The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show - podcast cover

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show

Australian Journalist and TV Presenter Jess Rowe jumps past the small talk, to show you a different side of her famous guests in these heartfelt and honest conversations. 

Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

Safe Space: What is it like to live with a Terminal Illness?

In this SAFE SPACE episode, Jess sits down with Kellie Finlayson to explore what it’s really like to live with a Terminal Illness. At just 25 and shortly after giving birth, Kellie was diagnosed with Stage 4 Bowel Cancer. She opens up about her journey, sharing how she shifted her mindset from “why me?” to “why not me?” , and how perspective and resilience have shaped her experience. Kellie speaks candidly about the emotional and physical challenges of treatment, the power of self-advocacy, and ...

Jul 01, 202536 minSeason 5Ep. 22

Jane Fonda ‘I Feel Younger in Every Way That Matters’

Jane Fonda is an iconic actress, activist, and fitness pioneer whose influence spans over six decades. At 87, she continues to inspire with her unwavering commitment to social causes and her candid reflections on life, aging, and beauty. In this episode, Jess and Jane explore the themes of aging gracefully and the evolving standards of female beauty. Jane opens up about self-worth, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of female friendships. She discusses how activism has shaped her sen...

Jun 24, 202537 minSeason 5Ep. 21

Montaigne ‘I've never done anything like that before’

Montaigne is one of Australia’s most original voices. A genre-defying, ARIA-winning musician known for their theatrical flair and fearless honesty. From representing Australia on the Eurovision stage to carving out space as a non-binary artist, Montaigne brings both vulnerability and power to everything they do. In this episode, Jess sits down with the brilliant performer to uncover the real person behind the glitter and grandeur. Montaigne opens up about identity, family, and the emotional refu...

Jun 17, 202542 minSeason 5Ep. 20

Katrina Gorry ‘A weight had lifted, finally I can let it out’

Katrina Gorry is a global Football Icon! A World Cup star, Olympian, and proud mum. But behind the glory on the pitch is a trailblazer who’s faced some of life’s toughest challenges with courage, grace, and a fierce spirit that’s impossible not to admire. In her self-titled biography Katrina Gorry , she opens up like never before, and in this deeply honest conversation with Jess, she does the same. Katrina and Jess talk about the power of vulnerability; from battling an eating disorder and menta...

Jun 10, 202544 minSeason 5Ep. 19

What happens when we stop living through the lens of ‘we’?

In this reflective solo episode, Jess dives into a question that’s been tugging at her heart and maybe yours too. After years of defining herself through her roles as mum, wife, daughter, and carer, a recent trip with just her mum cracked something open: Beyond the anxiety of letting go came the realisation of how freeing it is to discover who we are beyond our roles. Jess invites you to consider the you behind the titles. Who are you when you're not looking after everyone else? What brings you ...

Jun 03, 202527 minSeason 5Ep. 18

Holly Wainwright 'Can Friendship Outlast Romantic Love?'

Can friendship outlast romantic love? To answer this BIG Question Jess Rowe is joined by Best Selling Author and Podcaster Holly Wainwright for a joyful deep-dive into the power of platonic love, the heartbreak of friend breakups, and why our soulmates might just be our best friends. Jess and Holly get real about the ups and downs of long-term friendships and why they need just as much care as romantic relationships. They chat about how these bonds can be fraught, but ultimately shape who we are...

May 27, 202537 minSeason 5Ep. 17

Larry Emdur 'If not now, when?'

Larry Emdur is one of Australia’s most recognisable TV personalities, known for hosting The Morning Show, The Price is Right, and The Chase Australia. With a career spanning four decades, Larry reflects on his accidental entry into television, navigating imposter syndrome, and the wins and setbacks that come with life in the spotlight. In this episode, Jess and Larry explore what’s kept him grounded, from the wisdom of his late father to unexpected twists like launching a whiskey brand and final...

May 20, 202547 minSeason 5Ep. 16

The Mother of All Bonus Ep's

This special Mother’s Day bonus episode is a fun and unfiltered chat between Jess and her mum, Penelope Rowe. Full of surprise questions they didn't see coming, they dive into everything from untold secrets to bad advice. It’s unscripted, heartwarming, and a little bit cheeky, the perfect celebration of mums, connection, and the joy of not taking yourself too seriously. Know someone who'd enjoy this episode? Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on LINKS: If yo...

May 10, 202531 minSeason 5Ep. 15

Penelope Rowe ‘I feel a click in my brain and I know that's it’

In this very special episode, Jess sits down with her mum, Penelope Rowe, to answer YOUR questions in a deeply personal and candid conversation. Together, they share how Peter Overton (aka “Petey”) passed the all-important mum test, and how their deep bond has evolved through life’s highs and lows, including Penelope’s experience living with Bipolar Disorder. They reflect on what it truly means to be a ‘good enough’ mum, the importance of finding joy in the present moment, and how even ithe dark...

May 06, 202543 minSeason 5Ep. 14

Jackie Gillies ‘I love you, but I love myself more’

Jackie Gillies is a renowned psychic medium, entrepreneur, and star of The Real Housewives of Melbourne . As one of Australia’s most sought-after psychics and a respected voice in personal development, Jackie champions empowerment and wellness through her transformative workshops, retreats, and live Soul Sessions tours. She and her husband, Silverchair drummer Ben Gillies, are proud parents of twin boys. In this episode, Jackie shares the power of intuition, energy, and living with purpose. She ...

Apr 29, 202552 minSeason 5Ep. 13

Sam Wood 'No one's ever asked me that before'

Sam Wood rose to fame as The Bachelor in 2015, where he found the love of his life, Snezana. But he’s now best known as one of Australia’s leading voices in health and fitness. With 20+ years of experience and his hugely popular program, 28 by Sam Wood, he’s helped thousands take charge of their wellbeing. In this candid conversation, Sam and Jess dive deep into the unfiltered realities of parenting. From the ‘beautiful chaos’ of blended families to the often unrealistic expectations set by soci...

Apr 22, 202545 minSeason 5Ep. 12

Brooke Boney 'I felt like I'd been punched in the gut'

Brooke Boney is a proud Gamilaroi woman and trailblazing journalist, known for using her platform to spark conversation around Indigenous affairs and advocate for those less fortunate. She made history as the first Aboriginal woman in a major commercial TV role on The Today Show. In this conversation, Brooke shares her personal journey from the lasting impact of the Stolen Generations and intergenerational trauma, to the emotional toll of public life, racism, and being misunderstood. She opens u...

Apr 15, 202545 minSeason 5Ep. 11

Tierney Brothers ‘It was pretty brutal’

Human Nature’s sibling duo Andrew & Mike have faced the highs and lows of the music industry, from personal struggles and creative clashes to balancing family with fame. Their debut album as a duo marks a turning point, offering a unique window into their lives, struggles and triumphs. In this raw and emotional conversation, the brothers open up about their personal battles with alcoholism, the pressure of living in Las Vegas during the mass shooting and the anxiety they’ve faced on and off ...

Apr 08, 202544 minSeason 5Ep. 10

Ione Skye 'I was just in over my head'

Ione Skye was the ultimate cool girl of the 80s and 90’s. A rising Hollywood star with undeniable talent and a rebellious spirit. She made her debut in River’s Edge alongside Keanu Reeves before cementing her status as a Gen X icon in Say Anything with John Cusack. But behind the scenes, her life wasn’t the Hollywood fairy tale many imagined. From her high-profile romances to navigating fame, Ione’s journey was anything but conventional. In this episode, Ione shares her unconventional upbringing...

Apr 01, 202549 minSeason 5Ep. 9

Vincent Fantauzzo ‘It took me 10 years to tell my wife’

Award-winning portrait artist Vincent Fantauzzo gained recognition when his striking portrait of friend Heath Ledger won at the Archibald Prize. He became one of Australia’s most acclaimed portraitists, painting Hugh Jackman, Julia Gillard, and Asher Keddie; whom he unexpectedly fell in love with while painting her portrait. In this episode, Vince shares how he overcame poverty, violence, and abuse, revealing for the first time his lifelong struggle with dyslexia and the shame and fear he carrie...

Mar 25, 202556 minSeason 5Ep. 8

Christine Anu ‘I was doing it in plain sight’

Christine Anu is a beloved Australian singer, actress, and cultural icon, known for her powerful voice and advocacy for Indigenous culture. Her hit song My Island Home has become an anthem of belonging, identity, and connection This is Christine Anu like you've never heard her before as she opens up to Jess about grief, motherhood, mental health, and addiction. She reflects on losing her beloved mother, how parenting is a two-way street of learning, the many ways postnatal depression can manifes...

Mar 18, 202552 minSeason 5Ep. 7

Layne Beachley ‘No one sees the shit you go through’

Layne Beachley is widely regarded as one of the greatest female surfers of all time, with seven World Championship titles to her name. Beyond her surfing career, she is a passionate advocate for personal growth, women's empowerment, and making a difference through motivational speaking. Off the surfboard, Layne shares her life with rock star husband Kirk Pengilly of INXS In this episode, Jess and Layne dive deep into how she was able to shift from fear to love as she struggled with her sense of ...

Mar 11, 202551 minSeason 5Ep. 6

Michelle Brasier 'I didn't see that coming'

In this heartfelt and deeply honest episode, Jess sits down with comedian, actor, and musician Michelle Brasier to explore the complexities of grief, loss, and finding light in the darkest moments. Michelle opens up about losing both her father and brother to cancer only to be told that she herself has a 97% chance of developing it. Michelle’s unique perspective reminds us that joy and sorrow can coexist, and that humor is not just an escape but a tool for healing. Whether you’ve experienced los...

Mar 04, 202544 minSeason 5Ep. 5

Guy Pearce ‘I was devastated about that’

Award-winning actor Guy Pearce has graced our screens for 40 years, from his breakout role as Mike in Neighbours to an acclaimed career across film, television, and theatre both in Australia and internationally. Beyond acting, he's also a musician and a proud dad to his son, Monte In this episode, Guy and Jess dive into how fatherhood has transformed his life and why vulnerability is essential to both his parenting and career. He also reveals what makes a script irresistible to him, the unexpect...

Feb 25, 202534 minSeason 5Ep. 4

Mahalia Barnes 'That was probably the darkest period for me'

Mahalia Barnes has been in and around music her entire life. A powerhouse soul and blues vocalist and the daughter of Jimmy & Jane Barnes, Mahalia was destined for the stage. She’s toured alongside legends like Bruce Springsteen and Bryan Adams, among many others, and now Mahalia is stepping out of her comfort zone to take on an iconic role in Jesus Christ Superstar . In this episode Mahalia delves into her journey as a musician, opening up about personal struggles, family dynamics, and the ...

Feb 18, 202543 minSeason 5Ep. 3

Gabby Bernstein 'Ditch your Resolutions and do this instead'

Gabby Bernstein is a number one New York Times bestselling author, spiritual teacher, & a self love specialist! Oprah Winfrey calls her a ‘next generation thought leader’ and her latest book ‘Self Help’ is the ultimate guide to healing your life & re-thinking the patterns that hold you back. Gabby says the best practice for making our New Years resolutions stick is healing our inner beliefs. In this episode, Gabby demonstrates how transformation begins by addressing internal belief syste...

Feb 11, 202523 minSeason 5Ep. 2

Tanya Hennessy ‘Part of me wishes I'd never spoken about it’

Tanya Hennessy is a bestselling author, comedian, and award-winning content creator known for her hilariously relatable take on everyday life. With her sharp wit and candid humor, she has become a favorite across social media, radio, and live stages. In this episode, Tanya opens up about her struggles with self-worth, the unexpected challenges of newlywed life, and why she chose skincare over sex on her honeymoon. Plus Jess and Tanya share their deeply personal IVF experiences and recount the sh...

Feb 04, 202537 minSeason 5Ep. 1

BIG Summer Book Club: Trailblazing Women + A candid Conversation with Wendy Harmer

Summer is here, and if you're looking for your next read, Jess has you covered! In this episode of the Big Summer Book Club, Jess shares the inspiring Women's stories that have struck a chord with her. These books hold the power to spark small yet impactful changes, paving the way for a more meaningful life—just the inspiration you might be seeking for 2025! Plus, Jess dives deep with incredible authors to explore their work, their lives, and so much more! One of these authors is Wendy Harmer, w...

Jan 28, 202536 minSeason 4Ep. 60

BIG Summer Book Club: Personal Growth & Becoming Your Best Self + A Conversation with Megan Dalla-Camina

Summer is here, and if you're looking for your next read, Jess has you covered! In this episode of the Big Summer Book Club, Jess shares her favourite Personal Growth books, filled with valuable life lessons that have stayed with her and helped her strive to become the best version of herself. Plus, Jess dives deep with incredible authors to explore their work, their lives, and so much more! One of these authors is Megan Dalla-Camina, whose incredible book Women Rising helps you recognise and re...

Jan 21, 202541 minSeason 4Ep. 59

BIG Summer Book Club: Powerful Memoirs + An Inspiring Conversation with Jelena Dokic

Summer is here, and if you're looking for your next read, Jess has you covered! In this episode of the Big Summer Book Club, Jess shares the memoirs that have captivated her. We all have a story inside of us and there's so much we can learn from each others stories. Plus, Jess dives deep with incredible authors to explore their work, their lives, and so much more! One of these authors is Jelena Dokic, whose powerful memoir Fearless offers inspirational advice and a message of strength, all in Je...

Jan 14, 202549 minSeason 4Ep. 58

BIG Summer Book Club : Uplifting reads for Mental Wellbeing + a deep dive with Julie Goodwin

Summer is here, and if you're looking for your next read, Jess has you covered! In this episode of the Big Summer Book Club, Jess shares the books that have been a source of strength, inspiration, and hope during challenging times, offering her invaluable support for her mental well-being. Plus, Jess dives deep with incredible authors to explore their work, their lives, and so much more! One of these authors is Julie Goodwin whose incredible memoir Your Time Starts Now is both candid and deeply ...

Jan 07, 202550 minSeason 4Ep. 57

BIG Summer Book Club: Jess's Fiction Faves + a deep dive with Liane Moriarty

Summer is here, and if you're looking for your next read, Jess has you covered! In this episode of the Big Summer Book Club, Jess shares her favorite fiction books that have had an impact on her life. Plus, Jess dives deep with incredible authors to explore their work, their lives, and so much more! One of these authors is Liane Moriarty, whose book Here One Moment poses the thought-provoking question: If you knew when you were going to die, what would you do differently? Our hope is this series...

Dec 31, 202442 minSeason 4Ep. 56

BIG Summer Book Club : Unlocking Self Acceptance + a deep dive with Alison Daddo

Summer is here, and if you're looking for your next read, Jess has you covered! In this episode of the Big Summer Book Club, Jess explores the theme of being comfortable in your own skin, and shares the books that have shaped her life. Plus, Jess dives deep with incredible authors to explore their work, their lives, and so much more! One of these authors is Alison Brahe- Daddo whose book 'Queen Menopause' is all about finding your majesty in the mayhem. Our hope is this series will inspire you t...

Dec 24, 202448 minSeason 4Ep. 55

BIG Summer Book Club : Exploring Sex, Desire, and Life as a Madam with Antonia Murphy

Summer is here, and if you're looking for your next read, Jess has you covered! This is the first edition of the Big Summer Book Club, where Jess shares the books that have shaped her life. In each episode Jess explores a different theme, sharing personal reflections on how these stories have shaped her values and experiences. Her insights are sure to inspire you to rediscover the joy of summer reading—and perhaps uncover your own life-changing books along the way. Plus, Jess picks the brains of...

Dec 17, 202448 minSeason 4Ep. 54

Liz Ellis 'That really did test me'

Liz Ellis is arguably Australia's most well-known, and most successful netballer. She played for the national Australian team for 15 years, and was captain for four years, and is now the head of Netball Australial. This year she added 'Queen of the Jungle' to her list of accolades, after winning her season of I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! But as Liz herself shares, the hard work and determination that it takes to become a professional athlete can have surprising effects on your personal l...

Dec 10, 202438 minSeason 4Ep. 53
Hosted on Omny Studio
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android