The Briefing
A daily news podcast, The Briefing gives you the latest headlines, discussion and explainer interviews to keep you informed and entertained. Bringing you the news you need to know at 6am and 4pm Monday to Friday, and profile features across the weekend, The Briefing is Australia's go-to news podcast for your commute, coffee or exercise. Hosted by journalists Sacha Barbour Gatt, Chris Spyrou, Natarsha Belling, Helen Smith and Antoinette Lattouf.
S6 E167 · Thu, April 17, 2025
'First time in living memory': Why the great Australian dream isn't over
Is the great Australian dream of owning a home over? In this special election edition of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Federal Housing Minister Clare O’Neil to unpack Labor’s record on housing, missed targets, and what the government plans to do next to solve a housing and rental crisis that’s been decades in the making. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E166 · Wed, April 16, 2025
Climate divides leaders' debate + Why you could be detained in US
Thursday Headlines: Spicy second leaders' debate between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition leader Peter Dutton, Australians trust in the US lowest in 20 years, Swedish teenager in Australia charged with contract killings, tropical Cyclone off WA expected to make landfall over the weekend and lab grown chicken nuggets breakthrough! Deep Dive: The rate of Australians travelling to the US has dropped to its lowest level since the pandemic, with Donald Trump’s return to the White House sparking a wave of concern among international visitors. Countries like China, Germany, Portugal and the UK have issued warnings for citizens heading to the country —so why hasn’t and should Australia do the same? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith speaks with Griffith University’s Dr Lee Morgenbesser, who recently cancelled his own trip, about the risks, the politics, and what it means for Australia. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E165 · Wed, April 16, 2025
PM's security breach + Is Putin's military on our doorstep?
Afternoon Headlines: PM says he won’t be deterred from making public appearances after another security breach, police search underway following the alleged sexual assault of an 83-year-old woman and a British tennis player has apologised after calling our her opponent for bad body odour. Deep Dive: National security is back in the spotlight, with claims that Russia tried to base military aircraft in Indonesia. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by foreign affairs expert Dr Keith Suter to unpack what’s really going on, how it affects us in Australia and how China’s growing influence is reshaping power in our region. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E164 · Tue, April 15, 2025
Race for deadly disease vax + Mediscare & Temu Trump: Spot political spin
Wednesday Headlines: Half of all investment properties sold within two years, Australian lab racing to make a vaccine to prevent deadly Disease X, Australian Defence Minister confirms no Russian base in Indonesia, more AI bots using the internet than humans for the first time, swapping out red meat and fruit toast could cut household emissions and Brisbane Greens MP joins OnlyFans to ‘make people pay attention’ to HIV prevention drug policy. Deep Dive: Can you spot political spin? From Mediscare to Temu Trump, spin is used by all sides of politics. It's a technique used throughout election campaigns and it’s ramping up as we head to the polls, but does it work or just led to more mistrust in politicians? In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by Professor of Communications and journalist Caroline Fisher to identify how it’s been used in the upcoming Federal election. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E163 · Tue, April 15, 2025
Greens cancel ANZAC day rave + Was Katy Perry’s space trip a PR stunt?
Afternoon Headlines: Greens cancel ANZAC Day rave, grandmother shot dead in drive-by shooting and why Australians aren’t travelling to the US. Deep Dive : It’s being called a giant leap forward for space travel - an all-female crew has just completed a Blue Origin mission. With a mix of celebrities, scientists, and pioneers on board, including Katy Perry and journalist Gayle King ... was it all a PR stunt for its billionaire boss Jeff Bezos? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with Australian physicist and former NASA engineer Dr Chris Boshuizen—who blasted into space on a Blue Origin flight himself —about what this means for the future of space exploration. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E162 · Mon, April 14, 2025
Over half a million Aus homes ‘under threat’ + How to vote to save cash
Tuesday Headlines: Bold claims made on Sky News ‘Mavericks’ debate with One Nation’s Pauline Hanson and KAP’s Bob Katter, Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor debate on housing, 1 in 23 Australian properties under threat due to climate change, All-female space crew mission with Katy Perry successful and Australian gambler “The Joker” at the centre of $151 million US lottery scandal. Deep Dive: With early voting starting in less than a week, both leaders are making ‘game-changer’ cash-saving promises ahead of the 2025 ‘cost-of-living election’. Housing, health, and energy are front and centre, but how much will these policies actually help slash our everyday costs, and are they lasting solutions or just short-term sugar hits? In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks to money saving expert Joel Gibson on who can deliver the most hip pocket relief to Aussies, plus his own cost of living relief tips. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E161 · Mon, April 14, 2025
Adam Bandt on leading with Labor, free uni and taxing billionaires
Free uni and TAFE for all Australians—that’s the headline promise from Greens Leader Adam Bandt, as the party reveals some of its major policies ahead of the Federal Election today. With the latest Newspoll pointing to a Labor minority government, the Greens could soon be in a powerful negotiating position. In this special election edition of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with Adam Bandt about wiping student debt, fixing the housing crisis, and how the party plans to pay for it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E160 · Sun, April 13, 2025
Leaders make huge housing pitch + My ADHD isn’t ‘trendy’
Monday Headline: Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton ‘officially’ launched their election campaigns, one year since the Bondi Junction stabbings with inquest on the way, Harvey Weinstein to stand trial this week in redo of #MeToo case, Australian academics refuse to attend US conferences for fear of being detained and Gout Gout breaks 200m record officially faster than Usain Bolt at same age. Deep Dive: There's an ongoing debate around ADHD in Australia - whether it’s over or underdiagnosed. It come after the country experienced a surge in cases in recent years, fuelled by adult women who weren't previously thought to be able to have ADHD now levelling the diagnosis field. But last week one expert came out to claim the rise in diagnoses is, in part, due to ADHD now becoming "trendy”, angering advocates and people living with the disorder who say it’s damaging, dismissive and fuelling societal stigma. In this episode of The Briefing Tara Cassidy is joined by President Professor Dave Coghill from Australasian ADHD Professionals Association to discuss the ongoing controversy. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E159 · Fri, April 11, 2025
Jameela Jamil: my eating disorder, white man energy & The Good Place
Jameela Jamil is a fierce critic of power, tackling the erosion of women’s rights to the rise of far-right ideologies. The British actor, writer and activist, best known for her break out role in The Good Place , is unapologetically honest and uses her platform to publicly say what many won’t. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Jameela explains why she approaches every opportunity with the confidence of a ‘white man’ and how wellness culture can lead us astray. Find tickets to Jameela's live tour here or at fane.com.au Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Love on the Spectrum Season 3 on Netflix TO WATCH: Annie the Musical Australia touring nationally TO DO: Peaches Pilates online app or in person TO TRY: Ant’s food waste hack or try the Saveful app If you need help or support for an eating disorder or body image issue, please call the Butterfly National Helpline on 1800 ED HOPE (1800 334 673) or visit www.butterfly.org.au to chat online or email. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E158 · Fri, April 11, 2025
Major IVF mistake + Fatal chopper crash
Afternoon Headlines: Peter Dutton calls politics a ‘brutal business’ after alleged terror attack, six dead after helicopter broke up mid-flight over New York and Gout Gout breaks ten second barrier for the 100m sprint. Deep Dive: An IVF mix-up caused by human error has seen a Brisbane woman implanted with the wrong embryo and give birth to a stranger's baby. The serious medical bungle could prompt a legal battle over the child's parentage, with many asking how could this happen and has it occurred before? In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Ameila Oberhardt, host of Secrets we keep: By Any Means that investigates the wild west of the fertility industry and why there are now growing calls for urgent action. Secrets we keep: By Any Means is available on The LiSNTR app on Monday 14th April. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E157 · Thu, April 10, 2025
Dutton target of alleged terror plot + Why Netflix is so not chill
Friday Headlines: Peter Dutton allegedly target of a schoolboy terror plot, RBA pours cold water on significant rate cuts, Brisbane woman gives birth to stranger’s baby in IVF bungle, magic mushrooms treatment for eating disorders to be trialled in Melbourne in ‘world-first’, the BOM forecasts one of our warmest winter's on record, and US parents sue school over child’s spelling bee loss. Deep Dive: It’s been just 10 years since Netflix launched in Australia—but in that time, it’s reshaped the way we watch TV, launched global conversations, and become a powerful player in what content gets seen and shared. But how does a show make it onto the platform—and into the global Top 10? And as streaming competition heats up with the launch of MAX by Warner Bros Discovery, will Netflix stay on top? In this episode of The Briefing , Helen Smith speaks with Dr Alexa Scarlata, lecturer in digital communication at RMIT, to unpack the state of streaming in Australia. Further listening from the headlines: How MDMA freed Kate from PTSD is available on LiSTNR Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E156 · Thu, April 10, 2025
Is Trump playing us all? + Rape game banned
Afternoon Headlines: Key Democrats alleging possible insider trading after Donald Trump’s tariff pause and Virgin Australia reportedly overcharged customers $3.3 million. Deep Dive: The violent video game No Mercy which glorifies rape and violence has just been banned in Australia. Its contents are horrific and has sparked another important conversation about what our young people are being exposed to online. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by cybersecurity expect Susan McLean to discuss the urgent need for action and why those responsible aren’t being held to account. If you or someone you know needs help, you can phone Lifeline 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E155 · Wed, April 09, 2025
Major tariff backflip + The new Big Brother watching you
Thursday Headlines: Trump walks back tariffs, Jim Chalmers and Angus Taylor's first debate, Australia removes video game featuring rape and Mr G is back. Deep Dive: You may be identifiable to police through a DNA database without even realising it. Turbocharged by family tree, medical, paternity and crime testing, DNA databases are expanding rapidly. Secrets We Keep: Should I Spit? , a new podcast investigation into the DNA industry, explores the minefield of risks to our presumption of innocence and privacy. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Melbourne-based criminal defense lawyer Felix Ralph, who says we should be concerned that we're marching towards total genetic surveillance. Further listening from the headlines: China vows to retaliate after Trump's 'bully' tariffs is available on LiSTNR or wherever you get your podcasts. The full season of Secrets We Keep: Should I Spit? is available on LiSTNR Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E154 · Wed, April 09, 2025
Trump’s new attack on tariffs + Stopping our soaring power bills
Afternoon Headlines: Donald Trump’s 'Liberation Day' Tariffs have come into effect, Virginia Giuffre failed to appear in a Perth Court and an Australian teenager breaks 57-year-old sprinting record. Deep Dive: We’ve been promised plenty from our politicians, but how do we really stop our soaring power bills and create a safe and reliable energy future? In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Chris O’Keefe from the Clean Energy Council who believes renewables are the answer and that it’s a tough reality our nation needs to face. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E153 · Tue, April 08, 2025
Albo wins first debate + The hacker exposing all our vulnerabilities
Wednesday Headlines: Anthony Albanese wins first leaders debate, Jim Chalmers having high-level finance talks, Australia's median home value has increased, META is expanding its teen account protections, Sea World Helicopter crash findings to be delivered today, and a wolf that’s been extinct for over 13-thousand years has been brought back to life ... or has it?! Deep Dive: Australia’s preparing for a new kind of war, one that doesn’t involve soldiers and weapons, but cyber criminals who could take whole cities offline with just the press of a button. One former hacker turned future crime researcher says he’s paid to prepare the country against modern warfare - a kind of war he says even our own military couldn’t protect us from. In today’s episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by futurist Skeeve Stevens to find out all the ways we are being targeted, who our biggest threats are and what we’re doing about it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E152 · Tue, April 08, 2025
US vs China trade war escalates + Housing crisis solution
Afternoon Headlines: Prime Minister's not ruling out a recession as ongoing tariff war between the US and China continues Deep Dive: As uncertainty continues to destabilize our world, leading experts say now is the time for brave, new politicians to revolutionize the way we run Australia. Rather than offering cash for grabs in this Federal election, there are growing calls for our leaders to offer long term solutions to our housing and affordability crises. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling, is joined by businessman and founder of Amplify Paul Bassat who says people power is the solution. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E151 · Mon, April 07, 2025
New social media rules for politicians + Will Elon unplug your EV dream?
Tuesday Headlines: New mental health promises, Bondi Junction stabbing inquest, NSW public hospital doctors walk off jobs, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meeting with President Trump, Matildas win and Minecraft becomes the most watched video game movie in first few days. Deep Dive: Electric vehicles promise a cleaner, cheaper future—but what happens when the world’s biggest EV brand is in crisis. Tesla’s global sales are falling, competition is heating up, and CEO Elon Musk is facing growing backlash. So could this shake-up stall Australia’s EV transition—or pave the way for new players and more affordable options? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Sarah Aubrey from Electrify This to unpack what Tesla’s troubles mean for the future of electric cars in Australia. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E150 · Mon, April 07, 2025
Treasurer flags interest rate cuts + Stock market bloodbath
Afternoon Headlines: Multiple rate cuts expected as ASX tumbles Deep Dive: The federal Treasurer says a number of interest rate cuts could be on the way this year as the fallout continues from Donald Trump’s tariffs. Global markets have seen a bloodbath on open this morning, with more than $160 billion wiped off the ASX In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling chats with Economist Nicki Hutley on the winners and losers from this financial rollercoaster. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E149 · Sun, April 06, 2025
What journalists think of influencers in politics (Part 2)
In Part Two of The Briefing’s special on influencers in politics, we turn the spotlight on the media itself. As backlash grows over content creators stepping into the Australian political space, some say it’s less about bias—and more about blurred standards. Tara Cassidy is joined by Jenna Clarke, Associate Editor at The Australian , who argues there’s space for new voices in political coverage—but legacy media, regulation, and accountability still matter. So how do we strike the right balance in 2025? Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E148 · Sun, April 06, 2025
LNP ditches WFH policy + Influencers vs journalists in politics (Part 1)
Monday Headlines: Peter Dutton backflips on WFH promise, Liberal MP stood down after comments about women in combat, Jordanian man on Sydney-bound flight charged after allegedly trying to open plane door, US #Handsoff protest, Matildas take on South Korea again tonight and Bob Katter the star of a new beer. Deep Dive: As we head into an election, some content creators are joining the campaign trail, partnering with politicians to engage young voters. But the lines between opinion, promotion, and political advertising are blurring. In part one of The Briefing’s two-part special, Tara Cassidy speaks with digital creator Hannah Ferguson, CEO of Cheek Media, who recently interviewed the PM, about the rise of online political voices in Australia and why she thinks traditional media needs to catch up. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E147 · Fri, April 04, 2025
Elouise Eftos is 'Australia’s first attractive comedian'
Elouise Sofia Eftos, is 'Australia’s first attractive comedian' , according to her Instagram bio. She’s taking on the comedy world with her bold, beautiful and beguiling humour, whilst refusing to be self-deprecating for a laugh. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Elouise dives into the mystic world of the evil eye, where envy manifests as a curse, and reveals how she channels her inner goddess. Find tickets to her next show here! Weekend list with Helen Smith TO EAT: Women’s Weekly birthday cake TO DO: Post a good review of something! TO READ: Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn TO EAT: Harvest Snaps baked pea crisps Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E146 · Fri, April 04, 2025
Cyber-attack on superfunds + What happens next on White Lotus
Afternoon Headlines: Australians superfunds stolen in cyber attack and notorious gangland figure Tony Mokbel free after 18 years Deep Dive: Season 3 of The White Lotus has taken the world by storm, including here in Australia, with everyone asking who gets murdered and why? The stars of the series were in Australia earlier this week, ahead of the much-anticipated finale dropping on Monday In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by entertainment reporter Richard Reid who reveals his theories on what happens next and explains why Season 4 could be filmed right here in Australia. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E145 · Thu, April 03, 2025
Albo's Joe Biden moment + Dutton's radical plan to save billions
Friday Headlines: Albo goes for a tumble, Abbie Chatfield interviews cleared by AEC, Victorian man charged for allegedly threatening to kill politician, gay conversion therapy ban now in effect in NSW, and the Matildas take on South Korea in a friendly tonight! Deep Dive: Public service jobs are sometimes viewed as more stable, well-paid, and offering better conditions than many private-sector roles. But are there too many of them? Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has pledged to slash 41,000 public service jobs, claiming it will save billions and redirect funds to frontline services. His plan has sparked fierce debate—are these roles essential, or is the bureaucracy bloated? In this episode of The Briefing , Chris Spyrou speaks with News Corp Australia's National Political Editor, Clare Armstrong, who is currently on the campaign trail with Dutton, to unpack the political and real-world impact of these proposed cuts. Further listening from the headlines: Has Australia had its football moment? Available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E144 · Thu, April 03, 2025
China vows to retaliate after Trump's ‘bully’ tariffs
Afternoon Headlines: Trump's 'Liberation Day' announces 10% tariffs on all countries Deep Dive: The fallout continues from Donald Trump’s new tariffs, with China threatening to retaliate against the “bullying” move. The US President announced the widespread tariffs on a number of countries including Australia during his ‘Liberation day’ speech. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling speaks with UNSW Professor of Economics Richard Holden on what this new international trade war means for the Australian economy and our long-term security alliances with the most powerful countries in the world. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E143 · Wed, April 02, 2025
Albo’s post with podcaster investigated + We debate the 'war on woke'
Thursday Headlines: Prime Minister and Abbie Chatfield's social media post being investigated by the AEC, Trump will hand down sweeping "Liberation Day" tariffs today, prosecutors to appeal NSW taser cop's sentence, Victoria passes new anti-vilification laws, QLD police powers expanded, Myanmar’s military declares a ceasefire to ease earthquake relief, and the Sydney train door that just wouldn't shut. Deep Dive: Peter Dutton’s war on wokeism is front and centre this week, with the Coalition claiming it's brainwashing young Australians—and even making them dumber. But what does ‘woke’ actually mean, and why is it celebrated by some yet condemned by others? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Dr. Bella d'Abrera from the Institute of Public Affairs and linguist Dr. Karen Stollznow from Griffith University to unpack the word and find out if it’s dividing the nation. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E142 · Wed, April 02, 2025
Hollywood legend dies + mass evacuations from flooding
Afternoon Headlines: Thousands of residents across outback Queensland evacuated and Val Kilmer star of Top Gun and Batman dead at 65. Deep dive: Thousands of people have been evacuated and more than 100,000 livestock are dead, as the worst flooding in 50 years hits outback Queensland. The disaster has devastated farming communities and is expected to disrupt meat supplies across the country and force up prices. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by general president of AgForce Shane McCarthy and senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury to find out about the impact this breaking national disaster. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E141 · Tue, April 01, 2025
Mangione, Caddick, Mokbel updates + The 'bogeyman' influencing your vote
Wednesday Headlines: Labor to push for real wage increase, US prosecutors seek death penalty for Luigi Mangione, IVF for single women and same sex couples to be covered under Medicare, first probable Japanese Encephalitus Virus death in the QLD since an outbreak in 2022, and the majority of millennials and Gen X regret their career choice. Deep Dive: With a federal election on the horizon, how much of what we see and hear can we actually trust? AI-generated deepfakes and manipulated content are becoming harder to detect and while some of these tools are used for entertainment, others are being harnessed to influence public opinion. So, could AI actually sway voters at the ballot box come May 3? Or is it all a distraction? In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Professor Daniel Angus, Director of QUT’s Digital Media Research Centre, to unpack it all. Further listening from the headlines: A CEO was killed in the streets of New York. Should we be celebrating? is available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Lawyer X: Could a bunch of gangland criminals soon be free? is available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. The Wieambilla police massacre and criminal insanity is available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. The deadly virus back in Australia is available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lis
S6 E140 · Tue, April 01, 2025
Interest rates on hold + PM hits back over US Tariffs
Afternoon Headlines: RBA holds cash rate at 4.1%, PM hits back at Trump over new trade demands and Jeffery Epstein and Prince Andrew’s top accuser in hospital after bus crash says spokesperson. Deep Dive: The RBA has left the official cash rate on hold as the Board flags, they are concerned about growing international instability. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling chats with David Koch, from Compare the Market, to break down what this latest decision means and whether there are more interest rate cuts on the way. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E139 · Mon, March 31, 2025
Record house prices + How our gov let $7 billion go up in smoke
Headlines: Our house prices and rents are at record highs, Australian Border Force says its actively monitoring a Chinese warship, convicted killer Chris Dawson appeals conviction, hope for those working from home and Kamala Harris is coming to Australia! Deep Dive: The illegal tobacco industry is growing, and despite its links to violent firebombings and illegal sales, so is the number of people turning to it for cheaper smokes and vapes. Experts say the government’s high tobacco taxes are only fueling the issue, with more people pushed into searching for cheaper alternatives, and leaving a near $7 billion hole in the federal budget. In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by former Australian Federal Police officer Rohan Pike, who led one of the country’s illicit tobacco task forces. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E138 · Mon, March 31, 2025
Mother arrested after 3 children stabbed + superfund rorts
Afternoon headlines: Mother of attempted triple murder suicide arrested, Danielle Laidley battling rare brain tumour and cast of The White Lotus in Australia Deep dive: A damning report into some of our top super funds has found poor service and delayed payouts are now the norm. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Kirby Rappell, Executive Director of Super Rating to explain why you need to get on top of your super now and the top tips to get the best deal. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E137 · Sun, March 30, 2025
Residents cut off, man missing in floods + Aus footballers face ban in US
Monday Headlines: PM off to WA today, flooding could see communities cut off for weeks in NSW and QLD, search and rescue efforts continue in Myanmar and Thailand, Tonga tsunami threat cancelled, and more crimes to be added to Queensland’s ‘adult crime, adult time’ laws. Deep Dive: A class action has been launched in the US aimed at limiting how many Australians can play college football and NFL in the country. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Dr Adam Cohen, lecturer and coordinator of the Sport Business Department at UTS, to unpack it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E136 · Fri, March 28, 2025
Punter's Politics on billionaires, billboards and backroom deals
Konrad Michalski, better known as Punter's Politics, is on a mission to cut through the political spin and convince everyday Aussies (or punters) that politics actually matters. With a mass online following, Konrad has become the go-to voice for satirical takes on Australia’s top stories. Now, with the election looming large, his insights have never been more vital. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Konrad explores how he challenges gas oligarchs to tackling housing inequality through social media, and shares his best tips on how to vote smart and avoid election regret. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Adolescence on Netflix and our Adolescence episode TO LISTEN: Good or Bad Billion BBC Podcasts TO READ: @disappointingaffirmations on Instagram Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E135 · Fri, March 28, 2025
Poll shock on election campaign + Kings Charles hospitalised
Afternoon headlines: New poll shows Peter Dutton is now in the lead with voters, no jail time for ex-cop who tasered 95 year old in age care and two school students hit by an out of control car that was allegedly stolen. Deep dive: There’s renewed concern over the health of King Charles, after the Monarch was hospitalized with side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Royal expert Angela Mollard to explain what’s really going on with the Monarch’s health and what plans are in place if his condition continues to deteriorate. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E134 · Thu, March 27, 2025
We have an election date + The truth about 'Australian Made'
Friday Headlines: We have an election date, Peter Dutton’s budget reply, NSW court docs and Nine hit by data breach, search continues for missing Queensland police officer, US Yemen attack update and The Greens slam Albo for inviting Trump down under. Deep Dive: Anthony Albanese wants you to buy Aussie-made—but are your Tim Tams, Twisties, and Milo purchases really supporting Australian businesses? With some of our iconic brands owned by foreign companies, can the Prime Minister’s "Team Australia" campaign actually help shield us from Trump's tariffs and more importantly ... boost our economy? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by the CEO of the Consumer Policy Research Centre, Erin Turner, to break it all down. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E133 · Thu, March 27, 2025
PM's embarrassing election blunder
Deep dive: Speculation is rife the Federal election will be called tomorrow, after an embarrassing blunder. The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet posted on social media that the government was in caretaker mode, which was then quickly deleted. It comes just hours before Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is set to give his budget reply speech tonight, with some experts wondering if it was a genuine mistake or a clever strategic move to steal Mr Dutton’s thunder. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by 7 News Business Editor Amelia Brace to unpack the latest sensational twist ahead of what’s shaping up to be one of the closest elections in Australia’s history. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E132 · Wed, March 26, 2025
Dutton's plan for cheaper fuel + The deadly virus back in Australia
Thursday Headlines: Labor’s surprise tax cut passes the senate, groceries are the most expensive at Woolies, Salmon laws, NSW court data breach, and Bluey stars react to show’s censorship in the US. Deep Dive: A virus that’s killed two people in recent months, and infected nine more, is back circulating the country. It comes after a series of back-to-back wet weather events, like Cyclone Alfred and various floods, have seen mozzie numbers surge and help spread Japanese Encephalitis Virus. In 2021, an unprecedented outbreak of JEV led to the deaths of seven people, with experts now warning that a third of those who survive are left with long-term neurological issues. In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy sits down with an Aussie mum whose 4-month-old son contracted JEV and is now facing lifelong health issues, and a viral diseases expert on how to protect ourselves against the incurable virus. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E131 · Wed, March 26, 2025
What the Federal budget means for your interest rates
Afternoon headlines: The PM blasts the opposition over tax cuts, Jeanswest goes into administration and AirPods Pro 2 can now act as hearing aids. Deep dive: Cost of living relief or a cruel hoax? We break down what the federal budget really means for Australians and its effect on skyrocketing bills and interest rates. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Sally Tindall to find out if the government’s tax cuts go far enough and why many experts are saying the inflation crisis is far from over. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E130 · Tue, March 25, 2025
Budget breakdown: A cuppa's worth of tax cuts, free GPs & cheaper pints
Treasurer Jim Chalmers has handed down his fourth—and possibly final—Federal Budget. There are tax cuts, energy bill relief, and cheaper medicines on offer. The government's pitching it as a win for everyday Australians ... but is it really? And with back-to-back surpluses turning into a decade-long deficit, is this an election-friendly budget or a real plan for economic stability? In this special budget episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou and Tara Cassidy break down what you need to know and how it affects you. Further listening from the headlines: We're being promised free GP visits. What's the catch? is available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Can Australia afford free university? is available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. How MDMA freed Kate from PTSD is available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Panda Propaganda: Why China is sending us diplomacy bears is available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E129 · Tue, March 25, 2025
Top secret war plans sent to journalist by mistake
Afternoon Headlines: Trump and US Defence Secretary respond to leaked Yemen war plans and 2032 Olympic Games venue confirmed Deep Dive: Top secret US war plans have been leaked after a journalist was accidentally added to a group chat on encrypted messaging app Signal. President Donald Trump and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth both dismissed the story, even after National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes confirmed it ‘appears to be authentic’. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by tech expert Trevor Long to explain why it’s a massive wake-up call for all governments, even here in Australia. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E128 · Mon, March 24, 2025
Extreme weather warning + Inside Netflix's Adolescence
Tuesday Headlines: Budget will be in deficit + more potential energy relief on the horizon, sixth day of protests in Turkey, Queensland told to brace for more severe flooding while WA braces for heatwave and possible cyclone and the 2032 Olympic Game venue to be announced today. Deep Dive: Adolescence is the Netflix series exposing the dark reality of how online influencers are hijacking the minds of young boys, hitting 24.3 million views in its first four days of premiering. The series has sparked calls for new age limits on access to smartphones and even prompted conversations on introducing a Minister for Men. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Renee Chopping, a Trauma counsellor for survivors of sex trafficking and an advocate of child protection, who led a recent petition that successfully got Andrew Tate content removed from Spotify. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E127 · Mon, March 24, 2025
$1 billion for defence in budget + Women abandon major parties
Afternoon headlines: Teal MP Monique Ryan’s partner has apologised after stealing a Liberal campaign sign, Federal Government announces $1 billion in defence spending for budget and Tiger Woods confirms relationship with Donald’s Trump ex daughter in law Deep dive: The latest Newspoll survey reveals women are now abandoning both major parties at an alarming rate, as Labor’s female support base has dipped to 29% for the first time. While it’s perceived Mr Dutton has a problem with female voters, young men are also deserting Labor. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Samantha Maiden, the political editor for news.com.au to unpack the latest data, as Australia goes through one of the biggest political shake-ups in history. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E126 · Sun, March 23, 2025
Hundreds to be slashed from your bills + Why more men are sports betting
Monday Headlines: More bill relief announced as budget looms, Gaza death toll passes 50,000, Pope Francis makes first public appearance since hospitalisation, redemption for Oscar Piastri in Chinese Grand Prix and a new study shows humans are getting dumber. Deep Dive: Sports betting is surging among young men —should we be worried? New research shows the rates of sports betting among Aussie men aged 18-44 has skyrocketed by 65% since 2015, with spending also on the rise. Despite stricter regulations - gambling ads and online apps are fueling a growing industry that some see as a public health crisis—while others say it’s just a bit of fun. In this episode of The Briefing , Chris Spyrou sits down with three young men who regularly bet on sports to hear their take: Is sports betting really a problem? Would they support tougher restrictions? And could they stop if they had to? Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E125 · Fri, March 21, 2025
David Pocock: rugby star, activist or political saviour?
David Pocock, the former rugby star turned independent senator, embraces the label of “weirdo” for his belief that sports and politics should go hand in hand. The former rugby star isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo, famously refused to marry until same-sex couples had the same rights and being arrested for climate protests. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, David explains why rugby must lead on climate action, given its deep ties to Pacific Island nations with communities already bearing the brunt of climate change. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: The White Lotus season 3 on Binge TO EAT: Pistachio Papi Spread TO READ: Conspiracy? War on the waterfront on ABC Listen TO LISTEN: Discover weekly playlist on Spotify Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E124 · Fri, March 21, 2025
Why country music is sliding into your playlist
Afternoon headlines: Treasurer Jim Chalmer stands by ACCC inquiry, flights to Bali cancelled after volcano eruption and Donald Trump shutting down the Department of Education Deep dive: Country music is having a moment, embraced by Millennial and Gen Z listeners with demand for the genre doubling over the last five years on Spotify. Artists like Beyoncé, Post Malone and Chappel Roan are moving back to their country roots as country music continues to top the Billboard Top 100 chart. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by country music artists Tania Kernaghan and Jason Owen to unpack how the genre has taken over the global stage with its authenticity. Find tickets to Tania Kernaghan and Jason Owen's tour here Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E123 · Thu, March 20, 2025
Coles and Woolies 'shock' findings + Pets on flights
Friday Headlines: Coles and Woolies found among ‘most profitable’ supermarkets in world, US Tech giants call on Trump to target Australia, Socceroos inch closer to qualifying for next year’s World Cup, and the world’s happiest countries have been revealed. Deep Dive: Australians love their dogs. Almost half of all homes have a pet pooch according to the RSPCA’s latest figures. Dog owners are also increasingly treating their pups as part of the family, whether that’s letting them sleep in the bed, throwing birthday parties for them and even taking them on holidays to Europe. And as more young couples are delaying having children to raise a dog instead, it really feels like we’re reaching a new stage in the human-dog relationship. So, what does all of this say about us, not only as owners, but as a society? Legendary Australian veterinarian Dr Katrina Warren (and her dog, Chilli) join Sacha Barbour Gatt on today’s episode of The Briefing to ask: has the line blurred too much? Further listening from the headlines: 'Top 10 hacks to cut your supermarket bill' is out now on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E122 · Thu, March 20, 2025
Cash splash vs frugal living: our two-tier economy
Afternoon headlines: Peter Dutton’s speech interrupted by protesters, employment figures show despite thousands losing work unemployment rate holds steady and Australia’s rich list has been released Deep dive: A two-tier economy is emerging in Australia, with some splashing cash around while others struggle to pay their mortgage and bills. With cost of living set to be the number one issue as we approach our federal election, a growing number of people have given up on the Aussie dream of owning a home – and are now using their disposable income to enjoy life. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Scott Phillips, The Motley Fool's Chief Investment Officer, to explain why we need a complete overhaul of managing interest rates, inflation and the property market. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E121 · Wed, March 19, 2025
Can we blame our housing pain on immigration?
Thursday Headlines: Labor promises to cap prescription medications at $25, Putin accused of breaking promise to not strike Ukrainian energy targets, new search green lit for missing flight MH370 and a Jury convicts two men in golden toilet heist. Deep Dive: If you tune into Parliament, you’d think Australia is drowning in crises—health, crime, climate, and, most notably, housing and immigration. And lately, those last two have become deeply intertwined in political debate. Conservative voices are calling for immigration cuts, arguing that an influx of new arrivals is pushing Aussies out of the housing market. But is this really what’s driving the crisis, or is it just an easy scapegoat? In this episode of The Briefing , Chris Spyrou speaks with veteran finance journalist Alan Kohler to unpack the facts and find out whether cutting immigration is a viable solution. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E120 · Wed, March 19, 2025
Who shot JFK? Surprise Australian link revealed
Afternoon headlines: Astronauts touch down to Earth after nine months in space, ex-nurses charged over an alleged video threatening Israeli patients fight to throw out evidence and secret documents released on the assassination of JKF Deep dive: A bombshell Australian link has been found in previously classified documents related to former President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Details of phone calls about an assassination plot made to the US embassy in Canberra emerged in new papers unlocked today by the Trump administration. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr. Keith Suter, Foreign Affairs Expert, to discuss what the new evidence means and if we will ever find out who shot JFK. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E119 · Tue, March 18, 2025
Why we shouldn't torpedo AUKUS
Wednesday Headlines: Trump and Putin hold phone call about Ukraine-Russia ceasefire, More Israeli airstrikes in Gaza as death toll climbs, Treasurer promises substantial cost of living relief in the budget and NASA's stranded astronauts are finally on their way home. Deep Dive: AUKUS—the trilateral security pact between Australia, the UK, and the US—was sold as a game-changer for our national defence, promising a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines and cutting-edge military tech. But years on, with an eye-watering $386 billion price tag, no guarantee of receiving the subs on time (or at all), and a new US president prioritising “America First,” is the deal still worth it? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Nine’s Chief Political Editor, Charles Croucher, to break down where AUKUS stands, what’s at stake, and whether Australia should rethink its biggest-ever defence investment. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E118 · Tue, March 18, 2025
The explosive new twist involving the CFMEU
Afternoon Headlines: Israel launches new airstrikes across Gaza, inquest into Lilie James’ murder finds it was a planned attack and scientists discover new species of fish more than 15 million years old. Deep Dive: Calls for a royal commission into the CFMEU are mounting after more damming allegations of violence and corruption. The Victorian government has met with the Police Commissioner to bolster investigations after accusations the state government failed to stop the criminal behaviour. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Sharnelle Vella, co-host of ABC Melbourne Breakfast radio, to unpack the latest twist in this explosive story. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E117 · Mon, March 17, 2025
Top 10 hacks to cut your supermarket bill
Tuesday headlines: Anthony Albanese receives highest approval rating in almost 18 months, Trump and Putin to discuss an end to the war tomorrow, 48% of year 6 Aussies can’t swim 50 metres and the RBA unveils new $5 banknote. Deep dive: New analysis has revealed our grocery prices have surged by 30% over the last three years, with Coles, Woolworths and even Aldi hiking their costs. It’s unfortunately become an all too common problem for most of us, but do you know there are some easy ways to hack your next trip to the supermarket? In this episode of The Briefing, Finder’s Head of Research, Graham Cooke joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to break down the 10 best ways to save cash on your next trip through the checkout. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E116 · Mon, March 17, 2025
Australia's new health crisis: Do you have an STI?
Afternoon headlines: Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull slams AUKUS deal as 'dumb' and 'unfair', Treasurer Jim Chalmers addresses the financial fallout from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and body believed to be of 6-year-old girl found in bushlands Deep dive: STI cases are skyrocketing across all age demographics in Australia, with some rates doubling or tripling, and unprotected is sex a major contributing factor. Despite conversations around consent and safe sex starting to enter mainstream media, cases of genital herpes, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV are leading to increased rates of lifelong health problems, and in some cases, deadly cancers. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr. Ginni Mansberg, a leading GP, to find out why we aren’t taking sexually transmitted infections seriously. healthdirect helpline: 1800 022 222 For more information on STI's you can visit healthdirect Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E115 · Sun, March 16, 2025
Inside Clive Palmer's plan to win you over with Trump's handbook
Monday headlines: Chalmers reveals cost of Cyclone Alfred ahead of earliest budget ever, dozens dead in North-Macedonian nightclub fire, heartbreak for Oscar Piastri as Lando Norris claims Australian Grand Prix, and the SpaceX replacement crew docks with the International Space Station. Deep dive: After the 2022 election, many people thought Clive Palmer’s political party, and career, might be over. But after announcing a “new” party last month, Trumpet of Patriots, you might have noticed ads being blared during popular shows like Married at First Sight over the last week, telling us that Clive and his hopes of political domination, are back. Will the 2025 election deliver a different result for the billionaire? And how will his play into Trump-style politics perform in Australia? In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks to political scientist Dr Benjamin Moffitt to dive deeper into Palmer’s latest election bid and what it means for Australia. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E114 · Fri, March 14, 2025
Drive to Survive’s Guenther Steiner on his first "shit box" and leaving F1
Guenther Steiner isn’t just an F1 boss – he’s an American-Italian motorsport icon and a fan favourite on Netflix’s Drive to Survive. The former Team Principal of Haas is known for his signature wit, colourful language and unfiltered approach in the racing world. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Guenther explains how F1 is attracting a younger audience, life after leaving the sport and why it’s been 50 years since a woman last competed in Formula 1. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Surface on Apple TV TO LISTEN: Stalked on the BBC TO READ: Cactus Pear For My Beloved by Samah Sabawi TO DO: $8 Aldi flowers Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E13 · Fri, March 14, 2025
The Aussie female driver changing the face of motorsport
Afternoon headlines: Australia’s youngest convicted murderer set to be released, American Airlines Boeing 737 bursts into flames on tarmac and rare blood moon set to grace the skies tonight Deep dive: This weekend the world's best f1 drivers are on show for the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, but one Aussie female driver is changing the face of motorsport. Molly Taylor is Australia's best female motorsport export and is not only breaking records but also the glass ceiling. In this episode of The Briefing Molly explains to Natarsha Belling why she believes men and women should be competing on equal terms in the racing world and her secrets to defying the odds under enormous pressure. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E112 · Thu, March 13, 2025
'A mouthful of razor blades': What’s with all the shark attacks?
Headlines: Putin says he agrees 'in principle' to a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine, Kevin Rudd says he's 'thrown everything' at getting a tariff exemption and Albo slams the US influencer who snatched a baby wombat. Deep Dive: Australia has been rocked by a recent spate of shark bites this week, reminding us of the risks inherent in ocean swimming. So, with hot weather predicted around the country this weekend, what’s going on and what do we need to know before we head to the beach? In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Dr Leonardo Guida, shark campaign manager at the Australian Marine Conservation Society to unpack it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E111 · Thu, March 13, 2025
Meet the professor behind our world-first titanium heart surgery
Afternoon headlines: Former Australian cricketing great Stuart MacGill found guilty over facilitating a cocaine deal, power bills to increase again and an American influencer's visa under review after a disturbing online video Deep dive: Hear from the Australian professor who was part of the team behind a world first that is set to revolutionise how we treat heart failure and transplants. Professor Chris Hayward gives the inside story into how an Australian man became the first person in the world to be discharged from hospital with a high-tech titanium artificial heart. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Professor Hayward, a cardiologist at St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, to explain why this major breakthrough is being hailed around the world. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E110 · Wed, March 12, 2025
The ugly truth about your delicious bacon sandwich
Thursday Headlines: Greens unveil new plan to legalise weed, Trump tariff chaos continues, Indigenous incarceration rates have jumped 20% since 2019, and Leonardo DiCaprio criticises Australian government for mine expansions. Deep Dive: Australians consume around 17 kilograms of processed meat annually with the 4 billion dollar industry offering quick-fix meals and pushing high protein diets. Over 300 new fast-food stores opened across the country last year, making processed meat more accessible than ever, despite the World Health Organization classifying it as a group 1 carcinogen linked to bowel cancer back in 2015. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Lucie Morris-Mar, an investigative journalist and author of Processed: How the Processed Meat Industry is Killing Us with the Food We Love , who was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer at just 44. Further listening from the headlines: Malcolm Turnbull on why the US tariff deal is a huge wake-up call is available on Apple Podcast , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E109 · Wed, March 12, 2025
Malcolm Turnbull on why the US tariff deal is a huge wake up call
Afternoon headlines: Anthony Albanese responds to Trump's tariffs on Australia Deep dive: Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull issues a stark warning about our future alliance with the US after Trump’s move to enforce trade tariffs on our steel and aluminium. Mr Turnbull predicts we can no longer depend on the US for trade or security. His comments come after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese slammed the tariffs as ‘entirely unjustified’. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Mr Turnbull to discuss what this means for our future under Mr Trump’s ‘America First’. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E108 · Tue, March 11, 2025
The sporting codes earning millions from gambling, but paying no tax
Wednesday Headlines: Australia’s requests to be exempt from US tariffs has been rejected as ‘Trumpcession’ fears continue, Ukraine says its ready to accept a US-proposed immediate ceasefire, the Queensland Premier has declared the worst of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred is over, and a boulder sitting at QLD school for 20 years found to have over 60 dinosaur prints. Deep Dive: The AFL, NRL, and Cricket Australia generate billions in revenue—but they don’t pay income tax. The reason? They’re classified not-for-profits and thus exempt. But with CEOs earning millions, massive betting deals, and revenue from pokies and broadcast rights, does this tax exemption pass the pub test? Critics argue it’s time to rethink the model, especially when it comes to our two football codes. So, should Australia’s biggest sporting codes be taxed like other businesses? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou chats with CQU’s sports law expert Dr Matt Nichol to break it down. Further listening from the headlines: What a 'Trumpcession' could mean for Australia is out now on Apple , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E107 · Tue, March 11, 2025
What a "Trumpcession" could mean for Australia
Afternoon Headlines: ASX stocks plummet amid US recession fears Deep Dive: The US stock market has plunged this week prompting fears of a recession some economists are labelling a 'Trumpcession'. President Trump hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a recession, stating in a recent interview with Fox News that Americans need to brace for a “period of transition” after his approach to tariffs rattled global investors. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Scott Phillips, The Motley Fool's Chief Investment Officer, to explain what this means for Australia’s economy. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E106 · Mon, March 10, 2025
Is our coverage of Cyclone Alfred 'disaster porn'?
Tuesday Headlines: Donald Trump and ex-PM Malcolm Turnbull continue trading blows, Russia warns Australia against putting boots on the ground in Ukraine, Sydney caravan plot revealed to be a hoax, and political fundraising events cancelled after cyclone backlash. Deep Dive: Has the news media gone overboard with its coverage of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred? Over the weekend, ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred dominated news coverage, with major networks deploying dozens of reporters across multiple locations—leading to viral moments, online debate, and criticism that the coverage felt more like "disaster porn" than essential journalism. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Chris Spyrou unpack the ethics of disaster reporting. Sacha also speaks with a familiar voice – Katrina Blowers, who’s providing wall-to-wall coverage of the cyclone as Seven News Queensland’s Chief Reporter. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E105 · Mon, March 10, 2025
How to outsmart storm-chasing scammers
Afternoon headlines: Raids reportedly carried out in relation to a caravan allegedly found packed with explosives, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warns flood crisis far from over and Security at regional airports is under scrutiny Deep dive: Scammers are targeting Australians across the country in the wake of Cyclone Alfred, with the Prime Minister warning the impact from the crisis is far from over. The latest rise in scams include fake donation sites, fraudulent offers of support from scammers impersonating banks, insurance companies and charities or government organisations. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Ben Young, Westpac’s Head of Fraud Prevention, to discuss the red flags you should be looking out for. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E104 · Sun, March 09, 2025
The environmental group suing Tanya Plibersek
Monday Headlines: Hundreds of thousands without power as ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred moves inland, latest Newspoll shows hung parliament still likely, Israel cuts off power to Gaza and St George Dragons strongly condemns pie throw at the NRL. Deep Dive: Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek is being sued by a conservation group alleging she is not meeting her legal obligations to protect threatened species. The case, brought by The Wilderness Society, focuses on eleven species and an argument that specific plans for their protection aren’t being met. The government says it has doubled funding for conservation efforts, but environmental advocates say it’s not enough to prevent extinction. So, can legal action force stronger environmental protections? And does it stand a chance at succeeding? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith speaks with Sam Szoke-Burke, Biodiversity Policy and Campaign Manager at The Wilderness Society, to unpack the case and what it could mean for Australia’s wildlife. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E104 · Fri, March 07, 2025
Why Michelle Brasier kept her brother's ashes in a sandwich bag
Comedian and author Michelle Brasier transformed the heartbreak of losing her brother and father to cancer into a bold and unflinching brand of comedy. After discovering she has a 97% chance of carrying the same deadly gene, Michelle's life took a new direction. Her book, My Brother's Ashes are in a Sandwich Bag, powerfully captures how she uses humour as a tool to confront and navigate grief. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Michelle shares how she mistakenly slapped a priest and why she’s now using her story to advocate for families who are unfairly punished by insurance companies just for carrying a deadly gene. Grab tickets to Michelle's current tour here Weekend list with Jess Lukjanow and the listeners TO WATCH: Toxic Town on Netflix TO DO: Pilates retreats TO WATCH: High Potential on Disney+ TO WATCH: Oscar winning documentary No Other Land on Doc Play Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E103 · Fri, March 07, 2025
Cyclone Alfred is about to hit - what you need to know
Millions of residents across NSW and Queensland are preparing for Tropical Cyclone Alfred, expected to make landfall tomorrow. Torrential rain and wild winds have already caused widespread damage, prompting evacuation orders across Northern NSW and warnings that tens of thousands could be left without power. So, how bad could this get? And what should those in the impact zone expect? In this Afternoon Edition of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling breaks down the latest updates and emergency responses as Cyclone Alfred closes in with Senior Meteorologist Jonathan How from the Bureau of Meteorology. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E102 · Thu, March 06, 2025
Global politics was cooked this week. Here's what went down
Headlines: Tropical Cyclone Alfred continues slow journey towards land, Teenager arrested after trying to board plane with shotgun, EU leaders close to landmark defence deal as Trump again pauses tariffs, and Aussies are ditching Tesla. Deep Dive: From an explosive meeting at the White House to accusations of an all-out trade war, the last seven days in international politics has been positively batshit insane. We’ve seen the US pull military aid and intelligence sharing from Ukraine, the UK lead the charge to achieve peace in the region and Canada accuse America of trying to annex it. That’s not to mention Donald Trump’s first speech to the new Congress. In this morning’s deep dive, geopolitical expert Dr Keith Suter joins Bension Siebert to break down all the important moments from the last week and tell us what we can expect to come from it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E101 · Thu, March 06, 2025
The councils criminalising homelessness during Cyclone Alfred
Charities and community leaders are raising the alarm, accusing Australian councils of criminalising homelessness, effectively making it illegal. Councils in Queensland and Victoria have been under scrutiny for planning to slap thousands of dollars' worth of fines on people experiencing homelessness in a bid to lower crime and move people along. This has sparked an open letter from a community group in Moreton Bay, calling on all levels of government, saying the move is both an emergency and a violation of human rights. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Beau Haywood, Nourish Street Inc founder, who faced a 25-year addiction battle and a journey through homelessness to get his take on if councils and governments are in the wrong. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E100 · Wed, March 05, 2025
What does a neo-Nazi look like in Australia?
Headlines: Tropical Cyclone Alfred slows but still expected to bring “three natural disasters in one”, US cuts off intelligence sharing with Ukraine and Trumps rejects Gaza rebuild plan, and Aussie men doing no more housework than they were 20 years ago. Deep Dive: White supremacy, antisemitism and neo-Nazis have been making headlines lately in Australia. How worried should we be? We’ve seen rallies in Adelaide, Nazi salutes in Melbourne and politicians racing to legislate tough new penalties to crackdown on those displaying any sort of solidarity with the ideology. So how big is the neo-Nazi movement here in Australia right now? What does a modern day, Aussie Nazi look like? And are we doing enough to stop them? Dr Kaz Ross is an independent researcher into the far-right. She joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to reveal what she sees the state of Nazism to be in Australia, and what it’s future trajectory might be. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E99 · Wed, March 05, 2025
Part 3: Is the government going to save us from an AI jobs ‘tsunami’?
Many of us are considering how we might protect ourselves and our careers if artificial intelligence gets smart enough to do our jobs better than we can. Although unemployment is low in Australia and we are yet to see an AI jobs ‘tsunami’, economic modelling claims up to a third of Australians could be made jobless because of this technology in just five years. So what can we do about it ourselves? And are the Government and the union movement doing enough to help us adapt? In part three of the Briefing’s special series on AI and your job, Bension Siebert speaks to Deputy Secretary of the Australian Council of Trade Unions Joseph Mitchell to find out. Listen to Part 1 and Part 2 . Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E98 · Tue, March 04, 2025
Why this petition could change MAFS forever
Headlines: Concerts and footy matches cancelled as Alfred heads towards land, Zelensky says he’s ready to work under President Trump’s strong leadership, Teenager arrested over Sydney mosque threat, and we have an update on stranded astronauts. Deep Dive: Should an act of aggression as blatant as punching a wall be enough to end Married At First Sight? The country’s biggest reality TV show recently aired an incident where a participant punched a wall during an argument with their partner. It appears the matter has been reported to police, and the show has also been reported to SafeWork NSW as a result. Since it’s airing, individuals and groups have been calling for Nine, and the production company behind MAFS, to act. A petition set up by What Were You Wearing Australia, a major domestic, sexual and family violence victim-survivor group, is calling for MAFS to take more responsibility on how the incident was portrayed, to rethink how they display healthy and unhealthy relationships, and to take the moment as an opportunity to educate those watching as to what domestic violence can look like. But should the show continue at all? On this episode of The Briefing, founder of WYWWA and a leading survivor-advocate for domestic and sexual violence Sarah Williams joins Helen Smith on The Briefing to unpack the moment, and what we should learn from it. Listen to our recent ep, Confessions of an ex-MAFS producer here . You can find WYWWA’s petition here 1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family, and sexual violence counselling, information and support service. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit our website Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See <a href="https://omnystudio
S6 E97 · Tue, March 04, 2025
Part 2: How doctors are bringing AI into medicine (and protecting their jobs)
If you can’t beat them – join them? Tech billionaires like Elon Musk say the AI systems they're building will replace lots of people’s jobs, but also create better ones in their place. This week, The Briefing is bringing you a special three-part series on AI and how it’ impacting your job right now. In Part One , Bension Siebert spoke with a prolific Australian voice actor behind some of the world’s largest brands – like Google – and most recognisable characters – like Healthy Harold – about how his career disappeared and what advice he would give to the rest of us. But what about the jobs that are integrating AI right now, and say they’re all the better for it? In Part Two, we find out how Australian healthcare professionals are using AI to avoid being replaced by it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E96 · Mon, March 03, 2025
Do women need to 'shut up' for men's mental health?
Headlines: Tropical Cyclone Alfred and the federal election date, new findings on the gender pay gap and the 2025 Oscars wrap Deep dive: What does mental health advocacy for men look like in 2025, and does social media help or hinder the cause? A recent video by charity The Better Bloke Project has gone viral after the founders told women to “shut up” to give men “a minute to think” when discussing the state of men’s mental health in the country. The comments have sparked a fierce debate online around gender dynamics, how we talk about men and about mental health, and who should be leading those conversations. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Professor Braden Hill, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Students, Equity and Indigenous at Edith Cowan University in Perth and a Nyungar (Wardandi) man, who has taken on the task of unpacking content from The Better Bloke Project and other men’s health commentators about feminism, racism and mental health. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E95 · Mon, March 03, 2025
Part 1: AI crushed Tom’s career. Are the rest of us next?
Tech billionaires like Elon Musk say the AI systems they're building will replace lots of people’s jobs, but also create better ones in their place. Is that true? In Part One of the Briefing’s special three-part series on AI and your job, Bension Siebert explains the threat artificial intelligence is presenting to Australian workers. He speaks with the prolific Australian voice actor behind some of the world’s largest brands – like Google – and most recognisable characters – like Healthy Harold – about how his career disappeared, pretty much overnight, and what advice he would give to the rest of us. In Part Two, out tomorrow, we find out how Australian healthcare professionals are using AI to avoid being replaced by it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E94 · Sun, March 02, 2025
The high-profile illness seeing Aussie parents wrongly accused of abuse
Headlines: Europe is putting together a ‘coalition of the willing’ to stop the war in Ukraine, Israel blocks entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza, and Labor vows further spending on health while Coalition promises to bolster national security. Deep Dive: Munchausen Syndrome By Proxy is an illness most of us have heard of, having been at the centre of some of the biggest movies, TV series and criminal cases of the decade. But now the widespread awareness of “Factitious Disorder” is leading to innocent parents being wrongly accused of child medical abuse. One expert, who’s dedicated decades to researching the misuse and misdiagnosis of the illness, says it’s not only leading to false allegations, but it’s being used as leverage in family custody disputes, as ammo for doctors accused of malpractice, and seeing children battling rare diseases left behind. So how common is Factitious Disorder actually? And what impacts have high-profile stories like that of Gypsy-Rose Blanchard had on the amount of Aussies being wrongfully accused of hurting their kids? On this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Dr Helen Hayward-Brown, a medical anthropologist and sociologist who’s studied and assisted mums and dads across the globe who’ve been incorrectly accused of Munchausen Syndrome By Proxy, and all its other names, for the past 25 years. Further listening from the headlines: Trump wants to buy Greenland and annex Canada. Can he? is available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E93 · Fri, February 28, 2025
From Julian Assange to Amber Heard: The Australian lawyer behind it all
Jen Robinson made headlines as the lawyer who helped secure the release of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange after 14 years, but her advocacy doesn’t stop there. From representing Amber Heard, to challenging major fossil fuel corporations over climate change violations, and fighting for press freedom for Palestinian journalists, she has become a force in global justice. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Jen reveals the reasons behind her fight, why Anthony Albanese is ‘one of her favourite people’ and the moment she met Julian Assange. Weekend list with The Briefings listeners recommendations TO WATCH: Severance on Apple TV TO EAT: Homemade Baba ghanoush from Sofra: Lebanese Recipes to Share TO WATCH: Invisible Boys on Stan TO EAT: Orange cake from Recipe Tin Eats Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E92 · Fri, February 28, 2025
Who is the 'Milkshake Man' representing Australia at Eurovision?
Viral emerging pop sensation Go-Jo, also known as Marty Zambotto, will represent Australia at Eurovision in Basel, Switzerland this year. He’s taken the internet by storm and now, he’s hoping to do the same on the Eurovision stage with his track ‘Milkshake Man’. So, who is Go-Jo? How did a social media star land one of Australia’s most coveted music gigs? And does he have what it takes to finally bring the glass microphone home? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou chats with the artist about his journey from rural WA to the 69th edition of the world’s biggest music competition. The Eurovision Song Contest airs on SBS and SBS On Demand 14-18 May. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E91 · Fri, February 28, 2025
Star Casino is in a trading halt, but can a casino go broke?
Casinos are usually synonymous with high rollers and high stakes. But running a business of the size and scale of a casino comes with big risks and big expenses – despite having a possibly never-ending stream of clientele addicted to participating in what you’re selling. The Star Entertainment Group – who operate casinos in Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast – entered a trading halt, minutes before the Australian share market opened today, after failing to post its half-year financial results. On this catch-up episode of The Briefing, gambling expert and associate professor at Monash University Charles Livingstone joins Chris Spyrou to explain how we got here. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E90 · Thu, February 27, 2025
Are you the winner in the deal between Virgin and Qatar?
Friday headlines: Australian divorce rates at lowest in half a century, Penny Wong accuses coalition of ‘gunboat diplomacy’, mystery surrounds death of legendary Hollywood actor, and Katy Perry is going to space on all-woman crewed Blue Origin mission. Deep Dive: The government has approved a deal that will let Qatar Airways buy a quarter of Virgin Australia. The deal means an extra 28 flights a week – and there’s hope more competition in the sector equals cheaper airfares going forward. The Treasurer Jim Chalmers yesterday greenlit the deal with some caveats – including a guarantee of an Aussies on the Virgin board and protection of customer data. You might remember the political shitfight that was Labor knocking back a bid by the same airline to operate more routes in Australia in 2023 – with the Opposition and others accusing the Government of being far too cosy with Qantas. On this episode of The Briefing, author of the Chairmans Lounge and founder of new Australian media company Rampart News, Joe Aston, joins Bension Siebert to explain what this is going to mean for all of us flying in the future, and what Qantas might be feeling about it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E89 · Thu, February 27, 2025
Yes Marty Sheargold, endometriosis exists
Overnight, comedian and broadcaster Marty Sheargold parted ways with Triple M after comments he made on his drive show surrounding his views on the national Australian women’s soccer team The Matildas. But what you might have missed in the backlash was additional commentary made by Sheargold on his views on endometriosis, and his perception that women suffering from the condition were exaggerating or making up the experience. Endometriosis is a debilitating disease affecting 1 in 7 females and those assigned female at birth across the country. Often described as an “invisible illness”, sufferers were quick to voice their outrage. But what does joking about endo in this way do to the stigmatisation of people experiencing it in this country right now? On this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with two individuals who know what they're talking about when it comes to the disease – chair of Endometriosis Australia Monica Forlano, and ambassador and podcaster Ellie Angel-Mobbs. Find out more about the work of Endometriosis Australia here https://endometriosisaustralia.org/ Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E88 · Wed, February 26, 2025
Thousands killed, millions displaced. Is the West giving up on the Congo?
Thursday Headlines: Dutton defends share purchases and late property disclosures, religious sect jailed over death of Elizabeth Struhs, cost of private health insurance in Australia to go up and Marty Sheargold and Triple M "mutually part ways". Deep Dive: Millions of people have been displaced, thousands killed, and tensions with Rwanda are threatening to spill into a regional war—so why aren’t we hearing more about the Democratic Republic of Congo? While the country is no stranger to political instability, its latest flare-up along its eastern border is capturing little to no Western attention, despite it attracting condemnation from the United Nations. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with former AFP and Politico journalist Emmet Livingstone from inside the DRC to explain what’s happening – and why it feels like a huge chunk of the world’s not watching. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E87 · Wed, February 26, 2025
Should we foot the bill for other people's weight loss?
If it benefits the health of the whole country, would you be willing to pay for someone else in Australia to lose weight? Ozempic, Wegovy and medications like them have revolutionised weight loss in Australia and around the world in the past few years, and both are now approved for treating diabetes and your taxpayer money goes towards subsidising their cost. But the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme has rejected funding them for weight loss. This means that people who are overweight but do not have diabetes are looking at hundreds of dollars a month if they want to try them to lose weight. On this episode of the Briefing, we’re asking – is that the right call? Bension Siebert is joined by Jonathan Karnon, Professor in Health Economics at Flinders University’s College of Medicine and Public Health, and Lauren Ball, Professor of Community Health and Wellbeing at The University of Queensland, to help answer the question. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E86 · Tue, February 25, 2025
Microsoft has a new quantum computer chip. It could change the world
Headlines: Labor pushes Peter Dutton on allegations of insider trading, ABC says it’s spent $1.1 million on Antoinette Lattouf’s unfair dismissal case and AI videos of Donald Trump kissing Elon Musk’s feet have been played by hackers at federal department in the US. Deep Dive: Have we just witnessed one of the biggest technological achievements in our lifetime? Microsoft has revealed a new quantum computer chip – and an Australian team has been pivotal in its creation. But what’s behind a quantum chip, how much work goes into making one and when could we see these computers come to life? Professor David Reilly is a University of Sydney quantum physicist who has worked for Microsoft on the development of this quantum computer chip and is now leading the charge here in Australia. He joins Helen Smith on this episode of The Briefing to explain how it works, and what it means to him to have worked on the development. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E85 · Tue, February 25, 2025
We're being promised free GP visits. What's the catch?
With cost of living dominating the 2025 election, it was only a matter of time before Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made a major move. Over the weekend, he announced an $8.5 billion Medicare investment, aiming to make 90% of GP visits free by the end of the decade. But just hours later, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton matched the pledge dollar for dollar—escalating the battle over who’s to blame for Australia’s bulk-billing crisis. So, will this massive cash injection actually make it easier to see a doctor for free? And how much of this is just election politics? In this episode of The Briefing , Chris Spyrou speaks with James Gillespie, CEO of Cleanbill, to break down what this promise really means for everyday Australians. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E84 · Mon, February 24, 2025
Murky waters: the Chinese warship saga explained
Headlines: Anthony Albanese speaks about Medicare, racism and the US, New telco rules to protect DV victims announced, SAG awards recap. Deep Dive: Three Chinese warships unexpectedly entered international waters off the coast of Sydney and fired missiles over the weekend. Australian pilots on commercial passenger flights to New Zealand were reportedly radioed directly by the warships, advising them to immediately divert course. So why did China send the ships, how worried should we be, and is Australia prepared? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with international and political editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Peter Hartcher. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E83 · Mon, February 24, 2025
What happens when the Pope dies? The power games begin
Pope Francis is currently battling a serious bout of double pneumonia, with his condition described by the Vatican over the weekend as “critical”. As Catholics around the world pray for his recovery and health, you might find yourself asking; what happens if he dies? How is a new pope chosen? And did the movie currently getting Oscars buzz, Conclave, get it right? In today’s deep dive, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Oxford historian and Catholic Church expert, Dr Miles Pattenden, to find out how the church plans for the death or resignation of a pope. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E82 · Sun, February 23, 2025
Who is 'Peggy Sue'? Inside the viral campaign targetting Peter Dutton
Headlines: New poll shows Labor on track to lose the election as the Coalition matches Labor’s Medicare boost, today marks the third anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Pope asks for more prayers from hospital and Federal US employees asked to list their accomplishments as Elon Musk threatens to fire them Deep Dive: Have you heard the recent rumours that Peter Dutton might be ‘Peggy Sue’? Creator and sex worker Kayla Jade, who boasts 1.9 million followers on TikTok, has made her fame by talking about her work with her clients – with aliases of course – including a high-profile male client who pays her thousands of dollars to peg him. Dubbed ‘Peggy Sue’, comments underneath videos sharing her stories with him take guesses at who the high-profile client could be – with the front runner gaining most traction being the Opposition leader, Peter Dutton. Enter TikTokker and vocal critic of the Coalition, and its leader, Holly MacAlpine, who seized upon the moment, calling on her audience to flood Dutton’s comment section on socials with the words ‘Peggy Sue’. While rumours and personal attacks swirling ahead of an election are nothing new, there’s a clear shift in where they’re originating from, with creators and commentators leading the charge online. And with this year’s vote the first where Gen Z and millennials will outnumber Boomers at the ballot box, who is influencing young voters and leading the discourse – will make a difference. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Holly MacAlpine to explore what she thinks of the ‘Peggy Sue’ meme, politics on TikTok, and the influence of people like her. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E81 · Fri, February 21, 2025
The Imperfects ask the big questions, but can they answer them?
Resilience is a journey we’re all on - and it's the cornerstone of one of Australia’s top podcasts, The Imperfects. Hosted by Hugh van Cuylenburg, Josh van Cuylenburg, and Ryan Shelton, the show has become a go-to for authentic conversations about life’s challenges. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, The Imperfects pour themselves a cup of vulnerabilitea and get real about toxic masculinity, making friends as adults and what Americans really think of them. Find tickets to their live show here. Tickets go on sale on Monday 24 February at 11am, local time. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Pose on SBS on Demand TO READ: Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty TO DO: Line Dancing at your local pub or club TO WATCH: Mo on Netflix Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E80 · Fri, February 21, 2025
What? Are your noise cancelling headphones making you deaf?
Are your noise-cancelling headphones doing you serious damage? In ear, over-ear, for work, for working out, for study, for music festivals – removing background or outside noise has started to become an essential part of our listening experience day-to-day. But what if we’re going to all this effort – only to be doing terrible damage to our hearing, our memory and our brains? Wayne Wilson is an associate professor in the school of health and rehabilitation sciences at The University of Queensland. He joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to explain how it all works. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E79 · Thu, February 20, 2025
Is it unethical for us to read the lips of famous people?
Friday Headlines: Luis Rubiales found guilty of sexual assault over soccer player kiss, Peter Dutton wrongly says Labor is fast-tracking citizenship for Gazans to win votes, Meta and Google pull out of sponsoring Sydney’s Mardi Gras among DEI fight in the US, and the chances of an asteroid hitting earth yo-yos. Deep Dive: For decades now, whether you like it or not, we’ve had a desire to keep up with famous people, know their secrets and delight over their scandals. Up until recently, we’ve relied on so-called “sources” to spill the tea to a gossip rag or for paparazzi to capture an outrageous moment. Then came social media and it felt like we were getting a little glimpse behind the curtain into the “real” lives of famous people. But there’s no better source than straight from the horse’s mouth. Enter the TikTok lip reader, and it’s not just celebs in their sights; it’s politicians too. On this episode of The Briefing, we speak to Nina Dellinger, or @ninacelested on TikTok, a lip reader who is sharing what she thinks celebs and pollies are saying, why she creates the content she does, and how she does it. Further listening from the headlines: 'Asteroid hurtling towards Earth? Meet the team tasked with protecting us' is out now on Apple Podcasts , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E78 · Thu, February 20, 2025
Has President Trump turned into Dictator Donald?
During last year’s election, Donald Trump joked about becoming a dictator, but “only on day one” of his second term as president. But over the past month, Trump has ignored laws passed by the US Congress, rejected the authority of US courts, forced the deletion of thousands of government websites and destroyed reams of scientific literature and public health data. It’s starting to look less and less like a joke. On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert dives deep into whether Trump is genuinely beginning to turn the US into a dictatorship, and as Trump’s politics gain traction in Australia – most recently through billionaire Clive Palmer’s new political party – we ask what it would mean for this country if the world’s most powerful democracy slid into autocracy. On the other hand, Trump is no Hitler or Stalin – so is calling him a dictator...just a bit over-the-top? US investigative journalist Dave Levinthal and University of Melbourne lecturer in history Dr Sarah Walsh join Bension Siebert to help unpack these questions and more. Listen to The Briefing's episode on Trump's key cabinet picks here . Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E77 · Wed, February 19, 2025
What the actual f*** is Skibidi Toilet?
Headlines: Trump calls Zelensky a ‘dictator without elections’, ASIO boss says multiple ‘hostile’ nations plotted to murder critics in Australia and Scott Morrison asks for photo album bought at south Sydney Salvos to be returned. Deep Dive: Skibidi Toilet, the wildly popular YouTube web series featuring animated singing human heads emerging from toilets, is making its debut in an art gallery at the Institute of Modern Art (IMA) in Brisbane. Since it burst onto the scene in 2023, the quirky series by Russian content creator Alexey Gerasimov has captivated audiences worldwide, amassing 18 billion views and has gained the attention of film director Michael Bay. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Nick Aloisio-Shearer, the Assistant Director and curator of the exhibition at IMA, and Dr Nicholas Karah, the Director of the University of Queensland’s Centre for Digital Cultures and Societies, to explain the phenomenon that is Skibidi Toilet, and why we need to talk about it. You can check out the exhibition until the 30th of March at Brisbane’s Institute of Modern Art. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E76 · Wed, February 19, 2025
Another plane crashed. Here's how to stay calm on your next flight
When a plane carrying 80 people crash landed, burst into flames and flipped upside down on the tarmac of a Canadian airport yesterday, it was the third plane crash in North America in less than a month. 18 people were taken to hospital but, amazingly, no-one was killed. Although statistically, flying is a very safe way to travel – much safer than driving – these incidents make many of us increasingly nervous about the next time we get on a flight. On this episode of the Briefing, Helen Smith asks President of the Australian Association of Psychologists Sahra O'Doherty for her top tips for keeping calm, especially when your flight hits a patch of turbulence. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E75 · Tue, February 18, 2025
If you're getting your pills tested, should we all see the results?
Headlines: The Reserve Bank finally cut interest rates, man charged with online harassment of Antoinette Lattouf and a TikTokker finds an album of unseen photos of Scott Morrison from 1996. Deep Dive: If you’re getting your pills tested at a music festival, who ends up with your data from the results – and what should they do with it? Legal pill and drug testing in Australia has made significant legislative steps in recent years – from calls for it to be trialled by community organisations to being introduced into four jurisdictions across the country, with some being permanent sites. But as we become more familiar with pill testing, are we doing enough with the data we get from it for it to be of major use to the community? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by RMIT drug policy expert, Associate Professor Monica Barratt, who has some ideas for what our policymakers could be doing better. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E74 · Tue, February 18, 2025
How the Catholic Church protected Australia's worst paedophile
Gerald Ridsdale, known as Australia’s most notorious paedophile priest, has died in prison, aged 90. Ridsdale was convicted eight separate times over the sexual abuse of 70 known victim survivors – with the most recent sentencing being in 2023. The impact of his abuse – on victim survivors, on the reputation of the church, and on Australian society – cannot be understated. Lucie Morris Marr is a Walkley-awarding winner investigative journalist, author and broadcaster – who's book Fallen: The inside story of the secret trial and conviction of Cardinal George Pell went into great detail on the abuse surrounding Ridsdale and his relationship to Pell. She joins Helen Smith on this episode of The Briefing to outline what those impacted by his violence are feeling on the day of his death. You can find Lucie's newest book, Processed , here. If anything in this episode has caused you distress, you can get help. Some numbers you can call include: 1800 Respect National Helpline: 1800 737 732 Men's Referral Service: 1300 766 491 Lifeline (24-hour crisis line): 131 114 Victims of Crime Helpline: 1800 819 817 Full Stop Australia: 1800 385 578 Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E73 · Mon, February 17, 2025
Part 2: Why some stem cell treatments are banned in Australia
Stem cell treatments are being offered around the globe as an almost ‘miracle’ intervention promising to help patients avoid major surgeries and treat untreatable conditions. While commercialised and able to be accessed internationally, the bulk of stem cell related therapies in Australia remain ‘experimental,’ with only a limited amount of uses approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and the National Health and Medical Research Council. So what exactly are stem cells, why are Australians traveling overseas to get them and is it time for a regulatory rethink? In part two of this two-part deep dive of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Professor Megan Munsie, an expert in stem cell ethics and policy at the Murdoch Children's Research Institute, and Professor James St John, Head of the Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, to break down the future of stem cell treatments in Australia. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E72 · Mon, February 17, 2025
Part 1: Inside the hospital offering 'miracle' stem cell treatment
Headlines: Big day for borrowers as the RBA meets to consider rate cut, new video emerges of Australian soldier Oscar Jenkins captured fighting for Ukraine, and Donald Trump has been personally invited to NRL Vegas round. Deep dive: Imagine being told you needed to undergo major surgery to repair a torn ACL or dodgy hip? You know what you're likely in for – a few months of pain, some rehab and medical bill after medical bill. But what if you could avoid all of that with just a few injections? The only catch: you have to travel overseas, and the treatment is considered experimental in Australia. That’s the decision one of our listeners made when she opted against surgery—choosing instead to fly to Thailand for stem cell therapy. In part one of this two-part deep dive of The Briefing , Chris Spyrou chats with Marie Cassaniti about her experience, why she took the risk, and whether she believes it was worth it. Part two is in your feed now. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E71 · Mon, February 17, 2025
How White Lotus is influencing your next holiday
The highly anticipated third season of cult TV show The White Lotus has dropped today and as much as we’ll be picking apart the storylines and theme, we’ll also be obsessing over the location. Koh Samui takes centre stage as arguably the main character, just like Maui and Taormina did in the seasons that came before. But what will locals think of its new-found fame among cashed-up tourists? In today’s deep dive, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Australian Traveller’s Quentin Long talk about the “White Lotus effect”; what happens to a location when an insanely popular show makes it look so damn good. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E70 · Sun, February 16, 2025
The Greens have a plan - but is anyone listening?
Headlines: Australia building half as many homes compared to 30 years ago, Ukraine not part of fresh peace talks between US and Russia, and millions to be impacted by Sydney train chaos. Deep Dive: Have the Greens lost their momentum right before a federal election? In 2022, the party had their best federal election result ever, picking up 12 Senate seats and four in the House of Representatives. The result three years ago was dubbed a “green slide” - with the party, along with the Teal independents, enjoying a surge in support from the Australian public tired of major parties. Fast forward to the recent by-election result in the Melbourne seat of Prahran, which saw the Greens lose it to the Liberals after holding the seat for over a decade, and things are not looking for certain. Recent polling has also given the party their worst result in nine months, suggesting leader Adam Bandt is failing to cut through with voters. Are we about to see a big Green loss as Australians head to the polls later this year? Or can the party recapture the attention of Australian voters? Leader of the Greens, Adam Bandt, joins Sacha Barbour Gatt this episode of The Briefing to explain what the party is selling to voters, and how he'll negotiate a possible minority government. Further listening from the headlines: Are unions holding Australians to ransom with Wilhelmina Stracke is out now on Apple , Spotify , or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E69 · Fri, February 14, 2025
Kishwar Chowdhury is high on Bengali cuisine and a Snoop Dogg collab
Kishwar Chowdhury never imagined she’d find herself on national TV, but MasterChef took her to new heights giving her the platform to showcase Bengali cuisine to the world. The proud Bangladeshi-Aussie went from cooking in her kitchen to becoming a celebrity chef traveling around South Asia and beyond. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Kishwar shares how cooking helped her navigate grief and reveals why her dream cookbook collaboration is with Snoop Dogg and Martha Stewart. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Bump season 5 on Stan TO MAYBE WATCH: Apple Cider Vinegar on Netflix TO DO: Musical productions at your local school TO TRY: Pill box for your vitamins Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E68 · Fri, February 14, 2025
Asteroid hurtling towards Earth? Meet the team tasked with protecting us
Did you know there’s a body responsible for monitoring asteroids, and planning what to do should they set a collision course with Earth? The International Asteroid Warning Network is a UN-backed agency that has recently swung into action with the discovery of Asteroid 2024 YR4, which has 2.2% chance of hitting our planet in 2032. So, who are the people tasked with protecting us from city-destroying space rocks and what happens when the threat goes from unlikely, to likely? In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt takes you behind the scenes of the IAWN with former manager Dr Tim Spahr. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E67 · Thu, February 13, 2025
Ukrainian Australian Chrestyna knows what she'd say to Trump and Putin
Headlines: NSW nurses banned from practising anywhere in Australia, Hamas says ceasefire deal back on track, Albo drops strongest hints of a March or April election, and have you woken up single this morning? Deep Dive: Donald Trump promised to end the war in Ukraine in 24 hours – and he’s well past his own deadline. The US President now says he’s spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the phone, and secured an agreement to start negotiating for peace. But with neither side so far offering major concessions, almost three years after Russia illegally invaded Ukraine – is ending the war realistic? And are Ukrainians willing to accept peace at the expense of justice? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Chrestyna Kmetj from the Ukrainian Australian Federation for her reaction to the news. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E66 · Thu, February 13, 2025
Here’s how you should break up with someone
Breaking up with someone is never easy - and new research has found that the week leading up to Valentine's Day is a peak time for relationships break ups. So why does a holiday about love lead to more relationship ends? Communication styles within different generations and the way social media has warped our perception of what love should look has undoubtedly impacted how we approach break ups. In this special pre-Valentine's Day episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith speaks with Dr Lisa Portolan, a love, intimacy and online dating academic, to unpack the best ways to end a relationship and how our understanding of love has evolved. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E65 · Wed, February 12, 2025
How I exposed Belle Gibson's cancer con (and what Netflix got wrong)
Headlines: Two NSW health nurses to be charged for antisemitic comments, Antoinette Lattouf’s unfair dismissal trial hears from final witnesses, Westpac becomes second big bank to slash fixed mortgage rates, and Beavers 🦫 finish Czech damn project hit by red tape. Deep Dive: Belle Gibson was one of Australia’s first major wellness influencers, claiming to have cured her terminal brain cancer through clean eating and alternative therapies. She built a massive following, launched a bestselling app and cookbook, and even secured a partnership with Apple. But there was just one problem—Belle never had cancer. A series of exposés were published in 2015, and by 2017 her wellness empire had collapsed and she was a convicted fraudster who owed hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines. Now, her story is being told in a new Netflix series, Apple Cider Vinegar , billed as a “true-ish story, based on a lie.” In this episode of The Briefing, we hear from Chanelle McAuliffe - once Belle’s friend, who would go on to help expose her. Chanelle’s real-life experience is depicted in the series - she joins Chris Spyrou to share what Netflix got right, what it missed, and what it was like to watch the world discover the truth. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E64 · Wed, February 12, 2025
Why you can't get your medication, and who's to blame
Australia is in the grip of a growing medicine shortage, with pharmacists, doctors and patients all feeling the impact. There are currently more than 400 shortages listed on the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s website, with dozens more expected and hundreds of medications being discontinued. But what’s driving the shortages, and is there a fix? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by President of the Australian Medical Association Dr. Danielle McMullin to break down how we can improve the shortages, and whether Australians should brace for long-term medicine delays. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E63 · Tue, February 11, 2025
What's revenge quitting - and should you do it?
Headlines: Sam Kerr not guilty in racially aggravated harassment case, Trump tariffs on Australia still on the cards despite PM phone call, Banks to disregard HECS debt in loan test, and Liam Neeson is helping a Melbourne couple sell their house. Deep Dive: Most of us, at one point or another, have had a terrible boss. And while we might fantasise about quitting in a blaze of glory by destroying documents, changing passwords and stealing clients to exact our revenge - most of us stop short of doing just that. But thanks to Gen Z and changing office cultures, that’s starting to shift, with “revenge quitting” tipped as the leading workplace trend of 2025. But is quitting with a grudge a power move or a career killer? In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by recruitment expert Tammie Ballis from Realistic Careers to break down the risks, rewards, and realities of revenge quitting. Listen to Tammie's chat with The Briefing, on finding a new job in 2025, here . Further listening from the headlines: Trump's tariff war has come to Australia. Here's what it means for you is available on Apple , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E62 · Tue, February 11, 2025
Do I need therapy? Here’s how to try it without breaking the bank
Have you ever thought about going to therapy? Official stats show mental illness now affects about double the Australians it affected in the early 2000s. But in a cost-of-living crisis, no one wants to waste hundreds of dollars on therapy they don’t really need or spend time with a therapist that's not the right fit. It’s a crowded market – both with people seeking therapy, and the many types of therapy on offer in Australia. So how do you start, and decide on what’s right for you? In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with psychotherapist and President of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia Nigel Will Polak, and psychologists Jocelyn Brewer and Betty Chetcuti, to offer a no-bullshit explainer the steps you should take if you’re thinking therapy might be right for you. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E61 · Mon, February 10, 2025
Kendrick v Drake: The Super Bowl diss explained
Popular rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar are currently embroiled in a very public spat - which has come to a triumphant head with Kendrick's knockout performance at the Super Bowl yesterday. But why are they fighting again? Last year The Briefing brought you an explainer on why there is so much bad blood and the long history behind the feud. In case you missed it, listen in to catch up on all the context with hip hop journalist and author Simone Amelia Jordan. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E60 · Mon, February 10, 2025
Trump's tariff war has come to Australia. Here's what it means for you
Headlines: Jury in Sam Kerr trial retires, Hamas pauses release of Israeli hostages, Nationals walk back Dutton’s threat of axing public servant jobs and Super Bowl 59 will go down as one for the ages. Deep Dive: Australia has officially entered the tariff war. After weeks of speculation, yesterday US President Donald Trump confirmed Australia will be among the latest targets of sweeping 25 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. Australian PM Anthony Albanese says he’ll have an urgent phone call with the US President to convince Trump to tariff other countries but keep us the hell out of it. But will it work – and if it doesn’t, how will it impact not just Australian business, but everyday Aussies on the ground? Scott Phillips, Chief Investment Officer at The Motley Fool Australia, joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack what this means for us, and what he thinks will happen next. Further listening from the headlines: 'Drake v Kendrick Lamar isn't just a war of words' is available on Apple , Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E59 · Mon, February 10, 2025
Do egg shortages mean it's time for you to get a backyard chook?
Have you been impacted by the recent egg shortages across Australia? The major supermarkets have been hit hard by limited supplies – and a new bird flu outbreak in Victoria this week has sparked a warning that those shortages could persist a while yet. This all comes as experts report a rise in the number of us choosing to own our own chickens – first reported during the pandemic, and more recently as people looked to take control of their food supply when supermarket shelves were often bare of a lot of essentials. Fresh research out of the University of Adelaide is shining a picture on how we view our backyard chickens, what it says about us and whether we need to step up our game when it comes to caring for them. Researcher Dr Emily Buddle joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to explain. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E58 · Sun, February 09, 2025
Musk and Zuckerberg don’t care about child abuse content in your feed
Headlines: Labor’s major announcement for women’s health, Labor vote dives in Victorian by-elections, Sam Kerr’s lawyers to give final arguments in racial harassment trial, and more than 120 million people are expected to tune in to the Super Bowl today. Deep Dive: Content Warning - this deep dive discusses child sexual abuse. Australian Federal Police have issued a warning about a rise in the use of generative AI in creating child sexual abuse material. Not only is it being used by predators online, it’s also being used by Aussie kids to bully and harass each other. In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with documentary and podcast maker Akhim Dev who has long worked alongside police in this space, to talk about the threat of AI to kids, and how the tech is being used to fight and track down perpetrators of child sexual abuse. If this episode has brought up any issues for you, help is available: Lifeline 13 11 14 1800Respect Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E57 · Fri, February 07, 2025
Maddy MacRae on a $15k debt, being a slice of bread and her viral stomach
Maddy MacRae has over 3.5 million followers across her social media accounts, but surprisingly has spent years facing rejection and chasing acting gigs. With $15k debt, multiple hospitality jobs, and a faltering passion for her acting career, she broke into the influencer space almost by accident. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Maddy explains how she turned her stomach into viral content, and what it was like when she finally landed a role in a TV series. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO DO: Send us your recommendations to try on insta @thebriefingpodcast TO DO: Running with a mate or joining a run club TO TRY: Countdown app for goal setting TO TRY: Brown eyeliner to you waterline Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E56 · Fri, February 07, 2025
Confessions of a MAFS ex-producer
Is Australia’s biggest reality TV show unethical? Married at First Sight – one of Australia's most popular reality TV shows, currently in its 12th season – amasses millions of viewers each year. This season it has also garnered major controversy in its airing of toxic behaviour from various members of the show. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Alexandria Funnell, ex MAFS post producer and co-host of That’s Show Biz Baby, to unpack what really happens behind the scenes, if MAFS has crossed an ethical line this season, and if we should still be watching. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E55 · Thu, February 06, 2025
Would you give your thumbprint over to your bank?
Headlines: Peter Dutton holds rare press conference calling for inquiry into PM’s knowledge of explosives caravan, Trump restates plan for Gaza, ABC staff ‘disgusted’ by broadcaster’s handling of Antoinette Lattouf’s Federal Court case and 61% of you say you'll be voting for an independent candidate. Deep Dive: Mastercard will remove the 16-digit number from their credit and debit cards by 2030 and replace them with tokenisation and biometric authentication. The move is designed to crack down on identity theft and the fraudulent use of cards, with card fraud in Australia being over $868 million in the last financial year. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Gary Mortimer, a professor of marketing and consumer behaviour at the QUT Business School, to unpack what it all means. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E54 · Thu, February 06, 2025
Are billionaires buying Australia’s elections?
Are you satisfied with the Government right now? If polls are anything to go by, Australians are increasingly getting over being led by majority governments on the left or the right. Labor and the Coalition are unsurprisingly not keen on sharing power with independents and minor parties – and have responded by pushing legislation through parliament to reform our national elections. The Government says this new law would stop billionaires having too much influence on our elections – but independent MPs say it’s really aimed at making it harder for them, and new independents, to be elected in the future. It’s a battle over the future of the country. Who’s going to win, and what should you do about it? Allegra Spender is the Independent Member for Wentworth, and Kate Chaney the Independent Member for Curtin. On this episode of The Briefing, they join Bension Siebert from parliament house in Canberra. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E53 · Wed, February 05, 2025
How to make frequent flyer programs work for you, not the airlines
Headlines: Labor agrees to minimum jail sentences for terror crimes, the world reacts to Trump’s Gaza plan, Sam Kerr’s trial continues, and 50,000 people say life feels best in the morning. Deep Dive: Are Frequent Flyer programs, and supermarket loyalty programs, a scam? If these airlines and big supermarket chains are constantly pressuring us to join up can that really be in our best interests? On this episode of The Briefing, we dive deep into whether these programs are a genuine savings opportunity – and what mistakes you might be making if you’re trying to make your points convert to real life value. Bension Siebert chats to “points whisperer” and founder of I Fly Flat, Steven Hui, about the upsides and downsides of frequent flyer programs and the best strategies to save serious cash on an overseas trip. Further listening from the headlines: Yesterday's special breaking news edition following Trump's Gaza announcements is available on Spotify , Apple or wherever you get your podcasts now. 'How to retrain your brain in 2025' is available on Spotify , Apple or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E52 · Wed, February 05, 2025
'A nightmare': What Trump taking over Gaza means for the world
"The US will take over the Gaza Strip and we will do a job with it too. We'll own it.” US President Donald Trump has just announced his intention to expel all Palestinians from Gaza and claim ownership of the land for the United States. To forcefully and permanently exile more than 1.7 million people to neighbouring countries would have huge implications for global community – and potentially Australia, as a key ally to the USA. Has the world just witnessed the end of the two-state solution? In this special breaking news episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Chair in Global Islamic Politics at Deakin University Greg Barton to get his immediate reaction, and explain what this means for the Middle East, the world and Australia. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E51 · Tue, February 04, 2025
Who is the real Elon Musk?
Headlines: Australia to ban DeepSeek from government devices, China hits back with retaliatory tariffs on US goods, FBI enlisted in case against Melbourne’s Pam the Bird graffiti artist and Putin moves to revive Soviet-era Eurovision rival. You can catch last week's deep dive on DeepSeek on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts now. Deep Dive: How did Elon Musk become one of the most powerful men in the world? The tech billionaire is best known for being the CEO of Tesla and founder of SpaceX. But his involvement in politics - and new position within the Trump administration - is turning heads in the tech world. But who is Elon Musk, really? What drives him, and what do you need to know about his past to understand his future? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Mike Isaac, a technology correspondent for The New York Times, to unpack who Elon Musk is behind closed doors. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E50 · Tue, February 04, 2025
We've finally figured out an easier way for you to learn languages
Learning a new language is famously very hard and usually takes years. Could all that be about to change? While we now have apps like Duolingo to help, it’s still likely to take a long time and a lot of effort to be anything close to fluent. What usually helps is spending time in a country where everyone speaks the language you’re learning – but one group of Australian researchers says virtual reality and AI could step in for those who aren’t able to make the trip. Brodie McGee from the University of Southern Queensland is one of them. In this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert chats with the Australian teacher and researcher on how you could be supercharging the process of learning a new language. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E49 · Mon, February 03, 2025
Will your fun DNA test put a family member in prison?
Headlines: Major parties rake in over $130 million in political donations last financial year, Sam Kerr faces UK trial over racially aggravated harassment, Trump pauses tariffs on Mexico amid possible “deal” with the country, and Beyonce finally takes home Grammy for Album of the Year. Deep Dive: Have you ever spat in a tube and sent it off for testing? In recent years it feels like everyone knows someone – friends, family, people all over the country and world, who have placed their precious DNA into a home testing kit to learn about their heritage, unknown history, or for just for a bit of home science fun. But what if it’s all a massive exercise in exploitation? What happens to your DNA data – and what happens if it falls into the wrong hands? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by award-winning investigative journalist Claire Aird, host of LiSTNR’s newest exclusive podcast Secrets We Keep: Should I Spit? , to expose what happens when the DNA leaves you and heads out into the world. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E48 · Mon, February 03, 2025
Federal parliament is back. What does it mean for you?
Politics is about to be back on for 2025. You'd be forgiven for thinking government has already been in session this year – there’s been a bit on – but this week marks the first sitting of parliament for the year, and a major moment for the Labor government to get some legislative runs on the board before everyone starts fighting for your vote in the upcoming federal election. What will be dominating the debate over the next fortnight – and is what is on the political agenda the same stuff that matters to you and your day-to-day? On this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Nine’s National affairs editor, Andrew Probyn, to get his read on what will get the most (hot) airtime. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E47 · Sun, February 02, 2025
Michael was nearly beheaded by ISIS. He's worried they could be back
Headlines: Labor imposes counter-terrorism sanctions on online neo-Nazi network for the first time, North Queensland floods update, trade war looming over Trump’s tariffs against Canada, Mexico and China, and The Grammys are on today. Deep Dive: In the 2010s ISIS became one of the world’s biggest terror groups, controlling almost one-third of Syria and around half of Iraq. Over the years the group has claimed responsibility for terrorist attacks across the globe, including those in Paris in 2015, Berlin in 2016, and Manchester at an Ariana Grande concert the year after. Since 2018 the group’s influence has felt quieter, claiming less responsibility for attacks but that has changed. In 2024 we saw Russia’s deadliest terror attack in over two decades – which ISIS took responsibility for – and on New Year's Day, an ISIS-inspired attack killed 14 people and injured dozens more in New Orleans. So, is ISIS having a resurgence? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Michael Ware, a man who witnessed the birth of ISIS firsthand and is the only western journalist to escape one of their beheading attempts, to explain how we got here, if he thinks ISIS is having a resurgence, and if Australia is ready for a possible terror attack from the group. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E46 · Fri, January 31, 2025
Steph Claire Smith doesn't care what a mother 'should' look like
Steph Claire Smith has always been a trailblazer - and the model turned business founder and podcast host with over 1.4million followers doesn’t stop. The O.G influencer started Kic with her best friend Laura Henshaw. Since then, the pair have sky rocketed to global success, releasing product lines and joining the LiSTNR family with the KICPOD Podcast. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Steph opens up on how she's feeling about being an (almost) second time mum, her views of the 'Oatzempic' craze, and her obsession with chicken wings. Listen to KIC POD here Weekend List with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Jubilee's surrounded series on YouTube TO LISTEN: Bad Hasbara - The World's Most Moral Podcast TO EAT: Congee rice porridge TO READ: Hot Pilates Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E45 · Fri, January 31, 2025
These apps will help you save (and sometimes make) money
2024 was full of comments, complaints and promises from politicians and companies over the cost of living - and so far this year we're looking likely to see the same thing. Lowering your weekly groceries shop, scoring a discount or filling up the tank for less is something we all want, so how can we do it? In this episode of The Briefing, we did the homework for you. Chris Spyrou is joined by The Briefing's Helen Smith to unpack which apps and tools can save you the most on fuel, food and fashion. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E44 · Fri, January 31, 2025
BONUS: Sexsomnia is now a defence in sexual assault cases. What is it?
A man diagnosed with sexsomnia has been found not guilty of having non-consensual sex with a woman in Sydney. With the disorder now appearing as a key argument in trials across the country and the world, The Briefing wanted to bring you a previous explainer the team published on sexsomnia - what it is, how it works, what behaviours it can lead to. In this bonus episode, Helen Smith is joined by Aleks Trkulja from the Pleasure Centre, and specialist sleep physician Dr David Cunnington, so you can catch up on just how common sexsomnia is, and what you need to know about it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E43 · Thu, January 30, 2025
Bunnings responds: Why 'big is not bad' in the hardware industry
In this morning’s deep dive, we spoke to consumer and money expert Joel Gibson about how Bunnings has monpolised the hardware industry. When we reached out to the hardware chain for comment, they were keen to dispute our assertion that it holds a leading stake in the market and insists big brands don’t equal bad brands. In part two of our look at Bunnings and how it’s managed to become cemented in Australia’s cultural zeitgeist, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by the chain’s Managing Director, Mike Schneider. Listen to part one on LiSTNR, Apple or Spotify now. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E42 · Thu, January 30, 2025
Is Bunnings’ glowing reputation earned, or engineered?
Headlines: Greens to push for 50 cent public transport nationwide, no survivors after Washington plane and helicopter crash, Australians facing long-term homelessness surges 25% in five years and Donald Trump calls for Elon Musk’s Space X to “go get” stranded ISS astronauts. Deep Dive: By all accounts, Bunnings is a true blue Aussie success story. What started in 1907 as a sawmill in WA now boasts more than 300 locations across Australia and New Zealand and reported revenue in 2024 of $19 billion. On top of that, the hardware giant has managed to crack into the cultural zeitgeist. Who doesn’t talk fondly about a weekend snag and peruse of the paint aisle? But amidst its praise and popularity comes quiet criticism about its monopoly over the Australian hardware industry, its mega profits, its sometimes sneaky marketing tactics and its ability to effectively wipe out the competition. So, why do we seem to love Bunnings, despite these things? On today’s special two-part investigation, Sacha Barbour Gatt answers that question with money and consumer expert, Joel Gibson. In part two, in your feed now, we ask Bunnings Managing Director, Mike Schneider, what he thinks of the answer. Listen to part two 'Bunnings Responds' on LiSTNR, Apple or Spotify now. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E41 · Thu, January 30, 2025
Why this man wants us to stop using toilet paper
We’ve all got a butthole, but why are we so afraid to talk about it without making a joke of it? Professor Richard Hillman is one of the few specialists in Australia in anus cancer and he thinks it’s time we open up about the health of our rear ends. In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with the professor about anal hygiene, the case for banning toilet paper and why we need to end the stigma and shame around out buttholes. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E40 · Wed, January 29, 2025
Manslaughter, not murder: 14 believers guilty of little girl's death
Headlines: Caravan with explosives found in Sydney allegedly intended for antisemitic attack, lowered inflation rates open the door to April election date and Sweden charges man in first ever drink driving case involving a drone. Deep Dive: Elizabeth Struhs was an eight-year-old girl, living with incurable Type 1 diabetes in regional Queensland. Instead of receiving the insulin she needed to live, her parents and other members of their fringe religious group, The Saints, withdrew her injections, believing the healing power of God would save her. She died of diabetic ketoacidosis in January 2022. On Wednesday afternoon, in a bombshell Supreme Court ruling, 14 members of the congregation, including her parents, were found guilty of manslaughter. They included Elizabeth's father and the leader of the congregation, who had originally been charged with murder. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by investigative journalist Richard Baker on the ground in Queensland to explain who The Saints are, why what happened to Elizabeth is manslaughter, and whether this case will have any impact on other fringe religious groups that reject modern medicine around the country. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E39 · Wed, January 29, 2025
Four ways politicians could make renting and buying less shit
Our major political parties each have plans they say will make renting better and home ownership easier for young people. We’ll believe it when we see it. But with a federal election coming up, are Labor, the Coalition and the Greens missing solutions that could save you serious money? On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with McKell Institute Chief Executive Edward Cavanough about four ways to make renting or buying a house easier, and why most politicians aren’t talking about them. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E38 · Tue, January 28, 2025
Why Chinese AI DeepSeek is making the tech world question everything
Headlines: Australia Day neo-Nazis face court in Adelaide, how Dutton’s promise to cut 36,000 government jobs could affect you, Trump signs orders to halt government grants and Happy Lunar New Year! Deep Dive: Has China just won the AI arms race? The United States has been the undisputed leader in the race for global AI domination – that was until this week, where everything changed. Meet DeepSeek - a little-known Chinese competitor to ChatGPT that has in one swift announcement wiped one trillion dollars off the stock market and smashed what we thought we knew about world’s most in-demand new technology. Is it all over for ChatGPT? How is DeepSeek different, and why has it made such a major splash in the global community? Mark Pesce is a partner in AI consultancy Wisely AI and honorary associate in Digital Cultures at the University of Sydney. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to explain what we know, and what it all means. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E37 · Tue, January 28, 2025
The Algorithm, Part 2: What streaming is doing to how we make music
Are artists making music just for the algorithm? Alex Burnett is the Australian songwriter behind music with 1.4 billion streams on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify. He has worked on no less than 30 songs that have made it into Triple J’s Hottest 100, collaborating with artists like Thelma Plum, Hockey Dad, Alison Wonderland, Dan Sultan, Hayden James, Bliss n Eso and Flight Facilities. On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks to Alex about what it takes to make a song into a viral hit, and how streaming algorithms change the kind of music that gets made in the first place - and what that means for the “authenticity” of songs that make it onto the playlists on our phones. Listen to The Algorithm, Part 1: How to stop Spotify killing your music taste here . Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E36 · Mon, January 27, 2025
The Algorithm, Part 1: How to stop Spotify killing your music taste
Headlines: Australia’s road toll hits 12-year high, Aussies pay more for dental care than most OECD countries, Donald Trump to sign order banning trans people from US Military and New York gets in on the stinky flower trend. Listen to our September 2024 deep dive 'The Case for putting dental in Medicare' with Jordan Steele-John on Apple or Spotify here. Deep Dive: Most of us have been listening to music for years through streaming apps – like the one you’re reading this on right now. But these platforms are not neutral. They are massive businesses with a vested interest in keeping you listening. In Part 1 of a two-part The Briefing special, Bension Siebert interviews the man who invented many of Spotify’s algorithms. Glenn McDonald reveals what these algorithms are doing to our taste in music, what we can do about it as individuals, and what happens behind closed doors to make songs viral. In Part 2, you’ll hear from an Australian songwriter who has reached 1.4 billion streams, on how the incentives of streaming are changing the kind of music that gets made in the first place. Listen to The Algorithm, Part 2: How Spotify changed music forever in the Briefing feed this afternoon from 3pm. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E35 · Mon, January 27, 2025
Why do we dream?
Did you have a dream last night? Do you remember it? Dreams hold a lot of significance throughout history – but how much should we be reading into them, and is there any science to back up the theories we have for what we experience in our dreams? Dr Manuela Kirberg is a researcher and a lecturer in philosophy at Monash University and part of the Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, which looks at our sleep wake cycle. She joins Helen Smith on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the complex question of why we dream. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E34 · Sun, January 26, 2025
What it takes to become an Australian citizen on Australia Day
Headlines: Italian Jannik Sinner wins the Australian Open, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks on Holocaust Remembrance Day and high temperatures predicted across the country today. Deep Dive: As we mark the Australia Day public holiday, whether you’re working, spending it at the beach or at a BBQ, attending a rally or getting through some chores – we can’t ignore the contentious nature of our national day. So, while many argue about what today should be used for – celebration or mourning – many others will be granted their long-held wish of becoming an Australian citizen. How do they feel about the debate, given the difficult journey they’ve been on to attain citizenship? And what does it mean to them now they’ve achieved that goal, many years and tens of thousands of dollars later? On this Australia Day, we’re bringing you the story of what it takes to become an Aussie citizen. Sami Shah is a writer, comedian and educator who came to Australia from Pakistan, after his life was threatened while working as a journalist there. On this episode of The Briefing, he tells Sacha Barbour Gatt why he wanted to become an Australian citizen, and what citizenship means to him. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E33 · Fri, January 24, 2025
This Australia Day, Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts is thinking about the kids
Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts, is a proud Bundjalung Widubul-Wiabul woman who’s a survivor of out-of-home care and now a practising lawyer fighting for the freedom of others. She’s the first ACT Commissioner for First Nations children, won Marie Claire’s change maker of the year and is author of Long Yarn Short Long Yarn Short: We are still here. Speaking to The Weekend Briefing for a second time , Vanessa joins Antoinette Lattouf to unpack Peter Dutton’s controversial comments about refusing to stand in front of the Aboriginal flag, the push by a prominent barrister to scrap Acknowledgements of Country, and the harm done in the policing of First Nations young people. Weekend List TO EAT: Fattoush Salad With Fried Pita Chips TO WATCH: Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action documentary on Netflix TO DO: TooGoodToGo App TO READ: Long Yarn Short: We are still here by Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E32 · Fri, January 24, 2025
How Prince Harry made the Murdoch media empire say sorry
Sometimes sorry is the hardest, and in this case, most expensive word. This week, Prince Harry achieved something many thought impossible – receiving a “full apology” from Rupert Murdoch’s News Group Newspapers. The apology was part of a settlement over intrusions into the Duke of Sussex's private life, the use of private investigators, and "phone hacking, surveillance and misuse of private information". On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with veteran journalist and former host of the ABC’s Media Watch program, Paul Barry, to find out how the royal got a Murdoch paper to say sorry. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E31 · Thu, January 23, 2025
$2 a litre: Who’s f*cking with our petrol prices?
Headlines: Albo to promise $10,000 cash bonus for apprentices, Southport attacker jailed for 52 years over murder of three girls, Splendour in the Grass cancelled for a second straight year and Aryna Sabalenka one step closer to AO three-peat. Deep Dive: What the hell is going on with petrol prices? Right now in Australia, you can pay $2.26 a litre at one servo, but then drive past another, selling the same unleaded for $1.64, on the same road. Why? On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Peter Khoury, a spokesperson for the National Roads and Motorists' Association, to unravel what’s behind the wildly different pricing, who exactly we should blame when petrol prices skyrocket, and how to find the best deal, easily. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E30 · Thu, January 23, 2025
Why you're waiting longer for shorter TV shows
Long gone are the glory days of television when we’d be handed 20+ episode seasons of our favourite shows, enough to keep us going and satiated for the year before a new run of episodes dropped. Now, good tv shows are sometimes rolling out just six episode seasons with gaps as long as two years between them. We know COVID and the 2023 writers’ strike had an impact - but what we’re really seeing is the ‘streamification’ of tv, with Netflix, Prime and Stan originals dominating the space with big names and big budgets. So, are the days of side quests, character development and filler eps gone? Legendary Aussie tv writer and creator Michael Lucas joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to discuss. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E29 · Wed, January 22, 2025
We're tuning out the environment. Here’s why that’s dangerous
Headlines: Dutton gains ‘significant lead’ over Albanese as preferred PM, Trump threatens Putin with tariffs and demands apology from 'nasty’ bishop, cost of a Melbourne to Sydney flight has jumped since competition collapse and no Aussies left in the singles at the Australian Open. Deep Dive: How would you rate Labor on its environmental record? After sweeping to power in 2022 promising to be a point of difference to the Liberals, its failed to come through on a number of key pledges. As we head into the 2025 federal election the focus and priority of both the major political parties and the public has changed. Cost of living, housing, healthcare and the economy are ranking as the biggest issues according to the Ipsos Issues Monitor. So, can we expect much of either party when it comes to the environment this year? The Australian Conservation Foundation is hoping so, and in today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by the ACF’s National Biodiversity Policy Adviser, Brendan Sydes to find out more. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E28 · Wed, January 22, 2025
Could an Aussie get on the mission to Mars (and come back alive)?
Donald Trump says US astronauts will be planting an American flag on Mars within the next four years. But how about an Australian flag? In 2019 the then-PM Scott Morrison committed 150 million taxpayer dollars to get Australia a seat at the table for Project Artemis. Australia may not have anything of the scale of NASA, but we do have a national space agency. So could we see an Australian flag planted right next to the American one on the red planet in the next few years? Dr Rebecca Allen is Co-Director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute at Swinburne University of Technology. She joins Bension Siebert to explain what is, and isn’t, possible. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E27 · Tue, January 21, 2025
You can now visit the Jonestown Massacre site - but should you?
Headlines: Trump’s first day back in office wrapped, AFP says foreign influence may be behind antisemitic attacks, mental health wards shut down in NSW as hundreds of psychiatrists resign and Novak Djokovic is through to the AO semi-final. Deep Dive: In November 1978, more than 900 people died in what’s become one of the most notorious mass murders in history; the Jonestown Massacre. Cult leader Jim Jones ordered his followers in the jungle of South America’s Guyana to drink punch-laced cyanide under the promise that they would be granted access to paradise. The compound in which Jones lived, preached and ultimately murdered hundreds of people has been reclaimed by the jungle and closed off since the late 70s. But a local travel agency has just started tours to the site, promising to honour the victims and their memories. But is it insensitive for tourists to visit a location with such a dark and tragic past? Or is it no different to the tourism we see at Auschwitz, the 9/11 site or Chernobyl? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with tour organiser from Wanderlust Adventures, Roselyn Sewcharran. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E26 · Tue, January 21, 2025
Trump is President again. Here’s how it affects Australia’s billionaires
Two of Australia’s richest people – Gina Rinehart and Anthony Pratt - were on the invites list to Donald Trump’s inauguration, as he was sworn in as US President for the second time today. It was the latest example of Trump collecting some billionaires from around the world to be part of the new president’s inner circle. So what does this mean for Australia? Could these relationships help us avoid tariffs Trump is threatening? Could it help our economy? Or will this just be a group of very rich people hoping to make each other richer? On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Guardian Australia journalist Ben Doherty about how close Trump has become with this country’s richest people, and what these relationships could mean for us. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E25 · Mon, January 20, 2025
Are unions holding Australians to ransom?
Headlines: Donald Trump returns to the White House, new polling shows Aussies are more optimistic in 2025 and Alex de Minaur is through to the AO quarter-finals! Deep dive: We have a lot to be thankful to Australia’s trade unions for; the five-day work week, annual leave entitlements and protections against unfair. Since the 1800s, the movement has been working hard to protect workers’ rights in this country and ensure those benefits are there for future generations once they get into the workforce. But as time has progressed, and the number of unions has grown, many have become fixated on achieving monster pay rises for specific groups, all while carrying out hugely disruptive industrial action. So, as Sydneysiders reel from days of mayhem on the rail network and questions are asked across the country about underworld criminal links to the CFMEU, we ask: is the Australian public being held hostage by unions and their demands? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with pro-unionist Wilhelmina Stracke to find out. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E24 · Mon, January 20, 2025
Is Novak Djokovic a 'political scapegoat'?
Novak Djokovic has made global headlines for opting out of a customary on-court interview following comments made by broadcaster Tony Jones, who chanted “Novak, he’s overrated... Novak’s a has-been. Novak, kick him out.” Djokovic said Jones’ comments “made a mockery of Serbian fans” and that they were “insulting and offensive” with members of the Serbian community calling them racist. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Dr Nina Marković, board member of the Serbian council of Australia and political academic, to explain why the community has put in a complaint with the Australian Human Rights commission. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E23 · Sun, January 19, 2025
How big beer is taking over the taps at your local pub
Headlines: First hostages freed in Israel-Gaza ceasefire deal Peter Dutton promises tax-free lunches for small businesses TikTok back online for American users after Trump promises to save it Djokovic skips post-match AO interview awaiting apology from Nine Deep Dive: Who decides what beer is served on tap at your local bar, pub or club? It might not be obvious from all the brands and styles of beer on offer, but something like 80% of the beer we drink in Australia is owned by two Japanese megacompanies Lion and Asahi - both of which have spent millions of dollars buying up craft breweries in Australia. And if you're a pub owner in need of renovations, or a new tap system, or you’re opening up a new venue, there's a good chance you'll be hearing from one of these companies, calling to make an offer that’s hard to refuse. Mazen Hajjar is CEO of Hawkers Beer, one of the largest independent producers in Victoria. He argues there’s a market duopoly at play, and it’s strangling what might otherwise be a thriving craft beer industry in Australia. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to explain why. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E22 · Fri, January 17, 2025
Kris Fade on bling, Dubai and avoiding drama
Kris Fade was told he wasn’t made for radio - now he’s one of the biggest media personalities in Dubai. The Lebanese-Australian presenter has become a household name in the Middle East and is gaining fans around the world after appearing in drama-packed reality show Dubai Bling. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Kris reveals why he’s stepping back in season three, how fame has changed his life from his beginnings in Sydney, and what it takes to be on the show. Weekend List TO WATCH: Kunk on Earth on Netflix TO DO: Sauna and cold shower on the cheap TO DO: IKEA Breakfast Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E21 · Fri, January 17, 2025
Why Gen Z are dancing in front of burning houses
Gen Z has been dubbed the most 'unserious generation' - but is it true? Viral social media posts of young creators dancing in front of LA's fires and storm damage in Sydney have prompted the theory that the generation can't seem to take anything - CEO's being shot, natural disasters, a cost of living crisis - seriously. But what's behind the behaviour, and is it a fair generalisation? In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt, is joined by Gen Z representatives Chris Spyrou and Helen Smith to discuss if and why Gen Z is so unserious. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E20 · Thu, January 16, 2025
Could climate change turn you into a criminal?
Headlines: Israel stalls on signing Gaza ceasefire deal, Trump could save TikTok, the AO has a new villain and new study shows older siblings and girls are their parent's favourites. Helen Smith's deep dive on TikTok is available now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Deep Dive: When you think of hot days, you might think of iced drinks, flicking on the AC or rushing to your nearest beach. But, what about more crime? Science says the two are connected, with one Australian study suggesting by the end of the century – we'll experience over 1.5 million more crimes all thanks to a global rise in temperatures. Is there any truth to it and if so, what is it about the heat that encourages criminality? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Associate Professor Lindsie Arthur from the University of Melbourne’s School of Psychological Science to unpack it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E19 · Thu, January 16, 2025
Everything you need to know about the Gaza ceasefire deal
After 15 months of violence and bloodshed, a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel has finally been reached. While there have been celebrations in the streets of both Gaza and Tel Aviv, the road to peace in the region will be long and is far from guaranteed. So, what happens now an initial deal has been struck and what hurdles stand in the way of a permanent end to the war? Professor Greg Barton, Chair in Global Islamic Politics at Deakin University joins Bension Siebert in today’s episode of The Briefing to discuss the ceasefire and what we can expect to happen next. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E18 · Wed, January 15, 2025
How does a casino go broke? The Star saga explained
Headlines: Israel and Hamas reach ceasefire deal, Bill Shorten to leave politics nine days early, Coles to ban the sale of knives after staff stabbed and Vukic and de Minaur through to round three of the AO, Kokkinakis and Tomljanović crash out. Deep Dive: Casinos are usually synonymous with high rollers and high stakes. But running a business of the size and scale of a casino comes with big risks and big expenses – despite having a possibly never-ending stream of clientele addicted to participating in what you’re selling. With that in mind – how did we end up in a situation where our largest publicly traded casino operator is in serious financial trouble? The Star Entertainment Group – who operate casinos in Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast – could be broke within weeks. Charles Livingstone is a gambling expert and associate professor at Monash University – he joins Chris Spyrou on this episode of The Briefing to explain how that’s possible and what we need to know about what might happen over the coming months. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E17 · Wed, January 15, 2025
What your TikTok will look like when all the Americans are gone
The end is nigh for TikTok, which is set to be banned in the US on the 19th of January. After US congress passed the laws that would effectively ban the app last year – unless someone buys it from its China-based parent company, ByteDance – American’s reacting with dismay and humour – with some users already jumping ship to a new Chinese social media platform ‘Red Note’. But will it actually happen, or will Trump, Musk or Zuckerberg step in and stop it in the final hours? And if it goes ahead, what will using TikTok look like for the rest of us going forward? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Cam Wilson, writer of Australian daily tech newsletter The Sizzle, and Associate Editor of Crikey, to unpack how this ban would work and if it will change anything for Australian users. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E16 · Tue, January 14, 2025
An ex-PM reveals the truth behind our newest election campaign slogans
Headlines: Australian man captured while fighting in Ukraine reportedly killed, Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal ‘on the brink,' Donald Trump would have been convicted in election case if he didn’t win, Sam Kerr appears in court over alleged racial harassment charge, Princess Kate says she’s in remission, Aus Open update. Deep Dive: Are we ready to ‘build Australia’s future’, or are we looking to get the country ‘back on track’? That's the big question – and pitch – both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and leader of the Coalition Peter Dutton have launched this week as we enter the first stage of campaigning for our upcoming federal election. Both campaign slogans are short but come with layered meaning – about the state of the country, and what each major party thinks the average Australian is looking for when they go to cast their vote. But which one has more cut through – and is anyone even listening anymore? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by former Prime Minister of Australia Malcolm Turnbull to get his verdict on which campaign slogan sounds like a winner, and what they say about how the major parties sees us, and if we’re headed towards a minority government. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E15 · Tue, January 14, 2025
Trump wants to buy Greenland and annex Canada. Can he?
Donald Trump spent the past week threatening to buy Greenland, annex Canada, re-name the Gulf of Mexico and take over the Panama Canal, potentially by force. Trump returns to the Oval Office as US President for the second time next week, and he talks a big game about expanding US territory - but are these empty threats, or could he actually do it? On this episode of the Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert discuss the possibilities. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E14 · Mon, January 13, 2025
Is this $2.3 billion industry is scamming you at the checkout?
Headlines: Kyrgios hints at retirement, Federal MP calls for mandatory sentences for antisemitic vandals, JD Vance walks back Trump’s promise to pardon Jan 6 rioters and Climate activists vandalise Charles Darwin’s grave. Deep Dive: How do you know if you’re really buying an organic product? Insiders have accused producers of falsely labelling products, prompting a new bill that was introduced by the Coalition last year - a big deal for an industry worth $2.3 billion in Australia. How can we really know the journey a product is taking before it arrives on the shelf at the supermarket? If the labelling isn’t accurate, should we just give up on buying organic all together? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Erin Turner, chief executive of the Consumer Policy Research Centre, to explain how the government can better regulate the sector and how it could change what’s on our shelves. In a statement, Peak industry body, Australian Organic Limited told The Briefing: "Australian Organic Limited welcomes the new bill as a way to ensure the word ‘organic’ can only be displayed on products sold by the thousands of certified organic operators who adhere to a strict set of principles and pass regular auditing checks to display a certification mark on their labels." Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E13 · Mon, January 13, 2025
LA is burning. Could Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane be next?
At least 24 people have been killed and more than 10,000 properties destroyed in the Los Angeles wildfires. Australia’s bushfire season puts the country on edge every year – especially across our regions - but could major cities here also be at risk? In this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert speaks to Craig Lapsley, Victoria’s former Fire Services Commissioner, to break down what he's observed and what we can learn from LA’s deadly fires. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E12 · Sun, January 12, 2025
The AI choosing who gets to be born in Australia
Headlines: LA fires still not contained, Penny Wong and Kevin Rudd invited to Trump’s Inauguration, Peter Dutton launches election campaign and Australian Open kicks off. Deep Dive: Should artificial intelligence be deciding who gets to be born? A group of Australian researchers is asking that question, amid revelations the technology is being used in fertility clinics in Australia. How does it work, and should we be embracing it, or seriously concerned? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with one of the paper’s authors, Professor of Bioethics at Monash University Professor Catherine Mills, to discuss the the pros and cons of AI in IVF. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E11 · Fri, January 10, 2025
How Eddie Dilleen went from Centrelink to $90m worth of property
Eddie Dilleen went from living on welfare with his mum to building a $90 million property portfolio, and he’s still in his 30s. He bought his first home when he was just 18 after from working at McDonalds and now he owns over 100 properties across Australia. So how did he do it? In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Eddie explains why he thinks young people aren’t priced out of the market and reveals the serious sacrifices he made along the way. Weekend List TO WATCH: Carry On on Netflix TO READ: This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger TO DO: Spring clean TO DO: Sharpen pencils Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E10 · Fri, January 10, 2025
'I don't find it funny': CoolCabanas CEO weighs in the beach tent debate
We love a debate down under, and every summer for the last few years, Aussies have been going head-to-head over one topic: CoolCabanas. The humble beach tent has been spotted on sands across the country since 2015, but it’s now sparked a furious debate about Australian beach etiquette. So, while it’s all just a bit of fun, it begs the question: why did something that’s designed to protect us from the sun become so controversial? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with the CEO of CoolCabanas Mark Fraser and TikTokker Guncle Diaries to get their take on the debate and get their verdict on whether Aussie beaches should be cabana free. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E9 · Thu, January 09, 2025
How to retrain your brain in 2025
Headlines: The latest on the LA fires, new data shows Aussies wages up, Birkenstock sues copycats, and Bluey Lego will hit shelves by the end of this year! Deep dive: The new year often comes with a range of emotions - you might be feeling relaxed and revitalised or you might be feeling a little anxious and overwhelmed at the year that lies ahead. But how can we balance the bad with genuine optimism? As part of The Briefing’s series on starting 2025 right, we’re exploring how to cultivate hope and resilience this year. In this episode, Chris Spyrou chats with Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa, author, neuroscience expert, and host of the hit podcast Do You Fucking Mind, to talk through some practical strategies for finding joy and staying positive this year. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E8 · Thu, January 09, 2025
Inside the LA wildfires: An Australian prepares to evacuate
Five people have been killed and more than 30,000 people are under evacuation orders as the Los Angeles wildfires continue to rage. More than 1000 buildings, including many on Sunset Boulevard, and the homes of celebrities, have been destroyed by the out-of-control fires. The wildfires in the middle of winter have shocked residents and prompted warnings amid the escalating climate crisis that there is now no such thing as a “fire season” in the state - the danger is all year round. On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Australian ex-pat Jaxson McLennan from his home near a fire-front in Pasadena. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E7 · Wed, January 08, 2025
The AI tools that will make your life easier in 2025
Headlines: Rescued hiker in NSW survived a fortnight on berries and two muesli bars, wildfires have forced thousands to flee in Los Angeles, the pilot in Rottnest Island plane crash identified, and Brisbane (somehow) ranks worst city in Australia for traffic. Deep Dive: As artificial intelligence gets exponentially better at just about everything, it’s making people in all kinds of professions – from teachers to doctors, to lawyers, to retail workers – a little bit nervous. But AI is also making a lot of people very excited, with new, mind-bending capabilities coming online every week. What tools should you be using in 2025 to keep ahead of the curve and make your life a little easier? As part of The Briefing’s series on how to start your 2025 right, Bension Siebert is joined by Toby Walsh, professor of Artificial Intelligence at UNSW, to guide you through what’s out there, what you should be using, and where to start with AI in the new year. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E6 · Wed, January 08, 2025
Is your feed about to get f*cked? A former Facebook CEO weighs in
Facebook, and its parent company Meta, is saying goodbye to fact-checkers. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in an announcement posted to social media that fact checkers had become “too politically biased”, and have "destroyed more trust than they've created, especially in the US". Meta will also change its algorithms to recommend more political content on its platforms. Does the move have anything to do with Trump’s threats to jail Zuckerberg for life for alleged US election interference? And what is this going to mean for our Facebook and Instagram feeds in 2025? Stephen Scheeler knows Mark Zuckerberg and is a former CEO of Facebook in Australia. What does he think of the tech super leader bending the knee to a Donald Trump administration? He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the announcement, and what happens next. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E5 · Tue, January 07, 2025
Hate your job? Here's how to change careers in 2025
Headlines: Meta scraps independent fact-checkers, Aussie house prices dip, three missing after Rottnest Island plane crash and Donald Trump Junior arrives in Greenland amidst talk his dad wants to buy the country. Deep Dive: A new year often brings reflection, and for many, that means rethinking their job. Does it make you happy? Pay enough? Offer the growth you’re looking for? But changing careers isn’t an easy undertaking, especially when navigating new industries, re-training, the place of AI and figuring out how to put your best foot forward in an increasingly competitive market. To kick off 2025, The Briefing is giving you everything you need to start your year on the first foot. In this episode, Chris Spyrou is joined by career consultant and recruiter Tammie Ballis from Realistic Careers, who shares expert insights to help you successfully change careers in 2025. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E4 · Tue, January 07, 2025
The truth behind a 'mysterious' new virus sweeping China
A recent scroll of your social media feed might have made you feel like you were back in 2020. Footage of overwhelmed hospital emergency rooms in China have been doing the rounds online, with claims that a new and mysterious virus is sweeping the country and making people unwell. So, can we trust these reports? What is actually causing people to get sick in China right now? And are we at risk of it in Australia? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Professor Jill Carr from Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute to breaks down HMPV, it’s severity and whether we’re at risk here in Australia. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E3 · Mon, January 06, 2025
How to avoid fake news in 2025
Headlines: Canada’s PM Justin Trudeau announces resignation, man faces court in Fiji over alleged rape of Virgin Airlines crew member, Donald Trump’s election win to be certified by Kamala Harris today, and the Aussies have been snubbed at the Golden Globes. Deep Dive: For a lot of us, consuming news in 2024 could have been best described by one word – fatigue. Exhaustion from the 24-hour news cycle, the growing number of voices telling us what to think about a story and increasing lack of transparency in news sources might have led you to switch off from news as the year came to an end. But news doesn't stop – and in the year of a federal election in Australia, a Trump 2.0 presidency, and everything else that might happen – how should you be consuming your news? This week The Briefing is bringing you everything you need to get cracking in 2025. In this episode of the Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Crikey investigative journalist Daany Saeed and Konrad Benjamin AKA Punters Politics to break down how you can better consume news in 2025. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E2 · Mon, January 06, 2025
The OnlyFans house that made $10 million last month
The Bop House is a multimillion-dollar mansion full of female OnlyFans creators living together and making viral online content. They claim to have made US$10 million just last month. Content creator houses full of influencers are nothing new - we’ve had the Hype House on TikTok and Team 10 on YouTube - but The Bop House has the internet divided. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by adult content creator and industry advocate Nova Hawthorne to explain what a 'bop' is, and why so many people are hating on the OF creators who live there. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S6 E1 · Sun, January 05, 2025
Investing $20 a week could make you rich in 2025
Headlines: Anthony Albanese kicks off election year with multi-state blitz, top pay packets of Aussie uni execs revealed, six-day farewell for Jimmy Carter starts with all five living US presidents to attend, and a huge tuna sells for millions in Tokyo. Deep Dive: We're fresh into a new year, and you might be feeling like it's time to start building some more long-term wealth. But where do you start, and how much money do you need to get things going? From making the most out of your superannuation to buying shares and knowing when to get into the property market, here’s our straightforward guide to investing this year. To kick off The Briefing’s week-long series on how to start your 2025 right – we’re bringing you Bension Siebert’s chat with Chief Investment Officer at Motley Fool Australia, Scott Phillips. Note: This episode contains general information. Always seek personalised advice from a financial advisor before investing. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E590 · Fri, January 03, 2025
Best of: Dr Karl says OnlyFans can save the planet
In this best of episode of the Weekend Briefing Antoinette Lattouf is joined by Dr Karl. Dr Karl is Australia’s favourite science communicator, with a passion for colourful shirts with the energy of an exclamation mark! He’s a former taxi driver, was a serial university student – studying for 16 years – and is now a much-loved medical personality on radio and TV who has just written a memoir – The Periodic Tale. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Dr Karl unpacks his family’s traumatic journey and Holocaust survival to how he thinks OnlyFans could help climate change. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E589 · Thu, January 02, 2025
Best of: Meet Sonny Rennison, Australia’s first wheelchair ballkid
Headlines: FBI confirms lone actor in the New Orleans New Year’s attack and rules out Vegas connection, bushfires east of Perth claims houses, search continues for possible shark attack victim in SA, and the Pink Test starts in Sydney this morning. Best of Deep Dive: With less than ten days to go until the Australian Open, tennis fever is starting to sweep the nation. As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we're revisiting Bension Siebert’s conversation with now 12-year-old wheelchair tennis champion, Sonny Rennison. In 2024, Sonny made history as Australia’s first wheelchair ballkid. At the time, we spoke with him and one of Australia’s top wheelchair tennis stars, Heath Davidson, about the history-making achievement and the importance of improving accessibility for athletes with disabilities. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E588 · Wed, January 01, 2025
Best of: The Australian doctors offering free surgery
Headlines: Chaos in New Orleans as a truck strikes New Year’s revellers leaving 10 dead, three Virgin Australia staff stuck in their hotel after an incident at Nadi airport, and the LNP claims 10,000 businesses will collapse before the next parliamentary sitting. Best of Deep Dive: A network of volunteer doctors in Australia are stepping up to provide free medical care for Palestinians who have fled Gaza. From performing surgeries on patients with amputated limbs to treating chronic illness, they are filling the gaps where our government has fallen short, largely due to the visas provided for those fleeing not allowing access to healthcare. One of these doctors is Dr Mohamed Amr. He co-founded the Palestinian Australian New Zealand Medical Association (PANZMA) . As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we revisit Antoinette Lattouf’s exclusive conversation with Dr Amr from November last year. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E587 · Tue, December 31, 2024
Best of: How to hack running with world champ Katie Williams
Headlines: All the latest from New Years Eve celebrations across the country. Best of Deep Dive: Run clubs are still trending – they have been called the new dating app, the millennial quarter life crisis, and the cozzie livs gym membership. So if you’ve found yourself lacing up or have signed up for the next fun run in your city - what’s the best way to start running and do it safely? In this episode of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re listening back to Helen Smith’s chat with World Champion sprinter Katie Williams, who gives her advice on how to hit your running goals without causing an injury. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E586 · Mon, December 30, 2024
Best of: How influencers can shape the coming election
Headlines: Sydney set to have more than a million people watching NYE fireworks, heavy rain in Queensland has state emergency services on edge, and the Aussies take seven wickets in the final session to beat India in the fourth test. Best of Deep Dive: Celebrity endorsements seem to be losing their potency when it comes to elections. Despite support from Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga, presidential hopeful Kamala Harris could not find the votes to give her the top job in the recent US election. Does that reflect a gap in the election market about to be filled by social media and influencers? Konrad Benjamin doesn't love the term influencer – but he’s the host and creator behind Punters Politics, a YouTube channel that aims to help “navigate the divisive world of Australian politics on a quest to make it simple for the every day punter”. In this episode of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re listening back to Bension Siebert’s chat with Konrad where they unpack the power of the influencer, and whether they can sway the vote when Australia heads to the polls in 2025. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E585 · Sun, December 29, 2024
Best of: Kochie on the bank of mum and dad
Headlines: Jeju Air CEO accepts blame for crash killing 179, Labor's grip on power is looking shaky, and India will need to pull off the highest run chase in more than a century to win the 4th test today. Best of Deep Dive: Over the next decade in Australia, $5 trillion is expected to move down the generations, with around $2.3 trillion to be given to the children of Boomers, $1 trillion to their grandkids, and $1.7 trillion to charities. The bank of mum and dad is somewhere between the 5th and 9th biggest lender according to the Productivity Commission. In this episode of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re listening back to Sacha Barbour Gatt’s chat with Compare the Market’s Economic Director David Koch to find out what impact this will have on the economy. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E584 · Fri, December 27, 2024
Best of: Scott Morrison’s most awkward interview ever?
In this best of episode of the Weekend Briefing Antoinette Lattouf is joined by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Scott Morrison is the 30th Prime Minister of Australia, lover of chicken curries and author of his new book - Plans For Your Good: A Prime Minister's Testimony of God's Faithfulness Morrison has had his fair share of controversies over the years - Hawaii, his response to COVID and his many ministries. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Morrison opens up about his time as PM, repenting his sins and his impact on Australians. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E583 · Thu, December 26, 2024
Best of: MDMA Freed Kate from her PTSD
Headlines: Two Sydney to Hobart yacht sailors killed, Victorian bushfire update, total fire ban declared in Sydney, and Virat Kohli avoids suspension. Best of Deep Dive: Would you take MDMA to help your mental health? As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting our exclusive chat with *Kate, a patient who has undertaken MDMA-assisted therapy to treat her post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). So what actually happens to you when you take what is usually known as a party drug during a therapy session? This chat was part of our two-part series on MDMA-assisted therapy in October, 2024. Part 1: An Australian clinic is ‘transforming’ lives with MDMA-assisted therapy Part 2: How MDMA freed Kate from PTSD Lifeline 13 11 14 *Not a real name. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E582 · Wed, December 25, 2024
Best of: Luke and Sassy Scott on becoming a parent through overseas surrogacy
There are many ways in Australia to have children if you can’t physically procreate. You can foster or look into adoption - or you can find a surrogate. In Australia, it’s illegal to pay someone to carry a child for you – but nothing is stopping you from paying someone overseas. However, surrogacy isn't without contention or is an easy road. Luke and Scott O’Halloran, otherwise known as Luke and Sassy Scott, are brothers with a massive public profile, with their podcast and TikTok presence amassing a plethora of fans here and overseas. Last year Scott and his partner Marcus decided to become parents via international surrogacy. As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting Bension Siebert’s chat with the comedy-duo where we found out just how complex international surrogacy in Australia is. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E581 · Tue, December 24, 2024
Best of: The new guard of pop music
You might be celebrating Brat Summer, or singing along to the light-sounding-but-heavy-meaning words of Chappell Roan – or maybe you’re just sipping that Espresso with Sabrina Carpenter. Either way, the charts don’t lie - a new intense and complex female-made and focused pop sound is having a renaissance. So what’s the key ingredient for being a female pop star in 2024 and why is it working for some but not for others? As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting Sacha Barbour Gatt’s chat with Nic Kelly, host of The Hot Hits on the Hit Network and LiSTNR to unpack it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E580 · Mon, December 23, 2024
Best of: Is Australia’s worst serial killer living in Byron Bay?
Headlines: Christmas is on hold for Victorian firefighters ready to protect the state, Joe Biden pardons death row prisoners, NRMA issues Christmas road safety warning, and Australia's most famous crocodile has passed away at 90 years old. Best of Deep Dive: Is it possible that there’s a serial killer wreaking havoc along the NSW coast? That’s the question raised by Jeremy Buckingham, Legalise Cannabis Party MP and member of NSW legislative council earlier in the year. In an impassioned address to parliament at the end of October, the MP made the case for the state to take a serious look at 67 missing or murdered women along the NSW north coast between 1977 and 2009. As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting Sacha Barbour Gatt’s chat with Jeremy earlier in the year where he unpacked his claims and laid out why he chose to raise the issue before Parliament. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E579 · Sun, December 22, 2024
Best of: The Truth about Temu
Headlines: Christmas tree light warnings, Victorian bushfire update, airfare charter of rights proposed, and Aussie researchers create injection to reverse blindness. Deep dive best of: Amid a cost of living crisis, who can resist the invitation to “shop like a billionaire” at bargain-basement prices? Online juggernaut Temu is Australia’s most popular free app, offering a vast vortex of low-cost merchandise from fashion and homeware to toys and electronics. But amid the thrilling rush of retail therapy lie some serious questions: Where does this stuff come from and what are conditions like for those at the bottom of the supply chain? As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting Sacha Barbour Gatt’s chat with senior labour rights campaigner at Oxfam, Sarah Rogan to find out more. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E578 · Fri, December 20, 2024
Meet the man digging up Australia's biggest secrets
Richard Baker is one of Australia’s best investigative journalists, who has spent decades chasing stories. The Walkley award winning journo is the host of LiSTNR's Secrets We Keep: Pray Harder, which explores a secretive religious group in Geelong where every aspect of members’ lives are tightly controlled by their hardline pastor. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Richard explains why he doesn't have any social media, what life is like as an investigative journalist, and how dangerous it is for whistle blowers in Australia. Weekend List TO TRY: Vouchers with your private health insurance TO WATCH: Hair Theory by Emma Chamberlain on YouTube TO READ: BBC article 'Being a starlet was difficult': How Shirley Temple saved a Hollywood studio from bankruptcy TO WATCH: Bad Sisters on Netflix Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E577 · Thu, December 19, 2024
The Briefing recaps 2024
We’ve been captivated by the US election, horrified at wars overseas and have marvelled at the Olympics. There’s no doubt 2024 has been another massive year in news. In today’s deep dive, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert talk through the biggest stories of the year and what they’ve meant to us, before looking ahead to what we can expect in 2025. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E576 · Thu, December 19, 2024
Headlines: Gisèle Pelicot, coal mines expanded, LGBTI+ Aussies, Raygun
Headlines: Man in French mass rape case that shocked the world handed 20-year conviction, Albanese government condemned for approving four coalmine expansions, first-ever estimates of LGBTI+ Aussies released and Raygun The Musical will be going ahead! Deep Dive: 'The Briefing recaps 2024' in your feeds right now as a separate episode. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E575 · Wed, December 18, 2024
Ex-vegan: Why long-time plant eaters are going back to meat
Headlines: Penny Wong announces Australian embassy will re-open in Ukraine, Australian crews en route to Vanuatu, NSW Government approves pill testing trial and NASA's stranded astronauts to remain on the ISS until March. Deep Dive: Have you cut meat out of your diet for ethical reasons, only to eventually return to that late-night cheeseburger or pub chicken parma? There are plenty of good reasons for going vegan or vegetarian: the animals, the environment, the climate crisis, health, the cost of a steak – the list goes on. But one in ten Australians is eating more meat this year, or planning to, than in previous years. So why are some Australians turning back to meat and dairy? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks to several former vegans and vegetarians on why they chose to go back to meat, as well as experts on how to get the nutrients you need for health, fitness and muscle growth goals if you plan to go vegan in 2025. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E574 · Tue, December 17, 2024
France, Germany, now Canada: Why are Western governments in freefall?
Headlines: Australia stands ready to help Vanuatu after powerful earthquake, Qantas and Meta to pay massive fines, reactions to Victoria’s new protest laws and Bluey is heading to the big screen. Deep Dive: As 2025 looms, are we watching major Western governments across the world collapse? A possible resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. A vote of no confidence for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. French government almost-shutdown narrowly avoided. What the hell is going on, what are the ramifications be for global stability into the new year, and does this say anything about what is coming our way in Australia and our own upcoming federal election? In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks to Dr. Scott Burchill, honorary fellow at Deakin University, to get his take on what’s causing the sudden wave of change. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E573 · Mon, December 16, 2024
Melbourne Storm has reignited the Welcome to Country debate
Headlines: Bashar al-Assad releases first statement since fleeing Syria, new poll shows Albanese’s disapproval at 50%, Australian teenager and mother hospitalised in Fiji return home and Prince Andrew disinvited from royal Christmas as spy saga deepens Deep Dive: NRL club Melbourne Storm are scaling back Welcome to Country ceremonies and focusing on “action” rather than “words” to improve the lives of First Nations people. Is it the right call for the club to make? Why do we bother to acknowledge country at all – and does doing it distract us from real action institutions can take to fix inequalities between First Nations and non-Indigenous people in this country? Ian Hamm is a Yorta Yorta man and Chair of the First Nations Foundation . He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack if he thinks Melbourne Storm has made the right call, and what impact this might have on other sporting codes and businesses and their relationship to First Nations Australians going forward. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E572 · Sun, December 15, 2024
Saturday Night Live is having a cultural moment. Will it last?
Headlines: Remaining Bali Nine return home, four Australians hospitalised after suspected alcohol poisoning in Fiji, heat wave warnings issued across Australia and Adelaide Zoo welcomes its newest giant pandas. Panda diplomacy deep dive: https://play.listnr.com/podcast/the-briefing/episode/panda-propaganda-why-china-is-sending-us-diplomacy ? Today's Deep Dive: For the first time in a long time, Saturday Night Live is having a bit of a cultural moment. Currently in its 50th season the live sketch comedy show, which over the years has been created by comedy superstars like Will Ferrel, Eddie Murphy, Jimmy Fallon, and Tina Fay, has hit a milestone many dream of. But it hasn't all been roses – in the last decade the show has fought off constant criticism about relevancy, lacklustre casting and jokes, and questions of possible cancellation. What's brought it back to leading the cultural comedy way? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Jon Schneider, the creator and host of podcast Saturday Night Network to explain why SNL is more relevant than ever. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E571 · Fri, December 13, 2024
Narelda Jacobs on identity and her life changing news
Narelda Jacobs is a trailblazer. She’s a Whadjuk Noongar woman, journalist and presenter who’s changing the face of Australian media. Over the past two decades Narelda has worked as a trusted news presenter and is a powerful advocate for First Nations rights, LGBTQIA+ inclusion and social justice. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Narelda opens up about some recent experiences that are both personal and painful tied to the colour of her skin and reveals a surprise of her own. Weekend List TO FOLLOW: Hassan Hassan @hxhassan and Kevork Almassian @KevorkAlmassian on X TO EAT: Christmas brunch ideas tray bakes, savoury croissant and french toast TO BUY: Personalised toiletry bags for Christmas TO WATCH: Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E570 · Fri, December 13, 2024
What’s behind the recent surge in Dungeons and Dragons down under
Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) is blowing up in Australia. The fantasy table-top roleplay game is nothing new – it was first published in in 1974 – but Google Search trends in Australia show searches for DnD have been steadily climbing since about 2016. What’s behind the hype? Should you be picking up DnD in 2025? And if you aren’t keen on the kind of effort involved in playing it, what board games should we instead try playing over the holidays? Justin Halliday is Game Designer for Hero Forge Games. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to explain the growing hype. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E569 · Thu, December 12, 2024
Reflecting on the Lindt Cafe siege, a decade on
Headlines: Coalition to unveil cost of bold nuclear plan, ‘Adult time’ youth justice laws pass Queensland parliament and Donald Trump named Time’s Person of the Year ... again Deep Dive: It has been ten years since the Lindt Cafe siege, which took place on December 15, 2014. Man Haron Monis took 18 hostages and held them for 16 hours in Sydney’s Martin Place. The 16-hour siege ended in the deaths of two hostages – Tori Johnson and Katrina Dawson – as well as the gunman himself. Multiple others involved were injured by gunfire during the raid. In this episode of The Briefing, we interview our very own Antoinette Lattouf, who was a television reporter at the time, and covered the harrowing developments from the scene that day. She joins Helen Smith to recount how the day unfolded, her thoughts on how our perception of terrorism has evolved over the past decade, and why the events of that day will never leave her. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E568 · Thu, December 12, 2024
What can Apple Intelligence do for you?
Apple Intelligence has officially come to Australia. Apple’s AI was first announced back in June, and as of today can be used by hundreds of thousands of iPhone-owning Aussies. But what can it do, and how will it change us? Will it encourage Android loyalists to make the jump, and is it really a gamechanger? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by tech expert and editor of EFTM magazine, Trevor Long to unpack if it's worth the hype. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E567 · Wed, December 11, 2024
Is Hawk Tuah Girl's cryptocurrency a scam?
Headlines: Women launch class action against BHP and Rio Tinto over alleged decades of sexual harassment, Anthony Albanese supports exclusion zones near houses of worship, Saudi Arabia chosen to host FIFA world cup, and HECS balances will be slashed from today. Deep Dive: A viral on the street interview turned Hailey Welch from a normal girl to an internet celebrity overnight. Becoming Hawk Tuah Girl, she has since used her sudden fame and millions of followers to pivot into a podcast, brand deals and merch line. Last week, she started a new venture – creating her own cryptocurrency called $HAWK. The digital coin hit a $490 million market cap shortly after it was launched, but lost 95% of its value within hours. Does this massive depreciation mean it was a scam? And who is to blame for those who lost out when buying into the currency? And how can any of this be legal? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Daniel Gozman, Associate Professor at the University of Sydney, to explain the complex world of crypto and pump and dump schemes. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E566 · Wed, December 11, 2024
Should Raygun get to shut down a comedy musical about her?
Are public figures fair game when it comes to parody and satire? Personally, your answer might shift depending on who that public figure is, while legally, the answers are a little more clean cut. It’s a question being asked following reports the legal team of Rachael Gunn, Australian academic and competitive breakdancer also known as Raygun, had a parody musical on her journey to the 2024 Paris Olympics cancelled ahead of its trial show. Raygun: The Musical, a creation of Aussie comedian Steph Broadbridge, was set to debut in Sydney on Saturday. However, after the venue received a cease-and-desist notice from the break dancer’s legal team – that show was canned. Joining Chris Spyrou on this episode of The Briefing, solicitor Jahan Kalantar explains it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E565 · Tue, December 10, 2024
The politics of a Jewish synagogue fire attack: Part Two
The fire attack against a Jewish synagogue in Melbourne has intensified a battle between our politicians over the meaning of anti-Semitism, and who is responsible for encouraging it in Australia. Meanwhile, many people are struggling to know how to talk about anti-Semitism, Israel or Gaza without fear of saying the wrong thing. In part two of The Briefing’s two-part special episode on anti-Semitism in Australia, Bension Siebert speaks with writer and co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, Alex Ryvchin. Listen to part one here: https://play.listnr.com/podcast/the-briefing/episode/the-politics-of-a-jewish-synagogue-fire-attack-par? Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E564 · Tue, December 10, 2024
The politics of a Jewish synagogue fire attack: Part One
Headlines: PM’s pitch to families ahead of election announcement, Syria’s new PM meets old government officials to aid transition, Telstra fined $3 million for 000 network outage, and two new sounds have been added to Australia’s sound archive. Deep Dive: The fire attack against a Jewish synagogue in Melbourne has intensified a battle between our politicians over the meaning of anti-Semitism and who is responsible for encouraging it in Australia. Meanwhile, many people are struggling to know how to talk about anti-Semitism, Israel or Gaza without fear of saying the wrong thing. In part one of The Briefing’s two-part special episode on anti-Semitism in Australia, Bension Siebert speaks with human rights lawyer and Executive Officer at the Jewish Council of Australia, Sarah Schwartz. Listen to part two here: https://play.listnr.com/podcast/the-briefing/episode/the-politics-of-a-jewish-synagogue-fire-attack-p-1? Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E563 · Tue, December 10, 2024
Why these Aussie tradies are getting their kit off
A group of sexy Queensland concreters have created a the "Sexy Concreters" calendar, featuring 12 Gold Coast tradies posing shirtless in wheelbarrows, pouring iced coffee over themselves and eating meat pies. The calendar was created to raise money and awareness for men’s mental health, with the first print of the calendar selling out in just two hours. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Jesse Stenroos, Mr April and director of the concreting business Conseq Group, and Anthony Savage, the creator behind the project. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E562 · Mon, December 09, 2024
A CEO was killed on the street in New York. Should we be celebrating?
Headlines: Antisemitism taskforce announced as travel warning issued for Jews heading to Australia, Australia fires new Tomahawk missiles for the first time, person of interest interviewed in CEO shooting case and Starbucks Australia posts $5.8 million loss. Deep Dive: A major health insurance company CEO was shot dead on the street in New York City last week, and many are celebrating. A Facebook post by UnitedHealthcare to remember its assassinated CEO, 50-year-old Brian Thompson, received tens of thousands of laugh reacts over the weekend. In the US and in Australia, many cultural commentators have echoed this sense of glee. So who was Brian Thompson, why are so many people happy he’s dead, and what does it say about who we are in the current cultural moment? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert unpacks the reaction with US-born activist and public speaker Azure Antoinette. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E561 · Mon, December 09, 2024
Celebration and fear: Syria's new leadership explained
Rebel forces in Syria captured the capital over the weekend in a move that saw the nation’s president, Bashar al-Assad, flee the country. It comes after a 13-year civil war and over five decades of his family’s brutal autocratic rule. The news has been widely welcomed by those living in the country, who are celebrating liberation – a similar sentiment echoed on the streets back here in Australia. But how did we get here and who steps in now that a dictator has been toppled? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Chair in Global Islamic Politics at Deakin University, Professor Greg Barton to discuss. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E560 · Sun, December 08, 2024
Will coffee prices kill the café scene in 2025?
Headlines: Syrian rebels bring down Assad regime, new poll spells more bad news for Albo and Donald Trump attends the reopening of Notre Dame. Deep dive: The price of a cup of coffee has always been debated, and now, global coffee prices have reached their highest in over 50 years. It boils down to many factors across the industry, including bad weather in Brazil and Vietnam where most of the world's coffee comes from and international trade. So how will this impact the price of our daily cup of coffee going into 2025? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Kirk Pearson, the owner of Project Zero Coffee and the host of It’s Just Coffee the podcast, to explain how it will all impact us here in Australia. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E559 · Fri, December 06, 2024
Noni Hazlehurst on the circus, Play School's mantra and her MeToo moment
Noni Hazlehurst has been a beloved fixture in Australian homes for decades, from Play School to Better Homes and Gardens. In her new memoir Dropping the Mask Noni opens up about her journey to self-discovery and concealing her true self to fit the roles others expected of her. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Noni shares her MeToo moment for the first time when a senior entertainment executive locked her in a room, changing her perspective forever. You can grab a copy of Dropping the Mask from any good book store or online Weekend List TO EAT: Mango and avocado salsa TO WATCH: Nugget Is Dead: A Christmas Story on Stan TO WATCH: Saturday Night Live on Binge TO WATCH: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E558 · Fri, December 06, 2024
Why do all new Christmas movies suck?
Settling in to watch a Christmas movie is one of the hallmarks of the festive season for a lot of us, with titles like Elf, Die Hard and Love Actually usually at the top of the most-streamed list. But does it feel like it’s been a while since we’ve seen a great Christmas movie? Time Out’s list of the ten best ever doesn’t feature a single title from after 2005, which has us asking – have we seen the last of the great Christmas movies? Ash London, radio queen and passionate Chrissy movie advocate joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to discuss. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E557 · Thu, December 05, 2024
Eras Tour exclusive: The wild stats from Taylor Swift's takeover
Headlines: The Chaos in France, new poll shows Peter Dutton on track for major election win, former defence secretary to lead urgent AUKUS review, Melbourne billionaire Adrian Portelli charged over unlawful lottery and you tell us your favourite Christmas movies! Deep dive: Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has become a record-breaking phenomenon – taking on 54 cities across 21 countries over a gruelling 21 months. Swift, considered one of the greatest artists of all time, has been on tour since March 2023, breaking multiple records including the highest-grossing tour ever and the first musician to surpass a billion US dollars in revenue. As the Eras tour wraps up for good in Vancouver this weekend, The Briefing has teamed up with Angel Zhong at RMIT to exclusively unpack every stat and figure from what will inevitably go down in history as one of the biggest music events of our generation. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E556 · Thu, December 05, 2024
You can't wear that! The hidden rules of office fashion
Who should decide what’s acceptable to wear to the office? In the last couple of years, we’ve seen a huge shift in office workwear with experts saying it’s partly because of the pandemic, working from home, social media trends and because of younger generations entering the workplace. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Lauren Sams, fashion editor at the Australian Finical Review, and Employment Lawyer Roxanne Hart to find out who makes the rules around what’s corporate chic and what’s going to send you straight to HR. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E555 · Wed, December 04, 2024
Does Australia have a 'deep state'?
Headlines: Charges laid over Easey Street murders, Aussie primary school students score best ever result in global test, NSW Premier to be referred to corruption watchdog, South Korean lawmakers move to impeach President and the Matildas win 3-1 against Taiwan. Deep Dive: You might have heard the phrase “deep state” in the news about US President-elect Donald Trump recently. He’s promised to dismantle it. But what is the “deep state” and do we have one in Australia? The Briefing’s Bension Siebert speaks with ANU national security expert David Andrews about the shadowy world of the deep state conspiracy theory and what stops Australia’s government from being undermined from the inside. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E554 · Wed, December 04, 2024
The Easey Street murders explained
A man charged over one of Victoria’s longest cold cases, the 1977 Easey Street murders, touched down in Melbourne overnight, after a marathon extradition from Rome. He was arrested in Italy back in September in connection to the alleged murder of 28-year-old Suzzane Armstrong and 27-year-old Susan Bartlett in their Collingwood share house almost 50 years ago. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by host of the Life and Crimes podcast and author of Rule on Crime, Andrew Rule. Andrew's been closely following the case since the 70s. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E553 · Tue, December 03, 2024
The community fighting the Government for clean drinking water
Headlines: Easey Street murder suspect lands in Melbourne after extradition, South Korean Parliament rejects president’s martial law declaration, concerns over ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, Commonwealth Bank urged to rethink $3 cash withdrawal fee, and the most visited Wikipedia pages for 2024 have been revealed. Deep dive: A five-year legal battle is playing out between the NT government and residents of Laramba, an Aboriginal community 205km north-west of Alice Springs, over clean drinking water. The community's drinking water was found to have contained uranium at levels three times the maximum safe level set out in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Daniel Kelly, a solicitor at Australian Lawyers for Remote Aboriginal Rights, to unpack the latest developments. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E552 · Tue, December 03, 2024
Was this Aussie TikTokker cancelled for being honest?
When you think of hard jobs, does influencing or content creation top the list? After a video from the 2024 TikTok Awards went viral, that’s exactly the conversation happening online right now. Content creators were asked if their work is “hard,” with some answers sparking debate and backlash. One of those influencers seemingly in hot water is Veronica B. The TikTokker, who has over half a million followers on the app, joins Chris Spyrou in this episode of The Briefing to unpack whether she believes being an influencer is tough, what goes on behind the scenes, and how she’s handling the wave of hate. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E551 · Mon, December 02, 2024
Inside one of the most dangerous jobs in the world
Headlines: The fallout from Hunter Biden’s pardon, biggest cocaine bust in Australian history sees 13 charged and Australia just sweltered through its hottest spring ever. Deep dive: 2024 has become the deadliest year for aid workers with harrowing risks of humanitarian work laid bare over the weekend. Aid workers from Save the Children and World Central Kitchen were killed in an Israeli Defence Forces airstrike in Gaza, prompting World Central Kitchen to halt operations after it destroyed one of its vehicles and killed three staff members. With Israel’s new legislation banning the operation of the UN’s Palestinian refugee agency in Israel and occupied territories by January 28, what happens to arguably the most oppressed and starving people in the world if aid workers can no longer help? Australia-born Roger Hearn is the UNRWA's Director of Relief and Social Services, and he joins Antoinette Lattouf in this episode of The Briefing. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E550 · Mon, December 02, 2024
Did Pokémon GO catch us all in a scam?
It’s been eight years since Pokémon Go took the world by storm. But was the global phenomenon just a big data mining scam? By the end of its launch year in 2016, over 200 million people had downloaded the game and today 90 million users are still trying to catch em’ all. But it's come to light that the game’s developers, Niantic, have been using its player’s data to train “the next frontier of AI”. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou chats with freelance games journalist Harry Kalogirou to find out how this happened, whether users are justified in feeling scammed and what this means for the future of AI. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E549 · Sun, December 01, 2024
Why you're paying more tax than older Australians on the same income
Headlines: What’s going on Syria right now, Trump threatens 100% tariffs on China and Russia, house prices in Sydney and Melbourne tumble and a Melbourne woman has had a deadly tiger snake slither up her leg while driving. Deep dive: Young Australians pay more tax than older Australians on the same income. On this episode of The Briefing, we explain how the tax burden came to fall so heavily on younger people and why, for the first time, we might be in a position to do something about it. Bension Siebert speaks to Independent Wentworth MP Allegra Spender who has spent more than a year creating a green paper, working with experts, business groups, academics, and trade unions to explain the problem and what we could do to solve it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E548 · Fri, November 29, 2024
Sex! Are you doing it right? Pleasure activist Georgia Grace can help
Georgia Grace AKA Gspot knows a lot about sex. She’s a pleasure activist, the co-founder of sexual wellness company Normal and an expert in somatic sexology, embodied counselling and trauma informed approaches. The Modern Guide to Sex is Georgia’s latest book where she breaks down taboos, myths and the sexual shame society holds. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Georgia explains the importance of pleasure and gives her take on Bonnie Blue. Weekend List TO EAT: Avo on toast roast with labneh and za'atar TO READ: I Am Pilgrim by former journalist and screenwriter Terry Hayes TO TRY: We listen and we don't judge trend on TikTok TO WATCH: Fisk season 3 on ABC iView Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E547 · Fri, November 29, 2024
Is Australia to blame for the unhinged Wicked press tour?
Whether you’re a fan or not, you can’t deny the absolute juggernaut that has been the Wicked movie press tour. After kicking off in Australia earlier this month, the cast of the Broadway adaptation have been going viral while chatting with the media and public about the film. Headlined by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the press tour has copped some flak for being cringey and over the top, amid viral videos of reporters crying in interviews to ridiculous platitudes about “holding space” for the lyrics of the movie’s title track Defying Gravity. On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Justin Hill, host of LiSTNR’s The Streaming Service, to break down the insanity of the Wicked press tour and explain why it’s got people so riled up. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E546 · Thu, November 28, 2024
Should a convicted murderer be allowed access to IVF? Part Two
Alicia Schiller is a convicted murderer – and the Victorian Government has given her permission to start IVF treatment during her sentence. She stabbed her roommate to death in 2014 and she’s currently serving a 16-year-sentence in a maximum-security prison in Victoria. The decision has provoked outrage from the family of her victim, from politicians and members of the public. If she gets pregnant, it’s being reported that she plans to raise the child with her in prison for the first five years, then hand the child over to her parents while she serves what's left of her sentence. In part two of this special two-part episode of The Briefing, Victorian Liberal MP Brad Battin argues the Victorian Government should stop Schiller having a child. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E545 · Thu, November 28, 2024
Should a convicted murderer be allowed access to IVF? Part One
Headlines: Australia approves world first social media ban for kids, Israel fires on southern Lebanon after ceasefire deal, top trends for 2025 revealed. Deep Dive: Alicia Schiller is a convicted murderer – and the Victorian Government has given her permission to start IVF treatment during her sentence. She stabbed her roommate to death in 2014 and she’s currently serving a 16-year sentence in a maximum-security prison in Victoria. The decision has provoked outrage from the family of her victim, from politicians and members of the public. If she gets pregnant, it’s being reported that she plans to raise the child with her in prison for the first five years, then hand the child over to her parents while she serves what's left of her sentence. In part one of this special two-part episode of The Briefing, Australian barrister and criminal justice spokesman with the Australian Lawyers Alliance Greg Barnes joins Bension Siebert to argue why Schiller has every right to access IVF. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E544 · Thu, November 28, 2024
Does RFK Jr have a point about fluoride?
In Australia, community water fluoridation programs have been underway since the 1950s. It’s a practice endorsed by the World Health Organisation as an effective and safe way of reducing tooth decay. But earlier this year Donald Trump's pick for Secretary of Health, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., promised remove fluoride from water supplies, a move that Trump has endorsed. RFK Jr, often labeled a vaccine skeptic and conspiracy theorist, claims fluoride is linked to conditions like arthritis, cancer, and lowered IQ. It’s a case his supporters say is strengthened by a recent US-government report which found a tentative link between high fluoride levels and reduced neurodevelopment in children. So, is it really safe and is it time we give it a rethink? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Dr Brad McKay, GP and author of ‘Fake Medicine: Exposing the wellness crazes, cons and quacks costing us our health’ to unpack it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E543 · Wed, November 27, 2024
‘Warfare is shifting’: How influencers will shape the upcoming election
Headlines: 37 bills listed as “priority” on final scheduled sitting day, Lidia Thorpe suspended from the Senate, US to start work immediately on new Gaza ceasefire proposal and the TikTok Awards 2024 were held in Sydney overnight. Deep Dive: Next year’s election will be the first in Australia’s history where there’ll be more Millennials and Gen Z than boomers at the ballot box. Who will be influencing their vote? Celebrity endorsements seem to be losing their potency – despite support from Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga, presidential hopeful Kamala Harris could not find the votes to give her the top job in the recent US election. Does that reflect a gap in the election market about to be filled by social media and influencers? And is that a good or bad thing? Konrad Benjamin doesn't love the term influencer – but he’s the host and creator behind Punters Politics , a YouTube channel that aims to help “navigate the divisive world of Australian politics on a quest to make it simple for the every day punter”. In this episode of The Briefing, he joins Bension Siebert to unpack the power of the influencer, and how much of a say he thinks they will have on the 2025 vote here in Aus. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E542 · Wed, November 27, 2024
Lawyer X: Could a bunch of gangland criminals soon be free?
There’s been a major development this week for the appeal hopes of one of the country’s most notorious criminals. Tony Mokbel, who became a household name during Melbourne’s gangland wars in the early noughties, could soon walk free, after a judge ruled his lawyer had perverted the course of justice by feeding information to the police in the lead up to his arrest. So how likely is it that his case, and a number of others, will be overturned? Veteran crime journalist Adam Shand joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to explain. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E541 · Tue, November 26, 2024
Black Friday is big business. Here’s how you can make the most of it
Headlines: Eight Laos hostel staff detained over suspected methanol deaths, Benjamin Netanyahu urges Israeli ministers to approve Hezbollah ceasefire deal, an update on the bills Labor is trying to pass this week and Drake takes feud with Kendrick Lamar to court. Deep Dive: Are you gearing up to spend your hard-earned dollars this Black Friday? It's nearly impossible to miss the flood of aggressive marketing from retailers ahead of the Black Friday sales this week. But is it the sale of the year – or just the best marketing ploy ever? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert unpacks why this longstanding American shopping event has become so big in Australia, and how you can you avoid getting sucked in by marketing and snatch a genuine bargain. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E540 · Tue, November 26, 2024
A no-bullshit explainer on international student caps and the economy
Australia’s top politicians spent much of last week fighting over what will be a major issue in the upcoming election: migration. Specifically, international students, and how many of them should be allowed to study here each year. Both Labor and the Coalition agree on one thing – they think we're bringing in too many, and it’s putting too much pressure on housing and infrastructure. But despite that agreement, government legislation to limit their numbers was rejected in the Senate last week. The uncertainty is putting universities across the country in a difficult position as they scramble to organise enrolments for the new year, and provide clarity for existing students. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert give you a no-bullshit explainer on international student caps, and unpack the arguments being made from both major parties as we approach the next federal election. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E539 · Mon, November 25, 2024
‘We will not give up on you’: The Bali Nine might be coming home
Headlines: The Greens back Labor’s housing bill, Israel to vote on Hezbollah ceasefire, Google, Meta and X react to social media ban, and Wicked enjoys a bumper weekend at the Aussie box office. Deep Dive: The Bali Nine were a group of nine Australians convicted for attempting to smuggle 8.3kg of heroin out of Indonesia in April 2005. It sounds like a deal with the Indonesian government might be underway – but what would repatriation look like, why would we want them in Australia, and why has this group been such a big deal for so long? Bishop Tim Harris is a long-time advocate for the release of the Bali Nine, having visited members of the group at Kerobokan prison and working with their families back home. He joins Sacha Barbour Gatt for this episode of The Briefing to explain why he thinks it’s time for the remaining members to return home. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E538 · Mon, November 25, 2024
20 hours and an amputated leg. What went wrong on the Franklin?
White water rafting has gone very wrong for a Lithuanian man in the fast-flowing Franklin River in Tasmania over the weekend. After accidentally wedging his leg between rocks, the man was trapped for over 20 hours, partially submerged in the river, while rescuers attempted to release him, staving off hypothermia with hot meals and warm drinks in thermoses. Eventually they concluded the only way to get him out was to amputate the man’s leg at the knee. How does something like this happen? If you’re thinking of doing any adventure sporting over the summer or on your next holiday, should you think twice if considering white-water rafting? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Bruce Baxter, owner and founder of Paddle Sports Australia and author or The Ever Varying Flood: Franklin River Rafting Guide to unpack what he thinks went wrong. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E537 · Sun, November 24, 2024
'Pink Cocaine' was found in Liam Payne. Now it’s in Australia
Headlines: Massive few days ahead in Canberra for final sitting week of 2024, 170 arrested in Newcastle port protest and Mary Fowler steps back from Matildas citing mental fatigue Deep Dive: It’s called 'Pink Cocaine', but it usually contains zero cocaine, and it’s been linked to a series of deaths – including that of One Direction star Liam Payne. So what is it, really? And if you come across it on a night out over the weekend, what do you need to know about it, and how to keep yourself safe? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Dr Amie Hayley from the International Council of Drugs, Alcohol and Traffic Safety (ICADTS) to find out. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E536 · Fri, November 22, 2024
Osher Günsberg: the 'pain actually was in my head'
Osher Günsberg is a household name in television and entertainment across generations. But in recent years, his work advocating for mental health support, sharing his struggle with a raft of psychiatric conditions, alcoholism and more recently chronic pain has taken centre stage, culminating in a new hosting gig for a documentary about living with chronic pain. In this intimate chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Osher explains his obsessions with saunas, whether he Googles himself, and for the first time, shares his views on the heart-breaking humanitarian crisis in Gaza. You can watch Osher Gunsberg: A World Of Pain at SBS on Demand now Weekend List TO TRY: Finch: Self-care pet on any app store TO READ: The Ladies' Midnight Swimming Club by Faith Hogan TO LISTEN: Spotify Ai DJ X TO LISTEN: Playboy by Fireboy DML Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E535 · Fri, November 22, 2024
What if I'm autistic? | Supporting the neurodivergent in our lives
Tom always thought he was autistic but was never diagnosed, until he sought out a definitive answer. Turns out he was right. How will his life change as a result? This is the final episode of The Briefing's five-part series on neurodiversity, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Tom to discuss his diagnosis, what it means to him, how he thinks it will impact his future, and if he intends to change his life in any way. This series is aimed at informing and supporting people who believe they, or someone they know, is on the autism spectrum but never found out and made in partnership with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre. Listen to Part One here , Part Two here , Part Three here , and Part Four here . You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here , and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E534 · Fri, November 22, 2024
BONUS: Are you a psychopath?
Are we all just a bunch of psychopaths? Jon Ronson has made a career talking to people living life on the extreme and unpacking what makes us normal – or not. As we begin the wrap-up for 2024, the global community is taking stock of where we sit as a society, and if we’re better or worse than before. What does someone like Ronson make of it all? Have we become more psychopathic as a global community, or have we become too comfortable about using the term? In this special bonus episode of The Briefing, he joins Sacha Barbour Gatt in the midst of his Australian tour to explain why he’s touring the country to explore if psychopaths rule the world in 2024. You can buy tickets to Jon’s tour here . Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E533 · Thu, November 21, 2024
Methanol killed an Aussie backpacker. Can you tell it's in your drink?
Headlines: Fifth person dies of methanol poisoning in Laos, ICC issues arrest warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, 1500 Woolworths warehouse workers strike indefinitely, and an Aussie tv personality has helped wrangle a snake off a plane in WA! Deep Dive : A 19-year-old Australian teenager has died, and another remains in a critical condition in hospital after consuming drinks in Laos suspected of containing methanol. The family of Bianca Jones said in a statement released to media on Thursday that “it is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news that our beloved daughter and sister, Bianca Jones, has passed away”. Jones’ best friend, Holly Bowles, remains in a critical condition in Thailand, while four others are also suspected to have died from the mass poisoning – two women from Denmark, an English woman and a man from the US. The Australian Government has issued a warning following the incident, urging people to be alert to the risks when travelling, particularly with spirit-based drinks like cocktails. After such a tragic result, many are asking – how and why is methanol getting into people’s drinks? What does it do to the body? And what can you do to keep yourself safe next time you head overseas? In this episode of the Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by forensic pathologist David Ranson, to discuss why methanol poisoning is more common than you might think. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E532 · Thu, November 21, 2024
What if I'm autistic? | What now?
Tom has discovered in his late twenties he’s on the autism spectrum. While Tom had always suspected he was autistic, he’s now had his suspicions confirmed - a story echoed by individuals and families across the country. So how do people on the spectrum navigate the workplace – and what about relationships, both romantic and platonic? In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In Part Four, we’re joined by Professor Adam Guastella from the centre and Nicole Rogerson, founding CEO and director of Autism Awareness Australia to discuss work, friendship and love on the spectrum. Listen to Part One here , Part Two here , and Part Three here . You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here , and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E531 · Thu, November 21, 2024
BONUS: Inside the ARIAs and what it takes to succeed
Yesterday was the 38th Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) awards. It’s Australia's musical industry night of nights, where artists from across the country are recognised for their success here and abroad. Troye Savon, Royel Otis, and 22 first nations artists were all given a nod for their impact on the industry this year. There's no shortage of talent across the island – from Kylie, to Tame Impala, to ACDC, Australian music has for decades made international charts, club anthems, and worldwide superstars. But we are also an island – and awards nights like the ARIAs can reflect just how tough the music industry is a space to succeed. Earlier this year it was reported that around half of musicians in Australia earned less than $6,000 in 2023, forcing many to quit the industry. So what does it take to succeed in the Australian music industry? On this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith hit the ARIA’s red carpet, asking Budjera, GrentPerez, Surely Shirely, Zindzi & The Zillionaires, Ripley Alexander , Kaylee Bell and Van-Anh Nguyen to share their reflections on the industry. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E530 · Wed, November 20, 2024
Should we be ditching X for Bluesky?
Headlines: Social media ban legislation to be introduced to parliament today, US closes embassy in Ukraine amid warnings of ‘significant air attack’, Hawthorn settles court case with previous Indigenous players, and who won big at the ARIA's last night? Deep Dive: Celebrities, institutions and regular people have been abandoning X, formerly Twitter, and joining rival Bluesky in recent weeks. Bluesky is one of a handful of short text social media alternatives that have had some success competing since Elon Musk bought X in 2022. But X still dominates the space. So is Bluesky a real, better alternative, or are those making the switch and proclaiming the death of X just virtue signalling? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Crikey’s associate editor and internet culture and tech reporter Cam Wilson to get his verdict on if Bluesky is living up to the hype, and if it will survive. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E529 · Wed, November 20, 2024
What if I'm autistic? | Tom's diagnosis
Tom always suspected he was autistic, but had never been formally diagnosed. Now he knows the answer. In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In Part Three, we join Tom as he learns if he is on the autism spectrum, what he makes of the result, and what it means for his future. We're also hear from Professor Adam Guastella from the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre as he tells Tom what he learned from Tom’s assessment. Listen to Part One here and Part Two here . You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here , and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E528 · Tue, November 19, 2024
Is your neighbour 3D printing a gun?
Headlines: Ukraine fires first US missiles at Russia, Female CEOs in Australia paid $170,000 less, Sydney train network to shut down for three days over union dispute, and a Doomsday fish washes up on California beach. Deep Dive: 3D printing guns is on the rise in Australia. The guns, made using a combination of plastic 3D printed parts and metal components, are unregistered weapons, known as ‘ghost guns’. Over the last 12 months these weapons have been seized in every state and territory in Australia, prompting a national wide task force. But with access to making them only increasing, is attempts to halt their production and spread across the country a runaway train? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Skeeve Stevens, a futurist and expert in the weaponisation of technology, to break down how easy it is to print a gun, and what he thinks law enforcement and the government can do to stop it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E527 · Tue, November 19, 2024
What if I'm autistic? | Sit in on an assessment
Tom always suspected he was autistic, but had never been formally diagnosed. What does finding that out look like? In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In Part Two, we travel to Professor Adam Guastella's clinic at the Brain and Mind Centre to sit in on Tom’s assessment, learn how and why neurodiversity is so varied, and how one who suspects they are autistic navigates that complexity. Listen to Part One here . You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here , and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E526 · Mon, November 18, 2024
What we know about charges laid against Alan Jones
Headlines: Australian’s want review of Aukus following Trump, Kremlin slams US over Ukraine missile decision, Parliamentary inquiry stops short of recommending social media ban, and Sam Kerr and partner Kristie Mewis are having a baby. Deep Dive: 83-year-old Alan Jones has been charged with 24 offences against eight alleged victims spanning two decades, following a lengthy investigation by police into alleged indecent assault and sexual touching of young men by the former broadcaster. For the past nine months Strike Force Bonnefin, run by the State Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad, has been investigating the allegations, which yesterday resulted in Jones being charged with 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault, nine counts of assault with an act of indecency, two counts of sexually touching another person without their consent and two counts of common assault. He was granted conditional bail and will face Downing Centre Local Court on December 18. Jones strenuously denies all accusations laid out against him. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Kate McClymont, chief investigative reporter at The Sydney Morning Herald to break down the arrest, what we know, and what we can expect will happen next. Note: Following the publishing of this episode, police have added two extra charges on Alan Jones, who is now accused of indecency against nine alleged victims over nearly 20 years. The former broadcaster faces 26 charges including indecent assault and sexual touching - some involving victims under his professional authority. Jones' lawyer insists he’ll fight the allegations. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E525 · Mon, November 18, 2024
What if I'm autistic? | Autism 101
29-year-old radio producer Thomas Denham has always suspected he’s autistic. But how can he be sure? In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In this episode, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Professor Adam Guastella from the Brain and Mind Centre to find out what autism is, what common traits people with autism display and what someone ought to do if they feel they, or someone they know, shows some of those signs. Nicole Rogerson, founding CEO and director of Autism Awareness Australia also talks us through what an autism diagnosis can mean for the families and friends involved. You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here , and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E524 · Sun, November 17, 2024
Crypto is surging again. Can it make you money?
Headlines: Certain Australian businesses to be forced to accept cash payments, Joe Biden lifts ban on Ukraine using US missiles to strike inside Russia, PM won’t detail emissions plans until next year and Kamala Harris’ Uber Eats bill revealed. Deep Dive: After a very mixed year, the world’s best-known cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, is surging in value. What exactly is going on with crypto right now? Can the current surge continue? And how should you think about the risks and rewards of an asset that’s made a lot of people very rich, but made a lot of others lose, and lose big? On this episode of The Briefing, we hear from two experts on cryptocurrency to help us understand the wild world of crypto and where it’s at right now. Bension Siebert speaks with Bryce Leske from Equity Mates Media and Dr Cynthia Cai, senior lecturer at Macquarie University’s Department of Applied Finance. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E523 · Sat, November 16, 2024
BONUS: This Australian family's Trump exit strategy becomes a reality
Australian citizens living in the United States who aren't supportive of a Trump presidency are considering their options to leave the country. Last week, The Briefing brought you the stories of three Australians living in US swing states, who shared how they were feeling in the leadup to the US election. With Donald Trump now officially taking the top job, one of those Australians, Chris Mead, is planning her exit strategy. She joins Bension Siebert again on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the difficult decisions she and her family are planning to make following the result of the US election. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E522 · Fri, November 15, 2024
Top chef Ben Shewry on misogyny, critics and hot chips
Ben Shewry is one of Australia’s top chefs who’s behind the world renowned restaurant Attica. He started working at a local restaurant in New Zealand at just 10 years old after sending out letters pleading his case to become a chef. In his new memoir, Uses For Obsession, Shewry exposes the misogyny, harassment, and toxic culture ingrained in hospitality. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Ben reveals why he wrote a whole chapter on hot chips and how one of the most telling things about a person is the way they treat waitstaff. Weekend List TO TRY: Airyday Skinscreens Mineral SPF50+ TO WATCH: Rivals on Disney+ TO WATCH: Yellowstone season 5 on Stan TO LISTEN: Off Menu podcast ep with Sebastian Stan Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E521 · Fri, November 15, 2024
Inside Netflix's massive gamble on Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson
This weekend legendary boxer Mike Tyson is stepping into the ring with Youtuber-turned-influencer-turned-boxer Jake Paul. The fight is being held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas – but for those who can’t make it in person, the event is set to be broadcast live on Netflix – a first for the streaming service. It's been postponed, hyped, and hated – and will be making a massive amount of money for those involved. Is this about to be the event of the century? Or is an almost 60-year-old former boxing champion fighting an influencer a sad state of affairs for the once-glorious sport of boxing? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Combat Sports Journalist at The Daily Telegraph and Code Sports Brendan Bradford to unpack what he thinks of the whole affair. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E520 · Thu, November 14, 2024
How banning kids from social media will affect you
Headlines: Labor looks to crack down on billionaires in Aussie elections, fears of a trade war overshadow APEC summit and Aussie scientists invent possible solution for fatbergs. Deep Dive: The federal government has introduced a world-first plan to ban kids younger than 16 from accessing social media. Depending on who you ask, it's either an election-winning policy that addresses the anxieties of mums and dads across the country - or a poorly thought out, privacy-stealing power grab. The ban has received bipartisan support from the government - so what's the big deal if it comes into law? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou unpacks what the ban will mean with 17-year-old Leo Puglisi, founder of 6News, tech and political commentator Stilgherrian, and Libertarian MP David Limbrick. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E519 · Thu, November 14, 2024
You’re hired! Trump’s team for the next four years
Over the past 48 hours, Elon Musk and more than a dozen high-profile loyalists have been picked for key jobs in incoming president Donald Trump's administration. Every new name has made international headlines, and offers a valuable insight into how Trump plans to shape America and the world when he returns to the White House in January. On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert break down the key names announced so far, and what you need to know about them. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E518 · Wed, November 13, 2024
Corporate Social Responsibility is bullshit
Headlines: Trump and Biden meet at the White House, new duty of care laws for social media companies, High Court rules a Catholic diocese not liable for abuse and two Aussie cities rank in the top ten in the world for the cleanest air. Deep Dive: Corporations shape our world and while they can drive economies, they also have considerable influence over our environment and society. One way some businesses try to leave a positive mark is through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The United Nations and the Australian Human Rights Commission champion CSR’s potential, but not everyone is buying in. Employment lawyer Josh Bornstein argues that it might be nothing more than a façade. Josh joins Chris Spyrou on this episode of The Briefing to share why he believes CSR is nothing more than a marketing tool that distracts from real accountability. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E517 · Wed, November 13, 2024
How rats are exposing organised crime
We’ve all heard of sniffer dogs, but what about sniffer rats? Did you know there’s a program that is training and using the critters to hunt down materials being used in the illegal wildlife trade in Africa? In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Kate Webb, who helped launch the project, to learn more about this amazing initiative and plans for the future of detection rats. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E516 · Tue, November 12, 2024
Trump, COP29, climate: Here's why we're not doomed
Headlines: Decision on Trump’s hush money case delayed again, Anglican church’s global leader resigns over child sexual abuse scandal, Parents and principals urged to help with social media ban, and CHOICE names the worst Australian products and services of the year. Deep Dive: As delegates from more than 200 countries meet to negotiate the future of global climate action this week at COP29, US president-elect and climate change denier Donald Trump is casting a long shadow. The world’s scientists say the window to avert the worst of the climate crisis is closing fast. So does four more years of Trump mean we’re basically doomed? Dr. Wesley Morgan is a research associate with the Institute for Climate Risk and Response at the University of New South Wales and a fellow with the Climate Council of Australia. He tells Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing that, in his view, there’s lots to feel hopeful about. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E515 · Tue, November 12, 2024
Inside a crisis call: How Lifeline saved Michael's life
New statistics out from Lifeline this week have revealed a surge in contacts made to the crisis line in 2024. More than 110 thousand calls for help have been made to the helpline since January with money worries dominating conversations, with October 7th was the busiest day of the year. We’re told all the time to reach out to Lifeline if we need help, but what is it actually like to call a mental health crisis line? What do you talk about? What sort of help can they offer? And will it actually make a difference? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Michael, someone who has been there, to find out. We’ve withheld Michael’s full name for privacy reasons. Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E514 · Mon, November 11, 2024
Australian bosses love to spy on their staff
Headlines: Labor admits there’s more work to do on cost of living, Trump makes more appointments, three in five Aussie renters never expect to own a home, police escort for Adelaide elephant and your thoughts on free uni and 4B! Deep Dive: Is your boss spying on you right now? Last month, Woolworths was under fire for its practice of intensely monitoring the productivity of some of its workers, reportedly using technology and algorithms to assess their minute-by-minute productivity. We’ve heard similar criticisms of retail giant Amazon and rideshare giant Uber – but what you might not know is that office workers are far from safe from this kind of intrusive surveillance. So-called ‘bossware’, software that monitors and reports employee performance using tools such as mouse tracking and web browsing surveilling, are becoming more common. So how are you being spied on right now? Peter Holland is a professor of human resource management from Swinburne University. He joins Benion Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack how it all works. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E513 · Mon, November 11, 2024
The 4B movement is going viral after Trump’s win. What is it?
In the days since Donald Trump won the US election, you might’ve seen the term ‘4B’ gaining traction on social media. Born in South Korea, 4B is a feminist movement in response to strictly held gender roles in the country that sees women swearing off men altogether. With this new political reality, will 4B find its way into Western society? And what would that actually look like? Earlier this year The Briefing spoke with Su-Kyoung Hwang, a Senior Lecturer in Korean Studies at the University of Sydney, to unpack the movement as it gained vitality in the region. In case you missed it, listen back as she takes Sacha Barbour Gatt through 4B and why it is so popular in South Korea, as the movement goes viral in the US. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E512 · Sun, November 10, 2024
Can Australia afford free university?
Headlines: Trump sweeps all battleground states, EV sales drop across Australia and a massive weekend in Aussie sport. Deep Dive: Student debt reforms are leading the Albanese government's 2025 election promises. The key changes would reduce existing student debt by 20% and raise the income threshold for repayments. However, some say these measures don't go far enough, with calls for free higher education back in the spotlight. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou digs into these proposals, asking what they mean for students, graduates, and the broader economy. Joined by ANU Professor Andrew Norton and The Motley Fool Australia's Chief Investment Officer, Scott Phillips - we explore whether these reforms are a step forward and whether Australia's economy and tax system could handle making higher education free. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E511 · Fri, November 08, 2024
Mel Buttle is the internet's favourite mum
Mel Buttle is one of Australia’s favourite comedians and self-declared number one fan of the Matildas. You might recognise her as the creator behind Australia's favourite online mum character 'Lyn' or from the latest season of Taskmaster. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Mel opens up about her struggles with severe bullying, ongoing homophobia, and feeling rejected by her wife’s family at what should be a time of blissful newlywed joy. Mel is currently touring her hit comedy show Not Here to Put Socks on Centipedes after sell-out performances at Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Sydney and Brisbane Comedy Festivals. Weekend List TO WATCH: Joan on Stan TO TRY: McoBeauty fragrance mist salted caramel & pistachio TO TRY: Tell Her She's Dreamin': A memoir for ambitious girls by Simone Amelia Jordan TO WATCH: Chicken Shop date with Amelia Dimoldenberg and Andrew Garfield Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E510 · Fri, November 08, 2024
Why Consent Can't Wait: Jude Bolton
Most Australians agree that consent is key to healthy sexual experiences. But what does consent mean? What does it look like in action? Before we can talk to our kids about consent, we need to talk to each other. In this special series, made in partnership with the Australian federal government as part of its Consent Can’t Wait campaign, The Briefing invites iconic Australians to unpack how they feel about consent, what their understanding of it is, how they're having conversations about it with loved ones, and unpacking some of the myths about consent that we can all fall victim to. In part four, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Jude Bolton, cohost of Triple M's Rush Hour in Sydney and former Sydney Swan, and author and Founder of Teach Us Consent Chanel Contos to hear their thoughts on consent in 2024. Check out your understanding of consent, and get help learning how to talk about the topic at Consent.gov.au. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E509 · Thu, November 07, 2024
What a survivor of sexual violence thinks of Bonnie Blue
Bonnie Blue has been making nation headlines around her plan to invite quote un quote “barley legal” young men attending schoolies on the gold coast to have sex and film it for content on her wildly popular only fans account Harrison James is one of many who thinks Bonnie’s actions are exploitative. He’s a survivor of sexual violence and now works as an activist speaking to consent, sexual violence and the safety of children and young people. On this episode of the Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Harrison to explain why he called the hotel Bonnie Blue is planning to stay during schoolies and if her visa should be cancelled. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E508 · Thu, November 07, 2024
‘I'm not a predator’: OnlyFans' Bonnie Blue defends Schoolies sex plan
Headlines: Joe Biden’s first address since Trump win, Optus fined $12 million for outage, National Cabinet meeting today to consider social media ban and Australia’s biggest frog count gets underway! Deep dive: Bonnie Blue is a 25-year-old Only Fans creator inviting “barely legal” young men attending schoolies on the Gold Coast to have sex and film it for content, sparking a serious and complex debate about consent. Bonnie stresses that those involved must be over 18, have an ID with them, sign two consent forms and take a breathalyser test, but there are calls for her visa to be cancelled. On this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by the adult content creator to share her justifications for her Schoolies plan and what she thinks of people calling her a predator. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E507 · Thu, November 07, 2024
Malcolm Turnbull explains what Trump 2.0 means for Australia
What does Donald Trump returning to the White House mean for Australia? One man with a deep insight into this question is former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who Trump in during his first term. Speaking with the Briefing’s Bension Siebert, Turnbull gives his advice on how current PM Anthony Albanese should deal with him, reveals what Trump is like behind closed doors, and explains what Trump 2.0 means for Australia’s next election, our economy and the world. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E506 · Wed, November 06, 2024
Donald Trump has won. What now?
Donald Trump is the 47th President of the United States. While it will take days to finalise the vote count, the Republican nominee currently holds 292 electoral votes to Kamala Harris’ 224. He is also on track to win the national popular vote. It's being lauded by key Republicans as "the greatest political comeback in the history of America." But how will another Trump presidency impact global conflicts, immigration, women's rights and conversations around climate change? In this special episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Chris Spyrou walk you through what you need to know. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E505 · Wed, November 06, 2024
Massive turnout, bomb threats, too close to call: the US votes
The results have been streaming in as voters deliver their verdict on Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, as they battle to become the next president of the United States. Trump and Harris have been doing everything possible up until the final moments urging people to get out and vote. Meanwhile, there have been bomb threats in the key swing states of Pennsylvania, Georgia and Arizona, and fake FBI accounts online have been calling the integrity of the vote into question, and been wild weather in various places - from heavy rain across several states, to snow, to the threat of wildfires in California. When can we possibly expect to learn who will be the next president of the United States? To take us through the day’s drama, and what we can take from the results so far, Bension Siebert is joined by journalist Dave Levinthal live from the ground in Washington DC to bring you the latest. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E504 · Tue, November 05, 2024
Taking you inside the Qantas Chairman’s Lounge
Headlines: Voting is underway in the US election, WA Premier fails to disclose Qantas Chairman’s Lounge membership, Prince William and Robert Irwin team up for the environment and 87% of Briefers said they weren’t participating in Melbourne Cup day. Deep Dive: Politicians and their free memberships to the Qantas Chairman's Lounge have been in the news all this week. But what actually goes on inside these luxurious spaces, and where is the line between reasonable luxuries for high-level politicians and potentially corrupting influence? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Joe Aston, journalist and author of The Chairman’s Lounge, which kicked off the scandal. We also hear from Independent Senator David Pocock on why he gave up his membership – and why he accepted it in the first place. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E503 · Tue, November 05, 2024
'We have an exit strategy': Meet the Australians in US swing states
The US election might look batshit crazy from afar – but what does it feel like if you’re witnessing the madness unfold live on the ground? On this episode of the Briefing, we take you away from the polls, campaigns and the candidates, and into the homes of three different Australians living in US battleground states right now. Each of their lives will be directly affected by the outcome. As millions cast their ballots across the US to choose the next President of the United States tomorrow, what do they think of being a part of this moment in history? Bension Siebert finds out. This is part of The Briefing’s US election special – catch up on part one, where we explain the Electoral College and how you become President, here . Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E502 · Mon, November 04, 2024
Melbourne Cup: A race horse trainer vs. MP Georgie Purcell
Headlines: Kamala Harris promises to end the war in Gaza, Independent MPs hand back their Qantas memberships, Australia's first commercial rocket to launch into space and tributes flow for Quincy Jones. Deep Dive: Should we still be racing horses? As the warmer spring weather rolls in, it also brings on a major series of events in the country’s sporting calendar – the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival, and most notably, the Melbourne Cup. While horse racing is a year-wide event, the Melbourne Cup inevitably spotlights the increasingly contentious issue of whether we should be racing horses at all. This Melbourne Cup Day, The Briefing brings you both sides of the debate, so you can make up your own mind. Helen Smith is joined by Katherine Coleman, assistant trainer at Moody Racing, and MP Georgie Purcell, Australian politician and member of the Animal Justice Party, to ask what they both want you to know about the horse racing industry in Australia today. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E501 · Mon, November 04, 2024
The Electoral College: this is how you become a US president
The race for the White House is almost over - but how does it all work again? This week, millions of Americans will cast their vote in the country’s election. The result will be historical and is likely to shape democracy for the US and the world. Before the counting begins, The Briefing brings you the first part of this week’s special US election coverage. Today, Chris Spyrou is joined by Matt Bevan, host of ABC's If You’re Listening, to explain everything you need to know about the Electoral College, voting in the states, and how this political system, that is very different from our own, works. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E500 · Sun, November 03, 2024
The reason why these Australian doctors are offering free surgery
Headlines: Kamala Harris’ SNL appearance may have violated TV political rules, Anthony Albanese’s promise to young voters and Sydney hosts the world premiere of Wicked. Deep Dive: A network of volunteer doctors in Australia are stepping up to provide free medical care for Palestinians who have fled Gaza. From performing surgeries on patients with amputated limbs to treating chronic illness, they are stepping in where the government has fallen short, in part due to visas provided for those fleeing not allowing access to healthcare. One of these doctors is Dr Mohamed Amr. He is the co-founder of the Palestinian Australian New Zealand Medical Association (PANZMA) . In this exclusive conversation, he joins Antoinette Lattouf in this episode of The Briefing to talk about PANZMA’s work, the devastating suffering he’s witnessed, the hope his work is providing to those in need, and what more he wants the government to do. Despite repeated inquiries from The Briefing, DFAT has failed to disclose how many Palestinian refugees are granted access to healthcare or provide a comparison of the visa types granted to Israeli and Ukrainian refugees. In stark contrast to the comprehensive support extended to Ukrainians escaping violence, the majority of the 1,300 Palestinian patients are only on visitor visas. These visas strip them of the right to access health benefits, study, or work, leaving them unable to secure even the most basic medical care. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E499 · Fri, November 01, 2024
Can Socceroos legend Craig Foster be silenced?
Craig Foster is a massive overachiever. He was Australia’s 40th Socceroos captain, he’s been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia and is a fierce human rights advocate. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Craig reveals why he declined an invitation to meet the King, what his nightmare blunt rotation is and how he chooses what human rights causes to champion. Weekend List TO LISTEN: Coldplay We Pray TO WATCH: The Office Australia on Amazon Prime TO TRY: Vaseline eye mask DON’T WATCH: Lonely Planet on Netflix Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E498 · Fri, November 01, 2024
Why Consent Can’t Wait: Jess Rowe
Most Australians agree that consent is key to healthy sexual experiences. But what does consent mean? What does it look like in action? Before we can talk to our kids about consent, we need to talk to each other. In this special series, made in partnership with the Australian federal government as part of its Consent Can’t Wait campaign, The Briefing invites iconic Australians to unpack how they feel about consent, what their understanding of it is, how they're having conversations about it with loved ones, and unpacking some of the myths about consent that we can all fall victim to. In part three, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Jess Rowe, accomplished journalist, author, public speaker and host of LiSTNR's The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show , and author and Founder of Teach Us Consent Chanel Contos to hear their thoughts on consent in 2024. Check out your understanding of consent, and get help learning how to talk about the topic at Consent.gov.au. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E497 · Thu, October 31, 2024
Is Australia's worst serial killer living in Byron Bay?
Headlines: Over 1000 large companies didn’t pay tax in Australia last year, 60 million Americans have already voted, and Russia has fined Google more money than there is in the entire world. Deep Dive: Is it possible that there’s a serial killer wreaking havoc along the NSW coast? That’s the question that’s been raised by Jeremy Buckingham, Legalise Cannabis Party MP and member of NSW legislative council. In an impassioned address to parliament, the MP made the case for the state to take a serious look at 67 missing or murdered women along the NSW north coast between 1977 and 2009. But is this callout alarmist? Do these accusations risk opening old wounds for the hundreds of friends and family linked to each disappearance and death? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt unpacks the claims, and asks the MP why he’s chosen to raise this issue now. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E496 · Thu, October 31, 2024
How to survive a snake bite - from someone who did
Do you know what to do if a snake bites you? Snake season is upon us, and Australia is living up to its international reputation for alarming wildlife in unexpected places. An unusually high number of snakes are being spotted in suburban homes in Australia right now – so if you come into contact with one over the coming months, what should you do? And if you’re bitten, what’s the steps you need to take to ensure your survival? On this episode of the Briefing Bension Siebert speaks to snake handler Mark Pelley about his own life-threatening experience of getting bitten by a tiger snake, why there are so many snakes around right now, and what to do if you come across one – or if you or a pet is bitten. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E495 · Wed, October 30, 2024
Finally, a positive housing story. Australia's mortgage wars explained
Headlines: Anthony Albanese says he never called Alan Joyce for flight upgrades, UN Security Council warns Israel against banning UNRWA, and Harris and Biden walk back ‘garbage’ comments. Deep Dive: Are Australia’s mortgage wars back? After a period of corporate coordination, banks have started making moves and competing hard for your money – happy news for mortgage holders, and people hoping to enter the property market alike. But will things get better, or is this just a temporary reprieve? And who should you listen to if you're unsure of what to do? On this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith speaks with Alec Renehan from Equity Mates to find out what that means for anyone with a mortgage and how long he expects the fighting to last. The information in this podcast is for general information only. It should not be taken as constituting professional advice, and your financial circumstances might be different and have different needs. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E494 · Wed, October 30, 2024
Does the government deserve our trust after COVID?
A long-awaited and lengthy report by an inquiry looking into Australia’s COVID response was handed down yesterday. It found that while state and federal governments nailed the early response to the threat of the virus, tough restrictions, poor communication and a lack of consideration of our human rights eroded public confidence and trust. On today’s episode of The Briefing, we’re digging deeper into how Aussies feel now about politicians and the government, and whether it puts us in danger should we face a pandemic again. Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with CEO of Public Health Association of Australia, Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin to hear if he thinks we can repair what has been lost. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E493 · Tue, October 29, 2024
How MDMA freed Kate from PTSD
Headlines: Key takeaways from Australia’s first COVID response inquiry, 90% of federal pollies are members of Qantas’ Chairman’s Lounge and 50 Cent knocked back $3 million USD to perform at Trump's New York rally. Deep Dive: Would you take MDMA to help your mental health? In this two-part special, The Briefing is taking an exclusive step into one of the only clinics in Australia offering MDMA-assisted therapy to help treat those experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - with some astonishing results. What actually happens to you when you take what is usually known as a party drug during a therapy session? In part two, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with *Kate, a patient at the Pax Centre who has undertaken MDMA-assisted therapy to treat her PSTD and shares how the treatment gave her a sense of peace “she’s never experienced before”. Listen to part one here . Lifeline 13 11 14 *Not her real name for privacy purposes Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E492 · Tue, October 29, 2024
The plan for locking up 10-year-olds
Youth crime has been in the spotlight nationally in recent years, with stories of teenage offenders dominating mainstream news bulletins. It’s sparked a groundswell of support for political parties that are promising to be tough on the issue, and it’s worked, with the Liberals having decisive wins in the Northern Territory and Queensland in recent weeks. With promises of locking up kids at younger ages, enforcing adult time for adult crimes and even looking at periods of solitary confinement for teen offenders; do these politicians have it right? In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speak with lecturer in criminology, Dr Joel McGregor from Swinburne University, to discuss the changing conversation around young criminals. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E491 · Mon, October 28, 2024
An Australian clinic is 'transforming' lives with MDMA-assisted therapy
Headlines: The fallout from Donald Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally, calls grow for Senate inquiry into Albanese-Joyce relationship, NATO confirms North Korean troops deployed in Russia and a new survey reveals the sexual diversity of Aussie students. Deep Dive: Today, The Briefing is doing MDMA. In this two-part special, we take an exclusive step into one of the only clinics in Australia offering MDMA-assisted therapy to help treat those experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - with some astonishing results. How exactly does a drug most would traditionally associate with the party scene help those suffering through a mental health crisis? And why can it work in place of other, more traditional treatments? In part one, Bension Siebert and Sacha Barbour Gatt speak with Co‑founders of the Pax Centre, Dr Jonathan Laugharne and Claire Kullack, to explore why the treatment they’re providing can offer such a profound breakthrough for people’s mental health. Lifeline 13 11 14 Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E490 · Mon, October 28, 2024
The tallest mountain in the world is getting taller
Moving mountains isn’t meant to be an easy feat. But did you know that mountains can, and are currently, getting taller? It's true – and researchers have found Mount Everest is one mountain which makes that list. The mountain has risen an extra 15 to 50 meters over the last 89,000 years. This works out to be around 2 millimeters per year – which might not sound like much. But what impact could this have on its surroundings over the years? And how does it happen? Mark Quigley is an Associate Professor of Earthquake Science at the University of Melbourne. He joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E489 · Sun, October 27, 2024
18 family members, one day. A family’s loss in Lebanon
Headlines: David Crisafulli claims victory for LNP in Queensland, Anthony Albanese defends Qantas upgrades, US politics wrap and American Airlines are trialling new tech to bust line cutters at airport gates. Deep Dive: Since Israel’s assault on Lebanon has escalated, schoolteacher Nahed Mawassi and her daughter Zainab have been anxiously clinging to hope for their family’s safety, while enduring anguish from afar in Australia. Then came the unthinkable news via WhatsApp. Without any warning, the Israeli Defense Forces bombed a residential building in Aitou, a Christian-majority town over 120 kilometers from the Israeli border. The building was a temporary home to four generations of their closest relatives. In an instant, 18 family members – displaced from southern Lebanon a year prior – were killed. Among the victims were a 6-month-old baby and a 95-year-old great-grandmother. In this exclusive episode of The Briefing, Nahed and Zainab speak with Antoinette Lattouf, sharing their devastation. They call on the Australian government to urgently grant humanitarian visas for four surviving relatives, miraculously pulled from the rubble, and have a stark message to the Albanese government on the impact of the devastation on a quarter of a million Lebanese Australians. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E488 · Fri, October 25, 2024
Happy Hour's Lucy and Nikki need you to know this about your 30s
Lucy Jackson and Nikki Westcott first meet as grid girls and connected immediately, but little did they know their friendship would turn into one of the most popular podcasts in Australia. The duo is behind the podcast Happy Hour , where they chat about everything from relationships, to sex, running a fashion brand and being a woman in your 30s. Lucy and Nikki have described their friendship together as like a marriage and when they started their fashion label Jagger & Stone back in 2018, they only became more intertwined. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Lucy and Nikki explain why being in your 30s is better than your 20s and how they balance being business partners and besties. Weekend List TO DO: Breathwork workshop TO WATCH: Inside Out 2 on Disney Plus TO READ: The Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros TO WATCH: Deadloch on Amazon Prime Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E487 · Fri, October 25, 2024
Why Consent Can't Wait: Matt OKine
Most Australians agree that consent is key to healthy sexual experiences. But what does consent mean? What does it look like in action? Before we can talk to our kids about consent, we need to talk to each other. In this special series, made in partnership with the Australian federal government as part of its Consent Can’t Wait campaign, The Briefing invites iconic Australians to unpack how they feel about consent, what their understanding of it is, how they're having conversations about it with loved ones, and unpacking some of the myths about consent that we can all fall victim to. In part two, Bension Siebert is joined by Matt Okine, comedian, author and host of Matt & Alex - All Day Breakfast , and ambassador and youth advocate Daniel Principe to hear their thoughts on consent in 2024. Check out your understanding of consent, and get help learning how to talk about the topic at Consent.gov.au. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E486 · Thu, October 24, 2024
How you measure the death toll in a war zone
Headlines: Australia in spat with China over racism and climate change, BRICS leaders call for ceasefire, Revelations about Rudd and Gillard deal in new political memoir, and what are the top Halloween costumes for 2024 according to Google? Deep Dive: Israel claims the number of people killed in Gaza – the steadily rising and horrific number we hear on the news just about every day – is inflated. Others say true number of people killed is far more than what’s being reported. On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Professor Michael Spagat, chair of Every Casualty Counts, who explains how deaths in Gaza and other active warzones are verified. He makes a passionate case for acknowledging the individual humanity of everyone who dies in war, rather than thinking of them as a number on a page. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E485 · Thu, October 24, 2024
What the Constitution says about Lidia Thorpe's protest
Senator Lidia Thorpe made international headlines when she shouted at King Charles, rejecting the monarch’s sovereignty and accusing him of genocide, in Parliament House this week. The Gurnai Gunditjmara and Djab-Wurrung woman has since claimed she did not really swear allegiance to the late Queen Elizabeth’s heirs, as in King Charles, but to the Queens’ “hairs”. Senator Thorpe has rejected calls for her to resign after she disavowed – however absurdly – her oath of office. But several real questions remain: What does the Constitution have to say about all this? Can Senator Thorpe be forced from parliament? Is it fair to ask a First Nations person to pledge allegiance to the monarchy? What about all those MPs that want Australia to become a republic? On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert dives into all of these questions with Luke Beck, Professor of Constitutional Law at Monash University. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E484 · Wed, October 23, 2024
Why North Korea is sending troops to fight against Ukraine
Headlines: Lidia Thorpe says she didn’t swear allegiance to the King, terrorist attack in Turkey leaves four dead, Xi and Modi hold first formal talks in five years, Coles and Woolies deny tricking customers with dodgy sales, and the sun has hit peak solar energy! Deep dive: International intelligence last week revealed North Korea had sent between 10,000 and 30,000 of its own troops to Russia, to bolster its invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine’s president says this signals the start of a world war, but is that true? And what does this new development mean for the conflict and international relations? In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with geopolitical expert Dr Keith Suter to find out. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E483 · Wed, October 23, 2024
How Queensland's election will impact the rest of Australia
Sometimes, what happens in one part of Australia says lot about the direction of the country as a whole. Right now, that’s exactly what seems to be happening in Queensland, as the state’s voters head to the polls this weekend. Will the state be the latest in a swing towards more conservative politics in Australia? Archie Milligan is a LiSTNR journalist based in Queensland. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing, as Labor vies for a fourth term in government, and we ask how the results might impact the rest of the country. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E482 · Tue, October 22, 2024
Killer Charm: A grandmother, a love quadrangle and a brutal murder
Headlines: Royals wrap up Australian tour, over 20 world leaders meet with Putin at BRICS summit, former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO arrested on sex trafficking charges, the Murray River named in a global top travel list, and a Cockatoo has been rescued from a Sydney Coles after a month trapped inside. Deep dive: Few crimes in Australia in recent years have been as shocking as the murder of Bruce Saunders, who was fed into a woodchipper on a property north of Brisbane in 2017. A new LiSTNR exclusive investigative podcast, released today, has uncovered details about the woman behind the death, Sharon Graham, including how she convinced a man to kill Saunders, and another to help in the coverup. How did she become the kind of person capable of such a crime? Were there signs this was going to happen and did anyone miss them? Tara Cassidy is a journalist and host of Crime In Focus: Killer Charm. She joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the story behind this new investigative podcast series, and how reporting on it has impacted those touched by the death of Bruce Saunders. Listen to Crime In Focus: Killer Charm exclusively on the LiSTNR app, click here: https://play.listnr.com/podcast/crime-in-focus/episode/01-the-accident-killer-charm Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E481 · Tue, October 22, 2024
Can we trust US election polls?
America is heading to the polls on Wednesday, November 6, to decide between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris for the presidency. With polls showing a razor-thin race, it raises a critical question: can we trust them? In 2016, polling failed to predict Trump’s stunning victory. Have things changed? Are polls more accurate now, or should we be sceptical? In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert breaks down the state of election polling with US political journalist, polling expert and host and producer of the FiveThirtyEight Politics podcast, Galen Druke. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E480 · Mon, October 21, 2024
Is a sports club the last acceptable place for misogyny?
Headlines: Lydia Thorpe and the royals, Meta and Google could face ‘big tech tax’ under Labor plan, Moldova narrowly votes in favour of joining the EU and an Italian surfer has been killed by a swordfish in a freak accident. Deep dive: Another week, another story of misogynistic behaviour in sport. Last week 13 Greater Western Sydney (GWS) players were slapped with sanctions, following their decision to dress as “controversial couples” for the club’s end-of-season function. Players dressed in costumes referencing the September 11 terrorist attacks, and Josh Fahey dressed as the former NRL player Jarryd Hayne, performing what the AFL described as “inappropriate acts” on a sex doll. Several players, including Fahey, copped multi-match bans, and captain Toby Greene was among those hit with significant fines. But is all this condemnation from the code ultimately futile? As the dust settles on yet another indecent like this in a major sporting code, it is time to admit there’s always been a place for misogyny where male sports stars get together behind closed doors? Marnie Vinall is a sports reporter at ABC Sports. She joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack what happened, and if she thinks things will ever change. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E479 · Mon, October 21, 2024
Women wait longer for the bathroom. The Government wants to change that
How long you might have to wait for a bathroom in public spaces looks set to change in Australia. The Australian Building Code Board wants businesses to provide 1.8 times the toilets for women than they provide for men to help shorten the queue. But why is the line for women’s bathroom almost always longer than the line for men’s? And what is some of the thinking behind changing how many are available to access? On this episode of the Briefing, public toilet expert Katherine Webber joins Bension Siebert to explain how the plan would work, and how we design these public spaces with equality and accessibility in mind. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E478 · Sun, October 20, 2024
The real cost behind a cheap bottle of milk
Headlines: King Charles and Queen Camilla kick off royal tour, As many as 87 people have been killed in Israeli airstrikes on northern Gaza, ACT election, Elon Musk giving away $1 million US to Trump supporter everyday until the election and an airport in New Zealand has introduced a time limit on hugs. Deep Dive: How much should you be paying for a bottle of milk? More than a decade on, there are fears a second round of milk wars might be coming our way. In 2011 the Australian dairy industry went toe-to-toe with our national supermarket giants over how much they should be charging for a bottle of milk at the checkout. In recent weeks, the cost of milk in major Australian supermarkets has gone backwards for the first in a long time – with Coles and Woolworths reducing the price of its generic fresh milk last month by 5 cents, to $1.55 per LR. Supermarkets are clearly reading the room of a cost-of-living crisis that is impacting consumers shopping in their stores daily, and when almost everyone is finding it tough, it’s difficult, as a consumer, to argue against paying less for something as essential as a bottle of milk. What do those in the industry think of the squeeze? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Australian Dairy Farmers Association President Ben Bennett, and former dairy farmer Adam Jenkins to explore what they think the impact of prices lowering might be. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E477 · Fri, October 18, 2024
Sharon Johal is the role model Australian TV needs
Sharon Johal is playing the first turban wearing Sikh character in Binge’s award-winning TV drama The Twelve. As an Indian-Australian woman in entertainment she’s constantly paved paths that had previously been closed off - and her journey hasn’t always been easy. On this episode of The Weekend Briefing, she joins Antoinette Lattouf to talk about her latest project, the impact on her career since calling out the racism she endured when she was on the set of Neighbours, and her experience on reality TV show The Block – which Sharon says almost broke her. Weekend List TO DO: ShopBack app TO WATCH: Starting 5 on Netflix TO WATCH: That’s So Raven (on TikTok or TV) TO EAT: Vegetable Pasta Bake Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E476 · Fri, October 18, 2024
Why Consent Can't Wait: Carrie Bickmore
Most Australians agree that consent is key to healthy sexual experiences. But what does consent mean? What does it look like in action? Before we can talk to our kids about consent, we need to talk to each other. In this special series, made in partnership with the Australian federal government as part of its Consent Can’t Wait campaign, The Briefing invites iconic Australians to unpack how they feel about consent, what their understanding of it is, how they're having conversations about it with loved ones, and unpacking some of the myths about consent that we can all fall victim to. In part one, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Carrie Bickmore, Gold Logie winning television host and co-host of the Carrie and Tommy Drive Show, and ambassador and youth advocate Daniel Principe to hear their thoughts on consent in 2024. Check out your understanding of consent, and get help learning how to talk about the topic at Consent.gov.au. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E475 · Fri, October 18, 2024
BONUS: Why has the world reacted so strongly to Liam Payne’s death?
Former One Direction star Liam Payne was yesterday found dead following a fall from a hotel’s third floor in Argentina's capital Buenos Aires. The 31-year-old's death was sudden and shocking to many fans, with an instant outpouring of grief over the news leading to vigils around the world. The circumstances surrounding his death, and public behaviour leading up to yesterday’s events have also sparked questions, commentary and debate, including anger at popular celebrity gossip site TMZ posting a now-deleted picture partially showing Payne’s dead body. But why does the global community react so strongly to the death of someone most of us don’t know? And do normal people with no connection to Payne deserve to demand private and intimate details about how and why he died? Host of LiSTNR’s The Streaming Service Justin Hill joins Helen Smith on this bonus episode of The Briefing to unpack our reaction to the news, and what it says about us. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E474 · Thu, October 17, 2024
The Royal debate: a Monarchist vs a Republican
Headlines: Liam Payne’s cause of death revealed, Hamas leader killed say Israeli authorities, AFL bans 13 GWS players over end-of-season party, and the Royals are coming! Deep dive: King Charles and Queen Camilla are landing in Australia tonight for a five-day visit. It’s the first time since 2018 Australia has played host to a royal visit, and the first time since 2011 a sitting monarch has toured down under. Inevitably when a royal comes to town, the debate about whether we should become a Republic rears its head. So, what do the two sides say today on the eve of the royal visit? Today on The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt hears the key arguments from a monarchist and a republican. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E473 · Thu, October 17, 2024
Why abortion is back on the national agenda
Abortion is back in the headlines in Australia. In South Australia overnight parliament narrowly rejected a bill that would have forced women seeking a late term abortion to instead be induced into labour. And in Queensland, Opposition Leader David Crisafulli has refused to say whether his MPs would get a conscience vote on abortion laws, if he wins next week’s election. This renewed debate in Australia is a quiet echo of the loud roar over in the United States, where abortion will be a deciding factor for many in next month’s presidential election. So why have the politics of abortion suddenly had a resurgence in this country? In this episode, Bension Siebert speaks to South Australian woman Tayla-Jane Jackson, who needed a late term abortion, about her personal experience. We also hear a powerful argument from Dr Nisha Khot – Vice President of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists – on why women need access to abortion care at any stage of a pregnancy, and her reflections on the debate that seems to be back in Australia. Lifeline 13 11 14 Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E472 · Wed, October 16, 2024
What a 'consequence of success' means for life expectancy
Headlines: Australia’s fertility rate hits record low, 50 aid trucks have entered the north of Gaza, ACT Opposition Leader apologises for flipping the bird at journalist and Jerry Seinfeld walks back comments about the left ruining comedy. Deep Dive: With the speed at which technology and medicine is developing – electric cars, rockets to Mars, new and improved vaccines – you might have started imagining a world where humans might find a way to live forever, or at least for a very, very long time. But the commonly held idea that the life expectancy of humans is only going to keep increasing is false, according to new analysis. In fact, most kids born today won’t make it to 100. Professor Jay Olshansky analysed life and death data from the last 34 years – and he thinks we’ve reached the peak of how long people can live. On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with the epidemiology professor about his research, and why not living to 100 could actually be a good thing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E471 · Wed, October 16, 2024
Is this Victoria's Secret's last attempt at saving its reputation?
The Victoria's Secret fashion show, in all its glitz and glamour, is officially back after a nearly six-year hiatus. Featuring a live performance from Cher, and supermodels from the decades including Kate Moss, Tyra Banks, Adriana Lima all hitting the runway, it was the once iconic, now controversial, runway show’s big return. The last Victoria's Secret show in 2018 and was surrounded by controversy. An interview with the show’s former chief marketing officer, Ed Razek, who dismissed ideas of integrating transgender and plus-size models “because the show is a fantasy”. Using the word “transsexual,” an outdated and offensive term to describe transgender models, led to a sales hit and a market share drop, and the brand barely survived. Will this new version, with the aim to “reflect who we are today”, work? In this episode of the Briefing, Helen Smith, is joined by model and actor Milo Hartill to explain if this version of Victoria's Secret is new-and-improved, or hitting the same old problematic tropes that caused its downfall in the first place. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E470 · Tue, October 15, 2024
What happens if Israel attacks Iran’s nuclear facilities?
Headlines: Dynamic pricing to be banned, at least 40 killed as Israeli air strikes pound the Gaza Strip, US politics wrap, Socceroos draw with Japan. Deep Dive: The war in the Middle East has escalated significantly in recent days. Israel is now fighting on several fronts. Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, Gaza – and now it’s preparing what could be a major assault on Iran. The United States has sent around 100 troops into Israel to operate a missile defense system. The Australian Government has updated its travel warnings, advising any Australian in Israel to get out while it’s still safe to do so. This comes as many have seen some of the most horrific footage of real human suffering in our lifetimes – on social media images of people in hospital beds under tents in Gaza in the process of being burnt alive as people nearby watch on, helpless is impossible to ignore. Jen Parker is a navy veteran of more than 20 years and expert associate at the National Security College at the Australian National University. She joins Bension Siebert to give us an update on where everything stands and what might happen next. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E469 · Tue, October 15, 2024
Novichok is being used to kill: In perfume, on phones and umbrellas
Novichok is in the news again. An inquiry currently underway in the UK is looking into the 2018 death of 44-year-old woman Dawn Sturgess who sprayed herself with a bottle of perfume that turned out to be laced with the deadly nerve agent. Novichok is an incredibly powerful poison implicated in a series of murders over decades spritzed onto common items like umbrellas, phones and door handles. Where did this incredibly powerful poison come from – and how exactly does it kill you and who has been using it and why? Doctor Ian Musgrave is a senior lecturer at the School of Biomedicine at the University of Adelaide. He joins Bension Siebert to unpack the toxicology behind the headline. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E468 · Mon, October 14, 2024
China’s economy is slowing, how will it impact us?
Headlines: Labor's preparing to ban debit card fees, Federal Government to change visa pathways for Palestinians, a class action could be coming for Ticketmaster and Live Nation over dynamic ticketing and Donald Trump slams biopic ‘The Apprentice’. Deep dive: A strong Chinese economy has long been essential to Australia’s economic health and for decades its growth has been nothing short of remarkable. But has years of over-spending, excessive consumption, and poor investment decisions caught up with Beijing? With faltering growth, China recently introduced a series of economic stimulus measures aimed at stabilising its economy. So, just how severe is the situation and should Australia be looking to diversify its trade relationships? In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Dr Angela Jackson, lead economist at Impact Economics and Policy to break down the current state of China’s economy and what it means for Australia Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E467 · Mon, October 14, 2024
Meet Optimus, the robot Elon Musk wants to look after your kids
Elon Musk has introduced Optimus, Tesla’s new humanoid robots, to the world and has made some ambitious claims about their uses in the not-too-distant future. Viral videos of Optimus robots making drinks, dancing and chatting to attendees at the launch event have sparked questions around the humanoid's autonomy. But this past week has been a massive one for Elon Musk, with SpaceX's successful docking of Starship rocket booster marking an engineering milestone, which many thought was impossible. In this episode of the Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by tech journalist James Hennessy to unpack how these robots work and when they’ll be hitting the market. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E466 · Sun, October 13, 2024
Why you should write your own obituary
Headlines: Coalition leading in Newspoll, King Charles comments on Australia becoming a Republic ahead of visit, QLD nuclear plebiscite, Christopher Columbus was likely Spanish and Jewish. Deep Dive: Kelly McMasters has written her own obituary every year since she was 12 years old. An obituary is usually written by a dedicated obit journalist or writer and includes key facts about a person’s life – it's essentially how they will be remembered. In this episode of The Briefing, Kelly reveals what she’s learnt from writing obituaries and what makes it to the page. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E465 · Fri, October 11, 2024
Khaled Beydoun: The US Law Professor taking on Western media on Gaza
Meet the American law professor who’s visa was in question earlier this week after speaking at a Mosque in Sydney. Khaled Beydoun, who is of Lebanese, Egyptian and Palestinian heritage, has a staggering 2.5 million Instagram followers and has become a major source of trusted news on war on Gaza and the broader regional conflict. In this exclusive interview, Khaled sits down to share his insights on the past year of violence, the powerful voices of Palestinian journalists on the ground, and the risks that come with challenging confronting western media narratives. In chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Khaled delves into the significant impact that Muslim and Arab voters in the U.S. could have on the upcoming election. FULL QUOTE FROM HIS TALK ON OCTOBER 7 "It's a good day and we've got to mark some of the good news that comes about, that we oftentimes neglect," “Today is not fully a day of mourning, today is also a day that marks considerable celebration, considerable progress and in some respects, considerable privilege. The level of global literacy around what's taking place in [Palestine] has exponentially risen." Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E464 · Fri, October 11, 2024
Australians are a scammer’s dream
Scammers are calling Australians ‘easy prey’ because they are considered wealthy and trusting. An ABC investigation found that perpetrators of these highly organised and sophisticated operations believed that unlike American law enforcement, the Australian Federal Police just won’t go after them – so is that true, and if so, why? In this episode of the Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by cyber security expert and former AFP detective, Nigel Phair to explain what makes Australians the perfect targets. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E463 · Thu, October 10, 2024
As hurricanes devastate the US, will Kamala Harris' media blitz backfire?
Headlines: Hurricane Milton death toll rises, China to lift Australian lobster restrictions, latest statistics on how we’re dying in Australia revealed, Princess Kate's first official engagement since finishing chemo and the Socceroos beat China in their World Cup qualifier clash last night. Deep Dive: Kamala Harris has done very few media interviews since replacing Joe Biden as the Democratic nominee for president – but she launched a “media blitz” this week. It comes at a time when the polls show Harris and former US President Donald Trump effectively tied, with less than a month to go before the election. On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert interviews the Nine Network’s US correspondent Johnathan Kearsley to find out how it went and what to expect in the final stretch of the campaign. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E462 · Thu, October 10, 2024
Has Australia had its football moment?
Football is Australia’s most played team sport – with 1.7 million participants across all genders and ages. But professionally, it feels like we’re not making a splash. The Matildas exited the Paris Olympics much earlier than expected and the Socceroos have had a shocking start to their world cup qualifiers that continue tonight against China in Adelaide. In the last few months – both national teams have been found new coaches and with structural issues in the A-Leagues creating what some have branded “a talent drain,” is there any chance of it getting better? In this episode of The Briefing Chris Spyrou is joined by sports journo and cohost of LiSTNR’s Willowtalk and Footy Talk League Adam Peacock to unpack it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E461 · Wed, October 09, 2024
To spit or not to spit - when handing your DNA over might harm you
Headlines: Fugitive dad and three kids spotted for the first time in three years in New Zealand, amendments to Labor's international student cap, Fox proposes new Presidential debate date and a Nepalese teen breaks record by summitting world’s 14 tallest peaks. Deep dive: Finding out your genetic history can be as easy as spitting into a test tube. Since the mid-2000s take take-home DNA kits have become more accessible here in Australia – with participants getting results back within weeks. But what happens when our genetic information ends up in the wrong hands? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Dr Katie Hasson from the Centre for Genetics and Society to explain the dangers of data breaches and what happens when users have their genetic information stolen and sold on the dark web. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E460 · Wed, October 09, 2024
Can Charli XCX save Australia's music festival industry?
Brat summer is officially coming to Australia. Superstar singer Charlie XCX will headline Laneway in 2025. The excitement is palpable – but the story of the last few years of music festivals in this country has not been a good one, with countless examples of big-ticket headlining artists dropping out at the last minute. The cost of living is hitting organizers and punters alike, and there has been a clear, industry wide slump in ticket sales. So, with today’s big announcement, there is an important question to music fans across the country – can we put our trust in music festivals anymore? And how do we know that this latest, massive headliner, is a sure thing? On this episode of The Briefing, Triple Js Music News Producer Courtney Fry joins Helen Smith to shine some light on the state of the industry right now, and if she thinks the promise of Charlie playing in Australia will become a reality. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E459 · Tue, October 08, 2024
Oasis has rejected dynamic ticket pricing
Headlines: Anthony Albanese issues second apology over Tourette's comment, Florida is bracing for the impact of Hurricane Milton, the supermarket milk wars could be back and the first trailer drops for 'How to Make Gravy'. Deep dive: How much is a ticket actually worth? Yesterday, Oasis announced Australian dates for their massive 2025 reunion tour – and in news that will likely make fans very happy, the band announced there would be no dynamic pricing for the Australian leg, following backlash from fans hoping to attend their UK dates who were made furious by the model when tickets went on sale in the region. But online prices that surge at times of peak demand are only getting more common – from gigs to sporting events, to booking a flight or an uber. Are we stuck with dynamic ticket pricing? Or is the fan backlash strong enough for event promoters to think twice? Dr Georgia Carrol is an expert in fan culture has a PhD in fan and celebrity studies from the University of Sydney. She joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to explore the impact of dynamic ticket pricing here and overseas. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E458 · Tue, October 08, 2024
Can social media make our mental health...better?
73% of young people are turning to TikTok, YouTube and Instagram for mental health support, according to a new report by ReachOut who surveyed over 2000 people between the ages of 16 and 25 about how they use social media to find mental health advice and information. But how safe is this practice - especially when young people are turning increasingly to socials as a replacement for professional help? And what can be done to improve transparency when as little as 2% of medical information on TikTok is factual? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by one of ReachOut’s youth advocates, Sina, to unpack the key findings of the report and whether or not the government’s social media ban is a tenable solution. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E457 · Mon, October 07, 2024
Bill Shorten says protestors should have permits. Is he right?
Headlines: Lebanon repatriation flight touches down in Sydney, Australia to protect 52% of its oceans, Kamala Harris has launched a media blitz and Crumbl Cookies is coming to Australia. Deep Dive: This week senior government minister Bill Shorten argued that if people want to protest, they should have to get a permit first. It’s the latest in a series of moves by politicians to limit protest in this country – but gathering thousands of people to protest an issue they’re angry about can be a risky business. So are permits to protest a sensible public safety measure? Or one small step in a slow retreat from democracy we’re seeing here and in other Western democracies Anastasia Radievska is a protest rights campaigner at the Australian Democracy Network. She joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to give her take on the perceived value, and potential harm, of making permits for protests standard practice. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E456 · Mon, October 07, 2024
Twice displaced: A Palestinian perspective on October 7
It’s been one year since the October 7th attacks today. 365 days on, what reflections do we have on conflict, justice, the role of social media and the failings of western leaders and international law to bring an end what human rights groups describe as an unfolding genocide? On this episode of The Briefing we tell the story through the eyes of a Palestinian, who is also part of the Listnr family. Antoinette Lattouf is joined by twice displaced Palestinian and LiSTNR producer Lem Zakharia to share her reflections on October 7th, one year on. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E455 · Sun, October 06, 2024
Surviving Hamas as a hostage: A Jewish perspective on October 7
Headlines: It’s been another horrific 24 hours in the Middle East as thousands gather for pro-Palestine protests across Australia. Elon Musk has been slammed for joining Trump in Pennsylvania and in the NRL the Penrith Panthers have won their fourth-straight Premiership, beating Melbourne Storm 14-6. Deep Dive: The world is today marking one year since the horrific October 7 attacks on Israel. More than 1100 people were killed when Hamas militants poured over the border from Gaza, attacking neighbourhoods and the Nova Music Festival. A further 240 people were taken hostage, and more than 115 are still unaccounted for. On this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Jewish Australian Dan Monheit, whose cousin Margalit Moses was kidnapped from a kibbutz in Israel a year ago today to share his reflections on the ordeal, on the impact the event has had on his family and community, and the resulting conflict that continues. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E454 · Fri, October 04, 2024
Lucinda 'Froomes' Price just wanted to be hot
Lucinda Price (AKA Froomes) turned her internet personality into a full time gig and her debut book All I Ever Wanted Was to Be Hot unpacks it all. The debut author knows how much it takes to be ‘hot’ and has dipped her toe into all facets of the Australian media landscape. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Lucinda reveals just how much her quest to be attractive cost her and how her eating disorder was misdiagnosed for years. If you need help or support for an eating disorder or body image issue, please call Butterfly’s National Helpline on 1800 334 673 or e-mail support@butterfly.org.au Weekend List TO EAT: Generational cooking TO WATCH: Kaos on Netflix TO EAT: Frozen choc peanut butter dates TO LISTEN: Geolier Italian rapper Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E453 · Fri, October 04, 2024
The Crumbl cookie scandal exposing our trademark laws
Crumbl Cookies is the billion dollar US company that made global headlines this week after a group of Sydneysiders imported 800 of their cookies and sold them at an inflated price in Bondi. The group had no affiliation to the company, and have since posted statements on their social media accounts claiming to be "fans" of the American product who wanted to introduce them to Australian audiences. Crumbl Cookies has also said publicly that there is no association between the two business operations. The whole ordeal has opened up major legal questions. On this episode of The Briefing, lawyer Jahan Kalanter joins Chris Spyrou to explain the legal lines that may have been crossed. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E452 · Thu, October 03, 2024
Sport, gambling, tobacco - how lobbyists influence government
Headlines: Pro-Palestine protests to go ahead, Melania Trump doubles down on abortion rights support, FOI documents reveal Gina Rinehart asked the national gallery to “permanently dispose” of portraits and daylight savings starts this weekend. Deep dive: Lobbyists speaking with the Federal Government, and giving MPs gifts, is nothing new. These groups have a range of interests, including the Australian Medical Association, KFC and even Kmart. It is all perfectly legal - and there is legislation in place to make sure lobbying is done in a responsible way. The Alliance for Gambling (AFG) reform this week revealed that 19 MPs accepted tickets to sporting events from gambling companies, ahead of the government discussing whether to ban gambling ads here in Australia. But is the Government consulting with both sides of any debate a bad idea? In this episode of the Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by the AFG’s chief advocate Tim Costello to explain what is happening behind closed doors. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E451 · Thu, October 03, 2024
Why are more women lifting weights than ever before?
Women are lifting heavy in 2024 than it’s ever been. There’s been a 20% increase in female participation in competitive lifting and bodybuilding events in the U.S, and here in Australia, there are now more women than men competing in a range national events. But, bodybuilding can come with a darkside – disordered eating, steroid use, and pushing yourself to the physical extreme. So why are so many women joining the movement? Is it smart – is it safe – and what does life look like when you do? On this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by LiSTNR’s Ed Gooden to explore what he found out when he asked those in the sport why they do it. Today’s deep dive discusses disordered eating – If you need help or support for an eating disorder or body image issue, please call The Butterfly Foundation’s National Helpline on 1800 334 673. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E450 · Wed, October 02, 2024
The state of the world's girls in 2024
Headlines: Melbourne and Sydney pro-Palestine protestors push ahead with plans for protests over October 7 weekend, Labor plans to address shrinkflation, Australia’s rental prices might finally be coming down and we look at last night's Dally M awards. Deep dive: When we think about the effects of war on children – the psychological trauma of witnessing violence and the loss of loved ones is well known. But what is lesser known is exactly how these conflicts disproportionately affect young girls over boys – the brutal violations of their rights and the surprising ways they find escapism to cope with it all. This insight is the focus of a new report published today by Plan International, which surveyed over 10,000 young people across 10 countries currently experiencing armed conflict. The report, which was first published in 2007 under the title the ‘State of the World’s Girls’, has this year been widened to include young boys for the first time. On this episode of The Briefing, CEO of Plan International Australia Susanne Legena joins Antoinette Lattouf to unpack the results. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E449 · Wed, October 02, 2024
Are JD Vance and Tim Walz friends?
Tim Walz and JD Vance have gone head-to-head in what will be their only chance to convince the American voting public to pick their leader in the upcoming election in November. Hosted by CBS News at the network's broadcast center in New York City, former high school teacher and American football coach Tim Walz and Donald Trump's vice- presidential nominee and author of Hillbilly Elegy JD Vance went high and low. Policies on abortion, healthcare, guns, childcare, the economy and more were flying left, right and center. Polls suggest the race is incredibly close. Has this debate swayed anyone unsure of who to pitch their vote to, 35 days away from the election? Washington-based journalist David Levinthal joins Helen Smith on this episode of The Briefing to give his verdict on who came out on top. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E448 · Tue, October 01, 2024
How drones are exposing vulnerable animals at risk from logging
Headlines: Iran strikes Israel as IDF ground invasion of Lebanon continues, Julian Assange says he pleaded ‘guilty to journalism’, NDIS changes revealed, and a naked Donald Trump effigy. Deep dive: From war, to surveillance, to delivering food to your front door, drone technology is quickly entering regular use in our daily lives. A surprising new addition to that list is helping to save Australia’s unique Greater Glider from logging in its habitat in NSW. Those using the tech say, “if you can see them, you can save them”, and that enlisting the help of drones is essential in monitoring habitat. But is it safe? And is it overstepping the fine balance between conservation and industry? Leanne St George from Ripper Corporation Drones and Stuart Blanch from the World Wide Fund for Nature join Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to explain how they’re using the drones, and why they think the effort is worth it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E447 · Tue, October 01, 2024
Why Netflix's Menendez brothers series is murder porn
Experts have called Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s new Netflix show, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, murder porn. The series explores the real-life brutal murders of Kitty and Jose Menendez back in 1989 committed by their sons Lyle and Erik – who alleged their father sexually abused them since childhood, and that their mother knew and let it happen. Experts and viewers have flagged multiple issues with the series including the accuracy around an incestuous homosexual relationship between the brothers. In this episode of the Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Dr Xanthé Mallett, a forensic criminologist from the University of Newcastle, to explain why this series is misleading. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E446 · Mon, September 30, 2024
SpaceX's five-month rescue mission for stranded astronauts begins
Headlines: Israel prepares ground invasion of Lebanon, new code of conduct for dating apps in Australia, house prices slow nationally and New Zealand takes back haka world record. Deep dive: SpaceX has just launched a five-month rescue mission to bring home Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams from the International Space Station. It's the next step in the long saga of a mission that hasn't gone according to plan, with the pair stuck in space since June after complications with their Boeing Starliner. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Swinburne’s Co-Director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute Dr Rebbeca Allen to talk through the next steps in the mission, and if she'd describe it as a failure. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E445 · Mon, September 30, 2024
How Lebanese Australians feel about the escalating violence
Violence is building in Lebanon as the war is Gaza spills over multiple fronts. Over the weekend Israeli strikes killed several high-ranking Hezbollah leaders, while also injuring and killing many Lebanese civilians. Governments around the world are calling for ceasefire, with Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong warning citizens in Lebanon to come home before further escalation. With all this underway, how are Australians with ties to Lebanon feeling right now, watching from afar? And what do they want you to keep in mind? Liz Deep-Jones is a journalist and human rights advocate of Lebanese descent. She joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to share her thoughts on the conflict right now. Find out more about Liz’s latest documentary ‘We Bleed the Same’ here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E444 · Sun, September 29, 2024
How to delete yourself from the internet
Headlines: Thousands gather for protests across Australia amid increased violence in the Middle East, Budget surplus, 8 in 10 Aussie CEOs think WFH will be over in three years and SNL launches season 50. Deep dive: Ever thought about deleting yourself from the internet? It’s more complex than simply deactivating old accounts, especially when almost everything we do online leaves traces of our personal information behind. That data is banked and often extracted by brokers who use it to build and then sell detailed profiles of us to whoever is looking to buy. While valuable to businesses, these profiles pose significant privacy risks that our current legal infrastructure is struggling to keep up with. But there is hope, with companies emerging to help individuals regain control, but many, like Melbourne-based podcast producer Lindsey Green, are taking on this daunting task themselves. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou chats with LiSTNR’s Lindsey Green and DeleteMe CEO Rob Shavell to find out exactly what deleting yourself from the internet entails and what can be done to better protect our data. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E443 · Fri, September 27, 2024
Dr Karl says OnlyFans can save the planet
Dr Karl is Australia’s favourite science communicator, with a passion for colourful shirts with the energy of an exclamation mark! He’s a former taxi driver, was a serial university student – studying for 16 years – and is now a much-loved medical personality on radio and TV who has just written a memoir – The Periodic Tale. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Dr Karl unpacks his family’s traumatic journey and Holocaust survival to how he thinks OnlyFans could help climate change. Weekend List TO READ: The Sunbird by Sara Haddad TO WATCH : Dancing with the Stars US on YouTube TO WATCH: Bad Boys: Ride or Die on Netflix TO WATCH: Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story on Netflix Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E442 · Fri, September 27, 2024
A Chinese video game is telling streamers what to say
Black Myth: Wukong has become one of the fastest-selling games of all time, selling 10 million copies in just three days and changing the Chinese video game market forever. But Wukong’s success didn’t come without controversy after the publishers, Hero games, asking reviewers not to discuss covid, the Chinese gaming industry and “feminist propaganda” whilst streaming. In this episode of the Briefing Helen Smith is joined by writer and game reviewer for press start Harry Kalogirou to unpack what Wukong means for the future of the Chinese gaming industry. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E441 · Thu, September 26, 2024
Is the AFL winning the code wars?
Headlines: Supermarket prices have soared by 20% in the last five years, Palestinian President addresses the UN, if Trump wins the Australian economy will suffer and Katy Perry teases massive Australian name at tomorrow’s AFL Grand Final. Deep Dive: The AFL Grand Final against the Sydney Swans and the Brisbane Lions is set to have the highest ratings of all time. Both teams are two of the most supported in the league, but over the past week, NRL and AFL bosses have been clashing over ratings, codes and ‘delusional’ sporting state hype. In this episode of the Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Triple M’s Liam Flanagan to unpack if AFL could ever take over an NRL state. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E440 · Thu, September 26, 2024
The winners and losers of Australia's housing policies
Housing, and the state of it in this country, has been on the minds of both Australian politicians and regular people alike. The major parties have very different perspectives in mind for what policies will fix this problem – but it’s hard to cut through political point scoring to get real on exactly what they have in mind, and how it will work for you. This week The Briefing brought you a housing spokesperson from each major party in Australia – Labor, the Liberals, and The Greens – and asked them to give you their key policy vision for how we fix the country’s housing crisis. But do their proposals make economic sense? On this episode, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by The Motley Fool's Chief Investment Officer Scott Phillips to help us unpack what all three are proposing, and his verdict on what he thinks might fix it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E439 · Wed, September 25, 2024
Here’s how the Greens want to fix Australia’s housing crisis
Headlines: Labor reportedly considering a negative gearing policy, IDF prepares for ground assault in Lebanon, Choice reveals the cheapest supermarket and two Aussie suburbs make top 10 coolest in the world. Deed Dive: The state of Australia’s housing is in crisis. From building them to buying them, there’s delay, disappointment, and division. The major parties have very different perspectives in mind for what policies will fix this problem – but it’s hard to cut through political point scoring to get a real sense of exactly what they have in mind, and how it will work for you. In this housing special series, The Briefing team brings you a housing spokesperson from each major party in Australia – Labor, the Coalition, The Greens – to give you the no-bullshit breakdown on what they see as their vision for our country’s housing future. In this episode, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Max Chandler-Mather from The Greens to unpack what they want you to know about how they plan to tackle the problem. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E438 · Wed, September 25, 2024
What’s behind Moo Deng and Pesto’s viral moment?
The internet has become obsessed with two animals in recent weeks; Moo Deng, the pygmy hippo from Thailand, and Pesto the giant emperor penguin chick from Melbourne’s Sea Life Aquarium. The interest has sparked hordes of visitors, thousands of memes, celebrity endorsements and even moves for a patent. What makes an animal go viral? And what are some of the unintended repercussions for the cute specimen in question? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Dr Kyle Moore from Swinburne University to find out. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E437 · Tue, September 24, 2024
Here’s how Labor wants to fix Australia’s housing crisis
Headlines: More strikes on Lebanon, the UN General Assembly meets, Australia's Reserve Bank has held our cash rate steady for the seventh time in a row and the Federal Government has been slammed for approving coal mine expansions. Plus, the AFL Event office has been hacked just days out from the sold out Grand Final. Deep Dive: The state of Australia’s housing is in crisis. From building them to buying them, there’s delay, disappointment, and division. The major parties have very different perspectives in mind for what policies will fix this problem – but it’s hard to cut through political point scoring to get a real sense of exactly what they have in mind, and how it will work for you. In this housing special series, The Briefing team brings you a housing spokesperson from each major party in Australia – Labor, the Coalition, The Greens – to give you the no-bullshit breakdown on what they see as their vision for our country’s housing future. In this episode, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Labor’s Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Clare O'Neil, to unpack what Labor wants you to know about how they plan to tackle the problem. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E436 · Tue, September 24, 2024
Meet the AI journalists fighting censorship in Venezuela
Repression and media censorship in Venezuela are at an all-time high. Reports of arbitrary detentions, forced disappearances, and torture of political dissidents have skyrocketed following claims that the country’s current president, Nicolas Maduro, stole the July 28 election. But now, Venezuelan journalists are fighting back – reporting on events through two AI-generated avatars to avoid persecution. Both those avatars, as well as senior LiSTNR Investigative journalist Claudianna Blanco, join Chris Spyrou on this episode of The Briefing to unpack why this tech is necessary and the political state of Venezuela at the moment. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E435 · Mon, September 23, 2024
How will we fix our housing crisis? The Liberals’ plan for you
Headlines: Fresh Israeli strikes on Lebanon have killed at least 356 people, Albo blames supermarkets for adding to inflation, Reserve Bank tipped to leave interest rates on hold today and Patrick Cripps claims the Brownlow while the AFL settles with Katy Perry. Deep Dive: The state of Australia’s housing is in crisis. From building them to buying them, there’s delay, disappointment, and division. The major parties have very different perspectives in mind for what policies will fix this problem – but it’s hard to cut through political point scoring to get real on exactly what they have in mind, and how it will work for you. In this housing special series, The Briefing team brings you a housing spokesperson from each major party in Australia – Labor, the Liberals, and The Greens – and asks them to give you the no-bullshit breakdown on what they see as their vision for our country’s housing future. In this episode, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with the Coalition's Michael Sukkar, Federal Member for Deakin and Shadow Minister for Housing and Homelessness, to unpack what he wants you to know about how they plan to tackle the problem. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E434 · Mon, September 23, 2024
Will anyone be left to fight the war in Ukraine?
As the war in Ukraine approaches its third year, global attention has largely moved on - but the conflict remains, and continues to shape the future of Eastern Europe. President of Russia Vladimir Putin has made a third order to boost Russia's military presence since 2022 while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is seemingly relying on ageing conscripts. Overall, it appears manpower on both sides is flailing. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Misha Zelinsky, a national security expert, journalist and author of ‘The Sun Will Rise,’ who has spent time on the ground in Ukraine to find out who, if anyone will be left to fight the war, and whether an end to the conflict is in sight. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E433 · Sun, September 22, 2024
What social media platforms should be doing about child exploitation
Headlines: Australia living in its longest period of ‘economic misery’ in a decade, Israel – Lebanon update, Donald Trump says he won’t run in 2028 if he loses this election and Friends turns 30. Deep Dive: Reports of online child exploitation have increased 45 per cent in the last financial year – which is an average of 160 a day. Authorities say every one of these reports contains images and videos of real children being sexually abused or exploited. But how do you catch those responsible? And are social media platforms, where these images and videos can often be found, doing enough to fight it? Jon Rouse is a retired Queensland Police Detective Inspector, who worked in Task Force Argos where he implemented Australia's first operation proactively targeting internet child sex offenders. He joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to explore where he thinks the increase is coming from. Lifeline 13 11 14 Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E432 · Fri, September 20, 2024
Shaun Micallef on why he's taking comics 'back to where they came from'
Shaun Micallef is one of Australia’s most recognisable faces. He’s an actor, writer, television host and comedian. Now he’s back with another show on the cards, Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey on SBS - where he takes six comics ‘back to where they came from’ for want of a better expression. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Shaun explains how he keeps getting the top gigs in television and what he actually thinks of his reviews. Weekend List TO WATCH: The Perfect Couple on Netflix TO READ: A Periodic Tale by Dr Karl TO LISTEN: Rex Orange County album The Alexander Technique TO WATCH: Friends from College on Netflix See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E431 · Fri, September 20, 2024
Big Brother is back - but has our appetite for reality TV changed?
Big Brother Australia is returning to Australian TVs in 2025 for the 3rd time. Will it be the show's final, ever? After traversing three networks, being revived and killed twice, and now needing to compete with the dominance of ad-free streaming and reality TV juggernauts like Love Island, is there a place for a show like Big Brother anymore? Returning to its original home – Channel 10 – it plans to bring back some of its iconic live segments like Big Brother Uncut and Friday Night Live to lure audiences back to mainstream television – but with rates of free-to-air TV viewership dwindling, it might be too little, too late. Entertainment and gossip correspondent and reality TV show veteran Richard Reid joins Chris Spyrou on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the Big Brother launch plan and if he thinks it will sink or swim. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E430 · Thu, September 19, 2024
Witnessing the new face of cyber warfare in Lebanon + Headlines
Dozens of people were killed this week in Lebanon in two separate attacks that were unlike anything the world has seen so far in warfare. Pagers and walkie talkies belonging to militant group Hezbollah were set to detonate at the exact same time, injuring thousands of people. It is yet to be explained who and how this attack came to be, but is it a sign of what wars will look like in the future? And what else can we expect from emerging technologies and strategies? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Dr Keith Suter, Managing Director of Global Directions and an expert on global political risk to find out. Headlines: Hezbollah – Israel update Greens defend housing position Australia’s population has officially hit 27 million Kylie announces massive world tour, with Australia the first stop Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E429 · Thu, September 19, 2024
All the allegations against Sean 'Diddy' Combs
This week Sean “Diddy” Combs, also known as P. Diddy and Puff Daddy, was arrested in Manhattan by federal agents and charged with sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution in the United States. The rapper has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. It’s not the first time the artist has had his reputation come under fire in public - since 2023 various allegations against him have been made, including physical and sexual abuse. What do these latest charges mean for his future, and what does the reaction from both the hip-hop and wider music industry say about the influence and power an artist can hold? Helen Smith is joined by hip-hop journalist and author Simone Amelia Jordan, who has sat down with Diddy himself in the past, to explore her perspective on this latest development. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E428 · Wed, September 18, 2024
Kids around the world are suing governments over climate change + Headlines
Groups of children and young people are trying to force their governments to do something about climate change, not through political campaigns, but by taking them to court. Most recently, young climate activists have asked the US supreme court to revive their case against the American government on climate – but using the legal system for this purpose has had very mixed results around the world, including here in Australia. Anjali Sharma was 17 years old when she led a case arguing the environment minister has a duty to protect children from climate change. The federal court ruled against her, but as the climate crisis continues to grow, the question remains – can kids in court save us from climate change? She joins Bension Siebert to explain what’s happened to the global movement of kids suing their governments over climate change, and her perspective on the way forward. Headlines: Walkie talkies explode across Lebanon killing 14 Anthony Albanese threatens double dissolution over housing bill Tupperware goes bust Almost half of Aussies are unhappy at work Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E427 · Wed, September 18, 2024
Should Tinder be teaching us about consent?
With an advocate like Chanel Contos onboard, will learning about consent on Tinder actually work? The dating app has launched a new Consent Course , created in partnership with sexual consent activist and founder of Teach Us Consent Chanel Contos, and women's domestic violence service WESNET. The course is only available on Tinder’s School of Swipe website - not via the app - though it will be promoted to users there from next week. But what is the point? Do the people using these platforms need this? Will it actually do anything to help reduce sexual assault, or is this a dating app doing a PR exercise while the spotlight is on them from community and government to do more? Bension Siebert and Helen Smith join to discuss the motivation and possible results, and speak to Chanel Contos on why she chose to be involved. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E426 · Tue, September 17, 2024
The pros and cons of weighing kids in school + Headlines
Should we be weighing children at school? Health experts have suggested we start weighing kids in schools to help tackle the obesity epidemic, but could this do more harm than good? In this episode of the Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by obesity researcher and author of Healthy Parents, Healthy Kids Dr Nick Fuller to explain the pros and cons of weighing children at school. Headlines: At least nine killed as pagers explode across Lebanon Diddy charged with sex trafficking Instagram launches ‘Teen Accounts’ Glasgow swoops in to take 2026 Commonwealth Games Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E425 · Tue, September 17, 2024
Meet the ‘proud Islamophobe’ advising Donald Trump
Meet the woman who has helped spread claims that Haitian immigrants are eating people's pets in Ohio, Springfield. Laura Loomer is a far-right activist and online personality who is feeding Republicans with extreme conspiracy theories and is seemingly influencing Donald Trump’s campaign. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt chats with Planet America’s Chas Licciardello to find out who exactly Laura Loomer is, how close she is with Trump and whether she has any bearing on swinging the upcoming election. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E424 · Mon, September 16, 2024
What happens when you teach mental health first aid in prison? + Headlines
Improving mental health is one of the most important aspects of rehabilitating offenders in incarceration. It’s been the focus of a recent program at Wellington Correctional Centre – which was formerly branded the toughest country jail in NSW. More than 200 inmates and 70 staff have participated in mental health first aid training led by the National Wellbeing Alliance. What impact are they hoping it will have? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by the Centre’s Governor, Brad Peebles, to discuss the successes and findings of the program and what’s prevented its implementation in the past. Headlines: Trump’s latest assassination attempt Housing policy wrap Murdoch trial kicks off Aussie school officially adopts four day school week Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E423 · Mon, September 16, 2024
We're hooked on the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives
You could call 2024 the year of the Mormon influencer. The internet has become fascinated with the lives of #tradwives, and now The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is dominating the small screen. So, what's behind our fascination? And how is this latest show contributing to a conversation about modern Mormonism and feminism? In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt chats with journalist and writer for Marie Claire, Ruby Feneley. Ruby recently published a piece recently about the show in Marie Claire, you can read it here . Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E422 · Sun, September 15, 2024
What does a shortage of PrEP mean for HIV rates in Aus? + Headlines
PrEP is a miracle drug that is currently in short supply. Full name pre-exposure prophylaxis, it’s a little blue pill you take once a day – or before and after having sex – that stops 99 per cent of sexual HIV transmissions. It makes having sex a lot safer, especially for men who have sex with men, and it’s helped the rate of HIV diagnoses in this country plummet by about a third, and has been widely available across Australia for almost a decade. Now a member of the South Australian parliament, then-Senator for South Australia Robert Simms successfully pushed for PrEP to be placed on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme, or the PBS, meaning anyone can prevent themselves from getting HIV for about $30 a month. But a supply shortage has hit – with multiple brands of the medication expected to be in low supply or unavailable until March next year. Rob Simms joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to explain what might be causing the delay, and what he thinks the government should be doing about it. Headlines: US election update Houthi strike reaches Israel for first time Madison de Rozario backs up Paralympics with win in Sydney marathon The Emmys are today Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E421 · Fri, September 13, 2024
Matildas stars on reality TV, FOMO and heartbreak
We all feel in love with the Matilda's during the world cup last year and now besties, Matilda players Chloe Logarzo and Emily Gielnik are ready to win The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition. After injury ruled out the duo in the most recent Olympics, the pair took their heartbreak and created a business together to inspire the next generation of Matildas. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Chloe and Emily share their new found love of reality TV and how they turned their FOMO into a positive. Watch the The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition on 10 or 10 Play now Weekend List TO WATCH: Louis Theroux interview with Chelsea Manning on ABC iView TO WEAR: 7-Evelen sunglasses TO TRY: To Save Face Sunscreen from Mecca TO WEAR: Uniqlo basics Send us your weekend briefing recommendations! Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E420 · Fri, September 13, 2024
Beyoncé's been snubbed by the Country Music Awards. Are they racist?
This week, the Country Music Award (CMA) nominations were announced and Beyoncé was left off the list - despite her single Texas Hold 'Em spending 10 weeks at the top of the country music Billboard charts. The mega star’s rocky relationship with the CMA’s is nothing new, and dates back to 2016 when her performance with The Chicks was met with backlash and racism. So are there racist undertones to the nominations and has Queen Bey been snubbed? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Grammy Considered Recording Artist, corporate crisis fixer and podcast host of the Antoinettes, Azure Antoinette to unpack it all. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E419 · Thu, September 12, 2024
The truth about seed oils + Headlines
Concerns and conspiracy theories about seed oils have been circulating on social media over the last few months – and the political-right have taken a surprising liking to them. The most vocal of voices recently has been JFK’s nephew and former independent presidential candidate, Robert F. Kennedy Jr, who says they are “the worst things you can eat,” linking them to chronic inflation, diabetes and cancer. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Professor Lauren Ball, Chair of Community Health and Wellbeing at the University of Queensland to unpack where these theories are coming from, if there’s any evidence behind them, and if we should all be worried about seed oils. Headlines: The first-ever private spacewalk Six UN workers killed in Gaza strike Dementia prescriptions jump 46% in Australia Taylor Swift has become most decorated solo artist of the VMAs Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E418 · Thu, September 12, 2024
Live on the ground of the Melbourne anti-war protests
Violence has erupted in Melbourne’s CBD. Over 1,500 anti-war protestors yesterday descended on the Land Forces expo, the largest event of its kind in the country where businesses and start-ups spruik their products to defence forces and contractors. Those rallying were there to protest not only the war in Gaza, but also the wider implications of war – from human rights violations to its impact on climate change. Footage of the clashes showed aggression on both sides, with officers and protestors both needing medical attention after day one of the three-day event. Over 1,000 officers were involved in the response, with rubber bullets, tear gas and flash bangs used on protestors, and there have since been calls for an independent review of police actions towards those involved with the protesting. Given high tensions since the outbreak of the war in Gaza, and wider conversations about war and the place it has in our modern world – these protests were almost guaranteed to be a tinder box of emotions. So, who is to blame for the violence we witnessed? And what exactly where these protestors hoping to achieve? For this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks to those attending the rally on day two of the event, to speak to protestors involved on what they think about the violence. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E417 · Wed, September 11, 2024
Australia needs more houses - so why can't we build them + Headlines
House prices are surging across the country. It’s been particularly extreme in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, where prices have risen by closer to 60 per cent over the same period. It’s making it nearly impossible for many young people to get into the property market and part of the reason comes down to how many homes we’re building in Australia compared to the number of people who need to live in them. On this episode of the Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert explain why Australia is not building houses faster and what could be done to fix it. Headlines: Melbourne protests Harris, Biden, Trump and Vance attend 9/11 memorial New survey shines light on the gambling habits of young Aussies MTV VMAs are on today Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E416 · Wed, September 11, 2024
Harris v Trump + Taylor Swift: who won the presidential debate?
Donald Trump and Kamala Harris have faced off in what could be the final debate before the election in November. The polls are neck and neck, both at the national level and in key swing states – and almost everyone likely to cast a vote in the US already has a strong opinion about Donald Trump. But plenty of people were still making up their mind on Kamala Harris, so the pressure was on her to define herself and convince undecided voters. The stakes were incredibly high - and meanwhile, outside the debate studio, pop superstar Taylor Swift made a surprise intervention. On this special US presidential debate edition of the Briefing, Bension Siebert interviews Washington journalist Dave Levinthal about all the key moments, and his verdict on who won. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E415 · Tue, September 10, 2024
The Murdoch family is in court for real life Succession showdown + Headlines
A two-week blockbuster trial with Rupert Murdoch is getting underway in Nevada today. It’s set to decide the fate of some of the world’s most famous news brands, and who gets to control them. The 93-year-old media mogul, wants to give his voting power in News Corporation and Fox Corp to his oldest son Lachlan, stripping that power from his three other children. In scenes reminiscent of the hit tv drama Succession , Elisabeth, Prudence and James are fighting this move in court. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re speaking with award winning journalist and author Paddy Manning to break down everything you need to know. Headlines: Two boys found dead; mother arrested in NSW’s Blue Mountains US Debate is happening today 600,000 turn out in Timor Leste to see the Pope Charles and Camilla Aussie itinerary revealed Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E414 · Tue, September 10, 2024
Will we be cheating on partners with AI in the future?
Artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming intertwined within our day-to-day lives. But it’s not just simply helping us set our nightly alarms or adjust the tone of our emails anymore. For some, it’s offering intimacy and companionship in a way that’s challenging the conventional ways we understand love, relationship and sex. In the (not too distant) future will we be cheating on partners with AI? Will non-monogamy be the new normal, and where will sex-bots fall into the mix? In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert chats with futurist Dr Ben Hamer to explore what modern relationships might look like in 2045. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E413 · Mon, September 09, 2024
Jayson Gillham on war, art and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra + Headlines
Pianist Jayson Gillham made international headlines last month after dedicating a performance with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) to journalists who have been killed in Gaza. The backlash from MSO was swift, resulting in Jayson’s performance being pulled. The MSO later admitted it "made an error”, but maintains the concert was not an appropriate place to express personal views, and an external review into the MSO is now underway. In this episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf sits down with the pianist at the center of the headlines, to discuss what’s happened since his performance and the legal battle he now faces as a result. Headlines: Federal Government to ban social media for children Princess Kate ‘cancer free’ Opposition at odds over whether to break up Qantas and Jetstar Apple introduces AI iPhone 16 Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E412 · Mon, September 09, 2024
Australia will be defenceless unless we do better, says Jacqui Lambie
After receiving thousands of submissions and holding hearings across the country over three years, the Royal Commission into Veteran Suicide is releasing its final report today. It’s expected to outline shameful failures within Australia’s Defence Forces to support veterans’ mental and physical health, especially as they transition into civilian life after serving. Tasmanian Senator Jacqui Lambie knows this first-hand. She first called for this Royal Commission as she entered parliament more than a decade ago, she’s a military veteran herself, and she's been publicly open about her struggle with physical and mental health after she served. On this episode of the Briefing, Jacqui Lambie speaks to Bension Siebert, arguing that failures by the Australian Defence Force are not only harming veterans and their families, but undermining our national security. If this conversation has raised anything for you, you can seek help. Open Arms provides 24-hour free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF members and their families 1800 011 046 And you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E411 · Sun, September 08, 2024
Are virtual schools the solution to school refusal? + Headlines
In 2020 and amid a global pandemic, over 4 million students across Australia were forced to transition to online learning. Almost every school became a “virtual school” and it came with unintended consequences, including school refusal - which became the subject of a Federal Senate Inquiry last year. School refusal is an emotional-based avoidance of the traditional classroom. Among the solutions the government is investing in, and health practitioners are recommending, is enrolling affected students in the very thing that put the issue in the spotlight - virtual schools. But how effective can they be and what other solutions are available to parents and students struggling through this? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by educator, author, award-winning speaker and founder of The Youth Excel Centre, Michelle Mitchell to find out more. Headlines: Paris Paralympics wrap up Mother of Georgia school shooter speaks out, says she warned school Nearly 70% of Australia’s tourism sites are at risk from climate change Elle Macpherson defends natural cancer treatment Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E410 · Fri, September 06, 2024
Monty Franklin on making a movie with John Cleese and Jim Jefferies
Stand up comedian Monty Franklin tries to make the content audiences need- instead of what they think they want. Whether that’s explaining Aussie culture and slang to American audiences- or working on a film about the Great Emu War of 1932 with John Cleese, Jim Jefferies and Rob Schneider. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Monty talks about why the best comedy is authentic- and why he’s not worried his friendship with controversial podcaster Joe Rogan could lose him fans. Weekend List TO BUY: Olive ice cubes for martinis TO WATCH: One Day TO READ: All I Ever Wanted Was To Be Hot by Lucinda Price TO TRY: Aspect Face Masks See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E409 · Fri, September 06, 2024
Has tech helped some Paralympians have an advantage over their rivals?
Technology enables many athletes to compete in the Paralympics – whether it’s modified wheelchairs or carbon fibre running blades. But is some of this tech giving competitors an unfair advantage over their rivals? If one athlete can spend the cash for the latest running blades, putting them a few seconds ahead of their competition, is fairness lost? Professor John Cairney is the Head of School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences at the University of Queensland. He joins Antoinette Lattouf on this episode of The Briefing to explore what technical advancement means for Paralympic athletes, both in Paris and into the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E408 · Thu, September 05, 2024
The case for putting dental in Medicare + Headlines
This week the Parliamentary Budget Office released costings for a Greens plan to add dental to Medicare. On the face of it, the fact that a major branch of healthcare is just not a part of the public health system might be surprising to many. But adding it now, according to the costings, would mean billions of dollars in new government spending – and the Australian Dental Association says we just don’t have the number of dentists required to do it. So how would it cope if we added a whole new category of medicine? Jordan Steele-John is the Greens Senator for Western Australia – he joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to make the case for dental to join Medicare. Headlines: Paralympics update Federal government to announce domestic violence package Donald Trump pleads not guilty to revised federal charges Maori queen anointed Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E407 · Thu, September 05, 2024
Elle Macpherson says she cured cancer naturally. Here's why she’s wrong
Australian supermodel Elle Macpherson has this week credited natural therapies with curing her cancer. Every day, 58 people in Australia are diagnosed with breast cancer – one in seven Australian women will experience it in their lifetime. Diagnoses have increased by almost a quarter in the last 10 years – but the relative five-year survival rate is 92%. Despite most patients getting a positive prognosis, it is a disease that will impact every facet of a person’s life. When the 60-year-old former supermodel says she rejecting chemotherapy for an all-natural approach to treating her breast cancer, she raised some serious eyebrows. Are her comments irresponsible? Dr David Robert Grimes is a cancer researcher and author. He joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to explain why he thinks her comments could cause serious harm. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E406 · Wed, September 04, 2024
GDP, RBA, and what all the economy chatter means for you + Headlines
Yesterday Australia’s economy got its quarterly checkup, and the results are in. Gross Domestic Product performance, or GDP, grew by 1.5% over a year. But what does that actually mean, and how does GDP growth affect our lives? Is this an economy at panic stations, or is there no real cause for concern? Motley Fool’s chief investment officer Scott Phillips joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the jargon and clear the mist on what these latest figures reveal about the state of the Australian economy. Headlines: Paralympics Update - Aussies win nine medals. US School Shooting Australian gambling report Rachel “Raygun” Gunn has broken her silence Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E405 · Wed, September 04, 2024
Your mobile phone isn't giving you brain cancer
Good news! Your mobile phone isn’t giving you brain cancer! Decades of worry about radio waves travelling out of our phones and into our skulls have apparently been put to rest with a massive World Health Organisation review published today, finding zero link between mobile phone use and brain, head or neck cancer. However, different groups of scientists conducting different kinds of studies on mobile phone radiation and possible health effects have suggested the opposite previously – so how are most of us non-scientists meant to tell who’s right? Assistant Director of Health Impact Assessment at the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency Ken Karipidis joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the findings, and what we should take from them. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E404 · Tue, September 03, 2024
Life is getting worse for women in Afghanistan. You can help + Headlines
The situation for women in Afghanistan right now is bleak. After retaking control of the country in August of 2021, the Taliban has wasted no time reinstating a raft of rules stripping away the rights of females. A week ago, a decree made it illegal for women to speak outside their homes. Alongside having to completely cover their bodies head-to-toe in thick fabric, they’re also banned from working and can’t look directly at men they aren’t related to by blood. Afghanistan is the only country in the world where girls are banned from attending school after completing the sixth grade. For activists and advocates, what’s happened since the Taliban came back into power is not surprising - but that doesn’t mean they’ve given up hope. On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Shabnam Safa, a refugee advocate in Australia who here herself as an Afghani refugee, to hear what she thinks of the latest developments in the country. Headlines: Paralympics - Aussies have netted more gold Australian ambassador to Iran recalled after post supporting LGBTQIA+ community Two sailors have been rescued hundreds of kilometers offshore from Sydney Queen Camilla gives rare King Charles cancer update Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom More info on Afghanistan from Human Rights Watch: https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2023/country-chapters/afghanistan-0 International campaigns: The End Gender Apartheid campaign is run by experts and advocates from Afghanistan and Iran. https://endgenderapartheid.today/ - https://www.instagram.com/endgenderapartheid.today/ Follow and support journalism in/from Afghanistan Rukhshana Media - a women-led online news agency for women and children in Afghanistan - https://rukhshana.com/en/ - <a href="https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/W4m-Cr81gOc9JG
S5 E403 · Tue, September 03, 2024
Is TikTok blurring the line between a review and an ad?
Have you ever found yourself endlessly scrolling through TikTok being bombarded with food reviews? Sometimes they appear organic, with creators hopping on a trend or trying a viral product for their followers. Other times, these creators are being paid by restaurants and cafes to plug their businesses or products. There are legal and ethical guidelines in place to stop this content from appearing organically in your feed – but why are they being so rarely followed, and even more rarely enforced? In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by TikTok lawyer Jahan Kalantar to find out exactly how online creators are sidestepping consumer laws and what more, if anything, can be done. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E402 · Mon, September 02, 2024
Could Israel's striking workers end the war in Gaza? + Headlines
Much of Israel’s economy ground to a halt overnight, during the country’s first major workers’ strike since the start of the war. The strike shut down Israel’s international airport and disrupted banks, manufacturing facilities, healthcare facilities and businesses, as Israelis expressed their anger over six Israeli captives of Hamas found dead in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political career has survived major demonstrations before, but could this strike finally force him to agree to a hostage swap deal and a ceasefire? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined Dr Eyal Mayroz, a Senior Lecturer in Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Sydney to provide some insight into what impact it might have. Headlines: Paralympics Update Britain is suspending dozens of weapons sales to Israel Wild weather wrap Famous Beluga whale found dead Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E401 · Mon, September 02, 2024
Are renters, not landlords, ever the bad guy?
Renting in Australia can really suck. With winter over and the end of 2024 approaching, we’re heading towards peak moving season. Moving house can be one of life’s most stressful events – made even more stressful by the process of trying to get your bond back. In this two-part feature, The Briefing investigates the messy world of rental bonds. In Part Two, Bension Siebert speaks to Leanne Pilkington, President of the Real Estate Institute of Australia, on what the experience is like on the landlord and agent side of the bond system, and what she thinks might make the system fairer overall. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E400 · Sun, September 01, 2024
How to stop your landlord stealing your bond + Headlines
Renting in Australia can really suck. With winter over and the end of 2024 approaching, we’re heading towards peak moving season. Moving house can be one of life’s most stressful events – made even more stressful by the process of trying to get your bond back. In this two-part feature, The Briefing looks into the messy world of rental bonds. In Part One, Bension Siebert speaks to CEO of the New South Wales Tenants’ Union Leo Patterson Ross on how to stop your landlord stealing your bond, and whether there’s a way to run this system that’s better for everyone. Headlines: Paralympics update Israeli military recovers bodies of six hostages in Gaza Australians advised to work from home due to wild weather New survey asks Aussie teens what they want to be when they grow up Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E399 · Fri, August 30, 2024
Fatima Payman on love, scandal and fleeing the Taliban
Senator Fatima Payman first won office in 2022 and dominated headlines this year when she crossed the floor over Labor’s refusal to recognise a Palestinian state. Her life since then has been a self-described “whirlwind.” Fatima now sits as an independent, and in this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, she reveals the inner workings of the Albanese government that led to her resignation and whether she was prepared for the wave of bigotry and intense scrutiny she and her family experienced. Her story begins in Afghanistan in the 1990s where she and her family fled the Taliban to Pakistan, before starting a new life in Australia. As a proud and determined independent voice for Western Australia, Fatima is committed to breaking stereotypes, saying she is “more than a Muslim senator.” Weekend List TO BUY: Sticky grippy phone stickers TO DO: Bye-bye text messages and hello voice memos! TO TRY: Korean skincare TO WATCH: Fatima Payman on Australian Story See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E398 · Fri, August 30, 2024
The PM's backflipped on asking if you’re gay in the Census. Will it backfire?
It's been a big week of debate over the 2026 census and a handful of questions that might – or might not – be added to it. This episode, we speak to one of the Labor MPs who rebelled against the Government’s decision to exclude questions about LGBTIQA+ Australians from the Census – and get his take on a partial backflip from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese this morning. Labor's Federal Member for the Melbourne seat of Macnamara, Josh Burns, joins Bension Siebert for this episode of The Briefing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E397 · Fri, August 30, 2024
BONUS: The AFLW season kicks off - but has it already been overlooked?
The AFLW 2024 season kicks off today – but not everyone’s happy with the fixtures. As the AFL works to manage the men’s finals being played alongside the start of the women’s game, fans and key stakeholders are asking why logistical confusion remains as the competition heads into its ninth season. Georgia Rajic is a sports commentator and reporter – on this bonus episode of The Briefing, she joins Helen Smith to unpack the complex start to the AFLW this year, where the competition is at almost a decade into running, and who looks set to top the ladder in 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E396 · Thu, August 29, 2024
How to make friends with a magpie this swooping season + Headlines
Spring brings with it some pretty wonderful things; blooming flowers, warmer weather and longer days. But it also means another thing that can strike fear into the heart of nearly every Australian – magpie swooping season. From August to October, the black and white birds are nesting, which means they’re feeling extra protective and have been known to fly at humans as they pass by their babies. Today on The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt, self-confessed magpie lady, is joined by Sean Dooley, conservationist and birdwatcher with Birdlife Australia, to break down the facts and myths around these fabulous birds, and encourage you to think differently about them this swooping season. Headlines: All the action from day one of The Paralympics Israeli forces have carried out raids in the West bank for a second day in a row Labor party under fire for census ABS Data shows more women than men in Australia Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E395 · Thu, August 29, 2024
Paralympian Carol Cooke on why all eyes should be on Paris
The Paralympics are on! In the very early hours of this morning Australia time, a spectacular opening ceremony kicked off the 2024 summer games in Paris, with more than 4,000 athletes from around the world preparing to compete over two massive weeks. How different is their experience from that of able-bodies athletes, and how do they feel about the competition starting so long after the first round of the Olympics has wrapped up? Carol Cooke is a Paralympic champion, competing on the world stage winning medals for Australia in London, Rio and Tokyo. She joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to reflect on what it’s like to compete at the most elite level in Paralympic sport, and how it compares to the experience of able-bodied Olympians. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E394 · Wed, August 28, 2024
The world's most expensive painting might soon be on display + Headlines
Leonardo da Vinci + a Saudi Prince + one very old painting = a world of controversy. Salvator Mundi is the most expensive painting sold at auction. Dubbed the male Mona Lisa, Salvator Mundi is attributed to Leonardo da Vinci – but not all art experts agree that the work is by the famous artist. The painting sold for $450 million to Saudi Arabian Prince Mohamed bin Salman in 2017. After several years hidden away in storage, the Prince reportedly has plans to make the painting the centerpiece of what some of called the ‘Saudi Louvre’, and in turn creating a tourist attraction for the West. Is this art washing live in action? Professor Anne Dunlop is the Herald Chair in Fine Arts from the University of Melbourne. She joins Helen Smith on this episode of The Briefing to explain the backstory of the artwork, and what it might mean if it comes out of hiding and onto display. Headlines: Paralympics opening ceremony Israel West Bank attack Trump blames Biden and Harris for assassination attempt New study shows dogs can communicate with humans Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E393 · Wed, August 28, 2024
Researchers have proof astrology is bullshit. Does that matter?
A new study has found astrologers are no better at prediction than random guessing. Does that matter? Many of those obsessed with their astrological chart when pressed might still admit it’s probably a little bit bullshit – but they like it, it’s fun, and it doesn’t do any harm. But for those who use astrology to help them make significant decisions in their life, it sort of does matter whether this stuff is true. Enter Spencer Greenberg, the founder of ClearerThinking.org , a social enterprise in the US. He and his colleagues were so interested in the topic that they designed and conducted a study to hopefully settle the argument once and for all – on this episode of The Briefing, he joins Bension Siebert to help explain what they found. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E392 · Tue, August 27, 2024
Oasis is getting the band back together + Headlines
Noel and Liam Gallagher, the two brothers behind the seminal British band Oasis, have announced they’re about to head out on a massive tour - the first time they’ve appeared together since 2009. Noel quit the band just before they were due to take the stage in Paris after a massive backstage fight, and the brothers have waged war against each other ever since. But in a twist, they're now reportedly saying it’s now or never. Once the biggest band in the world, this tour is expected to make in the vicinity of $1 billion. Music feature writer Cameron Adams joins Bension Siebert to explain what might have led to the change of heart, and why the two 'Don’t look back in anger'. Headlines: Hostage freed from Gaza Greens propose “Robin Hood” tax reform Zuckerberg says White House censored Meta during COVID-19 Trump agrees to debate Harris Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E391 · Tue, August 27, 2024
Meet the woman paid to be a bride’s fake friend
Planning a wedding can be incredibly stressful - especially with the average wedding in Australia costing nearly $35,000. That’s a price tag that can cover everything from venue hire, catering, hair, make-up, photography and now a professional bridesmaid. It’s like paying for a best friend (who's not actually your best friend) to support you every step of the way. Is this a logical development meeting the needs of busy lives, or commercialisation and a wedding industry gone insane? In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Kerstyn Walsh, the director of Hire a Bridesmaid, to breakdown why more and more Aussies are turning to their services. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E390 · Mon, August 26, 2024
Should the Census ask you if you’re gay? + Headlines
Should the 2026 Census ask you if you’re gay? That’s one of the questions advocacy groups for queer Australians have been grappling with as the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) prepares its next census. LGBTIQA+ advocacy groups have argued that the government does not collect enough fine-grain data on queer Australians to improve physical and mental health outcomes in the community that are poorer than the general population. On the other hand – could questions about people’s sexuality and gender identity risk the safety of people who aren’t out to their families? Seemingly out of nowhere, in recent days advocates have learned that the government will not allow the ABS to include questions about questions about sexuality, sex and gender, which the groups have been arguing for . On this episode of the Briefing, LGBTIQ+ Health CEO Nicky Bath chats to Bension Siebert about what should and should not be on the Census. Headlines: Ceasefire talks progress as Aussies have their say on Gazans getting visas Italian authorities confirm investigation into captain of Bayesian for manslaughter Winter temperature records smashed Trump and Harris argue over muted mics Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E389 · Mon, August 26, 2024
Telegram’s CEO is under arrest. What does that say about free speech?
Telegram is ranked as one of the world's major social media platforms, after Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok and Wechat. Just like Apple’s iMessage, Facebook messenger, Discord and WhatsApp, it lets you send end-to-end encrypted messages, meaning most of the time nobody – governments, law enforcement, private companies – can access those messages. In the early hours of Sunday morning Australia time French police officers reportedly arrested boss and founder of the app Pavel Durov, over claims the platform enables criminal activity. In a post on the network, Telegram News says Durov has nothing to hide, and it’s “absurd” to hold an online platform or its owner responsible for abuse that might happen on it. Is that right? On this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by James Hennessy, ideas and features editor for Capital Brief and cohost of LiSTNR's Down Round to reflect on what the arrest might mean for free speech online. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E388 · Sun, August 25, 2024
PFAS is in testicles, platypuses and drinking water. What now? + Headlines
PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl substances) are forever chemicals that seem to be turning up in just about everything. We now know they’re in platypuses, human testicles, and Sydney’s water supply. Last week, Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe won support to hold a Senate inquiry into the health and environmental impacts of PFAS. But for those of us without an expert understanding of this subject, all of this news is equal parts concerning and confusing. Should the government be acting now, and should we be concerned? Or is it too early to say? Water researcher and associate professor at Western Sydney University's School of Science Ian Wright joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack how we, and state and federal governments, should feel about these ‘forever chemicals’. Headlines: Israel and Hezbollah exchange rocket fire Labor's landslide loss in NT election New aviation ombudsman out today ‘Right to Disconnect’ laws come into force Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E387 · Fri, August 23, 2024
A love calculator started Jimmy & Nath’s 10 year radio career
Jimmy Smith and Nathan Roye choose the name of their radio show using a $12 love calculator app and it looks like it was right. The duo have formed back in 2015 and since then the Jimmy and Nath show has made it to the big time - brekkie radio. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Jimmy and Nath reveal what it’s like working with your best friend and go deep on their views on domestic violence and mental health. Weekend List TO FOLLOW - Jack Schlossberg on insta @jackuno TO WATCH - Joe Rogan: Burn the Boats on Netflix TO DO - Christmas budgeting templates from She’s on the Money TO DO - Mini bands workout Send us your weekend briefing recommendations! Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E386 · Fri, August 23, 2024
Kamala Harris has delivered the most important speech of her career
Appearing at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, Kamala Harris has accepted the party's nomination for president in the most important speech of her career so far. Taking the opportunity to outline her platform to millions of Americans set to cast her vote in November, she made passionate points for women’s and reproductive rights, freedom and stability, addressed Israel and Gaza and other global conflicts, that Donald Trump “wants to be an autocrat himself” and described the Republican party as, simply put, "out of their minds”. It’s been a big week for the democratic party at the Democratic National Convention, with political pageantry at its finest on display. Dave Levinthal, Editor-in-Chief of Raw Story, joins Bension Siebert live from Chicago to unpack what was said, and the week that was in American politics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E385 · Thu, August 22, 2024
Chappell Roan, the cult of celebrity, and fans going too far + Headlines
Mid-west princess and pop megastar Chappell Roan says some fan behavior is ‘abusive’, bordering on ‘harassment’, and ‘weird’. In a series of TikToks posted to her account, the singer has outlined her immense discomfort at the behaviors of fans approaching her on the street, demanding pictures and also physical contact like hugs. The posts have started a firestorm of debate online, with some praising her for her vulnerability and honesty during the highest moment in her career so far, while others say this level of interest is the cost of fame – that part of the deal of huge success is fans following you on the street and asking for a photo. Do celebrities experiencing worldwide fame, and earning massive wealth from their fans, owe those fans anything? And are these ‘parasocial’ relationships between fans and famous people getting worse? Dr Veronica Lamarche is a social psychologist and relationships researcher at the University of Essex. She joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to explore what’s going on with the fans of Chappell Roan. Headlines: Body of tech millionaire found after the sinking of his superyacht New charges for Andrew Tate NDIS passes new bill that changes support access Kamala Harris to headline final day of DNC Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E384 · Thu, August 22, 2024
Delivery death - riders dying for your dinner
How many times a week are you ordering from Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Menulog? Is your dinner order putting delivery riders at risk? A 27-year-old Door Dash delivery cyclist died in a hit and run accident in Melbourne this week. Victorian police say the driver allegedly fled the scene, but handed himself into officers later in the night. The Transport Workers Union (TWU) says it’s the 18th death of a delivery rider on Australian roads since the explosion in home delivery services. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Michael Kaine, national secretary of the TWU, to find out if it's the delivery companies hustling their staff, motorists on the roads fed up with lawless riders, or the riders putting themselves in danger. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E383 · Wed, August 21, 2024
The far-right is turning on the Trump campaign + Headlines
Candace Owens once suggested the US invade Australia to save us from “tyrannical” COVID policies. Laura Loomer has described herself as a proud Islamophobe. Nick Fuentes is a white supremacist who’s praised Hitler. All three have been big Donald Trump supporters, using huge social media platforms to advocate for the former president. But recently, all of them have turned on Trump’s campaign. What’s behind this dramatic turnaround? And are these far-right influencers right about their criticism of Trump’s strategy? Dr Emma Shortis is a Senior Researcher for the International & Security Affairs Program at independent thinktank the Australia Institute. She joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to provide some insight into what’s happening on the right side of the US political sphere. Headlines: Bodies recovered in Sicily after superyacht sinking Democratic National Convention day three wrap Aldi crowned Australia’s favourite supermarket Hot girl summer just got more expensive Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E382 · Wed, August 21, 2024
Josh Pyke and Gordi on the threat, and promise, of AI in music
AI is coming for the Australian music industry. Whether that’s a catastrophe or a creative revolution (or both) is yet to be seen. But this week music licensing lobby group APRA AMCOS released a report surveying thousands of musicians across Australia and New Zealand. Economic modelling in the report found AI is likely to wipe more than half a billion dollars off the revenues of music creators by 2028 - but it also found more than half of the musicians and producers surveyed said AI technology can help with the human creative process. On this episode of The Briefing Australian singer songwriters Josh Pyke and Sophie Payten AKA Gordi join Bension Siebert to unpack on the promise, and threat, of AI for Australian music. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E381 · Tue, August 20, 2024
Why Alex Dyson is still trying to crack into politics + Headlines
Alex Dyson has been working in breakfast radio since 2010 and now he’s running for politics (again). The radio presenter confirmed on his Matt & Alex - All Day Breakfast podcast with co-host Matt Okine that he’ll be running as an independent candidate for the Victorian seat of Wannon at the next federal election. For the third time, he’ll go up against the Liberal Party’s Dan Tehan – former Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment – who is the current sitting Member for the seat. In this chat with Bension Siebert for The Briefing, Alex explains why he’s having another crack, and why he still thinks young people across the country should be engaged with federal politics. Headlines: Tough new penalties for badly behaved politicians to be unveiled today Bodies of six Israeli hostages recovered from Gaza DNC Day Two: Obamas to headline World’s oldest person dies Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E380 · Tue, August 20, 2024
We're in a housing crisis. So why are 100,000 homes sitting empty?
Australia has more than 100,000 houses sitting empty. Is an obvious solution to our housing crisis staring us in the face? This week, data analysis commissioned by the Greens showed those in every day jobs like aged or disability carer, retail manager or nurse would need to spend more than two-thirds of their income to pay off a mortgage on an average house in Australia. But there's an elephant in the room. What about all those perfectly good houses just sitting empty across Australia? Could they be part of the solution? LiSTNR senior investigative journalist Claudianna Blanco joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to dig into the data and unpack what she's found. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E379 · Mon, August 19, 2024
Why can’t we seem to stop the global mpox spread? + Headlines
Is mpox (previously known as Monkeypox) a runaway train? The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared mpox a “public health emergency of international concern”, following a rise in the number of cases across the globe. The declaration triggers an international mobilisation of resources, including vaccination and testing, to try and slow down the spread of the disease. Rates in Australia are also continuing to rise, despite our best efforts to slow or stop them. Why can’t we get a grip on mpox rates in Australia – and does the growing rates of infection overseas mean numbers here will only continue to grow? Professor Andrew Grulich is the Head of the HIV Epidemiology and Prevention Program at the Kirby Institute. He joined Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to answer if he thinks state health departments are doing enough, and how the growing transmission rate might impact the global community going forward. Headlines: Tech entrepreneur missing after his luxury yacht sunk off Sicily The Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago The most common Aussies can’t afford a house 1 in 3 Aussies turn to socials for fin advice Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E378 · Mon, August 19, 2024
Racehorse Black Caviar had nine foals before she died. Was it too many?
One of the greatest racehorses of all time was euthanised after a short illness over the weekend. Australian thoroughbred Black Caviar was considered the world’s best sprinter, clocking up 25 wins for 25 starts over a career spanning 2009 to 2013. But the champion died over the weekend, a few days before her 18th birthday and reportedly just hours after giving birth to her ninth foal. The death has sparked a conversation questioning the ethics of forcing retired racehorses to pretty much constantly be pregnant and giving birth until they die. Walkley-winning author and investigative journalist Lucie Morris-Marr met Black Caviar during her retirement. She joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to share what she thinks following Black Caviars death. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E377 · Sun, August 18, 2024
Cruising might be causing a climate crisis + Headlines
Cruise ships have doubled in size in the last two decades - and so has their impact on the environment. A new report from European lobby group Transport and Environment is warning that by 2050, cruise ships will be eight times bigger than the Titanic and the industry’s emissions are getting “out of control”. So, is the cruising industry doing enough to address these concerns? And how might travelling by ship look like in the future? Australian Traveller’s Quentin Long joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on The Briefing to explain. Headlines: Antony Blinken arrives in Israel for Gaza ceasefire talks 20 scam websites being taken down a day by Asic Logies wrap up Man slapped in the face by a whale off NSW north coast Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E376 · Fri, August 16, 2024
Michael Theo's seven non-negotiables for Love On The Spectrum
We fell in love with Michael Theo on Love on the Spectrum and now he’s embarking on an exciting new career. Since the show Michael has been busy hosting his podcast, doing Ted Talks and now is jumping into the world of acting, staring in ABC’s series Austin. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Michael explains the important of neurodiverse representation on screen and how his search for love is going. Austin - Stream all episodes now on ABC iview: https://ab.co/Austin Weekend List TO WATCH - Scavengers Reign on Binge TO TRY - Nimble Activewear In tempo range for running TO EAT - Cashew Chicken from Recipe Tin Eats TO TRY - Epzen magnesium lotion and soak for running recovery TO EAT - Logan’s cucumber salad See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E375 · Fri, August 16, 2024
Baby food in Australia fails WHO standards. So what are they eating?
An alarming new study our this week has found no baby or toddler foods in Australian supermarkets meet World Health Organisation standards. But how can this be possible, and what does this actually mean? And is there anything the Australian government should be doing about it? Daisy Coyle is an Accredited Practicing Dietitian, Research Fellow at The George Institute and an author of the paper. She joined Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the findings, and to share her advice on what anyone with kids in their lives should consider following the results. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E374 · Thu, August 15, 2024
Brooke Schofield has been cancelled - but does that matter anymore?
Brooke Schofield has been cancelled. But in 2024, does that matter to anyone anymore? Since the term entered the zeitgeist, 'getting cancelled' was once the worst thing that could happen to a public figure – and for some it still is. But in 2024 how do we decide who gets cancelled, and does it even matter anymore? Cancel culture looks different for different people depending on their race, ethnicity, sex, gender and privilege - and when old tweets or posts online get resurfaced the response is swift and sometimes career ending. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Helen Smith to unpack where cancelling is at in 2024, following a spate of recent influencers and public figures feeling the sting. Headlines: Australian b-girl Rachel “Raygun” Gunn has broken her silence Gaza death toll passes 40,000 Five charged over Matthew Perry’s death NRL inducts first ever female players into the hall of fame Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E373 · Thu, August 15, 2024
Here's what happens if you ignore the government's travel advice
The federal government has advised Australians not to travel to Lebanon, and any Australians in Lebanon to return home due to a "volatile security situation and the risk of the security situation deteriorating further" in the region. There are currently 23 countries on Australia’s ‘do not travel’ list - places like North Korea, Russia, Mali, Myanmar and Bangladesh. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade says if you travel to those countries, you’re at a high risk of death, imprisonment, kidnapping or serious injury. But if you wanted to, could the government stop you going there? In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Dr David Bierman from the University of Technology in Sydney, who actually advises the government on travel warnings, to explain what happens if you ignore the government’s advice and visit a country on its ‘do not travel’ list. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E372 · Wed, August 14, 2024
The Wieambilla police massacre and criminally insanity
An inquest into the December 2022 Wieambilla police massacre has heard evidence the trio responsible – Gareth, Stacey and Nathaniel Train – would have been ruled morally insane and unfit to stand trial had they not been killed in a shootout. Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity is a legitimate legal defence in Australia and is thought to be used in as little as 1% of cases here. But what happens to those accused of some of the most serious crimes who escape jail time because of their mental fitness to stand trial? And can they ever be released back into society? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with criminal psychologist Tim Watson-Munro to learn more about what happens to the criminally insane in Australia. Headlines: Majority of Palestinians fleeing Gaza have had visas refused to Australia Stabbing victim identified as 11-year-old Australian girl NASA update on stuck astronauts Tassie mum gives birth on the toilet not knowing she was pregnant Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E371 · Wed, August 14, 2024
Raygun is breaking the internet. Is the criticism justified?
Everyone’s talking about Australian breaker Dr Rachael Gunn – aka Raygun – and her performance at the Paris Olympics less than a week ago. Some think she is a national treasure who should be celebrated for her representation of the Australian ‘give-it-a-go' attitude on the world stage. Others say she’s embarrassed the country with a lacklustre attempt at breaking, significantly hurting its chances of being included in future Olympics, as well as the perception of the sport in Australia. In the firestorm, how is the Australian breaking community fairing, and what do they think of the controversy that has unfolded? Michael Fox aka B-Boy Flyin Foxy is an Australian Allstar and breaking champion, teaches breaking at Melbourne Break Dance and has been involved in the community for over 20 years. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to give us his verdict on the performance, and what he thinks of the global conversation it has sparked. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E370 · Tue, August 13, 2024
Algorithms dictate everything we see. It's time to crack them
The algorithms that decide what we experience on social media, and on the internet in general, have a profound impact on the way we see the world. Yet giant companies like Meta and Google keep the details of these algorithms and how exactly they influence each of us a closely guarded secret. Now, researchers across the country are working to change that. Daniel Angus is Professor of Digital Communication at the Queensland University of Technology and is part of a research partnership involving universities around the country called the Australian Internet Observatory . He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack how they're beginning to crack the social media code. Headlines: Pilot of Cairns helicopter crash identified Calls to ban Aussies from southern Lebanon Melbourne bans e-scooters B-girls speak out about Raygun Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E369 · Tue, August 13, 2024
Breaking down Trump and Elon’s 'biggest interview in history'
Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has made a significant (and significantly delayed) return to social media platform X, formally known as Twitter, in a ‘live conversation’ with the platform's owner and tech billionaire Elon Musk. Well over 1 million people tuned in to listen to what unfolded. The two weren't always such good friends – Musk has previously called Trump “another bullshit artist”, and Trump has been openly skeptical of electric vehicle tech including Tesla's, another one of Musk’s key personal projects. But the two have reunited in a blaze of glory – or has it been madness? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert and Sacha Barbour Gatt bring you the what-you-need-to-know wrap of what was said, and how it might affect the 2024 US presidential race and the future of global democracy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E368 · Mon, August 12, 2024
What choosing to die looks like in Australia in 2024
A new report on Australia’s Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) laws was handed down in federal parliament on Monday - and it's found euthanasia is more widely accepted than ever before. Almost 2500 terminally ill patients have used VAD in Australia since 2019, with the average age of applicants between 70 and 79. As our parents and grandparents age, understanding what options are available and how to have the difficult discussion about when to choose to take your own life through VAD becomes more important than ever. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Dr Linda Swan from Go Gentle Australia, who delivered the report, to talk us through what euthanasia looks like in Australia in 2024. Lifeline 13 11 14 Headlines: Pressure to ban gambling ads Ukraine claims to control 1000sqm of Russian territory Trump told to stop questioning Harris’ crowd sizes Miley Cyrus becomes youngest Disney legend Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E367 · Mon, August 12, 2024
Can I sell my eggs and sperm for a profit? Part 2
Selling your sperm or eggs is illegal in Australia, and has been for a long time. Unlike other parts of the world, where you can make a considerable profit – in some cases up to $10,000 per egg cycle, and hundreds of dollars per sperm donation – in Australia we’re only able to participate in ‘altruistic donation’ of eggs and sperm, meaning donating with no personal profit and in a highly regulated system. But amidst a cost-of-living crisis and a shortage of donors, should we be rethinking these laws? In this two-part Briefing feature, Sacha Barbour Gatt explores the value that can be gained in selling a part of yourself for a profit. In this episode, she’s joined by Clinic Director Lotus Health and Psychology and Fertility Reproductive Counsellor Narelle Dickinson to explore the risks of making it legal in Australia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E366 · Sun, August 11, 2024
Can I sell my eggs and sperm for a profit? Part 1
Selling your sperm or eggs is illegal in Australia, and has been for a long time. Unlike other parts of the world, where you can make a considerable profit – in some cases up to $10,000 per egg cycle, and hundreds of dollars per sperm donation – in Australia we’re only able to participate in ‘altruistic donation’ of eggs and sperm, meaning donating with no personal profit and in a highly regulated system. But amidst a cost-of-living crisis and a shortage of donors, should we be rethinking these laws? In this two-part Briefing feature, Sacha Barbour Gatt explores the value that can be gained in selling a part of yourself for a profit. In this episode, she’s joined by Senior Research Fellow in Global and Women's Health at Monash University Karin Hammarberg, who has worked in IVF programs for 20 years, to explore what it might look like if we changed the laws in Australia. Headlines: 2024 Paris Olympics wraps up Ukrainian troops advance inside Russia Close to 100 people killed in Israeli air strike in southern Gaza Joe Biden gives first interview since dropping out Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E365 · Fri, August 09, 2024
Amy Shark on songwriting for TikTok and keeping up with the Kardashians
Amy Shark is one of Australia’s biggest names in pop music. When she changed her name to Amy Shark in 2013 her career took off, winning multiple ARIA Awards and working with Ed Sheeran to Keith Urban. Shark's new album, Sunday Sadness, features a dream line up of producers and artists including Kid Harpoon, who has produced and co-written with Harry Styles and Miley Cyrus. For this episode of The Weekend Briefing, Shark joins Helen Smith to break down how she thinks the live music scene has changed over the last decade, and who she ran into backstage at while preforming on The Late Late Show with James Corden. Weekend List TO WATCH - Taskmaster New Zealand on Binge TO DO - DIY Nail dip set TO EAT - One pot Spinach and Ricotta Rotolo (Italian Lasagna Roll Ups) from Recipe Tin Eats TO EAT - Latin American restaurant near you Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E364 · Fri, August 09, 2024
North Korea is playing diplomatic gymnastics at the Olympics
There was a bit of a media frenzy at the Paris games recently when North Korean athletes posed for selfies with South Korean competitors at the gymnastics. Those same athletes were also spotted cheering for American rivals, hugging competitors and waving and smiling for tv cameras. There has been cautious optimism that the usually hermit-like North is finally starting to open up to the world after a period of extreme isolation. But how much of this display at the Olympics is diplomatic gymnastics, carefully planned and carried out as positive PR for the totalitarian state? In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Roald Maliangkay, associate professor in Korean studies and director of the Korea Institute at the Australian National University to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E363 · Thu, August 08, 2024
Two astronauts are still stuck in space. Can we get them down?
Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore have been in the International Space Station (ISS) since early June – and they can’t get down. The pair have been stranded in space for over 60 days due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft – and NASA now says they'll remain there for some time yet. The American space agency says the astronauts will remain orbiting the planet till September 24th at earliest, and potentially until February next year. What went so wildly wrong as to extend an eight-day mission out to what could be eight months? And what’s it going be like to be stuck there with no solid return date. Dr Rebecca Allen is co-director of the Swinburne Space Technology and Industry Institute and joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to explain what happens next. Headlines: Australia has added to its medal haul overnight in Paris Man arrested over alleged terror attack plot at Taylor Swift concert AUKUS deal officially signed Donald Trump confirms he will debate Kamala Harris Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E362 · Thu, August 08, 2024
Macca's is McFlopping. Is the global economy in a pickle?
McDonald’s is an economic juggernaut. Since its inception in the 1940s, the golden arches have dominated the fast food market globally, becoming a beacon of success. But is the seemingly never-ending fast food honeymoon with them, and other outlets around the globe, over? McDonalds has reported experiencing its first downturn in years, and it’s not the only one – recently US burger chain Carl’s Junior, which had ambitions to open hundreds of outlets across Australia, collapsed into voluntary administration. So, what the hell is going on? What does this say about the immediate future of the global economy, and what does it say about us as consumers? Mitchell Taylor is a partner at Simon-Kucher, a global strategy consulting firm focusing on growth strategy, marketing, pricing, and sales. He joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to shed a light on what this might mean for our global economy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E361 · Wed, August 07, 2024
What the Olympics and shoplifting have in common
Artificial intelligence is colliding with elite sport and mega-events like the Olympics in ways that could soon affect our daily lives, in surprising ways. AI is being used to identify talented future Olympians around the world, to help coaches identify minute flaws in athletic performance, and to improve training. But it’s also seriously ramping up state surveillance of crowds, and for all its amazing uses AI also has some big fundamental problems, like reliability issues and bias. So what should be the role of this kind of technology at a global mega-event like the Olympics? And what does its use there tell us about the future of AI in our own daily lives. On this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert speaks with Ari Waldman, an expert in the ethics of artificial intelligence and big data, to find out. Headlines: Another golden night in Paris Childcare pay rise Harris and Walz tour as Trump reacts to running mate pick Dog perfume for $165 a bottle Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E360 · Wed, August 07, 2024
Oat, full cream, soy: should you be drinking milk?
Previously, dairy milk was viewed as an irreplaceable part of a balanced diet. But things are more complicated now, and Australians are drinking less of it. So why the shift? Is it due to greater awareness of lactose intolerance, concerns over animal welfare, or environmental considerations? And how do dairy milk alternatives, such as soy, almond or oat milk compare for health and sustainability? In this episode, The Briefing’s Simon Beaton is joined by farmer and author of Milk , Matthew Evans, to find out more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E359 · Tue, August 06, 2024
Teenage terrorists - Australia's radicalisation problem
ASIO and the federal government announced on Monday that Australia’s terror threat level had increased from 'possible' to 'probable'. Part of the reasoning - an increase in young men being radicalised. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said “governments around the world are concerned about youth radicalisation, online radicalisation and the rise of new mixed ideologies”. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Levi West from the ANU’s Centre for Social Policy Research to find out how and why young men in particular get radicalised, and what’s being done to stop it. Headlines: The youngest Aussie medal winner ever Kamala Harris picks running mate Global markets show signs of recovery Judge rules Google has a monopoly on internet searches Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E358 · Tue, August 06, 2024
Why the stock market is crashing and what it means for you
Are you in need of a go-to explainer on what the hell is going on with the stock market and how it could affect you? This time last week, everything was coming up Milhouse for Australian investors. The Australian Stock Exchange – or ASX – hit yet another record high after months of relatively consistent growth. But since Friday markets across the globe have been tumbling, and $100 billion has been wiped off the value of Australian shares alone. Dr Angela Jackson is Lead Economist at Impact Economics - she joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to break down what it all means for you. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E357 · Mon, August 05, 2024
Baghdad Nights: How Australia funnelled $300 million to a dictator
September 11, the Iraq War and John Howard’s prime ministership were among the most pivotal news events of the early 2000’s. But did you know that during that same period, Australia lived through its biggest corruption scandal – where Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein was paid kickbacks for lucrative Australian wheat contracts? Today, investigative reporter Richard Baker launches a major new LiSTNR podcast, Secrets We Keep: Baghdad Nights , diving deep into the scandal, offering new revelations and focusing on the humanity of the people caught up in it. He joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to reflect on how Australia’s politics and media can fail to capture the nuance of a major scandal, and the lessons he’s learned getting to know the real people involved. Headlines: Olympics Update Stock market plunge over US recession fears The national terror threat level raised from ‘possible’ to ‘probable’ Bangladeshi PM flees the country Kamala Harris set to unveil her running mate Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E356 · Mon, August 05, 2024
Why we're chickening out of a ban on gambling ads
Yesterday, Nine Newspapers reported the government was about to walk away from a near-total ban on gambling ads across the country, to instead focus on banning gambling ads from social media and other digital platforms. The new plan for TV would reportedly be caps on the number of gambling ads per hour and banning them an hour before and after live sport. The reported proposal – which goes against the plan originally designed and championed by Labor’s Peta Murphy, who died last year – has prompted outrage on both sides of the debate. Anti-gambling advocates say the new proposal doesn’t go nearly far enough, while the big players in this conversation, sporting bodies, say banning gambling ads threatens revenue that funds grassroots and free-to-air sport. Media companies, including NewsCorp and Nine, argue such a ban threatens jobs. David Pocock is in a unique position to deeply understand this issue—he's both a former Rugby Union star and an independent senator for the ACT. He joined Bension Siebert to explain why the news has made him angry and what he thinks the government should do about gambling ads going forward. This episode mentions suicide. If you or anyone you know needs help, please reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E355 · Sun, August 04, 2024
Your new AI 'Friend', or foe?
Would you wear an ‘always-on’ AI chatbot buddy around your neck to keep you company? Meet your newest ‘ Friend ’. Picture a small, white pendant – kind of like an Apple AirTag, about the size of a button large – enclosed in a necklace so it sits perfectly at your chest. It’s watching, listening, and ready to chat to you all day, every day. A user wears their ‘Friend’, talks to it with the press of a button, and then the chatbot responds via text through the app. The point of the ‘Friend’ is simply to keep people company, but what are the implications of technology you wear and talk to 24/7, and what does its creation say about who we are becoming as a society? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by the lead engineer of Friend, Jackson Mowatt Gok, to explain why it's been created, and what he hopes it will achieve. Headlines: Olympics wrap Makarrata Commission scrapped by Albanese government US recession fears spook stock market French pole vaulter talks after going viral for one ‘big’ reason Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E354 · Fri, August 02, 2024
Daizy Maan Kaur is a shameless brown comedian
Daizy Maan Kaur is full of surprises and her name is one of them. She’s the founder of Brown Women Comedy and Soul house with a mission to create more inclusive spaces for south Asian and migrant women. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Daizy reveals where her comedic side came from and why she legally changed her name when she was just thirteen. Weekend List TO DO - Short term goal setting planners TO EAT - Paddle pops TO READ - Meet the queen of the ‘trad wives’ (and her eight children) by Megan Agnew in The Times TO WEAR - Hair tie for a belt TO WATCH - Customise your Olympics experience Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E353 · Fri, August 02, 2024
Sex testing and the Olympics. How do we make sport fair?
Overnight, Italy’s Angela Carini abruptly withdrew from her Paris Olympics boxing match against Algeria's Imane Khelif, saying she’s never felt a punch as hard as the one Khelif delivered to her nose in that match. Khelif had previously been disqualified from last year’s World Boxing Championships after failing a gender eligibility test, and the debate surrounding the withdrawal has added fuel to an already toxic conversation about the role of sex and gender in sport. The science has been clear for a long time - sex and gender are anything but binary. But how should we draw the line, to keep what is an inescapably physical competition fair for everyone involved? Eric Windholz is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Law at Monash University and an expert in the law and regulation of sport. He joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to unpack how sex testing became a part of the Olympics in the first place, and the challenge global sport is facing to reconcile science with fairness in world-class competition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E352 · Thu, August 01, 2024
Why hasn't netball had its Matildas moment?
The Suncorp Super Netball Grand Final is happening tomorrow, with the Adelaide Thunderbirds facing off against the Melbourne Vixens at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. The Thunderbirds hoping to win back-to-back titles and its set to be a thrilling game. This season has been the most attended in the history of Australian women’s sport, with a record-breaking 331,841 fans, marking a 25% increase from last year. But despite national and International appeal, a developing game and high profile stars, why hasn’t netball had a ‘Matildas moment’? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by former player turned TV commentator Bianca Chatfield to hear all about tomorrow’s grand final, and how netball plans to make the most of the surge in interest in women’s sport. Headlines: Another successful night at the Olympics Russia prisoner swap Trump’s race comments trigger bipartisan criticism Mercury could be covered in diamonds Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E351 · Thu, August 01, 2024
Kylie Moore-Gilbert on Israel, Iran, Hamas and Hezbollah
Iran has vowed “revenge” on Israel and negotiations to end the war in Gaza have been thrown into doubt after the killing of a Hamas leader in Iran. Meanwhile, Australians have been urged to leave Lebanon as fighting between Israel and Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah escalates. In the last few weeks, fears of a widening conflict have grown. So why are Israel and Iran at each other’s throats? And are we really at the precipice of all-out war in the region? Kylie Moore-Gilbert is an expert in middle eastern politics. She joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on The Briefing to break down the recent increase in violence, and what she thinks is on the horizon. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E350 · Wed, July 31, 2024
Are 'tradwives' dangerous?
Is your social media serving you ‘tradwife’ – or traditional wife – content? These creators embrace a ‘traditional existence’, which includes being a wife, mother and homemaker, making things like sourdough to bubble gum from scratch, and honouring a nuclear family, their husband and God. Big names, including Nara Smith, Estee Williams and Ballerina Farm AKA Hannah Neeleman, are amassing millions of likes and views making tradwife content that some see as an innocent escape from modern life, while others believe to be glamourising power imbalances in traditional gender roles. Megan Agnew is a senior features writer from The Times. Her interview with one of the most iconic tradwives, Ballerina Farm , has forced discourse on the topic offline and into the real world. She joins The Briefing’s Helen Smith to discuss the public debate its created, and if this is women’s “Andrew Tate moment”. Headlines: Another golden night in Paris for the Aussies Iran vows revenge over Hanas leader killing Threats to Australia’s politicians have almost doubled Diet and exercise as beneficial as therapy for mild depression Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E349 · Wed, July 31, 2024
Will Rex's collapse make flying more expensive?
Rex Airlines has gone into voluntary administration. Has it been bullied out of the market by its competitors? The airline has grounded its fleet of 737 aircraft that service capital cities and will continue to fly its Saab 340 flights between regional centres. Rex employs about 2000 people and their jobs and futures are uncertain, as calls across the country come for the government to step in in some way to help. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Robyn Ironside, aviation writer for the Australian newspaper, to discuss what this development means for regional travel and ticket prices going forward. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E348 · Tue, July 30, 2024
Who will be Kamala’s VP?
Usually, nominating a vice president doesn’t have a huge effect on an average US presidential race - but this is no average US presidential race. Donald Trump has his pick – self-proclaimed hillbilly JD Vance. Now that Kamala Harris has gone from VP to Democratic presidential nominee, how will she choose her running mate? In this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by US political watcher, comedian, and co-host of Planet America Chas Licciardello to unpack the potential options on the table, and what impact they might make on the race. Headlines: Rex goes into liquidation IDF launches strikes on Lebanon Methane report Olympic update - More gold in the pool Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E347 · Tue, July 30, 2024
Why the world's uncontacted tribes don't want to know us
There are a lot of misunderstandings about the world’s uncontacted tribes - communities that are indigenous to the land they live on and reject any contact with the outside world. The idea that they’re primitive or “stuck in the Stone Age” are outdated notions, with advocates passionately defending their place in the world and their freedom to choose how they want to live. Today The Briefing's Sacha Barbour Gatt busts the commonly held myths about uncontacted tribes, and the fight underway to ensure their protection and survival. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E346 · Mon, July 29, 2024
They knew, 50 years ago: Australia's big climate cover-up revealed
Who betrayed Australia on climate change? In this episode of the Briefing, Bension sits down with journalist and author Royce Kurmelovs to discuss his investigation into what Australia’s fossil fuel industry knew about climate change more than 50 years ago. Royce describes how the industry managed to win the support of Australia’s governments and media to cover it up for so long. But he also makes a powerful argument for hope in the face of all the grim statistics we hear about the climate crisis today. Royce’s new book, Slick: Australia’s toxic relationship with Big Oil , is available now. Headlines: O'Callaghan and Titmus take out gold and silver in 200m freestyle Rising tensions between Israel and militant group Hezbollah. New developments in US politics Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E345 · Mon, July 29, 2024
Breaking into the Olympics (literally)
Breaking has, for the first time ever, danced its way into the Olympic Games. Spectators in Paris and around the world will watch as B-girls and B-boys windmill, 6-step, and freeze their way to gold, silver or bronze. But what does ‘good’ breakdancing look like, and what's been the journey to the sport's debut in Paris? The Briefing’s Helen Smith is joined by B-girl Hannah Belet to break down what a gold medal breaking performance might look like, and which competitors she thinks are the ones to watch. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E344 · Sun, July 28, 2024
The internet might be dying. Is shrimp Jesus to blame?
Could bad bots on social media be leading to the death of the internet? You might have come across a weird AI generated images of ‘shrimp Jesus’, or similarly strange content on Facebook, often linked with absurdly high numbers of likes and comments. It all connects with the ‘dead internet’ theory – the idea that bot created content is accounting for more and more of what is being posted online. So, is there truth to the theory - and are we watching the death of the internet in real time? In this episode of the Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Joel Pearson from Future Minds Lab at UNSW to explain the bizarre world of artificial intelligence and bad bots. Headlines: Jess Fox has won gold Israel announces strikes on Hezbollah Cabinet reshuffle Olympics wrap Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E343 · Fri, July 26, 2024
Tim Minchin wants you to stop policing opinions online
Tim Minchin thinks policing other people's opinions online is a waste of time. He’s a talented musician and author, who’s smart, has great teeth and was even given three honorary doctorates. His thought provoking ideas on everything from empathy and identity, to why Australia can’t fall into the trap of far-right America is fascinating. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Tim unpacks the meaning behind his latest anthem and his first nonfiction book, You Don’t Have To Have A Dream (Advice for the Incrementally Ambitious). You can pre-order Tim's book here Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E342 · Fri, July 26, 2024
Childless cat ladies are trending in US politics
Polls released in the US overnight show the presidential election campaign is neck and neck. Kamala Harris, who has all but secured the Democratic nomination after Joe Biden dropped out of the race, is surging in the polls. Donald Trump and his VP pick, JD Vance, know they have a fight on their hands - and it doesn’t help that in 2021 Vance said of VP Harris that ‘the nation is being run by childless cat ladies’. The comments have angered Democrat supporters, including Friends star Jennifer Aniston, have come out in support of Harris saying a woman’s choice to have or not have children is no one else’s business, alongside family support groups quick to point out that Harris has two stepchildren. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Emma Shortis from The Australia Institute to discuss the fallout from Vance’s comments, and what the latest polls mean for November’s race for the White House. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E341 · Thu, July 25, 2024
The Olympics begin! Here’s what you need to know
The 2024 Paris Olympics begin tomorrow morning our time. The 33rd hosting of the summer games will feature 329 events in 32 sports. More than 10 and a half thousand athletes from 206 nations will participate. The Opening Ceremony begins at 3.30am Saturday AEST. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha and Bension break down what you need to know to be an uber Olympics fan - from breakdancing to BMX, and from canoeing to taekwondo. Headlines: Olympics wrap Biden and Netanyahu meet Roundup ruling Searches for gynecology went up after Barbie movie Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E340 · Thu, July 25, 2024
Getting a puppy? How to know your breeder is a good one
Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with around 70% of households owning one. While choosing to bring a puppy or kitten into your home is an exciting time, the sad reality is a lot of these pets come from farms, mills and backyard breeders. Just 15% of puppies purchased every year are thought to be from reputable breeders. This week a puppy farm was shut down in Tasmania after the RSPCA found evidence of severe over breeding. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Sarah Zito from the RSPCA to find out the best ways to spot a good breeder from a bad one. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E339 · Wed, July 24, 2024
Why the Government has cut off internet in Bangladesh
Imagine having no internet – well that’s exactly what's happening in Bangladesh right now for over 170 million people since the government has cuff online connectivity. In the last week 10s of thousands of young people have been protesting throughout Bangladesh with reports of more than 146 people being killed during marches. In this episode of the Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by John Heidemann, a senior computer scientist at the University of Southern California and internet expert, to unpack the protests and explain how serious this outrage is. Headlines: Benjamin Netanyahu addresses US Congress Doctors try to reattach shark bite victim’s leg after it washes up House prices up for a sixth straight quarter Aussie flag bearers named Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E338 · Wed, July 24, 2024
Is 'dark oxygen' the secret to life?
In the dark depths, four kilometres below the surface of the Pacific Ocean, scientists have found small clumps of rocks producing oxygen. Previously scientists believed oxygen was created by living things using energy from the sun, so the idea of 'black oxygen' has thrown a curveball into our theory of how life on Earth may have began. It also begs the question - could life dependent on oxygen be more common outside of Earth? Joining The Briefing to talk through what we know about the discovery, is science communicator and author of How to Save the Whole Blinkin' Planet , Lee Constable. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E337 · Tue, July 23, 2024
Why are our pollies heading to the mines?
Politicians and jobs in the mining sector seem to go hand in hand - with former New South Wales premier Dominic Perrottet and former Western Australian premier Mark McGowan both making the jump. But mining is a huge part of the Australian job landscape, with over 1.2m people employed in the industry and the top jobs pay extremely well - so what’s wrong with a former pollie jumping out of government and into a role in the sector? In this episode of The Briefing, Executive Director of the Australia Institute Richard Denniss joins Bension Siebert to unpack how pollies are jumping ship so easily, and if that’s for better or worse for all of us. Headlines: Kamala Harris gives first campaign speech New charges against Beau Lamarre-Condon It was the world’s hottest day ever on Sunday Snoop Dogg to carry the Olympic torch Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E336 · Tue, July 23, 2024
Gen Z is a lonely generation. Is ' social prescribing' the cure?
Young Australians are living in a world more connected than ever before, thanks to social media. But an increasing number of 15- to 24-year-olds are experiencing loneliness and feelings of social isolation. There’s been a steady rise over the years particularly since 2008, and a further spike in loneliness rates in 2020 – due to the effects of the COVID pandemic. So, what are the experts suggesting we should do to help? Social prescribing has been flagged as a possible solution, which involves the referral of patients to non-medical activities, like health and fitness clubs to art classes. The Briefing’s Simon Beaton is joined by LiSTNR journalist Loren Howarth to unpack the details. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E335 · Mon, July 22, 2024
Katy Perry to Chappell Roan: What the new pop renaissance says about us
Female made and focused pop music is having a revolution. Why is the happy and light 2000’s pop sound from the likes of Katy Perry out, and the complex and heavy pop of Chappel Roan and Charlie XCX in, and what does it say about where society is at the moment? In this episode of the Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Nic Kelly, host of The Hot Hits on the Hit Network and LiSTNR, to unpack what is happening in pop right now. Headlines: Kamala Harris firms up as favourite to take over presidential nomination for the Democrats Dozens killed in Gaza after IDF orders evacuation Stegosaurus fossil sells for $68 million Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E334 · Mon, July 22, 2024
Who is Kamala Harris - and can she beat Trump?
Joe Biden has announced that he’s dropping out of the race for the 2024 US presidential election. In making the announcement he also endorsed his Vice President, Kamala Harris, to take his spot for the top role. She's since confirmed that she’s up for the challenge and wants to ‘earn and win’ the right to stand against Donald Trump in November. But who is Kamala Harris? What does she stand for? And will she gain enough support to win the next US election just a few months away? Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Christian Paz, Senior Political Reporter from Vox, to catch you up to speed on Kamala Harris and what we can expect next from the US Democratic Party. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E333 · Sun, July 21, 2024
Joe Biden has announced he won't run in November
Joe Biden has announced he won't run at this year's 2024 presidential election. It will set off a race for the Democratic nomination - with Biden formally endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris in his message posted on X overnight. Also in this episode of The Briefing: During the long, cold winter months in Australia, a quick scroll of your social media feed can feel like you’ve stumbled into an ad for the Amalfi coast or London. Aussies love a European getaway in the middle of the year, and the popularity of these trips has surged in the wake of Covid travel restrictions. But is our love affair with Europe on the decline? And what are the next “it” destinations for Aussie travellers? In today’s episode of The Briefing, we chat to Australian Traveller’s Quentin Long to find out. Headlines: Joe Biden stands down Father and baby killed at Sydney train station Oscar Piastri wins maiden GP victory Damages from tech outage to hit the billions Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E332 · Fri, July 19, 2024
Frances Rings’ first language is dance
For Frances Rings dance is her first language. Since childhood Frances has always know dance would be part of her identity and in 2023 she was appointed the Artistic director of Bangarra Dance Theatre - making her childhood dreams a reality. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Frances unpacks her journey from a working class family that couldn't afford dance lessons to her first production as leader of Bangarra. Weekend List TO EAT - Meatless Mondays and alliteration TO WATCH - Abbott Elementary on Disney+ TO TRY - Going off social media and a dump phone TO TRY - Good running shoes Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E331 · Fri, July 19, 2024
Trump speaks and Biden's last stand: America's crazy week in politics
It’s been an absolutely batshit crazy week in American politics. Donald Trump has accepted the Republican nomination to be president, days after surviving an attempted assassination. Then, at the Republican National Convention which has been dominating headlines this week, Trump has named J.D. Vance, a man who once described Trump as “America’s Hitler”, as his nominee for Vice President. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with COVID, just as former President Barack Obama weighs in on whether he should withdraw from the race. To make sense of the wild week that was, and consider what happens next, Bension Siebert is joined by Editor-in-Chief of Raw Story Dave Levinthal, live from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E330 · Thu, July 18, 2024
Why JFK's hot grandson is Vogue's new political correspondent
Meet Jack Schlossberg, a self-described silly goose, John F. Kennedy’s only grandson, social media sensation and Vogues’ newly appointed political correspondent. So what does this nepo baby from one of the world's most famous political families have to say about politics. In this episode of the Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Entertainment guru and host of LiSTNR’s The Streaming Service to unpack the logic behind his viral internet persona. Headlines: Biden reportedly more receptive to stepping down 12.9 million Aussies had data stolen in MediSecure hack Peggy and Molly to get their own cartoon Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E329 · Thu, July 18, 2024
If you could get paid leave for period pain, would you take it?
There are growing calls for Australian women to receive paid menstrual, menopausal and reproductive leave – separate from sick leave. Queensland public servants will receive an extra 10 days of paid leave per year, while public and community sector workers in Victoria could also soon benefit. Now unions are campaigning for a universal paid 10 days leave, so all workers can take time off to manage fertility treatments, menstruation and breast screening. So, is Australia ready for the change? And could the policy eventually be introduced into the Fair Work Act? To find out more, Bension Siebert is joined in the studio by LiSTNR journalist Loren Howarth. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E328 · Wed, July 17, 2024
Why star signs are now part of your nightly news bulletin
Australia's media sector has been rocked by mass sackings over the last month. The culling started at Seven and continued a week later at Nine. Many of those redundancies were in the respective newsrooms. Even nightly news hosts were let go. Then Seven decided to shake up its flagship 6pm bulletins with a weekly Friday night comedy segment and daily horoscopes. The move had many in the industry shaking their heads in disbelief. So what the heck is happening to nightly news? The Briefing's Executive Producer Dan Mullins has over 25 years' experience in radio and television. In today's deep dive, he sits down with Colin Vickery, a TV and entertainment expert with more than 30 years experience. Headlines: CFMEU prepares to fight federal intervention Biden calls for assault rifle ban as he returns to campaign trail Andrew Forrest to cut 700 Fortescue jobs Last night’s epic State of Origin decider Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E327 · Wed, July 17, 2024
Think before you ink - why the tattoo removal trend is rising
Are you one of the 30% of Aussies who have a tattoo? The majority of those who have one - 57% - are getting their first ink aged 18-24. There's a growing trend of people having their tattoos removed - could the early age we're starting getting tatted be behind that increase? Within Australia, the world’s leading tattoo removal company Removery has experienced a growth of 30% in removal treatments within the past year, with the current laser removal options safer, more effective and more accessible than ever before. It’s National Tattoo Day, so for this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by Jo Kelton, founder and COO of Removery to find out how and why people are getting their ink removed – and if they’re going clean skin or getting fresh art instead. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E326 · Tue, July 16, 2024
The bin fire that is the Victorian branch of the CFMEU
There's drama unfolding with one of the county's most powerful organisations - the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU). Dodgy contracts, bikie infiltration, compromised characters and Labor government headaches. It's one of Australia's largest and most influential unions and it could face the prospect of a Royal commission into its dealings privately and with the Government. It's a huge story - but what exactly is the CFMEU, and why is this such a big deal? To find out we're joined by Seven's Victorian State Political Reporter Sharnelle Vella. Headlines: What the Trump shooter did in his final days Man who killed two Australians in the Philippines hands himself in Tenacious D cancels rest of Australian tour Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E325 · Tue, July 16, 2024
Why Brazilian model and wellness influencer Kat Torres is going to jail
Influencers behaving badly isn’t new, but are we seeing an increase in social media star being accused of, or charged, with serious crimes of late? In the past 24 hours, wellness influencer Kat Torres, who escaped a life of poverty in Brazil to become a successful model and social media star has reportedly been sentenced to eight years in prison for the human trafficking and enslavement. So how has Torres gone from partying with the likes of Leonardo Di Caprio to jail time? The Briefing’s Helen Smith joined Bension Siebert to take us through the stories of some of the most prominent stars falling foul of the law, and the series allegations being made about Kat Torres. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E324 · Mon, July 15, 2024
Sudan is a country at the brink
A catastrophe is unfolding in Sudan right now. Nearly 26 million people are facing crisis levels of hunger, cholera is rampant and many trying to find safety have experienced horrific sexual violence including rape and abduction on their journeys. To conflict stems from the dictatorship of Omar al-Bashir, a pro-democracy revolution against him led by young people five years ago and a power struggle between Sudanese military and a rival militia called the Rapid Support Forces, which kicked off in April. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Sara Sinada, who has family in the region and works as a disaster risk manager for the humanitarian organisation Plan International to explain the situation, and what those watching from afar in Australia can do to help. You can donate to Plan's appeal here https://www.plan.org.au/appeal/sudan-crisis/ Headlines: Trump documents case dismissed Israeli strike on Gaza school kills 22 WA introduce some of Australia’s toughest-ever liquor laws A Royal updates Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E323 · Mon, July 15, 2024
Heavy metals have been found in tampons. What happens next?
Its a research result that has left tampon users across the globe stunned. A team of scientists from U.C. Berkeley, Columbia University and Michigan State University evaluated 30 tampons from 14 different brands and 18 product lines to measure the presence of 16 metals. The findings? All the tampons the researchers tested had all 16 metals in measurable traces, including lead and arsenic. How has this happened – how worried should tampon users be – and are people who use them all over the world being subtly poisoned when they use one? Dr Jenni Shearston, an environmental epidemiologist at the University of California Berkeley and co-author of this study, joined Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain the findings. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E322 · Sun, July 14, 2024
The attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump
The world is reeling from the shocking attempted assassination of Donald Trump over the weekend. In this episode of the Briefing, we bring you everything you need to know, including: The latest details on the attack The identity and background of the gunman What this means for the US election What happens next In the second half, we have our deep dive into the surging Australian dollar - which is good news for anyone planning to travel overseas. But it's also impacting the economy back home. We’re joined by Angel Zhong, a senior lecturer in finance in the School of Economics, Finance and Marketing, at Melbourne’s RMIT. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E321 · Fri, July 12, 2024
Malcolm Turnbull unfiltered: world leaders, thugs and complex characters
Since leaving politics Malcolm Turnbull hasn't slowed down, or stopped sharing his opinions on politics in Australia and the world, the state of the environment, and his opinions on some of his former colleagues. The 29th Australian Prime Minister has launched the new season of his podcast, Defending Democracy, where he tackles the global democratic moment the world is watching - Donald Trump vs Joe Biden - as well as misinformation and international political relationships to Australia. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Malcolm shares his views on current world leaders including Biden and Netanyahu, the incoming US election, and why we need to keep defending democracy. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E320 · Fri, July 12, 2024
Biden’s big press conference - will he survive the weekend?
US President Joe Biden has mistakenly introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as “President Putin” on stage at the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) summit, at a ceremony marking the signing of a security agreement for Ukraine. The gaffe came after what was meant to be a rousing speech from Biden on NATO’s enduring support for Ukraine in it’s war with Russia. It was a bad start to a day that might make or break his political career, as he also followed the NATO summit by facing his first press conference with live questions from journalists in several months. Is this the final straw for Joe Biden's campaign, or will he continue to fight for the chance to beat Donald Trump at the election in November? Matt Bevan, Journalist and host of America, If You’re Listening, joined Bension Siebert on The Briefing to give us his verdict. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E319 · Thu, July 11, 2024
Could the next Dalai Lama be reincarnated in Australia?
Tibet’s highest religious leader, the Dalai Lama, has just celebrated his 89th birthday. And though he’s prophesied that he’ll live to 111, questions are being asked about what his succession plan will be. And considering Tibet’s struggle of control and independence against China, who replaces him will have large consequences for many people. But given the Buddhist belief that the Dalai Lama will be reincarnated, how will we know where his replacement will be found? Could they be here in Australia? Or is there a chance that the current Dalai Lama could be the last? In this episode, The Briefing’s Simon Beaton speaks with Tibetan Buddhism expert John Powers to find out. Headlines: Australian couple found dead in luxury hotel in the Philippines NATO summit in Washington is wrapping up today Shelly Duvall dies Aussie CEOs made less in 2023/24 Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E318 · Thu, July 11, 2024
What's in Australia's first national prison newspaper? Hopes and dreams
Australia is getting its very first national prison newspaper – About Time . It's aim is to be distributed to every prison cell in the country, and it's publishers will focus on issues that affect incarcerated people – including changes to criminal laws and the justice system, new cases that affect prisoner's rights, new policies and procedures inside prisons – alongside prisoners lives, hopes and dreams. In this episode of The Briefing, the paper’s managing director and publisher Joseph Friedman joins Bension Siebert to find out why he thinks prisoners should have a voice, and what he hopes the paper can achieve. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E317 · Wed, July 10, 2024
Exclusive: Uni Melb students speak out on their surveillance
The world watched as earlier this year footage of students across the world mobilised to protest against Israel’s ongoing killing of defenceless Palestinian citizens, particularly children. Longstanding encampments were established at university campuses across America and here in Australia, popping up across Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane and Melbourne. Students at Melbourne University staged a sit-in and encampment in a campus building, refusing to leave until university leadership agreed it would disclose any links to weapons manufacturers who may be providing weapons being used by the Israeli Defence Force. Since the sit-in's end, students who participated have reported being asked to attend disciplinary hearings for their conduct during the protests, with WiFi data and CCTV footage of them on campus being used as evidence of their participation. Kareem Zaghlool is a postgraduate medical student nearing the end of his degree and Zara Chauvin Cunningham is a second-year science student and is also Jewish. In this exclusive episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf sits down with the two students to find out how they feel about being tracked and spied on, despite the university pledging it wouldn’t use tech to track them. The Briefing contacted the Victorian Information Commissioner and the University of Melbourne for comment for this story, who provided the following statements: Sean Morrison, Victorian Information Commissioner: “The OVIC is making preliminary enquiries with University of Melbourne regarding this matter. This information will assist OVIC in assessing whether or not an investigation proceeds. It would not be appropriate for OVIC to provide further comment given the preliminary nature of its involvement. OVIC is unlikely to comment on where matters do not proceed from a preliminary inquiry to an investigation.” A University of Melbourne spokesperson said: “The University is currently progressing a range of matters in relation to student conduct. We will not be commenting on individual matters, in line with our confidentiality requirements and our commitment to procedural fairness under University policy. The University is in direct communication with individuals as required in relation to these matters.” Regarding peaceful protests, Professor Nicola Phillips, Provost said: “Freedom of speech is foundational to our values and policies at the University of Melbourne. We have consistently stated that we recognise the right of students and staff to participate in peaceful protest.” Headlines: Further pressure for Biden to drop out of presidential race Meth, cocaine and nicotine at record highs around Australia De Minaur pulls out of Wimbledon, with Olympics now uncertain Kirsha Kaechele reveals th
S5 E316 · Wed, July 10, 2024
Russel Howcroft on why it sucks to be a 30-year-old right now
Every generation thinks they have it tougher than their predecessors. But arguably, 30-year-olds in Australia right now actually do. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Russel Howcroft, a 59-year-old businessman you may recognise from the ABC TV show The Gruen Transfer, to explain why he thinks we need to talk about why millennials really do have it tough. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E315 · Tue, July 09, 2024
'An integral part': the case for sex work to remain on the NDIS
NDIS Minister Bill Shorten has promised to ban funding sex work services for people with disability under the national disability insurance scheme. However, the promise has been met with backlash from advocates saying that sexual intimacy is a human right with the the federal court deeming the funding reasonable and necessary just four years ago. Bension Siebert is joined by Oliver Morton-Evans, who has cerebral palsy and has himself used paid sex work to help him experience sexual intimacy, to explain why sex work services are important for people under the NDIS, and why his work with Touching Base is so important. Headlines: New report shows 1 in 5 Aussies have committed sexual violence Distressing CCTV footage of police repeatedly striking an Indigenous teenager has been revealed Jillian Segel AO appointed to combat antisemitism Australia accuses Chinese spy agency of cyber attacks Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E314 · Tue, July 09, 2024
Has the world heard the last of France's far-right movement?
French voters have stunned the world by turning their back on the country’s far-right in an election result few saw coming. France's left-wing parties formed a coalition and is projected to win the second round of a parliamentary election - beating the far-right. President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist bloc appears to have held up quite well. However, no group looks set for a majority. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Dr Romain Fathi from ANU to talk through the global implications of France’s stunning election result, and what it means for the future of President Macron and his far-right nemesis, Marine Le Pen. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E313 · Mon, July 08, 2024
The missing children of Gaza
The war in the Middle East continues to impact hundreds of thousands of innocent people, with Save The Children now estimating more than 21,000 children are missing in the wake of the conflict. Many are trapped beneath rubble, detained, buried in unmarked graves, or lost from their families. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Save The Children’s Head of Humanitarian Policy and Advocacy, Alexandra Saieh, to find out what needs to happen to protect children in Gaza, and why the world is seemingly oblivious to the worsening crisis. Headlines: Children's hospital in Ukraine bombed Three-day curfew underway in Alice Springs Joe Biden challenges other Democratic candidates to step up Alex De Minaur makes Wimbledon quarterfinals Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E312 · Mon, July 08, 2024
Fake it till you make it - the rise and rise of dupes
Dupes are the new copycat trend. From cosmetics to accessories, electronics, homeware and even motor cars, for every high quality product with a big price tag on the market, there seems to be a cheap alternative ready to go. But how are these companies making dupes get away with it? And what can the owners of the original product do to protect their intellectual property? Thomson Geer Lawyers Marlia Saunders, who specialises in intellectual property law joined Helen Smith on The Briefing to explain. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E311 · Sun, July 07, 2024
Apps that strip you naked are already here. How can we stop them?
Artificial intelligence is seeping into every aspect of our lives, so it was only a matter of time before it coupled with the porn industry – and the result is a growing number of AI porn image generators. Sites like Clothoff and Dessi produce fake porn imagers using pictures supplied by users. Victims find themselves powerless to combat the sites, often hosted by servers in far off countries. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Professor Nicola Henry from the Social and Global Studies Centre, RMIT University to find out who is behind the sites and why governments are powerless to do anything about them. Headlines: Sydney house fire allegedly linked to DV France's far-right party looks failed in bid to form government Biden continues attempts to convince Americans ahead of election John Cena announces retirement in WWE Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E310 · Sat, July 06, 2024
Inside Tucker Carlson's far-right Australian 'Freedom' Conference
Far-right political commentator, Tucker Carlson, is known for pushing extreme views on social and political issues, conspiracy theories and a strong stance against immigration. Recently, Clive Palmer’s mining company Mineralogy brought Carlson over to Australia as part of The Australian Freedom Conferences, visiting several major cities on a speaking tour. While in Sydney, two LiSTNR journalists attended, to find out what would be up for discussion, and to learn more about the Australians who identify with Tucker Carlson’s ultra-conservative beliefs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E309 · Fri, July 05, 2024
Poh Ling Yeow reveals who actually chooses the MasterChef winner
Poh Ling Yeow is proof that second place doesn’t always have to suck. Joining MasterChef as a contestant in 2009 now 15 years later she’s gracing the screens as a judge, with the new panel of faces joining in the wake of the tragic death of former judge Jock Zonfrillo. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Poh shares the challenges of being a woman in the public eye and her hidden phobia of eating in front of other people. WEEKEND LIST TO WATCH - American’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders on Netflix TO DO - Aussie Bro Squad call out on TikTok TO EAT - Plunger coffee and Honest to Goodness coffee TO WATCH - I Am: Celine Dion on Amazon Prime Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E308 · Fri, July 05, 2024
What will Britain look like under a Starmer government?
The Conservative Party have ruled the UK for the past 14 years – but it hasn’t been smooth sailing with 5 different Prime Ministers occupying 10 Downing Street in just the last 8 years. At the end of May, the current leader of the Tory party, Rishi Sunak called an election. The Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer had been picked to take the biggest win in nearly 200 years. So has that happened? And what will this new government mean for the UK’s future? Joining us to unpack what we know of the results, is The Briefing’s former Senior Producer, Eleanor Harrison-Dengate, who is currently on the ground in the UK. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E307 · Thu, July 04, 2024
Your no-bullshit explainer on nuclear power in Australia
Since Peter Dutton’s announcement on the Liberal party’s intention to go nuclear, there has been fierce debate on if it will work and if the Australian public should commit to it. But what are the plain and simple facts on nuclear? On this episode, we help you out with Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert providing a quick explainer about nuclear energy - using fact-checked info without the political spin. Sources: US Energy Information Administration here > CSIRO GenCost report here > International Energy Forum here > Headlines: UK election underway, Labour poised for a “supermajority” Labor reacts to Fatima Payman’s resignation Joe Biden admits he “screwed up” debate Nine-year-old chess prodigy is the youngest person to represent England internationally in any sport Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E306 · Thu, July 04, 2024
Senator Fatima Payman has quit Labor over Palestine. Now what?
“With a heavy heart but a clear conscience, I announce my resignation from the Australian Labor Party. I have informed the Prime Minister that, effective immediately, I will sit on the crossbench to represent Western Australia”. That’s the statement from Western Australian Senator Fatima Payman, announcing today at a press conference at Parliament House that she has made the decision to leave the Labor Party. In this episode of The Briefing we’re joined by Kos Samaris, Director of polling group Redbridge Australia, and Australian Financial Review federal politics reporter Tom McIllroy to discuss what it means for the future of the ALP - and the future of Senator Payman. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E305 · Wed, July 03, 2024
SpaceX's billion-dollar deal to destroy the International Space Station
NASA have announced that the International Space Station is doomed to de-orbit by 2031, and SpaceX are going to help take it down with a contract worth $1.26 billion (AUD). It’s the end of an era – the ISS was for many years a beacon of international cooperation in the final frontier of space. So why is the ISS being decommissioned, will a new station be replacing it, and what does this mean for international space relations in the future? Dr Rebecca Allen, Co-Director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute at Swinburne University of Technology, joined The Briefing to explain. Headlines: White House denies Biden is considering his future Damning ASIC inquiry New research has found what Australian’s are spending their money on Canberra’s night of nights – the Midwinter Ball. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E304 · Wed, July 03, 2024
The US lawsuit that could change live music around the world
One of the world’s biggest live entertainment companies, Live Nation, has been hit with a double whammy. It’s being sued by the US Department of Justice following its subsidiary Ticketmaster being targeted by a notorious hacker group affecting 560 million customers worldwide. As a follow-up to our investigation into Australia’s ticket industry, Tessa Randello from the LiSTNR Newsroom joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to break down what is happening at Live Nation and the effect it could have worldwide. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E303 · Tue, July 02, 2024
‘No inherent cruelty’: What farmers think about the live export ban
This week, campaigners for animal rights won a years-long battle to ban the live export of sheep, with the practice to end by 2028 after it was passed in parliament. According to Animals Australia, three million animals have died in live export from Australia ... and that's not to mention what happens to them once they arrive at their destination. On the flipside of that though is the farming communities who rely on the trade for their livelihoods. In today's Briefing, we speak with John Hassell, a WA farmer and the Vice President of the National Farmers Federation to find out what's next for the industry and what farmers wish they could say to inner city folk who are against the practice. Headlines: More than 100 dead in crowd crush at religious event in India Palestinians flee Khan Younis after texts from Israel Donald Trump sentencing delayed Bob Katter portrait in Parliament House Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E302 · Tue, July 02, 2024
After today's court ruling, could a US president kill a political rival?
For the first time ever, the American Supreme Court has ruled that former presidents are protected from criminal prosecution for some of what they do in office. Donald Trump is currently facing three criminal cases – and will next week face sentencing for a fourth surrounding the payment of hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels. What does this ruling mean for him, and for future and past presidents of the United States? Journalist and host of the ABC Podcast America, If You're Listening, Matt Bevan, joined Bension Siebert to unpack the decision. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E301 · Mon, July 01, 2024
How to spot the key signs your suburb's about to be gentrified
You love where you live and locals are worried the suburb’s about to be ‘gentrified’. It can be a good thing and a bad thing. Great news if you own your home, but not good news if you rent and rents are about to skyrocket. You’ll be forced to move to a suburb further away from your friends, work and social network. In this episode of the Briefing we’re joined by William Thackway, who has worked on a machine learning model to predict gentrification with UNSW City Futures Research Centre . He’ll tell you how to know if your suburb is about to be gentrified. Headlines: Shock Trump ruling Fatima Payman doubles down, accuses colleagues of exiling her Live sheep trade ban passes parliament World’s first millennial saint approved Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E300 · Mon, July 01, 2024
Why the internet is worried about teen TikTokkers Aussie Bro Squad
Have you heard of Aussie Bro Squad? The four brothers from regional NSW have made a bit of a name for themselves on TikTok after filming and uploading themselves performing high-energy dance routines. They’re known to “go live” multiple times a day, all filmed by their mum, Beverley, who keeps up a steady stream of commentary from viewers as her sons perform. While it appears innocent, internet sleuths have expressed concerns about the boys' welfare, two of whom are still in school. There are questions about why they’re made to perform on live streams at all hours of the day and night, and who is behind it all. Today, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Archie Milligan from the LiSTNR Newsroom, as we look deeper into the story of the Aussie Bro Squad. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E299 · Sun, June 30, 2024
If Triple M shuts up, will you open up?
Today, microphones across Triple M’s 49 radio stations will switch off for the network’s annual No Talk Day, with a goal to create space for listeners to check-in with themselves and their mates. That’s because every day, nine Australians take their own life – and according to Lifeline, on average, seven of those are men. Partnering with Lifeline, Triple M’s goal is to build awareness and encourage fundraising for this vital national service. Now in its sixth year, between 6am and 6pm, Triple M will pause all shows, announcers and ads, along with all news and traffic reports, as a reminder to make mental health a priority and encourage listeners to start a conversation for themselves or with someone they care about. Gus Worland is no stranger to conversations about mental health. He joined Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain why Triple M keeps wanting to draw attention to talking about your mental health, and what he’s learned from the listeners when making space for them to speak. Lifeline 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au/talk Headlines: Fatima Payman suspended indefinitely from the Labor caucus Joe Biden meets with family as pressure mounts on him to stand aside Huge turnout for French elections All the changes coming in today Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E298 · Fri, June 28, 2024
Jenny Tian’s viral journey from TikTok to Taskmaster
Jenny Tian admits she is committed to two things in life – making comedy and sleeping.\ When she started to go virial on social media for her comedy skits and stand up shows she never looked back and is now on the big screen. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Jenny reveals some of the weirdest things she’s doing on this season of Australia’s Taskmaster and how she’s preparing for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Book here WEEKEND LIST TO EAT - Raspberry Tourte (DM us on Insta for the full recipe) TO EAT - Easy Za'atar wrap combo TO WATCH - Chicken shop date on YouTube by Amelia Dimoldenberg TO DO - How to save on a gym membership Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E297 · Fri, June 28, 2024
The presidential debate: did Joe Biden just lose the election?
US President Joe Biden and wannabe second term president Donald Trump faced off in the first presidential debate earlier today, with many expecting it to be a defining moment in the election campaign. We watched as Joe Biden appeared unsure and hesitant, while still landing blows on Trump. We saw Trump continue to attack Biden’s family and legacy. It was gloves off from the outset and at times threatened to turn nasty. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Dave Levinthal, editor-in-chief of Raw Story, to find out who won the debate, and whether either side will claim it has proven they’re the best person to lead the US over the next four years. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E296 · Thu, June 27, 2024
Have we swiped left on dating apps?
Last year popular online platforms were also threatened with government regulation unless they improve safety for users, following a spike in reports of threats of violence and abuse. The federal government gave industry until the middle of 2024 to develop and implement a voluntary code of practice to improve standards. But has anything actually moved on the issue since? In this episode of The Briefing Antoinette Lattouf speaks with intimacy and dating app expert Lisa Portolan to see where we’re at with our relationship to dating apps. Headlines: Presidential debate today Sexual assaults at 31-year high Woolies brings in egg-buying limits amid bird flu outbreak Sydney vs Melbourne: who wins according to most liveable cities ranker Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E295 · Thu, June 27, 2024
Enshittification: has everything become a bit shit?
The term ‘enshittification’ was coined by British-Canadian blogger Cory Doctorow at the start of 2023 to describe the decline of social media platforms. It captures the idea that something which was once great eventually becomes crappy overtime due to excessive profit-chasing. The term has broken into the cultural zeitgeist and is now being used to describe everything from major events to clothes, coffee, housing, and everything in between. Recently, disgruntled Sydneysiders used the term to describe this year’s Vivid festival, which they say has deteriorated in the pursuit of making money. So, why does a chunk of the population feel like everything is just a bit shit right now? And is it just capitalism in action? On this episode of The Briefing, expert in ' Uncomfortable Conversations ' Josh Szeps joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to explore if everything really is becoming a bit shit. Find Uncomfortable Conversations on YouTube Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E294 · Wed, June 26, 2024
Julian Assange is home. How does that feel for his brother?
Julian Assange is a free man after pleading guilty to one charge of espionage in a federal United States court as part of a plea deal with prosecutors, bringing to end an international saga surrounding war, access to information, freedom of speech and the role of journalism in the digital age. Facing a judge in a US federal court in the remote Northern Mariana Islands, Assange told the court that he “believes the First Amendment and the Espionage Act are in contradiction” and that he was within his rights while working as a journalist when he “encouraged (his) source to provide information that was said to be classified in order to publish that information”. Assange landed on Australian soil late on Wednesday afternoon, bringing the long fight by many for him to be allowed to return home to an end. What will his life look like going forward, and how does his family feel now that he’s returned? Julian’s brother, Gabriel Shipton, joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on The Briefing to share how he feels in this historical moment. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E293 · Wed, June 26, 2024
Why Youtube star MrBeast is taking over Australia
You might not have heard of MrBeast, but chances are the Gen Z’er you share a house, office or gym with has. The 26-year-old content creator from Wichita, Kansas has amassed hundreds of millions of followers and is the most- subscribed-to page on YouTube. He’s best known for putting on his own version of Squid Game – before Netflix did – and sharing hundreds of thousands of dollars in random giveaways. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Justin Hill, entertainment guru and host of The Streaming Service podcast on LiSTNR, to find out who MrBeast is, and why he’s having such a massive global impact. Headlines: Julian Assange is back in Australia Fatima Payman cops caucus suspension after crossing the floor Kenyan government concedes defeat on tax increases after deadly protests Two astronauts are stuck in space Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E292 · Wed, June 26, 2024
What convinced Jacinta Allan to allow pill testing in Victoria?
Pills, powders and liquids that might be harbouring deadly substances will be able to be legally tested across Victoria, following a major policy change announced by Premier Jacinta Allan this week. Pill testing will become permanent after an 18-month trial starting this summer, with a mobile service to attend up to 10 music festivals. In Victoria, paramedics responded to more drug overdoses at festivals in the first three months of 2024 than during all of 2023. The announcement is a change from Labor's previous stance against pill testing, and comes alongside the party choosing to not support a second safe drug injecting room in Melbourne’s CBD despite experts' advice saying it would help reduce fatal heroin overdoses in the state. In this episode of The Briefing, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan joins to explain the reasoning behind the change of heart in the Victorian government, and Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell gives her take on the proposed rollout. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E291 · Tue, June 25, 2024
The Greens want vapes to be sold in pharmacies without prescriptions
The Albanese government has announced sweeping new changes to Australia’s vaping laws, which will see the products continue to be sold – but only in pharmacies. To secure the support of the Greens in the Senate, Labor has agreed to backtrack on its prescription-only model. It means vapes will be made available at pharmacies across the country – but they will be regulated and subject to plain packaging requirements, with flavours limited to mint, menthol or tobacco. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Greens leader Adam Bandt to find out why the Greens negotiated the new laws and what the new regulations mean for vapers and smokers wanting to quit cigarettes. Headlines: Julian Assange will face court at 9am today on a US island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean Senator Fatima Payman crosses the floor Jarryd Hayne won’t face a fourth trial Listeners respond to vaping story Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E290 · Tue, June 25, 2024
Julian Assange is free and may shortly be home, says WikiLeaks
Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks, has agreed to plead guilty to a single felony count in relation to charges over disseminating national security material. The plea deal was in exchange for his release from a British prison, clearing the way for him to return to Australia, and avoiding the need to face charges in the United States. It brings to an end the 14-year ordeal that saw him spend seven years in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London and a further five years in a British prison fighting US attempts to extradite him. In this episode of The Briefing we’re joined by Kym Staton, documentary filmmaker and Director of ‘The Trust Fall: Julian Assange', to find out how and why Assange has finally decided to end his campaign for justice and return home. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E289 · Mon, June 24, 2024
Playing chicken with biohazards. Are humans at risk from bird flu?
Bird flu – or Avian flu – has been detected at a number of chicken farms in Victoria and NSW. The discovery comes in the wake of an outbreak in the US and tests that found humans had symptoms associated with bird flu. How safe is Australia’s poultry industry, and how safe are our chickens and eggs to eat? In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Enzo Palombo, Professor of Microbiology at Swinburne University to learn more about how badly our poultry industry will be affected and if humans – like Covid – could be impacted by the growing global crisis. Headlines: Government waters down vape ban Victoria to launch pill testing trial this summer Princess Anne in hospital Picassos hung in ladies toilets at Mona Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E288 · Mon, June 24, 2024
Are you a victim of weaponised incompetence?
Weaponised incompetence is a term that's gaining some traction at the moment. It's a passive-aggressive pattern of behaviour where someone in a relationship, whether it be professional or intimate, either deliberately performs a task poorly or pretends not to know how to do a task in order to avoid responsibility. Imagine the dynamic of person A is able to iron shirts/stack dishwashers/ do spreadsheets so much better than person B - which leads to Person A doing all the work, often reinforcing the unequal division of labour at home and in the office. In this episode of The Briefing, psychologist Jocelyn Brewer shares how it can manifest, and how to tell if you might be an unknowing victim. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E287 · Sun, June 23, 2024
The costly mistakes to avoid this tax time
Tax time is right around the corner and this year the ATO are cracking down on working from home expenses. Last year more than 8 million Australians claimed work- related deductions in their tax return, with working from home expenses making up more than half of those claims. In this episode of the Briefing Ashley Debenham from Etax Accountants joins Katrina Blowers to unpack everything you need to know before you lodge your tax return. Headlines: Tough new penalties coming for supermarkets First poll shows voters split on nuclear Adelaide Westfield sent into lockdown after teen brawl 2024 Logies nominations announced Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E286 · Fri, June 21, 2024
LA taught Victoria Latu how to make it anywhere
What’s the difference between style and Fashion? Well Victoria Latu can answer that. She was born in a region now considered Ukraine, interviewed all the stars on the red carpet in LA and along the way became a fashion expert. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Victoria unpacks her Kylie Minogue like accent and how she navigated the Australian media landscape a women of colour. WEEKEND LIST TO EAT - Healthy butter chicken with Greek yogurt TO LISTEN - The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess by Chappell Roan TO WATCH - Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult on Netflix TO DO - DIY Gel Nail Kit By Me & Crew Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E285 · Fri, June 21, 2024
Is Caitlin Clark WNBA's saviour, or its newest villain?
Women’s basketball would be lucky to rate a mention in America, let alone Australia. Yet that has all changed since Caitlin Clark came along. The 22-year-old is one of the most promising female basketball players in the US, making the transition from college ball to being signed as the number one draft pick for the Indiana Fever this year. However, her popularity hasn’t been without controversy, fuelled by Clark’s entrance as a white player in a predominantly Black sport. In this episode, we’re joined by Cat Lynch from Triple M, who’s been following Clark’s journey and is here to unpack the complexities of her story. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E284 · Thu, June 20, 2024
The dangers of Putin and Kim Jong Un's explosive bromance
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s first visit to North Korea in 24 years has resulted in the signing of a partnership agreement for mutual aid if either nation is attacked. Apparently encompassing a whole range of areas, including medical education and scientific pursuits, particular emphasis has been placed on military cooperation with speculation that Russia is in dire need of munitions to continue their war against Ukraine. In this episode, we’re joined by Politco’s Zoya Sheftalovich, to find out more about the agreement and just how much Russia are in need of North Korea’s support. Headlines: Questions remain around the Coalition’s nuclear plan. Russia signs deals with Vietnam Climate activists try to vandalise Taylor Swift’s private jet London cinema cancels screening of movie written entirely by AI after hundreds of complaints Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E283 · Thu, June 20, 2024
Does smashing Australian MPs' windows help stop the killing in Gaza?
This week saw a Labor MP’s office vandalized in Victoria in protest of the party’s inaction surrounding the war in Gaza. The protest has sparked outrage from current and former members of government, who say aggressive protest action is taking things too far. Should protest action be more peaceful, to be more effective? Or is loud and aggressive protest the only way to get wider Australian society to pay attention to major issues surrounding the environment, climate and human rights? In this episode of the Briefing former leader of the Greens and environmentalist Bob Brown joins Bension Siebert to unpack what an effective protest looks like. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E282 · Wed, June 19, 2024
Peter Dutton's made a nuclear promise. Will he deliver it?
Peter Dutton has provided Australians with more detail than ever before with how he plans to make the country enter a nuclear power boom. On Wednesday, the leader of the Opposition announced his plans to build seven nuclear power stations, flagging a major election promise which he hopes will be a “referendum on nuclear energy”. In this episode of The Briefing, Emeritus Professor Ian Lowe from Griffith University breaks down what the promise would mean for Australia’s energy plan. Headlines: Gender Pay Gap in the public sector North Korea and Russia sign mutual aid partnership Shoppers are getting their groceries 25% cheaper at Aldi Peter Dutton reveals the next phase of the Coalition’s nuclear plan Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E281 · Wed, June 19, 2024
Australia's ski season could be halved by 2050
Planning on heading to the slopes this winter? A new study has found climate change could forever change Australia’s ski season, with less snow for fewer days. The traditional season, starting from the June long weekend through to the October long weekend, is 120 days or four months. New research has found due to ongoing changes in our climate the season will be reduced to just 55 days by 2050. In this episode of the Briefing, Sam Quirke from Protect Our Winters joins Katrina Blowers to learn what needs to be done to curb greenhouse gas emissions and save Australia’s season. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E280 · Tue, June 18, 2024
I don’t have a mortgage, why should I care about the cash rate?
Yesterday the Reserve Bank of Australia announced that they were holding the cash rate at 4.35% - the same position since November, 2023. While this decision came as no shock to the majority of economists, it was anticipated that cash rates would be falling by the end of 2024. Is this still the case? To help unpack the details of our current economic situation, Scott Phillips from the Motley Fool joins us on The Briefing. Headlines: Thailand legalises same sex marriage Netanyahu complains about blocked US weapons as Jerry Seinfeld’s Sydney gig is hit by pro-Palestine protestors again Justin Timberlake arrested for driving while intoxicated Maccas to ditch AI ordering system over in the US Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E279 · Tue, June 18, 2024
Inside the top-secret bunker where your most sensitive data is held
Have you ever thought about the physical places where our most sensitive and private digital information is stored? Around Australia lie ultra-secure databases that host everything from your medical records and internet passwords to our governments' records and national secrets. Unsurprisingly, given the sensitive nature of this digital information, most of us will never even know where these data centres are, let alone see inside one. However in this episode, The Briefing will take you right inside a data control centre, and you'll hear from AuCloud CEO Peter Maloney to find out how they keep your data safe from hackers, scammers and foreign intelligence agencies. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E278 · Mon, June 17, 2024
Panda Propaganda: Why China is sending us diplomacy bears
China’s long history of panda diplomacy is back in the headlines. Governments trading native animals is nothing new and can form a key part of diplomatic relations, but how did trading pandas become an integral part of China’s foreign policy? In this episode of the Briefing Senior Fellow in the Initiative for U.S-China Dialogue on Global Issues Dennis Wilder joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain the political strategies behind the cuddly bears. Headlines: Australia's relationship with China “renewed and revitalised” Virgin flight engine fire on flight to Melbourne Vladimir Putin to visit North Korea New research shows news intake is up Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E277 · Mon, June 17, 2024
Opening the sealed section of labia shame with a former Dolly Doctor
New research released today from Women’s Health Victoria is showing a sad state of affairs for how people see their genitalia in 2024. The research, which includes a nationally representative YouGov survey of more than 1000 Australians with a labia, found that porn and the 'online world' are having a significant impact on young people's anxiety and shame around their vulva and labia. In this episode, we speak with the longest serving Dolly Doctor and Labia Library ambassador, Dr Melissa Kang. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E276 · Sun, June 16, 2024
Should free-to-air sport be an Australian right?
New research has found 69 per cent of Australians access TV via the internet and millions will miss out on watching sport if proposed anti-siphoning laws are not applied to streaming services. A new study has found 29 per cent of Australians watch TV exclusively through an aerial and 18 per cent of those are considering switching to digital soon. If anti-siphoning laws are not extended to digital services, around half (49%) of people who use free streaming services such as 9Now and 7Plus reported they would simply miss out on watching sport. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Free TV CEO Bridget Fair to find out what needs to happen to keep sport and other major television events, on free-to-air TV. SCA is a member of Free TV Australia, which is behind the Keep Sport Free campaign. Headlines: Albanese to meet with Chinese Premier Li Swiss peace summit sees international support for Ukraine Robert Irwin threatens to sue Pauline Hanson’s One Nation over cartoon Royals receive positive coverage over Father's Day Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E275 · Fri, June 14, 2024
Two Broke Chicks on good conflict with friends
Sally McMullen and Alexandra Hourigan describe themselves as just two chicks trying to navigate their 20s and their love of online shopping. The duo turned their friendship and passion of scoring a bargain into Two Broke Chicks - dishing out everything from saving hacks to how to make friends as an adult in their podcast, new book and through socials. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Sal and Alex share what they think about the bad rap millennials and zillenials get when it comes to Insta inspired spending. WEEKEND LIST TO EAT - Burger bowl with special sauce TO LISTEN - Soul Ties by H3rizon TO WATCH - Real Housewives of Salt Lake City TO EAT - Dominos gluten free and vegan cheese pizza Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E274 · Fri, June 14, 2024
Dumbo, Babar and Heffalump: Elephants have names for each other
Animals communicate with one another all the time, but few species have the ability to call each other by individual names. Dolphins are known to invent their own signature whistle as names, while parrots have also been known to use names with each other – and now new research has found that African elephants have found their own way to call each other by name too. In this episode of the Briefing, lead author of the study and behavioural ecologist Mickey Pardo joins Bension Siebert to explain how African elephants use rumble sounds to communicate. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E273 · Thu, June 13, 2024
Monkeypox is on the rise. This is what you need to know
There's been a surprising spike this year in the number of Monkeypox cases internationally and in Australia. In a post-pandemic world, fears of a virus that could spread amongst large groups of people are unsurprising - but are concerns about this latest spike warranted? And what's causing the spike of Mpox to occur? In this episode, The Briefing's Simon Beaton speaks with expert in infectious diseases, Professor David Tscharke from the Australian National University. Headlines: Ukraine signs historic ten year security deal with the US Chris Dawson loses appeal Young Aussie Actress cast in upcoming Disney film Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E272 · Thu, June 13, 2024
Antoinette's getting explicit. Here's why
14 high-profile Australian women have joined forces to recreate the famous Calendar Girls campaign to raise awareness of domestic violence. Inspired by the Calendar Girls 25 years ago who stripped for a nude calendar to raise awareness of cancer, Let’s Get Explicit is trying to keep the conversation going and to raise awareness of domestic violence in Australia. Politicians like Victorian MP Georgie Purcell, actor Sharon Johal and our own Antoinette Lattouf have been photographed the calendar, depicting prominent Australians in images where they feel empowered, to raise funding for and drive societal change around violence against women. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by to Antoinette to find out why she’s involved, and what the organisers hope to achieve. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E271 · Wed, June 12, 2024
What Australia can learn from the far-right surge in Europe
The European Parliament held its elections over the weekend, with provisional results showing significant victory for radical-right political parties across the continent. As preliminary election results rolled in, French President Emmanuel Macron called a snap parliamentary election in the country later this month, following strong results for his right-wing rival party Marine Le Pen. In this episode of The Briefing, we take a deep dive into the surge of right-wing parties and policies across Europe, what’s behind the drift to the right, and what the impact might be here in Australia. Headlines: Investigations suggests PwC scandal to be beyond just Australia SA Premier Peter Malinauskas proposes bill to ban all political donations Former footballer Jarryd Haynes wins appeal against sexual assault convictions World records broken at Aussie swimming trials Note: If you'd like to hear our former episode on how companies pay to influence our politicians, head here . Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E270 · Wed, June 12, 2024
How to hack running with world champion Katie Williams
Run clubs are trending. They've been called the new dating app, the millennial quarter life crisis, and the cozzie livs gym membership. So if you’ve found yourself lacing up or have signed up for the next fun run in your city - what’s the best way to start running and do it safely? And is this a 2024 fad, or here for the long haul? In this episode of the Briefing Former Australian Athlete of the Year and World Champion sprinter Katie Williams joins Helen Smith to give her advice on how to hit your running goals without causing an injury, and where she thinks the popularity is coming from. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E269 · Tue, June 11, 2024
Why you shouldn't be worried about AI taking your job
There’s a lot of talk about AI taking our jobs, but what if we made it find us jobs instead? That’s the premise of UK-based AutogenAI, a rapidly growing generative AI company that went to market six weeks before ChatGPT. It developed software - written by a team that includes historians, psychologists and philosophers – to enable clients to write winning bids for tenders, contracts and proposals. Now it’s launching in Australia, but will it just make big companies richer by taking bigger slices of the pie? In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by AutogenAI CEO and founder Sean Williams to find out. Headlines: Hamas agree to a ceasefire Hunter Biden convicted of all three felonies related to gun ownership Bonza staff sacked after two months without pay Socceroos beat Palestine as Usman Khawaja takes a swipe at Albanese over recognising Palestine as a state. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E268 · Tue, June 11, 2024
Is the cost of saving Israeli hostages in Gaza too high?
Four hostages taken by Hamas during last year’s October 7 attacks were rescued safely from Gaza at the weekend. According to the Gazan health ministry, 274 Palestinians were killed, sixty-four of them children, during the brutal operation to free the hostages. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Sarah Schwartz, a human rights lawyer and executive officer of the Australian Jewish Council to discuss a morally sound way to react to Israeli lives being saved alongside Palestinian lives being taken, and how we should maintain humanity and our empathy for everyone involved. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E267 · Mon, June 10, 2024
The other side of child killer Farquharson’s bid for freedom
Robert Farquharson was convicted for murdering his three sons after driving into a dam on purpose on Father’s Day in 2005. A new campaign is trying to prove he is innocent - that he suffered a medical episode. In this episode of The Briefing we hear the other side of the story from crime journalist and author Megan Norris, who covered the original criminal trials and feels a sense of obligation to be a voice for Cindy Gambino -- the mother of the three dead children who is no longer here to tell her side of the story. Headlines: Bird Flu spreads across Victorian farms Antony Blinken and Netanyahu meeting to discuss ceasefire deal EU election shows a surge in popularity for the far-right Ariarne Titmus dominates in the women's 400m freestyle Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E266 · Mon, June 10, 2024
How to tell if your boss is stealing your wages
It seems that every few months another massive Australian business is accused of wage theft. Coles, Woolworths, the ABC, BHP, Qantas, big banks, major universities...the list of firms found to have not paid workers what they should is expansive. In response, the federal government has introduced new laws starting January 1 next year will make it a criminal offence to deliberately underpay staff, with massive penalties for companies and individuals. But how do you even know if you’re being underpaid? And will these laws be enough to stop this happening? On this episode, Bension Siebert finds out more from principal lawyer at Maurice Blackburn, Patrick Turner. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E265 · Sun, June 09, 2024
The dangers of normalising "the wine mum"
Have you heard about wine mums, or seen videos on social media featuring women drinking at boozy brunches? Historically men have drunk more than women, but in recent years there has been an increase in women’s drinking. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Maree Patsouras from La Trobe university to find out about the lives of Australian working mothers and the place alcohol has. Headlines: Family of British TV host Michael Mosley pay tribute following his death on a Greek island Former federal treasurer Peter Costello resigns as chairman of Nine Entertainment Cricket great Glen McGraw, LiSTNR's Hamish Blake and former Premiers Daniel Andrews and Mark McGowan some of those receiving King's Birthday Honours today New warnings about impact of social media on kids brains and the potential shrinking of grey matter Carlos Alcaraz outlasts Alexander Zverev at French Open for third Slam Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E264 · Fri, June 07, 2024
Nathan Paddison says art saved him from a lifetime in jail
Nathan Paddison spent 13 years of his life in and out of prison for a range of crimes - some small and others violent. But he says art saved him. Antoinette Lattouf and Nathan went to school together in western Sydney and reconnected at his latest art exhibition. You cannot downplay some of his crimes, including a charge of domestic violence, but rarely do we hear about how criminals try to turn their lives around. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Nathan opens up about what what leads young men to go down criminal and violent paths and crucially how to break that cycle. 1800 RESPECT - 1800 737 732 MensLine Australia - 1300 78 99 78 WEEKEND LIST TO EAT - Easy veggie lasagna TO VISIT - Vivid Sydney TO LISTEN - Sounds like a cult, the cult of tradwives TO DO- Adult colouring books Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E263 · Fri, June 07, 2024
Woman identified as Baby Reindeer stalker sues Netflix for $175 million
Fiona Harvey is a Scottish lawyer who was depicted as a stalker in the Netflix hit, Baby Reindeer. She’s denied the claims and is suing the streaming giant for $170m. The program depicted Harvey – via a character named Martha – as a serial stalker who bombarded the British comedian Richard Gadd with tens of thousands of emails and text messages. She says it never happened. The show said she was convicted of stalking and spent nine months in prison. Harvey says it’s nonsense. In this episode of The Briefing, we take a deep dive on Harvey’s motivation to sue – and what her chances are of beating a streaming behemoth like Netflix. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E262 · Thu, June 06, 2024
Why North Korea is flying rubbish-filled balloons into South Korea
North Korea has launched a series of balloons packed with household waste over the border into South Korea. Pyongyang says it’s in response to Seoul distributing anti-North propaganda leaflets into cities and towns across the North. In this episode of the Briefing we take a deep dive with Justin Hastings, Professor of International Relations at the University of Sydney, on why the campaign was launched and what it means for hostilities between the two nations separated since the Korean War in the 1950s. Headlines: World leaders come together to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day Peter Costello denies assaulting journalist at Canberra Airport Israeli strike kills at least 33 people at Gaza school that IDF claims was being used by Hamas Elon Musk's SpaceX records first successful test flight Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E261 · Thu, June 06, 2024
Are people lining up to die on Mount Everest?
Another climbing season for those attempting to summit Mount Everest has come to a close. This year, the Nepalese government offered fewer climbing permits in an effort to reduce congestion on the mountain and improve safety, after a record-breaking 18 climbers lost their lives in 2023. Still, this year saw five climbers die on the climb, with three others still missing. So what is it really like to climb the tallest mountain on Earth, and should the Nepalese government be putting more safety measures in place? In this episode, The Briefing’s Simon Beaton speaks with Dan Stretch from Global Rescue, who coordinates high-altitude rescues on Mount Everest. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E260 · Wed, June 05, 2024
Rent in regional Australia is more expensive than you think
New CoreLogic data has found rent in three quarters of Australia's biggest regional areas are now higher than ever – with WA and Queensland topping the list. The biggest increase was in Batemans Bay in NSW rising by around 6 percent in the past three months – which is about $32 extra a week. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by CoreLogic’s Eliza Owen to find out why regional rents are soaring and what can be done to make regional areas affordable for Australians unable to afford to rent in cities. Headlines: $300 energy bill rebate unlikely to affect inflation The government and the opposition condemn Greens for involvement in pro-Palestinian protests Victorians can now report dodgy rentals with Consumer Affairs First British bank notes featuring King Charles and a banana milkshake Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E259 · Wed, June 05, 2024
What role will QAnon play in the upcoming US election?
QAnon first appeared in 2017 and quickly flooded the internet with conspiracy theories from child trafficking cannibal celebrities to suggestions JFK faked his own death and was returning to run for office. Observers say QAnon has gone strangely quiet. So what are they working on? The vast majority of QAnon supporters are Trump supporters so what can we expect as the US prepares to go to the polls in November? Is QAnon waiting to launch? Or has the cult of conspiracy finally petered out? In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Mike Rothschild, a global expert on QAnon to find out what they’ve been up to and if we should be worried about the radio silence from the world leaders in conspiracy theories. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E258 · Tue, June 04, 2024
Why you could soon go to jail for sharing deepfake porn
The Albanese government will this morning introduce news laws to parliament banning the non-consensual sharing of deepfake pornography. Those caught sharing sexually explicit images that have been digitally created using artificial intelligence or other forms of technology could find themselves facing a six-year prison term - but is the government fighting a digital runaway train? Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus KC joined Bension Siebert to explain what impact he thinks the governments proposed new laws will have. Headlines: Joe Biden suggests there is ‘every reason’ to believe Netanyahu is prolonging Gaza war for political gain New Australian study finds fast food is influencing news More work needed to hit Paris climate targets Japanese government launches dating app to boost birth rate Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E257 · Tue, June 04, 2024
Who is Mexico's wildly popular first female president?
History was made on Sunday when Mexicans went to the polls to elect a new president. Claudia Sheinbaum won in a landslide victory to become Mexico's first female president, and is the first woman to be picked for the Mexican presidency in 200 years of elections. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Luis Gomez Romero from Wollongong University to discuss how and why Ms Sheinbaum won, and what it means for the people of Mexico. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E256 · Mon, June 03, 2024
Adam Hills on the serious and silly of the UK election
The United Kingdom will go to the polls for a general election on Thursday July 4. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Conservative Party currently holds 345 seats in the parliament to Labour’s 206 with minor parties making up the balance of the 650 seats in the House of Commons. Polls have Labour’s Keir Starmer well in front and bookies have Labour at unbackable odds. So what are the key election issues, and what can we expect in the lead-up to the election. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Adam Hills from the ABC’s Spicks and Specks, who is based in Britain, to find out everything you need to know about the UK elections on July 4. Headlines: Minimum wages to increase by 3.75 per cent Bill Shorten under fire over speech writers wages Matildas defeat China 2-0 Alex de Minaur into the French Open quarter-final Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E255 · Mon, June 03, 2024
Why our Olympians can't compete with the cost of living
It's fair to say that the cost of living pressures are greatly impacting many Australians. One way in which some are surviving financially is by opting out of sports - whether that's those playing socially, or even for those playing at elite levels. Could this impact the next generation of elite athletes, as families cut back on their children's weekend and after-school sporting commitments? And will this mean that we have a smaller pool of elite athletes when the 2032 Brisbane Olympics rolls around? Tessa Randello from the LiSTNR Newsroom has deep-dived into the effect of the cost of living crisis on our elite athletes. In this episode, she speaks with Bension Siebert to unpack what she's found. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E254 · Sun, June 02, 2024
New hope for psych meds without the weight gain
Researchers at the University of South Australia are developing a coating for anti-depressant and anti-anxiety drugs. The pills have traditionally led to weight gain for those prescribed the drugs. The new coating mitigates weight gain and boosts serotonin levels – combatting a major side effect of the drugs. In this episode of The Briefing, we take a deep dive on how the researchers developed the new technology and what it means for people who have been prescribed the drugs. Our guest is Dr Paul Joyce – Senior Research Fellow at the University of South Australia’s Department of Clinical and Health Services. Headlines: Body found after explosion in Sydney’s Western suburbs Ceasefire deals opposed by members of Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right coalition Mexico might see it’s first female president elected Rupert Murdoch married for the fifth time at 93 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E253 · Fri, May 31, 2024
Eliza Hull on disability, Gaza and big conversations with kids
Eliza Hull is a musician, author and a disability advocate who’s teaching children how to have better conversations about people living with disability. On social media Eliza has been putting a spotlight on what it would be like for people with existing disability in Gaza and all of those with new acquired disabilities because of the constant bombardment. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf Eliza shares some heart wrenching moments from her childhood and how Gaza has impacted her parenting. WEEKEND LIST TO EAT - Spicy (NOT FIRED) chicken wings TO READ - 4am: Answers to the conundrums that keep you up at night • Advice from Ask Shameless TO DO - Set an alarm for deep breathing TO DO - T he Antoinettes Live Show - Syd June 22nd Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E252 · Fri, May 31, 2024
The fallout from Donald Trump's guilty verdict
Former US President Donald Trump was this morning found guilty on 34 charges relating to paying off a porn star. Trump had sex with Stormy Daniels in a Lake Tahoe hotel room in 2006. The story emerged in the lead-up to the 2016 election and Trump, through his then lawyer Michael Cohen, paid Daniels $130,000 to kill off the story Prosecutors in New York brought the charges against Trump – the first time a US president or former president has faced criminal charges – and he was found guilty on all 34 counts. We’re joined by Professor David Smith from the US Studies Centre at the University of Sydney to find out what’s likely to happen next. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E251 · Thu, May 30, 2024
Donald Trump - Guilty!
Former US President Donald Trump has been found guilty on 34 charges in a New York court. In this special bonus episode of The Briefing, you'll hear what Trump had to say after the verdict was handed down. Sacha Barbour-Gatt and Katrina Blowers bring you the very latest on one of the biggest news stories in decades. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E250 · Thu, May 30, 2024
Richard Reid wants you to cut nepo babies some slack
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s 10-year-old daughter North West made her acting debut not on a school stage like other kids - but in a major 30th anniversary concert performance of the Lion King at the Hollywood Bowl. And people weren’t happy. Hollywood is full of nepo babies and it makes sense - but what about the people missing out on roles or opportunities because they weren’t born into a famous family? In this episode of the Briefing entertainment reporter and gossip guru Richard Reid joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain why we love to hate nepo babies. Headlines: BOM releases Winter outlook as 2024 shapes up to be the hottest year on record Trump jury continues deliberations as former President is accused of using racial slur Labor MP quits foreign affairs committee after ‘river to the sea’ comments US man on suspended licence shows up to virtual court date behind the wheel Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E249 · Thu, May 30, 2024
How a teen's death exposed shocking police racism in Australia
The inquest into the death of 19-year-old Kumanjayi Walker wrapped up this week after hearing shocking allegations of racism permeating the Nothern Territory Police Force. Walker was shot dead during an attempted arrest in 2019 by then police officer Zachary Rolfe, who was charged with murder but then acquitted following a trial. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Melissa Mackay from the ABC’s bureau in Alice Springs, to find out what we learned at the inquiry and what lessons, if any, will be learned from the death of Kumanjayi Walker. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E248 · Wed, May 29, 2024
How Gen Z MPs are shaking up parliament
24-year-old Laura Nuttall is the youngest ever Greens representative elected to any Australian parliament. Laura is also the first Gen Z Member of the ACT Legislative Assembly ever. Laura and her advisor Dani - who is 22 - are passionate about environmental and economic justice, and young peoples’ participation in decision-making that affects their lives. In this episode of the Briefing, Antoinette investigates what a Gen Z MP can bring to a parliament and how and why young people’s issues ought to be front and centre of any government’s decision-making process. Headlines: Aussies likely caught up in Ticketmaster hack with 560 million people at risk Immigration Minister refusing to stand down over allowing convicted criminals visas Jury begins deliberations in Trump hush money trial Temperatures hit 50C in Delhi Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E247 · Wed, May 29, 2024
Can international law stop Israel killing children in Gaza?
Traumatic vision has emerged showing the aftermath of recent Israeli airstrikes on a makeshift tent city in Rafah, in the south of Gaza, that reportedly killed 45 people, with 249 others wounded. Aid groups have said the Israeli Defence Force had designated the area a humanitarian safe zone before launching the attack – although Israel denies this. The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to “immediately halt its military offensive” in Rafah, but in ambiguous terms, which the Israeli Government has interpreted to mean its Rafah offensive can continue. Meanwhile, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has applied for arrest warrants for Netanyahu, the Israeli defence minister, and three Hamas leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity. In this episode, Bension Siebert speaks with international law expert, Juliette McIntyre, and Frankie Leach, spokesperson for humanitarian organisation ActionAid. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E246 · Tue, May 28, 2024
Kochie on the bank of mum and dad
Over the next 10 years in Australia $5 trillion is expected to move down the generations, with around $2.3 trillion to be given to Boomers’ children, $1 trillion to their grandkids, and $1.7 trillion to charities. The bank of mum and dad is somewhere between the 5th and 9th biggest lender according to the Productivity Commission. In this episode of the Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Compare the Market’s Economic Director David Koch to explain what impact this will have on the economy. Headlines: Australia demands Israel halt Rafah offensive Daughter of Perth double murderer claims police ignored her pleas to stop her dad Rental affordability goes from bad to worse Pope apologises for using homophobic slur Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E245 · Tue, May 28, 2024
God knows why this millennial is becoming a saint
News broke last week that a teenager is about to become the world’s first millennial saint. Carlo Acutis passed away in 2006, but spent his life spreading his faith, coming to be known as the patron saint of the internet for his work creating websites about Catholicism and its saints. So, how does the Catholic church decide on who gets to be a saint? What’s the criteria, who tests the miracles and what role could coincidence and other factors play? Sydney priest, Father Anthony Robbie joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to discuss on this episode of The Briefing. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E244 · Mon, May 27, 2024
Is this a drill? The latest tensions between Taiwan and China
Late last week, China launched a comprehensive two-day military drill around Taiwan, mimicking a full-scale attack. The drills included dozens of fighter jets carrying live missiles, alongside navy vessels stationed at strategic locations around the island. The military operations have been viewed as retaliation to Taiwan's newly elected president, Lai Ching-te, who in his recent inauguration speech reinforced the island's independence from China. So how much has changed in the tensions between Taiwan and China over the last few months? And what does this mean for Australia? In this episode, Bension Siebert unpacks the situation with Dr Roger Lee Huang, an expert in Southeast Asian politics and international relations at Macquarie University. Headlines: Netanyahu describes deadly Rafah strike a “tragic mishap” Fears death toll in the thousands in PNG landslide Experts to meet in fast-tracked gender-based violence review Fly high Bette; world’s longest serving flight attendant dies Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E243 · Mon, May 27, 2024
Part 2 - How Temu conquered the world
It’s become one of the world’s biggest online shopping marketplaces, churning out more than a million parcels to be flown to customers around the globe every day. Here in Australia, more than 1.2 million of us shop on Temu every month – and it’s our most downloaded app. But how did the Chinese start-up skyrocket to global online megastore - selling everything from clothing and household items - less than two years after launching? Dr Shasha Wang from QUT joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain Temu’s unique recipe for success in commerce and its meteoric rise. A Temu spokesperson says: Claims that Temu's competitive pricing is achieved through exploitative labour practices are unfounded. We urge a closer examination of our approach, which hinges on removing unnecessary expenses. Our cost-efficiency is due to a direct connection between consumers and manufacturers, cutting out middlemen and their markups. Our model also streamlines the logistics of production and distribution, allowing us to offer lower prices to our customers. Many merchants on Temu are reputable manufacturers with advanced production facilities, supplying to well-known US brands and retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. These manufacturers adhere to high industry standards and are recognised for their quality production. Temu is dedicated to upholding ethical labour practices. Our Third-Party Code of Conduct forbids any form of forced, child, or penal labour and requires adherence to all local labour laws, including those related to wages, working hours, voluntary employment, freedom of association, and the right to collective bargaining. We demand strict compliance with all regulatory standards and reserve the right to sever ties with any business that breaches our Code of Conduct or the law. As for the concern about forced labour in product compliance, we take this issue seriously. Our standards and practices align with those of major U.S. e-commerce platforms, such as Amazon, eBay, and Etsy, rendering any allegations completely ungrounded. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E242 · Sun, May 26, 2024
Part 1 - The truth about Temu
Amid a cost of living crisis, who can resist the invitation to “shop like a billionaire” at bargain-basement prices? Online juggernaut Temu is Australia’s most popular free app, offering a vast vortex of low-cost merchandise from fashion and homeware to toys and electronics. But amid the thrilling rush of retail therapy lie some serious questions: Where does this stuff come from? What are conditions like for those at the bottom of the supply chain? And what about the environment? On this episode of The Briefing Sacha talks to Sarah Rogan, senior labour rights campaigner at Oxfam. A Temu spokesperson says: Claims that Temu's competitive pricing is achieved through exploitative labour practices are unfounded. We urge a closer examination of our approach, which hinges on removing unnecessary expenses. Our cost-efficiency is due to a direct connection between consumers and manufacturers, cutting out middlemen and their markups. Our model also streamlines the logistics of production and distribution, allowing us to offer lower prices to our customers. Many merchants on Temu are reputable manufacturers with advanced production facilities, supplying to well-known US brands and retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. These manufacturers adhere to high industry standards and are recognised for their quality production. Temu is dedicated to upholding ethical labour practices. Our Third-Party Code of Conduct forbids any form of forced, child, or penal labour and requires adherence to all local labour laws, including those related to wages, working hours, voluntary employment, freedom of association, and the right to collective bargaining. We demand strict compliance with all regulatory standards and reserve the right to sever ties with any business that breaches our Code of Conduct or the law. As for the concern about forced labour in product compliance, we take this issue seriously. Our standards and practices align with those of major U.S. e-commerce platforms, such as Amazon, eBay, and Etsy, rendering any allegations completely ungrounded. Headlines: More than 600 feared dead in PNG landslides WA Premier describes murder of mother and daughter as ‘chilling’ Hamas launches rockets at Tel Aviv for the first time in months Donald Trump booed at Libertarian convention Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E241 · Fri, May 24, 2024
Abbie Chatfield on pretty privilege and the value of a hoe
Abbie Chatfield is an Australian media personality, television host, radio presenter and podcaster. She is best known for her appearances in reality television as both a contestant and host, she is also the host of Listnr podcast “its a lot.” In this episode of The Weekend Briefing Abbie tells Antoinette about the crime of bad change room lights, oversharing, unexpected fans and why she could never go on Farmer Wants a Wife. WEEKEND LIST TO WATCH OR NOT TO WATCH - Bridgerton TO DO - Check you credit cards statements TO DO - Theatre shows and cheap tickets in your city Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E240 · Fri, May 24, 2024
Have we heard the last of Sean 'Diddy' Combs?
Earlier this week, Sean “Diddy” Combs admitted to physically assaulting his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, back in 2016, after brutal footage of the attack started circulating online. After his fall from grace as one of the most successful and best-selling rap artists, will Diddy be cancelled? Or will we continue to hear his music online and on-air? Tim Burrowes is the founder of the media and marketing news website, Unmade. In this episode, he speaks with Sacha Barbour Gatt, unpacking when and why companies boycott artists with serious allegations and convictions, and the effectiveness of cancel culture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E239 · Thu, May 23, 2024
Can you catch a tic from TikTok?
There’s been a huge increase of Functional neurological disorder or FND in teenage girls since the pandemic and the rise of TikTok. FND occurs when there’s miscommunication between the body and brain and can often look a lot like tourettes, where people suffer from impulsive tics. Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Dr Amanda Maxwell, a clinical psychologist specialising in tics, to unpack why we are seeing a spike in the number of cases of FND. Headlines: Details of serious injuries suffered by Singapore Airlines passengers revealed Chinese military conducts drills around Taiwan Cassie Ventura, Diddy’s ex, speaks out Australia’s biggest ever lotto winner nabs $150 million Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E238 · Thu, May 23, 2024
The real reason AstraZeneca dumped its vaccine
AstraZeneca has withdrawn their Covid 19 vaccination after admitting it can cause rare blood clots. This month marks 50 years since the global rollout of the world’s first major vaccination program – with new research showing vaccines have saved over 154 million lives. Professor Margie Danchin is a paediatrician at the The Royal Children's Hospital and joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain the benefits and the side effects of vaccines. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E237 · Wed, May 22, 2024
Why some are celebrating the death of Iran's president
Iran’s president Ebrahim Raisi and the foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahain have both died during a helicopter crash earlier this week. What do these untimely deaths mean for the power structure in Iran, and to relations in the middle east? And why are some people happy to see the end of President Ebrahim Raisi’s leadership. In this episode, Antoinette Lattouf speaks with Middle East politics expert Professor Shahram Akbarzadeh to better understand the situation, and what we can expect to happen next. Headlines: Rishi Sunak announces snap UK general election Norway, Ireland and Spain to recognise Palestinian state Australian passengers on Singapore Airlines flight hit by turbulence start arriving home Mattel to make Mary Fowler Barbie Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E236 · Wed, May 22, 2024
Antoinette Lattouf is defending Gina Rinehart
Discourse around a portrait of Australia’s richest person has hit a fever pitch this week, after she made a private plea to have it removed from an exhibition. The painting of Gina Rinehart, by artist Vincent Namatjira, is hanging in Canberra’s National Gallery of Australia, and it’s sparked a debate about how we look at and consider art. Someone who can empathise with Rinehart in this instance is The Briefing’s Antoinette Lattouf who in this episode explains the relationship between art, society and our own vanity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E235 · Tue, May 21, 2024
David Littleproud wants a nuclear reactor in your suburb
Australians will be heading to the polls to vote in a federal election in 2025, and nuclear power is shaping up to be a key battleground. Labor is pushing ahead with renewables as the key source of green energy for Australia, but the Coalition thinks building reactors is the way to go. In fact, the Liberals and Nationals have already started polling community sentiment around nuclear energy in electorates where future reactors could be built. Nationals leader David Littleproud explains the Coalition's strategy to Sacha Barbour-Gatt - and why they believe it's the way to get to zero emissions. Headlines: One dead after Singapore Airlines flight hit by severe turbulence Australia to ban replica Ozempic drugs Government rejects claims it should condemn ICC Forget Melbourne or Sydney, Canberra offers the best quality of life Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E234 · Tue, May 21, 2024
Inside the tragedy of transgender homelessness
Trans men, women, and nonbinary young people are twice as likely to experience homelessness compared to cis-queer men and women. Australian research found that one in five young trans people have experienced homelessness and data from the Trans Justice Project saw an increase in anti-trans hate in the year leading up to April 2023 Activists say we are not doing enough to support the transgender community in their moment of need, Laura Pettigrew from the LiSTNR Newsroom joins Simon Beaton to talk us through details. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E233 · Mon, May 20, 2024
You’ve heard of Insomnia - but what about Sexsomnia?
Sexsomnia is a sleep disorder that causes people to engage in sexual behaviors in their sleep, such as dirty talk, masturbating and even intercourse. The disorder occurs in the deepest stages of sleep and unsurprisingly it raises many questions around consent. How can consent be maintained when a partner is unconscious? And can sexsomnia be used as a defence in cases of sexual assault? Aleks Trkulja from the Pleasure Centre and specialist sleep physician Dr David Cunnington joins Helen Smith to explain how common sexsomnia is. Headlines: ICC issues arrest warrants for Israel and Hamas leaders Julian Assange granted leave to appeal extradition to the US Sam Kerr trial date set Sussan Ley calls for Diddy boycott Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E232 · Mon, May 20, 2024
Nitazene - the super-strength opioid turning up in our party drugs
A new drug has been detected in Australia that can be up to 25 times stronger than fentanyl – which is already stronger than heroin. Introducing nitazene, an incredibly dangerous synthetic opioid that was linked to over 20 overdoses in western Sydney and was found in Canberra’s pill testing service for the first time over the weekend. Professor Suzanne Nielsen, the Deputy Director of the Monash Addiction Research Centre, joins Simon Beaton to explain the dangers of nitazene which could be lacing your party drugs. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E231 · Sun, May 19, 2024
How to catch a killer when you don't have the body
The search for a missing person can capture the attention of the entire nation. Currently, we’re waiting to hear the outcome of an appeal of Chris Dawson, who was convicted of killing his wife Lynette Joy Simms in December of 1982, despite her body never being found. So what happens behind the scenes of one of these investigations? And how is someone charged with murder when a body is never located? Journalist Tessa Randello from the LiSTNR Newsroom has spoken with former New South Wales Detective Anthony Macklin about this topic. On this episode, she unpacks what she’s found out with Sacha Barbour Gatt. Headlines: Iran’s President missing after helicopter crash Charges laid in Sydney police stabbing Sean 'Diddy' Combs admits to DV 700 ‘Kyles’ not enough to break world record Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E230 · Fri, May 17, 2024
Scott Morrison’s most awkward interview ever?
Scott Morrison is the 30th Prime Minister of Australia, lover of chicken curries and author of his new book - Plans For Your Good: A Prime Minister's Testimony of God's Faithfulness Morrison has had his fair share of controversies over the years - Hawaii, his response to COVID and his many ministries. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Morrison opens up about his time as PM, repenting his sins and his impact on Australians. Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E229 · Fri, May 17, 2024
Harrison Butker wants women to graduate to "wife" and "mother"
Social media has gone into meltdown after a video from a US college commencement speech went viral. The footage shows NFL player and Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker addressing the female graduates in the crowd, telling them that ultimately, their main and most valuable vocation in life is being a wife and mother. Butker has sparked a storm of criticism, the NFL even coming out to distance itself from his comments. In the post #MeToo world and amidst a spike in violence against women in Australia, we’re breaking down and debunking Butker’s comments and why they are so dangerous.'' Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E228 · Thu, May 16, 2024
AI just got more human, should we be afraid?
This week Chat GPT revealed the next steps in the way their AI interacts with humans. Now the interface can recognise emotions and have more nuanced conversations with the user. Meanwhile Google has revealed its new AI assistant “Astra” and their plans to scrabble back searches previously lost to Chat GPT by integrating more AI into Google search. But what is the cost of greater humanising of AI? And is it safe? Tech entrepreneur Ashi Bhat joins The Briefing to unpack the AI rat race. Headlines: Peter Dutton wants to slash immigration Company at the centre of major data hack revealed ANU and Deakin University move to shut down pro-Palestine encampments Namatjira responds to Rinehart portrait controversy Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E227 · Thu, May 16, 2024
Great holidays. Secure job. So why are teachers quitting?
Australia is in the grip of a teacher shortage that is a decade in the making. New research by McCrindle has revealed more than half of educators are considering leaving the profession. On top of that, teaching is increasingly becoming an aging profession, with 20% of the workforce to reach retirement age over the next decade. On today’s briefing, we speak with social researcher and demographer, Mark McCrindle, to explore why this is happening and what’s being done to attract more people to study teaching. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E226 · Wed, May 15, 2024
Do we have a secret role in the war in Gaza?
For over half a century, the US and Australia have operated Pine Gap - a joint top-secret spy base at Alice Springs in the heart of outback Australia Today, concern is mounting that spies at Pine Gap may be eavesdropping on the Middle East and passing critical information on to the Israeli Defence Force. This would mean Australia is playing a role in the conflict, raising serious questions about the public’s right to know how our land, resources and geographical advantage is being deployed, especially when it makes us a nuclear target for foreign powers. Today we’re joined by Alice Springs journalist Alexandra Barwick, host of new ABC podcast Spies in the Outback, to assess the evidence and get a local perspective. Headlines: Sydney council reverses same sex parent book ban Slovakia PM shot in assassination attempt Labor senator breaks ranks to label Israel’s war in Gaza genocide Gina Rinehart has demanded the National Gallery of Australia remove a portrait of her Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E225 · Wed, May 15, 2024
How Coca-Cola is selling you bottled water you already own
When you take a gulp of bottled Mt Franklin spring water, you might imagine it comes from a pristine and abundant water source in an exotic wilderness location. But In reality, Coca-Cola has been legally pumping groundwater for free out of a bore on the outskirts of Perth in WA to sell as bottled water for 32 years. And now residents have had enough. They’re worried about the amount of water being extracted without obvious oversight in a region that’s drying out and prone to fire. WA Water Minister Simone McGurk talks to Simon Beaton about what she's doing to hold Coca-Cola to account. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E224 · Tue, May 14, 2024
Federal Budget - The top five things that matter the most
Last night, Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down the Budget, aka the economic plan for the next four years and beyond. On the positive side, he delivered his second consecutive surplus and a bunch of cost of living sweeteners – including a new $300 payment in energy bill relief for every Australian household, which he reckons will help put downward pressure on inflation. We saw more detail on Treasury’s optimistic new forecast showing inflation will drop below 3% by Christmas, plus the things we knew already about like Stage 3 tax cuts and $3 billion in student debt being wiped. But on the negative side: critics have described it as a “band aid” budget that relies on a lot of variables for its economic outlook, benefits billionaires and multinationals and could actually make inflation worse. And while the Treasurer can pat himself on the back for this year’s surplus of $9.3 billion, looks like we’re heading deep into the red next year with a $28.3 billion deficit, followed by a $42.8 per cent deficit in 2025-26. With an election looming, the year ahead will be critical in determining if he hit the right note between bringing inflation under control without hurting the economy. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E223 · Tue, May 14, 2024
Is Vladimir Putin about to hit the nuclear button?
Russian President Vladimir Putin is threatening nuclear war as his invasion of the Ukraine continues. Putin last week ordered Russian troops to perform military exercises to prepare for the use of tactical nuclear weapons. Tactical nukes are generally smaller and less powerful than traditional nuclear weapons, but use of such weapons would be catastrophic. It’s now been more than 800 days since Russia’s massive ground invasion of Ukraine, a military operation supposedly intended to only run for ten days. In this episode of The Briefing, Benison speaks to Dr Keith Suter, former President of the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Sydney about why Putin would make this new threat now, and just how worried should we be in this moment. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E222 · Mon, May 13, 2024
Copycat stabbings: is social media fuelling knife crimes?
It’s been a month since the horrific attack at Bondi Junction Westfield, during which a man stabbed 18 people, killing six. Most of his victims were women. The event was heavily reported on by the media, and in the wake of the tragedy we’ve seen dozens more instances of violent knife crime right around Australia. It may feel like we’re seeing an increase in these sort of attacks, but is that true? What do the stats tell us? And does more media reporting mean more people want to copy what they see? Criminologist Xanthe Mallett from the University of Newcastle joins the Briefing to breakdown Australia’s knife crime. Headlines: NSW moves on new bail laws for domestic violence offenders X no longer forced to remove videos of Wakeley church stabbing Treasurer to announce $9.3 billion surplus in tonight’s budget #Blockout2024: Celebs lose hundreds of thousands of followers over their silence on Gaza and insane displays of wealth Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E221 · Mon, May 13, 2024
Dementia kills children at the same rate as cancer. Here's why.
Childhood and dementia aren’t two words you’d expect to hear together, but children are dying from this disease at the same rate as they are dying from cancer. One in every 2,900 children are born with childhood dementia, a progressive disease that is caused by rare neurodegenerative genetic disorders It’s a heart-breaking condition that has historically received little attention and research hours. In this episode of The Briefing Antoinette chats to Meg Maack, Director and CEO of the Childhood Dementia Initiative, about what a new grant will mean for those suffering and their families. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E220 · Sun, May 12, 2024
The Atlantic ocean current that will change life as we know it
There’s a critical current in the Atlantic that moves heat, carbon, and nutrients from the tropics, which is cooled and sinks once it reaches the Arctic. The current is important because it helps regulate climate on Earth. Now this current is slowing, and it’s impact on global climate could be disastrous. At the same time we’ve seen the end of a hot, dry, El Nino weather pattern, which came after three back-to-back wet La Nina’s....and there’s a strong chance that we could see another La Nina next season too – a frequency and sequence that’s never been recorded before. So are these two weather systems linked? Could this be a sign that things might be changing faster than expected? Professor Matthew England from the University of NSW joins host Simon Beaton to answer these questions and more. Headlines: Inflation could fall to within target range by the end of the year US steps up condemnation of Israel Man who received first pig kidney transplant dies Aussies go wild for Aurora Australis Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E219 · Sat, May 11, 2024
Making space for the motherless on Mother's Day
For most families, Mother’s Day is about celebrating our mums and all they do for us. But for those whose Mum is no longer around, it can be a pretty tough day. New research shows this is having a big impact on women, with over 1 million losing their Mum before the age of 44. Now there are fears their grief is being ignored with women reporting higher rates of depression, anxiety, prolonged grief and post-traumatic stress. So, is their pain being ignored? And what can be done to raise more awareness to make sure they get the help they need? On today’s episode of The Briefing, we talk to Danielle Snelling – the Co-Founder of Motherless Daughters Australia to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E218 · Fri, May 10, 2024
Keiynan Lonsdale: The Western Sydney kid who made it big in Hollywood
Keiynan Lonsdale grew up in Sydney’s Western suburbs, with 11 siblings and a dream to make it in Hollywood. From the small screen with shows like ABC’s dance academy to the big screen with Love Simon – he’s ticking off his bucket list. Now after being in the music industry for 16 years Keiynan is embarking on his first headline tour. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Keiynan breaks down his latest role in SBS a Swift Street and what it was like to come out on Instagram. You can find a Swift Street on SBS on demand here WEEKEND LIST TO EAT - Eggplant and meatball pasta from Antoinette's adopted Nonna TO WATCH - Unfrosted on Netflix TO EAT - Deconstructed sushi bowls TO LISTEN - Any soundtrack from Lin-Manuel Miranda Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E217 · Fri, May 10, 2024
Your guide to Eurovision 2024
This year marks the 68th Eurovision Song Contest. Starting out as an expression of unity and goodwill after WWII and a technical experiment to create a live televised music competition across so many borders, Eurovision now features 37 countries, including Australia. So what happened with our entry for this year? And what else has been most controversial throughout the competition? In this episode, Bension Siebert and Chris Spyrou unpack the history, the scandals, and what’s been most topical so far in this year’s Eurovision event. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E216 · Thu, May 09, 2024
How Cosmo plans to make the comeback of the century
Once upon a time, women’s magazines had a place on every hairdresser’s bench top, family kitchen table and teenager’s bedside drawer. That all changed with the advent and surging dominance of online media – and magazine numbers slowly dwindled with dozens of titles axed in Australia. Now, Cosmopolitan, one of Australia’s favourite magazines for women is making a comeback. Publisher of Cosmo, Katarina Kroslakova from KK Press, talks to Sacha Barbour Gatt about why Cosmo is making a comeback now and how she plans to make it successful. Headlines: Joe Biden says the US won’t supply weapons to Israel for Rafah invasion The Federal Government wants us to have more babies TikTok, Meta bosses to be grilled on how they damage society in senate inquiry Apple cops it over piano crushing ad Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E215 · Thu, May 09, 2024
Facing the consequences of our Baby Reindeer obsession
Some true crime content – like The Teacher’s Pet or Up and Vanished has helped lead detectives to suspects, even resulting in convictions on cold cases. But armchair detectives don’t always get it right – like the TikTok star in Idaho who wrongfully accused a professor of murder. Take the popular Netflix series Baby Reindeer , based on a wild, but true story. Fans have started to investigate the real-life people characters were based on, despite the writer and director going to pretty great lengths to try to keep their true identities private. Is online sleuthing here to stay? And can it cause greater harm than good? In this episode, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Greg Stratton from RMIT, who is currently writing a book about true crime and wrongful convictions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E214 · Wed, May 08, 2024
Drake v Kendrick Lamar isn't just a war of words
Popular rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar are currently embroiled in a very public spat. It’s a feud that has a long history, but things have really escalated. Hip hop journo and author Simone Amelia Jordan explains why this feud is more than petty online drama. Headlines: US pauses weapons delivery to Israel amid Rafah offensive Treasurer forecasts a growth in disposable incomes in Budget sneak peak Stormy Daniels details Donald Trump encounter in hush money trial World reaches crucial clean energy turning point Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E213 · Wed, May 08, 2024
Confronting the instigator of the same-sex book ban
A local council in Sydney has voted to ban books about same-sex parents from its libraries. Six Cumberland City Councillors voted in favour of the ban, while five, including Mayor Lisa Lake, opposed it. The New South Wales Government has warned it could breach the Anti-Discrimination Act and even threatened to pull the council’s library funding, as a result. Councillor Steve Christou proposed the ban, arguing that most of the council’s constituents are conservative and religious, and don't want “any form of sexualised experiences” available to children in the library. But is a same-sex parenting book sexualised content? In this episode, Bension Siebert speaks with Councillor Steve Christou to find out why he proposed the ban. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E212 · Tue, May 07, 2024
Why Australia’s birth rate is lower than ever
Australia’s birth rate has been in a relatively steady decline since a peak in the early 1960s. It’s rebounded a small amount after hitting a record low in 2020, but it still sits well below the total fertility rate of 2.1 that’s needed for a population to sustain itself. Is that a bad thing for Australia? And how does the rest of the world compare? On today’s deep dive we speak with Professor Amanda Davies from the School of Social Sciences at the University of Western Australia to try to answer those questions. Headlines: Parents of slain Aussie brothers speak for the first time Israel takes control of Palestinian side of Rafah crossing as ceasefire deal stalls Interest rates staying at 4.35 per cent TikTok sues to block US law that’d ban the app Mona’s ‘Ladies Lounge’ could become a toilet or church in a bid to keep men out Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E211 · Tue, May 07, 2024
This is why Israel is about to invade Rafah
Israeli tanks have reportedly been spotted just 200 metres from the edge of Rafah, less than a day after an estimated 100,000 Palestinian civilians were ordered to evacuate. Bordering on Egypt, the southernmost city of Gaza has become the last refuge for around 1.4 million Palestinians who have fled the violence and destruction elsewhere. The impending invasion comes after Hamas agreed to a proposed ceasefire that was declined by Israel, and after the forced the closure of foreign media outlet Al Jazeera - one of the only media broadcasters active from the Gaza strip. To explain more, Bension Siebert is joined by Antony Loewenstein, an independent journalist, film-maker and author of the best-selling book, The Palestine Laboratory. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E210 · Mon, May 06, 2024
Why witch hunts are still happening in 2024
Witch hunts aren’t just the stuff of colonial America; they’re happening right now all around the world. People are still being persecuted and often murdered on suspicion of being involved in witchcraft, in a trend that’s currently being driven by fundamental Christianity, poverty and civil conflict. On today’s briefing we’re joined by Professor Miranda Forsyth to find out who is at risk, why they’re being targeted and what’s being done to address the issue. Headlines: Hamas accepts “softened” ceasefire deal Tributes for Aussie brothers killed in Mexico Judge in Trump hush money trial threatens jail as ex-President breaches gag order for a 10th time Met Gala Monday is here Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E209 · Mon, May 06, 2024
How our youth are being radicalised, and how we can stop it
Over the weekend in Perth, a sixteen-year-old boy has been shot dead by police after allegedly wounding a man who was unknown to him with a knife. WA Premier Roger Cook has said that there were indications that the teenager had been radicalised online. The news comes just weeks after Sydney's Wakeley church attack, where another 16-year-old boy allegedly stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, in what has been labelled a terrorist act. In this episode, Bension Siebert speaks with internationally renowned expert on terrorism and extremism, Deakin University Professor Greg Barton, to establish how big of an issue radicalisation is in Australia, and what is being done to prevent and safeguard our youth. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E208 · Sun, May 05, 2024
Could Beijing be underwater in 100 years?
Cities in China are sinking and satellite imagery shows Beijing is among one of the fastest going under. According to a new study in the journal Science, development and groundwater pumping are causing land subsidence and heightening the risks of sea level rise. Within 100 years, a quarter of China’s urban coastal land could sit below sea level. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Robert Nicholls, a climate scientist and civil engineer at the University of East Anglia who reviewed the paper to find out why China’s cities are sinking and what can be done to fix the problem Headlines: Israel shuts down Al Jazeera Labor to introduce weekly payment for nursing, teaching students on placements Free Madonna concert draws crowd of 1.6 million in Rio de Janeiro Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E207 · Fri, May 03, 2024
Ziggy Ramo wants you to feel uncomfortable
Ziggy Ramo is a Wik man, powerful storyteller and rapper - but it took him fives years to release his first album because the world wasn't ready to embrace his art and perspective. Soon after the Black Lives Matter movement Ziggy set his words into the world releasing his music and he’s now written a book – his memoir – Human? In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Ziggy explains how racism in Australia continues to dehumanise groups of people and what lead him to rap. Ziggy will be appearing speaking throughout the Melbourne Writers Festival and on May 10th Jan Fran will be joining Ziggy live. Event details here WEEKEND LIST TO READ - Pheasants Nest by Louise Milligan TO EAT- Pasta salad by Emily English on TikTok TO WATCH - Baby Reindeer on Netflix TO LISTEN - I Forgot to Tell You Something podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E206 · Fri, May 03, 2024
Why smut is the new porn
Smut used to be the kind of genre you’d find hidden away in the back corner of bookstores. But not anymore. Now, smut series are being featured on the New York Times Best Sellers list, and a quick search of #spicybook or #smut on TikTok will find hundreds of thousands of videos. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its issues. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Esmé Louise James, author of “Kinky History”, to find out about the history of smut, discuss problematic characters, and get her personal smutty recommendations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E205 · Thu, May 02, 2024
The Matildas effect: Is the soccer boom here to stay?
Since the Matildas world cup frenzy we’ve seen a rise in soccer participation numbers – not just for young girls – but also boys and older women too. The A League Women season will come to a close tomorrow with Melbourne City taking on Sydney FC in what will hopefully be a record-breaking crowd. On today’s briefing, we chat to Moya Dodd, lawyer, sports administrator and former Matilda, to find out if these numbers are sustainable. Headlines: Police dismantle UCLA pro-Palestine encampment as Biden speaks out New ad campaign to show misogynistic social media feeds Aussie kids are seeing Australia’s housing crisis not going anywhere Sex scenes decline by 40% in Hollywood flicks Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E204 · Thu, May 02, 2024
Are nicotine pouches the new vapes?
Snus is a small tobacco sachet placed between your gum and upper lip. But now there’s a new form of ‘snussing’, with products that take out the tobacco and replace it with flavours like cool mint, espresso, or bellini, and leave in the nicotine. Advertised on TikTok as an alternative to vaping, following a federal crackdown on non-prescription vapes, are these products just another sneaky way to keep the tobacco industry alive? In this episode, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Associate Professor Becky Freeman, from the School of Public Health at Sydney University, to learn more about nicotine pouches and their growing popularity in Australia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E203 · Wed, May 01, 2024
Inside student camps for Palestine at Australian universities
A movement is growing around the world protesting Israel’s offensive against Palestine in the Middle East. This time it feels different. More than 100 students at Columbia University in New York were arrested last month when the college called in police to break up their protest, an encampment in the university’s quadrangle. Riot police were called in yesterday to remove students from a campus building. The arrests at Columbia marked a defining moment in the global protest – and similar protest encampments are springing up on campuses across the globe. In this episode of The Briefing, LiSTNR reporter Helen Smith visits an encampment at Sydney University to find out how and why the students have decided to join the global campaign. Headlines: What’s come out of yesterday’s National Cabinet meeting on domestic violence? US Uni protests escalate into violence New AI chatbot launching on our iPhones Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E202 · Wed, May 01, 2024
Driverless cars. Would you climb into an autonomous vehicle?
Experiments on driverless - or autonomous - cars began 100 years ago, but only in the last twenty years have they become a genuine reality. Elon Musk's Telsa announced last month it was launching an autonomous taxi. How do they work? How safe are they? And how long will it be before we're all expected to share the road with autonomous vehicles? In this episode of The Briefing, we're joined by James Ward from Drive.com.au to discuss the latest developments in autonomous vehicles. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E201 · Tue, April 30, 2024
Arman's dad killed his mum. Here's how he broke the cycle
Over the last few weeks, our national conversation has been heavily focused on the number of lives that have been taken by men because of domestic violence. Arman Abrahimzadeh lost his mother to domestic violence in 2010 when his father murdered her in front of 300 people. Since then Arman has dedicated his life to trying to end family and domestic abuse - talking to perpetrators in prisons, young people and across schools. On this episode, Arman joins us to discuss how we can stop the abuse, stop re-offenders, and protect victim-survivors. Lifeline - 13 11 14 1800RESPECT - 1800 737 732 Headlines: National Cabinet to discuss tracking DV offenders, online content Donald Trump fined $13,000 and threatened with jail time over gag order Bonza enters voluntary administration King Charles returns to public duties Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E200 · Tue, April 30, 2024
Ozempic has revolutionised weight loss. Can it help with addiction too?
Ozempic is the new wonder drug sweeping the world of weight loss. But now a new surprising side effect has potentially been uncovered. There's anecdotal evidence that semaglutide – the active ingredient in Ozempic, may also be able to reduce the desire for alcohol, cigarettes and other drugs. Now, research is being undertaken to find out if science can back up those claims. In this episode of The Briefing, Simon Beaton speaks with Dr Leigh Walker from the Florey Institute to find out what we know already, and how safe Ozempic could be to treat addictions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E199 · Mon, April 29, 2024
Does forcing mentally ill people into treatment work?
Imagine going to your doctor and having treatment forced upon you. This is called compulsory treatment and in Australia it’s legal. Compulsory mental health treatment is when a psychiatrist believes that a patient is at a severe risk of harming themselves or others, who can then be forced to take medication or undergo treatment. But how subjective is that decision on labelling the risk? And if the medical practitioner gets it wrong it means a loss of their rights, and quite often incredibly strong and debilitating medication. Dr Kay Wilson from the University of Melbourne joins the Briefing to explain how compulsory treatment works and the stigmas attached to mental health in Australia. Headlines: 30% spike in women killed by intimate partners last year US hopeful Hamas will accept new ceasefire offer Telcos to be forced to prioritise Triple Zero functions in outages News from the Royals Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E198 · Mon, April 29, 2024
Finland is ending homelessness, so could we do it here too?
At least 120-thousand people are experiencing homelessness in any given night in Australia. And this isn't a problem that only we are facing, with many countries around the globe struggling to tackle the homelessness issue. However, this isn’t the case in Finland. In their capital, Helsinki, the government aims to end homelessness – or get it down to where becoming homeless is likely to be very temporary for most people – by 2025. So how are they doing this? And could Australia learn from what they’re doing right? On this episode, Bension Siebert speaks with Juha Kahila, Head of International Affairs at the Y-Foundation, as he joins us from Finland. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E197 · Sun, April 28, 2024
"Playboy Rapist” survivor on how we can stop more women dying
Huge crowds gathered at the weekend to protest laws that see high-risk offenders released on bail. As anger mounts over this year’s soaring domestic violence death toll, we speak with Kay Schubach, a domestic violence survivor about what really needs to change to stop more Australian women dying at the hands of offenders released by our courts. In this episode of The Briefing, Kay joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to talk about what we can all do – from the public to government and judicial system - to break the horrific cycle of post-custody attacks by high-risk domestic violence offenders. Headlines: Emergency National Cabinet meeting called after weekend of gender violence rallies Antony Blinken to travel to Saudi Arabia to help restart ceasefire talks Australia’s Defence Minister has spent the weekend in Ukraine Titanic watch breaks records at auction Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E196 · Sat, April 27, 2024
How Tim Duggan got out of a one million dollar tax bill
Do you feel like you have a good work-life balance? It’s something that most people struggle with, particularly with current cost-of-living pressures. Tim Duggan is the co-founder of Junkee Media. As a young man who launched several digital media platforms he knows a thing or two about work life balance. He’s also the author of several books, his latest is called Work Backwards . In this interview with Tom Tilley he talks about what he did with the freedom to choose his work, after selling Junkee for around 15 million dollars. Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E195 · Fri, April 26, 2024
Nina Oyama is an iPad kid who wants us to hire more lesbians
Nina Oyama wants people to hire more lesbians. She also has a fondness for iPads over mobiles. But most of all, Nina is funny. She’s a comedian, actor and award-winning writer and director who can go from smutty stand-up to sweet characters on screen. Her portrayal of the uptight eco warrior Courtney in Utopia or the anxious policewoman Abby in Deadloch being some of her stand out performances. Her latest live show is called 'Nina Oyama is Coming' and in this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, she explains why you’ll never look back if you hire a lesbian and why her greatest achievement in life involves hanging upside down. Tickets to Nina's show here WEEKEND LIST TO LISTEN - Ushers album Coming Home TO TRY - Foot lotion and socks TO TRY - Order coffee using fake names TO LISTEN - Clara Bow Scandal series on Shameless Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E194 · Fri, April 26, 2024
Australia's space rocket industry is about to really take off
A rocket is set to take off soon from North Queensland, becoming the first locally made orbital rocket to blast off from Australian soil. It will also mark our country as one of only twelve around the globe that can boast space launch technology that goes from build to launch. Yet, strangely enough, this rocket is highly likely to fail. On this episode, Bension Siebert speaks with LiSTNR journalist, Courtney Thomas, to discuss why it’s so significant, and why the small town of Bowen, south of Townsville, has been chosen for the launch site. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E193 · Thu, April 25, 2024
Is Columbia University a defining moment in student protest?
Columbia University in New York this week called in police to arrest pro-Palestinian protestors. Universities have always championed free speech. Is Columbia a sign of the changing nature of protest in our tertiary institutions? Once places that encouraged challenging discussions on politics and culture. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Tim Briedis, an academic and historian from the University of Sydney who specialises in the history of student activism, to discuss how and why protest culture at our universities has changed and what it means for the future of dialogue on politics and culture. Headlines: Harvey Weinstein’s 2020 rape conviction has been overturned E-safety: Dutton says we can’t police the world Australians hit by biggest tax increase in the world 100 whales saved off the coast of WA The iconic Moulin Rouge sails have fallen off Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E192 · Thu, April 25, 2024
The outback pub where two-up is legal all year round
At pubs around the country, people are watching pairs of coins tossed in the air for the classic ANZAC Day tradition of playing two-up. In most parts of Australia it’s illegal to play this quintessentially Australian game any day other than ANZAC Day. But one pub in Broken Hill – the far west New South Wales mining town near the border South Australia – it's played legally every Friday night. So how is it that two-up is legal any time of the year are mid-sized pub in the middle of the outback? Ringmaster of two-up at the Palace Hotel in Broken Hill Fisk Nagas joins Bension Siebert to explain. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E191 · Wed, April 24, 2024
The rise and rise of ANZAC day
On this Anzac Day morning, we reflect on the rise and rise of Anzac Day and how only a generation ago, it was declining before a huge upsurge in interest and favour in the late 1990s. The day has not always been as revered as it is today. We’re joined by Anzac historian Mat McLachlan to discuss the current popularity of Anzac Day, and whether it will survive into the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E190 · Wed, April 24, 2024
Would tougher bail laws make women safer?
At the beginning of this week, a woman was allegedly murdered by her former partner while he was out on bail. He’d been charged with her rape as well as intimidation. The alleged incident has thrown our bail laws into sharp relief, with both federal and state politicians pledging to do more to keep women safe. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Dr Terry Goldsworthy, an associate professor in criminology at Bond University, about whether our bail laws need to change. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E189 · Tue, April 23, 2024
More parents are choosing to keep their kids off socials
Social media has become entrenched in our society, replacing town squares and the water cooler as the place we come together to share our lives, our thoughts and our ideas. But the internet can be a dangerous place, especially for kids, where predators lurk, scams are rife and content inappropriate for young eyes is readily available. Even innocent trends can prove dangerous; think intense skincare regimes designed for 30- somethings becoming popular among little kids who just want to be like their favourite influencer. So, it’s no surprise that new research has revealed parents are looking to delay their children’s entry into the world of social media – but are they fighting a losing battle? Headlines: Donald Trump is back in court for day two of his criminal trial 200 days of war on Gaza Coalition to call for compulsory age verification on social media Indigenous spears returned from Cambridge University Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E188 · Tue, April 23, 2024
Meet the double act who want to be Australia's first job-sharing MP
For the first time, two independent candidates are attempting to run for federal parliament as ‘job-sharing candidates’. Lucy Bradlow and Bronwen Bock want to run for the Melbourne seat of Higgins as a single candidate on the ballot paper. They claim that they could do the role like any other job-share – splitting duties, making join decisions, sharing the salary – and that allowing job-sharing would make parliament more representative of modern Australian society. But is it constitutionally legal for two people to run as a single federal member? And how would this actually work? Joining Bension Siebert are the job-sharing independent candidates for the singular seat of Higgins in Melbourne, Bronwen Bock and Lucy Bradlow. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E187 · Mon, April 22, 2024
Doctors Note: The consequences
Today, we bring you the final episode of our exclusive, three-part special investigation into the risky new frontier of Australia's healthcare system. The Briefing's investigative team went undercover online to expose the risks Australia's government, medical regulators and doctors' groups are only now beginning to realise. The investigation reveals how the crisis in Australia's GP practices has degraded the way healthcare being is done online - including by doctors working for one of this country's biggest corporations. In our last part of Doctors Note - we find out the consequences for doctors who practice this kind of healthcare, and hear from the people meant to keep us safe about what they're going to do about it. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E186 · Mon, April 22, 2024
Doctors Note: The sting operation
Today, we bring you the second part of our exclusive, three-part special investigation into the risky new frontier of Australia's healthcare system. The Briefing's investigative team went undercover online to expose the risks Australia's government, medical regulators and doctors' groups are only now beginning to realise. The investigation reveals how the crisis in Australia's GP practices has degraded the way healthcare being is done online - including by doctors working for one of this country’s biggest corporations. In part two of Doctors Note - we show you how we went undercover, and expose the potential danger that online medical services pose to your health. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E185 · Sun, April 21, 2024
Doctors Note: What you don't know could kill you
Today, we bring you the first part of our exclusive, three-part special investigation into the risky new frontier of Australia's healthcare system. The Briefing's investigative team went undercover online to expose the risks Australia's government, medical regulators and doctors' groups are only now beginning to realise. The investigation reveals how the crisis in Australia's GP practices has degraded the way healthcare being is done online - including by doctors working for one of this country’s biggest corporations. In part one of Doctors Note - why patients around the country are vulnerable to a new kind of healthcare that has experts alarmed. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E184 · Sat, April 20, 2024
How Andreas Lundin survived Alone Australia and eating possum
Alone has been dubbed the most successful original commission in SBS history. The series is a reality show like never before, where 10 people get dropped into a remote environment completely alone to see who can survive for the longest. Andreas Lundin, a former model, personal trainer and hunter, was part of Australia's season two. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Andreas explains the strategy he used and what a possum tastes like. Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E183 · Fri, April 19, 2024
Esme Louise James is the kinkiest historian you'll ever meet
History is a lot of things. Fascinating, confronting, sometimes shameful, often brutal, and also incredibly kinky. Esme Louise James is a sex historian – her work explores the history of human sexuality – including hidden queer histories, plus kinks and fetishes throughout the ages. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Esme reveals her favourite historical kinky and her TMI moments whilst working with her Mum. WEEKEND LIST WATCH- Esme Louise James TedX EAT- Glass noodle jar salads TRY- Clothes swap with friends TRY-Adult colouring books Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E182 · Fri, April 19, 2024
'Cicada-geddon' is about to sweep across America
This spring, up to 16 states across the US will see a natural phenomenon of spectacular proportions not seen in over 200 years, as an estimated trillion periodical cicadas emerge in the same season. While there are over 1,500 different species of cicada, only seven emerge as a brood every 7 years, 13 years or 17 years. Because these cycles are all prime numbers, it is incredibly rare that the different broods emerge during the same year. But 2024 is one of those years. The Briefing's Simon Beaton spoke with one of Australia's leading cicada experts, Lindsay Popple, to find out more about these strange insects, and what a trillion cicadas will mean for the US. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E181 · Thu, April 18, 2024
Could we be seeing the end of trial by jury? Higgins Judge weighs in
This week lawyers in New York are trying to pick the jury for Donald Trump’s trial. On the first day more than 50 potential jurors were dismissed, with many saying they couldn’t be impartial. In this episode of The Briefing we ask Chief Justice Lucy McCallum about the future of juries. Justice McCallum presided over the trial between Bruce Lehrmann and Brittany Higgins— that case ultimately had to be abandoned due to juror misconduct. Headlines: 16-year-old charged with terrorist act Seven CEO James Warburton departs network Vape shops could be forced to close Cocaine mystery solved Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E180 · Thu, April 18, 2024
After Bondi, here's what you should know about schizophrenia
Australia was shocked as a mass stabbing event unfolded at Sydney’s Westfield Bondi Junction shopping centre at the weekend. The centre reopened today for quiet reflection. Retail outlets did not open, trade will recommence tomorrow. The 40-year-old Queensland man Joel Cauchi, who was responsible for the attacks was diagnosed with schizophrenia as a teenager, and spent more than 20 years trying to navigate life while suffering from schizophrenia. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Professor Patrick McGorry, former Australian of the Year, and career advocate for the mentally ill, to try to learn exactly what schizophrenia is, and how families and loved ones of those who suffer from the condition live with the challenge of managing their loved ones’ lives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E179 · Wed, April 17, 2024
Something in the water? The Boomer stare explained
The health issues associated with long-term lead poisoning are not secret and governments around the world have been making moves since the 1970s to limit our exposure to the element. But there’s a theory floating around that the damage has already been done and its impacts are being seen clearly on an entire generation – the Baby Boomers. The ‘Boomer stare’ is a trend that’s taken off on TikTok and today we’re going to find out if we really can blame lead for changing the personalities of a generation. Assistant Professor at Michigan State University Ted Schwaba is our guest on this episode of The Briefing to explain if the ‘Boomer stare’ is for real. Headlines: Bondi Junction to reopen for “community reflection” Father of alleged teenage attacker says he’s seen signs of “disobedience” Communications minister pledges to fine X and Meta over hosting misinformation and disinformation Kaylee McKeown breaks record in the pool Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E178 · Wed, April 17, 2024
Behind the evil tech that DV offenders use to maintain control
Malware, spyware and stalkerware programs give unauthorised and undetected insight into another person’s device. All too often, they are used as an insidious tool for domestic violence offenders. Installed without consent or knowledge of the victim, the software gives the perpetrator control to track the user, read their messages, or even discreetly activate the phone's microphone or camera. In this episode, Bension Siebert speaks with cyber forensic expert, Rose MacDonald, to find out how victims can determine if their phones are bugged, and what needs to happen to better protect domestic violence survivors against technology-facilitated abuse. If you'd like to hear more about Rose's story and her work in digital forensics, check out her recent episode on Crime Insiders: FORENSICS . This episode contains references to intimate partner violence and coercive control. For support, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E177 · Tue, April 16, 2024
The significance of Iran's strike on Israel explained
Iran dropped 300 missiles and drones on Israeli territory over the weekend after an air strike on Iran’s consulate in Syria last week. Most were intercepted – as many as 99% according to Israel – but it is being deemed a watershed moment in the conflict. Professor Michael Humphrey from the University of Sydney joins the Briefing to explain the significance of the strike globally. Headlines: An update on Sydney’s stabbings A blow to Julian Assange’s bid to avoid extradition to the US Linda Reynolds to proceed with case against Brittany Higgins Supermarket bosses grilled at Senate inquiry Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E176 · Tue, April 16, 2024
Why Gen Z needs a crash course in communication
The National Institute of Dramatic Art has launched a new course to help teach Gen Z how to be in an office environment after they came of age during the pandemic. The course called ‘Prologue’ was created off the back of research showing younger workers have a skills gap when it comes to offline interaction, like picking up a phone instead of sending an email or text. In this episode of The Briefing, we speak with researcher Claire Madden about the skills Gen Z are apparently lacking, and how NIDA plans to teach them. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E175 · Mon, April 15, 2024
Sex work in 2024: Is the world’s oldest profession still worth it?
Sex work is often referred to as the world’s oldest profession, and our attitudes to it are rapidly evolving. The language around it has changed, and public figures from politicians to influencers are being more open about it than ever. The shame and stigma around the profession seems weaker now than even a few years ago. So, what does sex work look like in Australia in 2024? In this four-part series, The Briefing dives deeper into the profession, where it’s been and where it’s going. In our final part of the series, we speak with Nova Hawthorne, one of Australia’s most successful Only Fans creator, to get a peek behind the curtain of the online sex work industry. Headlines: Bishop injured in south west Sydney church stabbing Lehrmann could face rape trial after defamation loss Trump’s hush money trial begins Alice Springs curfew ends this morning Peggy and Molly reunited Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E174 · Mon, April 15, 2024
Court finds Bruce Lehrmann raped Brittany Higgins in Parliament House
Bruce Lehrmann has lost his defamation trial against Lisa Wilkinson and Channel Ten. The court today found that, on the balance of probabilities, Lehrmann did rape Brittany Higgins at Parliament House in 2019. The former Liberal Party staffer sued Channel Ten and Lisa Wilkinson over an interview in 2021, in which Brittany Higgins claimed she was raped by a colleague at Parliament House. Lehrmann, who denies the allegations, says while he wasn’t named, he could have been identified. Justice Michael Lee allowed the trial to be reopened last week to hear allegations the Seven Network paid for cocaine and sex workers for Lehrmann while trying to land an interview with him. In this episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by Nine Newspaper’s Chief Investigative journalist Kate McClymont who was in court today to hear Justice Lee’s findings. If you or anyone needs support following the details made public of this case, there are services available: 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 Lifeline: 13 11 14 Sexual Assault Counselling Australia: 1800 211 028 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E173 · Sun, April 14, 2024
Bondi Junction: a nation mourns
Australia stood still on Saturday afternoon when news reports started to feature reports of a stabbing at the Westfield shopping centre at Bondi Junction in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. We now know seven people died in the attacks – including the man responsible, 40-year-old Joel Cauchi from Queensland. In this extra episode of The Briefing, we discuss what we know so far, what Queensland Police know of Cauchi, and what his possible motivation was. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E172 · Sun, April 14, 2024
Sex work in 2024: Can your boss stop your sex work side hustle
Sex work is often referred to as the world’s oldest profession, and our attitudes to it are rapidly evolving. The language around it has changed, and public figures from politicians to influencers are being more open about it than ever. The shame and stigma around the profession seems weaker now than even a few years ago. So, what does sex work look like in Australia in 2024? In this four-part series, The Briefing dives deeper into the profession, where it’s been and where it’s going. In part three, we speak with Georgie Purcell, a former sex worker and now MP, to find out about the stigma and difficulties that still exist for those who work in the industry. Headlines: Flags at half-mast for Bondi Junction today Lehrmann findings to be delivered today Israel war cabinet authorised to respond to Iran air strikes Joe Biden and Donald Trump urged to participate in televised debate by US news networks Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E171 · Sat, April 13, 2024
Meet the 16-year-old news anchor Leo Puglisi behind 6NEWSAU
Leo Puglisi is the 16 year old anchor-man who isn’t afraid of tackling the big dogs. When Leo was 11 years old he founded 6NEWS Australia which lead him to interviewing Prime Ministers, Ministers and Opposition leaders, including his infamous interview with Scott Morrison. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Leo explains his pet hate of people saying he is controlled by his parents and what being woke looks like in schools. Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E170 · Fri, April 12, 2024
How Michael Shafar became the accidental Jewish rep of comedy
Is laughter the best medicine? Well comedian Michael Shafar might be able to help with that. He’s probably the only person who can make fun being Jewish, having cancer and his genitals in the same breath – and not only get away with it – but have the room in hysterics In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Michael explains why he isn’t afraid to tackle political topics in his shows and how he’s accidentally become the Jewish representative of comedy. WEEKEND LIST TRY- Don’t charge your phone in your bedroom WATCH - Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt TRY- BlendJet portable blender WATCH - Loot on Apple TV Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E169 · Fri, April 12, 2024
The textbook child star rebrand of JoJo Siwa
The rebranding of child stars as they transition into more mature identities is nothing new. After Britney Spears and Miley Cyrus, we're now seeing JoJo Siwa struggle as she does the same. Made famous from the reality TV series Dance Moms, she became known for a squeaky-clean aesthetic of bright colours, big hair bows and later, her pop hit 'Boomerang'. But now, she's wearing eccentric black outfits (complete with makeup) amid a much saucier vibe in her new release 'Karma'. So how did we get here, how is JoJo's rebrand different from the other former child stars that have come before her, and what can we expect for the future? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with one of our producers, Helen Smith, to unpack the challenging journey of child stars when they shift to a more mature identity in the public eye. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E168 · Thu, April 11, 2024
Why South Korean women are swearing off men
Have you heard of the 4B movement? It’s a feminist action that’s taking hold of South Korea. The movement follows the four B’s: no marriage, no sex with men, no child-rearing and no dating. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Su-Kyoung Hwang from the University of Sydney about why Korean women are swearing off men. Headlines: OJ Simpson dies at the age of 76 School holiday strike avoided as airport fire fighters secure deal Vietnamese real estate tycoon sentenced to death over $19 billion fraud Three men rescued from remote island after spelling ‘HELP’ with palm fronds Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E167 · Thu, April 11, 2024
Turns out we aren’t paying enough for our daily cup of coffee
Plenty of Australians have been cutting down on their daily coffee amid the cost-of-living crisis, but new research shows that cafe coffee in Australia is actually too cheap. In many cases rents, wages, specialty beans and milk are all getting more expensive, and that’s squeezing cafe owners. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Emma Felton from the University of South Australia to find out how much we should be paying for our daily cup of joe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E166 · Wed, April 10, 2024
Why QLD's new coercive control laws may not be enforced
QLD has introduced strict new coercive control laws. Coercive control has serious and traumatic impacts for a victim. It can be subtle and insidious, and individually targeted and tailored to a victim. Under new legislation announced in Queensland, the new standalone offence of coercive control will carry a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment. In today’s Briefing, Bension Siebert and LiSTNR journo Lizzie Vigar take a deep dive into Queensland’s new coercive control laws and why they may be very, very difficult to police. Headlines: Dutton on Palestinian statehood comments Joe Biden considering Australia’s request to drop charges against Julian Assange SA Police arrive in Alice Springs Molly the magpie to return home to best friend Peggy the dog Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E165 · Wed, April 10, 2024
How the end of MONA's Ladies Lounge could still be part of the art
Tasmania’s MONA has been forced to allow men into its women’s only Ladies Lounge. A NSW man who was upset when he was denied entry into the lounge, has taken the museum to the Tasmanian Civil Administrative Tribunal and won. This means MONA now has 28 days to stop refusing entry to men – or people who don’t identify as ladies. In this episode, one of our producers, Helen Smith, speaks with Jahan Kalantar, a Sydney-based solicitor, university lecturer and entrepreneur who calls himself the “little guy lawyer”, to ask if the decision could lead to women being allowed into men's clubs that have been off limits to women for decades. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E164 · Tue, April 09, 2024
The Youth Curfew in Alice Springs has been extended, so is it working?
A few weeks ago, chaos erupted in the heart of Alice Springs, with unrest that saw buildings trashed, the doors of the local tavern kicked in, and a car set on fire. The Northern Territory Chief Minister Eva Lawler called an 'emergency situation', which resulted in around 80 additional police officers being redeployed into Alice Springs, and a youth curfew coming into effect from 6am to 6 pm in the town centre. Yesterday, we found out that while no arrests had so far been made in relation to the youth curfew, the conditions would stay in place for almost another week while the town tries to transition away from the violence and into longer- term strategies. In this episode, we speak with 18-year-old Armani Francois, a local Indigenous social youth case worker, to find out exactly how people in Alice Springs are feeling right now. Headlines: Australian government flags recognising Palestinian two-state solution ASIO warns right-wing extremists want a race war in Australia 2000 Swiss women sue their government for failure to act on climate change MONA ordered to let men into women-only exhibit Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E163 · Tue, April 09, 2024
Is AUKUS about to become JAUKUS?
The federal government this morning announced that the AUKUS defence agreement partners (Australia, the United States and the UK) are considering expanding the group to include Japan. China has already issued a statement to say it is “gravely concerned” with news AUKUS is considering expanding. So what does it mean for the Asia/Pacific region, and more specifically Australia? In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by David Andrews, senior policy advisor at the ANU National Security College, to find out why Japan is seeking to join AUKUS and what it will prompt from China on the world stage. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E162 · Mon, April 08, 2024
Why the new flu jab is a game changer
A new flu vaccine has arrived in Australia and it’s not like traditional vaccines – it's cell-based. Cell-based flu vaccines are developed differently from the traditional egg-based vaccines – and they offer advantages in production, scale and better matching viruses in our vaccines to those actually circulating in the community. In this episode of the Briefing, immunologist Dr Julianne Bayliss explains why the new vaccine is a game-changer for Australians and why you need to get the new flu jab. Headlines: Date set for Rafah invasion: Netanyahu Donald Trump stops short of calling for a national abortion ban New poll finds more Aussies would back radical housing policies Total solar eclipse observed across North America Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E161 · Mon, April 08, 2024
Rhys Nicholson on RuPaul’s Drag Race & why redheads have more fun
Hey Briefers. An apology: this interview was scheduled to be released on Saturday morning, but due to a technical glitch it didn't, so it's appearing in your feed today instead. Sincere apologies to our wonderful host Antoinette and to her fabulous guest Rhys Nicholson - we hope you enjoy catching up. Rhys Nicholson is a judge on RuPaul’s Drag race, a much-loved comedian and believes they have a very muggable face. They have a successful career in comedy, presenting and the arts, but Rhys lives with chronic anxiety. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Rhys breaks down the number of times they’ve been mugged and why redheads have more fun. WEEKEND LIST WATCH - Gilmore Girls READ - Down the drain by Julia Fox DO - YouTube workouts by Sydney Cummings Houdyshell LISTEN - Sounds Like a Cult Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E160 · Mon, April 08, 2024
Sex work in 2024: How the internet has changed the industry
Sex work is often referred to as the world’s oldest profession, and our attitudes to it are rapidly evolving. The language around it has changed, and public figures from politicians to influencers are being more open than ever. The shame and stigma around the profession seem weaker now than even a few years ago. So, what does sex work look like in Australia in 2024? In this four-part series, The Briefing dives deeper into the profession, where it’s been and where it’s going. In part two, we speak with a former sex worker and now-brothel owner about how the internet has revolutionised the industry. To hear part one about the history and regulations of sex work in Australia, click here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E159 · Sun, April 07, 2024
Sex work in 2024: how did we get here?
Sex work is often referred to as the world's oldest profession and our attitudes to it are rapidly evolving. The language around it has changed, and public figures from politicians to influencers are being more open about it than ever. The shame and stigma around the profession seems weaker now than even a few years ago. So, what does sex work look like in Australia in 2024? In this four-part series, The Briefing dives deeper into the profession, where it's been and where it's going. In part one, we're looking back and asking: how did we get here? Headlines: Interim report into supermarkets recommends massive fines Israeli troops withdraw from southern Gaza PM defends his border security record as missing asylum seeker found NSW pill testing pilot starts today Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E158 · Sat, April 06, 2024
How YouTubers Boy Boy snuck into a CIA base without getting arrested
Imagine going to North Korea to get a haircut or breaking into a military base, well YouTubers Alex Apollonov and Aleksa Vulovic did just that. The guys are behind the YouTube channel Boy Boy, with content that clocks up millions of views and boasts almost a million subscribers. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Alex and Aleksa explain what it’s like working with Friendlyjordies and their close calls with the police. Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E157 · Fri, April 05, 2024
The Quiet on Set documentary is about to ruin your childhood nostalgia
A new documentary exposing the dark underbelly of kid’s television in the nineties and early 2000s is dropping in Australia today. Quiet on Set details shocking accusations of what it was like for child stars working on some of the biggest television shows when many of us were growing up. In particular, it presents harsh allegations against one of Nickelodeon’s most prized producers and screenwriters – Dan Schneider. LiSTNR’s Justin Hill, entertainment reporter and host of The Streaming Service joins The Briefing’ s Sacha Barbour-Gatt, to take us through the revelations in the documentary, and why it’s already received so much attention worldwide. This episode discussed child sexual abuse and mental health. If you are struggling, or need help, call Lifeline now on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E156 · Thu, April 04, 2024
Could Australia become a dumping ground for nuclear waste?
Australia could be taking on nuclear waste from the AUKUS submarine deal after new laws tabled in Parliament last year. The legislation says it would allow for the creation of facilities for "managing, storing or disposing of radioactive waste from an AUKUS submarine". It's led to the resurfacing of talk about nuclear waste; asking if we'd be taking on waste from the UK and US, and in terms of our own, where would it go? In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is speaking with Tony Irwin about what these laws mean. Headlines: Taylor Auerbach cross examination to continue after bombshell claims in court Calls grow for independent inquiry into killing of aid workers in Gaza Wild weather to lash NSW and Queensland Study warns all people in Japan could have the same last name in 500 years Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E155 · Thu, April 04, 2024
The long road for those suffering with long covid
It's been over four years since COVID-19 first shook the world. And though vaccines have allowed many of us to move on with our lives, a large number of people are not recovering from the virus. In fact, scientists believe at least 65 million people worldwide have, or have had, long covid. A recent study from WA found about 20 per cent of people infected during one of the state’s COVID waves still had fatigue, memory loss and trouble with concentration, three months after they first became sick. On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Dr Margaret Van Heekeren, a university lecturer and mother of two, whose life has been turned upside down after she contracted long covid. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E154 · Wed, April 03, 2024
What is the National Autism Strategy and why does Australia need one?
Earlier this week the Federal Government released a draft of the National Autism Strategy, in the hopes to improve the lives of autistic Australians. The development of the strategy was first announced back in 2022 and covers key reform areas including access to services, healthcare, education, and employment. Will it change the lives of people with autism? In this episode of The Briefing, we're joined by Professor Cheryl Dissanayake, a leading autism researcher at La Trobe University to find out what the strategy means for people with autism in Australia. Headlines: Former heads of World Central Kitchen question strike that killed aid workers Rescue efforts continue in Taiwan after earthquake Brittany Higgins and Linda Reynolds mediation talks collapse Magpie and staffy besties a step closer to being reunited Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E153 · Wed, April 03, 2024
Could aid relief in Gaza halt after the death of innocent aid workers?
Seven aid workers for the World Central Kitchen, including Australian Zomi Frankcom, are confirmed to have been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. Since news of the attack broke, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has spoken with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, conveying the country’s outrage over the death. The Israeli government says it will investigate how the deaths occurred. One of Australia's leading voices on humanitarian aid and the former head of World Vision Australia, Reverend Tim Costello, says he is devastated by the news, and that he hopes this will be a turning point in the conflict. But will already limited aid in the conflict come to a halt after this death? He joins The Briefing's Bension Siebert to discuss. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E152 · Tue, April 02, 2024
What the Armaguard crisis tells us about the future of cash
Armaguard, the cash delivery business, is going broke. No one uses cash anymore so the nation's number one cash-in-transit business is losing money. What does the collapse of Armaguard mean for Australia's cash flow? Most consumers use tap-and-go to pay for goods and services, and it means businesses like big supermarket chains simply don't have cash reserves like they used to. In this episode of The Briefing, we investigate what the Armaguard crisis tells us about the future of cash, what Australia would look like if we go cash-less and what is the future of cash in Australia? Headlines: Albanese demands meeting with Netanyahu over aid killings in Gaza Channel Ten wins bid to reopen Bruce Lehrmann defamation trial NASA investigating after chunk of metal from ISS rips through Florida home Taylor Swift is listed on the billionaire rich list for the first time Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E151 · Tue, April 02, 2024
Behind the first successful pig-to-human kidney transplant
Late last month, Richard Slayman became the first person in history to successfully undergo an organ transplantation of a genetically modified pig kidney. While human-to-animal transplant, or xenotransplantation, isn't new (heart valves from horses, cows and pigs having been used for over 30 years), cases of entire organ transplants are incredibly complex, while raising a host of other ethical and health concerns. So how significant is the recent pig kidney transplant, where are we at with this science, and could this one day be our go-to solution for those in desperate need of an organ transplant? To explain the science of xenotransplantation, Bension Siebert is joined by Wayne Hawthorne, professor of transplantation at the University of Sydney. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E150 · Mon, April 01, 2024
Is this the end of Reddit as we know it?
Reddit has gone public, making its debut on the New York stock exchange. Its value made it over $9b. Reddit is one of the world’s most popular websites, with 73 million unique active visitors a day—and can engage in over 100,000 forums. Going public could majorly change the platform though, with everything from ads through to how Reddit forums are moderated likely to be put under the microscope. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with James Hennessy to find out what this IPO means for the future of the website. Headlines: Australia could become a dumping ground for nuclear waste under AUKUS deal IDF ends 14-day Al Shifa Hospital siege in Gaza amid protests in Israel against Netanyahu New evidence could be heard in Lehrmann defamation case Round up of the best April Fool's pranks Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E149 · Mon, April 01, 2024
How Black artists like Beyoncé are reclaiming country music
Though Beyoncé has claimed that Cowboy Carter is a 'Beyoncé album', rather than 'a country album', it's a release that definitely dips into the genre. And country music has a complex relationship with Black musicians - a few years back, Lil Nas X faced a heavy backlash from Old Town Road, which was scrapped from Billboard's country chart, triggering criticism that the reason was in part racially motivated. Yet over the last few years, country has seen a massive boom in its widespread popularity, with many large-name artists delving into the sound. So what can we expect next, and why is it significant that Black artists are making music in the space? In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with LiSTNR journalist Loren Howarth to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E148 · Sun, March 31, 2024
Inbox Zero or Inbox 7,568? How you should manage your emails
Do you have thousands of emails in your inbox, or are you an Inbox Zero type of person? A new study is looking at personal email management, and has found only half of people are happy with how they deal with their inbox. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt talks to Matt Balogh from the University of New England about what we should be doing with our emails. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E147 · Fri, March 29, 2024
Why Tom Ballard is so angry at politicians
Tom Ballard is possibly the most political comedian in Australia, with his stand up tackling issues including asylum seekers, racism, the monarchy and capitalism. His new show, Good Point Well Made, is no different. He reflects on Australia's failed voice referendum and Donald Trump- alongside a healthy dose of toilet humour. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Ballard opens up about the process of writing the show, why he loves performing, and the rise of fellow comedian and friend Hannah Gadsby. Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E146 · Fri, March 29, 2024
Radio Queen Emma Chow on balancing Mike E, the mic & motherhood
Emma Chow is one half of the 14-years strong radio duo Mike E & Emma- broadcasting live every weekday nationally for their breakfast show. Emma has achieved radio queen status with her radio husband but admits that there have TMI moments throughout her career. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Emma reminisces about having one of the most unique gender reveals on air- and then copping slack for returning to work weeks after giving birth. You can hear Emma on Mike E & Emma live 6-9am Nationally on RnB Fridays Radio as well as 9am-11am on 2DayFM in Sydney! WEEKEND LIST Challengers movie Beyond Utopia documentary McoBeauty eyebrow gel House of Gods on ABC iview Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E145 · Fri, March 29, 2024
It’s only March – why am I already exhausted?
Everyone’s hustling, everyone’s struggling with cost of living pressures, rents are rising, interest rates are rising. We’re exhausted, and it’s only March. We’re constantly told to look after our mental health and to support those around us who need love and care – family and friends. But how can we, when we’re at the point of burnout almost every day. In this special episode of The Briefing brought to you by Medibank, our hosts Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert talk about why they’re feeling burnt out and what they do about it. You’ll also hear some awesome stories about ordinary people doing extraordinary things and practical ways to improve your overall wellbeing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E144 · Thu, March 28, 2024
How chocolate has helped bring bilbies back from the brink
Once upon a time bilbies lived all over Australia; where there was desert, there was a bilby. After the introduction of cats and foxes, the bilby’s numbers plummeted, in the 80s they were only found in a couple of tiny patches in the wild. Now their numbers are up and growing, and partly that’s thanks to the idea of the easter bilby. Chocolate bilbies appeared in shops in the 90s as an environmental alternative to the easter bunny, the idea has raised awareness and funds. In this episode of The Briefing we find out how bilbies have come back from the brink. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E143 · Thu, March 28, 2024
The truth about how ticketing for concerts works in Australia
Right now, Moshtix is in the process of refunding all of the tickets for the Splendour in the Grass festival, after the unexpected news that the event had been cancelled. Though we've seen many festivals across the country postpone or cancel their events, we've also lately seen several big concerts, with a massive demand for tickets. Often, it feels like no matter how quick you are to get onto the website, whether you actually get a ticket seems pretty random. But is it? What is actually happening in the background when we log in? Who decides who gets a ticket and why and they so goddamn expensive? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with LiSTNR journalist Tessa Randello, to find out why we need to look closer at Australia’s ticketing industry. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E142 · Wed, March 27, 2024
Why Splendour is the latest in a long line of cancelled Aussie music festivals
Splendour in the Grass will not go ahead this year, and we are yet to learn the official reason. This isn’t the first time the event has been hit with difficulties. In 2022 the first day of Splendour was cancelled due to flooding, and last year saw the event far from selling out, with ticket sales down 30%. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert spoke with Swinburne’s Event Management and Public Relations expert, Associate Professor Robert Gill to find out what his take was, and what the future could hold for Australia’s large music festival industry. Headlines: Entire countries could be blacklisted under Labor’s deportation bill Cargo ship’s black box recovered in Baltimore disaster A billion meals go to waste everyday as people go hungry Thailand to legalise same sex marriage Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E141 · Wed, March 27, 2024
An Australian engineer explains the Baltimore bridge disaster
About 1:30AM local time, the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the US city of Baltimore collapsed after being struck by a container ship. The loaded ship reportedly suffered a power issue just prior to the incident, alerting a mayday just in time to stop traffic from crossing the bridge. Tragically, eight roadworkers were still working on the bridge at the time of the collapse. Two were rescued, one body has been recovered, while searches for the remaining have been suspended until morning. Authorities have said they are presumed dead. On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with the Chair of the Insititute of Structural Engineers, Colin Caprani, about why the bridge collapsed, and whether the same could happen here in Australia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E140 · Tue, March 26, 2024
Who is Kristi Noam, Trump's likely running mate
Donald Trump and Joe Biden have now secured their respective parties’ presidential nomination for the November US presidential election. Biden will partner with Vice President Kamala Harris for the second election in succession. But who will be Donald Trump’s running mate? Most pundits are pointing to South Dakota governor Kristi Noam. So who is she? And why is Donald Trump keeping his cards so close to his chest before naming his running mate? Headlines: Julian Assange granted legal lifeline Search underway in icy conditions after Baltimore bridge collapse Australia could move to holding federal elections every four years The iconic floating door from Titanic film sells at auction Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E139 · Tue, March 26, 2024
Computer chips inside your brain are now possible. Here's how it works
Noland Arbaugh was paralysed from the shoulders down after a diving accident eight years ago. But now, thanks to a brain computer interface chip, he's able to play video games like Mario Kart or virtual chess simply by concentrating his mind on the screen. The chip, which is the size of a coin, was surgically implanted back in January by Elon Musk's company, Neuralink. While the company have said there are still a few problems to work through, it is incredible technology that promises to give people with severe disabilities a much better quality of life. So how does this technology work, and is it as incredible as it appears? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by neural engineering expert, Associate Professor Sam John to explain how this works, the ethical dilemmas and how common it could be in the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E138 · Mon, March 25, 2024
What is ISIS-K and why has it targeted Russia?
Russia has suffered its deadliest terror attack in 20 years, after 133 people were killed and 100 were injured when gunmen opened fire at a theatre in Moscow. Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, fresh from his election win has blamed Ukraine for the attack despite a terrorist group called ISIS-K claiming responsibility. In this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert speaks to terrorism expert Greg Barton from Deakin university about what’s going on. Headlines: UN has called for a ceasefire in Gaza for the first time Trump’s fraud bond reduced Boeing CEO steps down Rebel Wilson names Sacha Baron Cohen "massive arsehole" Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E137 · Mon, March 25, 2024
This is why Tasmania's election was important
The results from Tasmania's election, which took place over the weekend, are mostly in. While Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff called the election a year early in the hopes of forming a stable majority government, he hasn't been able to secure the outcome he was hoping for. It's expected that the Liberals will hold 13-15 seats, which is more than Labor... But short of the 18 required to form a majority government. So what will this mean for Tasmania's future, and the controversial policies that have divided the island? And could this be a preview of how our next federal election could unfold? To explain what's happened, and what it means, Bension Siebert is joined by LiSTNR journalist, Tessa Randello. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E136 · Sun, March 24, 2024
Why are we making weapons for the US?
Did you know Australia has been recruited by America to produce some of its weapons? The wars in Ukraine and Gaza have stretched US capabilities to make things like artillery shells and missiles, so it’s taking advantage of our munitions factories that have room to grow. On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Charles Edel from the Center for Strategic and International Studies about where the weapons being made in Australia are ending up and the geopolitical impacts of buying and selling devices made to kill people. Headlines: Day of mourning declared in Russia after terror attack Labor concedes defeat in Tasmanian election Royal spokesperson urges public to give Kate and William space Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E135 · Sat, March 23, 2024
Dr Zac Seidler on toxic masculinity and dealing with grief
Dr Zac Seidler is a clinical psychologist, researcher and leading men’s mental health expert. With seven men across Australia dying by suicide every day- globally, an average of one man every minute- it’s his mission to create a dialogue with men, not about them, in the mental health space. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Zac opens up about how his father’s suicide shaped his career, explains why we should ditch the label “toxic masculinity”- and why men need more friends. If you are in need of help, call LIFELINE now on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E134 · Fri, March 22, 2024
Reuben Kaye on why trauma makes you funny
Reuben Kaye is what happens when you tell your children they can be anything. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Reuben recalls the moment he discovered he was funny, opens up about finding humour in dark places- and explains why he stands by that controversial joke about Jesus he told on The Project last year. You can catch Reuben’s show Apocalipstik and his signature huge eyelashes at the Melbourne Comedy festival from next weekend, before he heads to Canberra, Sydney and Brisbane. WEEKEND LIST Late Night with the Devil One Day on Netflix 1Q84 The Imperfects Podcast- Social Anxiety See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E133 · Fri, March 22, 2024
Why politicians are always trying to build new stadiums
Why are politicians so desperate for the sport vote? As Tasmania head into an election this weekend, one of the major talking points surrounds whether they really should be about to build a new AFL stadium. And this isn't the first time we've seen governments wrestle with the politics of stadia, with other states and territories similarly finding themselves similarly under fire over proposals and upgrades. So why are politicians so desperate to spend so much money on stadiums, that will only ever be used by a very small percentage of voters? Or should all states and territories have these facilities? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Dr Hunter Fujak, a lecturer in Sport Management at Deakin University to find out more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E132 · Thu, March 21, 2024
Why Leonardo DiCaprio wants Tasmanians to vote Green
Tasmania goes to the polls this weekend, and one of the major issues people will be voting on is whether to log or not to log the state’s forests. The coalition, who have been in power for a decade say they will ramp up the logging of Tasmania's native forests, Labor has said they will extend logging contracts to 2040, while the Greens are the only party wanting to get rid of native logging altogether. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt talks about what’s at stake this weekend with Bob Brown, and what does Leonardo DiCaprio have to do with it? Headlines: US files landmark lawsuit against Apple Jobs surge puts doubt on rate cut Man plays chess with his mind thanks to brain chip Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E131 · Thu, March 21, 2024
Is Boeing an airplane manufacturer in crisis?
There's been a lot of attention on Boeing recently, after a spate of inflight incidents. In January, a Boeing 737 Max on a flight from Portland to Ontario in California had its emergency door plug blow off mid-flight, while in February, pilots reported a Boeing 737 Max having jammed flight controls as the plane landed in New Jersey. And just last week, the LATAM 787 Boeing Dreamliner, flying from Sydney to New Zealand plunged midflight, injuring 50 people. After so many well-publicised safety incidents, should we still trust a Boeing plane? Or is this an overblown crisis in an industry otherwise renowned for its extremely high safety standards? One of our producers, Simon Beaton, spoke with the Head of Aviation at Central Queensland University, Professor Doug Drury, to find out what's going on. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E130 · Wed, March 20, 2024
Harmony Day's racist roots
Today is Harmony Day when Australia celebrates its multiculturism and diversity, but did you know we’re the only country who does? It’s because Australia has a difficult relationship with what the day is actually for internationally, which is the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt delves into Australia’s murky past with Listnr investigative journalist Claudianna Blanco to find out why this is such a controversial day. Headlines: Kevin Rudd to remain as US ambassador after Trump comments Celebrities looking to include Rupert Murdoch in lawsuit against his papers Affordable housing now out of reach in all Australian eastern capitals Australia ranks 10 in the world for happiness Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E129 · Wed, March 20, 2024
Monique Ryan wants you to pay less on your HECS debt
Last year, over half a million Australians saw their HECS debt grow faster than it was being repaid. Teal Independent MP Dr Monique Ryan says it’s because Australia has an unfair HECS indexation system. In fact, the government got more money last year from HECS debts than it did from its main fossil fuel tax. Dr Ryan has begun a petition calling on Education Minister Jason Clare to change the way HECS debts are indexed. In this episode of The Briefing, we hear from Dr Ryan as we investigate why it feels like you’ll never pay off your HECS debt. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E128 · Tue, March 19, 2024
Why are families with twins, triplets and quadruplets overlooked in Australia?
Last year, a report found that Australia offers the least amount of parental leave support to parents of multiples in the OECD. In fact, extra payments to families with multiples only account 7% of the differential costs. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with mother of triplets, Silje Andersen-Cooke who is also the director of the Australian Multiple Birth Association to find out what has happened in the year since the report was released, and why families with multiples are so overlooked in Australia. Headlines: 2023 breaks every single climate indicator White House slams Trump’s comments on Jewish voters RBA keeps rates steady Another Kate Middleton photo under scrutiny Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E127 · Tue, March 19, 2024
Who is Banksy? After decades of anonymity, we might be about to find out
Banksy is the artist behind the most famous, subversive and satirical street art on the planet. Yet despite their notoriety over the last two decades, Banksy has impressively managed to maintain their anonymity. But that could all change, due to a current court case between two art collectors and Banksy's authentication company, which could see the artist forced to reveal their identity. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with LiSTNR Investigations Editor, Clair Weaver about the current theories on who the artist could be, and the potential ramifications of Banksy losing their anonymity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E126 · Mon, March 18, 2024
If the US bans TikTok, will Australia follow suit?
The US is moving to ban TikTok after a bill passed through its House of Representatives last week. It’s given TikTok's Chinese owner ByteDance about six months to divest before 150 million users face not being able to access the platform. In this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert speaks with Crikey’s Cam Wilson about the ban, what it says about data ownership and what the implications could be for us here in Australia. Headlines: Greens to introduce bill that would break up Coles and Woolies Putin addresses crowds at Red Square after landslide election ‘win’ Qantas workers tell hearing they suffered depression after being illegally sacked Intimacy ban lifted for the Paris Games Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E125 · Mon, March 18, 2024
Behind Putin's rigged, but significant, Russian election
Vladimir Putin has been re-elected as Russia’s president for the fifth time over the weekend. Before the polls even opened all serious challengers had been wiped out, with Putin’s only real opposition, Alexei Navalny dying in mysterious circumstances weeks before. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Politico’s Zoya Sheftalovich to find out why Russia holds elections when the outcome has already been decided, and how Putin came to power in the first place. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E124 · Sun, March 17, 2024
Why won’t Egypt let Palestinians cross the border?
The war between Israel and Hamas has been raging for five months, more than 30,000 people have been killed, and it’s spawned a massive refugee crisis. Currently 1.4 million Palestinians who have fled to the southern city of Rafah on the border with Egypt are hemmed in. So are any of Palestine’s neighbouring countries willing to accept them? And if not, why not? In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Anas Iqtait from the Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies at ANU about Arab countries’ role in the crisis. Headlines: Some visas reinstated for Palestinians heading to Australia Russians around the world protest election TikTok ban talks ignite in Australia Space X is building a spy satellite network for the US Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E123 · Sat, March 16, 2024
Patrick deWitt on creativity and age
Patrick deWitt is an award winning author, and screenwriter. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Patrick talks about his latest novel The Librarianist, and why he hopes it provides readers with an escape from the “ugly” world we live in. Patrick also reflects on his decision to leave high school to pursue his dream of becoming a writer, and explains his take on why literature and art should focus less on young people. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E122 · Fri, March 15, 2024
Veronica B on comedy and Crohn's disease
Sydney-based content creator Veronica B is many things, but she’s perhaps best known for her hilarious comedy skits where she plays Aunty Salma, a character she says represents “every ethnic mum”. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Veronica takes us back to the moment she invented Aunty Salma, opens up about her decade-long journey in content creation before having her breakout moment on TikTok during the pandemic- and tells us why she wishes she could be a sellout. She also chats about using humor to cope with chronic illness- having grown up with colitis and Crohn’s disease. WEEKEND LIST Broadsheet’s episode with Hannah Gadsby Aldi Prosecco Running clubs Antoinette’s episode of Abbie Chatfield’s It’s A Lot podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E121 · Fri, March 15, 2024
How Salad Fingers pioneered the weird part of the internet
The first ever academic study has finally been written about Salad Fingers, a video series created in 2004 that later went viral on YouTube. Salad Fingers featured a sickly green figure with lettuce leaves for hands who liked to stroke rusty spoons. The study argues Salad Fingers was a trailblazer of “weird youtube” and is still influencing internet culture today. In this episode of The Briefing, Eleanor Harrison-Dengate speaks with Jessica Balanzategui, a Senior Lecturer in Media at RMIT University, about why she thinks the series has been so influential. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E120 · Thu, March 14, 2024
The deepfake voice scam that you need to be prepared for
There’s a new phone-scam that’s being reported around the world, and it’s petrifying. It uses an AI generated cloned version of a loved one, who calls, claiming that there’s an emergency (often that they’ve been kidnapped and a ransom needs to be paid). They’re emotive, they’re high-quality replications, and they’re expected to hit Australians soon. So how does the scam work, and what do you need to know to ensure that you or your loved ones don’t fall victim to it? In today’s episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Toby Murray, Associate Professor of Computing and Information Systems at the University of Melbourne to find out more. Headlines: Federal government under fire for pulling Palestinian Visas Australian women died in Bali landslide EV purchases soar in Australia Space X mega rocket reaches new heights, before ending up lost Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E119 · Thu, March 14, 2024
What's behind the chaos in Haiti?
Haiti has been all over international headlines this week, and it’s culminated in the Caribbean country’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry being forced to step down. His resignation follows weeks of mounting pressure and increasing violence. Henry is currently stranded in Puerto Rico after being prevented by armed gangs from returning home. Now the Caribbean country is looking towards creating a transitional government for the foreseeable future. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert sits down with Australian National University's Professor Nicolas Lemay-Hebert to find out why Haiti is in such strife, and what will happen next. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E118 · Wed, March 13, 2024
Cheek Media shares its game plan in Meta's media war
Facebook and Instagram could soon be wiped of news content. It’s after their parent company Meta, announced it will stop paying for news content in Australia when the current deals it has expire. In the future, Meta will encourage news publishers to buy extra services to increase their own traffic, flipping the flow of funds from Meta to news publishers, rather than the other way around. The move brings into question the issue of the sustainability of news journalism in Australia. The Albanese government has said it will move to force Meta to negotiate. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Cheek Media’s Hannah Ferguson, whose platform grew through Instagram, to talk about how she plans to deal with the change, and what she thinks the impact will be on news in Australia. Headlines: The US is one step closer to banning TikTok Two-thirds of women report bias in Australian healthcare Hot autumn ahead for Australia Clive Palmer unveils plans, again, to build the Titanic II Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E117 · Wed, March 13, 2024
Should the world’s first female hijacker be allowed into Australia?
In 1969, Leila Khaled became the world's first female aeroplane hijacker when she took control of a flight from Rome to Tel Aviv. Now, at almost 80, she remains on the national committee for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, and is set to appear as a speaker at Green Left’s Ecosocialism 2024 conference in WA in June. But with her past history and her more recent activism, would she be allowed entry into Australia? Or would her name be added to the long list of other controversial figures - like Novak Djokovic, Chelsea Manning, Chris Brown, who have been banned from entering the country? In today’s episode, Bension Siebert speaks with LiSTNR Investigations Editor, Clair Weaver, about how visa decisions on controversial figures are decided. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E116 · Tue, March 12, 2024
Real Estate Royal Commission - The Policymaker
Australia’s housing market has been in crisis for years and it only seems to be getting worse. Interest rate hikes last year have pushed many families’ budgets to the brink while renters are finding more and more of their pay cheque disappearing each month. All sides of politics have their own ideas to tackle rising rents, supply issues and soaring house prices, from assisting first home buyers to increasing the number of new builds. So is it time for a royal commission into the real estate industry and would that make a meaningful dent in fixing the housing crisis? In the final episode of this three-part series, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Greens MP Max Chandler-Mather to find out. Headlines: Illicit drug use in Australia soars by 17% year-on-year Andrew Tate to be extradited to the UK Gaza medics tell BBC of inhumane treatment 1 in 4 properties in NSW, Victoria and QLD were paid for in cash Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E115 · Tue, March 12, 2024
Why we need to cut through Australia's Tall Poppy Syndrome
Australia’s love of an underdog is really special and unique – we're always cheering on the Aussie battler. It goes hand in hand with our belief that everyone deserves a fair go, but we’re also pretty renowned for being the first to cut down someone who might stand out. It’s called Tall Poppy Syndrome and has become synonymous with Australian culture. But why? And is it time to rethink our approach to success and standing out? On today’s episode, The Briefing host Sacha Barbour-Gatt talks to Dr Rumeet Billan, the author of 2023 study ‘The Tallest Poppy’, to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E114 · Mon, March 11, 2024
Real Estate Royal Commission - The Renter
Australia’s housing market has been in crisis for years and it only seems to be getting worse. Interest rate hikes last year have pushed many families’ budgets to the brink while renters are finding more and more of their pay cheque disappearing each month. All sides of politics have their own ideas to tackle rising rents, supply issues and soaring house prices, from assisting first home buyers to increasing the number of new builds. So is it time for a royal commission into the real estate industry and would that make a meaningful dent in fixing the housing crisis? In the second episode of this three part series, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Jordie Van Den Berg a.k.a. Purple Pingers, to find out. Headlines: Princess of Wales apologises for editing family photo Ramadan starts in Gaza without a ceasefire deal Roosters prop Spencer Leniu cops eight week ban over racial slur Oppenheimer sweeps the Oscars Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E113 · Mon, March 11, 2024
A Royal photo has shown our unhealthy relationship with conspiracies
The first official photo of the Princess of Wales since her abdominal surgery has been released. It shows Kate smiling while surrounded by her three children, alongside a message from the royal thanking well-wishers for their support. Within hours of its release, several global news agencies announced they were pulling the image because it had been doctored. To what extent, we’re not sure, but if the recent conspiracy theories about Kate’s wellbeing are anything to go by, this latest development will only add to the wild rumours being thrown around. But why are people so ready to engage in conspiracies? How has that changed over the years? And just how significant is this move by agencies like Reuters, AP and Getty? On today’s afternoon episode of The Briefing, we discuss these issues with Axel Bruns, a Professor for the Digital Media Research Centre at Queensland University of Technology. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E112 · Sun, March 10, 2024
Real Estate Royal Commission - The Agent
The housing crisis in Australia is well documented and much debated. All sides of politics have their own ideas to tackle rising rents, supply issues and soaring house prices, from assisting first home buyers to increasing the number of new builds. But on the ground the feeling is that it’s all just kicking the can down the road, and a lot of the solutions fail to address the sometimes dodgy and underhanded tactics used by our country’s real estate agencies. So is it time for a royal commission into the real estate industry and would that make a meaningful dent in fixing the housing crisis? In the first episode of this three part series, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks to Rob Westwood, National Chairman of First National Real Estate to get his take on the housing crisis. Headlines: US military ship departs for Gaza port-building mission Suspected drug overdose death at Victorian music festival First image released of Princess Kate since surgery Oscars hit by plagiarism scandal hours before the event Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E111 · Sat, March 09, 2024
Wendell Sailor on racism in footy
Wendell Sailor represented Australia in both rugby league and rugby union at the highest level in the 90s and 2000s. Now, he spends his afternoons on the airwaves with Triple M’s Sydney drive show The Rush Hour with Gus Worland and Jude Bolton . In this chat with Tom Tilley, Wendell weighs in on the latest racism scandal in the NRL, and opens up about his own experiences with racism growing up. He also reveals what it was like finding out he’d been adopted, and explores why a two-year ban for cocaine use in 2006 was the making of him. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E110 · Fri, March 08, 2024
Life after reality TV with Clare Verrall
Clare Verrall was a contestant on season two of Married At First Sight - and by her description, she was “hurled into the lion’s den”. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, she shares how her experience impacted her mental health, and why she wants others to think twice before applying for reality television shows. The pair also explore her journey being diagnosed with ADHD and autism as an adult, her massive love for fostering dogs, and the Taylor Swift tattoo typo she’ll never forget. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E109 · Fri, March 08, 2024
Alabama's debate on IVF - is a frozen embryo an unborn child?
Alabama has been in a state of turmoil after a legal case had unexpected consequences by implying that frozen embryos could be interpreted as having the same rights as children. After the judgment, several IVF clinics around the state suspended services due to the fear of legal ramifications, leaving prospective parents undergoing procedures in the dark. On Thursday, legislation was passed to protect IVF providers, but has this opened the door to further debate over reproductive rights in the US? And how much of this conversation is linked to religious or political views? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with John Sharp, a local news reporter based in Alabama. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E108 · Thu, March 07, 2024
This IWD, is Australia doing all it can on reproductive rights?
We’ve seen two major decisions affect the reproductive rights of women in the lead up to International Women’s Day: the decision of the Alabama Supreme Court to declare embryos created through IVF as children, and France’s move to enshrine abortion rights in the constitution. They present the opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to the issue of women’s health, so where does Australia stand? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with the Chair of the Australian Women's Health Alliance, Bonney Corbin, to dive deeper into the reproductive rights of women in Australia. You'll hear what we’ve achieved, and what work is still needed to ensure the health, safety and respect of women’s bodies and choices. Headlines: Police allege Samantha Murphy was murdered in “deliberate act” Hamas delegates leave Cairo without a ceasefire deal AFL pays tribute to Luke Davies and Jesse Baird at season opener Debate sparked by Sam Kerr revelation Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E107 · Thu, March 07, 2024
Mark Butler explains why the government is cracking down on vapes
The importation of all non-therapeutic vapes is now illegal in Australia. This means anyone wanting to import a vape into the country needs a licence to do so, and anyone wanting to buy a vape will need a prescription from their doctor. With vaping rates continuing to soar across the country, will this next step in the government's crackdown on vaping make a noticeable difference? And will the latest legislative changes push those who can't access a vape onto smoking cigarettes instead? Federal Health Minister Mark Butler joins Bension Siebert to explain why he's so focused on trying to get young people off the vapes in 2024, and why he "shares the fear" about those vaping switching back to smoking instead. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E106 · Wed, March 06, 2024
This farmer has beef with PFAS - and that's a serious problem
PFAS are known as forever chemicals, and they're really bad for the environment - they never break down, and can spread into waterways, land, animals...and us. Research has also shown that they can be really bad for us, with high exposure also been linked to a various range of health conditions, and a higher risk of some cancers. Larry Acton has been farming cattle for over 50 years, but when he bought his property in 2021, he had no idea it was contaminated with PFAS. He's now seriously worried about his cattle drinking the groundwater, and whether that could make it into the meat, and eventually into consumers. Speaking to The Briefing, the long time cattle farmer shares his concerns, and what he thinks needs to be done about it. Headlines: Nikki Haley drops out of run for Republican presidential nomination ASEAN ends with watered down warning to China Sam Kerr’s alleged slur revealed Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E105 · Wed, March 06, 2024
Why today was always going to be Donald Trump's Super Tuesday
It's Super Tuesday in the US presidential election, but the biggest day in America's primary season won't be like any other we've seen in recent history. In today's episode, Bension Siebert sits down with Planet America's Chas Licciardello to explain what Super Tuesday is, why Donald Trump looks set to wipe the floor with his closest rival, and why Americans are stuck with two unpopular old men running for President. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E104 · Tue, March 05, 2024
Meet the Aussies going to Rome for the World Cup of gay rugby
Did you know there is a World Cup of Gay Rugby? Technically called The Bingham Cup, it's an international tournament for gay and inclusive rugby teams from around the world - and the next one will be in Rome this coming May. The Cup has been around for 20 years, and Australian teams are some of the most successful. The Sydney Convicts have won the competition five times! In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Ken Averre, Sydney Convicts club president to find out all about this year’s Bingham Cup. Headlines: Football Australia blindsided by Sam Kerr charge Anthony Albanese referred to the ICC as an 'accessory to genocide in Gaza' Super Tuesday gets underway in the US Queensland unions push for 10 days of reproductive health leave Jeff Bezos reclaims world’s richest person title Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E103 · Tue, March 05, 2024
How screens rob kids' brains of words
Are you concerned by seeing young children glued to iPads or screens out in public? Or are you a parent of one of those children, wondering how much screen time is actually okay for your child's brain? A new study of Australian families has found that the average toddler is missing out on more than 1000 words spoken by an adult each day because they or their parents are watching screens. Senior research officer at the Telethon Kids Institute, Dr Mary Brushe led the research, and on this episode of The Briefing speaks with Bension Siebert to explain what they found. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E102 · Mon, March 04, 2024
Where you can find the fees for every GP in Australia
For many, going to the doctor can be a financially painful experience. It can be difficult to find out how the prices of GPs compare in your area, never mind trying to find a bulk billing practice. Thankfully, James Gillespie is trying to solve these problems, by creating a publicly searchable database, called Cleanbill , that lists medical centres by location, fees, bulk-billing and whether they’re taking new patients. Today on The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with James about his database, what his data has shown about Australian GP billing practices, and why he's become such a thorn in the side of the federal Health Minister. Headlines: US Supreme Court rules Trump wrongly removed from Colorado Apple fined $3b over antitrust moves Liberal MP says work to be done on preselecting women France to enshrine abortion rights in their constitution Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E101 · Mon, March 04, 2024
Why nangs are no laughing matter
You’ve probably heard of 'nangs', the canisters full of nitrous oxide. The laughing gas can help whip your cream - but used incorrectly, it can also make you high. The substance can be more dangerous than it seems - nangs have contributed to the deaths of 20 people in the last 20 years in Australia, with more potentially not recorded as coronial lab equipment isn’t always up to the task. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert sits down with LiSTNR reporter Archie Milligan to discover how dangerous nangs are, and hear from a nitrous oxide seller who's using TikTok videos to marketing their product. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E100 · Sun, March 03, 2024
Why are our casinos so dodgy?
The Australian casino industry has been in strife for years, and the latest iteration is another enquiry into Sydney’s Star. The second Bell review is currently underway and set to finish up in May looking at whether the Star’s license should be revoked. This comes after the Star was fined $100m 18 months ago; was found unsuitable to run a casino; and an external manager was appointed. In this episode of The Briefing Katrina Blowers sits down with Helen Bird from Swinburne University to find out why our casinos seem to be so dodgy. Headlines: China revealed as country behind spy operation targeting Australia Israel refuses to attend ceasefire talks in Cairo Albanese criticises Liberal ‘fear campaign’ following Dunkley by-election 12,000 people marched in Sydney’s Mardi Gras Planning for King Charles royal visit gets underway Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E99 · Sat, March 02, 2024
Aussie pop-guitar duo Royel Otis on surprise success and rock star tours
Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic make up the Aussie pop-guitar duo Royel Otis. The pair are living the rock star life on tour, currently being in the middle of a sold-out national tour before they head to North America for a month of shows. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Royel and Otis talk about the process behind their debut album Pratts and Pain, why they initially didn’t want to do live performances, and why the duo were so unsure about covering Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s 2001 hit Murder on the Dance Floor for Triple J’s Like a Version - which has since gone viral with more than 7 millions views on Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E98 · Fri, March 01, 2024
Rowi Singh on beauty, influence and representation
Rowi Singh is a Sydney-based artist and beauty influencer. She’s a proud Indian-Australian woman, and melds Indian and Western culture in many of the mesmerizing makeup looks she showcases on TikTok and Instagram. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Rowi admits she always wanted to be “some sort of famous”, explains the choice to ditch her nine-to-five job for influencing - and tells us why representation in the beauty industry matters. Weekend List: World of Secrets Season Two, The Disciples (podcast) Brooklyn Nine Nine Morning Wars Season Two Life with Piccasso Reading trash magazines Griselda See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E97 · Fri, March 01, 2024
Is social media becoming a bit shit?
Do you remember the early days of Facebook and Instagram? When your feed was filled with content you actually wanted like your friends’ updates and family dog pictures? Have you noticed that now every second post feels like it’s sponsored or an ad? If yes, it's not your imagination - it’s because you’re noticing the cycle social media platforms go through, where they seem to get worse and worse over time. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert delves into just how that cycle works, with Canadian-British blogger and journalist Cory Doctorow. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E96 · Thu, February 29, 2024
Will the vaping ban create a new generation of ciggie smokers?
The crackdown on vaping goes into its next stage today, with the government making it illegal to import any non-therapeutic vapes, that includes rechargable vapes and anything you would buy without a prescription. It’s after disposable vapes were banned from being imported at the beginning of this year. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Jamie Hartmann-Boyce from the Department of Health Promotion and Policy at the University of Massachusetts to find out whether banning vapes could drive people back to cigarettes. Headlines: UN says war crimes have been committed by Israel and Hamas Putin warns West they risk nuclear war Joe Biden’s team say he’s fit for duty Sporting codes set to take part in Mard Gras Summer possible third hottest on record Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E95 · Thu, February 29, 2024
Meet the "A-Team", the spies who tried to steal Australia's secrets
An elite foreign spy group called 'A-Team' has been targeting Australian students, academics, law enforcement officials, a former politician and even a prime minister’s family members. That's the assessment of Australia's top intelligence agency, ASIO, which released its annual assessment of the biggest threats to our national security overnight. On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Joey Watson, 'spy watcher', investigative journalist and host of Secrets We Keep: Nest of Traitors . He reveals why foreign espionage and spying has overtaken far-right extremism and other threats become our intelligence services' top concern. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E94 · Wed, February 28, 2024
The NRL is launching in Las Vegas. Can it win over the US?
The NRL will create history this month and launch season 2024 in Las Vegas, USA. Two games will be played in prime time: Sea Eagles v Rabbitohs & Roosters v Broncos, with the league hoping to bring their game to America’s 330 million strong market. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert sits down with former NRL great, host of the Bye Round & NRL commentator for Fox Sports and Triple M James Graham from Vegas to get the low down. Headlines: ASIO reveals details of international spy ring targeting Australia Matildas are going to the Paris Olympics NSW police can march in Mardi Gras without uniform Red Bull’s Christian Horner exonerated Prince Harry loses court challenge over security Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E93 · Wed, February 28, 2024
'I’d never heard of ovarian cancer - until Mum got it'
"Ovarian cancer wasn't even on my radar." February is ovarian cancer awareness month in Australia. It's a cruel disease, with 70% of patients discovering the cancer in advanced stages, and a shocking 49% five-year survival rate. In this episode of The Briefing, our producer Simon Beaton sits down to speak with his mum, who was diagnosed less than six months ago, as well as Lisa Finuncane, who has been living with ovarian cancer for over fourteen years, to discuss their experiences of living with the cancer, and what they hope their futures will look like . This is part two of our special series on ovarian cancer - listen to part one here . To find out more about ovarian cancer, or to donate, visit Ovarian Cancer Australia at https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E92 · Tue, February 27, 2024
Why this silent cancer flies under the radar
Ovarian cancer is a silent scourge in Australia. Most people know little about it, there aren’t any tests you can do to detect it early, and that means 70% of women and gender diverse people diagnosed with it catch it late. Ovarian cancer has a 49% five year survival rate, whereas breast cancer by contrast has a 92% survival rate. In this episode of The Briefing, producer Simon Beaton speaks with Bridget Bradhurst, the Acting Chief National Ovarian Cancer Advocacy & Support Services to find out why ovarian cancer is such an overlooked disease. Headlines: A vigil has been held for Jesse Baird and Luke Davies Stage Three tax cuts pass parliament Hamas and Israel pour cold water on ceasefire South east braces for catastrophic fire day Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E91 · Tue, February 27, 2024
Is Taylor Swift bad for the environment?
Taylor Swift has finished her run of sold-out concerts here in Australia, playing in front of over 600,000 fans throughout the tour. Yet with events of this size comes a price to our environment. Many fans fly interstate or internationally, purely to be at those shows, which also use large amounts of power to amplify sound and for light displays. They also produce copious amounts of waste, including everything from paper cups through to glitter, bracelets and feather boas. LiSTNR journalist, Loren Howarth, joins Bension Siebert on this afternoon's episode of The Briefing to explain just big of a problem this is, and what can be done to make festivals and large-scale concerts more eco-friendly and sustainable in the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E90 · Mon, February 26, 2024
Why are we heading to the moon again?
American firm Intuitive Machines made history last Friday when its lunar lander touched down on the Moon. It’s the first private company to land on the Moon, and the first US mission to land on the lunar surface in more than 50 years. It’s up there for a week conducting experiments and preparing for humans to return to the Moon as part of NASA’s Artemis program. In this episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by Swinburne University Astrophysicist Dr Rebecca Allen to find out what it’s doing up there and what NASA needs to do to get back to the Moon. Headlines: Aussie companies singled out in landmark gender pay gap data Mardi Gras organisers uninvite NSW Police from Saturday’s march Sweden is set to join NATO Scott Morrison to give his final speech in Parliament today Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E89 · Mon, February 26, 2024
How friends of Jesse Baird want him to be remembered
Police have charged a New South Wales police officer, Constable Beau Lamarre-Condon, with the murder of former Network Ten presenter, Jesse Baird, and his partner, QANTAS flight attendant Luke Davies. At the time of recording, police divers have been searching dams in Goulburn, southwest of Sydney, looking for Baird and Davies’ bodies. Often, when we tell these stories, we focus on the criminal allegations – but Isaac Muller, a proud Wiradjuri and Palawa man, and one of Jesse’s friends – wants him to be remembered not for his death, but for the extraordinary person he was in life. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Isaac, who reflects on his memories of Jesse Baird. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E88 · Sun, February 25, 2024
How two years of war in Ukraine has changed the world
It’s been two years since the start of the war in Ukraine, and both Russia and Ukraine appear to be at a stalemate. Russia has been making tiny territorial gains on the ground at an enormous cost both in troops and equipment; while Ukraine is on the backfoot after failing to achieve the objectives of their 2023 counteroffensive, while also sustaining huge casualties. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Ukraine-born Politico journalist Zoya Sheftalovich to find out what’s happening on the ground; what the war has taught us about NATO, the EU and US relationship; the China-Russia relationship; sanctions; and her predictions for how the war could end. Headlines: Authorities hold grave concerns over heat spike in Victoria, as bushfires burn in the west Housing and tax cuts to dominate as parliament resumes this week Nikki Haley loses South Carolina Republican primary, vows to keep up the fight against Donald Trump Accidental discovery solves 120-year missing ship mystery Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E87 · Sat, February 24, 2024
Kumi Taguchi on the importance of sharing our stories
Kumi Taguchi is an Australian journalist, broadcaster and presenter living in Sydney. She’s currently the host of Insight on SBS, which many would consider to be one of the most challenging and stressful hosting gigs in the country. Joining Tom Tilley for the Weekend Briefing, Kumi explains what goes on behind the scenes of the show, growing up “feeling on the outer”, reconnecting with her father before his death, and the importance of sharing stories. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E86 · Fri, February 23, 2024
Josh Szeps on why we need to have uncomfortable conversations
Josh Szeps wants us all think about having more uncomfortable conversations. The Australian media personality and podcast host, who recently departed the ABC because he was “too spicy” for the public broadcaster, is a big fan of asking the 'why' behind the status quo. Joining Antoinette Lattouf, Josh speaks on what life is like after the ABC, the non-mystery of the spelling of his name, and explains why he loves having uncomfortable conversations his guests on his own podcast, Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E85 · Fri, February 23, 2024
AI is changing the way we teach kids in Australia
This year, the Australian government have rolled out a national framework guiding the use of AI, including Chat GPT, to be used within school classrooms across the country. Use of Chat GPT had previously been banned in all public schools (aside from South Australia) amidst plagiarism and privacy concerns. So what changed? And will the use of artificial intelligence in our classrooms aid or limit learning for our youth? On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, our producer Simon Beaton speaks with Dr Jason Zagami from Griffith University's School of Education and Professional Studies, to find out more about how AI is being used in the new framework, and how we can expect this tech to change teaching in the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E84 · Thu, February 22, 2024
Are Millennial parents everything that's right with Generation Alpha?
Are we raising a generation of soft kids? Millennial parents are getting blamed for everything that seems to be wrong with Generation Alpha: that they’re lazy, entitled, addicted to their screens, and averse to boredom. Another big criticism is they lack resilience, social skills, and even the ability to read. In this episode of The Briefing we sit down with social researcher Ashley Fell to find out what is this generation of mums, dads and caregivers getting wrong when it comes to raising the next generation? Headlines: Alexei Navalny’s mother says she’s seen her son’s body Average Aussie weekly wage revealed in new data TGA approves new drug to treat endometriosis 31-year-old ‘Bobi’ stripped of world’s oldest dog title Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E83 · Thu, February 22, 2024
A young woman speaks out from inside Rafah, Gaza's violent last refuge
March 10th is the deadline Israel has given Hamas to release the remaining hostages before Israel launches a massive, troops-on-the-ground invasion of Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah. In this special afternoon episode of The Briefing, we speak to a 26-year-old woman sheltering in Rafah with her remaining family. Palestinian journalist and translator Aseel Mousa shares her story of survival, and reveals exactly what life is like in Rafah right now, as a new catastrophe looms. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E82 · Wed, February 21, 2024
Could rentvesting be your secret to beating the housing crisis?
More and more Australians are choosing rentvesting as their way into the property market. It’s basically buying in a high rent areas as an investment and then renting in an area you want to live. It means you can break into the property market, purchasing a property in lower-cost areas without giving up the benefits of a city lifestyle. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by property expert Michael Beresford from OpenCorp, to find out how rentvesting works, and if it’s for you. Headlines: US lawyers say Julian Assange put lives at risk Brisbane aged care facility investigated over maggot-infested wound Should we axe tax deductions Female leads in Hollywood films are down Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E81 · Wed, February 21, 2024
Will the Woolies CEO retiring change anything for you at the checkout?
At 8:30am today, Woolworths announced its CEO Brad Banducci is retiring after eight years in the top job. Woolworths announced to the stock market that Banducci will be retiring in September, to make way for the company’s head of loyalty, Amanda Bardwell. It comes after Balducci's disastrous interview on the ABC’s Four Corners on Monday night. So was this change due to Banducci's conduct in the interview, or was this plan already in the works? And can a change in leadership stem the PR bleeding for Woolworths, which, much like Coles and Qantas, has nosedived in recent months? On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert chats with Tim Burrowes - one of the country’s top media and PR analysts and author of the popular newsletter UnMade - to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E80 · Tue, February 20, 2024
Should pharmacists be given more power to issue prescriptions?
Pharmacists are being given more power to give and refill prescriptions. It comes as more and more GPs opt out of bulk billing and a doctor shortage in regional areas mean it’s more difficult to see a doctor. So where are the trials and what types of medications can you get without having to see a GP? We’ll hear frome the Australian Medical Association, someone involved in the NSW/ACT Pharmacy Trial, and look at where those trials are at the moment, if they’re being considered successful and if they really will take the pressure of GPs. Headlines: Assange facing last appeal against US extradition US vetoes Gaza ceasefire resolution at the UN Triple murder takes place in Sydney Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E79 · Tue, February 20, 2024
Is Sydney's asbestos mulch crisis about to spread across the country?
Sydney is currently dealing with a widespread asbestos-contaminated mulch investigation, with 45 locations - including potentially six schools - contaminated with bonded asbestos that was mixed in with garden mulch. Since investigation into the mulch began, most identified sites have been found with the much lower risk bonded asbestos, while two have been found to include friable asbestos, which poses a much greater health risk to the community. So how did this happen, and is the rest of the country at risk? And could this current situation in NSW lead to greater control of asbestos nationally moving forward? On today's episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with LiSTNR journalist Tessa Randello, who has been following the recent crisis. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E78 · Mon, February 19, 2024
Who are the 41,000 victims of our growing human trafficking market?
The number of people charged with human trafficking in Australian Federal Police is growing year on year. We’re talking about forced marriage, sexual exploitation, child trafficking, forced labour, domestic servitude and even slavery. In this episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by Justine Nolan is a Professor in the Faculty of Law and Justice at UNSW Sydney and Director of the Australian Human Rights Institute, to take a deep dive on what constitutes human trafficking and why, despite increased awareness, it keeps growing year on year Headlines: Alexei Navalny's widow vows to keep fighting for a free Russia Labor senator backs drug and alcohol testing for politicians Woman goes into labour at Taylor Swift's concert Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E77 · Mon, February 19, 2024
The stunning bravery and suspicious death of Alexei Navalny
The man many considered Russian President Vladimir Putin’s most powerful critic, Alexie Navalny, is dead. His death comes after a highly publicised assassination attempt a few years ago, when it's believed Russian secret services tried to kill him by putting the deadly nerve agent Novichok into his underpants. Incredibly, Navalny survived that assassination attempt. However, instead of remaining safe in exile overseas like many of the country’s opposition figures, he returned to Russia, where he was quickly arrested and sent to prison. So who was Alexie Navalny, and why was it now that Putin has supposedly had him killed? And what does this mean for the pro-democracy movement in Russia moving forward? On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Russian politics specialist from La Trobe University, Dr Robert Horvath, to learn more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E76 · Sun, February 18, 2024
Dementia: The growing challenge to Australians as they age
There are 450,000 Australians living with Dementia. Our parents or grandparents drift away from us as the disease takes hold. So are we doing enough to manage the crisis? Closed wards, limited interactions with the outside world, a long list of medications, in some cases restraints, doesn’t sound like the way we’d like to see our loved ones treated. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Maree McCabe, the CEO of Dementia Australia, to try to find out what can be done for our family and friends as the number of Australians with Dementia escalates. Headlines: Anthony Albanese blames Putin for Navalny's death Around 40 suspected asylum seekers transported to Nauru Sydney's asbestos problem grows Taylor Swift wraps up her Melbourne shows Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E75 · Sat, February 17, 2024
Tony Armstrong on why hard work doesn’t always pay off
Tony Armstrong is a proud Gamilaroi man and former AFL player, turned TV presenter, podcaster and two time Logie winner. With his moustache and cheeky smile all over our screens as the sports presenter on ABCTV News Breakfast and a regular on the project, Tony seems to have it all. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Tony unpacks his relationship with Adam Goodes, how he feels since the Voice referendum and why hard work doesn’t always pay off. Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E74 · Fri, February 16, 2024
Azure Antoinette and her friendship with Antoinette Lattouf
Azure Antoinette is a Grammy nominated poet, a corporate crisis fixer, a public speaker and a global ambassador for living with multiple sclerosis. Azure moved to left LA and arrived on Australian shores a few years ago, both for love, and because of threats from the Ku Klux Klan which drove her from home. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Azure breaks down what it’s like being the co-host of a new podcast, The Antoinettes, with our very own Antoinette Lattouf. Weekend List: Bogan San Choy Bao Dance class at your gym or at home with MadFit on Youtube Taylor Elyse Tomlinson Netflix specials Dance Life on Amazon Prime Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E73 · Fri, February 16, 2024
Are we too Swift in criticising obsessed popstar fans?
Taylor Swift is the talk of the town, with the icon shortly kicking off her leg of the Australian Eras Tour show tonight in Melbourne. The hype is real, with Swifties creating palpable levels of excitement right across the country. So why have we become so caught up in Swiftmania? And in a broader sense, why do fan girls cop more criticism than sports fans, who are often just as passionate? On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with LiSTNR journalist Loren Howarth, who has deep-dived into our cultural criticism of music fans. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E72 · Thu, February 15, 2024
Australia eliminated measles. Here's why it's making a comeback
Measles is making a comeback. Here’s what you need to know. Australia was declared Measles-free ten years ago, but a resurgence in cases, largely from people visiting from overseas, has seen it return. It’s not just a itchy rash, either. It can lead to very serious health problems. So in this episode of The Briefing, how and why has Measles returned to Australia and what you need to know to stay safe. Headlines: Judge lists first Trump criminal trial for next month Politicians call for HECS overhaul Israeli army storms Gaza’s main hospital Britain slides into recession ahead of election Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E71 · Thu, February 15, 2024
Tasmania is heading to an early election. Here's why you should care
Tasmania, currently the last Liberal government in the country, will head to an election more than a year earlier than planned. Yesterday, Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced that Tasmanians will vote on March 23rd, amidst claims that the parliament has become unworkable after two former Liberal MPs ditched the party and won’t agree to pass legislation. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Tessa Randello from the Listnr newsroom joins Bension Siebert to discuss how the party in power for the last 10 years ended up in a minority, and the impact this result could have on the rest of the country. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E70 · Wed, February 14, 2024
The growing divide between Gen Z, Millennials and everyone else
Gen Z or a Millennial? You’ve probably been told you’re more likely to vote toward the left of the political spectrum, only to drift further right as you get older. Well new research suggests that’s not actually the case. Gen Z and Millennials are sticking with the left. They’re deciding things like LGBTQI+ issues, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues, wider gender issues and climate change, are really important and they expect their politicians to think the same. In this episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by Shaun Ratcliff, a political scientist, lecturer at Sydney University and data scientist at the political research firm Accent Research. We pose the question, why are Gen Z and Millennials bucking the trend in their political persuasions? Headlines: Victorian disaster payments 200 million Indonesians voted in the world's largest single-day election Tasmanian election campaign kicks off a year early Taylor Swift has touched down in Australia Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E69 · Wed, February 14, 2024
We need to talk about flowers, chocolate, and consent this Valentine's Day
Valentine’s Day for most usually means overpriced chocolates, flowers, presents (and maybe even sex). But Chanel Contos says it's also a particularly good time to talk about consent, and how to keep it front and centre in our intimate relationships. The pressure surrounding Valentine’s Day can be overwhelming, with partners seeking consent often forgotten about or assumed. Is there a larger conversation needed about how we view and educate others about consent as a society? In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Chanel Contos from Teach Us Consent to learn more about consent and her partnership with the condom brand, Lifestyle, to help share the message of consent this Valentine’s Day. If you need support, contact the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), or check out their website for resources. To find out more about Teach Us Consent: Website Instagram To find out more about their partnership with LifeStyles: Website (Let's Talk Consent) Instagram Facebook See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E68 · Tue, February 13, 2024
The big green gimmick - does your climate action make a difference?
We’re all recycling, buying electric cars, taking paper and recycled bags to the supermarket, but do our climate change actions really move the needle on global warming? There are anti-global warmists who say renewable energy is a myth, you achieve nothing by recycling your bottles and cans, and putting your paper in the paper bin is a waste of time. Are they right...? In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Amanda McKenzie, the CEO of Climate Council to find the truth in the debate over whether your and my climate action really makes a difference in the grand scheme of things. Headlines: Victorian storms and fires Israeli ceasefire talks back underway Taylor tix hacked Don’t swim with diarrhea 💩 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E67 · Tue, February 13, 2024
Like the Olympics, but on steroids. Meet the Enhanced Games
From disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong to Russia systematically doping its Olympic athletes, there has been no shortage of drug cheating scandals in the world of sport. But what if we throw out the rule book, letting athletes push their bodies to the maximum possible performance - using whatever drugs they want? Aron D'Souza is the president of the proposed Enhanced Games, an elite international sporting event without drug testing being planned to take place later this year. While he says the event would have strenuous health testing to keep athletes safe, many experts have countered that the games put athletes at serious risk. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Aron D'Souza to find out more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E66 · Mon, February 12, 2024
What the climate catastrophe in Antarctica means for Australia
Climate change is having an incredible impact on the continent of Antarctica. Historic drops in sea ice are accelerating the melt of ice sheets and the slowing of ocean currents, as well as catastrophic failures of emperor penguin colonies. A deteriorating climate in Antarctica will have a devastating impact on Australia. In this episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by Professor Matt King, an Antarctic expert at the University of Tasmania, and Director of the Australian Centre of Excellence in Antarctic Science. We find out how Antarctica’s climate crisis will impact Australia. Headlines: Two Israeli hostages freed from Gaza have been reunited with their families A catastrophic fire danger warning has been issued in Victoria Joe Biden wins the Superbowl Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E65 · Mon, February 12, 2024
Barnaby Joyce was filmed while laying on the ground. Does it matter?
Did you see the video and memes over the weekend of Nationals MP and former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce lying down next to a planter box on a Canberra footpath at night, swearing loudly into his phone? Since the video surfaced, Barnaby Joyce has said he’d been "drinking" and was on "prescription medication" at the time. However, the incident raises a question on the expectations we place on our politicians and whether they are different for different people. On this afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Sean Kelly, a columnist with the Nine Newspapers and former advisor to prime ministers Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E64 · Sun, February 11, 2024
What happened to the Aussie apprentice?
Australia has a dire shortage of apprentices. Some say it’s because of low pay and physically demanding work. Others argue Generation Z is simply too lazy or soft. Advocates want more subsidies and investment to boost the workforce. But some young apprentices have reported toxic workplaces and hazing. Meanwhile, older tradies are struggling amid a surplus of work and drought of young workers. So how did we get into this mess – and how can we fix it? ACTU assistant secretary Liam O’Brien joins us in today’s deep dive. Headlines: Barnaby Joyce won’t be at a scheduled Nationals party meeting today Donald Trump says he would encourage Russia to attack NATO countries A third of Aussie kids can’t read 58th Superbowl is on today Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E63 · Sat, February 10, 2024
Josh Thomas and his gloriously messy homecoming
Josh Thomas became a house hold name after his series Please Like Me was nominated for an Emmy, hitting the global stage. The Aussie comedian has spent the last seven years living in LA - but has decided it’s time to come back home. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Josh unpacks his new stand up comedy show, Let’s Tidy Up, about his ADHD, autism and how that turns into a messy house. Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E62 · Fri, February 09, 2024
Ellie Cole found true happiness once she stopped swimming
Ellie Cole is Australia's most decorated female Paralympian, but that’s not what bought her happiness. When Ellie claimed her seventeenth Paralympic swimming medal in Tokyo she made history. And this year she was just recognised in Australia Day honours. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Ellie explains how she found true happiness once she stopped swimming. Weekend List: Fly screens from Bunnings Uno card game Secrets we keep: Nest of Traitors season 2 Lounder Milk on Netflix Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E61 · Fri, February 09, 2024
Should the Supreme Court kick Donald Trump out of the US election?
The US Supreme Court has a massive decision to make – whether to kick Donald Trump off the ballot in the 2024 election. It follows a decision of Colorado’s top court that Trump is ineligible to be on the ballot in that state. But should a court strip voters of their right to choose the next President of the United States? Dave Levinthal is Editor-in-Chief of Raw Story. He joins Bension Siebert from Washington D.C. to tell us what happened in the Supreme Court overnight and what it might mean for the US going forward. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E60 · Thu, February 08, 2024
Is it right to medicate our dogs so they can live longer?
The dog-loving world went into meltdown recently, with the announcement of a brand new drug to help increase the life expectancy of large-breed dogs. The company behind it, Loyal is on the path to getting conditional approval from the US FDA for the drug and has also just kicked off a new study for a pill that’d see our smaller four-legged friends live longer, too. So how soon can we expect to see these treatments available? And what are the ethical issues surrounding such a pill? On today’s episode of The Briefing, we chat with Brennen McKenzie, the Director of Veterinary Medicine at Loyal. Headlines: Labor is going to have to re-work its right to disconnect legislation Global warming exceeds 1.5c level Live export update Paris medals to have Eiffel Tower in them Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E59 · Thu, February 08, 2024
#legginglegs is banned on TikTok. Here's why it wasn't a good fit
Have you seen the #legginglegs hashtag that was circulating on TikTok and Instagram? The trend saw female influencers posting videos of themselves wearing leggings, with the subtext promoting the idea that you need slim legs to do so. It quickly saw backlash over concerns that it could lead girls towards unhealthy eating or exercise behaviours, even leading to intervention from TikTok itself, now when you search for #legginglegs you'll be directed to Butterfly Foundation resources). So why do we keep seeing these diet culture trends repackaged? Are we getting any better at calling them out? And should we be striving for body neutrality instead of comparing ourselves to endless online trends? On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by LiSTNR journalist Micaela Savage to explain the #legginglegs trend. Help is always available. If you need support with an eating disorder, or have body image concerns, you can call Butterfly’s National Helpline on 1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673), or head to www.butterfly.org.au for more information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E58 · Wed, February 07, 2024
You need to calm down - Taylor Swift and the MAGA conspiracy
Taylor Swift is a global superstar. She’s sold over 200 million records and is the highest-grossing female touring artist of all time. And now she’s the subject of a MAGA conspiracy. Donald Trump supporters are spreading the theory Taylor Swift is working with the Democrats to ensure Joe Biden is re-elected at the November US presidential elections. AND they’re going so far as to say her boyfriend, NFL star Travis Kelce, the NFL itself, AND the Pentagon are also part of the wild conspiracies. In this episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by Matt Harris, an associate professor of political science at Park University in the United States to learn how and why Tay Tay is driving the MAGA community to invent these wild theories. Headlines: Workers will be given the ‘right to disconnect’ after hours from their bosses Hamas proposes truce deal Earth Aid Live Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E57 · Wed, February 07, 2024
Should we get the 'right to disconnect' from work?
How often do you work outside of your paid hours? Are you checking emails, or Teams messages, or taking phone calls when you could be spending that time with loved ones? The Government is looking at giving you the 'right to disconnect', as federal parliament kicks off for 2024 this week. If successful, the new law could mean you get the right to switch off your devices, and refuse to engage with work altogether, out of hours. Greens Senator Barbara Pocock has been pushing for the right to disconnect for a long time. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Senator Pocock, as well as employment lawyer Natalie Gaspar, over how the proposed changes would work, and how our lives might change if the law passes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E56 · Tue, February 06, 2024
How much money you'll get back under the stage 3 tax cuts
The Albanese government’s tax plan will see Australian women taxpayers, on average, receive a tax cut of $1,649 from 1 July. Childcare workers, disability carers and aged care workers are some of the most likely to benefit. In this episode of The Briefing we’re joined by Minister for Women Katy Gallagher to find out how the tax cuts will work and what they mean for you. Headlines: US court rules Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity Prince Harry returns home to visit King Charles 'Right to switch off’ Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E55 · Tue, February 06, 2024
Why Australia will be in limbo if King Charles gets too sick to rule
News broke this morning that King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer, with an official release from Buckingham Palace stating that while he "remains wholly positive about his treatment", he will be stepping away from his public-facing duties. Despite the high hopes for the monarch’s future health, the situation has raised concerns over Australia’s lack of regency laws – which cover what happens if the reigning monarch becomes incapacitated. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with former Independent Senator Rex Patrick to find out the impacts of our lack of regency laws and what it could mean in the unfortunate event that Charles could no longer rule. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E54 · Mon, February 05, 2024
Why 16,000 livestock are stuck at sea with nowhere to go
16,000 sheep and cattle have been stranded on a ship off the coast of WA for just over a month. The livestock were being exported to the Middle East but the ship was turned back because of the conflict in the Red Sea. Several hundred head of cattle disembarked over the weekend – when temperatures hit the mid-30s. But there are still thousands of animals stranded at sea. In this episode of the Briefing, we take a look at why the live export trade, which is agonisingly cruel to the livestock, is still allowed to occur. Headlines: King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer. Yang Hengjun sentenced to death in China Coalition to support tax cuts Taylor Swift at the Grammys Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E53 · Mon, February 05, 2024
Do police belong at a pride march?
Thousands of people marched down the streets of St Kilda, south of Melbourne, yesterday for the annual Victorian LGBTQIA+ pride march at Midsumma festival. Queer and ally police officers were among the marchers, joining the celebration when about 50 people tried to block the officers’ way. Some of them were chanting ‘cops kill gays’ and there were banners that read ‘no cops at pride’, with outward aggression from both sides. The conflict has sparked debate over whether police officers should be permitted in pride marches while in uniform. Diane Minnis is a 78er - which means she was at the very first Mardi Gras march in Sydney in 1978, where many queer people were violently thrown into police vehicles and arrested. On today's afternoon edition of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Diane about her history, what happened over the weekend, and how to build a better future between the queer community and law enforcement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E52 · Sun, February 04, 2024
Could the collapse of China's biggest property developer lead to another GFC?
Evergrande used to be a market giant, and now it's become the poster child of the bust. It received a liquidation order from a Hong Kong court on Monday two years after officially defaulting on public debt. Its collapse is the largest in a crisis that's dragged down China's economic growth and led to a record number of defaults by developers. What is this firm, who is it run by and how did Evergrande become the most significant domino in this event? In this episode of The Briefing we speak with economist Richard Holden to find out, and ask what the implications are for the Australian economy. Headlines: Fuel efficiency standards for Australian cars US strikes continue Protesters target Police at Melbourne’s Midsumma Pride March Russian cosmonaut sets a record for the longest time spent in space Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E51 · Fri, February 02, 2024
How Caleb Finn became one of the most influential Aussies on social media
Caleb Finn was named the 2nd most influential Australian on social media in 2022, known for his avant-garde, dress-ups, and short horror stories. He has nearly 16 million followers on TikTok and 800k on Instagram. And yet he describes himself as an introvert and doesn’t like to leave the house. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf Caleb explains how long it takes him to create content and how it’s changed since having a baby. Weekend List: Wicked the musical Aldi insulated tumbler with straw Going to your local library Listeners recommendations! Keep them coming Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E50 · Fri, February 02, 2024
After 40 years, is Medicare living up to its promise?
Medicare is 40 years old this month, and the little green card is now a ubiquitous presence in our wallets and on our phones. It has become a point of pride for Australians - especially those of us who have ventured over to the United States. But that wasn’t always the case. The birth of Medicare was fraught; with its first iteration, Medibank, finding a very controversial reception by the public when it was first introduced by Gough Whitlam. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Kees Van Gool, a professor of health systems and policy at the University of Sydney, about how it all came together, and what still needs to be improved. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E49 · Thu, February 01, 2024
New Year’s resolution already failed? Here’s why
Up to 80 percent of new years resolutions fail by the end of January. So what is our obsession with starting fresh in the new year? Dr Gordon Spence from the University of Sydney sits down with Sacha Barber Gatt to reveal what tools you can use to help change your habits and why so many people become unstuck. Headlines: US to launch air strikes on Iran-backed militia group AEC releases the who's who of political donations Universal music has been taken off TikTok Chinese spy pigeon is set free by Indian authorities Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E48 · Thu, February 01, 2024
The spicy legal battle over who really invented butter chicken
For many Australians, Indian food equals butter chicken. It’s delicious and creamy and it’s incredibly popular here and across the world. But it hasn’t been around forever – in fact, it’s less than 100 years old. And now, a fight over exactly who invented butter chicken and when has erupted in India’s high court, with two families - and two restaurants - battling it out for bragging rights. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Delhi chef and food writer, Sadaf Hussain, to hear more about what's been going on. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E47 · Wed, January 31, 2024
Inside the hunt for the spy who betrayed Australia
The latest series in the Secrets We Keep podcast is called “Nest of Traitors” and follows LiSTNR journalist Joey Watson’s three-year journey to find the spy who betrayed Australia. During the Cold War an Australian spy turned to work for the enemy, providing intel to the KGB and potentially sabotaging ASIO from the inside. In this episode of The Briefing, Joey Watson sits down with Sacha Barbour Gatt to talk through his journey into a world of deception Headlines: Tech firms face US Senate hearing Millions of songs are being pulled from Tiktok States fight for more school funding Medicare is turning 40 today Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E46 · Wed, January 31, 2024
Is recycling in Australia just rubbish?
Most of us try to do the right thing with recycling. We sort our rubbish into plastics, cardboard and paper, and our landfill waste, in the hope we’re saving the planet. But there have been reports of recyclable waste ending up in landfill, or even being shipped overseas for processing (that’s quite a carbon footprint). So The Briefing team decided to do our own experiment, placing trackable AirTags into plastic bottles at locations across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Central Coast to see where they ended up. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with LiSTNR Investigations Editor, Clair Weaver, to unpack what was found. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E45 · Tue, January 30, 2024
How Australia's 'Stop the boats' policy got exported to the UK
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is trying to pass a bill that would allow the UK to deport refugees, asylum seekers and illegal immigrants to Rwanda. The inspiration for the idea has come from Australia and our use of third-party countries like Nauru to deal with illegal immigrants. The policy is extremely controversial, it was initially launched by Boris Johnson in April 2022, and was then struck down by the Supreme Court over safety concerns. Bension Siebert is joined by Jill Rutter, Director of Strategy and Relationships at the UK think tank British Future, to explain the bill. Headlines: December retail spending dips US President has decided on response after soldier deaths New Zealand is banning PFAS in make up products Channel Nine apologises after altering politician image Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E44 · Tue, January 30, 2024
How worried should you be about neo-Nazism in Australia?
While a neo-Nazi demonstration was shut down in Sydney over the Australia Day long weekend, this isn't the only time that white supremacist groups have made the news recently. Last month a group of masked men marched through Ballarat chanting that 'Australia is for the white man', while earlier last year, about 30 men repeatedly performed the Nazi salute during an anti-trans rally. So how worried should you be about neo-Nazism in Australia? Nick McKenzie is one of Australia's most renowned investigative journalists, with an extensive knowledge of how white supremacist groups operate in Australia. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Nick to find out more about the current situation and the threat that they pose. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E43 · Mon, January 29, 2024
Christian Hull on the nine-month cruise blowing up TikTok
A ship called The Serenade of the Seas has embarked on a nine-month cruise, visiting more than 60 countries across all seven continents. It's being hailed as the world's longest cruise, and it gained notoriety when passengers began posting on TikTok - and it's now gone completely viral. In this episode of The Briefing, we're joined by Christian Hull, comedian, YouTuber and host of the Complete Drivel podcast here at LiSTNR, to find out why the cruise is taking the world by storm. Headlines: New poll shows what we think of Albanese's tax cuts Rental listings drop to record low Another La Nina event possible this year King Charles and Princess Kate leave hospital Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E42 · Mon, January 29, 2024
AI can now predict future events in human lives
The potential for artificial intelligence is indisputable. Though it has just been over a year since Chat GPT launched, now over 100 million people use the site weekly. But how far could the technology go? Could AI accurately predict the future? Some Danish researchers believe that it already can. In a published study, they've taken the principles of large language models, like Chat GPT, and applied it to data of Denmark's 6 million people, predicting with 78% accuracy aspects such as personality and behaviour, and even the likelihood of death within a given timeframe. In today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with lead author and researcher, Professor Sune Lehmann, about what the study found, and what it could mean for the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E41 · Sun, January 28, 2024
Is a private school education worth the money?
With annual fees pushing $50,000 at Australia's costliest elite private schools in 2024, it's time to look at what the data says on student performance in the big private vs public school debate. Is it actually worth sending a child to private school? What do they get for that eye-watering amount? Or is public education a better option, even if they don't have the fancy tennis courts and plunge pool? In this episode of The Briefing, authors David Gillespie and Jane Caro reveal what the evidence tells us on what factors actually matter in getting the best education for a child in Australia today. Headlines: Jannick Sinner wins Aus Open First US service men killed in Gaza Neo-nazis warned they could be unmasked Activists throw soup at Mona Lisa Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E40 · Fri, January 26, 2024
Our first female Muslim boxer, Tina Rahimi, is going to the Olympics
Tina Rahimi is one of the 12 boxers who have been selected to represent Australia at the Paris Olympics this year. She’s already made history without stepping into the ring. The Sydney sider is our first female Muslim boxer to make it to the Olympics. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf Tina explains how she went from a makeup artist to boxer in a few years, going on to win a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games. Weekend List: Dubai Bling on Netflix SBS on Demand Always Was, Always Will Be Love on the spectrum season 2 on Netflix Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E39 · Fri, January 26, 2024
Three powerful stories that show us what Australia Day means in 2024
What does January 26 really mean to ordinary Australians in 2024? Yevheniia Cherkasova found safety in Melbourne after she fled the war in Ukraine with her now-16-year-old sister, making a home here for almost two years. Jeffrey 'Yello' Simon-Ullungurra grew up on the Tiwi Islands, north of Darwin. He’s been looking for new ways to reconcile First Nations and Australian identities, and how to help his country heal. Michael Kheirallah witnessed a dramatic change in his Lebanese migrant community this year, as they process feelings of regret over the Voice referendum, and fear over war in the Middle East. Speaking with Bension Siebert, they each reflect on what Australia Day means to them in 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E38 · Thu, January 25, 2024
How the Voice referendum impacts our attitude to Australia Day
This year’s Australia Day comes after the defeat of the indigenous Voice to parliament last year - and the decision by a number of big retailers to stop stocking Australia Day merchandise. The question for many Australian’s over whether we should be celebrating on January 26 is still in debate. In this episode of The Briefing, ANU’s Frank Bongiorno speaks with us about Australia Day’s difficult history. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E37 · Thu, January 25, 2024
Luke and Sassy Scott on becoming a parent through overseas surrogacy
There are many ways in Australia to have children if you can’t physically procreate. You can foster or look into adoption - or you can find a surrogate. In Australia, it’s illegal to pay someone to carry a child for you – but nothing is stopping you from paying someone overseas. However, surrogacy isn't without contention or is an easy road - just this month the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, described surrogacy as 'deplorable'. Luke O’Halloran and Scott O’Halloran, otherwise known as Luke and Sassy Scott, are brothers with a massive public profile, with their podcast and TikTok presence amassing a plethora of fans here and overseas. Last year Scott and his partner Marcus decided to become parents via international surrogacy. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert sits down with Luke and Sassy Scott to find out firsthand about the experience. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E36 · Thu, January 25, 2024
Forget Margot Robbie. Meet the Aussie who is nominated for an Oscar
Our chat with Nicky Bentham, an Australian movie producer living and working in London. Nicky’s been nominated for an Academy Award for her work producing the short film ‘The After’. In this episode of The Briefing, we talk with Nicky about what it’s like to get the call to say you’re nominated, what it means for her career, and what she expects to happen on the big night. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E35 · Wed, January 24, 2024
Crypto had a big year in 2023. What's in store in 2024?
We stare into the crystal ball to see what's in cryptocurrency's future in 2024. Last year saw the notorious high-profile crypto court cases involving Sam Bankman-Fried and Changpeng Zhao. But despite the downfall of two of the currency's biggest players, crypto ended the year 160 percent up on 2022. In this episode of The Briefing, we're joined by Dr Dimitrios Salampasis, a financial technologies expert from Swinburne University, to find out what's in store for crypto in 2024. Headlines: Changes to stage three tax cuts Cyclone Kirrily set to make landfall IVF could save the northern white rhino Steve Smith joins call to "change the date" Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E34 · Wed, January 24, 2024
Why the biggest election year in world history threatens democracy
2024 will be the largest single election year in human history, with voters representing more than 40 per cent of the world’s population going to the polls this year. Fascist, authoritarian and strong-man candidates are candidates in many of those elections – threatening no less than the future of democracy. We take democracy for granted, but democracies can actually be very fragile. On today's afternoon episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert unpack the world’s biggest election year, and what it might mean for the future of democracy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E33 · Tue, January 23, 2024
Google it: How 'doing your own research' can make you believe anything
If you've been online at all in the last decade, you would've seen the phrase 'do your own research' in likely hundreds of comments sections. It turns out 'doing your own research' is precisely what can lead you to believing something untrue, according to a new study from the University of Central Florida. In this episode of The Briefing we speak with lead author Kevin Aslett about why we're more likely to believe misinformation even if we try to verify it. Headlines: Scott Morrison announces retirement from politics Labor caucus meets to discuss stage three tax cuts Voting opens in New Hampshire primaries Margot Robbie snubbed in Oscars nominations Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E32 · Tue, January 23, 2024
Scott Morrison has officially announced that he'll retire from politics
Scomo is finally calling it – the former PM announced today he will be stepping down from federal parliament. It closes a wild chapter in Australian political history. Most Australians came to know him as Immigration Minister in 2013, but Scott Morrison got the top job when he toppled Malcolm Turnbull to become Prime Minister in 2018. As PM, he came to grief over a badly timed holiday to Hawaii while much of Australia burned in the 2019-2020 bushfires. He also gained a reputation for secrecy, famously signing the massive AUKUS submarine deal with the United States and Britain, snubbing France along the way. He led the country through the COVID crisis. And finally lost the prime ministership when Anthony Albanese’s Labor Party defeated the Coalition in 2022. Bension Siebert is joined by Tom McIlroy, federal political correspondent for the Australian Financial Review, to reflect on today's news, Scott Morrison's political journey and the legacy he leaves behind. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E31 · Mon, January 22, 2024
Can the government force supermarkets to lower their prices, and should it?
Grocery prices have been sky-rocketing. A brief trip to the supermarket for just a handful of items can cost a small fortune. The Federal Government has announced it is holding a review into grocery prices in its bid to reduce cost of living pressure. In this episode of The Briefing, we're joined by Tim Harcourt and Gary Mortimer to ask 'can the government actually force supermarkets to lower the prices and should it?' Headlines: Stage three tax cuts under debate Sexual violence cases under review ABC’s managing director caves to staff pressure An Aussie licence plate to sell for $10 million Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E30 · Mon, January 22, 2024
How 'sponge cities' could help us reduce the destruction of floods
With parts of the Northern Territory experiencing the ongoing impacts of devastating floods across summer, Far North Queensland is again bracing for heavy rainfall from the currently developing Tropical Cyclone Kirrily. These weather events are nothing new - they follow a long list of devastating floods that have plagued the country over the last few years. But could a sponge city be the best way to tackle future flooding across the country? Also known as water sensitive urban design, these building principles involve using soft materials like plants, or water catchment techniques, instead of hard surfaces like concrete, to absorb water rather than repel water. On this episode of The Briefing, Simon Beaton speaks with Swinburne Professor of Architecture and Urban Design, Marcus White, to find out whether these design principles could be better utilised in Australia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E29 · Sun, January 21, 2024
Why King Charles' prostate is a reminder to check your balls
Buckingham Palace has announced King Charles will have a procedure on his prostate. The news prompted an 11-fold increase in internet searches for 'enlarged prostate'. Men all over the world are renowned for ignoring their health and their reluctance to be tested for critical health diagnoses. Why? In this episode of The Briefing, we speak with Jonathon Papadopoulo, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer in his 20s, about what prompted him to get checked, and what an early diagnosis meant for his chances of surviving. Headlines: Gas deal locked in by the federal government Gaza death toll hits 25,000 De Minaur knocked out of Aus Open Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E28 · Fri, January 19, 2024
The reality of being Australia’s best new radio talent
Breakfast radio is brutal. The 4am wake ups, the competition, trying to stay at top of the ratings and unpredictable talkback callers. But Laura O’Callaghan just loves it In 2021 Loz joined Roo and Ditz on Triple M brekky in Adelaide and she’s then has made her mark taking home best new talent at the commercial radio awards last year. In this chat Antoinette Lattouf, Loz explains what it’s really like being a women in radio especially on a pretty blokey show. Weekend List: Boy Swallows Universe on Netflix Trent Dalton interview with Jamila Rizvi Mean Girls the new movie in cinemas Mini Bands workout inspo Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare on Netflix Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E27 · Fri, January 19, 2024
Behind the unexpected rebirth of the magazine
We’ve all heard the term ‘print is dead’, but is it? Turns out the magazine sector continues to have a loyal consumer base, in fact seeing growth in Australia through 2023. And it isn't just the same old magazines that maintain popularity - we've seen the launch of new products, as well as the rebirth of previously discontinued magazines such as Girlfriend. So what is it about the magazine? The nostalgic experience? The aesthetic of reading on paper instead of on a digital platform? The focus on a niche subject matter? In this episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf speaks with Literature and Digital Media Expert, Dr Julian Novitz from Swinburne University, to find out what's going on. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E26 · Thu, January 18, 2024
Can Australia ever stop drug overdoses at music festivals?
Earlier this month, nine people were hospitalised with hyperthermia (extreme overheating) after taking MDMA in the sweltering heat at Hardmission Festival. A recent study found that since 2000 there have been over 64 drug related deaths at musical festivals. Bension Siebert sat down with Dr David Caldicott to talk us through the scientific evidence for what works and what doesn't in preventing overdoses at festivals. Headlines: UN to review Palestinian refugee operations Uvalde Texas school shooting report handed down Disappointing day at the Australian Open Pope talks sex Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E25 · Thu, January 18, 2024
Former Human Rights Watch head on journalistic censorship and the ABC
In the middle of a short backfill contract on ABC Radio Sydney late last year, journalist Antoinette Lattouf was abruptly sacked for sharing a Human Rights Watch post about Israel using starvation as a weapon of war. Now, Antoinette is taking the ABC to Fair Work Australia, claiming wrongful termination. With a private mediation hearing ending today without resolution, she says she will "fight for as long as it takes", and “will always advocate and fight for an ABC that can operate and inform the masses, inform and entertain the masses without fear or favour". In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with former executive director of Human Rights Watch Kenneth Roth about her co-host's sacking, and if the ABC's decision risks censoring journalism. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E24 · Wed, January 17, 2024
The rise and rise of ketamine
Ketamine use is growing among young Australian party and festival goers as a cut-price alternative to drugs like cocaine and ecstacy. National wastewater monitoring has found consumption of ketamine rose to a record high last year, but it comes with serious risks. In this episode of The Briefing, we're joined by Dr Monica Barratt, a social scientist at the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre at the University of New South Wales to find out what the risks are, and how to cope with the drug's side effects. Headlines: US to redesignate Houthis as terrorists King Charles to undergo prostate treatment Atlassian shows WFH policy has not hit productivity Djokovic slams crowd during tough Aus Open match Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E23 · Wed, January 17, 2024
Meet Sonny Rennison, Australia's first wheelchair ballkid
With all eyes on Melbourne as the Australian Open takes off, now is the time when so many of us go into tennis fever. But this year, get ready to see something completely new. 11-year-old Sonny Rennison is an upcoming superstar in the world of wheelchair tennis, already ranked 15th in the world. Now, Sonny is working with Mastercard to serve up Australia’s first wheelchair ballkid pilot program. With their support, Sonny co-created some nifty technology to help him undertake the role at the high standard required. On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Sonny Rennison, as well as one of Australia's top wheelchair tennis stars, Heath Davidson, about the importance of increasing accessibility for athletes with disability. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E22 · Tue, January 16, 2024
Who are the Houthis and why is Australia getting involved?
Ships in the Red Sea are increasingly coming under attack from Houthis rebels. The Iranian-backed, Yemen-based group has threatened to continue the attacks in a bid to disrupt ships from delivering goods to and from Israel, prompting the US, UK and Australia to carry out strikes against the Houthis. Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Middle East expert Sarah Phillips from the University of Sydney to explain who the rebel group are and how their attacks could lead to a wider conflict with the western world. Headlines: Trump in court after Iowa Wong vows to double humanitarian aid to Palestinian territories The 2023 Emmy Awards Checking in with Antoinette Lattouf Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E21 · Tue, January 16, 2024
How could we better look after those with dementia?
Dementia is the second leading cause of death of all Australians, with more than 400,000 people currently living with the disease in 2024. It can be a horrendous thing to watch a loved one go through, with the impact of the disease on both the individual and those who love them immense. Exploring this experience forms the core element of independent movie maker Jonathan De Jong's latest project, Human Forever. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour-Gatt sits down with Jonathon to hear about the documentary , which tells the gripping story of 24-year-old Teun, who resides in the closed ward of a nursing home alongside people with dementia – seeking answers about life, ageing, and the uncharted territories of the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E20 · Mon, January 15, 2024
Inside the first day of Donald Trump's race for the White House
The 2024 race to the White House begins today in lowa. The upper mid-west state hosts the first Caucuses of the Presidential election campaign. Donald Trump hopes to secure enough votes to force his rivals to pull out of the race. Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley hope to put a dent in Trump's momentum. Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Chas Licciardello, host of the ABC's Planet America, to explain why the lowa Caucus is so importent in the race to the White House. Headlines: New dangerous party drugs Houthi rebels attack American-owned ship Australia's richest get richer Great day for Australia at the Aussie Open Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E19 · Mon, January 15, 2024
Why does Taiwan's election result matter to the rest of the world?
The recent election in Taiwan has made headlines all over the world and has made China very, very unhappy. It's expected that the new President-elect, Lai Ching-te from the pro-sovereignty Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), will be pushing further for Taiwan to remain a self-governing democracy, independent of the rule of China - a stance that has ramifications for the rest of the world, given that Taiwan produce over 90% of the world's advanced microchips. On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by an expert in Southeast Asian politics, Dr Roger Lee Huang from Macquarie University, to explain the situation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E18 · Sun, January 14, 2024
All hail Queen Mary, the first Australian-born Queen Consort
Mary Donaldson was born and raised in Tasmania, and has today become Queen of Denmark. It's a remarkable story of a girl living in a share house in Bondi Junction, who met the love of her life at a bar during the Sydney Olympics, and didn't know he was a prince. In this episode of The Briefing we're joined by Sebastian Olden-Jorgensen, Professor of Modern History specialising in court history, to talk about how a girl from Tasmania became Queen of Denmark. Headlines: 100 days since the start of the war in Gaza Pro-sovereignty party wins in Taiwan election Mass rescue at Sydney beach Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E17 · Fri, January 12, 2024
Nazeem Hussain on keeping mum and performance anxiety
Comedian Nazeem Hussain has done a lot of things – he created a TV show on SBS, made the Grand Finals of I'm a Celebrity Get Me out of Here, and he's recently added childrens book author to his accolades. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Nazeem reveals how he hid his comedy career from his mum and his most terrifying performance experience to date Weekend List: Off Menu podcast My 21st Century Blues album by Raye Lychee Martini by Glow up Beverages Antoinette's staycation tips Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S1 E16 · Fri, January 12, 2024
How to set up for retirement in 2024
Chances are that if you aren’t closely approaching retirement, you might not be thinking too critically about it... but should you be? How much exactly will you need to retire, what should you be doing now to safeguard your future, and what could you do to retire sooner rather than later? This week, The Briefing team brings you a five-part series on how to sort out your financial life in the new year. In today's episode, Bension Siebert is joined by Trish Gregory, financial adviser to Millennials & Gen Z, to talk through what you need to know about retirement now. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E15 · Thu, January 11, 2024
The genocide case against Israel
The International Court of Justice has held its first public hearing in the genocide case against Israel, over its war in Gaza. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu denies his country is committing genocide against the Palestinian people. He declared war following the October 7 terrorist attacks – where Hamas killed around 1,200 Israeli citizens and kidnapped a further 240. Bension Siebert is joined by international law expert, Juliette McIntyre, to discuss the first day of public hearings in the landmark case – and what impact it could have on the war, and the world. Headlines: Australia Day merchandise sparks war of words State of Emergency declared in Papua New Guinea Australia urged to start naming heatwaves Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E14 · Thu, January 11, 2024
How to buy a house in 2024
It’s the Great Australian Dream: buying a property of your own. But in a real estate market blighted by rising prices and high interest rates, getting onto the property ladder in the first place can seem impossible. But is there hope yet? This week, The Briefing team brings you a five-part series on how to sort out your financial life in the new year. In this episode, Bension Siebert is bringing you advice from property guru Dr Andrew Wilson on what you need to do to buy a home in 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E13 · Wed, January 10, 2024
Why crazy rent hikes are about to end
Australia's housing crisis is marching on: house prices across the country went up by 8.1% last year, while rents have gone up by a whopping 8.3%. But there could be light on the horizon, with rents forecast to ease in 2024. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Core Logic's Eliza Owen about what factors could bring our weekly rent down. HEADLINES: Woolies drops Australia Day gear Serious unrest in Papua New Guinea Nominations for the Screen Actors Guild Awards Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S1 E12 · Wed, January 10, 2024
How to get rich in 2024
Many of us got poorer in 2023, amidst a cost of living crisis that saw grocery prices, interest rates and rents surge. But there’s a group that still managed to get wealthier on the back of a rising market: investors. So with conditions expected to ease up, it’s time to look at how the rest of us can get on the same trajectory. This week, The Briefing team brings you a five-part series on how to sort out your financial life in the new year. In this episode, Bension Siebert is joined by the Motley Fool’s chief investment officer, Scott Phillips, to share his best tips on how to get rich in 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E11 · Tue, January 09, 2024
From prison to praise: Who is Gypsy Rose Blanchard?
After nearly nine years Gypsy Rose Blanchard has been released from prison. The now 32-year-old was convicted for her role in the murder of her mother Clauddine "Dee Dee" Blanchard. But she's being praised as a hero after surviving abuse at the hands of her mum who had a little-known syndrome called Munchausen by Proxy. Since her release Gypsy has been going viral and in this chat, Bension Siebert is joined by Sacha Barbour Gatt to break down the life of Gypsy and her sudden rise to fame. Lifeline 13 11 14 HEADLINES: Head of government probe into supermarkets named New surge in Covid infections Iconic promises refunds for hacked accounts France names its first openly gay PM Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E10 · Tue, January 09, 2024
How to get a promotion in 2024
Is 2024 the year you take your next step forward in your career? Getting a promotion makes many a New Year's resolutions list - but if you're hoping for one this year, what should you be doing to best set yourself up for one? And is getting a promotion all it's cracked up to be? This week, The Briefing team brings you a five-part series on how to sort out your financial life in the new year. In this episode, Bension Siebert is joined by Sue Williamson, Associate Professor of Human Resource Management at UNSW Canberra, to guide us through the do's and dont's to getting a promotion. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E9 · Mon, January 08, 2024
Inside the program deradicalising Andrew Tate's teen fans
A year ago the Raising Awareness and Prevention (RAP) project in the UK was inundated with phone calls from boys' schools. The reason: Andrew Tate. The schools were concerned about the number of teenagers who were idolising the right wing influencer, who came to be known for his toxic takes on masculinity and women. One year on we speak with Deana Puccio, co-founder of the RAP Project to find out if any progress has been made, and what's been learned. HEADLINES: Flash flooding in parts of regional Victoria Cop lashes Summernats hoons US set to return to the moon Golden Globes wrap and goody bags Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E8 · Mon, January 08, 2024
How to financially re-set in 2024
It's a new year, you're a new you, let's get your finances sorted! Our bank accounts often take a major hit during the holiday season - so how do you quickly recover, and what should you be aiming for in 2024? This week, The Briefing team brings you a five-part series on how to sort out your financial life in the new year. In today's episodes, Bension Siebert is joined by Canstar Editor-at-Large and author of The Great $20 Adventure , Effie Zahos, to talk through the simple ways you can start to get your money in order. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E7 · Sun, January 07, 2024
How your work spaces could change in 2024
The 4-day work week, flexible working and co-working are all going to be major buzzwords this year. There's also coworking, where we're seeing moves towards creating spaces in suburban centres so that workers don't need to commute as far. In this episode Rhianna Patrick delves into all of this with Jared Lindzon, a freelance journalist who has been published in the BBC, Time Magazine and Fast Company. HEADLINES: Man to face court over Melbourne stabbings Eight rave goers in critical condition due to suspected More details on Alaska Airlines flight that lost a chunk of fuselage Rafael Nadal out of Australian Open Golden Globes to air today Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E6 · Fri, January 05, 2024
Summer Weekends: Elise Loehnen went from GOOP to reclaiming her name
Welcome to our summer series of the Weekend Briefing featuring some of your favourite interviews from 2023! Elise has achieved a lot! She has ghost written 12 books, was second-in-command at Goop and has now released her first book under her own name - On Our Best Behaviour: The Price Women Pay to Be Good. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Elise explains where the seven deadly sins originated from (and nope they’re not from the bible) and the pressure women place on themselves to be good. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E5 · Thu, January 04, 2024
Aussie rescue hero on Japan's gold standard earthquake plan
Dozens of people have died, hundreds have been injured– and tens of thousands of homes destroyed after Japan’s massive 7.6 magnitude earthquake earlier this week. But as Japan is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world, it’s also best prepared to deal with a major disaster like this. In this episode of the Briefing Rhianna Patrick is joined by disaster expert Arnold Dix to find out what makes the way Japan deals with earthquakes different to the rest of the world. Headlines: Time is running out to recover people crushed in Japan earthquake More details emerge over miracle Japan airlines evacuation Jeffrey Epstein associates named Record set for the biggest Sydney funnel web spider Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E4 · Wed, January 03, 2024
Why we can now take the Mickey out of Disney
For the first time, one of Disney’s marquee characters — Mickey himself — has entered the public domain 95 years after his creation. But it will only be the earliest version of the iconic character though, the one from “Steamboat Willie”. Disney has historically pushed very hard for an extension of copyright protections. In fact, the copyright extension act of 1998 was nicknamed the Mickey Mouse Protection Act. In this episode of The Briefing Rhianna Patrick finds out just what the implications of this are with artistic property law professor Jane Ginsburg. Headlines: 100 people dead in Iran after two explosions Hamas’ deputy leader killed in Lebanon Albanese launches Iraq War document probe De Minaur takes down Djokovic Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E3 · Tue, January 02, 2024
Boomer breakups: why are our parents getting divorced more than us?
Did you know every generation is seeing a decline in divorce stats, except for boomers? It turns out Hugh Jackman’s split from his wife Deborah Lee Furness of 27 years wasn’t just a flash in the pan and is part of a wider trend. In this episode of The Briefing Katrina Blowers finds out the why behind boomer break-ups with Elisabeth Shaw from Relationships Australia. Headlines: Five dead after Japan aircraft crash 5 dead in Ukraine airstrike ADF deployed to help with Queensland floods Interim Sea World helicopter crash report out A crocodile has leapt into a fisherman’s boat in Queensland Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E2 · Mon, January 01, 2024
The truth behind ‘manifesting’ and why it might not be right for you
Did you know google searches for 'manifesting' soared by 669% from late March to mid-July last year? In this episode of The Briefing Katrina Blowers is joined by cognitive neuroscientist Rhiannon Jones to find out if ‘manifesting’ actually helps make our dreams come true, if it’s just another word for goal-setting or if it could actually have a negative impact on our lives. Headlines: Thousands evacuated after Japan earthquake Hundreds of people have been evacuated from Queensland Denmark in shock after Queen Margrethe's announcement Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S5 E1 · Sun, December 31, 2023
A futurist explains what the big trends will be for 2024
It’s the first day of 2024, and some big trends are on the cards for this year. Democracies will be tested; AI will lead to major changes in our work and health; and we might finally move beyond the smartphone. In this episode of The Briefing we unpack what to expect in 2024 with futurist Ross Dawson. Headlines supplied by the Listnr newsroom. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E404 · Fri, December 29, 2023
Summer Weekends: Dilruk Jayasinha was never going to be an accountant
Welcome to our summer series of the Weekend Briefing featuring some of your favourite interviews from 2023! Dilruk Jayasinha is one of Australia’s most in-demand comedians. As we jump back in time to his last stand up show Heart Stopper we find out there’s more behind that name than meets the eye. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Dilruk explains how he made the switch from working as an accountant at a big four to becoming a stand up comedian. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E403 · Thu, December 28, 2023
The Briefing’s 2023 Pop Culture Wrap
Britney Spears and Prince Harry’s bios took the world by storm in 2023; Taylor Swift became a billionaire; and the Barbie movie got us going to the cinema again. In this episode of The Briefing Tom Tilley and Antoinette Lattouf give us the rundown on the biggest pop culture moments of the year. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E402 · Thu, December 28, 2023
The Briefing’s 2023 Sport Wrap
There’s one word for Aussie sport in 2023 and that is: Matildas! But that wasn’t the only big news in sport: we also saw a massive year in cricket, beating India on their home soil in an ODI; while the Panthers won the premiership for the NRL, and Collingwood for the AFL. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt and Tom Tilley talk through the moments that had us on the edge of our seats this year. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E401 · Thu, December 28, 2023
The Briefing’s 2023 International News Wrap
Nothing has made international news more in the last few months than the conflict in Gaza, but do you remember some of the other big stories that hit our shores in 2023? Tom Tilley and Katrina Blowers dive in on the biggest moments from 2023 like the Titan submersible tragedy from June; the wildfires that gripped the northern hemisphere; and how ChatGPT suddenly came into our lives. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E400 · Thu, December 28, 2023
The Briefing’s 2023 National News Wrap
2023 has been a big year for Australia. In this episode of The Briefing Katrina Blowers and Tom Tilley take us through all the big moments from the failed Voice referendum, to the sacking of Qantas and Optus CEOs, and the mushroom poisoning case that had the whole country talking. Headlines supplied by the Listnr newsroom. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E399 · Wed, December 27, 2023
A powerful description of what it’s like living with adult ADHD
There has been a rise of well-known Aussies, particularly females, announcing that they have been diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. Due to this rise there have been many conversations on social media about why this is happening, with many saying it’s just being over diagnosed or turning into a trend. We’re joined by Bridget Pringle - a freelance writer, mother of two and advertising professional from Melbourne who learned she had ADHD via a TikTok algorithm. So what’s it like living with adult ADHD, and what treatment or medication is available to make life easier for those who have learned they have ADHD, later in life. Headlines supplied by the Listnr newsroom. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E398 · Tue, December 26, 2023
Synthetic "forever chemicals" found in popular cosmetics brands
We took six well known cosmetics to an independent laboratory for testing. The results show that two of the brands contain PFAS, which are dangerous synthetic ‘forever chemicals.’ Find out which brands and how they respond to the results in this special report from Clair Weaver, Investigations Editor at Listnr. Complaints about PFAS in cosmetics should go to the ACCC (Problem with a product or service you bought | ACCC.) Headlines supplied by the Listnr newsroom. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E397 · Mon, December 25, 2023
Wonka, Mean Girls or Aquaman? The Briefing wraps your summer movies
It’s Boxing Day and that means there’s a good chance you’re heading to the movies. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt wraps of some of the biggest flicks of the season with Justin Hill from The Streaming Service. They’ll be talking everything from Wonka and Mean Girls to Aquaman to help you decide what to watch, as well as a preview of some of the big movies set to be released in 2024. Headlines supplied by the Listnr newsroom. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E396 · Sun, December 24, 2023
Tree pickles, live carp and KFC: Christmas foods around the world
It’s Christmas and that means there’s a good chance you’ll spend most of today in a food coma, even if you’re not religious. In Japan, there’s even a tradition to eat KFC despite the Buddhism and Shinto being the main religion. In this episode of The Briefing we chat to Gastro Obscura’s Diana Hubbell about some of the strangest Christmas foods from around the world. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E395 · Fri, December 22, 2023
Summer Weekends: Maria Thattil from Miss Universe to the Jungle
Welcome to our summer series of the Weekend Briefing featuring some of your favourite interviews from 2023! Maria is a queer, South-Asian woman, the daughter of migrant parents and a former Miss Universe Australia - who stands a petite five foot three in a world of 6 foot something beauty pageant contestants. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Maria explains what it was like to be told she wasn’t Australian enough to be Miss Universe, her experience on coming out on reality TV and her new memoir Unbound. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E394 · Fri, December 22, 2023
How to look after your mental health during the holiday period
In this morning's episode of The Briefing, we looked into how to manage difficult conversations with family members over Christmas. In this afternoon's episode, we turn the mirror inwards. For many people, this time of the year can be filled with stress, conflict or loneliness. So how can you look after yourself and your mental health through this time? On this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with Dr Michelle Lim from the Social Health and Wellbeing Laboratory at Swinburne University of Technology. If you would like to find out more about loneliness and strategies to help with mental health, head to www.lonelinessawarenessweek.com.au If you or someone you know is struggling and needs help, call Lifeline now on 13 11 14 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E393 · Thu, December 21, 2023
How to navigate awkward conversations at the Christmas dinner table
With Christmas just days away, plenty of us are feeling a bit of trepidation (or perhaps a lot) at the prospect of spending time with family members we might otherwise not interact too much with. Whether you're facing the 'body police,' coping with milestone micromanagers, or navigating the 'devil's advocate' of the family, in this episode of The Briefing Tom Tilley and psychologist Jocelyn Brewer have you covered. Headlines: Mass shooting at a university in Prague Judge in Bruce Lehrmann case to consider verdict NSW Police refuses to apologise following gay hate crime inquiry US man released 48 years after being wrongfully imprisoned Summer solstice: it's the longest day of the year Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E392 · Thu, December 21, 2023
Will you join the Coles and Woolworths boycott?
As public anger mounts over Coles and Woolworths’ super-profits during a cost of living crisis, Brisbane local Dylan Fragomeni is pushing for a boycott of the two grocery giants on December 23 and 24. But could this boycott create any meaningful change? On this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with Dylan Fragomeni, as well as economist and consumer expert, Professor Gary Mortimer, to find out more about the boycott, and whether better regulation is actually needed to force down prices. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E391 · Wed, December 20, 2023
Why are we rewatching Aussie kids' shows?
Seven out of 10 Aussies are rewatching TV shows from their childhood and it’s all part of a nostalgia trend. A recent study by Swinburne, RMIT University, and Australian Children's Television Cultures found that jumping back into old shows is a form of comfort watching. Katrina Blowers is joined by Joanna McIntyre from the study to find out why we are choosing to binge shows from the past. Headlines: New truce discussions underway between Hamas and Israel Trump responds to Colorado election decision Anthony Albanese to travel Far North Queensland today Christmas penis fractures warning Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E390 · Wed, December 20, 2023
Is today's court ruling the beginning of the end for Donald Trump?
The Colorado Supreme Court have just disqualified former US President Donald Trump from being listed in the ballot for the next election. They claim that his involvement in the January 6th, 2021 attack by his supporters on the US Capitol is a violation of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. Trump’s team have already come back, saying they’re going to the US Supreme Court to appeal the decision. On this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with expert in American Politics and Foreign Policy, Associate Professor David Smith, about what’s just happened, and what it could mean for both Trump and the upcoming presidential election. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E389 · Tue, December 19, 2023
Why Malcom Turnbull says King Charles' visit can't stop republic by 2026
King Charles and Queen Camilla are coming down under next year, making it their first visit to Australia as monarchs. But will it lead to a resurgence in republican sentiment? Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down former PM Malcolm Turnbull to find out what the impact of the visit will have and how soon he thinks we could become a republic. Headlines: Albanese urges not to give up hope of two-state solution in Gaza Evidence wraps up in Lehrmann defamation trial Your Christmas Day weather forecast Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E388 · Tue, December 19, 2023
Step inside the house with no power bills
Many of us have been hit with record power bills this year – and a predicted hot summer ahead is not going to help with keeping costs down. But what if there was a way to avoid energy bills altogether? That’s the promise of a new fully electric and sustainable Australian property in Perth that's won global home of the year at the National Association of Home Builders’ Global Innovation Awards in LA. On this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with LiSTNR journalist Alastair Kirkby to find out just how affordable a build like this is, and whether this will soon become the norm for house design. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E387 · Mon, December 18, 2023
It's hot, and that's bad for domestic violence rates
Australia is known for its hot summers and because of climate change we’re in for more frequent and intense heat waves going forward. An Australian study by Macquarie Uni analysed close to a million reported incidents of all kinds of assaults and found that as temperatures increase so too does violence. Katrina Blowers is joined by Heather Stevens who was part of the team who carried out this research. 1800 RESPECT Lifeline 13 11 14 Headlines: Cairns airport back up and running Brittany Higgins' former Chief of Staff Fiona Brown gives evidence Pope approves blessings for same sex couples EU launches probe against X – formerly Twitter Man accidentally crashes into Joe Biden's motorcade Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E386 · Mon, December 18, 2023
What really works to stop people dying on our roads?
2023 has seen a 6% rise in the deaths on our roads, with over 1,250 lives lost - and we're yet to wrap up the notorious Christmas and New Years period. So while we’ve all heard the safety messaging and seen the campaigns, why are we seeing an increase in driving-related deaths? And are we missing something when it comes to lowering the road toll? On this extra episode of The Briefing, you'll hear from LiSTNR journalist Sophia Funiciello about what we should be doing to improve the safety of our roads. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E385 · Sun, December 17, 2023
A witness tells what life is really like for kids in Gaza
UNICEF spokesperson James Elder is an Australian who has been working in conflict zones for the last 20 years and has most recently been part of humanitarian efforts Gaza. He says has never seen the level of intensity and severity of suffering by children before. In this episode of The Briefing, Katrina Blowers finds out what life is like for children on the ground in Gaza. Headlines: Major flooding incident grips Far North Queensland Pope Francis condemns killing of two Christian women in Gaza 2023 the deadliest year on Aussie roads in more than five years Aus Post Christmas parcel cut off starts today Sydney man wins Microsoft Excel World Championship third year running Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E384 · Fri, December 15, 2023
Why Marc Fennell won't share his opinion anymore
Marc Fennell is excellent at asking questions. From hosting Stuff the British stole and the Feed on SBS to a podcast series about finding the worlds hottest chilli, he can tell a captivating story. In this chat with Antoinette, Marc gets really honest about why he doesn’t want to share his opinion anymore and the moments in his career that changed his trajectory. Weekend List: Christmas wrapping paper hack Trashy christmas movies DYFM podcast episode 6 ways to boost your self-worth Antoinette’s tips on having a chips addiction Tik-toker @jonbernardk ethnic grandmother skit Helen’s Super green soup Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E383 · Fri, December 15, 2023
Festive not festy: how to avoid food poisoning this season
Did you know that one in five of us will face the risk of food poisoning during this festive season? While this makes sense given the large festive feasts and seafood platters often served on a hot summer day, what can you do to ensure you don't give the unwanted gift of Salmonella, E. coli, or Listeria to your nearest and dearest? In this extra episode of The Briefing, we explore the do's and don'ts of holiday eating, as well as debunking common myths often circulated at this time of the year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E382 · Thu, December 14, 2023
Was this year’s climate conference, COP28, a success?
The UN climate summit in Dubai has culminated with almost 200 countries agreeing to ‘transition away’ from fossil fuels. It’s been a hard-fought win after much back-and-forth over the precise wording with some countries refusing to sign on to ‘phasing fossil fuels out’. COP28 has also been mired in controversy with the president of the conference saying a phase-out of coal, oil and gas would take the world 'back into caves,' which he has since walked back from. In this episode of The Briefing, Michael Jacobs from the global think tank Overseas Development Institute gives us his verdict on just how successful this year’s United Nations Climate Change Conference has been. Headlines: Israel’s defence minister says conflict in Gaza could last months Far North Queensland on flood watch after Cyclone Jasper Aussies are buying compounded versions of Ozempic Neanderthal DNA explain why you might be a morning person Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E381 · Thu, December 14, 2023
Now she's cleared of killing her kids, what's next for Kathleen Folbigg?
Previously referred to as Australia's worst female serial killer, Kathleen Folbigg has finally had her convictions for killing her four children dismissed. In 2003, she was convicted of murdering her children Patrick, Sarah and Laura and of the manslaughter of her son Caleb. Though she spent 20 years in prison, she always maintained her innocence. In this extra episode of The Briefing, we explain the science of genetic mutations that helped to clear Kathleen's name, and whether she will be receiving compensation for the time that she spent wrongfully incarcerated. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E380 · Wed, December 13, 2023
As the last of the pandemic premiers steps down, what will their legacy be?
This week, Queensland’s long-serving leader Anastasia Palaszczuk announced her resignation, signalling the end of the reign of Australia’s pandemic premiers. Leaders of the states and territories became household names during the height of the COVID years between 2020 and 2022. People tuned in daily for their press conferences, their policies (and personalities) were the topic of dinner table conversations and they often found themselves splashed all over the internet in the form of Tik Tok dances or memes. In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with veteran political journalist Andrew Probyn about the big moments for the pandemic premiers and asking: what will their legacy be? Headlines: Cyclone Jasper leaves 36,000 homes without power Nations at the UN climate summit agree to transition away from fossil fuels Tesla is recalling more than two million vehicles in the US Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E379 · Wed, December 13, 2023
FNQ bunkers down and prepares for Cyclone Jasper
We cross to far north Queensland as locals prepare for the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Jasper. The category two system is expected to hit the coast later today, somewhere between Cairns and Hope Vale. The region is expected to receive 250mm to 300mm of rain in just six hours – and up to 500mm over 24 hours. We're joined by Helen Reed from the Bureau of Meteorology and Georgina Hill from Network Ten's north Queensland newsroom to get the very latest as the cyclone bears down on FNQ. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E378 · Tue, December 12, 2023
Want to understand our society? Look at the history of eyebrows
People have been doing things to their eyebrows for millennia; whether it’s plucking them, shaving them, colouring them or getting rid of them completely! But did you know eyebrows tell us a lot about society; from perceptions of beauty to socio- economic status to even reproduction! In this episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf and makeup historian Sara Long dissect why we’re so obsessed with our eyebrows. Headlines: Jasper Cyclone hitting Far North Queensland today WHO says less than a third of Gaza's hospitals remain functional Zara pulls ad campaign after calls for a boycott from pro-Palestine activists Seafood prices set to drop going into the festive season Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E377 · Tue, December 12, 2023
How First Nations cultural knowledge helps prevent bushfires
Already this summer season is proving to be dry, hot and dangerous for the risk of bushfires. And the future is looking bleak, with predictions that our bushfire season will increase in both length and intensity. But while we already undertake hazard reduction burns each year to reduce the fuel for fires to feed off, could we learn more from the cultural burning practices of Australia’s First Nations Peoples? On this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with former Emergency Management commissioner for Victoria, Craig Lapsley, and cultural burning practitioner Trent Nelson, to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E376 · Mon, December 11, 2023
Are people taking revenge on Coles and Woolies at self-serve checkouts?
Coles and Woolworths are witnessing a surge in theft, which is being put down to the cost of living crisis. Despite this, the two big supermarkets are raking in profits and facing an inquiry into alleged price gouging. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert asks Fleur Brown from the Australian Retailers Association whether this spike in theft could be shoppers trying to get revenge against Coles and Woolies. Headlines: Essential poll finds 57% of Aussies are financially struggling COP28 draft resolution drops historic deal to “phase out” fossil fuels Donald Trump says he will not take the stand in his fraud case Golden Globes nominations have been announced Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E375 · Mon, December 11, 2023
Why #FoxEyes, #BarbieBotox and #LipFlip could be banned
They’re the non-surgical cosmetic procedures that get spruiked and glamorised with hashtags like #BarbieBotox, #FoxEyes and #LipFlip by influencers on social media. These procedures can be performed by non-medical practitioners like nurses, dental practitioners and pharmacists, and include injectables and fillers, cosmetic dentistry, hair transplants, fat freezing, and thread lifts (to only name a few). But now a national crackdown is coming, with a regulator releasing draft guidelines that would ban or restrict many common dubious advertising tactics. On this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with the consumer advocate at Operation Redress, Michael Fraser, to learn more about how dangerous the advertising tactics around these procedures currently are, and just why reform is needed. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E374 · Sun, December 10, 2023
How Ruby Sait got into the 1% of foster care leavers who make it to uni
Many young people are struggling with the rising cost of living: rent, bills, groceries and transport. But imagine you’re doing it all alone, without the support of your parents or family. That’s the reality for young people who have grown up in care. And it’s a key reason so few make it into higher education. If you’re working all the hours you can just to get by, you don’t get the opportunity to study and break the cycle of poverty, irrespective of how bright you are. But a charity scholarship program is trying to change that. In this episode of The Briefing, Katrina Blowers speaks to former foster care kid Ruby Sait about her journey to university. Headlines: New migration strategy and foreign investor reform Annastacia Palaszczuk’s last week as Queensland Premier Royals release Christmas cards Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E373 · Fri, December 08, 2023
How to be an accidental influencer with Kath Ebbs
Kath Ebbs is an accidental influencer, they was scouted on Instagram when they were just 17 and since then has dominated the social media scene. Kath is a queer artist and actor and they grew up on the internet and their relationship with social media like many of us has changed throughout the years. In this chat with Helen Smith, Kath explains the importance of pronouns, how we can make the film industry more inclusive and the impact social media has had on their body image. Weekend list: Everyone and Everything by Nadine J Cohen Easy Red Pesto Gnocchi Antoinette’s ethnic mother cooking hack Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones audiobook by James Clear Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E372 · Fri, December 08, 2023
This Christmas, will you be carrying the mental load?
For those who celebrate Christmas, this time of year is sold to us as being all about togetherness, joy, gift giving and family – it's the most wonderful time of the year after all. While we all love opening pressies and sitting down to a Christmas feast, there aren’t magical elves running around organising everything – it usually falls on the shoulders of women. Ask any woman in your life how long they’ve been thinking about all the things that have to be organised in the lead up to the festive season, plenty will tell you it’s been bubbling away in the back of their minds for months. On today’s extra episode of The Briefing, hosts Sacha Barbour Gatt and Antoinette Lattouf are asking: why are women carrying most of the mental and physical load at Christmas? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E371 · Thu, December 07, 2023
How you are being tricked by dishonest influencers and fake reviews
The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission is cracking down on our online space. Two new reports flag major concerns when it comes to social media influencers disclosing advertising; and businesses commissioning and collating their own reviews. In this episode of The Briefing ACCC Acting Chair Catriona Lowe takes us through what we should be looking out for online. Headlines: New industrial relations reforms passed Heatwave hitting most of the countries east with temperatures in the 40s Alan Jones lawyers issue defamation notice over assault claims Scientists found a better way to grind coffee Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E370 · Thu, December 07, 2023
The link between 'premillennialism' and the Wieambilla massacre
A man has been arrested in the US over links to the deadly Wieambilla massacre almost a year ago, which saw two Queensland police constables and a civilian shot dead on a remote property. Their murderers; Gareth, Nathaniel and Stacey Train were killed in the resulting standoff with officers. Detectives will allege the Trains had been radicalised after discovering the idea of “premillennialism” - a belief system with roots in Christianity that predicts Jesus Christ will return to earth before the next millennium, sparking the end of times. In this extra episode of The Briefing, we take a look at premillennialism, and how an American came to be so influential to three Australians, resulting in three people being murdered. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E369 · Wed, December 06, 2023
Is your company in crisis? Make a woman CEO
If you’ve been thinking there are have been a lot of female leaders under fire lately, you might have noticed the glass cliff phenomenon; it’s when a woman is put into a position of leadership during a company crisis. Fortescue Metals chief executive Fiona Hick and the Australia Post CEO Christine Holgate have both had to resign after relatively short tenures and major issues at their companies. Now RBA boss Michelle Bullock and Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson have both just been appointed during very murky times for both organisations. In this episode of The Briefing Antoinette Lattouf speaks with Shivani Gopal, CEO of EllaDex, about what needs to be done to change this phenomenon. Headlines: Boris Johnson has begun Covid Inquiry Immigration re-detain laws passed FBI arrests man in the US connection to Queensland Wieambilla shootings Taylor Swift named Time magazine's Person of the Year Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E368 · Wed, December 06, 2023
Why Neil the 600kg elephant seal decided to invade human habitat
Last month, a 600-kilogram seal made himself at home in front of a woman’s car in Tasmania’s south, giving her the best excuse not to go to work. Affectionately known as Neil, the elephant seal routinely causes havoc when he comes back to the coast. And this isn't the only example of how urbanisation has necessitated changes in the behaviour of the animals around us - just think of the rebranding of the majestic ibis to the 'bin chicken', known for roaming our streets and raiding our rubbish. In this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with LiSTNR journalist Tessa Randello to get the scoop on a Tasmanian icon 'Neil the Seal'. You'll also hear Sean Dooley from Bird Life Australia, who explains the effect we've had on the behaviour of the ibis. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E367 · Tue, December 05, 2023
China: the world's biggest polluter is undergoing a renewable revolution
With the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference underway in Dubai, the world’s focus is once again turning to whether we’re doing enough to tackle global warming. China is the world’s biggest greenhouse gas emitter, but the country is also making strides towards hitting 2030 climate targets. In this episode of The Briefing Katrina Blowers speaks with Dr Michal Meidan, head of China energy research at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies about just what China is doing about climate change, and it might be more than you think. Headlines: Nowhere is safe in Gaza after fighting resumed A third immigration detainee has reoffended Brittany Higgins had her final day in the witness box Telstra to pay $24 million for overcharging customers Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E366 · Tue, December 05, 2023
Will you ditch fast fashion to save the planet?
How much do you spend on clothes, and how much of your wardrobe do you throw out each year? The average Aussie bins ten kilograms of used clothing every year, with the expectation that the fast fashion industry and a status quo of ‘quantity over quality’ will continue to push this number even higher in the future. But is there any hope that this trend could change in favour of more sustainable and ethically sourced clothing? In this extra episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by LiSTNR journalist Loren Howarth to tell us more about the current trends in our consumption of clothing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E365 · Mon, December 04, 2023
President or prisoner: Chas Licciardello on Trump's '24 presidential run
We’re set to be spending a lot of 2024 talking about US elections, with President Biden and likely Donald Trump going head to head again. Polls are hinting at a Trump victory, but with legal battles, bureaucratic clashes, and a dash of political intrigue, the path to the White House is anything but predictable. In this episode of The Briefing, Planet America’s Chas Licciardello explains to Katrina Blowers what we need to know before campaigning ratchets up. Headlines: Westpac down overnight Former immigration detainee charged with assault COP28 president defends himself over climate change comments The RBA likely to keep rates on hold Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E364 · Mon, December 04, 2023
This hand-held drug testing device could save lives across Australia
How do you think more accessible drug testing would change illicit drug use in Australia? A handheld device called the MicroNIR is currently being used overseas to identify drugs and assess their purity. It’s efficient, accurate, and cost-effective, and it could be a game-changer at festivals, clubs, and supervised injecting facilities here in Australia. But will it be used here? In this extra episode of The Briefing, we hear from Harry Fursman, a PhD candidate at the University of Technology, Sydney, and discuss whether this technology could help drug checking become more widespread across Australia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E363 · Sun, December 03, 2023
Will the world follow Australia in resettling climate change refugees?
Australia is the first country to offer climate refuge, after signing a new treaty with Tuvalu. The agreement could set an example for the rest of the world ahead of 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference. In this episode of The Briefing Katrina Blowers speaks with Tamara Wood from the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law about exactly what this deal means. Headlines: 1.8 million people displaced in Gaza National Health and Climate Strategy announced at COP28 Supermarkets under pressure to ease prices Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E362 · Fri, December 01, 2023
Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa is teaching you how to live a bad ass life
The world of self care is growing and behind the products and marketing push, are actual experts, who are building big followings as people crave support and direction -- and in some cases sweary entertainment. Enter neuroscience whiz, author and host of hit podcast Do You F*cking Mind, Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Alexis shares her tips on how to live a bad ass life. Weekend List: The Morning Show Season 3 on Apple TV She’s on the Money audiobook Antoinette watching people running Kmart sleeveless halter bodysuits LINKS: Listen to Do You F*cking Mind with Alexis Fernandez Follow @dyfmpodcast on IG Follow @alexispredez on IG See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E361 · Fri, December 01, 2023
Has Spotify got the music industry 'wrapped' up?
Everyone’s talking about Spotify ‘wrapped’, but is Spotify – and streaming in general – killing off the music industry? Subscribers received a message from the streaming service today telling them who their most-played artist was, alongside other facts about their listening habits over the last year. But how about as a society? With subscriptions and streaming now the norm, how have we changed the music industry over the last decade? In this extra episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Associate Professor Dan Golding, Deputy Chair of Media and Communication at Swinburne University, to find out if Spotify is harming or helping the music industry. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E360 · Thu, November 30, 2023
Mark’s life was 24/7 pain. Why couldn’t he end it in Australia?
Voluntary assisted dying is now legal in Australia, after NSW passed laws earlier this week. There are some differences between states; NSW has a different cooling off period, and allows the patient to choose whether the life-ending drug should be delivered by a medical professional even if they have the ability to self-administer. In this episode of The Briefing Tom Tilley speaks with David Springer who had to take his brother to Switzerland to die about what he thinks of the new laws, and Linda Swan from Go Gentle. Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14 Beyond Blue Support Service - 1300 22 4636 Headlines: Last minute ceasefire extended in Gaza Brittany Higgins breaks down during cross-examination Elon Musk slams advertisers saying they could kill X Investigation under way into British royals named in new book Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E359 · Thu, November 30, 2023
Why you're less fertile than your grandparents were
Despite our population across the globe exceeding 8 billion, several reports say that the fertility of both men and women has been decreasing since the 1950s. So what's going on? Is this due to changes in our lifestyles, such as our diet, exercise or the later average age at which we start having children? Or could our exposure to toxins, pollutants, microplastics and nanoplastics be to blame? On this extra episode of The Briefing, we hear from fertility experts Dr Manuela Toledo and Professor Robert McLachlan, to find out whether you are less fertile than your parents or your grandparents were. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E358 · Wed, November 29, 2023
What it's like to live in the nightmare world of OCD from the age of six
The stereotypes of OCD are hand washing and checking door locks, but for many people it’s the underlying thoughts that derail their life and steal their happiness. In this episode Penny Moodie, author of The Joy Thief, shares her darkest thoughts with Tom Tilley and explains how exposure therapy worked to help her. Headlines: STC issues apology over on-stage pro-Palestinian display Calls for the ceasefire in Gaza to be extended Annual inflation figure has dropped Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E357 · Wed, November 29, 2023
How much should we blame Coles and Woolies for surging grocery prices?
How can Coles and Woolworths claim to keep prices down while recording record profits?Our two supermarket giants have recorded rising profits, each netting more than $1 billion in 2023. With Australians buckling under cost of living pressure, families struggling to put food on the table, and interest rates climbing, households are at breaking point. In other words, “Up, up, prices are up” and “Every day high prices”. In this extra episode of The Briefing, our investigations editor Clair Weaver joins us to explain what’s going on with Coles and Woolies' rising prices – and what we can do about it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E356 · Tue, November 28, 2023
Why the government is apologising to thalidomide survivor Trish Jackson
The government is making a formal apology to the victims of thalidomide today. Thalidomide was a drug given to pregnant women in the 50s and 60s to treat morning sickness, it was then discovered to cause birth defects in unborn children. In this episode of The Briefing Katrina Blowers speaks to thalidomide survivor, Trish Jackson about what the apology means to her and her family. Headlines: More Israeli hostages and Palestinians released as ceasefire continues Update on Bruce Lehrmann defamation trial 41 Indian workers rescued from tunnel after 17 days Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E355 · Tue, November 28, 2023
The Albanese government is banning Nazi salutes. Here's why
The Albanese Government will introduce legislation to the federal parliament tomorrow officially banning Nazi salutes. It follows a decision in June this year to criminalise the public display of, and trade in, Nazi hate symbols. In this extra episode of The Briefing, we're joined by the Federal Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, as he explains amendments to legislation to be put to the parliament tomorrow will make the Nazi salute a criminal offence under Commonwealth law. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E354 · Mon, November 27, 2023
What really went down with reinstated ChatGPT boss Sam Altman?
Sam Altman was fired from his position as CEO of OpenAI and then four days later was reinstated. Altman is the darling of Silicon Valley, with Open AI now the hottest company in tech today, having released the ChatGPT chatbot and DALL-E image generator. In this episode of The Briefing Tom Tilley speaks with AI scientist Toby Walsh about who Altman is and what this latest saga tells us about what’s going on at the top of the tech world. Headlines: Gaza truce extended for two days Australia to ban disposable single use vape imports Bruce Lehrmann defamation trial update Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E353 · Mon, November 27, 2023
With the sky-high cost of living, has Albo's popularity paid the price?
Today’s Newspoll figures show Anthony Albanese is on the nose with voters. If an election were held this weekend, the ALP would lose six seats and face governing with a minority government. So what’s behind Albo’s decline? Is it just the Voice, the cost of living, immigration and border issues, being out of the country and interest rates? Or is Peter Dutton managing to make the most of key Coalition strengths, national security, economic management and immigration? In this extra episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Sarah Ison from the Australian newspaper’s Canberra Bureau, to sift through the latest Newspoll numbers to try to determine why voters are turning their backs on the Albanese government as the parliamentary year winds to a close. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E352 · Sun, November 26, 2023
Meet the Aussie bringing CCTV into space to tackle real-life star wars
An Australian start-up called HEO is bringing CCTV into space. The technology HEO uses is world-first and works at phenomenal speeds; doing everything from checking on the health of a satellite to de-escalating world conflicts thanks to its use in counter-espionage. HEO even has contracts with Elon Musk’s SpaceX. In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley finds out from Dr William Crowe, the Sydney-based founder of HEO, what’s going on above our heads. Headlines: Third hostage-prisoner exchange takes place Support for federal Labor in decline according ot Newspoll More than 80 arrests at world's largest coal port Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E351 · Sat, November 25, 2023
BONUS: An expert's warning about the future dangers of AI in dating
In the near future, experts predict everyone will have a personal AI assistant that'll be able to perform all sorts of tasks for you - potentially even finding and screening people for you to date... Before you've even interacted with them. Earlier this week, The Briefing brought you an episode about how dating apps are using AI at the moment, and how that could change over the next few years. In this bonus episode, you'll hear the full interview between LiSTNR journalist Micaela Savage and Professor Joel Pearson - a psychologist, neuroscientist and the Director of the Future Minds Lab at UNSW. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E350 · Fri, November 24, 2023
Genesis Owusu is 25 years old and already has seven ARIAs
Genesis Owusu is an award winning musician and artist, taking home 3 ARIA's just a couple of weeks ago including album of the year. Moving from Ghana to Canberra when he was 2 years old, since then he has become a trailblazer in the Aussie music landscape. In this chat with Tom Tilley, Genesis reveals how grew up with a confidence and sense of self that most of us spend years trying to cultivate. Weekend list: Tom’s pasta recipe Helen’s gratitude journal from Kmart Robbie Williams Doco series on Netflix Kris Kringle with Drawnames.com.au Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E349 · Fri, November 24, 2023
Cash and Carols: The surprising impact of music on your spending habits
What was once an American tradition has now come to signal the start of the busy festive season in Australia: the Black Friday sales, which are now underway and will last right through to Monday night. According to research by Roy Morgan, Aussies are tipped to spend a whopping $6.36 billion dollars over the next four days, with more than half of us on the hunt for cheaper Christmas gifts. While shops won't have to try that hard to get us in the doors this weekend and in the lead-up to Christmas, there is a sneaky trick they're using to get us to spend more. On today's extra episode of The Briefing, we're digging deeper into the world of Christmas songs and how they subconsciously get us to drop more cash during the festive season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E348 · Thu, November 23, 2023
Will you need to make a TikTok video for your next job application?
Have you ever been asked to send a resume via TikTok? Hilton Hotels Australasia has announced they will be accepting TikTok CVs in a bid to stay relevant with Gen Z. It’s also in a bid to combat resumes created with the help of ChatGPT. In this episode of The Briefing Katrina Blowers speaks with Dee Madigan about whether a TikTok resume will become the norm or if it’s just a flash in the pan. Headlines: Hostages to be released as Gaza ceasefire begins 12 people arrive in Australia undetected via boat Bruce Lehrmann confesses to giving 'mistaken' evidence to AFP Bushfires blaze in Perth as heatwave soars Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E347 · Thu, November 23, 2023
Could AI pick your soulmate?
Did you know most of the dating apps Australians swipe through every day are using artificial intelligence? From safety features to enhancing match compatibility, it looks like AI is here to stay- and it could help you find the love of your life. But how will AI’s role in the dating space change in the (near) future? On today’s extra episode of The Briefing, we hear from psychologist, neuroscientist and the Director of the Future Minds Lab at UNSW, Professor Joel Pearson about what to expect in the future of dating apps. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E346 · Wed, November 22, 2023
Horrific war images on social media could be giving you PTSD
The war in Gaza has seen tens of thousands of graphic images and videos proliferate across the internet. Overconsumption of this type of media can lead to secondary Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In this episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf speaks with Associate Professior Arash Javanbakht from Wayne State University about how to care about what’s happening without sacrificing our mental health. Headlines: Temporary ceasefire in Gaza Bruce Lehrmann takes to the witness stand OpenAI CEO Sam Altman reinstated Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E345 · Wed, November 22, 2023
"Earn or burn": why dozens of Melbourne businesses have been firebombed
Melbourne is in the grip of a crime war over the illicit tobacco market. Cheap imported tobacco, known as ‘chop chop’ is flooding the market and crime gangs want a slice of the action. Police say the battle for market share is behind a string of firebomb attacks on tobacco shops across the city. In this extra episode of the Briefing, we're joined by Alexandra Bryant from our LiSTNR newsroom in Melbourne to take a look at who’s behind the attacks, their motivation and who is making all the money out of the estimated $500 million illicit tobacco market. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E344 · Tue, November 21, 2023
One in six Australian men have sexual feelings towards children
One in six Australian men have reported sexual feelings towards children in the world's largest ever child sexual abuse perpetration prevalence study. Researchers at UNSW and Jesuit Social Services have studied almost 2,000 men and have shed unprecedented light on sexually abusive behaviours. In this episode of The Briefing, Katrina Blowers speaks with Professor Michael Salter about what we can learn from his study. Headlines: Penny Wong responds to China Navy diver incident Journalists killed in Gaza reaches unprecedented levels Meta, X and TikTok face crackdown on hate speech and deep fakes Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E343 · Tue, November 21, 2023
Boomers are spending big while the rest of us suffer
The cost of living is an issue affecting Australians right across the board, whether you're young or old, renting or buying, working or unemployed. Yet while we all feel the sting of forking out for a GP and rising petrol prices, new data shows Aussies under 40 are being hit the hardest by interest rate rises and rental pressures while Baby Boomers are living it up. According to Commbank iQ’s Cost of Living Insights Report, released today, Aussies in their 20s are cutting back on everything from clothing to groceries, while over 65s are spending more than they were last year on cruises and meals out. On today’s extra episode of The Briefing we’re joined by Scott Phillips from LiSTNR’s Motley Fool Money, to discuss what else the data shows us and whether we can expect a reprieve anytime soon. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E342 · Mon, November 20, 2023
$20,000 Sneakers: What Melissa Caddick's family has to give back
Melissa Caddick is the infamous financial adviser who orchestrated a multi-million dollar investment scam, and then disappeared in 2020. In the latest instalment of the Caddick saga, her husband Anthony Koletti has decided to walk away from ownership claims on a number of luxury items that were in Caddick’s possession. In this episode of The Briefing Tom Tilley speaks with investigative journalist Kate McClymont about this latest twist in the tale. Headlines: Optus CEO resigns OpenAI staff threaten to quit over firing of CEO New Covid vaccine rolling out in December 100,000 Queensland DNA samples to be re-tested Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E341 · Mon, November 20, 2023
Yoga over booze: the changing face of schoolies in Australia
Since the 1970s, young Aussies have marked the end of their schooling career by descending on beaches across the country for a week of drinking, partying and hooking up – an annual event known as schoolies or leavers. After making headlines for all the wrong reasons, police and organisers started clamping down on celebrations, especially on the Gold Coast. This year’s official event has gone so far as to ban booze altogether. But even with the changes, and with Gen Z drinking less than any generation before it, many teenagers are steering away from a week of debauchery and are instead prioritising quality time with their friends at more laidback spots. So has the face of schoolies changed forever? On this extra episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by the founder of Red Frogs, Andy Gourley, to dig deeper. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E340 · Sun, November 19, 2023
Inside Australia's vape addiction crisis: a 19-year-old’s story
The Federal Government has announced it will ban the importation of vapes and cut permitted nicotine levels under reforms set to be phased in from January next year. With a new survey of 2,500 young people aged 14-25 finding that 50% had vaped, with 1 in 6 vaping daily, it seems the reforms can't come soon enough. Tom Tilley is joined by Joy, a 19-year-old who started vaping at 16 to share her story, alongside medical psychologist Professor Claire Wakefield. Headlines: Ceasefire could be close in Gaza Australia wins the Cricket World Cup Taylor Swift postpones Rio concert after fan dies Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E339 · Fri, November 17, 2023
Why Clementine Ford is telling you not to get married
Speak now or forever hold your peace! Australian feminist writer, broadcaster and public speaker Clementine Ford makes the case against marriage. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf Clementine breaks down the patriarchal structures of marriage in a western society and how it never favoured women. Weekend list: Choc dipped dried mangos from Aldi Article Erewhon's Secrets by The Cut Antoinette version of a poke bowl Stand up comedy shows Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E338 · Fri, November 17, 2023
Resurrecting the Tasmanian Tiger: the science behind de-extinction
Ever wondered if extinct species could make a comeback? The Tasmanian Tiger became extinct in 1936, but an Australian researcher is working on bringing them back from the dead. Professor in Epigenetics Andrew Pask has opened the TIGRR lab at the University of Melbourne to work on de-extinction of the Thylacine. It’s partnering with U.S company Colossal Biosciences who’s working on similar projects for the Wooly Mammoth and Dodo. Today on this extra episode of the Briefing, CEO and founder Ben Lamm and Andrew Pask take us through how the science works and what it could mean for the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E337 · Thu, November 16, 2023
Real life Succession: who is Lachlan Murdoch?
Meet the man who is becoming one of the most powerful Australian’s in the world, Lachlan Murdoch. The Murdoch family are the owners of the huge global media empire News Corp, which was built by Lachlan’s father Rupert. Paddy Manning is an investigative reporter and has been researching the Murdoch’s for years, he joins Tom Tilley to unpack the very private life of the new successor Lachlan Murdoch. Headlines: Parliament passes emergency laws on asylum seekers A 12-year-old girl has been charged with murder A volunteer firefighter has died in NSW Hungry Jacks wins in Big Jack vs Big Mac fight Hard Solo forced to change name to Hard Rated Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E336 · Thu, November 16, 2023
Why you shouldn't just delete the spam in your inbox
Have you ever been sent a marketing email that didn’t have an unsubscribe button? Or maybe you’ve received a message from a company you’re sure you’ve already unsubscribed from? More and more businesses are getting caught out for breaching Australia’s spam laws- including Kmart, Ticketek and Uber just in the last few weeks. Today on this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak to Andrew Williams, CEO of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network, about what happens when companies don’t follow these rules, and why you shouldn’t just delete your spam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E335 · Wed, November 15, 2023
The hidden wave: why we need to talk about Covid again
An eighth Covid wave is gripping the country, coming in right before Christmas again! Thousands of people are still getting sick, with this strain being one of the nastier ones. Now now the vast majority of us are vaccinated, how concerned should we be? Should we consider getting a booster and masking up again? In this episode of The Briefing Antoinette Lattouf asks Professor Paul Griffin all the big questions. Headlines: Government to rush through asylum seeker legislation Israel carries out ground offensive on Al Shifa hospital Troye Sivan and Genesis Owusu win big at the ARIAS Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E334 · Wed, November 15, 2023
Shaking off music industry moguls one album at a time (Taylor's Version)
Taylor Swift is arguably the biggest pop star in the world at the moment, breaking all sorts of records with her new music and re-recorded albums. But why is one of the highest-selling musicians of all time releasing new versions of her old work? And what does it mean for the industry going forward? On this extra episode of The Briefing, we break down music copyright to explain how Taylor Swift is able to re-release her albums, and the reason behind why. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E333 · Tue, November 14, 2023
Why killers and rapists are being released from immigration detention
Last week the High Court ruled that 92 asylum seekers being held in detention indefinitely was unlawful, leading to their immediate release. Since, concerns have been raised about the safety of the community, with many of those who were kept in detention failing character tests, including a Malaysian hitman and a stateless Rohingya man who had previously served time in jail for child sex offences. In this episode of the Briefing Katrina Blowers speaks with Professor Mary Crock from the University of Sydney about why the High Court made the ruling, and the impact of the release. Headlines: Albanese government under fire over the release of asylum seekers New claims hostages held under a children's hospital in Gaza New stats reveal a cyber crime increase 'Matilda’ is Australia’s 2023 word of the year Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E332 · Tue, November 14, 2023
Doctors describe crisis inside Gaza's Dar al-Shifa hospital
Do you know what's happening right now at Gaza's biggest hospital? The Dar al-Shifa hospital is currently on its third day without power, fuel, water or food after a number of bombardments, while Hamas militants and Israeli troops clash outside its doors. It’s created a humanitarian crisis inside the hospital’s walls as doctors desperately try to save the sick and dying. On this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with Arunn Jegan from Medecins Sans Frontieres – or Doctors Without Borders - the independent international medical humanitarian organisation, who currently has volunteers inside al-Shifa hospital. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E331 · Mon, November 13, 2023
650 days in Myanmar jail: Aussie Sean Turnell's survival story
For 650 days Sean Turnell was held in Myanmar’s terrifying Insein Prison on the trumped-up charge of being a spy. In An Unlikely Prisoner he recounts how an impossibly cheerful professor of economics ended up in one of the most notorious prisons in South-East Asia. Tom Tilley sits down with Sean to unpack how he survived. Headlines: Optus reveals the cause of nationwide outage Eighty asylum seekers are back in the community Former British PM David Cameron is back in UK parliament Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E330 · Mon, November 13, 2023
The truth on why lying in political advertising is legal
We expect safeguards for advertisers to provide fact-based information that isn't deceptive or misleading. Sadly, when it comes to political advertising, the same cannot be said. So why is it that our politicians are allowed to be less than truthful when it comes to political advertising? And isn't it time that we rectify this issue? On this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with Independent MP Zali Stegall, who today is advocating for change by introducing a 'Voter Protections' bill to Parliament, to help stop the lies. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E329 · Sun, November 12, 2023
Whistleblower surgeon: why we should be worried about breast implants
What happens when breast implants go wrong? In this episode, we find out about every type of issue from pain and illness to “double bubble” and “waterfall” deformities. Katrina Blowers speaks with Professor Anand Deva about what we need to know if we’re considering going under the knife. Headlines: Penny Wong calls for ceasefire in Gaza Thousands of Aussies rally in pro-Palestine protests Latest poll shows support for Labor falling Barnaby Joyce marries former staffer Vikki Campion Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E328 · Sat, November 11, 2023
Who is the real Benjamin Netanyahu?
Benjamin Netanyahu is the Prime Minister of Israel; he's the country's longest-serving and most controversial leader. Currently he is responsible for the invasion of Gaza, which began in retaliation against Hamas' attacks on October 7. In this bonus episode of the Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf speaks with Guy Ziv, an associate professor at the American University about who Benjamin Netanyahu really is. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E327 · Fri, November 10, 2023
Jane Lu is the ultimate lazy CEO
In September 2010, with a handful of clothes to sell and a Facebook page for promotion, Jane Lu founded Show Pony in her parents garage. Fast Forward thirteen years, and ShowPo is a global fashion force, shipping to 120 countries and is rumoured to bring in upwards of $100 million annual revenue. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Jane Lu breaks down the highs and lows of becoming a fashion business powerhouse and what’s it like being a Shark Tank judge. Weekend list: Last Stop Larrimah on Netflix Britney spears memoir audio on Audible Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E326 · Fri, November 10, 2023
Who are the young Aussies still living Covid cautiously?
Australia is entering an eighth wave of COVID, with cases growing by 23.6% in the last reporting period. Most of us are getting on with life, but did you know there are still young Aussies who are choosing to live COVID-cautiously? Many of them are skipping out on events, wearing masks everywhere and rolling up their sleeves to get vaccinated with each new booster. As a result, many are finding themselves in conflict with their friends and families, who don't understand why they’re choosing to live like it’s 2020. On today’s extra episode of The Briefing, we’re speaking with Jonathon Papadopoulo, a young, healthy man who is choosing to live COVID-cautiously, to find out why. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E325 · Thu, November 09, 2023
How our medications are making fish less sexual and more aggressive
Pharmaceuticals in wastewater has been changing the behaviour of fish. Studies have found some fish are even becoming more aggressive and have a lower sex drive from exposure to traces of anti-depressants and ibuprofen. Katrina Blowers is joined by Ian Wright an Associate professor in Environmental Science to explain what’s happening in out wastewater. Headlines: Optus offering free data in compensation for outage Israel agrees to daily 4 hour humanitarian pauses Australia suffers biggest fall in income compared to OECD More Taylor Swift tickets on sale today Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E324 · Thu, November 09, 2023
Why our Miss Universe could be stripped of crown in finance scandal
A petition calling for Australia’s Miss Universe contestant to stand down, is gathering steam. Moraya Wilson, who is the current Miss Universe Australia, is the daughter of two bankrupt property developers whose companies owe more than $45 million to creditors. News.com.au has cited Australian Securities and Investments Commission reports that found companies run by Wilson’s parents, Anton and Melinda Wilson, owe the money to creditors following multiple company liquidations, including approximately $21 million to the tax office. Since then, it has emerged that Moraya is a director of ten similar companies which ASIC is seeking to have struck off the business register. In this extra episode of The Briefing, we're joined by Alex Turner-Cohen, a finance reporter at news.com.au who filed today’s exclusive. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E323 · Wed, November 08, 2023
What our future looks like without cash
Australia is rapidly becoming a cashless society. Last year only 16% of transactions in Australia used cash, while notes are increasingly getting taken out of circulation. But one country has already essentially gone cashless: Sweden- with cash business transactions down to only 8% last year. In this episode of The Briefing, Katrina sits down with Dr Claire Ingram Bogusz from the Stockholm School of Economics to find out what a future cashless Australia might look like. Headlines: Optus puts major outage down to "technical network fault" 90 people could be released from immigration detention G7 leaders call for humanitarian pause in Gaza Matildas and Socceroos have strike a new pay deal Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E322 · Wed, November 08, 2023
The Optus outage has exposed Australia's vulnerable telco network
Have you been among the millions of Australians unable to make a call, get on the internet, travel into work or operate your business today? The Optus outage has highlighted a glaring issue in Australia; our reliance on three telcos to operate and maintain our entire communications network. So is it time for a rethink? And what risks does this expose us to? On today’s extra episode of The Briefing, Sacha chats with cyber security expert Nigel Phair, to find out. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E321 · Tue, November 07, 2023
How could the Israel-Hamas conflict end?
As the death toll in Gaza pushes past 10,000 this week, what will it take to end the conflict? Western powers have been advocating for a two-state solution; Israel for the Jewish people and Palestine for the Palestinian people. In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley is joined by Bob Bowker, a former Australian diplomat who was stationed in the Middle East for four decades, to break down what he thinks of a two-state solution, and how he thinks the war will play out. Bob Bowker's book: Tomorrow there will be apricots: an Australian diplomat in the Arab world Headlines: Interest rates have climbed to 4.35% King Charles delivers his first King’s speech Albanese dubbed "handsome boy" by Chinese Premier Without a Fight wins the Melbourne Cup Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E320 · Tue, November 07, 2023
As rates rise, who is buying and selling houses in Australia?
The Reserve Bank has today once again lifted the cash rate by 25 basis points, up to 4.35%. It’s the 13th rate rise since last year, with many Australian homeowners struggling more than ever to afford their growing mortgage. Despite this, house prices are soaring to record levels across the country. Today in this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak with two young Australians - one who is buying a home amidst the cost-of-living crisis, and one who has recently made the decision to sell. What influenced their decisions, and what is their advice to you? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E319 · Mon, November 06, 2023
How we are being tricked into believing AI has human intelligence
AI today is often about faking human intelligence, but this fakery isn’t a modern phenomenon. It can be traced back to the very beginning of the field. It is one of AI’s original sins! Professor Toby Walsh joins Tom Tilley to explain the fundamentals at the heart of AI, drawing back the curtain to reveal the reality behind all this artificiality in his new book. Headlines: China’s President Xi Jinping meets with Anthony Albanese Police search for two people after a horrific crash in Sydney Five people killed in Daylesford pub crash have been identified RBA is tipped to raise rates Melbourne Cup facing less than ideal weather Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E318 · Mon, November 06, 2023
Why more Aussies are saying nup to the Melbourne Cup
The Melbourne Cup has long been known as the race that stops the nation. But over the years, crowd numbers at the iconic event have been declining as support for phasing out horse racing grows. Today on this extra episode of The Briefing, we look at the history of the cup and ask whether the Melbourne Cup does have a future on Australia’s sporting calendar. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E317 · Sun, November 05, 2023
Recycled water: why we should take the piss
We live on the driest inhabited continent on earth, so it’s no surprise water security is listed as one of the biggest challenges we’ll face in the next few decades. Cheap drinking water is a key factor in this conversation - but do we have the stomach for what achieving that will require? Katrina Blowers is joined by water policy expert Will Fargher to discuss the stigma of recycled water. Headlines: Five dead after car ploughs into Daylesford beer garden Polling shows slide of support for Albanese government Former PM Scott Morrison arrives in Israel in show of solidarity Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E316 · Fri, November 03, 2023
Rarriwuy Hick is bringing sexy back in her latest role
Rarriwuy Hick is one of Australia’s leading young actors, she can speak seven languages and she’s part of the Home and Away family Rarriwuy is back with an exciting new project Erotic Stories on SBS in a role like she’s never played before In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Rarriwuy explains the significance of the role and reveals something she hasn’t even told her parents Weekend list Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara Blackest Black Bite-sized Banana Pancakes The Shape of Dust: A father wrongly imprisoned. A daughter's quest to free him by Lamisse Hamouda Lessons in Chemistry on Apple TV Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E315 · Fri, November 03, 2023
Here's how to make sure your e-scooter battery doesn't explode
Over the last few years there has been an explosion in the number of e-bikes and e-scooters across the country. But amidst a chain of recent fires linked to malfunctioning lithium batteries, what are the risks? And do we need restrictions on the sale of e-bike or e-scooter batteries until we know more about them? On today’s extra episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Professor Matthew Burke from the Cities Research Institute at Griffith University to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E314 · Thu, November 02, 2023
We should say 'why doesn’t he stop': Minister for Women on Lilie James
The brutal murder of Lilie James at a Sydney high school shocked the country when it made headlines last month - but her killing was just one case among seven women who suffered violent deaths in October. In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley speaks with the Minister for Women, Katy Gallagher about what the government believes should be done to stop it. 1800RESPECT Lifeline 13 11 14 Headlines: Woman charged with murder over mushroom deaths Australia’s most wanted in Turkish police custody 20 Aussies escape Gaza; 65 still stuck A new Beatles song has been released thanks to AI Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E313 · Thu, November 02, 2023
Almost two years on, what’s the latest in Ukraine?
It once dominated headlines, but almost two years on, media coverage of the war in Ukraine has significantly dropped off. And despite a waning interest in the Western world, the war continues - so what’s the latest? On today’s extra episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by foreign affairs expert Dr Keith Suter to find out the latest on the war in Ukraine. Is there an end in sight? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E312 · Wed, November 01, 2023
How do you negotiate a hostage release in the Israel-Hamas conflict?
More than 200 people were taken hostage by Hamas militants when the group staged a surprise attack on Israel on October 7th. Those taken hostage included Israeli civilians and soldiers, as well as foreigners caught in the attack. Five of those being held captive have been freed since the attack, following calls from Israel, human rights groups and the United Nations for their immediate release. But who is managing the complex negotiations surrounding the further release of hostages, and how will the coming weeks potentially unfold? In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley speaks with Nizar Zakka, who personally experienced the ordeal of being taken hostage after being held in Iran for almost four years in 2015. Now president of Hostage Aid, he joins to explain how the process is unfolding and who is involved. Headlines: At least 320 foreign passport holders leave Gaza Bulk-billing expands to young and vulnerable Matildas cruise to the next stage of Olympic qualifiers Coles and Woolworths feature in Shonky awards Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E311 · Wed, November 01, 2023
Why cops want to silence Australia’s drill rap stars ONEFOUR
A shortage of opportunity and an excess of crime - artists ONEFOUR have risen from troubled beginnings to become Australia’s first drill rap stars, winning international success and recognition for their distinctive music. This is not, however, a simple rags-to-riches story. A new documentary ONEFOUR: Against All Odds follows the group as they try to capitalise on the viral success of their music, despite losing members to jail time and aggressive opposition from the police. In this extra episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by ONEFOUR's manager, Rick Simandjuntak, to speak about the group's music, and tell you why the police shouldn't be allowed to shut down artistic expression and that of drill rap music. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E310 · Tue, October 31, 2023
Is TikTok giving you an eating disorder?
Researchers have discovered a link between the advent of social media platforms and spikes in eating disorders. Over the last 20 years, people being hospitalised for eating disorders have jumped 400% with the biggest spike following the rise of TikTok. In this episode of The Briefing, Dr Veya Seekis from Griffith University breaks down the numbers with Katrina Blowers. Headlines: Israel takes responsibility for refugee blast The US to regulate artificial intelligence Justice for New Zealand Whakaari volcano victims Australia is in the grip of an eighth Covid wave Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E309 · Tue, October 31, 2023
Day of reckoning for mums whose babies were forcibly adopted
Victoria has become the first Australian jurisdiction to announce compensation for mothers impacted by the country's brutal historical forced adoption policies. Under the $138 million scheme, mothers affected by historical forced adoption practices before 1990 can apply for $30,000 in financial compensation, alongside counselling, psychological support and individual apologies. But what does the announcement mean for mothers impacted by the practices across the rest of the country? In this extra episode of the Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Jessica Steele from Shine Lawyers to explain the development, and what it means in the fight for justice for those involved. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E308 · Mon, October 30, 2023
What you need to know about the new STI morning-after pill
There’s now a morning after pill for men who have sex with men. Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis, known as "doxy- PEP" can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex and is effective at preventing syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Around 40 of Australia’s leading sexual health physicians have now agreed that doxy-PEP, should be considered for the prevention of some STIs among men who sleep with men. In this episode of The Briefing we speak with one of them - sexual health specialist at the Kirby Institute Vincent Cornelisse about what this new medication means. Headlines: FIFA bans former Spanish soccer boss for 3 years Former Prime Ministers sign joint statement on Middle East crisis Qantas to defend itself over claims of deceptive conduct Barbie among the most popular costumes for Halloween Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E307 · Mon, October 30, 2023
Matthew Perry - more than Friends
As sitcom show Friends goes from strength to strength finding new audiences 20 years after winding up, one of its brightest stars Matthew Perry has died aged 54. Himself saying no one would be surprised if he died early, he battled a lifetime of addictions to both drugs and alcohol. In this extra episode of the Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Katrina Blowers to discuss Perry’s career, his ups and downs, and what is legacy will be. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E306 · Sun, October 29, 2023
Exclusive: how a suburban mum became a radical sovereign citizen
An extreme movement of Australians who reject the authority of our government and believe they’re exempt from laws, taxes and the values of mainstream society has snowballed over the past five years. Known as “sovereign citizens”, they’re most visible at anti-government protests and came under the glare of national spotlight during the COVID pandemic. While some sympathise with the notion the government has over-reached into our lives and personal freedoms, sovereign citizen ideology is built on conspiracy and misinformation. So what happens when the ideology comes into the family home? In this exclusive episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley brings you the story of an ordinary Australian dad whose ex-partner transformed from a suburban mum into a sovereign citizen, turning their family life into a “living nightmare”. Headlines: Tributes pour in after Matthew Perry's death Israel extends ground campaign in Gaza Wallabies coach Eddie Jones resigns Matildas win against Philippines Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E305 · Sat, October 28, 2023
BONUS: A day in the life of an ASMRtist
You've probably come across ASMR content in your TikTok feed recently - content in which you can hear in highly detailed sound of other people eating, brushing their hair or whispering a bedtime story. Earlier this week The Briefing brought you an episode about ASMR and the science behind it - but what is it actually like being someone who creates this content, an 'ASMRtist'? In this bonus episode of The Briefing, you'll hear the full interview between LiSTNR journalist and ASMR Creator Jade Scarborough, aka ASMR Jade. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E304 · Fri, October 27, 2023
Australia's most loved author Trent Dalton still reads the critics words
Trent Dalton is one of Australia’s best known and loved modern authors. Unsure if it would sell, Trent went from book club to book club speaking about his semi-auto-biographical novel, Boy Swallows Universe. Now a national and international bestseller and Netflix series on the way, Trent is out with a new novel Lola in the Mirror. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Trent breaks down his character writing process and explains why he still reads the critics words. Weekend list One Four: against all odds on Netflix Vegan Palak Paneer with Tofu from Rainbowplantlife.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E303 · Fri, October 27, 2023
Tap, scratch, tingle - why we're so obsessed with ASMR
Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) is a social media phenomenon. From videos of people tapping on objects, to whispering bedtime stories, or even eating within millimetres of a microphone, many posts have hundreds of thousands of views. But is it just a TikTok trend, or can it actually help people relax? Many describe ASMR as giving them a warm, tingly feeling when watching or listening to certain 'triggers'. While not everybody experiences these reactions, many who do claim it helps them fall asleep, deal with pain, and manage their emotions. On today's extra episode of The Briefing, we hear from Professor David Alais at Sydney University's School of Psychology, and ASMR Creator Jade Scarborough, about what exactly ASMR is, the science behind it, and how it can help with relaxation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E302 · Thu, October 26, 2023
What have we learned from the model boycott of Melbourne Fashion Week?
Melbourne Fashion Week is coming to close, after a week marked with controversy following a dozen Black Australian models boycotting the event to highlight the fashion industry’s mistreatment of people of colour. Making headlines across the country and overseas, the public boycott sparked further action across the week, with additional models choosing to snub the event. In a statement to the Briefing, a MFW spokesperson said organisers "acknowledged and fully support" the concerns expressed by Black models choosing to boycott, and the safety of black and brown models is "paramount". A week after The Briefing’s exclusive investigation into the boycott, Antoinette Lattouf is joined by Jo-Anne Hui-miller, the former editor of Inside Retail magazine and diversity advocate to ask what lessons the fashion industry can learn from this moment. Headlines: Lehrmann facing rape charges Manhunt continues after Sydney woman's death Maine mass shooter still at large Matildas win against Iran Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E301 · Thu, October 26, 2023
Men rank mental health as #1 - what are we doing about it?
In Australia men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, a statistic that has lead to countless mental health campaigns aimed at blokes across the country - but how much of an impact do they have on that statistic? In a survey of almost 1,300 Aussie men, the Sax Institute’s Public Health Research and Practice journal found most rank their mental health as their number one preventative health concern, particularly those aged 18-35. As we head into Men’s Health Awareness Month, there is hope these new statistics show a shift in how Aussie men are looking at their mental health - but there is still plenty of work to be done. On today’s extra episode of The Briefing, we're joined by Simon von Saldern, CEO of Healthy Male , to discuss what we can learn from these statistics, and how we can keep breaking down barriers for Aussie blokes when it comes to their mental and physical health. If you are in need of support, contact Lifeline now on 13 11 14, or Men's Line on 1300 78 99 78. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E300 · Wed, October 25, 2023
Are you the one in four investing in crypto? It's about to get regulated
Cryptocurrencies are set to be be regulated – with the government announcing plans to bring crypto exchanges under the control of the financial regulator ASIC. Exchanges holding more the $5m worth of assets will soon have to apply for a licence from ASIC. Tom Tilley is joined by Stephen Jones the Minister for Financial Services who’s leading the charge. Headlines: Australia and the US deepen ties Inflation numbers rise 1.2% Matildas to begin their Olympics campaign Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E299 · Wed, October 25, 2023
Is this the end of the big Aussie festival?
Have we seen the end of an era of large-scale festivals in Australia? For a long time music festivals have been a key part of an Australian summer - but following the Covid pandemic they are facing a range of challenges, including increasing costs and changes in ticket purchasing behaviour due to the cost of living and weather events. In this extra episode of The Briefing, Dark Mofo’s new Artistic Director Chris Twite takes us through the reasons for postponing next year’s event, and Managing Director of Australian Festivals Association, Mitch Wilson, maps out what festival organisers need to survive into the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E298 · Tue, October 24, 2023
After the silence, Thomas Mayo has a new voice
On Sunday Indigenous leaders sent an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese after a week of silence was observed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples following the defeat of the Voice referendum. Thomas Mayo is one of the indigenous leaders who helped write the public letter and was a key campaigner for the Yes camp. Thomas joins Tom Tilley to breakdown the letter. Headlines: Released Israeli hostage speaks about ordeal Second bushfire death as fires continue to burn on the East Coast Museum fixes the skin colour of "The Rock" waxwork The world’s oldest dog ever has died at 31 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E297 · Tue, October 24, 2023
Gimme, gimme more: what we know about Britney Spears' tell-all memoir
Britney Spears has been in the headlines since she was 16; from global pop princess, to very public breakdown, to a battle in court to free her from a conservatorship she says she never needed or wanted. Tomorrow her tell-all memoir The Woman in Me will hit bookshops across the world, promising to reveal her journey in her own words for the very first time. So, what have we learnt already from leaks of the book? And what impacts will it have on pop culture and our understanding of the world of fame... and Britney herself? In this extra episode of The Briefing, we speak to entertainment reporter and host of LiSTNR’s The Streaming Service, Justin Hill, to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E296 · Mon, October 23, 2023
Who’s policing war crimes in the Israel-Hamas conflict?
With the recent escalation in the Israel-Hamas conflict, both sides of the war have been calling out the other for enacting war crimes. In this episode of The Briefing we look at what both sides allege, what a war crime is and how international law gets enforced with Professor Ben Saul from the University of Sydney. Headlines: Microsoft to invest $5 billion in Australia Israel has escalated their aerial bombardment of Gaza Britney Spears is about to release a memoir Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E295 · Mon, October 23, 2023
Behind closed doors: how companies pay to influence our politicians
Every day those who represent some of the country’s largest organisations meet with our politicians and public servants to try and influence government decisions. Lobbyists represent a range of interests - from mining to environmental causes, and everything in between - and while it’s completely legal, nearly 40% of federally registered lobbyists are actually former government representatives. Today in this extra episode of The Briefing, you’ll find out how lobbying works and why you should care about how it’s carried out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E294 · Sun, October 22, 2023
Would you let emergency services hack into your phone?
NSW Police are trialling technology allowing them to remotely access Triple Zero callers' phones so they can see what’s happening on the ground in an emergency. The GoodSAM app enables police dispatchers to turn on a caller’s camera and start livestreaming video, as well as pinpointing their location, direction of travel and speed. Privacy experts have said while the app looks to be an effective tool, there are significant concerns about transparency, accountability and openness, and the lack of a guarantee people’s data will be secure. Jan Fran is joined by Jodie Siganto from the Australian Privacy Foundation to find out more. Headlines: The Yes campaign describes referendum defeat as "mean-spirited" Israeli military intensifying its bombardment of Gaza China's agreed to review Aussie wine tariffs Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E293 · Fri, October 20, 2023
Monique Conti is changing the way we see female athletes
Monique Conti has taken the sporting world by storm playing for both Richmond in AFLW and the Melbourne Boomers in basketball. But this is something she had to fight for. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Monique explains how the Matilda’s have helped put the spotlight on women’s sport and what’s next for her AFLW career. AFLW 2023 season tickets here Weekend List I'm Glad My Mom Died BY Jennette McCurdy Audio book on Spotify Helen’s Summer skincare: MECCA COSMETICA To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen and McoBeauty SUPER GLOW BRONZING DROPS Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E292 · Fri, October 20, 2023
A music legend reveals 50-year love affair with Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House, an iconic building synonymous with Australia, turns 50 today. Iva Davies is the founder and frontman for Icehouse, one of the most significant and successful bands in Australia; he also played in an orchestra at the first performances at the then-new building back in 1973. In this extra episode of The Briefing, we take a look at how the Opera House has shaped our national identity, and take a deep dive on Iva Davies’ relationship with the building, going back 50 years. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E291 · Thu, October 19, 2023
Why are black models boycotting Melbourne fashion week?
More than a dozen Black Australian models are boycotting Melbourne Fashion Week (MFW) to highlight the fashion industry’s mistreatment of people of colour. From being paid significantly less than white models, the N-word being used by photographers, and hairdressers suggesting a “buzzcut” because “Afros are too hard to style’. Antoinette Lattouf is joined by model Nyaluak Leth to explain why 13 Black models have joined forces to call out an industry they claim is unsafe and unfair. Headlines: 20 aid trucks are expected to be allowed into Gaza today Lisa Wilkinson is suing network Ten over her legal costs Julia Gillard's ex-boyfriend fined $7000 for the sexual assault The unemployment rate falls to 3.6% Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E290 · Thu, October 19, 2023
Why kids need security at Jewish and Islamic schools in Australia
Guards armed with guns are an unusual sight in Australian public life - but not if you go to a Jewish school, synagogue or some other faith-based institutions. The additional measures are allowed because of special rules as a result of terror threats linked to conflicts in the Middle East, and white supremacist groups. And now the measures are taxpayer-funded under the Federal Governments' new $50 million 'Securing Faith Based Places' program. On this extra episode of The Briefing, Madeline Palmer speaks with Daniel Aghion, President of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria, about why these security measures, and why they are necessary. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E289 · Wed, October 18, 2023
The dirty little secret hiding in your protein powder
In Australia there’s no requirement for regular testing to confirm what’s inside your protein powder. The protein powder market is mostly unregulated and in some cases undeclared poisons have been found within the mix. Including heavy metals, pesticides and other potentially toxic contaminants Katrina Blowers is joined by sports dietitian Bethanie Allanson to break down why the ingredients list might not match up with what’s inside your tub of protein. Headlines: The US doesn’t believe Israel is responsible for Gaza hospital explosion Ticketek has found itself in hot water for breaching spam laws. Prime Minister Albanese has denied being asked to delay the referendum The US has been accused of making its own Bluey rip-off Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E288 · Wed, October 18, 2023
Why are women less likely to be saved by CPR?
Fewer women in Australia are trained and confident to administer first aid than men, according to an alarming survey by St. John Ambulance. Even worse, women are less likely to receive CPR in a life-threatening situation compared to men. So why do fewer women have first aid training than men, why do people feel less confident to administer CPR on women, and should this crucial life-saving skill become compulsory to learn for all employees across all working sectors? Today on this extra episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf and LiSTNR journalist Sophia Funiciello explore the problems at hand when it comes to the gender gap in first aid. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E287 · Tue, October 17, 2023
Fact or Fiction: the fake Israel-Gaza war posts going viral online
Misinformation and disinformation about the Israel-Gaza conflict is currently flooding social media platforms. Changes in the verification process for some big platforms has let doctored images, mislabelled content, fake videos and images of graphic violence spread rapidly. Katrina Blowers is joined by the Editorial Director of NewsGuard, Eric Effron, to explain how you can spot the fakes. Headlines: Airstrike hits Gaza hospital killing hundreds Aussie journalist Cheng Lei speaks after she was detained in China Netflix releases details about the final series of The Crown Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E286 · Tue, October 17, 2023
A heavy toll: why do we pay to drive on roads?
A recent report forecasted that this financial year, toll operators will rake in $3.7 billion in toll revenue. What's scary is that over 80% of toll roads in Australia (all of which are located in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney) are operated by the same company - Transurban. And what about those rebates that some drivers are able to get back from toll payments? Well, the government foots that bill... Which means those payments end up coming out of your pocket through taxes anyway. Today on this extra episode of The Briefing, Amelia Oberhardt speaks with LiSTNR Investigations Editor, Clair Weaver, about the issue with Australia's toll road system. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E285 · Mon, October 16, 2023
Meet the Australian teen leading the push to go nuclear
Could a Brisbane teenager have the solution to achieving net zero? 17-year-old Will Shackel launched the ‘Nuclear for Australia’ campaign a year ago, and has since launched a petition that’s received over 10,000 signatures and given evidence to a senate committee, advocating for a ban on nuclear power in Australia to be lifted. Will joins Katrina Blowers to explain what’s he thinks should be next for Australia's relationship to nuclear. Headlines: Fears Israel conflict could be expanded to two fronts ADHD diagnoses double in five years New sports are being added to the Olympics Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E284 · Mon, October 16, 2023
Behind the ballot: why did so many vote no to the Voice?
Australia has voted on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, with the result being firm rejection of the proposal. All states and territories, excluding the ACT, voted no - but what happens when we look deeper into the numbers? How much did socio-economic factors, your proximity to the city, or your cultural heritage affect your vote? In this extra episode of the Briefing, Amelia Oberhardt is joined by pollster Kos Samaras to analyse the nation's diverse voting landscape, dissecting the intriguing narratives within metro, regional and rural Australia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E283 · Sun, October 15, 2023
Indigenous No campaigner Warren Mundine reacts to the referendum
On Saturday the country voted in the first referendum since 1999 on a Voice to Parliament. The country voted with 39.4% saying ‘yes’ and 60.6.% saying ‘no’. The country has voted overwhelmingly to reject a Voice to Parliament. In this episode of The Briefing, we speak to one of the most prominent No advocates Nyunggai Warren Mundine about the result and what comes next. Headlines: 'Yes' campaigners say they'll continue to work towards Closing the Gap Thousands of troops continue to gather at the Gaza border New Zealand has a new prime minister Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E282 · Fri, October 13, 2023
Tennis nearly broke Jelena Dokic but she’s never staying silent again
Jelena Dokic has had an extraordinary tennis career and why she may have left the tennis court she hasn’t left public life. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Jelena explains how she felt lost after retiring at only 29, the impacts of being body shamed and how her first book and memoir Unbreakable changed her. Jelena’s new book Fearless - Finding the Power to Thrive reflects on everything that’s happened since. Weekend List BECKHAM on Netflix Who Killed Jill Dando? on Netflix Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E281 · Fri, October 13, 2023
Remembering Cal Wilson: an enigmatic portrait of colour and fun
Sad news broke this week of the passing of beloved comedian Cal Wilson, after a short illness fighting an unexpected and aggressive cancer. Cal, who was only 53, had a long and colourful career in Australian entertainment. Over the last 20 years she was a core character across the Australian stand-up comedy circuit, as well as a feature on many iconic TV shows, such as the original Thank God Your Here , Spicks and Specks and Good News Week . On this extra episode of The Briefing, Madeline Palmer speaks with artist Andrea Huelin, who painted the 2023 Archibald Packing Room Prize for her portrait of Cal Wilson, 'Clown Jewels'. Andrea shares her experience of painting the portrait, what she hopes the portrait meant to Cal, and what she hopes it will mean for her legacy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E280 · Thu, October 12, 2023
Can Malarndirri McCarthy convince you to vote yes?
Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy is a Yanyuwa woman from the Gulf country in the Northern Territory. Despite what the polls say she, and the Labor cohort, want you to vote yes in the referendum on Saturday. She joins Tom Tilley on the Briefing to take one last opportunity to explain why. Headlines: Voting for the voice referendum is tomorrow ASIO boss warns tensions in Israel could cause ‘opportunistic violence’ Trump is cut from Forbes wealthiest list again Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E279 · Thu, October 12, 2023
It gets better: expert tips on coping with a catastrophic news cycle
How do you cope with catastrophic news? The world is reeling watching events unfold in Israel/Palestine. As the death toll climbs on both sides, and information is released including the deaths of families and babies, it becomes more and more difficult to process the news. It’s heartbreaking no matter which side you support – the Palestinians face a massive military onslaught, and the Israelis have just suffered the worst attack on their homeland in 50 years. So how do you cope? In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Professor Ian Hickie, co-director of the Brain & Mind Institute at the University of Sydney, to learn coping mechanisms to help you navigate your way through troubled times. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E278 · Wed, October 11, 2023
Can Peter Dutton convince you to vote no?
Peter Dutton’s opposition to the proposal for a Voice to parliament has been a crucial factor in its declining support over months of referendum campaigning. The leader of the Opposition joins Tom Tilley for an in-depth discussion on his final reasoning for a No vote before Saturday, what he thinks a No result will mean for the country, and what alternative policies he suggests will work to improve the lives of Indigenous Australians. Headlines: Australian journalist Cheng Lei has returned home Anthony Albanese shows support for Jewish community Comedian Cal Wilson has passed away following a short illness. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E277 · Wed, October 11, 2023
The scoop on Goop and Australia's wellness industry
It has now been 15 years since the creation of Goop, the wellness giant established by actor Gwyneth Paltrow. But what exactly is wellness? And why all of a sudden has it become such a big business? Today we check in with the Therapeutics Goods Association and the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission to discuss the industry and the surrounding wellness scandals. In this extra episode of the Briefing, we talk all things wellness....and discover that sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E276 · Tue, October 10, 2023
What you need to know about Hamas
Israel has formally declared war on Hamas, the militant Islamist group that controls the Gaza Strip, following the groups attack on soldiers and civilians in Israel on Saturday. But what (or who) is Hamas, how did it come to the position it is currently in, and why has there been an increase in fighting in the region? Dr Mariam Farida, Lecturer in Terrorism Studies in the Department of Security Studies and Criminology at Macquarie University, joins Antoinette Lattouf to take us back to basics. Headlines: Hamas attacking the Israeli city of Ashkelon United Nations Secretary General describes the situation in Israel as dire Prime Minister Anthony Albanese moved to tears during Uluru ceremony Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E275 · Tue, October 10, 2023
From a holiday to a bomb shelter: Aussies stuck in Israel
The world was horrified at the weekend to learn Hamas militants escaped from the Gaza Strip and wreaked havoc on Israel, killing more than 700 people and taking an estimated 130 hostages. Israel has promised a military offensive the likes of which the world has never seen. Sydney couple Joe and Kerry Carnuccio are stuck in a hotel room in Tel Aviv. We managed to get in touch with them between visits to a safe room in their hotel. In this episode of The Briefing, we go behind the scenes of the conflict in Israel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E274 · Mon, October 09, 2023
Hedley Thomas reveals own personal tragedy behind The Teacher's Pet
The disappearance of Lynette Simms from Sydney's northern beaches in 1982 was the cold case that gripped both Australia and the world. Uncovered by journalist Hedley Thomas in the record-breaking Teacher’s Pet podcast, the investigation would develop into a dramatic trial that would find her husband Chris Dawson guilty of her murder in 2022. In this episode Tom Tilley is joined by Hedley Thomas to discuss his new book The Teacher’s Pet, which explores reporting on the cold case, and to reveals a family tragedy with startling similarities to Lynette Dawson that drove him to report on the story. Headlines: Anti Israeli protest in Sydney Israel preparing for massive military onslaught Robert F Kennedy Junior drops out of Democrat race to run as an independent Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E273 · Mon, October 09, 2023
What does the rest of the world think about our vote on the Voice?
This year, so much of our national conversation has revolved around whether our Constitution should be amended to include an Indigenous Voice to Parliament. But outside of Oz, what is the rest of the world saying about us? With arguments from the 'Yes' and 'No' camps expected to rage right up until Saturday's referendum date, today we look at what other countries are saying about our debate on the Voice - in particular those with histories of colonisation. Furthermore, if the 'No' case is successful, what could repercussions regarding our Foreign Policy look like? In this extra episode of The Briefing, we hear an expert in Politics and International Relations at La Trobe University, Dr Bec Strating, to hear about what the data shows and what it could mean for Australia after the vote on the Voice. Click here to find out more about the proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament. Click here to listen to the LiSTNR Blak Matters podcast episode 'Treaty vs Voice: How does New Zealand compare to Australia?' See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E272 · Sun, October 08, 2023
All Out War: the conflict in Israel explained
The Briefing brings you an up to the minute explanation of what has happened in Israel over the last two days. It began on Saturday morning with a shocking attack by Hamas militants on Israeli civilians. Israel has promised an ‘unprecedented price.’ Ali Hashem joins Tom Tilley and Katrina Blowers to explain what that may mean and whether this conflict could spread across the region. Headlines: Israeli-Palestinian conflict Referendum week is officially here Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E271 · Fri, October 06, 2023
Elise Loehnen went from GOOP to reclaiming her name
Elise Loehnen has achieved a lot! She has ghost written 12 books, was second-in-command at Goop and has now released her first book under her own name - On Our Best Behaviour: The Price Women Pay to Be Good. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Elise explains where the seven deadly sins originated from (and nope they’re not from the bible) and the pressure women place on themselves to be good. Weekend List Sex Education Season 4 on Disney PLUS Welcome to Wrexham season 2 on Netflix Send us your Weekend List suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast ! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E270 · Fri, October 06, 2023
The dark secrets lurking behind a cult cafe
People from all around the world travel to NSW’s Blue Mountains for the serenity. But did you know it’s actually home to a dark secret? The Twelve Tribes - which has been described as a cult - owns a cafe on a popular street in town. On this extra episode, we’re joined by LiSTNR journalist Loren Howarth to unpack what's happening there. You'll also hear from former Twelve Tribes member Matthew Klein, who shares with us his experiences and thoughts on the controversial group. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E269 · Thu, October 05, 2023
Is the recent Roman Empire obsession harmless fun or toxic male fantasy?
A TikTok trend created by Swedish influencer Saskia Cort, who told her Instagram followers to ask men how often they think about the Roman Empire, has unexpectedly exposed the way we think about gender and history, with some experts suggesting it’s an example of “white cis gender masculinity” at play. Tom Tilley is joined by Professor of Modern History at Keele University Dominic Janes to discuss why we’re all suddenly thinking about the Roman Empire, and why the answer might not be all fun and games. Headlines: This year is set to be hottest on record US President Joe Biden's administration announces new section of border wall King Charles III $1 coin revealed Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E268 · Thu, October 05, 2023
City of Love bites as bedbugs take over Paris
Paris may be the city of love, but there’s one local you wouldn’t want to share a bed with… Bed bugs. The city and host for the next Olympics in 2024 has been infested with bed bugs - the tiny biting insect that burrows its way into bed linen, furniture, carpets and rugs... And bites. In this extra episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by ecological expert Professor Dieter Hochuli to talk all things bed bugs – and to find out if it can happen in Paris, could it happen here too? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E267 · Wed, October 04, 2023
What you need to know about going off the pill
For decades rates of doctors prescribing birth control has remained steady - but figures show that since the early 2000’s, the number of those choosing the pill has dropped, as an increasing number of women express concerns surrounding the impact of the pill on weight, mood and fertility. But what actually happens to you if you choose come off the pill? Katrina Blowers is joined by Dr Phoebe Holdenson Kimura, a GP and a graduate of the University of New South Wales specialising in women’s health, to bust some of the myths surrounding what you should expect if you’re thinking of coming off the pill yourself. Headlines: Over 900K people have already voted In The Referendum There is no speaker in the house of representatives in the US Survivor of the death cap mushroom farewells wife Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E266 · Wed, October 04, 2023
Could you handle the heat of being a volunteer firefighter?
Bushfires are already creating havoc and hardship across Australia. With the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting a dry, hot summer, things are expected to worsen. We all watched in horror during the Black Summer bushfires of 2019, as firefighters across the country risked their lives to save Australians stranded on fire fronts. So how and why do people become volunteer firefighters? And why aren’t more young people signing up? In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by representatives from three states and a volunteer firefighter to learn what it takes to be a volunteer firefighter. If you want to find out more about volunteering, head to the following link for your state: https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/ httrfs.nsw.gov.au https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/ https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/home/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E265 · Tue, October 03, 2023
Attention: what we can do to fix it
So you’re having trouble paying attention - scrolling has replaced daydreaming, TikTok has replaced reading a book or watching a movie, and focusing on anything for a long time feels hard. If deleting all digital distraction from your life isn’t an option, what steps can you take right now to fix it? In this three-part feature series, The Briefing dives deep into what has happened to make us all feel so distracted, why it matters, and what you can do about it. In this episode, Jan Fran speaks with Jocelyn Brewer, psychologist, writer and educator, and Adam Guastella, Professor of neurodevelopment at the University of Sydney. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E264 · Tue, October 03, 2023
How gender-affirming surgery could soon be free under Medicare
Gender affirming surgeries reduce suicide, depression and gender dysphoria among transgender and gender-diverse people who need them. But they cost patients tens of thousands of dollars. In a historic moment for trans rights in Australia, an application has been made to get gender affirming surgeries fully funded under Medicare - and it’s estimated 47,000 people could take up the treatment in the first year. On this extra episode of The Briefing, we hear from the experts on the latest developments, and from trans Australians about what it means to them. Melbourne Uni’s head of Trans Health Research, Associate Professor Ada Cheung, and University of Southern Queensland psychologist Jaime Swan talk us through the evidence, and we speak to Tay, Ophelia and Stella about their gender affirmation journeys. Warning: This episode discusses mental illness including suicide. If you need help, contact Lifeline now on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E263 · Mon, October 02, 2023
Attention: why it matters
Are you having trouble paying attention? Studies show most of us are increasingly feeling more distracted and less attentive - but if we’re all in the same boat, why should you care? In this three-part feature series, The Briefing dives deep into what has happened to make us all feel so distracted, why it matters, and what you can do to fix it. In this episode, Jan Fran speaks with Adam Guastella, Professor of neurodevelopment at the University of Sydney, and Maggie Jackson, author of the book Distracted, on what the mental and social consequences are of ongoing decimation of our attention. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E262 · Mon, October 02, 2023
Property porn - how you could buy your own island
Private islands have always been fascinating for Australians and popular with celebrities. With several small islands in Tasmania and Queensland recently hitting the market for just a few million dollars, could they be becoming more attainable? Former Victorian politician Clem Newton-Brown has owned Picnic Island in Tasmania for 20 years and is now selling for $5 million. Richard Vanhoff gives his expert opinion in the sale of Hamilton Island, expected to sell for as much as $1 billion In this extra episode of the briefing, we take a look behind the fantasy of owning an island. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E261 · Sun, October 01, 2023
Attention: why we don’t have any
Have you noticed your attention waning? Texts, emails and notifications; podcasts, meetings and social media - while everyone is fighting for it, it feels increasingly like we have less attention it to spare. In this three-part feature series, The Briefing dives deep into what has happened to make us all feel so distracted, why it matters, and what you can do to fix it. In this episode, Jan Fran explores why it feels like her attention is disappearing and who is stealing it with author Distracted, Maggie Jackson. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E260 · Fri, September 29, 2023
Hannah Ferguson on feminism
Welcome to this special series of the Weekend Briefing, where Jamila talks to some of her favourite guests - old and new - about a single, fascinating subject. During this series you’ll hear from singers, writers, models, actors and change makers on topics as diverse as the interview subject themselves. Today you’ll hear from our final series guest Hannah Ferguson, on feminism. Hannah is the co-founder and CEO of Cheek Media and host of the Big Small podcast. She’s just released her first book, Bite Back, feminism, media, politics and our power to change it all. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Hannah touched on #metoo, the politics of gender, getting canceled and whatever happened to the girl boss. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E259 · Fri, September 29, 2023
Stranded in Bali: Why your travel insurance may not cover you
Going on holiday is one of life’s greatest pleasures. It’s a chance to let your hair down and blow off a bit of steam. While it usually pays to have travel insurance just in case of the unexpected, what happens when something does go wrong and you’re not covered? In this episode of The Briefing, we hear the story of a surfer in Bali who was left facing a huge medical bill after a horrific accident, and you hear the tips on what to do to make sure you have the right cover for your next trip. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E258 · Thu, September 28, 2023
Join the rat race with a tour of NYCs secret rat hotspots
Kenny Bollwerk has built over 240,000 TikTok followers and amassed millions of views of his livestreams showing some of the most rat-infested streets of New York City. Interest has been so great, the creator of ‘RatTok’ is now running free rat tours across the city, taking tourists to “rat hotspots” seven nights a week. He joined Tom Tilley to explain where he thinks the fascination has come from. Headlines: Clive Palmer spending $2m promoting the No vote British actor Sir Michael Gambon dies aged 82 AFL Grand Final parade to hit Melbourne today Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E257 · Thu, September 28, 2023
Young donors, where the bloody hell are you?
The top blood donors in Australia are older men – but young blood and plasma are needed to keep saving lives. Data shows young people are sporadic donors at best, and most don’t turn up to appointments. However, one young donor, Sam Ryan, has become a prolific donor after his life was saved by 22 bags of donated blood after an accident when he was 17. On this extra episode of The Briefing, we hear about Sam's incredible story and his message encouraging other young people to donate. We also speak to Red Cross Lifeblood to find out what they are doing to raise awareness and recruit young people to roll up their sleeves and give blood. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E256 · Wed, September 27, 2023
You can now join a national revolution calling out shit rentals
Jordie van den Berg (known by his influential social media alias PurplePingers) and Lauren Michaelides (known as Toilet Paper Australia on X) have launched a free database to call out “shit rentals” across the country. With the aim to better empower renters facing sometimes shocking rental conditions, Shitrentals.org has already received over a thousand reviews from tenants since it’s launch last week. Website co-creator PurplePingers joined Tom Tilley to explain why he’s taken his online activism to a new level, how the website works and what he hopes the website will achieve. Headlines: RBA unlikely to lift rates in October as mortgage holders brace for higher payments Jacinta Allan is Victoria’s new premier Qantas head faces awkward senate grilling Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E255 · Wed, September 27, 2023
How a brutal murder sparked the Canada vs India conflict
Canada and India are at loggerheads, with both nations in a diplomatic storm that looks like it’s going to get much worse before it gets better. Canadian Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar was assassinated in Vancouver earlier this year. But now, Canada has blamed the Indian government, saying it was a political assassination, and sparking a massive confrontation between the two powerhouse nations. In this extra episode of The Briefing, we're joined by Professor Ian Hall from the School of Government and International Relations at Griffith University, to break things down. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E254 · Tue, September 26, 2023
Dan Andrews, the Victorian Premier who ruled from the left and survived
Dan Andrews, Labor’s longest reigning Premier in Victoria, has announced he will resign from the top job. What was the reasoning behind his decision, what impact will that have on the future of Victorian Labor party, and what can other leaders around the country learn from his time in power? Tom Tilley is joined by Kos Samaras, Director of polling and research company RedBridge group and former Labor campaign director to unpack the decision and explore how the progressive leader held onto power for so long. Headlines: Jacinta Allan tipped to replace former premier Daniel Andrews PwC to announce findings of tax leak scandal and major overhaul Reddit is set to start paying its top contributors Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E253 · Tue, September 26, 2023
Dan Andrews resigns. What will Victoria make of his legacy?
Victorian Premier Dan Andrews has announced he’ll retire at 5pm tomorrow. He says he has no plans, and will take time to spend with his family. He led Victoria for nine years and was Labor leader for 13 years. His legacy will be mixed, with there being many who will say he was a brilliant but divisive leader. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by The Age newspaper's Victorian State Parliament correspondent Annika Smethurst to discuss the announcement, Mr Andrews’ future and what his legacy will be. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E252 · Mon, September 25, 2023
Inside the sinister new experiment to kill death row inmates
The state of Alabama is planning to use nitrogen gas to execute prisoners on death row, after a series of botched lethal injections. Oklahoma, Mississippi, and Alabama have all approved nitrogen gas for execution, but none have ever used it. Katrina Blowers sits down with Dr Joel Zivot, an expert on physician participation in lethal injection, to explain why convicted murderer Kenneth Smith might be the first death row inmate to die by nitrogen gas. Headlines: Home Affairs secretary Mike Pezzullo stood aside as inquiry underway Tentative deal reached for the Writers Guild of America Qantas pilots join calls for Chairman Richard Goyder to step down Lachie Neale takes home the Brownlow Medal and Wallabies out of the World Cup Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E251 · Mon, September 25, 2023
Why are we so blasé about privacy a year after the Optus hacking breach?
It’s been a year since the details of nearly 10 million Aussies were compromised in the Optus data hack. Past and present customers were left confused and frustrated, asking why big companies are allowed to have all our data if they can’t protect it properly. But with what seems like a new breach every few weeks, do we even still care when our information is compromised? In this episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf is joined by LiSTNR journalist Micaela Savage to talk about the current situation, and what you can do to avoid being hacked. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E250 · Sun, September 24, 2023
Cracking the whip on dating app safety
Popular online dating platforms like Tinder, Bumble and Hinge - are being threatened with government regulation unless they improve safety for users. The federal government is giving the industry until the middle of next year to develop and implement a voluntary code of practice to improve standards. This comes after an investigation last year by the Australian Institute of Criminology that found 75% of online daters had been subject to some kind of online sexual violence in the past five years. In this episode of The Briefing Antoinette Lattouf speaks with intimacy and dating app expert Lisa Portolan. Headlines: The Government releases the first Employment White Paper in almost three decades Voice referendum Newspoll shows No vote camp has risen Melbourne airport expecting a daily average of 100-thousand people this week The largest soil sample from an asteroid has landed Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E249 · Fri, September 22, 2023
Hugh van Cuylenburg on resilience
Welcome to this special series of the Weekend Briefing, where Jamila talks to some of her favourite guests - old and new - about a single, fascinating subject. Over the next two months, you’ll hear from singers, writers, models, actors and change makers on topics as diverse as the interview subject themselves. Today you’ll hear from Hugh van Cuylenburg on resilience. You might recognise Hugh’s voice from the very successful podcast the Imperfects co hosted by Ryan Shelton, and his brother Josh van Cuylenburg. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Hugh explains what resilience looks like in the modern day and questions how we become resilient. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E248 · Fri, September 22, 2023
What the end of Rupert Murdoch's reign means for us
Rupert Murdoch has announced he will stand down as head of News Corp and Fox, the media behemoth he created. While his son Lachlan will take over as chair of both companies, Rupert Murdoch will still have some involvement as he takes on the role of “emeritus chairman”. In this episode of The Briefing, we talk to Professor Rodney Tiffen whose 2014 book “A Reassessment” explored Murdoch’s empire and legacy. We analyse today's announcement to find out what it means for News Corp and the implications for media and news around the world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E247 · Thu, September 21, 2023
Why parents are asking the PM for porn passports
This week more than 40 child and women safety experts have signed an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling for an Australian porn passport trial. Research undertaken by the eSafety Commission has found 75% of 16 to 18-year-olds have viewed online pornography, and a third of those first saw it before they were 13. In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley finds out what’s going on with one of those who has signed the letter, Collective Shout’s Daniel Principe. Headlines: Murdoch steps down as Fox and News Corp chair New Covid inquiry faces backlash Taylor Swift academic conference to come to Australia Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E246 · Thu, September 21, 2023
Invisible poison: The vaping epidemic in our schoolyards
Vaping is a growing problem among our youth, with widespread accessibility and a multitude of health and addiction risks facing our adolescents. But it’s not just an issue for kids - it’s also a growing burden on their teachers. So we’ve spoken to educators from around the country, to get an idea of what it’s like dealing with vaping in the classroom, and how it affects their ability to do their jobs. In this episode of The Briefing, Amelia Oberhardt is joined by LiSTNR journalist, Micaela Savage, to talk about the dangerous vaping dilemma damaging our youth and their education. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E245 · Wed, September 20, 2023
Invisible poison: Vaping residue is the new secondhand smoke
New research has found vape residue clings to furniture, car interiors and walls and remains toxic for up to a month- even worse than cigarettes! Kids are particularly affected because they're more likely to put their hands in their mouths and it goes to their lungs. In this episode of The Briefing, Katrina Blowers gets the low-down from The Woolcock Institute’s Professor Brian Oliver about just how bad vape residue is, and what we can do to protect ourselves. Headlines: Albanese to announce inquiry into Covid response Alan Joyce could lose half his pay cheque Firefighters on high alert Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E244 · Wed, September 20, 2023
Why endometriosis is a big problem with little help
New research has found the endometriosis crisis in Australia is worsening. Endometriosis is a common, yet painful disease where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of the womb. In 2019, it was found that around 1 in 9 women aged between 44-49 were estimated to have endometriosis. Now, that estimation has risen to 1 in 7. In this episode of The Briefing, Amelia Oberhardt is joined by CEO of Endometriosis Australia, Maree Davenport, to hear more about the increase in cases and why more isn't being done to help sufferers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E243 · Tue, September 19, 2023
No campaigner Warren Mundine lays out his case against the Voice
Warren Mundine is a Bungulung man and one of those leading the charge opposing the referendum for an Indigenous Voice to parliament. He was the national president of the Australian Labor Party in 2006, before making the switch and becoming a member of the National Advisory Council under Prime Minister Tony Abbott. With just under four weeks to go until the referendum, he sits down with Tom Tilley to discuss why he remains adamant a Voice is not the silver bullet to fixing First Nation problems, and how campaigning for a No vote has impacted his own mental health. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E242 · Tue, September 19, 2023
Russell Brand: Celebrity, power, sex and what's next
In this extra episode of The Briefing: Comedian, actor, writer, podcaster and conspiracy theorist, Russell Brand, has come under fire. While Brand has been a celebrity for more than twenty years, over the past few days shocking allegations have come to light. While Brand vehemently denies he is guilty and insists all his sexual encounters were consensual, at least four women have accused him of rape and/or sexual assault. Jahan Kalantar is a Sydney-based lawyer who attracted global attention for his commentary on the Amber Heard/Johhny Depp trial. In this extra episode of The Briefing, Jahan discusses what we can expect next for Russell Brand. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E241 · Mon, September 18, 2023
Yes leader Noel Pearson on winning the soft No
Noel Pearson is one of Australia's most respected Indigenous leaders - fighting for Constitutional recognition since the Howard era. With just four weeks to go until the referendum, he sits down with Tom Tilley to discuss the Yes campaign's progress so far, and his fight to win over the 'soft no' voters. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E240 · Mon, September 18, 2023
10 years in limbo: The 12,000 refugees still waiting for residency
In this headlines-free extra episode of the Briefing: Meet the 12,000 people on temporary protection visas who are blocked from the government’s new pathway to permanent residency. That’s because they were processed and refused under the previous Coalition Government’s controversial “fast-track” process - criticised as a rubber stamping machine for refusals. But here’s the thing: all have been in Australia for over 10 years. They have families, communities, roots and children born here who’ve become citizens. You'll hear from sixteen-year-old Iranian refugee Tanya, as they begin a week-long sit-down protest in Melbourne, calling for change. If you want to learn more and sign the petition in support, click here . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E239 · Sun, September 17, 2023
Allergy nation: Why your risk is predicted to explode by 70%
It’s spring, so let’s talk allergies! Australia is considered the allergy capital of the world. Allergic disease currently affects more than four million Australians and that number is expected to rise. By 2050, the number of people affected by allergic diseases in Australia is predicted to increase by 70 per cent to 7.7 million. In this episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf speaks with Professor Kirsten Perrett, Director of the National Allergy Centre to find out why. Headlines: Thousands attend 'Yes' rallies Russell Brand investigated over sexual assault allegations Wallabies lose to Fiji at Rugby World Cup Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E238 · Sat, September 16, 2023
BONUS: Are we ready to vote? On the road with those saying 'Yes'
2023 Australian of The Year Local Hero and founder of Turbans 4 Australia , Amar Singh, is six weeks into his roadshow around Australia to promote the Voice. Travelling around Australia, he is hoping to to promote the Voice to Parliament to multicultural, culturally diverse, religious, and ethnic groups. Why does he care, and what has the reception been like? In this bonus episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf joins him for a leg to find out how his campaign is going, and what CALD communities around the country are telling him. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E237 · Fri, September 15, 2023
Sean Kelly on politics
Welcome to On Topic with the Weekend Briefing, a special series where Jamila Rizvi talks to some of her favourite guests - old and new - about a single, fascinating subject. Over the next two months, you’ll hear from singers, writers, models, actors and change makers on topics as diverse as power and influence, mindset and money, bodies and brains. Today you’ll hear from Sean Kelly, on politics. Sean is a columnist for the Nine papers and a regular contributor to The Monthly. He was a political adviser to Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Sean explains politics as a performance, the fracturing of the two party system, the entrenchment of attitudes and opinions - and what it means if Australians treat politics as a game. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E236 · Fri, September 15, 2023
Are influencers really influencing fashion?
In this headlines-free extra episode of the Briefing: How are social media influencers shaking up Australia's fashion industry? Content creators are certainly making a name for themselves in this space - from releasing collections with big-name brands to even creating their own fashion label. And their followers are eating up everything they're putting out. We're joined by LISTNR journalist Loren Howarth to talk about what effect influencers are having on the industry and designers who've been in the game for decades. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E235 · Thu, September 14, 2023
The Parenthood Dilemma: a big question with a complex answer
Should I have a baby? That’s the big question Gina Rushton grapples with in her new book, The Parenthood Dilemma. She delves into some of the existential issues: whether it’s responsible to have children while our climate continues to heat up at a rapid rate; as well as the personal: why, when faced with the potential of her own infertility, she found herself questioning how she thought she felt about children. In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley speaks with Gina about the challenges of modern parenthood. Headlines: Son of US President Joe Biden charged with gun crimes Jacinta Nampijinpa Price says First Nations Australians are not affected by colonisation Apology from multimillionaire who wants unemployment to rise Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E234 · Thu, September 14, 2023
R U OK? What you should say if someone isn’t
In this headlines-free extra episode of The Briefing: Everyone knows the impact of mental health on our wellbeing, our families, our jobs and our future. So today, we ask 'R U OK'? While we’re more acutely aware of the tell-tale signs and how and why we need to seek help, it can be hard to know how to check in with those around us, or for those struggling to know what to do. Asking if someone’s OK is a great place to start the conversation. In this R U OK? Day episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by Gus Worland, Founder of Gotcha4Life, a not-for-profit foundation with a goal of zero suicides, taking action by delivering mental fitness programs that engage, educate and empower local communities. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E233 · Wed, September 13, 2023
The summer ahead: Group therapy for scientists with climate anxiety
Constant exposure to dire forecasts and extreme weather events is taking its toll on climate scientists. It's meant scientists are now trying group therapy to deal with their fear and anxiety. In this episode of our Summer Ahead series Tom Tilley breaks it down with ANU scientist Joe Duggan. Headlines: Qantas loses over sacking baggage handlers Multimillionaire wants unemployment to rise US crab-walking prison escapee found Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E232 · Wed, September 13, 2023
Caught with coke? Why Canberra thinks it's no big deal
In this headlines-free extra episode of The Briefing: The ACT has passed laws that decriminalise illicit drugs. This means you’ll get the equivalent of a speeding ticket if found in possession of 1.5 grams of cocaine, meth or 1 gram of heroin. So why has the ACT gone down this path? Will it become a target market for gangland criminals? And what can the ACT learn from countries like Portugal that decriminalised illicit drugs more than 20 years ago? We’re joined by Bronwyn Hendry, CEO of Canberra-based Directions Health Services which has advocated for drugs to be decriminalised. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E231 · Tue, September 12, 2023
Are you using AI at work? If not, your colleague is
AI is here: already a third of employees are using AI for work, and in two-thirds of those cases, their manager doesn't know. Sectors like media, finance and education will see the biggest changes; with experts saying companies need to come up with an AI strategy as soon as possible. In this episode of The Briefing, Katrina Blowers speaks with Dr Kellie Nuttall from Deloitte about how much AI has already been adopted in Australia. Headlines: Marcia Langton denies calling No voters racist Over 10,000 missing after Libya floods Republicans order impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E230 · Tue, September 12, 2023
Jewellery, World Cup tix & VIP Lounges: What politicians get for free and you don't
In this headlines-free extra episode of The Briefing: What exactly are our politicians being gifted for free, and who takes the most? While gifts range from bicycles to sports tickets, and many aren't accepted, each year the accumulated worth runs into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. And currently they’re under scrutiny. Just today a survey from Nine newspapers revealed that 70% of Australians believe they shouldn’t accept free membership of elite clubs such as the Qantas Chairman’s Lounge. We’re joined by LiSTNR's Investigations Editor, Clair Weaver, to tell you about the hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of gifts being accepted by our politicians every year, and whether the gifts could sway policy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E229 · Mon, September 11, 2023
Chanel Contos: How an instagram post ignited a revolution on consent
Chanel Contos shot to fame when she uncovered thousands of horror stories about sexual abuse and coercion in Sydney’s elite private schools. Since then she’s successfully pushed for consent education to become part of the school curriculum. In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley speaks with Chanel about her new book Consent Laid Bare. Headlines: Labor’s $10b housing fund after deal with the Greens Pressure mounting over the future of Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk Apple to ditch iPhone lightning power port and cable Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E228 · Mon, September 11, 2023
Rubiales resigns: the kiss that kicked off a revolution in women's sport
In this headlines-free extra episode of the Briefing: After three weeks of intense pressure, Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales has finally succumbed and announced he will resign. Rubiales has dominated news after kissing Spanish player Jenni Hermoso on the lips without her consent, after Spain won the FIFA Women’s World Cup last month. We’re joined by Bonita Mersiades, a former executive with Football Australia and a FIFA whistleblower, to speak about what happened and whether this will be the watershed moment many are hoping for. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E227 · Sun, September 10, 2023
How Morocco is dealing with its biggest earthquake in 120 years
At least 2,012 people have died with at least 2000 more injured in the most powerful earthquake Morocco has suffered in 120 years. The 6.8 magnitude quake hit Morocco late on Friday local time, with entire villages levelled. Now the race is on to try and recover survivors from the rubble. Katrina Blowers speaks with Oumaima Azzelzouli, a journalist with Moroccan National Radio who lives in Rabat about what’s happening on the ground. Headlines: Luis Rubiales to quit after World Cup kiss scandal Tasmania is the only state voting yes for the Voice referendum Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis apology video Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E226 · Fri, September 08, 2023
Flex Mami on influence
Welcome to On Topic with the Weekend Briefing, a special series where Jamila Rizvi talks to some of her favourite guests - old and new - about a single, fascinating subject. Over the next two months, you’ll hear from singers, writers, models, actors and change makers on topics as diverse as power and influence, mindset and money, bodies and brains. Today you’ll hear from Lillian Ahenkan, on influence. Lillian, better known as Flex Mami, is a radio and TV presenter, DJ, author, business owner and has more than 169,000 followers on Instagram. In this special episode, Flex speaks about the commodification of influence, who gets to be a role model and why we all should think more deeply about who influences us and why. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E225 · Fri, September 08, 2023
Can the Wallabies do a 'Matildas' and save rugby union?
In this headlines-free extra episode of the Briefing: Tom Tilley's secret passion!! The Rugby World Cup begins in France this weekend – and the Wallabies head into the tournament after losing five lead-up matches. Coach Eddie Jones has picked a very young, inexperienced side, who he says he will have firing at exactly the right time. Tom Tilley and Sacha Barbour-Gatt are rugby 'tragics'! Australia was transfixed when the Matildas contested the FIFA Womens’ World Cup last month. Can the Wallabies mirrot the Matilda’s success and save a dying code? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E224 · Thu, September 07, 2023
Why South Korean teachers are at breaking point
15,000 people dressed in black attended an illegal rally on Monday in Seoul. This massive protest was triggered after three teacher suicides happened in South Korea in as many months. The first was a young teacher in Seoul who took her own life in July after expressing anxiety over complaints from abusive parents. Teachers are now demanding better protection for themselves amid growing outrage about teaching staff being mistreated, including being accused of child abuse for disciplining students. In this episode of The Briefing Jan Fran finds out just what’s going on with Korea Pro’s John Lee who’s on the ground in Seoul. Headlines: Anthony Albanese invited to meet president Xi Jinping in China Philip Lowe delivered his final speech 3,000 new entries for the Macquarie Dictionary Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E223 · Thu, September 07, 2023
Don't F**k with cats: Plibersek's plan to protect native species
In this extra, headlines-free episode of The Briefing: the federal government's plans to declare war on feral cats. Today is National Threatened Species Day and Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has released a plan to protect another 48 endangered species across Australia, including a program to eradicate feral cats. One part of the plan would see a nationwide night curfew imposed on domestic cats. We're joined by Linda Stoner from Animal Liberation who argues it's the wrong approach; and Jack Gough from the Invasive Species Council who says it's long overdue. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E222 · Wed, September 06, 2023
Is the honeymoon over for Labor?
Anthony Albanese’s personal approval has dropped under the 50 per cent mark for the first time since he was elected Prime Minister. It’s as Labor battles fires on multiple fronts including their Qatar decision; their struggles with the ‘Yes’ campaign; and the Defence Minister’s golf club controversy. In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley speaks with Andrew Leigh, Labor’s assistant minister for competition about whether the honeymoon is over. Headlines: Cheaper and more frequent flights under government's ‘open skies’ agreement August was hottest month ever recorded Spanish soccer star Jenni Hermoso files legal complaint over World Cup kiss Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E221 · Wed, September 06, 2023
Can democracy in the US survive another four years of Trump?
In this extra, headlines-free episode of The Briefing: Donald Trump refuses to acknowledge he lost the 2020 election, so would his re-election lead to the demise of democracy? The United States likes to think of itself as the ultimate democracy, but if Donald Trump wins next year’s presidential election, could the US electorate be endorsing his claims his loss in 2020 was NOT the work of a fair and balanced democracy? We’re joined by former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull who hosts the LiSTNR podcast Defending Democracy, to discuss the ramifications for the US democracy if Trump is endorsed as the G.O.P’s candidate next year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E220 · Tue, September 05, 2023
The Summer Ahead: Can our power grids stand the heat?
We're facing down the prospect of rolling blackouts this summer, with temperatures expected to break records. To find out about just where we’re at with our energy mix, we speak with Professor Samantha Hepburn who is an expert in environmental law research at Deakin University about what we need to do to safeguard our energy supply for the future. Headlines: A Senate inquiry will be held into blocked Qatar Airways flights Alan Joyce is out as new CEO Vanessa Hudson starts Australia’s largest coal-powered station to stay open past its closure date Spain sacks World Cup-winning women's coach Jorge Vilda Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E219 · Tue, September 05, 2023
Will Alan Joyce's early departure save Qantas from a crash landing?
In this extra, headlines-free episode of The Briefing: Qantas CEO Alan Joyce was due to retire in November, but made the stunning announcement this morning he was stepping down today. The news comes after a month of scandals, including facing an investigation by the ACCC that it sold tickets to flights that had already been cancelled. We’re joined by Flight Centre CEO, Graham Turner, and Helen Bird from Swinburne University to talk about Alan Joyce’s last day as the national carrier’s CEO – and what his legacy will be. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E218 · Mon, September 04, 2023
Behind the Farnham hit that's become the 'Yes' campaign's anthem
As John Farnham’s anthem becomes the theme song for the Yes campaign we reveal the story behind the song. Turns out it was written by a British musician after he slept in for a protest! Tom Tilley gets the story from Double J presenter Zan Rowe and also speak to political campaign analyst Dee Madigan about the impact it will have on the referendum. Headlines: No interest rates rises predicted William Tyrrell's foster mother pleads guilty to assaulting child Smash Mouth frontman Steve Harwell dead at 56 Burning Man still planning to go ahead with burn Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E217 · Mon, September 04, 2023
Emptying your wallet to fill up the tank: Why is petrol so expensive?
Around the country, drivers are forking out an average of $2.05 a litre for petrol, while some unlucky Aussies have had to pay prices as high as $2.38 a litre. In this extra, headlines-free episode of The Briefing, we chat with Chief Investment Officer at The Motley Fool, Scott Phillips, to find out why it’s so expensive, how long we can expect to pay a bomb at the bowser, and tips for making your petrol budget stretch further. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E216 · Sun, September 03, 2023
The dirty little secret lurking in your eco-friendly straws
Across Australia paper straws, wooden cutlery and cardboard tubs have replaced plastic in a bid to protect the environment, but new research shows they can contain dangerous chemicals. The chemicals, known as PFAS, are found in many “eco- friendly” straws and takeaway containers because PFAS makes them water resistant. In this episode of The Briefing, Jan Fran speaks with the commercial manager EnviroLab Group David Springer about just how dangerous these products are. Headlines: The voice NO vote reaches majority as support for Labor slides The Federal Government's Closing Loopholes Bill enters Parliament today Burning Man festival-goers trapped Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E215 · Fri, September 01, 2023
Milo Hartill on body
Welcome to On Topic with the Weekend Briefing, a special series where Jamila Rizvi talks to some of her favourite guests - old and new - about a single, fascinating subject. Over the next two months, you’ll hear from singers, writers, models, actors and change makers on topics as diverse as power and influence, mindset and money, bodies and brains. Today you’ll hear from Milo Hartill on body. Milo is a model, actress, and self proclaimed Fat Diva. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Milo talked about fat acceptance and the medical professional, the fashion industry’s token attempts at size inclusivity and why fatphobia is alive and well in Australia See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E214 · Thu, August 31, 2023
We’re all angry at Qantas, and the backlash seems to be working
Skyrocketing ticket prices, massive profits and soaring pay packets. What’s with Qantas? Qantas boss Alan Joyce faced a parliamentary grilling this week, but was unconvincing in his defence of Qantas’ huge profits, not to mention his huge payslip. In this episode of the Briefing, Tom interviews Senator Jane Hume, one of the MPs confronting Mr Joyce to find out why the Albanese government is hellbent on stopping airlines like Qatar from increasing flight numbers. Is it just a cozy deal with the national airline, or a genuine attempt to protect “national interests” Headlines: Qantas under fire Trump pleads "not guilty" in Georgia House prices up again Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E213 · Thu, August 31, 2023
BONUS: We have a date to vote on the Voice - what can we expect next?
The Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, has officially announced that the country will go to the polls on Saturday, October 14th to vote on both the constitutional recognition of First Nations Australians and the creation of a Voice to Parliament. Now that we know the date we'll be voting, what can we expect for the next six weeks of the Yes and No campaigns, and what do you need to know before you vote? This week on Blak Matters Teela Reid is joined by John Paul Janke, co-host of NITV flagship Indigenous news and current affairs show 'The Point', to take us through what we can expect before we're asked to cast our vote. For more information on the referendum and your voting requirements check out the Australian Electoral Commission FAQ page here . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E212 · Wed, August 30, 2023
The truth about domestic violence: What you should do if you see it
On today’s episode The Briefing continues our focus on what you might not know about domestic violence. Today’s episode is more about you and what can you do. Antoinette Lattouf sits down with Emily Maguire, CEO of Respect Victoria on how to spot an abusive relationship and help a friend or relative who's in one. *Content Warning* This episode includes details of domestic violence including sexual violence. 1800RESPECT Lifeline 13 11 14 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E211 · Tue, August 29, 2023
The truth about domestic violence: Do our support services actually work?
On today’s episode, The Briefing continues our focus on what you might not know about domestic violence. Antoinette Lattouf sits down with the Assistant Commissioner of NSW Police, Stuart Smith to discuss what tools and strategies police across the country are engaging in to fight domestic violence. Emily Dale from the national domestic violence advocacy group Full Stop Australia also joins to unpack what strategies government and police are missing, and what the focus needs to be going forward. *Content Warning* This episode includes details of domestic violence including sexual violence. 1800RESPECT Lifeline 13 11 14 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E210 · Mon, August 28, 2023
The truth about domestic violence: When police become perpetrators
You’ve may have noticed there’s been more of a push in recent years to help people better identify domestic violence in all its forms, and in particular to encourage victims to report incidents of domestic and sexual violence to police. But what happens when your perpetrator is a police officer? Today we speak to a woman we’re calling Audrey. She’s chosen to share her experience for the first time, because she thinks serious questions need to be asked about how good police are at policing themselves when it comes to family violence. *Content Warning* This episode includes details of domestic violence including sexual violence. 1800RESPECT Lifeline 13 11 14 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E209 · Sun, August 27, 2023
The truth about domestic violence: Teens, porn and choking
When it comes to crime trends in Australia – domestic and sexual violence tops the list. This week on the Briefing Antoinette Lattouf leads a special investigation into domestic violence challenging the stereotypes facing the issue. We're joined by LiSNTR's Investigations Editor Clair Weaver, victim survivor Monique* and founder and CEO of the Lokahi Foundation Rachael Natoli. *Content Warning* This episode includes details of domestic violence including sexual violence. 1800RESPECT Lifeline 13 11 14 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E208 · Fri, August 25, 2023
Thomas Mayo on the Voice
Welcome to On Topic with the Weekend Briefing, a special series where Jamila Rizvi talks to some of her favourite guests - old and new - about a single, fascinating subject. Over the next two months, you’ll hear from singers, writers, models, actors and change makers on topics as diverse as power and influence, mindset and money, bodies and brains. Today you’ll hear from Thomas Mayo, a Torres Strait Islander man who was born on Larrakia country in Darwin. Following the Uluru convention, Thomas was entrusted to carry the sacred canvas of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Thomas explains the upcoming referendum, his multi-year journey around the country to garner support and why he is boldly making the case for yes. For more information www.yes23.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E207 · Thu, August 24, 2023
Equity Mates reveal simple tips on how to grow your money
This is an episode future you will thank you for. Investing in the stock market seems too complicated and risky for many young people, but the founders of Equity Mates have a simple four-part strategy that will help make you wealthier. In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley explores the strategy with the hosts of Equity Mates, Alec Renehan and Bryce Leske. The new book is called Don't stress, just invest: It's time to set up your investments and get on with your life. Headlines: Putin speaks after Wagner boss death Malka Leifer sentenced to 15 years Qantas posts record profits Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E206 · Wed, August 23, 2023
The Summer Ahead: What the heat does to your body
July 2023 was the hottest month on the planet in 120,000 years. In this episode of The Briefing, we speak with Jeff Goodell whose new book is The Heat Will Kill You First: Life and Death on a Scorched Planet. He explains what heat does to human beings... and the reality we face in a warming world. Headlines: Wagner boss reportedly killed in plane crash India lands a rocket on the moon Fyre festival is back Sam Kerr football academies to open next year Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E205 · Tue, August 22, 2023
Why I met the neo-Nazis who firebombed my family's restaurant
Crispian Chan is a Chinese-Australian who grew up in Perth. His parents ran a Chinese restaurant until it was firebombed in the late 1980s. It turns out it was a coordinated race-based attack by neo-Nazis. In this episode of The Briefing, Crispian chats to Tom about how the attack impacted the Chan family, and why he went in search of the perpetrators almost 40 years later. The search led to some incredible discoveries. Headlines: The Voice referendum to be held October 14 Tax fraudster Adam Cranston jailed for 15 years The Murray Darling basin plan is being rewritten Theft at Coles up 20% Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E204 · Mon, August 21, 2023
Have the Greens forced the government into rental caps?
The Greens are putting lots of pressure on Labor about housing. The party is demanding a cap on rental increases. Are they reading the room or proposing impossible ideas? In this episode of The Briefing, Tom Tilley interviews Max Chandler-Mather, Greens Federal housing spokesperson. Want to stop your rent going up? Find out if the Greens can actually negotiate a freeze on rents to help the millions of Australians avoid even more financial stress. Headlines: UK nurse who killed 7 babies sentenced Qantas hit with lawsuit over cancelled Covid flights Spanish soccer chief apologises for kissing a player Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E203 · Sun, August 20, 2023
Modern slavery: Hiding in plain sight
When you hear the word ‘slavery,’ you probably get images in your head of pre-civil war America. But it’s happening right now here in 21st century Australia. On today’s Briefing, Katrina’s looking into modern day slavery and the victims who are hiding in plain sight, how to spot a situation where slavery might be taking place and what you should do if you suspect it’s going on. We're joined by slavery survivor Moe Turaga who had his passport confiscated after he arrived in Australia from Fiji and was then forced to work on a farm without pay; and Louise Burton who’s the CEO of the Sisters of Charity Foundation which helps victims of slavery in Australia. In this episode of the Briefing, modern slavery: hiding in plain sight. Headlines: Spain win the Women’s World Cup Wallaroos players have called out Rugby Australia Australia’s population to grow at slowest rate since Federation Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E202 · Fri, August 18, 2023
Elly Desmarchelier on access
Welcome to On Topic with the Weekend Briefing, a special series where Jamila Rizvi talks to some of her favourite guests - old and new - about a single, fascinating subject. Over the next two months, you’ll hear from singers, writers, models, actors and change makers on topics as diverse as power and influence, mindset and money, bodies and brains. Today you’ll hear from Elly Desmarchelier, on access. Elly is a disability rights advocate who is determined to make change for the one in five Australians who live with disability. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Elly explains how people with disability are left out of important conversations and why the NDIS cannot be the answer to every medical funding challenge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E201 · Thu, August 17, 2023
What role should brands like Qantas play in politics?
Qantas has thrown its weight behind the Yes campaign for an Indigenous Voice to parliament. We saw it with marriage equality, Black Lives Matter and now The Voice. Antionette Latouff sits down with creative director and a Labor strategist Dee Madigan to discuss how corporates play in politics. Headlines: Hillsong Founder cleared of cover up Australia to bid for men's Soccer world cup 2034 Michael Parkinson dies age 88 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E200 · Wed, August 16, 2023
Sam Kerr's big call after the match
The Matildas have missed out on the World Cup final. We speak with Johnny Keko who’s been on the ground about all the twists and turns of the tournament so far, the emotions at the game last night and what we can expect for Saturday’s play off for 3rd. Headlines: Thousands storm barricades at Federation Square Swimming Australia threatened with expulsion Found surfers release video Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E199 · Tue, August 15, 2023
Matilda-nomics: How celebrity and money will change the game
Matildas v France World Cup match on Saturday night was watched live by 4.17 million Australian TV viewers. Eclipsing NRL and State of Origin finals, it was a watershed moment for women’s sports in Australia. So what does this mean for the future of women's sport? Tom Tilley sits down with economist Tim Harcourt to find out. Headlines: Matildas to play England in the world cup semi-final Donald Trump has been indicted in Georgia Four Aussie surfers found alive Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E198 · Mon, August 14, 2023
Secrets We Keep: How Amelia uncovered her mum's hidden past
Journalist, Amelia Oberhardt, thought she knew her mum, until she died. At her mum’s wake, Oberhardt discovered a photo of her mother as a teenager, wearing a wedding ring, standing beside a man she didn't know and cuddling an unknown baby. In this episode of the Briefing, Katrina sits down with Amelia to discover how she felt when she discovered her family and her family’s story was not what she believed. Headlines: Four Aussies missing at sea in Indonesia 45-year-old arrested over plane turnback One Nation has dumped Mark Latham Woman who cooked fatal mushroom lunch gives statement Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E197 · Sun, August 13, 2023
History revised: Women were warrior hunters, not homemakers
Sharpen your spears ladies! Research has debunked the hunter-gatherer theory finding a high number of our female ancestors used to hunt too. A group of anthropologists from Washington and Seattle Pacific universities analysed 63 modern hunter-gatherer societies, including 14 in Australia and found women hunted in nearly 80 per cent of them. This includes hunting for big game - and they left the kids behind. It's thought early anthropological work was carried out by men who have inflated the importance of men's roles and that's why this wasn't uncovered until now. Headlines: We could have a Matildas public holiday! Hawaii wildfire death toll rises Hope Julian Assange could be brought to Australia Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E196 · Fri, August 11, 2023
Kemi Nekvapil on power
Welcome to On Topic with the Weekend Briefing, a special series where Jamila Rizvi talks to some of her favourite guests - old and new - about a single, fascinating subject. Over the next two months, you’ll hear from singers, writers, models, actors and change makers on topics as diverse as power and influence, mindset and money, bodies and brains. Today you’ll hear from Kemi Nekvapil, on power. Kemi is a coach, speaker and author. She teaches people all over Australia and the world how to understand and embrace their power. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Kemi explains how to recognise you’re worthy without having to prove it, why presence is more important than false positivity and how to step into and how to step into your power. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E195 · Thu, August 10, 2023
Death cap death trap: Why wild mushrooms can kill
Australia has been gripped by a story out of Victoria where three people died after eating a meal of wild mushrooms. Police investigations are continuing. One man remains in a critical condition in hospital. So, how prevalent are deadly mushrooms? What should we look out for? What happens when you're poisoned? And how often are people hospitalised after consuming mushrooms. In this episode of The Briefing, we're joined by Diego Bonetto "The Weedy One" Forager to take us on a journey of mushroom discovery. Headlines: Disaster declaration for Hawaii with at least 36 dead following wildfires Six tourists successfully fly to space for first time Matilda's play France on Saturday Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E194 · Wed, August 09, 2023
The Summer Ahead: What you need to know about this bushfire season
July 2023 was Earth's hottest month on record - almost all of Australia was 2-6°C above average temperatures. Australia has battled with bushfire seasons since 1970, with more than 2,000 homes having been destroyed in three of it’s biggest fire seasons, 1982-1983, 2008-2009 and 2019-2020. In this episode of the Briefing, we're joined by Greg Mullins, former Commissioner of Fire and Rescue New South Wales, a Climate Councillor with the Climate Council and a founding member of Emergency Leaders for Climate Action. Following on from a horror summer in Europe, what will this year's bushfire season look like? Headlines: Commonwealth Bank's profits off high interest rates Hard solo has MPs wanting to tighten alcohol restrictions Brittany Higgins speaks out after inquiry report Man who killed an ibis has been jailed for six months Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E193 · Tue, August 08, 2023
"Darwin may become unliveable in the next fifty years"
Forty-five paediatricians have signed a letter warning the government about the risks of fracking to child and infant health. On Tuesday morning health professionals in support of the letter protested outside APH in Canberra. The letter states research that links fracking to birth defects, low birth weight, cancer and respiratory conditions. Paediatrician Louise Woodward who drafted the letter joins Jan Fran to explain the significance of fracking. Headlines: Matildas' ratings $3-billion in rent increases Thousands gather for funeral of Sinéad O’Connor in Ireland One supermarket has been voted Australia’s favourite Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E192 · Mon, August 07, 2023
Did you know female football was banned? The rise of the World Cup
As the Matilda’s progress to the quarter finals, we take a deep dive on the history of women’s football with Moya Dodd, a former Australian player who rose up to the FIFA Executive. Headlines: Matildas through to the quarterfinals Deadly wild mushroom investigation Russell Island fire update Meteor in Victoria overnight Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E191 · Sun, August 06, 2023
The explosion in Australia's outlaw motorcycle gangs
States are throwing millions of dollars to reign in outlaw motorcycle gangs – why are they on the rise? We're told regularly that bikie gangs rule the drug trade - and there were reports last month some of the recent Sydney gangland murders were linked - allegedly - to the gangs warring over the supply of illicit drugs. Given we've spent millions on operations like Raptor in NSW, Viper in Victoria and Maxim in Queensland, the gangs continue to flourish. Why can't the gangs be reigned in? In this episode of the Briefing, we're joined by Professor Mark Lauchs from Qld University of Technology’s School of Justice who's been looking at the changing face of gang violence. What's with the rise in Nike bikies? Headlines: Six bodies retrieved from Russell Island fire house ACT Chief Prosecutor resigns in wake of Lehrmann allegations PM committed to Voice despite poor polling Three dead after wild mushroom poisoning USA knocked out of World Cup as Matildas prepare for big game Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E190 · Fri, August 04, 2023
Em Rusciano on neurodiversity
Welcome to On Topic with the Weekend Briefing, a special series where Jamila Rizvi talks to some of her favourite guests - old and new - about a single fascinating subject. Over the next two months, you’ll hear from singers, writers, models, actors and change makers on topics as diverse as power and influence, mindset and money, bodies and brains. Up first? Is Em Rusciano! She has co-hosted breakfast radio, sold out the Sydney Opera House and released chart-topping songs and award winning books and audio books. Last year Em addressed the National Press Club, in Canberra, speaking about her ADHD and autism diagnoses and calling for policy reform. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Em speaks about neurodiversity and the diagnoses that changed her life. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E189 · Thu, August 03, 2023
The truth about the 4 million guns in Australian homes
Do you know how many guns are in your community? There are more than 4.3 million guns scattered across Australia. With a population of almost 26 million, that's a gun for every six people. In this episode of The Briefing, we're joined by LiSTNR investigative journalist Clair Weaver to find out where the guns are, who has them, and what the authorities are doing to address the explosion in gun crime. In this episode of the Briefing, what you need to know about guns in your neighbourhood. Headlines: Former US President Donald Trump heads to court Former Defence Minister Linda Reynolds is suing Brittany Higgins Human remains recovered near where a military chopper crashed Lizzo has responded to allegations of sexual harassment Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E188 · Wed, August 02, 2023
Is this a big deal? Trump stolen election charges explained
Former US President Donald Trump has been indicted for his role in trying to overturn the 2020 presidential election and the January 6 Capitol riots. It’s Donald’s third indictment in four months – but this time Special Counsel Jack Smith is pushing for a speedy trial, with Trump facing a string of criminal charges. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Associate Professor David Smith, from the US Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. Can Donald Trump survive three indictments and go on to win the 2024 US Presidential election? Headlines: Brazil knocked out of Fifa Women’s World Cup Pittsburgh synagogue gunman gets death penalty ACT report into Higgins investigation scarifies Drumgold Lennon to join McCartney on stage via AI Canadian PM Trudeau and wife split Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E187 · Tue, August 01, 2023
Billionaire bust ups: Why mega rich marriages break down
Two of Australia’s biggest billionaire power couples are breaking up, the Forrests and the Cannon-Brookes. That follows the Gates, the Bezos, Elon Musk and Rupert Murdoch. In today's episode of The Briefing, we explore the pain of mega-rich matrimony with one of New York’s leading divorce lawyers, Dror Bikel. Given that money is a key stress on normal relationships, why do billionaire couples struggle to hang on? Headlines: FIFA Women’s World Cup moves to Group of 16 Bedsheets lead police to alleged serial abuser RBA keeps interest rates on hold for second consecutive month TikTok and WeChat put on notice Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E186 · Mon, July 31, 2023
Expanding access to abortion pills seems like a no-brainer, but is it?
It’s becoming much easier to access the abortion pill MS-2 Step (RU486 overseas.) All doctors and some senior nurses will be able to prescribe it, and from today, all pharmacies will be able to stock it. But gynaecologists and obstetricians are sounding the alarm, saying there isn’t enough infrastructure in place to expand access this much. In this episode of the Briefing, we speak with Dr Gino Pecoraro, President National Association Specialist Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners’ president Nicole Higgins. Expanding access to abortion pills seems like a no- brainer, but is it? Headlines: The Matildas are into the World Cup’s final 16 Scott Morrison hits back over robodebt report The search for four ADF members now a recovery mission July was the world’s hottest month in recorded history Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E185 · Sun, July 30, 2023
It was teeth, now it’s hair: The boom in Turkey’s cosmetic industry
There’s a new tourism boom. It’s all about cosmetic surgery, dentistry – both remedial and cosmetic – and hair transplants. Aussies are flying to Turkey, to undergo procedures too costly here in Australia. In this episode of the Briefing, we meet Michael, one of thousands of Australians who’ve been to Turkey for a hair transplant; and Dr Nicola Dean, the president of Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. Is it safe? And is it actually cheaper than getting the procedure here in Australia, given you have to fork out for flights and accom as well as the surgery. In today’s Briefing, would you travel to Turkey for a boob job or hair transplant? Headlines: The Matildas to face Canada tonight in the World Cup Defence crews still searching for four men following chopper crash Sonia Kruger wins the Gold Logie Latest data on streaming sees Netflix lose out Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E184 · Fri, July 28, 2023
The Kates are teaching Americans how to swear
In the early days of their careers, Kate McClennan and Kate McCartney never got booked for the same TV shows. At the time, women were few and far between in comedy sketches - and executives never imagined they’d need more than one woman. Let alone more than one Kate. Once they finally met in person, the two became close friends and writing partners. They went on to create the Katering Show followed by Get Crackin’ on the ABC. And now? They’re back, with an Amazon Prime original television series which they self-describe as BroadChurch - but funny. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, the Kates explain how they convinced America that swearing is part of Australian culture. THE WEEKEND LIST: Read: Yellowface by R.F. Kuang Try: Robe Haircare Try: Hire a campervan Eat: Morning juice shots or make your own See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E183 · Thu, July 27, 2023
The US Government’s UFO hearings: Are we alone....?
The US Congress has held hearings this week to try to determine, once and for all, what the US Department of Defence knows about UFOs or UAPs, unidentified aerial phenomena. What’s called the House Oversight Committee is calling witnesses who claim the US government – particularly the Pentagon – knows more than it’s letting on. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Nick Pope, who used to run the British Government's UFO Project and is now recognised as one of the world's leading experts on the unexplained. What are we not being told about unidentified flying objects? Headlines: Matildas shock loss to Nigeria Sydney Shootings Thousands of vapes seized in Melbourne raid July is set to be Earth's hottest month on record Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E182 · Wed, July 26, 2023
What to do if you come face-to- face with a dingo
There have been a string of dingo attacks on K’gari off the coast of south east Queensland in the last month. In one attack, a 10-year-old boy was dragged into a dam. In the two latest attacks, women were chased into the surf after being confronted on the beach. All three victims suffered wounds as the pack of dingos struck. In this episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by Dr Bradley Smith, a world-renowned dingo expert from the Central Queensland University and author of the Dingo Debate published by the CSIRO to find out what to do if you’re approached by a dingo. Headlines: Actor Kevin Spacey found not guilty of sexual offence charges Sinéad O’Connor has died at the age of 56 The US has raised interest rates to the highest level since 2001 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E181 · Tue, July 25, 2023
Why radical new laws are sparking angry protests in Israel
Laws passed in Israel overnight allow the Netanyahu government to overhaul the judiciary and prevents the Israeli Supreme Court from vetoing decisions on the grounds of being “unreasonable”. Hundreds of thousands of protestors have marched on the capital Jerusalem, protesting the government’s tactics, suggesting the new legislation will threaten democracy in Israel. In this episode of the Briefing, we're joined by Dr Noam Peleg from the University of NSW Faculty of Law as we look at what the new laws mean....and how they will affect the citizens of Israel. Headlines: New evidence in Gina Rinehart court case Prime Minister’s reply to Black Friday bushfires question Mortgage arrears risk highest level since GFC Mass beaching of pilot whales in WA Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E180 · Mon, July 24, 2023
An insider's view on Hollywood's crippling strikes
Hollywood has ground to a halt after the the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists – the biggest union representing actors and production staff decided to join writers in going on strike for better pay and conditions. It’s the first time in 60 years both groups have gone on strike at the same time – and it means production on television, streaming and movies has stopped. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Kym Jackson, a member of SAG-AFTRA to explain what it means for the future of Hollywood and the film industry here in Australia. Headlines: Ben Roberts-Smith plague addition at war memorial Biggest scalp from Robodebt royal commission Gina Rinehart in court battle for multibillion-dollar Hancock mining spoils Twitter turns to X Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E179 · Sun, July 23, 2023
Why we don't like MAMILS - The dehumanisation of cyclists
Ground-breaking Australian research reveals why there is so much distain for road cyclists. Drivers see cyclists in lycra as less than fully human. Tom Tilley, a self confessed Mamil (middle aged male in lycra) has travelled the country speaking to cyclists, researchers and drivers in the hope of making our roads safer. Tom's report aired on Seven's Spotlight program last night. In this episode of The Briefing, Tom talks with Dr Mark Limb, a researcher from the QUT who looks at the clothes or outfits cyclists wear and how that changes the perceptions of drivers. We find out why we don't like MAMILs - and the reasons behind the dehumanisation of cyclists. Headlines: Australians dominate in the pool at World Championships Netanyahu to undergo heart surgery as critical vote looms Greek Islands wildfires Barbie beats Oppenheimer at opening weekend Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E178 · Fri, July 21, 2023
Weekend Briefing: How Jeremy Franco's childhood impacts his comedy
Jeremy Franco is everyone's fave TikTok and Instagram star. He exploded during Covid and is now one of the most popular Australian creatives on social media. Jeremy and Jamila share a similar childhood and their combined memories are a pure delight. In this episode of The Weekend Briefing, Jamila is joined by Jeremy Franco.....wait until you hear about the 'lemon people'. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E177 · Thu, July 20, 2023
Yumi Stynes: why her Sex book was ripped off shop shelves
Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out, a book written by Melissa Kang of "Dolly Doctor" and TV personality Yumi Stynes, has been removed from department store shelves. The authors have been subjected to a social media pile-on and Big W has pulled the book from its stores because its staff were being abused. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by co-author Yumi Stynes who explains why she wrote the book and what she hoped it would achieve....and Yumi certainly didn’t expect it to create this level of controversy. Headlines: Matildas win their first match of the FIFA World Cup! Three dead including gunman following Auckland shooting spree Robodebt public servant suspended without pay Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E176 · Wed, July 19, 2023
The Barbie movie: Overhyped or Oscar-worthy?
The Barbie Movie seems to be absolutely everywhere! With a marketing budget that dwarfs how much it was to actually film it, we’ve seen burger buns turn pink, swimming pools with ‘Barbie’ splashed on the bottom and of course millions of videos on social media. Now it’s finally out, Katrina Blowers and Justin Hill, host of Listnr’s The Streaming Service, checked it out to find out if it’s worth the hype. Headlines: VIC up for millions over cancelling comm games Major changes for universities Dingo on k'gari euthanised Ticket sales down for Splendour Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E175 · Tue, July 18, 2023
How Daniel Andrews got the Commonwealth Games so wrong
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will not be hosted by Victoria. Premier Daniel Andrews has said the reason is due to its cost. The original price tag was $2.6 billion, but it’s now looking more like between $6-7 billion. We get all the detail with Annika Smethurst. Headlines: Christchurch mayor offers to host Commonwealth Games Trump expects to be arrested over Capitol riots Stranded Aussie back on land Lawyer outraged words were used on 'no' pamphlet Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E174 · Mon, July 17, 2023
FIFA Women's World Cup: inside the mindset of a Matilda
The FIFA Women’s World Cup is kicking off in Sydney this Thursday night; with the next month set to see the world’s best soccer played in Australia and New Zealand. With the Aussies serious contenders to be tournament champions, we speak with Teagan Micah and Charli Grant who are both in the squad about what it means to be competing against the world's best in your home country, and what it will mean for women's football in Australia. Headlines: Matildas call for pay parity Voice pamphlets to be published Calls for royal commission into Big 4 consulting firms Woman attacked by dingoes on K'gari Elton John testifies on behalf of Kevin Spacey Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E173 · Sun, July 16, 2023
"A soul-crushing experience": The renters forced to move home
Everyone knows someone with a rental horror story. Rents are skyrocketing across the country and it's becoming increasingly difficult to find somewhere affordable to live. We're joined by Chantelle Schmidt, who writes for a number of publications including Pedestrian. She's also been sharing her painful rental journey on TikTok. We also talk to Mark McCrindle, founder of McCrindle research who has analysed the data on the impact of the rental market on young renters. In this episode of The Briefing, the horror stories Australian renters are facing and what impact it has on the lives of those affected. Headlines: Alcaraz beats Djokovic to win Wimbledon Support for the Voice falls again LNP wins Gold Coast by-election New RBA boss under fire over old comments Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E172 · Fri, July 14, 2023
Marta Dusseldorp and the character closest to herself
Marta Dusseldorp is one of Australia’s best known and loved actors. From stage to screen, and now with production credits to boot. Dusseldorp’s latest project, Bay of Fire, premieres tomorrow night on ABC TV and is filmed on the west coast of Tasmania, a place that Dusseldorp herself discovered in the depths of the pandemic. In this chat with Jamila Rizvi, Marta explains the impact of the pandemic on Australian artists and takes us on the journey of stepping into a new character. *Content warning this episode mentions suicide if you or anyone you know are struggling call lifeline on 13 11 14 THE WEEKEND LIST: Listen: There's No Place Like Home podcast by Future Women Try: Cardigang : Learn to Knit Listen: The Louis Theroux podcast Eat: Warm chicken salad - recipe in episode See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E171 · Thu, July 13, 2023
The real cage fight: Musk's Twitter v Zuckerberg's Threads
Everyone's talking about Threads, the new social media platform launched by Mark Zuckerberg's Meta last week. Jan and Tom signed up immediately, as they did when Twitter and Instagram launched. In this episode of The Briefing, Jan Fran and Tom Tilley discuss why you'd sign up for Threads, whether it will survive and whether we even need ANOTHER social media platform. Headlines: Hollywood set to shut down Elon Musk launches his own A-I startup Kevin Spacey takes to the witness box France is making fashion more sustainable Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E170 · Wed, July 12, 2023
White Island volcano: how three brothers are on trial for 22 deaths
A 16-week trial over the Whakaari/White Island volcano tragedy has begun in New Zealand after an eruption killed 22 people, including 17 Australians in 2019. The island’s owners, brothers Andrew, James and Peter Buttle, their company, and two tour operators are on trial for allegedly failing to adequately protect tourists and staff. Each of the companies faces a maximum fine of $1.4 million, while the brothers charged face a maximum fine of $280,000. The ABC’s Emily Clark walks us through what’s been happening. Headlines: Australia is sending more bushmasters to Ukraine The RBA set to meet less to consider the cash rate Big news on the right to work from home Neurosurgeon Charlie Teo has taken a massive blow Aussies nominated in the Emmys Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E169 · Tue, July 11, 2023
Fukushima: why is Japan releasing radioactive water into the Pacific?
Should Japan release millions of litres of radioactive waste water into the Pacific Ocean? Everyone remembers the Fukushima nuclear plant being swamped by a tsunami in March 2011. All four of the plant's reactors were written off – and ever since, the reactors have been cooled with recycled water from a new treatment plant. The plant now plans to release the cooling wastewater into the ocean. In this episode of the Briefing, we're joined by marine biologist Robert Richmond, a professor with the University of Hawaii, who details his concerns with Japan's plans, and what it might mean for the Pacific's ocean ecosystem. Headlines: Ben Roberts-Smith is appealing White Island eruption trial has begun NATO refuses to give Ukraine a timeline on when it can join Australians have increased drug consumption Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E168 · Mon, July 10, 2023
Living forever just got easier: Australia’s first cryonics lab
It’s a pretty sci fi concept – being stored upside down in a giant thermos full of liquid nitrogen in the hope that some day, maybe hundreds of years away, technology will bring you back to life. Now cryonics is here in Australia. Peter Tsolakides is the director of Southern Cryonics in Holbrook, and dozens of people have forked over tens of thousands of dollars to put themselves into deep freeze until science catches up with their big dreams of eternal life. So how does it work, and would that future be, lonely? Headlines: Australia is joining the "climate club" Access to medical abortions made easier Robodebt ministers could be sued Australians are living longer than ever before Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E167 · Sun, July 09, 2023
What will change if the RBA governor is sacked
A decision on who will be the next RBA Governor is expected mid-July. So will Philip Lowe remain in the job? Who are the candidates? Will it change how the RBA operates, or are we just looking for a scapegoat following the huge number of cash rate rises. Jonathan Kearns, former RBA department head joins Tom Tilley to explain. Headlines: Pressure mounts on Scott Morrison to resign BetStop: we can soon opt out of online gambling $1B defence deal signed with Germany Controversy over US sending cluster bombs to Ukraine England wins third Ashes test Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E166 · Fri, July 07, 2023
From pole to parliament - meet MP Georgie Purcell
30-year-old MP Georgie Purcell was elected to the Victorian Legislative Council in November last year - and she’s already shaking up the House. Georgie, from the Animal Justice Party, stands out from other politicians as she made history with her maiden speech when she decided to own her narrative and share that she was previously a stripper. In this chat with Katrina Blowers, Georgie explains what it’s like to be trolled and how she’s more qualified than most of her peers but continues to be an easy target on social media. THE WEEKEND LIST: Listen: Blak Matters podcast Read: Pay the Rent Read: The Barbie Movie collaborations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E165 · Thu, July 06, 2023
The case for keeping phones in schools
Queensland has announced plans banning smartphones in state schools from next year bringing them into line with the rest of the country except ACT. While it seems like a no-brainer given how distracting and harmful smartphones can be to kids and teens, we get the full story with child psychologist Michael-Carr Gregg and Dr Jason Zagami, a senior lecturer at the School of Education and Professional Studies at Griffith University. Headlines begin 11.34 Users flock to Twitter's rival Threads Nine newspapers apologises for a racist ad Senior minister forced to delete tweets Reynolds threatens to sue Higgins for defamation Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E164 · Wed, July 05, 2023
YouTube’s worst apology: unpacking Colleen Ballinger
Colleen Ballinger, otherwise known as Miranda Sings, has been a YouTuber for over a decade and has recently had some serious allegations made against her, including being a child groomer. In a response to the claims she came out with a 10-minute long apology video where she decided to sing rather than speak, which many have dubbed Youtube’s worst apology video. Justin Hill host of LiSNTR’s The Streaming Service sits down with Katrina Blowers to unpack the video. Headlines begin 13.28 AFL investigates photo leak Donald Trump Jnr postpones tour Global temperature records broken Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
S4 E163 · Tue, July 04, 2023
Diet coke: why does the WHO keep saying everything causes cancer?
The World Health Organization's recently announced that aspartame, used in products from Coca-Cola diet sodas to Mars' Extra chewing gum, will be listed as "possibly carcinogenic to humans." It feels like we are told about a new carcinogenic item or product every week, so what should we actually be worried? Oliver Jones, Professor of Chemistry at RMIT and internationally recognised expert in analytical science joins Antoinette Lattouf to break it down. Headlines begin 12.31: The RBA has kept rates steady New trade ties with Indonesia Ash Barty has had a baby Meta is taking on Twitter Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAU Twitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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