Big Small Talk: 5 PM Tuesdays So you want to know what’s happening in parliament, but you also want to know the latest in pop culture? Good, as you should. From the front page to your newsfeeds, no story is too serious, stale, funny or frivolous. Because, if you haven’t realised, loving pop culture doesn’t mean you don’t understand politics. Knowing all your shit? That’s hot. New Episodes 5pm Tuesday.
Small Talk: 6 AM Thursdays It might not be tangible news but each week there’s something in the cultural zeitgeist that gets us all talking. We want to unpack these frivolous conversations, from new trends to relationship theories to life advice. In an age of never-ending small talk, we want to examine how these collective thoughts affect the way we see the world. We may even reach out to a few friends and experts to weigh in.
Big Talk: Wednesday 6 AM - Last Two Weeks of Every Month Over the past few decades, there have been news headlines so shocking that we still hear and feel their impact, such as Roe V Wade, Monica Lewinsky, Epstein, Mabo and Hillsong. Don’t you think it’s about time you knew all the important and salacious details about the real stories that have happened that shaped our world today? Come on, I know you’re curious.
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Scientology is often called the ‘celebrity religion’, popularised by names like Tom Cruise, John Travolta and Nancy Cartwright. Recognised by its long list of scandals and out-of-this-world belief system, Scientology sits in contrast to what many would class as a religion in modern society. So, what lies beneath the surface of the embattled billion-dollar organisation? Who is it’s founder, L Ron. Hubbard? And, how did Scientology turn into a money-making empire? Big Small Talk Instagram Sarah-Ja...
In Part Two of this series, we uncover the building blocks of Scientology and get introduced to Hubbard's E-meter. Explain what Thetans are and how they enter your body. Plus we break down the framework that makes Scientology a religion and the celebs, like Tom Cruise and John Travolta, who have been among the Church’s most visible advocates. Big Small Talk Instagram Sarah-Jane's Instagram Hannah's Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....
Big Small Talk unpacks the alarming shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner and the bizarre manifesto of the alleged attacker. The episode also delves into the escalating legal drama between Kyle and Jackie O and their former broadcaster, ARN Media, alongside a significant criminal investigation into OpenAI after its AI was found to have advised a mass shooter. Finally, the hosts examine fresh allegations regarding Alex Cooper's Unwell network and break down Australia's contentious gas tax debate, highlighting its economic and political implications.
Outrage culture, cancel culture, and the rise of the “mean girl” accusation - this week, Hannah is back on Small Talk to help me unpack what’s really going on in comment sections right now, and why it feels like other women are increasingly the target. From the algorithm rewarding the angriest opinions, to comments being used to shape our own views, we get honest about our thoughts on the pile-on. We dive into the evolution of “girls girl” culture, and how a once lighthearted label has been weap...
Alex Cooper vs Alix Earle is heating up - and yes, somehow Brianna Chickenfry is now involved. We unpack the “mean girl” narrative and whether this is really just a business fallout. Meanwhile, the Liberals have proposed a new immigration policy that feels like a copy-paste out of the Pauline Hanson playbook. Over at Coachella weekend two, we dissect Brandchella, Billie Eilish lives out everyone’s dream as the “One Less Lonely Girl,” and Sabrina brings Madonna on stage. Hannah breaks down the la...
This week I'm joined by comedy duo with over a million Instagram followers, Isaac and Jack from Swag On The Beat. Once again taking advantage of having two guys on the podcast, I ask for their take on the most viral dating and relationship advice circulating TikTok. Including: The taxi cab theory If he wanted to, he would black cat/golden retriever energy Would you still love me if I was a worm? What about if I had a clone? Orange peel theory Beige flags See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy i...
We kick off this news week with an update on Trump's Truth Social Post threats and the broken ceasefire agreement after Israel bombed Lebanon. We then compare the biggest Coachella performances - namely, Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber. Hannah then talks us through the arrest of decorated Australian soldier Ben Roberts-Smith, charged with multiple war crimes. Sarah then explains the breaking drama between Alex Cooper and Alix Earle. Also, Australian actress Ruby Rose claims Katy Perry sexually ...
Michelle Battersby is back, and a lot has changed! Since we last spoke, she’s sold her startup Sunroom, stepped into a new role as President of Peanut, and welcomed her second child. We get into her experience of being a mum and that transition, before unpacking why the “girl boss” conversation is suddenly back in the headlines and why it needs a serious rethink when motherhood enters the equation. Michelle opens up about the tension so many women feel between wanting a career and wanting to be ...
We kick off with the latest out of the US, unpacking the posts from Trump about threatening to 'take out' the whole country of Iran and that tomorrow will be "plant day and bridge day", alongside updates of the firing of Pam Bondi and Kristi Noem. Then, the $180 million legal war surrounding Kyle and Jackie O Show. We break down what’s actually going on, who seems to have the stronger case, and whether traditional broadcasters can still “own” personalities in a world where podcasts exist. Next, ...
This Small Talk episode features Claudia Giblin, a 26-year-old Australian living in New York, whose ex-boyfriend got “red-pilled” while they were living together and completely changed how she dates. Claudia gets into what it’s actually like being an international in the US right now, where politics don’t just shape the culture, but your relationships too. From the real fear of visas being at risk when speaking out, to how political views are now creeping into dating, it’s a side of life in Amer...
This week, we discuss Hannah Montana's return for a 20th anniversary special, which drew millions of viewers in just days (and pitch what we would have done differently if we were made exec producers!) We then look into the US-Israeli war in Iran entering its fifth week and Donald Trump extending his deadline on proposed strikes while pushing for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen. Back home, the Albanese Government begins rolling out measures to address fuel shortages. Then, the security guard who ...
Maggie Zhou joins "Big Small Talk" to discuss how digital platforms like TikTok drive rapid fashion trends, leading to overconsumption and challenging personal style development. The conversation delves into the economics of fast fashion, the importance of ethical consumption, and the problematic nature of cultural appropriation in trends. They also share insights on cultivating authentic style, navigating influencer brands, and the psychological motivations behind modern shopping habits.
Delve into the revolutionary journey of the contraceptive pill, starting with its ancient predecessors and the pivotal activism of Margaret Sanger, who bravely defied laws to champion women's reproductive freedom. The hosts discuss the pill's complex scientific development, including controversial human trials in Puerto Rico, and its eventual approval. The episode also examines the pill's profound social impact, particularly in Australia, shaping women's roles, the concept of informed consent, and sparking ongoing debates about female hormones and equality.
Part two of this series deep dives into the backlash faced by the contraceptive pill, including strong opposition from the Catholic Church and initial feminist concerns, alongside serious health risks associated with early high-dose versions. The hosts discuss its mental health implications, current usage trends in Australia, the ongoing debate around over-the-counter access, and the challenges of doctor-patient communication. They also critically examine the failed trials for male contraception and the rise of misinformation within wellness culture.
This episode covers the escalating war in the Middle East, its economic impact on Australia, and proposed policy solutions. It also delves into the bizarre public feud between pop star Chappell Roan and an 11-year-old, alongside an analysis of One Nation's unexpected success in the South Australian election. Finally, the hosts discuss the controversial cancellation of The Bachelorette US due to lead Taylor Frankie Paul's past domestic violence allegations.
Host Sarah-Jane welcomes neuroscience expert Alexis Fernandez to demystify manifestation, explaining its scientific basis and differentiating it from common "woo-ha." They delve into how beliefs, self-talk, and even healthy venting physiologically influence our reality, introducing concepts like the "ladder effect" for affirmations and the neurological impact of visualization. The episode emphasizes practical steps and a focus on feelings over rigid goals to truly attract a desired life.
This episode dives into the 2026 Oscars, highlighting major winners, political statements, and red carpet fashion discussions, including Timothy Chalamet's controversy. It then explores Australia's new age-verification rules leading to porn site blocks and the implications of users turning to VPNs. The hosts also dissect Louis Theroux's "Inside the Manosphere" documentary, revealing its economic model and the problematic rise of rage bait culture. Finally, the episode addresses the Iranian women's football team's asylum dilemma amidst ongoing war and the latest concerns surrounding Britney Spears' well-being.
In this heartfelt and humorous conversation, Toni Lodge opens up about the complex journey of grieving her mother's passing, exploring societal awkwardness around death and her aversion to the word "sorry." She delves into finding community through dark humor on her podcast, "Tony and Ryan," and how grief shapes personal growth and relationships. Toni also recounts her famously chaotic engagement story, demonstrating her belief in embracing life's messy, beautiful moments.
Hannah and Zara dive into major news topics, starting with the shocking end of Australia's highest-paid radio show, Kyle and Jackie O, analyzing its controversies and business implications. They also provide an in-depth look at the escalating conflict in Iran, the new hardline supreme leader, and Australia's surprising involvement, alongside the inspiring protest of the Iranian women's football team. The hosts then unpack Timothée Chalamet's recent controversial remarks about ballet and opera and the Clintons' evasive testimonies in the Epstein depositions. Finally, they cover Sofia Franklyn's upcoming "Daddy Issues" book, offering insights into the Call Her Daddy podcast fallout and the broader challenges for women in media.
Maisie Peters delves into the inspirations and meanings behind her powerful lyrics, from the societal commentary in "The History of Man" to the raw emotions of heartbreak in "Body Better" and "UUU." She explores themes of womanhood, self-acceptance, and channeling devastation into power, contrasting her album "The Good Witch" with the "hope core" feeling of "Florescence." The episode also covers her experiences opening for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour and working with Ed Sheeran.
Hosts Hannah and Sarah delve into complex global and local issues, from the US-Israel strikes on Iran and Australia's response, to Prime Minister Albanese's "difficult" week marked by a bomb scare and controversial comments on Grace Tame. They also explore the ethical considerations of Ryan Murphy's JFK Jr. series, the shrinking Hollywood landscape due to the Paramount Warner merger, and a damning Four Corners investigation into endometriosis handling. The episode highlights the intersection of politics, pop culture, and social issues.
This week on Small Talk we’re joined by Josh Van Cuylenburg from The Imperfects !! Josh is a producer-turned-host and the architect of the Vulnerabilitea House. To test the theory on the 'hangover', Josh has kindly let me host a special Small Talk edition of the Vulnerabitea house with him. If you're wondering what the Vulnerability Hangover is - it's that wave of shame, regret and “why did I say that?” that hits after you take an emotional risk. We unpack why being vulnerable feels so much wors...
Continuing from Part One, this episode explores the eruption of sectarian violence in Iraq after Saddam's fall, explaining the Sunni-Shia divide and the dismantling of Iraqi institutions. It details the collapse of the WMD justification for the war, revealing alternative motives like re-establishing US dominance and securing oil interests. The discussion also covers the Abu Ghraib scandal, Bush's re-election amid mounting domestic crises, and the ultimate withdrawal of US troops under Obama, leaving behind a fractured nation and the rise of ISIS.
This episode provides a deep dive into the Iraq War, tracing its roots from the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent reshaping of American and Australian foreign policy. It explores the controversial 2000 election that brought George W. Bush to power, his "war on terror" doctrine, and the justification for invading Iraq based on WMDs and "spreading freedom." The discussion also covers Australia's involvement, the Patriot Act's impact on civil liberties, and the massive global protests against the war, concluding with the initial invasion and the premature "Mission Accomplished" declaration.
This episode delves into a blend of serious news and pop culture phenomena, discussing Prince Andrew's recent arrest and the complex debate around Pauline Hanson's anti-Muslim comments and the repatriation of 'ISIS Brides.' It also explores the ethical issues highlighted by the America's Next Top Model docuseries, the power of millennial Disney nostalgia with Hillary Duff and Hannah Montana, and Winter Olympic star Eileen Gu's controversial decision to represent China.
Annabelle Lee, host of "Everybody Has a Secret," joins Big Small Talk to explore the complex ethics of secrets, why humans are drawn to them, and the impact of constantly hearing others' deepest confessions. She shares her personal journey from being secretive to an oversharer, and how she navigates vulnerability online. The episode also delves into listener-submitted dilemmas, from white lies to profound family revelations and relationship betrayals, prompting hosts to test their moral compasses.
We unpack the fallout from Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to Australia and why police are now being investigated over their handling of the protests. Then how Zayn Malik claims he was never in love with Gigi Hadid (partner of six yers and mother to his child??). A Norwegian Winter Olympian publicly begs for his ex back, all while the Olympic Village somehow runs out of condoms. Back home, the Liberals spill, Angus Taylor steps up and Sussan Ley leaves politics entirely. We get an update ...
This week on Small Talk, we’re joined by comeback king Mitch Churi. From starting in commercial radio at 19 to hosting national shows - and then being unexpectedly let go - Mitch knows what it means to publicly rebuild and rebrand. We giggle over it being the year of the horse and the insane amount of content encouraging our 2026 personal rebrands. Thankfully Mitch is also well up to date with pop culture, so we also get to evaluate a few of our favourite celeb comebacks - from Zara Larsson to A...
This week we’re unpacking the Super Bowl and Bad Bunny's joyful and perfect performance. Then to the major protests around the Israeli president’s visit to Australia and the police response. We dive into why the internet absolutely melting down over " Wuthering Heights" discourse (yes, justice to the English lit majors). We also break down the latest developments in the Epstein files and why Elon Musk’s Grok AI is under fresh scrutiny. In the Q+A we squeeze in a chat about Taylor Swifts new Opal...
Elouise Eftos, "Australia's first attractive comedian," unpacks the complex concept of pretty privilege. She explores how women are conditioned in a patriarchal society, the hidden costs and benefits of attractiveness, and the societal backlash against women who confidently embrace their beauty and intelligence. The conversation delves into themes of choice feminism, media influence, and the empowering potential of women collectively challenging ingrained beauty standards through self-awareness and comedy.
