The Briefing

Bonnie Blue has been making national headlines again over her return to schoolies. The controversial OnlyFans star's visa was cancelled last year, but she told media 'I’ve got good lawyers and I will be doing schoolies this year.' In this Bonus episode of The Briefing from 2024, Helen Smith is joined by Bonnie to discuss her schoolies plan to invite “barley legal” young men attending the event on the Gold Coast to have sex and film it for content on her wildly popular OnlyFans account. The second part of this episode is an interview with Harrison James, who was calling for Bonnie's visa to be cancelled at the time. He’s a survivor of sexual violence and now works as an activist speaking about consent, sexual violence and the safety of children and young people.Content warning: This episode mentions sexual violence. If this episode has brought up any issues for you, help is available:Lifeline 13 11 14 1800Respect Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marcia Hines is a music icon - 22 albums, more than 2.6 million sales, and a career that made her a household name as a judge on Australian Idol. She moved to Australia when she was 16 to star in Hair, the anti-Vietnam war musical, and ended up building her life here after discovering she was pregnant with her daughter, Deni. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Marica shares what stardom looks like in 2025 and how she feels being a 2026 Wall of Fame inductee at Parkes Elvis Festival. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Frankenstein on Netflix TO TRY: Vision facial serum by Lush TO LISTEN: Ausify on Insta TO WATCH: Rush Hour and old movies you love Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Half of what Australians eat is ultra processed and now a damning new international report has revealed how these everyday foods are putting us at greater risk of serious chronic disease and mental health issues. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr Priscila Machado from the Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition at Deakin University, who explains exactly what ultra processed foods are and why we need tougher regulations. Afternoon headlines: Coroner hands down findings on deadly Wieambilla attack, Kellie Sloane elected NSW Liberal leader unopposed, Virgin and Qantas ban use of portable power banks and Darwin Cyclone warning Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Third Coalition leader ousted from top job this week, neo-Nazi leader reportedly charged over alleged harassment of federal MP, coroner to hand down findings into Australia’s first Christian terror attack today, Anthony Albanese touches down in South Africa for G20 summit, and an Aussie surprise as the world’s coolest streets are named. Deep Dive: After 13 long years of schooling, thousands of kids across the country are packing their bags for destinations across Australia – and now the world – to celebrate Schoolies. While many will likely party too hard and head home with some regrets, or worse, there’s a growing trend among teenagers to swap getting wasted for wellness. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks to the founder of Red Frogs, Andy Gourley, about how kids are celebrating in 2025 and how much that’s changed since he started his work at leavers events more than 25 years ago. Further listening from headlines:The Coalition killing season has arrivedVote #1 neo-Nazis Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s one of the oldest, pettiest, and most iconic sporting feuds on earth: Australia vs England, fighting over a tiny terracotta urn. From England’s full-blown 1882 meltdown at The Oval, to the chaos of Bodyline, Bradman’s god-tier dominance, ball-tampering scandals, this rivalry isn’t just cricket - it’s the biggest beef in sporting history.In this episode of The Beefing, Alexandria Funnell breaks down the century-long beef that’s shaped cricket history: the legends, the collapses, the controversies, the sledging, and the moments that turned two nations into lifelong frenemies. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The CSIRO, Australia's peak science agency, has cut 350 researchers in their latest round of redundancies. But experts are warning this is just the tip of the iceberg, with various Federal Governments over the years not properly funding or supporting our world leading scientists and researchers. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by the CEO of Science & Technology Australia Ryan Winn to unpack why the Government isn’t choosing to invest in Australian science and the dangers of not keeping the research and development in our own backyard. Afternoon headlines: Donald signs off on releasing the remaining Epstein files, Australia hands over COP31 to Türkiye and real estate agents in Victoria required to reveal a property’s reserve price. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Australia accused of censoring US citizens, Tropical Cyclone Fina is heading toward the NT, calls for governments to step up action to fight chips and soft drinks, The Louvre announces 100 new security cameras, and Amyl and The Sniffers clean up at the ARIAs! Deep Dive: AI anxiety is fuelled by warnings that artificial intelligence could replace jobs, upend industries, and even surpass human control within decades. So how seriously should we take these risks, and which human skills will matter most in a future shaped by rapidly advancing AI? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith chats with UNSW AI Institute chief scientist Toby Walsh to break down how worried we should be and what we can do to stay future-proof in an AI-driven world. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ARIAs are on tonight... and we find out why the music industry’s night of nights is more important than ever. As local artists struggle to cut through in a content-overloaded world, we unpack why the ARIAs are a vital showcase for the superstars of the future. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by podcaster and music expert Alex Dyson. Headlines: The legislation to release the Epstein files now needs to be signed by the US President, new laws banning Nazi slogans and symbols have been introduced by the New South Wales Government, and the Cambridge Dictionary has revealed its word of the year for 2025. Matt & Alex All Day Breakfast Live. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Outage takes down popular apps and Aussie airport sites, US lawmakers to vote on Epstein files, skilled migrants and international students could be slashed under Libs, Roblox to roll out age-verification checks in Australia despite social media ban exemption, and Eminem sues Aussie swim company. Deep Dive: A new claim for native title rights has been filed with the Federal Court, which, if successful, will cover Melbourne and its surrounds. While corners of the community might react with concern and even anger at new native title claims, what exactly are they? And is the criticism justified? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Kieren Murray, a Wiradjuri man and lawyer at the First Nations Legal & Research Services to unpack it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pauline Hanson and Mehreen Faruqi’s long-running feud has turned into a legal showdown, with Hanson's tweet telling Faruqi to ‘pack your bags and piss off back to Pakistan’ at the centre of the battle. The two senators' politics sit at complete opposite ends of the spectrum, Faruqi a senator for the Greens and Hanson the leader of One Nation. In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks how these senators ended up in politics and why Hanson is refusing to accept the court’s ruling in Faruqi’s favour - launching an appeal that’s pushed the feud back into the headlines. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coalition implosion continues... while the focus has been on the Federal infighting... now the state parties in both NSW and Victoria are falling apart. Victoria has a new Opposition leader, the NSW Nationals boss has resigned, and now speculation is rife that the NSW Liberal leader will also go. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Liberal Party strategist turned pollster Tony Barry to unpack the fallout and why he is warning the party is dead unless it returns to its core values. Headlines: The family of Hannah McGuire has broken down in tears after her killer was sentenced to 28 years' jail for the young woman’s murder, the federal government has welcomed the UN Security Council passing Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza, and the finalists for the Macquarie Dictionary’s word of the year have been released. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Visa revoked for Neo-nazi who attended Sydney rally, Sussan Ley says she will lead the Coalition to the next election, jail time for Aussie man who ambushed Ariana Grande on red carpet, more schools to close over asbestos contamination and Joey takes you inside another undercover investigation in the new episode of Secrets We Keep: Uncovered. Deep Dive: The Church of Scientology has long been shrouded in controversy and secrecy, with allegations of mental, emotional, financial, sexual and physical abuse. It was even banned in Australia following an inquiry in the 1960s, before being recognised as a religion by the High Court in 1983. Now in 2025, Scientology Melbourne has started posting on TikTok in a bid to lure younger members, as an inquiry in Victoria examines the harms caused by high-control religious groups, including Scientology. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with investigative journalist Bryan Seymour about the church’s attempts to recruit on social media and why we should be worried about it. Further listening from headlines: Vote #1 neo-Nazis is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts BONUS: Inside the Wicked press tour insanity on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.