Advertise on podcast: The Jason de Sousa Show

Japan is now Australia's second-largest source of foreign direct investment, four record years running: Ian Williams - Senior Adviser, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer That is the AJBCC's number, not mine. So I sat down with Vice-President Ian Williams, one of the only people to have played test rugby for both Australia and Japan, and asked him to walk me through it. Welcome to a new episode of The Jason de Sousa Show.  We got into: → Why the real question on Japanese investment isn't whether it's a structural shift, it's whether Japan is now buying the assets instead of buying the product. → Why Japanese housebuilders think they can make money building Australian homes when Australian housebuilders keep going broke. → What an $18-20 billion frigate deal and a 20% gas reservation policy are actually doing to a relationship built on energy and defence, not just trade. Ian has lived in a Kobe Steel dormitory, speaks the language, and sits at the centre of the Australia-Japan commercial relationship as few Australians do. Few people have a better read on where Japanese capital is really headed and why.  Last question I asked him: what is the single number that tells us in three years whether this relationship deepened, or just got talked about? His answer is in the episode. I am curious what yours would be. Listen and subscribe at: Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf Youtube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected]

That is the Property Council's number, not mine. So I sat down with its Chief Executive, Mike Zorbas, and asked him to walk me through the 40 cents. New episode of The Jason de Sousa Show. We got into: → Why we are arguing about the wrong thing on migration in our national conversation. → Why the Commonwealth Labor Government's tax increases on housing, trusts, capital gains and business are not delivering the benefits the government has claimed would come → What real estate investors are actually doing in an increasingly volatile market, as opposed to what they say at conferences. Mike is one of the most experienced and respected voices in the real estate and broader property market - and someone who I have been fortunate to have worked with and shared a friendship with over a long time. Few people have a better read on what the industry is feeling and how it is acting. Last question I asked him: if the Treasurer gave you one phone call and one change, what would you ask for? His answer is in the episode. I am curious what yours would be. Like, subscribe, and share your thoughts on the future of our cities. Listen and subscribe at: Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk  Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf  Youtube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected] #AustralianProperty #HousingAffordability #CommercialRealEstate #UrbanPlanning #Podcast

Ivan Harbour, Senior Design Director at RSHP, joins Jason de Sousa to talk city-making, from working alongside Lord Richard Rogers on the Lloyd's Building to master planning Sydney's Barangaroo. They cover why great masterplanning starts at the city scale, the biggest mistakes governments and developers make, and why public space should be civic infrastructure, not leftover land. Ivan reflects on Barangaroo's legacy, working with government on major projects, how office design has shifted since COVID, what investors want from architects now, and whether ESG is truly built into design briefs. They close on AI, where it helps, where it falls short, and what's at risk for the next generation of architects. A must-watch for anyone in property, design, or architecture. 🏙️ Topics: Richard Rogers' legacy & RSHP rebrand | Barangaroo & masterplanning | Public space as infrastructure | Government partnerships | Post-COVID office design | Investor expectations | ESG in practice | AI in architecture | Australia's global standing 👍 Like, subscribe, and share your thoughts on the future of our cities. Listen and subscribe at: Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf Youtube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected] #Architecture #UrbanDesign #Barangaroo #RSHP #Masterplanning #Sydney #PropertyDevelopment #AIinArchitecture

In this episode of The Jason De Sousa Show, we sit down with Sameer Chopra, Head of Research at CBRE, to stress-test the future of Australian real estate. We dive into the "Two-Speed Market" where Perth and Brisbane are surging ahead of the majors, and we ask the tough question: can the market sustain a forecast 30% rise in rents and values by 2030, or is it on a collision course with an affordability ceiling? We also explore the "Global Intelligence Crisis"—a viral hypothetical from Citrini Research. Could AI structurally impair the white-collar incomes that underpin the mortgage market? Or will robotics be the silver bullet that finally breaks the construction cost bottleneck?

The narrative around our cities is changing faster than the concrete can dry. We've heard that the office is dead, that AI will replace architects, and that the 15-minute city is the only way forward. But what does the actual data say? In this episode, we sit down with Steve, a global strategist who monitors behavioural and project data across three continents. We bridge the gap between New York's high-stakes economy and Australia's ambitious planning reforms to see where the property world is headed next. Listen and subscribe at: Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf Youtube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected]

The Jason de Sousa Show | Year in Review: When the Host Becomes the Guest In this special end of year episode, the roles are reversed. Lily Tran, founder of AiYA Marketing and producer of The Jason de Sousa Show, steps into the interviewer's chair as Jason de Sousa becomes the guest on his own show. Together, they reflect on a year of wide ranging conversations. From housing and cities, geopolitics and diplomacy, to health, social change, business, and leadership. Jason shares the moments that stayed with him most, the guests who challenged his thinking, and the themes that kept resurfacing across seemingly different discussions. They also lift the curtain on the show itself: what it takes to produce long form conversations in a fast-moving world, what resonated most with audiences, and what surprised them along the way. Looking ahead, Jason outlines the ideas, questions, and voices he's most interested in exploring next year and teases some of the conversations already in the pipeline. This episode is both a reflection and a reset: a pause to take stock, and a look forward to what's coming next. Listen and subscribe at: Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf Youtube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Jason de Sousa Show, Arminé Nalbandian, CEO of the Centre for Social Impact, tackles the question: Is today's economy failing young people? The Reality: Housing was 3x income in the 1950s. Today it's 13-14x. Education costs are soaring while job expectations aren't matching degrees. Fertility rates have hit all-time lows. We Cover: Why Arminé chose Australia and her path from NSW Government to CSI The pressing challenges CSI is researching What the "Social Economy" actually means Where business fits in creating social impact Growth in the for-purpose sector Three priorities for meaningful change About Arminé: CEO of Centre for Social Impact, former senior leader in NSW Government, driving research and advocacy for systemic social change. Listen and subscribe at: Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf Youtube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected]

In this episode, Jason de Sousa speaks with Arto Haapea, Finland's Ambassador to Australia and the Pacific, about the evolving role of small, resilient nations in an uncertain global landscape. From its population of just over five million, Finland has built a reputation for stability, innovation, and principled diplomacy. Arto discusses Finland's economic strengths, its people's quiet determination, and how a strong sense of civic trust has shaped its modern success. With a long land border shared with Russia, Finland's recent entry into NATO marks a significant moment in European security. Arto offers his perspective on the shifting dynamics between Russia, Ukraine, and the West — and how Finland sees its role as both mediator and defender of democratic values. The conversation also explores the broader challenges facing Europe: rising debt, political uncertainty, and a changing relationship with the United States. How does Finland maintain its voice within the European Union during such a volatile period? Turning closer to home, Jason and Arto unpack the growing relationship between Finland and Australia — from investment in infrastructure and renewable energy to collaboration in technology and innovation. Arto reflects on his travels across the country, his participation in the Sh*tbox Rally, and the goals he hopes to achieve during his tenure. This is a discussion about resilience, diplomacy, and the quiet power of nations that lead by example. Listen and subscribe at: Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf Youtube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected]

Inside the Mind of a GP | Dr. Shiva Rayar on Sexual Health, Covid & Society's Health. In this episode of The Jason de Sousa Show, Jason speaks with his GP, Dr. Shiva Rayar, about medicine, sexual health, Covid, and the health challenges shaping our society. We cover: Why Dr. Rayar chose general practice and his work in regional, refugee, Indigenous, and sexual health. Breaking the taboo around sexual health, the rise of STIs, and how online dating and "hook-up culture" are changing behaviours. Lessons from Covid and what needs to change for the next pandemic. The growing health impacts of obesity, screens, and preventable conditions like diabetes. How we can reduce pressure on Australia's healthcare system through prevention and common sense. Dr. Rayar also shares how social media and influencers are shaping young people's approach to sex, relationships, and wellbeing. Listen and subscribe at Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf Youtube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected]

Are Our Cities Broken? | Eamon Waterford on Housing, Councils & the Future of Sydney Jason de Sousa sits down with urban policy leader Eamon Waterford to unpack Australia's housing crisis. Are planning rules, councils, and bureaucracy stalling progress? Why aren't we building enough – and are new policies like TOD and LMR actually working? We cover: -Why apartment and BTR projects aren't stacking up -Whether councils are the problem or part of the fix -The future of CBDs with work-from-home -Office-to-residential conversions -Is it supply, migration, or something deeper? Plus, Eamon shares 3 big ideas to make Sydney thrive. #HousingCrisis #JasonDeSousaShow #EamonWaterford #Cities #UrbanPolicy #WorkFromHome #SydneyPlanning #NSWHousing

In this episode of The Jason de Sousa Show, Jason sits down with Mark Woodland, Founder and CEO of Kismet Health Care, to talk about building a smarter, more proactive healthcare system in Australia. From the rising costs in the care economy to the role of AI in health tech, they explore what it takes to challenge the status quo. Mark shares why he started Kismet, how software can help ease pressure on the healthcare system, and why he believes we need to shift from reactive care to prevention. They also discuss the realities of launching a startup in Australia—access to capital, the tax system, and whether our culture truly supports innovation. The conversation moves beyond business into the big picture: Australia's falling birth rate, growing public sector reliance, and what it all means for our future economy. Are we doing enough to support entrepreneurs? And what needs to change to keep Australia competitive? Tune in for a wide-ranging conversation on healthcare, startups, and the future of Australia's growth. Listen and subscribe at Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf Youtube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected]

In this episode of The Jason de Sousa Show, Jason is joined by Smita Sharma, independent journalist and Visiting Faculty- Kautilya School of Public Policy, to explore the rising tensions in Kashmir and the Indian government's response through Operation Sindoor. Together, they unpack: The latest terrorist attack and the battle over media narratives The long-standing India-Pakistan conflict over Kashmir India's stance on terrorism and its focus on economic development The crisis in Pakistan—from political turmoil to economic instability India's growing status as a global power under PM Modi Regional instability in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh The role of opposition figures like Shashi Tharoor in India's political landscape A must-listen for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of South Asia's complex geopolitics and India's evolving global role. 🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth conversations and insights. 🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms. #JasonDeSousaShow #SmitaSharma #IndiaPakistan #Kashmir #OperationSindoor #Geopolitics #SouthAsia #IndianPolitics

What Is the Australian Way? In this thought-provoking episode of The Jason de Sousa Show, we're joined by Andrew Low, author of "We Should Be So Lucky", to challenge outdated notions of Australia as "China's quarry and Japan's beach" – and to explore what it really means to be Australian today. From the Voice referendum to the decline in productivity, education standards, and energy policy – this wide-ranging conversation tackles the key questions shaping our national future: 🔹 What does modern Australian identity and citizenship look like? 🔹 Is our wealth and prosperity at risk due to rising taxation, overregulation, and bloated public sector growth? 🔹 Why is productivity falling and what's happening to our education system? 🔹 Are we getting energy policy disastrously wrong by ignoring nuclear while chasing 100% renewables? 🔹 How do we find our rightful place in an increasingly uncertain world? We dive into the "Somewheres vs Anywheres" debate, question whether our national story is still on track, and ask if it's time for a bold rethink in how we educate, power, and position ourselves globally. 📘 The Book: "We Should Be So Lucky: Why the Australian Way Works" – Available now in bookstores. 👤 Guest: Andrew Low – Investor, commentator, and author 🎙️ Host: Jason de Sousa Don't forget to like, subscribe, and comment your thoughts on how we redefine the Australian way forward. #TheJasonDeSousaShow #AndrewLow #AustralianIdentity #AustralianPolitics #Productivity #EnergyPolicy #EducationReform #WeShouldBeSoLucky

From Kowloon Junior School to journalism, public affairs, and trade relations—Eamonn shares his journey and insights on Australia's place in Asia. Is Australia part of Asia? A debate that never seems to end. Free trade or fading concept? With global shifts in tariffs and trade wars, where does Australia stand? The pathway for domestic growth—can we finally move beyond raw exports? Indonesia & China—the opportunities, the roadblocks, and what's next for Australian business. Elections & politics—what's shaping the debate in Australia?  Join us as we dive deep into these crucial (and sometimes controversial) conversations.

In this episode of The Jason de Sousa Show, Jason sits down with Alice Drew of Lendlease to explore the evolving landscape of work. From falling birth rates and the struggle of balancing careers with parenthood to the lasting impact of office mandates post-pandemic, they discuss how workplaces must adapt. Are offices missing an opportunity by not offering childcare? How can organisations support longer careers as we now work well into our 70s? Alice shares insights on the future of offices, leadership, and career development in an age where AI and megatrends are reshaping how we work. Tune in for a conversation on building workplaces that work—for everyone. Listen and subscribe at Spotify here: https://lnkd.in/fJq96sk Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts here: https://lnkd.in/fRBYnZf You Tube: https://lnkd.in/g8rFxGf E-mail us at [email protected]