The Briefing

Sussan Ley is under siege. Faced with selling the Coalition’s new energy policy, the Opposition Leader is fighting for survival with renewed leadership speculation and the party again recording plummeting polling numbers. In this special edition of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Sussan Ley for a revealing conversation about net zero, values over votes and her late mother’s timely advice. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Coalition releases energy plan with immigration up next, almost 70 schools closed due to asbestos fears, ‘traitor’ congresswoman hits out at Trump ahead of Epstein file vote, phone use linked to skyrocketing rates of dementia in young people, and a Labubu movie is on the way! Deep Dive: The first generation raised with AI woven into daily life and instant communication as the default is officially entering the workforce. Gen Alpha’s arrival brings a fifth generation into Australian workplaces, and in this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by psychologist and HR specialist Natalie Petruzziello to unpack what they’ll be like as your co-workers and what their arrival means for the future of work. Further listening from headlines: Wtf is a Labubu? Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wicked: For Good is hitting screens this week, and whether you’re a fan or not, you can’t deny the absolute juggernaut that has been the Wicked movie press tour. Headlined by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the press tour last year 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. In this bonus episode of The Briefing, we revisit Sacha Barbour Gatt's chat with LiSTNR Entertainment's Justin Hill where they broke down the insanity of the Wicked press tour at the time and why it got people so riled up. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zoe Terakes made history as Marvel’s first trans actor and you might also know them from Wentworth or the Netflix hit Nine Perfect Strangers, starring alongside Nicole Kidman. The trans masculine actor and newly minted author’s new book, Eros: Queer Myths for Lovers, explores reclaiming voice, desire and autonomy. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Zoe shares for the first time how they were groomed as a young actor and what sets American performers apart from Australians. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO EAT: Pesto lasagne TO TRY: Lush Glen Coco facemask TO LISTEN: Viva Betty the podcast TO WATCH: Fleabag on Prime Video Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As AC/DC and Oasis take over Australia... a whole new generation is falling in love with old school music. So, what’s behind this resurgence of rock gods from the 1980’s and 90’s? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Aussie rock legend James Reyne, who’s about to head out of a new tour. He shares his love of live performance and why he couldn’t be happier about seeing a whole new generation of fans in the audience. Headlines: The ex-boyfriend of 28-year-old Molly Ticehurst has pleaded guilty to her murder, Retail groups in Victoria have welcomed a new government crackdown on offenders who assault retail workers, and the former president of Spain’s National Football Federation, who made headlines in Sydney in 2023, has been egged during the launch of his new book. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Sussan Ley survives net zero week, people working with kids to be tracked on national register, Oasis and Jelly Roll concerts hit by measles cases, Kyle Sandilands is threatening to quit radio, and Apple has released an iPhone sock to widespread amusement. Deep Dive: Ryan Murphy's new legal drama All’s Fair starring Kim Kardashian, has been hit with brutal reviews, including a rare zero-star rating, with some calling it the ultimate “second-screen show.” As streamers churn out more content designed to be watched while scrolling, the debate is growing over whether this style of TV is diluting quality or simply reflecting how we actually watch. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with LiSTNR Entertainment’s Amy Kimball about the rise of second-screen viewing and whether All’s Fair really deserves the no-stars treatment. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Prince Harry met Meghan Markle in 2016, it looked like a modern royal fairytale. Instead, it became one of the most explosive feuds in the crowns history. This bitter clash between tradition and independence, has accusations of racism and tabloid wars from Kate-Meghan tensions, to claims Charles cut Harry off. It even spawned a Wikipedia page dedicated to 'Megxit' - a play on Brexit. In this episode of The Beefing, Alexandria Funnell unpacks how this feud led to Harry and Meghan leaving the UK, moving to the US, sitting down with Oprah, a Netflix docuseries and Harry’s memoir Spare - that fractured the monarchy. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Liberals have officially dumped their 2050 net zero target, joining the Nationals, and sparking fresh chaos inside the Coalition. So what does this mean for the party’s future… and for Sussan Ley’s leadership? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with Saturday Paper Special Correspondent Jason Koutsoukis to unpack the fallout. Headlines: Neo Nazi leader Thomas Sewell has been released from prison, a 17-year-old has been sentenced for the murder Vyleen White, and Australia’s first Treaty between First Peoples in Victoria and the Victorian Government has been signed. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom Image Credit: The Sydney Morning Herald/Alex EllinghausenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: New Epstein emails mentioning Trump released, Liberals poised to dump net zero after marathon meeting, AEC says it has no scope to block neo-Nazis from running in elections, Aussie fortune teller charged over $70 million fraud, and the Irwin's pay tribute to Steve on DWTS. Deep Dive: The Victorian Labor government has unveiled a hardline shift on youth crime - announcing that offenders as young as 14 could now face adult court and, in extreme cases, life behind bars. The move comes alongside a machete ban and tougher bail laws, marking an unusual stance for Labor as experts continue to warn that tougher penalties rarely deter young offenders. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Premier Jacinta Allan about whether the crackdown is about cutting crime or chasing votes ahead of next year’s state election. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every year Australians spend billions on Black Friday sales, but along with the bargains come hidden dangers. We reveal how to spot the scammers and the best way to bag a bargain. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by consumer law expert Jeannie Marie Paterson, on the best way to bag a bargain and your rights as a consumer if something goes wrong. Headlines: Anthony Albanese has announced a new landmark security treaty with Indonesia, there are reports from sources inside the Liberal party room meeting that Andrew Hastie says the Coalition should consider forcing a double dissolution election, and former CFMEU boss John Setka has been charged. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Liberal party to hash out net zero plans, Victoria and NSW announce new protest laws, man survives shark attack in WA, we've spent $1.4m on our former PMs this year and the staggering amount Aussies are dropping on hens' parties revealed. Deep Dive: New research shows two key groups of Australians are losing faith in democracy - young people and those living outside major cities. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith chats with Australia’s new high commissioner to the UK and McKinnon’s executive director Jay Weatherill about what’s behind this growing distrust and what it would take to win it back. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Jobs and Bill Gates built one of the fiercest rivalries in tech history - the battle between Apple and Microsoft. Their competition changed the modern world as we know it, giving us the Macintosh computer, the iPhone and revolutionised the personal computer. However, the pair share a lot of similarities. They were both college dropouts, both started their companies with a friend and both went on to become billionaires who defined the tech world. In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks how Jobs and Gates went from working together in the early days to feuding the decades-long debate over who really borrowed ideas from whom. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Skyrocketing specialist costs are forcing a growing number of Australians to delay or stop critical medical care and treatment. A new investigation by The Guardian has found a concerning lack of transparency regarding why specialists are charging so much. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by The Guardian Health reporter Natasha May, who explains what’s behind the increase in the costs and what your rights are as a patient. Headlines: The retiring RSL President has called for more Australian Defence Force support, Donald Trump has reportedly asked the Supreme Court to overturn a sexual assault verdict, and The Wiggles may have breached consumer law. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headline: Donald Trump threatening to sue BBC for $1 billion, more Libs reportedly threatening to quit frontbench over Net Zero, eight killed after explosion near major Indian landmark, Jacinta Nampijinpa Price backs out of anti-immigration rally, and Aussie researchers rubbish Tylenol autism claims. Deep Dive: The group behind a recent far-right rally outside NSW Parliament and which infiltrated March for Australia protests is now attempting to move into mainstream politics. Members of the National Socialist Network (NSN) are rebranding and preparing to contest future elections. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with leading far-right researcher Kaz Ross about how the NSN is seeking political legitimacy and whether they could gain real electoral support in Australia. Further listening from headlines: The 'future PM' taking on Sussan Ley is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, LiSTNR, or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Federal MP Zali Steggall is predicting the Liberal Party will be obliterated if it backs down on Net Zero. With a decision imminent this week from the embattled Opposition Leader over its policy stance. Zali says now is the time for Sussan Ley to stand up to the Nationals. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Zali Steggall, who says we are all paying the price for the lack of action on the climate crisis. Headlines: The United States Senate has voted to end a government shutdown, two senior BBC executives have resigned, and ANZ has recorded a 10% decline in yearly profits. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Coalition to meet this week to discuss Net Zero position, NSW police accused of ‘double standards’ as neo-Nazi rally outside Parliament House reviewed, more than 900,000 people evacuated as a super typhoon hits the Philippines, Princess Anne is in Melbourne today, and tributes flow for radio legend John Laws. Deep Dive: More than 200,000 Year 12 students are sitting their final exams right now - but as they prepare to choose what’s next, are universities still worth it? With rising costs, leadership scandals and claims they’re being run more like businesses than places of learning, higher education is under pressure to prove its value. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Western Sydney University Vice Chancellor Professor George Williams about whether uni still offers the ladder of opportunity it once promised. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

History was made this week. 34-year-old democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani has become New York's first Muslim Mayor, winning around half the vote in the biggest election turnout in more than 50 years. So how did he pull it off? Why has his campaign sent shockwaves around the world? And what lessons could Australian politicians take from his stunning victory? In this bonus episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling breaks it down with Simran Pasricha from Pedestrian TV. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel Tracina turned her celebrity obsession into a full time job, becoming a cultural correspondent for The Cheap Seats and being crowned one of Australians ‘most likeable’ voices in radio. Now, she’s stepping into one of the biggest hosting gigs in Aussie TV, Big Brother. It’s the show that revolutionised Australian reality television and this time around it’s live 24/7. Returning to its roots with live evictions and public voting; putting the power in the hands of the viewers. In this chat with Helen Smith, Mel shares her biggest celebrity run-ins with Margot Robbie and Jamie Lee Curtis and why our fascination with fame is so addictive. Weekend list with Chris Spyrou TO LISTEN: Oasis (first two albums) TO WATCH: Boots on Netflix TO DO: Join a social sport club TO DO: At home trivia on YouTube Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the same day he had his Royal titles stripped, another major setback for Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. He’s now been summoned to appear before a US congressional panel investigating Jeffrey Epstein. So, what happens next, and could this be the beginning of the end for the embattled Royal formally known as Prince Andrew... In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by monarchy expert, Associate Professor Cindy McCreery, who explains if Andrew has to give evidence and what this latest development means for the survivors of Epstein’s abuse and for a monarchy in crisis. Headlines: Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has broken her silence over renewed leadership speculation, a new report has revealed the cost of organised crime in Australia, and Tesla shareholders have approved a staggering $1 trillion pay deal for CEO Elon Musk. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Crackdown on dodgy auction tactics, Queensland nurse charged with raping two elderly women, Qantas reviewing battery policy after man catches fire and causes business lounge evacuation, audit finds Louvre museum managers prioritised buying high-profile art over security upgrades and Nick Kyrgios teases possible return to the Australian Open. Deep Dive: The algorithm shapes more than just what we see on our social media; it also decides what we listen to. With local artists making up less than ten percent of Australia’s music streams, a new push is urging listeners to take back control. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Ben Lee about the ‘Ausify Your Algo’ campaign that’s hoping to help Aussie music cut through the noise. Follow Tara on Instagram and listen to her award-winning podcast series 'Killer Charm' on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, LiSTNR or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The short-lived marriage between Britney Spears and Kevin Federline was chaotic, messy and impossible to escape - dominating tabloids and defining mid-2000s celebrity culture. Their split becoming the catalyst of Britney’s infamous public breakdown, playing out under the glare of flashing cameras and relentless scrutiny. Nearly twenty years later they’re back in the spotlight, with Kevin's new memoir You Thought You Knew hitting the shelves, just two years after Britney’s bestseller The Woman in Me. Both books tell wildly different versions of their shared past, each claiming to reveal what really happened behind the heartbreak and headlines. In this episode of The Beefing, Alexandria Funnell unpacks the long-running feud between Britney Spears and Kevin Federline - and how their dueling memoirs have reignited a cultural battle over fame, truth and who gets to profit from Britney’s story. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The nation’s top doctors and midwives are calling for a crackdown on free births – where women give birth at home without a medical professional present. There’s been a concerning increase in complications and deaths around freebirths, with some unqualified support workers misleading vulnerable mothers to be. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by the President of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr Nisha Khot, who explains why women need better support to make informed decisions about the best way to give birth safely. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Reasons for Erin Patterson’s appeal revealed, Donald Trump blames record US government shutdown for three Democratic victories, France suspends retail giant Shein over sale of child-like sex dolls, push for national inquiry into workplace racism, and tell us how you really feel ... Deep Dive: From Neo-Nazi's to Satanists, sadistic criminals are wreaking havoc via a new wave of online offending. They target vulnerable victims for notoriety and clout, coercing them to carry out horrific acts of self-harm, sexual abuse, animal cruelty, and suicide. In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Australian Federal Police Commander Helen Schneider about the extremists and the new task force catching them in their tracks. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senator David Pocock is calling out the federal government, saying it’s the most secretive in 30 years. With the Coalition self-imploding, the Independent Senator is calling the Albanese government to account, saying the public has a right to know what’s behind its lack of transparency. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Senator David Pocock, who is concerned about the Federal Government’s crackdown on freedom of information laws and its delay in releasing the long-awaited report into “jobs for mates”. Headlines: Investigations are continuing into what caused a plane to crash in Kentucky, New York City has elected its first Muslim mayor, and there are reports of another major Optus outage. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: ASIO boss warns of three countries willing to carry out assassinations on Australian soil, former US Vice President Dick Cheney dead at 84, CommBank and Temu among Australia’s ‘shonkiest’ brands, Netflix and Amazon to pay millions a year to make Australian TV shows and David Beckham’s been knighted by King Charles!Deep Dive: There’s been a concerning rise in the sale of child-like sex dolls to Australians by major retailers online. Yesterday, Shein announced it was removing all sex dolls from its site, after France threatened to ban it for selling child-like dolls to predators. Meanwhile, pressure’s mounting on the Australian Government to take a stronger stance, with other platforms still using dodgy tactics to get around our laws and past border police. In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Collective Shout’s Caitlin Roper, who is spearheading the Australian campaign. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell says The Melbourne Cup represents the worst parts of our society, from animal cruelty to gambling harm and rising family violence rates. Calling the racing industry the ‘most visible display of animal cruelty’ pointing to the deaths of 175 racehorses linked to the sport. The Victorian politician has been a vocal critic of the horse racing industry, which generates around $9.5 billion dollars a year and employs up to 80,000 people from jockeys to stable hands. In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks why Georgie wants to ban jumps racing and whip use, and what Racing Australia is doing to improve welfare standards for racehorses. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In bad news for millions of mortgage holders, the RBA has today left the official cash rate on hold at 3.6%. The RBA governor warning there are turbulent times ahead for the Australian economy, admitting the Board is keeping a very close eye on inflation and unemployment data. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by financial expert Sally Tindall, who unpacks today’s decision and her predictions on what the RBA may do next. Headlines: History has been made at the Melbourne Cup, 13 people have been arrested after police and demonstrators clashed at a Pro Palestine protest in Sydney’s CBD, and a New York mayoral candidate has taken a bizarre swing at Sydney’s Parramatta. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Convicted triple murderer Erin Patterson formally lodges appeal, charges laid after UK train mass stabbing, US judge ends Justin Baldoni lawsuit against Blake Lively, millions of Aussies set to get three hours of free power a day, and Ash Barty visits a western Sydney school. Deep Dive: It’s the race that stops the nation - but in 2025, the Melbourne Cup is also the race chasing Gen Z. As horse racing continues to face scrutiny over gambling harm and animal welfare, younger Australians are surprisingly turning up in record numbers to major racing events. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with commentator Melissa Hoyer about why and how the Melbourne Cup is finding new life with this new generation. Further listening from the headlines:Justin Baldoni v Blake Lively explained Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New CCTV has been released of an alleged daylight kidnapping in suburban Sydney. The man was returned unharmed this morning, after allegations of a million-dollar ransom and a police investigation. But the kidnappers are still on the run. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Sydney Morning Herald crime reporter Riley Walter, who unpacks why there’s been an escalation in brazen crime and what’s behind it. Headlines: Calls are growing for Optus boss Stephen Rue to stand down, Sussan Ley is reportedly set to abandon the Liberal Party’s controversial Net Zero target, and a list of Australia’s most gruelling jobs has been released. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Sussan Ley under pressure after Nationals formally scrap Net Zero, mass UK train stabbing ‘not a terror attack’ police say, former Prince, Andrew, to be stripped of final military title, Optus 000 failure senate inquiry begins today, and security to ramp up for Rugby Ashes final after serial pitch invader joins anthem. Deep Dive: Private security guards on patrols across a capital city in Australia could soon be armed with guns following a rise in crime and youth offending in some suburbs. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with security expert and former Victoria Police detective, Graeme Simpfendorfer about what’s really driving the calls to arm guards in Melbourne, how serious the threat really is, and whether adding guns to suburban streets will make people safer. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

British pop icon Lily Allen's explosive new album West End Girl set the internet alight this week.Raw and confessional, the record was written in the aftermath of her split from Stranger Things star David Harbour and seemingly offers personal insights that have resonated with people around the world. In today's bonus episode, The Hot Hits host Nic Kelly joins Natarsha Belling to unpack why this might be Lily Allen’s most powerful work yet. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Richard Harris is best known as one of the extraordinary people behind the rescue of a Thai soccer team from a cave back in 2018. It was a feat that stunned the world that also earned him the title of Australian of the Year. Now, the self-proclaimed introvert is plunging back into the depths - this time in Deeper, a breathtaking new documentary that explores one of the most remote underwater cave systems in New Zealand’s South Island. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Richard shares why he never set out to be a doctor and how he mentally prepares to face the dark, icy waters most of us would run from. Weekend list with Chris Spyrou TO WATCH: Invasion on Apple TV+ TO EAT: Frozen pretzels at ALDI TO LISTEN: Jennifer Aniston on Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard TO READ: Picture of You by Tony Birch Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the greatest crisis that has rocked the British Royal Family since King Edward was forced to abdicate in 1936. As the fallout continues over Jeffrey Epstein, King Charles has now stripped his brother of a number of Royal titles, including his birthright of Prince. Prince Andrew will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, and has also been kicked out of the Royal Cottage along with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Royal Correspondent Juliet Rieden, who warns that more damaging allegations may be on the way, involving not only Andrew but also other very powerful people. Headlines: Former NSW MP Gareth Ward has been sentenced to five years and nine months in prison, tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish men have flooded the streets of Jerusalem in a mass protest, and NASA has stepped in to correct Kim Kardashian. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Fresh search for missing four-year-old Gus Lamont, prison guards ordered to return to work after snap strike over violent assaults, ARIA-Award-winning musician Dean Lewis issues apology to fans for ‘inappropriate behaviour’, five new suspects arrested over Louvre crown jewel heist, and dictionary.com confirms “word of the year”. Deep Dive: Witches have re-entered the mainstream through the power of social media, which has also catapulted the prevalence of the Etsy and DIY witch. But with so many witches entering your TikTok feed or telling you about your future through a screen, how do we know if what they’re selling us is magic or marketing? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Dr Caroline Tully, a scholar of modern Pagan religions, who explains the rise of the modern witch and why, for many, witchcraft is more than just a trend. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oasis were the soundtrack to a generation - two brothers from Manchester who turned Britpop into a global phenomenon. But behind the swagger and sing-alongs, Liam and Noel Gallagher’s relationship was as volatile as it was iconic. From drunken brawls and backstage walkouts to public insults that played out across decades, the Oasis feud became one of rock’s most infamous sibling rivalries. Their creative genius built the band - but their egos ultimately destroyed it. In this episode of The Beefing, Alexandria Funnell unpacks how Oasis went from conquering the charts and breaking world records to imploding in spectacular fashion - and whether peace is finally on the horizon. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Infectious disease experts are raising the alarm over a concerning increase in antibiotic resistance, with rates increasing by more than 40% in just seven years. But the over-prescription of antibiotics is only a small part of the problem... In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by infectious diseases expert Sanjaya Senanayake, who explains why antibiotics are not working on so many serious diseases and the urgent action that’s needed. Headlines: President Donald Trump has ordered the US Department of War to resume testing of nuclear weapons, the family of a teenage cricketer killed in a training accident has issued a heartbreaking statement, and Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce has denied allegations that he verbally abused a female staffer. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Albo praised by Trump alongside world leaders in South Korea, thousands of child abuse allegations in Aus childcare centres, Hurricane Melissa leaves trail of destruction across Jamaica, Cuba and Haiti, safety questions sparked after woman dies being left behind by cruise, and two Louvre heist suspects admit involvement. Deep Dive: 'Awareness ads' for drugs are being called promotions in disguise by health experts, who say they may be encouraging the overdiagnosis or overuse of medication. In Australia, it’s illegal to advertise prescription medicines directly to the public, but some ‘awareness’ ads have been found to do so indirectly. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Dr Ray Moynihan, a Senior Research Manager at the University of Sydney, who explains the legalities of ‘awareness’ ads and why he believes they can turn people into patients. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The BOM is being slammed over its brand-new, taxpayer-funded multimillion-dollar website makeover. Meteorologists say the changes make it almost impossible to read the vital radar and weather information. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by 7News meteorologist, Tony Auden, who says automation is partly to blame and explains why the major changes are incredibly dangerous...and even potentially deadly. Headlines: The chance of an interest rate cut has plunged, a woman accused of sabotaging two Sydney hospitals has appeared in court, and Kai Trump is set to make her professional golf debut. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headline: Israel strikes Gaza as Hamas postpones hostage handover, new AFP taskforce cracking down on ‘crimefluencers’ targeting young girls, neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell found not guilty, Queensland’s Health Minister reintroduces puberty blocker ban, and eight Aus state high schools have taught their year 12 students the wrong stimulus. Deep Dive: The next two weeks in Australian politics are shaping up to be the biggest test of Anthony Albanese’s second term, and it’s all over the Government’s plan to revamp our country's 25-year-old environmental laws. The Coalition says it’ll strangle business; the Greens claim it doesn’t go far enough, and without one of them on board, it’s doomed. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by co-CEO of the Australia Institute, Leanne Minshull, to unpack what we know about the proposed reforms and whether they can protect the environment. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial intelligence has gone from science fiction to rapidly infiltrating our everyday lives, with experts now predicting AI could surpass human intelligence within the next three decades. From Siri to chatbots, self-driving cars and robotic surgeons, we can't live without it. But as AI starts replacing human jobs, generating art and even making 'moral decisions' - leading tech experts have started sounding the alarm, including former employees of OpenAI. In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith breaks down the growing feud between artificial intelligence and humans, from its beginnings in the 1950s to today’s chatbot revolution and whether AI is our greatest creation or the biggest threat to humanity yet. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Young Aussies are being screwed over and are facing a tougher reality than their parents and grandparents, according to new research. Education, home ownership, psychological distress, loneliness and delayed adulthood are the five key factors impacting young people the most. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Intifar Chowdhury, a youth researcher and lecturer in government at Flinders University, who explains the great generational divide and the solutions we all must face. Afternoon headlines: Woman arrested after gas supplies allegedly sabotaged at two Sydney hospitals, first member of the NZYQ cohort has been deported to Nauru, 80-year-old women dies after failing to board a cruise and top state school admits to teaching wrong topic for year 12 exam Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Trump says he ‘would love’ to run for a third term, pre-sentence hearing for Hannah McGuire’s killer resumes today, neo-Nazi leader Tom Sewell faces court in Victoria, Aussies can claim share of $50m Cambridge Analytica payout and the BOM’s new website bombs. Deep Dive: From athlete doping to criminal syndicate match fixing, for as long as there’s been professional sport, there’s been those trying to cheat and make big bucks. As the Australian 2032 Olympics edges closer, police and sporting agencies are already working to prevent such threats from hindering the integrity of the games. In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Sport Integrity Australia’s Chris Butler and James Moller about how the body catches those doing the wrong thing, and how they’re preparing to crack down on cheats and criminals for the biggest sporting spectacle in the world. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.