The Leighton Smith Podcast Podcast By Newstalk ZB cover art

The Leighton Smith Podcast

The Leighton Smith Podcast

By: Newstalk ZB
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After 33 years behind the Newstalk ZB microphone, Leighton can’t give it up completely. There were so many requests to continue his opinionated commentary that the prospect of podcasting was born.

So, without restriction, Leighton continues to serve up on everything you want to hear about and some things you don’t. Stand by to be enlightened, educated and enraged!2026 Newstalk ZB
Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Leighton Smith Podcast #320 - March 18th 2026 - Patrick Basham
    Mar 18 2026

    In the 13 years since I first interviewed Patrick Basham, Director of the Democracy Institute in Washington DC, he has shown himself to be an outstanding analyst and commentator.

    He is erudite on many fronts.

    His opinions on the war with Iran may not please you.

    But whether you’re a Trump supporter or a critic, his rationale is provocative. Don’t miss it.

    And we finish up in The Mailroom with your correspondence and Mrs Producer.

    File your comments and complaints at Leighton@newstalkzb.co.nz OR Carolyn@newstalkzb.co.nz

    Haven't listened to a podcast before? Check out our simple how-to guide.

    Listen here on iHeartRadio

    Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes:
    To subscribe via iTunes click here

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 43 mins
  • Leighton Smith Podcast #319 - March 11th 2026 - Robert MacCulloch
    Mar 11 2026

    The recent announcement by the Reserve Bank focused on the availability of cash and ATM’s, and commercial bank branches.

    The Reserve Bank is currently seeking feedback on these possible changes from the public.

    Professor Robert MacCulloch, (who once worked at the Reserve Bank), is forthright in his commentary.

    His thoughts on cash, CBDC’s, and privacy versus government control are invaluable.

    As are your thoughts in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

    File your comments and complaints at Leighton@newstalkzb.co.nz OR Carolyn@newstalkzb.co.nz

    Haven't listened to a podcast before? Check out our simple how-to guide.

    Listen here on iHeartRadio

    Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes:
    To subscribe via iTunes click here

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Leighton Smith Podcast #318 - March 4th 2026 - George Friedman
    Mar 4 2026

    Media around the world has been engrossed with reporting, speculating, and arguing the case over the war with Iran.

    While it may have been ‘out of the blue’ for many, the conflict came as no surprise to those following the developments in the Middle East.

    George Friedman, Chairman and Founder of Geopolitical Futures, exploits knowledge he’s accumulated over decades, providing his opinion on why US President Donald Trump made the decision to attack Iran.

    He provides the answers others can’t.

    And as always, we visit the mailroom with Mrs Producer.

    File your comments and complaints at Leighton@newstalkzb.co.nz OR Carolyn@newstalkzb.co.nz

    Haven't listened to a podcast before? Check out our simple how-to guide.

    Listen here on iHeartRadio

    Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes:
    To subscribe via iTunes click here

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 15 mins
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