The Quicky

Is the Strait of Hormuz open or not? And what happens once this ceasefire deal ends later this week? We're bringing in two foreign correspondents to unpack what played out in the Middle East this weekend and what renewed peace talks could bring between Iran and the US in the coming days.

Are you feeling a bit “meh”? Like every day is on repeat and you’re craving something to shake things up? In this episode of But Are You Happy, clinical psychologist Dr. Anastasia Hronis breaks down why we get stuck in ruts—and how to tell whether it’s just a temporary slump or something deeper like anxiety or depression. You'll also learn: Practical strategies to help you break out of a rut The symptoms of depression and how to seek support Ways to rediscover what brings you real joy How to tap into the three P’s: pleasure, progress, and purpose If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Both services are available 24/7 for free, confidential mental health support. Want to get in touch with us? DM @butareyouhappypod on Instagram or send us a voice memo. Our hosts are ready to hear your dilemmas—think of it as free therapy! CREDITS: Hosts: Ashani Dante & Dr Anastasia Hronis Executive Producer: Naima Brown Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Producer: Jacob Round Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How did we bury this lead - Australia didn’t even crack the top 10 in the latest global happiness rankings for 2026, landing at 15th. No surprises, the Nordic nations dominated yet again this year with Finland securing the top spot. So what can they teach us about happiness? Well right now, a big business in Sweden is trialling a feel-good fix in the most unexpected place.

It has been seven weeks since the war involving the US, Israel, and Iran began, and while a fragile two-week ceasefire is currently in place, the world is holding its breath. Earlier this week, President Donald Trump threw a spanner in the works by announcing a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most critical energy corridor, after initial peace talks in Pakistan reached an impasse over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Today, we're unpacking what this escalation means for your bottom line. With global oil prices surging, Australian airlines have already begun hiking fares and cutting domestic flight capacity to manage soaring fuel bills. Plus, we examine a historic breakthrough as Israel and Lebanon agree to their first direct negotiations in over 30 years. Director of Research from the United States Studies Centre, Jared Mondschein, joins us to discuss whether these high-stakes diplomatic moves will lead to lasting stability or a global recession.

Eight years ago, they were the world’s most famous newlyweds visiting our shores as senior working royals. This week, Harry and Meghan have touched down in Australia for a four-day visit that looks very different. From charitable engagements to a high-priced wellness retreat; the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are walking a fine line between charity and commerce. But with reports that Aussie taxpayers are footing a hefty security bill despite the trip being 'private', is the public sentiment starting to sour? We're joined by Mamamia Out Loud host and royal expert Holly Wainwright to decode the 'quasi-royal' tour, the impending arrival of Meghan’s lifestyle brand As Ever, and whether Australians actually care about the ex-royals anymore.

If you grew up with Dolly magazine, woke up with Today, or unwound with The Project, Lisa Wilkinson has likely been the voice in the room for most of your life. After one of the most turbulent chapters of her career and a high-profile legal battle, Lisa has stepped away from the cameras to uncover a story lost to time. We’re sitting down with the media veteran to discuss her new book, The Titanic Story of Evelyn, which follows the extraordinary life of Evelyn Marsden; the only Australian-born survivor of the Titanic. Lisa reveals how she pieced together this '10,000 piece jigsaw puzzle' to tell a tale of heroism through a female lens. Plus, Lisa opens up about her 'new chapter' after television, the reality of 'rowing against the tide' in the Australian media landscape, and whether she’s got another big story under her hat. You can order your copy of The Titanic Story of Evelyn here

As Donald Trump announces a US Navy blockade on one of the world's most vital fuel routes after failed talks with Iran, we look at what this means for global stability; including the plans of Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese this week. Plus, as Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors prepare for high-stakes meetings in Washington, we're joined by Beirut-based journalist Wael Taleb to find out what life is like on the ground after a series of devastating strikes and whether a ceasefire is actually within reach.

Do you ever notice that inner voice ... the one that’s quick to judge or put you down, even though you’d never speak to a friend that way? In this episode of But Are You Happy, clinical psychologist Dr. Anastasia Hronis talks about how to deal with your inner critic, especially when it starts affecting your mental health, and how to start building a more supportive voice instead. You'll also learn: Where that critical voice comes from Whether it gets easier to manage as we get older Signs someone might be struggling with self-worth Practical ways to build self-compassion If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Both services are available 24/7 for free, confidential mental health support. Want to get in touch with us? DM @butareyouhappypod on Instagram or send us a voice memo. Our hosts are ready to hear your dilemmas—think of it as free therapy! CREDITS: Hosts: Ashani Dante & Dr Anastasia Hronis Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman Executive Producer: Naima Brown Audio Producer: Jacob Round Mamamia acknowledges the traditional owners of the land on which we have recorded this podcast.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Friday, so we’re wrapping up the week with a look at the stories making us smile. First, there’s a big win for parents as flu season approaches: a new needle-free ‘FluMist’ nasal spray is now available for kids and teens. We check in on which states are offering it for free to help keep the family healthy this winter. Then, we dive into the ‘viral’ moment that had the McDonald’s CEO’s own kids calling him out for his burger-tasting technique. Plus, we celebrate some truly legendary longevity as we clear up the headlines surrounding Jonathan, the world’s oldest tortoise.

The conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran has brought global supply chains to their knees, but a sudden 11th-hour deal has secured a two-week ceasefire. As the Strait of Hormuz conditionally reopens, we look at the flow-on effects that have hit us at the local servo and the checkout. Plus, with the US President making some of his most alarming threats to date, including the warning that an 'entire civilisation' could be at risk, we ask if this is just internet bravado or a genuine threat of war crimes. Amelia Lester joins us to unpack the ten-point peace plan, if the ceasefire will hold and why Trump is now staring down the barrel of impeachment.

As the conflict between the US, Israel and Iran intensifies and President Trump’s bombing deadline looms, we are breaking down exactly how a war on the other side of the world is hitting you right here at home. First, we sit down with international relations expert Dr Jessica Genauer to examine the 'complete demolition' threats, alleged war crimes, and whether a ceasefire is even on the table. Then, we investigate the fuel crisis. With service stations running dry and the government slashing the fuel excise, we ask the NRMA’s Peter Khoury why prices aren't dropping faster. Plus, as Aussies flock to public transport to save their hip pockets, Professor Graham Currie explains if our trains and buses can actually handle the surge in demand and whether free fares are a long-term solution or just a temporary fix.

The very last time Samantha Murphy’s family can verify she was alive was around 7am on the morning of February 4, 2024. There’s an image from a CCTV camera that police released of the 51-year-old, in the activewear she would usually put on ahead of her run. But while that image might be the last time we were able to confirm that she was okay, it’s allegedly not the last time she was seen. Tomorrow, the trial begins for the man accused of murdering Samantha Murphy. He has pleaded not guilty to the charge.

They started as a treatment for diabetes, but GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have quickly become the most talked-about drugs in modern medicine. With two-thirds of Australians now living with obesity, the shift from lifestyle-only messaging to pharmaceutical solutions is accelerating, but is it just a new form of diet culture, or a genuine medical breakthrough? Today, we get rare access to one of the original pioneers of the science. Professor Lotte Bjerre Knudsen, Chief Scientific Advisor at Novo Nordisk, joins us to answer your questions. Plus, Lotte addresses the headlines regarding side effects and why the FDA recently removed a major warning from the label.

If you could press play on Australia, what would you hear? This week, the National Film and Sound Archive has added nine more iconic sounds to its permanent collection, and they range from the deeply moving to the flat-out hilarious. We’re unpacking the 2026 inductees, including the viral 'succulent Chinese meal' arrest, Missy Higgins’ breakout hit ‘Scar’, and the pedestrian crossing 'beep' that ended up in a Billie Eilish song. Plus, we look back at the powerful 2015 Australian of the Year speech by Rosie Batty and the jingle that ensured no Aussie would ever forget the number 1300 655 506. Claire Murphy joins us to travel through the sonic history of the country and find out what really makes a sound 'quintessentially Australian'.

With the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran dragging on, the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has sent shockwaves through global supply chains and Australian petrol pumps. As the Prime Minister unveils a National Fuel Security Plan to stop the panic buying, we look at why the fuel excise has been halved and what it actually means for your hip pocket. Plus, with Victoria and Tasmania introducing free public transport while other states hold out, we’re joined by political analyst Amy Remeikis to unpack the federal government's relief strategy and why some states are refusing to come to the party.

Technological advances rarely arrive without trade-offs, and now our smartphones are back under the microscope with claims they are fundamentally changing the way we fall in love. From 'phubbing' your partner to forming attachment-style bonds with your device, we investigate how constant notifications might be interfering with our ability to form deep human connections. We speak with psychologist Carly Dober and sex-and-relationship therapist Lisa Torney to find out if your phone is acting like a 'significant other' and how we can stay intimately connected in a digital world.

From a landmark lawsuit on social media addiction to a humanoid robot making an appearance at the White House, the internet moves so fast that if you blink, you’ve missed half of it. This week, we’re unpacking the three tech stories you need to be across. We look at the Los Angeles jury that found Meta and Google liable for millions in damages, marking a massive win in the fight against app features designed to hook minors. Plus, we’re stepping inside the White House where Melania Trump has welcomed a human-shaped AI guest to pitch the future of 'robot teachers'. And, why has OpenAI suddenly pulled the plug on its viral video-generation tool, Sora? We’re joined by futurist Mark Pesce to unpack it all.

We’ve only just cooled down from the steamy fourth season of Bridgerton, but the next lead has officially been confirmed, and it’s a major departure from the original books. As speculation reaches a fever pitch, we’re indulging in everything we know about the much-anticipated fifth season. Today, we sit down with Grace Rouvray from the Watch Party podcast to unpack the reveal of Francesca Bridgerton and Michaela Stirling, exploring the internet’s reaction to the gender-swap and why the show decided to skip over Eloise for now. Plus, we investigate the future of Lady Whistledown and whether we’ll be waiting years for the next chapter of the ton to drop on Netflix Check out Watch Party here

As global tensions and conflict in the Middle East threaten the flow of oil into Australia, the warning signs are flashing. While we aren't out of fuel yet, regional towns are already seeing shortages, prices at the bowser are climbing, and supply is at risk of running low. So, how much do we really have left, and why is our 'just-in-time' delivery system so vulnerable to international shocks? Today, we're joined by the NRMA's Peter Khoury to explain where our fuel actually comes from and how many days of reserves we have left. Plus, consumer behaviour expert Dr Paul Harrison joins us to discuss the psychology of panic buying and how this shortage will eventually hit your grocery bill and your commute.

When you hear the word 'cult', you probably picture white robes and remote compounds. But in 2026, the reality is much more ordinary. From wellness communities to 'coaching' gurus and high-control religious groups, a new wave of organisations is recruiting young people who are searching for certainty in an unstable, post-pandemic world. As the Victorian Parliament conducts a landmark inquiry into the recruitment methods of these fringe groups, we investigate how the traditional cult has morphed into something far more sanitised and harder to spot.

"His future as President politically rests on what happens, really, in the next 48 hours." US President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum that could end the war with Iran, but how likely is it to actually work? Today, Senior Fellow at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney walks us through what the next few days of this conflict could look like both in the region, and further abroad.