Big Small Talk

Billionaire Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez 50 million dollar wedding creates an online stir from the guest list, styling choices and protests. The Federal Court rules that the ABC had unlawfully sacked journalist Antoinette Lattouf. Glastonbury festival in the UK feels particularly politically charged this year with many acts choosing to speak on Palestine. Zohran Mamdani wins the NYC mayoral election primary. Anna Wintour steps down as the editor in chief of Vogue after nearly 40 years.

Lets talk about the theory that helped catapult therapy speak and therapytok into the online mainstream - attachment styles. Today I am joined by Rashida Dungarwalla the founder and Principal Psychologist of Flow State Space - which is a psychology practice in Surry Hills, Sydney. We chat about the origins of the theory, the different styles and the limitations of putting too much down to ones attachment style.

In part two we discuss how the legal trials took place, which 'witch tests' the court used, why this went unchecked and how long it took until people began to express their remorse and how this has been reflected on in history.

US bombs Iran to wipe out potential nuclear weaponry, Trump declares ceasefire. The trial of Erin Patterson, the poison mushroom lady, nears its end. New Australian tax reform announcement. Justin and Hailey Bieber divorce rumours amidst bizarre string of Instagram posts, captions and viral paparazzi moment.

I am very excited to have the gorgeous Laura Henshaw, co-founder and CEO of KIC app and co-host of KICPOD, as the Small Talk guest this week! We first have to discuss the very exciting news of her pregnancy and how she is feeling after her series 'Do I Want Kids?'. But the crux of todays episode is actually to pick Laura's brain on all the different 'wellness' trends that I am being bombarded with online - from #diettok to #skinnytok to gut health. How do we know which ones are toxic? What is the effect of these trends? TULA DRINKS (my friends adorable looking, delicious, non-alcoholic drinks brand that we're sipping on!) Use the code SMALLTALK for one month free when you sign up to Kic on a monthly subscription at www.kicapp.com. Available for new and returning users only. Expires September 30th, 2025.

We know this one is a little different and certainly not something the was hitting he headlines in our lifetime! However, the Witch Trials are a fascinating part of history that is continually referred to and remains relevant to our modern day and continually experiences resurgences in our pop culture. So in part one, we look at the origins of witches, what led to the Salem witch trials, who the 'afflicted' girls were and who were among the first to be accused. We also see parallels to our modern day in the way women and minorities were targeted and conservatism weaponised.

Another huge week in the news. An update on the ICE raids, deployment of the national guard, protests and curfew enforced in LA. Sabrina Carpenters new album cover creates massive online controversy. Israel launched multiple strikes across Iran and they have now responded with further attacks. Australian influencer Indy Clinton hires a private investigator to find the anonymous trolls who have been attacking her online. Trump administration puts AUKUS under review. Call Her Daddy host, Alex Cooper, reveals in new documentary that she was sexually assaulted by her college Soccer Coach for years.

Today I am joined by Two Broke Chicks to chat all things friendship. We get messages every week asking us for advice on how to make friends as an adult, when to know you've outgrown a friendship, remaining friends with exes and how to have tough conversations with friends. So who better to reach out to than best friend duo, Al and Sal, the authors of the book 'Finding Your People'! Finding Your People Two Broke Chicks

BIG episode this week! Sydney Sweeney's decision to release a soap that has her actual bathwater in it has sparked debate over if she has 'set feminism back decades'. Elon Musk and Trump are in the midst of a messy break up, meanwhile an Australian journalist is purposefully shot by police with rubber bullet during LA protests. Judge dismisses Justin Baldoni's $400 million dollar countersuit to Blake Lively. Israel seizes Gaza aid ship, the Freedom Flotilla, carrying Greta Thunberg and other prominent figures. White Lotus stars Aimee Lou Wood and Walton Goggins give Variety an interview to put feud rumours to rest. An Australian study reveals 2 out 3 men have committed intimate partner violence.

Comedian, performer and author of best selling book 'All I Ever Wanted Was To be Hot' (yes, correct title!!) joins me in studio to discuss cosmetic surgeries and the latest online phenomenon, 'instagram face', as inspired by this fantastic New Yorker article. Check out Lucinda's book HERE and her socials HERE

In part two we look at the ripple effect of the Bostons Globes articles across the US and how the church reacted. We then shifted to looking at the global impact, particularly in Ireland. Then the response in Australia, the royal commission, it's findings and how this is relevant today.

Taylor Swift has successfully regained control of her music, ending the feud that inspired her re-recordings and the era tour. Labor government green lights a major gas project until 2070. ELF cosmetics purchases Hailey's makeup and skincare brand 'Rhode' for US 1 Billion. Harvard and Trump's legal confrontation intensifies, Elon Musk insinuates fall out and announces resignation from the White House. A first nations man dies in Police custody in the Northern Territory. Plus, a Q+A on the debate over Luke Bateman's book deal.

In this episode I am joined by Georgia Grace (otherwise known as GSpot) who is a certified sex and relationships therapist to talk all about the taboo topic of age gap relationships! Is it fair to judge age gap relationships? What makes it acceptable/unacceptable? Have new movies like Baby Girl changed perspectives? How does attraction play into this? For more of Georgia's incredible insights and expertise, follow her here!

In this months Big Talk series we take a look at the incredible 'spotlight' journalists at the Boston Globe who back in 2003 uncovered the systemic cover up of child sexual abuse at the hands of thousands of priests world wide. In part one, we explain at the structure of the Catholic church as well as it's resources and wealth. Then, we look into the first priest uncovered, John Geoghan. We delve into exactly how the church moved him around and he 'rehab' centres they sent him to. Then, the actual investigation and the obstacles the journalists faced.

Despite Hailey Bieber making the cover of Vogue, her husband Justin Bieber's comments online steal the headlines. An update on the Liberal and National party break up. Lorde is the cover star for Rolling Stone, talking about her new album, coming off contraceptive and her gender. Prime Minister Albanese speaks on Gaza. Chris Hughes and Jojo Siwa confirm romance. NSW GP's to now diagnose ADHD.

In this New York City episode I sit down with stand up comedian legend Gabby Bryan. Famous for her crowd work and gritting her teeth on the big apple, she was the perfect person to chat to about the world of comedy, being a woman in the industry, if trauma is what makes people funny and if anything should be off limits in comedy.

Nine years after Kim Kardashian was violently robbed in Paris for her diamonds, the trial commences. The Liberals and Nationals split, The Greens party has a new leader. Australian Fashion Week attendees and interviews causes debate online. New abortion laws pass in NSW. Cassie takes the stand during Diddy's trial. In the Q+A, thoughts on the Clementine Ford and Abbey Chatfield online conflict.

Very excited to have internet best friend and incredible author ⁠Eli Rallo⁠ join me at the Spotify Studios in NYC to give all the best advice on all things moving on and dating. ⁠Pre Order: Does Anyone Else Feel This Way? ⁠ ⁠I Didn't Know I Needed This: The New Rules For Flirting, Feeling And Finding Yourself ⁠

Albanese announces his cabinet, Adam Bandt loses his seat Sussan Ley is appointed head of the Liberal Party. Sean Combs (Diddy) Trial finally begins in Manhattan, the jury is finalised and opening statements given. Pope Leo XIV from Chicago is elected post conclave. After being subpoenaed in the Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni case, Taylor Swifts team releases a strong statement. Q+A about what is happening between India and Pakistan.

Welcome to our first Small Talk episode recorded in New York! I was so lucky to get to chat to Claire Parker and Ashley Hamilton from the ⁠Celebrity Memoir Bookclub⁠ podcast. As comedians and successful pop culture connoisseurs, I thought they would be the perfect people to chat to about gossiping. Why do we love gossip? Can you really be above it? Is the ability to gossip (within reason) important to establishing social norms and reputations? What about celebrities and reality TV?

Our thoughts on the Labor party win, Greens result and Liberal defeat. Coverage of the 2025 Met Gala and explanation of this years politically charged theme. Nagi vs Brooki caramel slice recipe debate intensifies. Erin Patterson, charged for murder after feeding her in-laws death cap mushrooms in 2023 is now on trial.

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.