Big Small Talk

Today Sarah sits down with Jack and Falcs from The Inspired Unemployed to chat about Tall Poppy Syndrome. They discuss why being an 'Aussie battler' is so engrained in our culture, rooting for the underdog and why people feel bitter when they see others are over-achieving. Also, being in the public eye, starting businesses and imposter syndrome. If you didn't know, Sarah got her start in podcasting at 21 years old after she was tapped on the shoulder by Spotify who were looking for help on a new show they were developing with comedy duo and influencers - The Inspired Unemployed. It was years of building that show with Jack and Falcs that gave her enough experience and confidence to then start Big Small Talk. Also, don't worry Inspired fans, she's working on getting their show back in studio soon too!

It's time to take a look at the real life story of succession. We examine the roles the kids played in the businesses and the irrevocable trust. Then, the estrangement, the backstabbing and the never ending plot twists as the eldest son, Lachlan, and Rupert Murdoch attempt to take voting rights and power away from the other three children. Finally, how this all played out in court and the damage caused to one of the most powerful, richest families in the world.

Jojo Siwa breaks it off with our friend, Aussie influencer and podcaster Kath Ebbs following a controversial season Big Brother UK where she had a close relationship with Love Island contestant, Chris Hughes. Welcome to Country is booed during an ANZAC day dawn service in Melbourne, sparking debate. Charli XCX ends Brat Summer and passes the baton to Lorde. An update on the Australian election and recent debates. Harvey Weinstein's retrial begins.

Today I chat to the lovely Kayla Jade, a very well known OF creator and TikTok star (over 2 million followers!) all about feminism, her story and the ethics of sex work and social media. Of course, we also get the background story on where 'Peggy Sue' came from! Kayla's TikTok Kayla's New Podcast - Storytime With Kayla Jade

After re-watching succession and spending time in the US, we thought it was about time we truly looked into the most powerful man in the world, Rupert Murdoch. In part one, we look at Rupert's early life, career, how he expanded the family business, his multiple marriages, children and creation of Fox News.

Pope Francis passes away on the Easter Long Weekend. Pop Star Tate McRae faces backlash choosing to collaborate with country music star Morgan Wallen. Update on Australian election campaign and policies. Gayle King defends her trip to space with Katy Perry and Amanda Nguyen's story overlooked. Harvard goes head to head with the Trump administration.

Today we talk about the TikTok trend, 'rejection therapy'. Where people put themselves in embarrassing situations and film it to overcome their fears of judgement and others. Do we think it's annoying? Has it gone too far? What is the psychological merit in exposure therapy? What are our own experiences with rejection? Joining us today are our friends Kath Ebbs and Carmen Azzopardi (zigs mom) who are also the hosts of the podcast I've Always Said That. If you have a topic you want Small Talk to cover next - leave a comment! Or message bigsmalltalk_pod.

Coachella Weekend One performances and recap, Australian Election policy update, White Lotus Star Aimee Lou Wood defends herself after 'mean and unfunny' SNL sketch about her teeth, Trumps Tariff pause and insider trading, Katy Perry returns to earth after space trip and NSW Doctors Strike.

We've all heard of it, the 'Let Them Theory' has taken the world by storm. Popularised by Mel Robins, the simple phrase has transformed peoples lives as they learn that it's okay that you can't control other people, only your own reaction. Today I again chat to my wise friend, Jemma (host of The Psychology Of Your 20s) about why everyone is so obsessed with the phrase, what it encapsulates and why it is still flawed.

The Australian Electoral Commission reviews Abbie Chatfield's podcast interviews with Adam Bandt and PM Albanese. Russell Brand has been charged with multiple accounts of sexual assault in the UK, following the 2023 joint investigation by the London Times and Channel 4. New policy announcements and updates ahead of the election. Anna Paul gives lengthy response to Mikaela Testa's recent podcast episode. Trump starts a trade war that risks global recession and a US senator gives a 25 hour speech. Alix Earle sues Gymshark for 1 million.

In this episode I chat to journalist and podcaster, Soaliha about an article she wrote for Missing Perspectives - The 'Old Money' Aesthetic Taking Over Our Feeds Is A Sign Of Something More Sinister'. We chat about how these trends reflect a swing towards more conservative thinking, the Pretty Little Thing rebrand, nostalgia for 'whiter' times and how fashion shapes politics.

In this episode we're speaking to the leader of the Greens Party, Adam Bandt. This interview has been broken down into two parts. Hannah first discusses topics such a minority government, healthcare and climate change. Next, Sarah asks more personal questions about his start in politics and his consumption habits. This episode is part of a series where we asked all three major party leaders to sit down with us, we are so thankful both the Prime Minister and Adam Bandt accepted the offer. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton declined.

We're live from NYC! Today we're recording from the very cool Spotify Studios in the World Trade Centre! We discuss the absurd group chat Trumps administration had to discuss their war plans in which they accidentally added in a journalist. Chappell Roan discussing her relationship, views and motherhood on Call Her Daddy. The budget lock up, what was in it and why Big Small Talk and Cheek made headlines this week. The impact of the new Netflix series Adolescence. The Salmon Industry Protection Bill controversy. Finally, the Ariana Grande new music and short film.

In this episode we're speaking to the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese. This interview has been broken down into two parts. Hannah first discusses policy platforms, election campaigns and what the makeup of the Australian parliament could be over the next three years. Next, Sarah asks for his take on the new vs legacy media debate as well as the gender and cultural divides we're feeling right now.  This interview took place in parliament house, so you'll hear the ringing of bells occur twice in this interview. That signals a politician has four minutes to vote. When the bells ring the first time, the PM needs to leave the interview immediately - and our time with him is cut down. You'll notice at this point that we switch interviewers, from Hannah to Sarah, in order to maximise both of our question time. Unfortunately this does mean we lost the opportunity to ask several questions we had prepared to ask the Prime Minister.

Here is a bonus episode explaining just how voting works in Australia and the political parties! So if you need the refresher or new to politics, this ones for you! It's also great to listen to ahead of our two big bonus interview episodes incoming!

Thank you to Bumble for inspiring this episode! We want to talk about dating and if you can truly end up happy with someone who has different core values than you do. In this episode we discuss money, family, ambition, freedom, all the areas of your life that your values and belief systems show up in.  By extension, we also chat about when it's necessary to have points of differences. Let us know what topics you would like us to talk about next on bigsmalltalk_pod or in the comment section

In part two we get to what actually happened the day our Prime Minister disappeared - who was he with? What he was doing? Why did he go swimming? What did the search party cover? We then look at all the different conspiracy theories surrounding his death. Was he a spy? Did he fake his death? Was he kidnapped? We look into why all these theories have had such staying power over the year. Finally, his legacy and the fact that he perhaps should be remembered for much more than just his disappearance.

Peter Dutton says he would like to call a referendum and also receives backlash for using a slur. Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez's new album has been released causing Hailey Bieber hate to once again circulate online. NASA Astronauts return to earth a year later after fears of being stranded in space. Mikaela Testa has released a explosive 2 hour long podcast episode on Youtube about her ex-friend and ex-boyfriend, Anna Paul and her brother Atis. ACT integrity commission found former judge who presided over the inquiry of Bruce Lehrmann case engaged in corrupt conduct.

If you're a plugged in person then this episode is required listening.  The news cycle is increasingly negative and chaotic and you need to look after yourself.  In this episode I sit down with my brilliant friend Jemma, who is also the host of the wildly popular podcast ‘The Psychology Of Your 20's' and Mantra.  Jemma explains why we're feeling anxious, the importance of disconnecting, misplaced guilt and stoicism.  Let us know what topics you would like us to talk about next on bigsmalltalk_pod or in the comment section

Politics nerds this ones for you! But if you're not a politics nerd, I promise you will still find this interesting. Back in 1967, in the midst of the Vietnam War, our Prime Minister Harold Holt went for a swim and never came back. The mysterious loss of our nations leader has led to endless conspiracies, intrigue and confusion. In this episode we look at who Harold actually was, his popularity and the historical context in the lead up to his disappearance.

An update on Trump - the tariffs, tesla showroom at the White House, BLM mural pulled down and Palestinian activist arrested. Meghan Markle makes her return to the podcasting world with a new show as does her father in law, King Charles. The High Courts decision on a native title case. The Australian Grand Prix winners and sponsors. Ukraine's agreement to a ceasefire proposal as the US stops aid. Kanye West released song that features both P.Diddy and his daughter North West.

Joined this week by an OG ‘Girlboss' Michelle Battersby, the first hire at Bumble in Australia at 25 years old who took the US handbook and became the very successful Marketing Director who then left and co-founded her own start up, Sunroom.  Sarah and Michelle open up about hustle culture, 2016 feminism, being a mum and wanting to be a mum in business, having to act ‘like a man' to be taken seriously and how the pendulum has now swung the other way with the rise of lifestyle, traditional content.  Let us know what topics you would like us to talk about next on bigsmalltalk_pod or in the comment section

21 year old Millie Bobby Brown calls out journalists and online comments for saying she looks 'old', thoughts on Meghan Markle's new Netflix show, Cycle Alfred impact in QLD, Giggly Squad podcast hosts face backlash for Megan Thee Stallion red carpet interview, WA election results, support continues for Chappell Roan after her Grammy's speech and an update on phase two of the Gaza ceasefire.

Let's talk about cheating and the rise of the term ‘microcheating'. Microcheating, by definition, is everything that is uncomfortable or disrespectful without actually crossing the line into physical cheating. We want to explore if this new tik tok term is just a rebrand of ‘boundaries' and ‘emotional cheating'. Also, why do we put so much emphasis on cheating when usually it's the behaviours leading up to that which are just as hurtful?  Let us know what topics you would like us to talk about next on bigsmalltalk_pod or in the comment section

It's time to recap the Oscars - who won, who hosted, who was snubbed and what's making headlines. The world reacts to Trump and JD Vance's tense and immature conduct when dealing with Ukraine's Prime Minister, Zelenskyy. The absurd AI video advertising 'Trump's Gaza' and decision to aid Andrew Tate. Katy Perry is going to Space thanks to Jeff Bezos. Radio talent Marty Sheargold fired over sexist commentary. ASIO warns about upcoming election interference concerns and Michelle Trachtenberg  found dead at 39.

Are we the way we are because of the order we were born into? That is the popular theory we want to discuss today.  Are we classic eldest daughters? Have we been parentified? What about middle children? Or if there's a big age gap? Or if your sibling needs extra attention?  But it doesn't end there! What about if sibling order theory could help us decide who we're compatible with in dating?  We could honestly talk about this for days.  Let us know what topics you would like us to talk about next on bigsmalltalk_pod or in the comment section

In part two, we look at how Schapelle coped after her verdict, her prison conditions, the media scrutiny on her family, the mental toll it took and where is now.

Fitness mogul and influencer Kayla Itsines faces backlash for the irony of her criticising the ‘sexualisation' of the industry.  Today marks 3 years since Russia invaded Ukraine, Trump has backlipped on his support and is in talks with Putin.  Rihanna does a rare interview with Harpers Bazaar, opening up about her plans for new music, her businesses and motherhood. Meanwhile, her husband A$AP Rocky is found not guilty.  Spanish Football coach Luis Rubiales is found guilty of sexual assault.  The Hollywood Reporter faces criticism for its illustration of Blake Lively on their recent cover, as well as Ryan Reynolds for his joke at the SNL 50. 

A tiktok that received hundreds of thousands of likes and shares and was reported on widely at the time asked - when women get too powerful, does the skinny trend come back? It does feel that way but is it actually true? We look into why we think it could be a little more complex than that.  Let us know what topics you would like us to talk about next on bigsmalltalk_pod or in the comment section

Big Talk is back for 2025! Our first episode topic was a no-brainer, it's one of the most hotly contested Australian news saga's of our generation - Schapelle Corby. Schapelle was a 27 year old Australian girl who got caught at a Bali airport with 4kg of marijuana in her boogie board bag and was faced with the death penalty. Taking us back to 2005, we look at her family, her holiday plans, the imprisonment, how the trial played out and the verdict. As well as the way the Australian media was obsessive and relentless in deciding whether or not she was guilty.

Kanye West and his wife reportedly headed for divorce amidst his antisemetic tirade, disgraceful Super Bowl ad and merch. Prime Minister Albanese negotiates with Trump as trade wars ramp up and new tariffs are announced. Benny Blanco and Selena Gomez interview and announce a joint album. Antoinette Latouff sues ABC for unlawful termination. Alleged assassin of United Healthcare CEO, Luigi, makes his first public statement to say thanks for the support. An explanation of why Peter Dutton is being called ‘Peggy Sue'.

A bonus episode treat! Thanks to Prime Video, we got to chat about our favourite TV show of all time, #Fleabag, and why we think Phoebe Waller-Bridge is a genius for creating the most perfectly imperfect main character. Plus, our thoughts on the #TheMarvellousMrsMaisel and her shitty husband, finding career success and falling into feminism. 

‘Pick Me Girl' is a scathing label born online a few years ago to describe women who value male attention above anything else.  We want to assess what this label is and suggest that actually, we're all pick-me's. It's something ingrained in all us that we hate to admit, but it's actually good to know and recognise.  Let us know what topics you would like us to talk about next on bigsmalltalk_pod or in the comment section

The symbolism of Kendrick Lamar's halftime performance, Travis Kelce's comments and Taylor Swift boo'ed. Trumps announcement for US planning to 'take over' Gaza and banning transgender women from sports. Anna Paul's apology video after recent 'takedown'. Sam Kerr on trial for calling cop stupid and white. A$AP Rocky trial facing 24 years in prison.

Welcome to the first episode of Small Talk!  Small Talk is a new series that allows us to contribute to other important, relevant conversations that are dominating our algorithms and group chats but aren't necessarily a news headline.  For our first episode, which aptly publishes on Sarah's 27th birthday, we wanted to ease in by chatting about all the stress revolving around the concept of the ‘quarter-life crisis' and re-assessing those self-imposted timelines.  Let us know what topics you would like us to talk about next on bigsmalltalk_pod or in the comment section

We recap all the wins, news and performances from the Grammy's, give a rundown on the current polling and policies for Australia's major parties, discuss Justin Baldoni's 6-minute voice memo to Blake Lively and his new website, Trumps second week in office and Deepseek.

We're back!! We unpack the New York Times exposé detailing Blake Lively being the target of an online smear campaign orchestrated by Justin Baldoni and his studios, Blake suing for sexual harassment and Justin's 400 million dollar countersuit. We also cover Trump's inauguration and executive orders, recent celebrity breakups and engagements, the TikTok ban, Meta removing fact-checking, the impact of the LA wildfires, Israel and Hamas ceasefire and Australia Day.

Jay Z has been named in a civil lawsuit alongside Diddy for allegedly sexually assaulting a 13-year-old, Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan reportedly breakup, United Healthcare CEO was assassinated in broad daylight, Spotify Wrapped, South Korea's President invoked Martial law for approx 6 hours and Alex Cooper launches new show and beverage line.

The 2024 TikTok Awards, teens die from methanol poisoning in Laos, backlash from Billboard's 'Best Pop Stars of The 21st Century' list, Australian government passes social media ban, Connor McGregor found liable and Pauline Hanson.

Recap of the Aria awards, government proposes social duty of care, Australian influencer family investigated for drugging one-year-old, update on Gaza, Liam Payne's funeral and government introduces electoral reform.

In part 2, we look at the different rumours Lindy Chamberlain was subject to, her fourth child, appeals, new evidence, the media doing backflips, pop culture references and where they all are now.

New Zealand protests after government introduces a bill to change the interpretation of the Treaty of Waitangi; People has announced John Krasinski as the Sexiest Man Alive for 2024, Alan Jones is charged with 24 offences and will face court in December, cinema is back with the release of Wicked and Gladiator 2, Trump's cabinet is becoming scarier by the day, and Jake Paul fights Mike Tyson.

You have likely heard the line “A Dingo's got my baby,” but you might not know all the details from one of Australia's most infamous news stories. It is truly one of the greatest miscarriages of justice to date. In part one, we introduce a young mother, Lindy Chamberlain, and explain what happened on the night her 9-week-old baby Azaria was taken by a Dingo while on holiday in Uluru. We then look at the gruesome trial by media that ensued, how the police failed Lindy and her family and how the actual trial unfolded.

The United States has elected Donald Trump as the next president, OnlyFans creator Bonnie Blue has visa cancelled over plan to sleep with ‘barely legal' boys at Schoolies, three charged in relation to Liam Payne's death, Brianna Chickenfry turns down a $12 million NDA offer to tell-all about abusive ex Zach Bryan, and the 2025 Grammy Nominations are announced.

The final days of the campaign before the US election, Margot Robbie and Tom Ackerley welcome their first child, students expelled from St Paul's College after assault and Liberal student councilors accused of ripping up Red Zone Report, Saoirse Ronan responds to viral moment on The Graham Norton Show, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese receives flight upgrades from QANTAS, Heidi Klum's iconic Halloween party and the Wicked premiere in Sydney.

Today is election day. We will soon find out if Trump wins or if Trump decides he won! We wanted to put this together so that you can feel empowered to follow along and have your own conversations this week. We take it back to basics to outline how voting actually works in the US. We discuss the Electoral College, the two-party system, optional voting, swing states and what will happen next.

Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry's messy breakup, the Menendez brothers resentencing, Stevie Nicks comments on the new wave of celebrities, the QLD election and what it means for abortion rights, Lilly Allen selling feet pics on OnlyFans, US election campaign update & Timothee Chalamet lookalike competition.

In part 2, we introduce Linda Tripp and her betrayal, FBI involvement, the President's impeachment and re-examine the media frenzy that kickstarted global slut shaming.  https://www.instagram.com/bigsmalltalk_pod/

Former member of One Direction, Liam Payne, has died at age 31, Elon Musk offers money to swing state voters by signing an online petition protecting the First and Second Amendment, Victoria's Secret fashion show returns after five years, King Charles arrives in Australia and to a protest from First Nations Senator Lidia Thorpe, and the latest information on Gaza, Lebanon and Israel.

Welcome to Big Talk! The series where we revisit the most shocking headlines of the past that have shaped the world we know today. In part one, we introduce President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary, Bill's run for President, The Whitewater Investigation, the death of Vince Foster, Paula Jones' sexual harassment case and the infamous affair between the most powerful man in the world and a 21-year-old intern, Monica Lewinsky.  https://www.instagram.com/bigsmalltalk_pod/

Hurricane Milton hits Florida and creators ignore evacuation orders to make content, 13 US state lawsuits are accusing TikTok of damage to children's mental health, Riley Keough has published Lisa Marie Presley's posthumous memoir, Missing New Zealand Father and kids are spotted for the first time in years, Netflix's ‘Nobody Wants This' renewed for season 2, and an alleged third assassination attempt on Donald Trump. https://www.instagram.com/bigsmalltalk_pod/