
Hack
291 episodes — Page 3 of 6

Aussie names in the Epstein files + tricks of real estate agents
The US Department of Justice has released millions of files related to the investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. So what's new? And the leaders of both the National and Liberal parties are fighting to hold their positions after the Coalition's break-up. David Littleproud held on today — can Sussan Ley do the same?Plus: one state is cracking down on underquoting to stop real estate agents tricking first home buyers into attending auctions they don't stand a chance at. Listen now:01: 18 - The latest Epstein dump07:00 - The Nationals spill that wasn't16:00 - Is this real estate trick costing first home buyers money?Guests:Evelyn Manfield, political reporter, triple j hackMatthew Bowes, housing expert, Grattan InstituteGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

DEEP DIVE: Are boomers more addicted to their phones than gen Z?
Often when you hear people talk about screen time, the focus is on young people. The Australian government has even banned kids from being on social media before they turn 16.But is Gen Z really the problem? Or are older generations spending more time staring at their phones (and tablets and TVs)?On the deep dive today, we ask young Aussies about screen time, disconnecting and talking to their parents about tech.Also, you'll hear from an expert who outlines which generation spends the most time on their phones, and what it's doing to their brains.Guest:Dr Michoel Moshel, clinical neuropsychologistGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

THE SHAKEUP: Pauline Hanson's song, smashing tennis racquets + are we sick of the Beckhams?
Pauline Hanson is launching a music and film career, all while her One Nation party keeps surging in opinion polls. What's going on?And a private moment, or fair game for the cameras? Coco Gauff wasn't happy when her racquet smash backstage at the Australian Open this week went viral. Plus, a new twist in the Beckham family drama. Now brothers Cruz and Romeo have entered the feud. How long can it go on? Host Dave Marchese is joined by The Daily Aus's Em Gillespie and creator Lachy McIntyre for the first Shakeup of 2026.Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Invasion Day terrorism investigation + ruling a country at 21
Police in Perth say they're investigating a "potential terrorist act" at an Invasion Day rally on Monday, as Indigenous communities say they've felt ignored and scared all week.So could the media, politicians and police have done better?And ever dreamed of being the ruler of your own domain?We speak to the young Aussie who has claimed a piece of land in eastern Europe and declared it his own country. Listen now: 01:17 - First Nations leaders welcome terrorism investigation11:05 - Running the Free Republic of VerdisGuests: Professor Braden Hill, Edith Cowan UniversityDaniel Jackson, President of VerdisDr Harry Hobbs, Associate Professor in Law, University of New South WalesGet the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: The Australian 21-year-old who started a country
Daniel Jackson says he's the youngest head of state in the world.There's just one problem: no other nation recognises his country.What started out as joke when he was 14 has developed into the Free Republic of Verdis.The micronation which Daniel is working to set up is between Croatia and Serbia, on a marshy piece of land in the Danube river.It has a flag, a government, and hundreds of "citizens" with IDs that some are even using to get into bars.But does it have a legal right to exist?In this chat, Daniel puts forward his case for Verdis, why he believes so many gen z are getting behind his idea, and talks through life as a world leader.Plus, you'll hear from an expert who breaks down whether or not you can actually just start your own country.Guests: Daniel Jackson, President of VerdisDr Harry Hobbs, Associate Professor in Law, University of New South WalesGet the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Gun laws, hate speech + do boomers have a screen time problem?
From recreational shooters to contract hunters, gun-owners are still working out how Australia's new firearms laws will impact them. So what's changing?And does Australia need to do more to monitor radical preachers? Former prime minister Scott Morrison thinks so. Plus boomers love to slam young people for the amount of time they spend on their phones. But is it boomers that actually have the bigger screen time problem? Listen now: 01:08 - What's in the new gun laws13:36 - Tracking radical preachers18:01 - Boomers and screensGuests:Stephen Bendle, senior advocacy advisor, Alannah & Madeline FoundationDr Michoel Moshel, clinical neuropsychologistGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Minnesota v ICE + do we need to cull sharks?
ICE officers in the US city of Minneapolis have killed a second protester, as locals fight against the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration. We get the latest from the ground with journalist Laura Jedeed. Plus as part of her reporting, Laura was researching what it takes to sign up for ICE. So why did the agency end up hiring her?And back home: there were 4 shark attacks in 48 hours last week, including one which claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy in NSW. Is it time for a cull? Guests: Laura Jedeed, freelance journalistDr Vanessa Pirotta, wildlife scientistGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

DEEP DIVE: The people breaking up with Spotify
It's Hottest 100 day today, and all over Australia, people are getting around their favourite music discoveries.But one of the main platforms that helps people find new tracks is having a bumpy ride, with users boycotting Spotify because of AI, algorithms and the investments of the company's CEO.So what is the boycott Spotify movement about?And what does it tell us about the state of music in general?In the deep dive today, we look at the global music streaming sector's big whale, and ask why some artists and fans are seeking out alternatives.Guests: Dr Sophie Freeman, researcher of music streaming and algorithmic recommendation, the University of MelbourneGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

(Another) coalition bust-up, new gun laws and banning hate groups
Is parliament's response to the Bondi terrorist attack about to destroy the coalition?It's the question everyone in Canberra is asking, after politicians returned for the year for an emergency sitting.The to-do list this week was short: tougher gun restrictions and new laws governing hate speech.So what did the parliament achieve, and how are laws about to change?In this ep of the hack summer podcast, hack political reporter Shalailah Medhora gets you up to speed.Guest: Shalailah Medhora, hack political reporterGet the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: Former NRL player on overcoming a gambling addiction and #BookTok backlash
When Luke Bateman was at the peak of his NRL career, his seemed to be living the dream of many young Aussie men. At 24, he was earning hundreds of thousands of dollars to play the sport he loved. But the reality of what was happening in Luke's life was much darker. He was struggling with a gambling addiction and depression. In this extended interview Luke opens up, revealing details of how he rebuilt his life and overcame addiction. We also get into the backlash he faced after announcing a book deal, and why he wants more guys to read. Remember, the National Gambling Helpline is available on 1800 858 858.Guest: Luke Bateman, former NRL player and #BookTok creatorGet the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

DEEP DIVE: The women being 'undressed' by Elon Musk's Grok bot
Have you heard of Grok? It’s an AI bot that lives inside X, which you might still know as Twitter.Grok has come under fire in the last few days for 'undressing' women against their consent in response to prompts from X users. On Friday Grok started to limit the ability of users to generate AI images, due to concerns about non consensual sexual imagery.So, why was the bot able to make those images to begin with?And what's being done to prevent future harm? On the deep dive today, we speak to one of the young Aussies caught up in the Grok 'nudify' controversy, and we hear from an expert about the lack of safeguards in Grok allowing this to happen. Get the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: Why these Venezuelans say Maduro had to go
It's been a crazy few days in Venezuela.On Saturday, the US dropped bombs on the country's capital Caracas while US special forces descended on a compound where the president Nicolás Maduro was staying, capturing him and his wife and flying them both to the US.Then a few days later, Maduro appeared in court in New York, charged with drug trafficking and terrorism crimes.The reaction has been a mixed bag: from widespread concern the US is breaking international law, to many labelling president Donald Trump a hero.But many Venezuelans feel their voices have not been getting enough attention.In this ep, Dave catches up with two Venezuelans living in Australia.They talk about why they left Venezuela, what it feels like to see Maduro stand trial, and what they hope happens next.Guests: Lamira, Venezuelan musician living in AustraliaSamantha Oviedo, Venezuelan living in AustraliaGet the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

DEEP DIVE: How Uber drivers game surge pricing
According to Uber drivers, it's the "oldest trick in the book": gaming the system to charge you more.In some cases, it could mean you end up paying 2 or 3 times the normal cost of a trip.So how does the trick work?Well, triple j hack has been speaking to drivers about how they create artificial surge prices, leaving passengers out of pocket.And even more remarkably, the union representing them reckons the consequences for passengers are entirely on Uber itself, because drivers aren't being paid enough for their work.So is any of this fair?We chatted to a few drivers to get an inside look at the industry, as well as a CHOICE spokesperson to find out what this could mean for your next Uber ride.A version of this episode was first published in August 2025.Guest: Jarni Blakkarly, investigative journalist, CHOICEGet the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: What it's like to give up booze and bags for good
It's the social season in Australia — barbecues, festivals, long nights out.And with it often comes alcohol and drugs, which are woven into how we celebrate and connect.But what about the costs to your health, your bank account, and your headspace?And while more people are cutting back, others are realising they can't have a healthy relationship with booze, opting for sobriety instead.So how do you stop?Dave Marchese sits down with Julia Rangiheuea from the Soberly Speaking podcast to unpack Australia's drinking culture, the real costs of partying, and her journey from self-described "party girl" to being 3 years sober this month.And if this chat brought up anything for you, there is help available: the National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is on 1800 250 015A version of this episode was first published in October 2025.Guest: Julia Rangiheuea, host of Soberly SpeakingGet the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

DEEP DIVE: Can you trust your sunscreen?
It's something drummed into Australians before they can even walk or talk. To beat our strong Aussie sun, you've gotta put on sunscreen. We all know the jingles and slogans: Slip Slop Slap, There's Nothing Healthy About A Tan. But is the sunscreen we've been told is so vital... actually working? Consumer group CHOICE tested 20 popular sunscreens this year, and found most of them weren't providing the protection they claimed. So is your favourite sunscreen brand among them?And what should you actually be looking for in SPF protection? We chatted to a bunch of you about your sunscreen habits for this summer pod episode, as well as an assistant professor of medicine to get the lowdown on the study and how to protect yourself from UV. A version of this episode was first published in June 2025. Guests: Dr Jessica Stokes-Parish, educator, registered nurse, assistant professor in medicine at Bond University. Get the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: Going blind as a teenager
When she was just 14 years old, Molly Burke lost her vision, and with it the way she understood the world. But Molly refused to let losing her sight mean giving up what she loved: beauty. For Molly, makeup isn't just an interest, it's a passion, and today she's a hugely influential beauty creator with millions of followers. So how does someone who can't see choose an outfit, apply makeup, and build a huge following online? In this extended interview, Molly joins host Dave Marchese to talk about why the blind community "deserves to be seen" just as much as anyone else. Also if you want to learn more about Molly's journey, her memoir 'Unseen: How I Lost My Vision But Found My Voice' is out now. A version of this episode was first published in May 2025.Guest: Molly Burke, content creatorGet the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: What science says about why humans kiss
There are certain things in life that we don't question too much.Like kissing, for example. Snogging, making out, even just a peck... but why? Why is swapping saliva something all human societies have normalised?So where did it originate? Well, it turns out kissing isn't just a human thing: all sorts of species appear to kiss, and new research now suggests Neanderthals did it too, possibly even with modern humans.In this special episode of the hack summer podcast, Dave Marchese unpacks the potential origins and purpose of kissing with University of Oxford evolutionary biologist Dr Matilda Brindle, as well as why we masturbate.Guest: Dr Matilda Brindle, University of Oxford, evolutionary biologistGet the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: The weight of being a Jewish Australian right now
Horror, anger and intense grief have gripped Australia in the days since two gunmen opened fire on Bondi Beach targeting those gathered to mark the start of Hanukkah.But many young Jewish Australians are telling us while they were shocked, they weren't surprised.In this chat, Sam and Jas sit down with hack to explain why they've felt like a target for a long time.We hear what it's like experiencing a rise in antisemitism first-hand and what Jewish Australians hope to see from the wider community at this time.Guests:Jas and Sam, members of Sydney's Jewish communityGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcast

How the Bondi terrorist attack has changed Australia
Australia has changed in the past 24 hours, after a shocking act of terrorism targeted at the Jewish community left 15 people dead on Sydney's Bondi Beach.The attack happened during a community event to mark the first day of Hanukkah on Sunday, with a 10-year-old girl, two rabbis and a holocaust survivor among those who were killed.Amid the devastating pain there have also been stories of heroism, with blood banks inundated with volunteers and that incredible video of Ahmed al Ahmed wrestling the gun from one of the shooters.In this special episode of hack, we head to Bondi Beach.We speak with witnesses, members of Sydney's Jewish community and politicians, and ask how this unspeakable crime happened and how the nation can come to terms with its pain.Listen now: 02:42 - What we know so far08:18 - How Jewish Australians are processing yesterday17:48 - Allegra Spender and Sussan Ley on Australia's antisemitism problem24:21 - Australia's terror threat levelGuests: Sussan Ley, Opposition LeaderAllegra Spender, Independent Member for WentworthAssociate Professor Josh Roose, religious violence expert, Deakin UniversityGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcast

DEEP DIVE: How ket sticks became the new festival accessory
Been at a festival lately? You might have spotted more people using walking sticks. But it's not a traditional accessibility aid.So is it Australia's growing ketamine obsession that's fuelling the trend?In the hack deep dive this week, we're unpacking the "ket stick" thing.We speak with young Aussies who are on the walking stick bandwagon, and chat with a disability advocate who's worried the prop could de-legitimise the needs of the community. Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

THE SHAKEUP: 2025, hooroo!!!!
It's our last show on the radio for the year.So from Labubus and a heist at the Louvre to a court trial in a small Victorian town that captivated the world, we're unpacking the biggest moments of 2025. From the fun moments to the intense, we hear your Ins and Outs from this year, and what you're looking forward to next year.Host Dave Marchese is joined by comedian Anthony Locascio and Gemma Donahoe from Mamamia. Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

THE SHAKEUP: how the political game shifted in 2025
Albo stayed but Dutton and Bandt were booted, as Aussie voters handed Labor more control than ever: 2025 was a big year in politics. And it's been fiery: from cost-of-living rage to heated fights over immigration, government spending and political stunts, punters have been questioning whether politicians are actually acting in their best interest. And in the US, the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the election of Zohran Mamdani added fuel to the political divides that are reshaping the world. So which of the big changes in politics in 2025 will stick?Host Dave Marchese is joined by former Labor staffer Alisha Aitken-Radburn and former WA Liberal leader Zak Kirkup. Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: Using Big Brother to fix your teeth and your car
When Big Brother contestant Abiola introduced herself on the show as a "fat black lesbian", she instantly gained fans around Australia for her disarming honesty. And with cameras, microphones and even a 24/7 TikTok live stream capturing the contestants' every move, Abiola found herself at the centre of some big conversations inside the house. From discussing the meaning of "pretty privilege" to the loss of her mum and the real impacts of the cost of living crisis, Abiola wasn't afraid to be vulnerable.And then, there's how she wrapped up on the show, deciding to take $15,000 from the prize pool with her. So how's she feeling now?In this week's extended interview, Abiola opens up to Dave about what she's doing with the money, what she really thinks of the housemates, and what it means to be a "fat black lesbian" who blew up online.Guest:Abiola, Big Brother contestantGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

THE SHAKEUP: Sport's biggest moments of 2025
From Gout Gout's meteoric rise to Sam Kerr's big return to the Matildas and Oscar Piastri's F1 saga, it's been a massive year in sport.But it wasn't just huge achievements: 2025 was also the year a lot of sporting codes were forced to grapple with tough questions on everything from gambling and misogyny, to homophobia and racism.For this special episode of The Shakeup, we upack the highlights and controversies that dominated the sporting world this year. Host Dave Marchese is joined by sports podcasters Elle Baillieu and Josh Garlepp. Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Teens off socials, walking sticks at festivals + going on Big Brother
Australia's world first social media ban for teens under 16 is kicking in tomorrow. So how are teenagers prepping, and what will they turn to instead? Plus, do Anika Wells' travel expenses pass the pub test? And spotted a walking stick prop at a festival this summer? We get into why disability advocates are concerned about risks to accessibility. Also, with revamped Big Brother wrapping up, we speak to one contestant about why they signed up and what the experience was like.Listen now: 00:59 - Social media ban comes in05:58 - David Pocock on how much politicians should spend14:45 - Walking sticks at doofs19:28 - Abiola from Big Brother opens upGuests:David Pocock, independent senatorAbiola, Big Brother contestant Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Vape heart attacks, Barnaby joins One Nation + fighting bushfires
The first week of summer has already seen deadly bushfires raging from WA to Tassie and NSW. So what's it going to take to get more young volunteers to sign up to spending their summer fighting fires?And a WA coroner examining the death of Cleveland Dodd in a notorious youth detention facility has handed down his findings, recommending Perth's Unit 18 be closed 'as a matter of urgency'.Plus, it happened: former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce has officially joined One Nation. How will he get on with Pauline Hanson? We're also talking about the health risks of vaping after Fraser Olender says it brought on a heart attack. Listen now: 01:20 - Cleveland Dodd inquest findings08:18 - Would you fight fires for free?18:34 - Barnaby Joyce and Pauline Hanson team up22:49 - What we know about vaping and heart attacksGuests: Cason Ho, reporter, ABC PerthHamish Clark, Senior Research Fellow, University of MelbourneAlexander Larcombe, Associate Professor, Curtin School of Population HealthGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

DEEP DIVE: Should you be allowed to drive on medicinal cannabis?
In most of Australia, people using medicinal cannabis can't legally drive - even if they're unimpaired. But now the NSW government is thinking about bringing in a medical exemption to change that.So, how does cannabis affect your ability to drive? And do you think the laws need an update? On this week's hack deep dive, we hear from young people trying to navigate medicinal cannabis use and driving. They're worried about what could happen if they get pulled over.Also, you'll hear from an expert who breaks down exactly how THC impacts your ability to drive and whether or not a medical exemption is safe.Guests: Dr Danielle McCartney, Associate Lecturer in Pharmacology, University of SydneyGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

THE SHAKEUP: Boycotting Spotify Wrapped, TikTok awards + couples who don't argue
It's Spotify Wrapped time. But with all the controversy surrounding the music streaming giant this year, are attitudes towards this cultural tradition changing? And TikTok has apologised after several Black creators reported racism at its awards event. What does this all say about how the media treat people of colour? Also, we're asking if arguing is a healthy part of a relationship after Travis Kelce revealed he and Taylor Swift never do it. Plus, is it easier to make friends in the city or the country? Host Dave Marchese is joined by 7NEWS Sydney's Daniel Healion and culture writer Maggie Zhou. Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Fixing your social feeds + can we save live music?
The live music scene is in trouble, with Park Waves this week becoming the latest festival to announce its Australian cancellation. So why does this keep happening? And is the federal government's main plan to fix it working?And if you're getting served up stuff in your social feeds that you never asked for, this one's for you: Chanel Contos from Teach Us Consent has a plan, and she wants Australia to get onboard.Listen now: 01:17 - The gigs Revive Live is helping make happen07:37 - Can Australia save its live music scene?16:04 - How to opt out of your algorithmGuests: Dr Sam Whiting, senior research fellow, RMIT UniversityChanel Contos, founder and CEO, Teach Us Consent Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: Chanel Contos has a plan to fix your feed
If you could quit your own algorithm and start again, would you be happier?And if everyone could do it: would it make the world a better place?Chanel Contos thinks so, and she wants Australia to do something nobody else has tried yet: make algorithms opt-in.A petition she's set up already has the names of some of Australia's most powerful people on it.So can we fix our feeds? And what would an internet that's no longer governed by algorithms even look like?In this week's interview pod, Chanel chats to Dave about the fight for our feeds.She gets into how algorithms fuel sexual violence, why we've all become so addicted to them, and what freedom from their content could mean.Guests:Chanel Contos, founder and CEO, Teach Us Consent Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Hobart stadium a goer, Lehrmann loses again + Jorja Smith's AI lawsuit
It's the biggest fight in the smallest state. So how do people in Tassie feel about the new AFL stadium, now it has the votes in the Parliament to happen?And Bruce Lehrmann's had another loss, this time in trying to challenge his failed defamation suit. So with the full federal court now backing the original ruling that on the balance of probabilities he raped his then colleague Brittany Higgins, is the case officially over?Plus, we unpack the scandal around a viral song sung by what a lot of people reckon sounds like an "AI clone" of Jorja Smith. And could improving accessibility in netball also help with the umpire shortage? Listen now: 01:20 - What happened with Bruce Lehrmann's appeal?07:31 - The future of the Hobart stadium14:06 - Does 'I Run' infringe copyright?25:01 - Umpiring in a wheelchairGuests: Jade Toomey, reporter, ABC CanberraRichard Savery, Senior research fellow, University of CanberraGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Jobs for mates, abuse in the ADF, green vinyl + can Oscar Piastri still win?
Getting a mate a job is great for the mate, obviously. But what if the mate isn't the best candidate, and the job is on a government board that pays $300k? A report into nepotism in Australia was finally released today, and its findings are scathing.Plus, Australia is getting an inquiry into sexual assaults in the defence force. We speak with victim-survivors.Also, what can artists do to make music greener? We head to a vinyl factory in Melbourne that's going green. And could Aussie F1 driver Oscar Piastri still win the world title in Abu Dhabi? There's still a pathway.Listen now: 01:09 - Sexual violence in the ADF06:00 - Governments giving jobs to their mates17:30 - Green vinyl 22:35 - Could Oscar Piastri win the F1? Guests: Clancy Moore, Chief Executive Officer, Transparency International AustraliaElle Baillieu, co-host Paddock 43Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Driving on cannabis, Ozempic economics + Ningaloo's coral deaths
Almost 10 years after medicinal cannabis was legalised in Australia, driving laws in many parts of Australia haven't changed. So how does cannabis affect your ability to drive, and do laws need an update? And we hear from tourism operators on WA's Ningaloo Reef who feel forgotten and "out of sight" after mass coral death from this year's marine heatwave. Plus, we unpack how weight loss drugs are changing the global business of how we eat, after a pharmaceutical company reached a $1.5 trillion valuation.Listen now: 01:07 - Should you be able to drive on medicinal cannabis? 12:59 - The Ningaloo's "underwater bushfire"24:23 - The big business of weight loss drugsGuests: Dr Danielle McCartney, Associate Lecturer in Pharmacology, University of SydneyDr James Gilmour, Experimental Scientist, AIMSAlan Kohler, finance journalist, ABCGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

DEEP DIVE: What will minimum pay mean for food delivery?
In the big cities, they deliver everything from pizza and pad thai to booze and groceries, but are delivery riders and drivers earning enough to make it worth their while?A lot reckon no — but could that be about to change?This week, two of Australia's biggest apps, Uber Eats and DoorDash, announced they'd agreed on a minimum level of pay.So what could this mean for drivers?On this week's hack deep dive, we head out with the riders and drivers delivering Australia convenience.We hear how the apps work on the rider's side, how they've learned to game the bonuses, and chat with an expert about how sustainable this kind of work really is.Guests:Alex Veen, employment relations researcher, University of SydneyGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

THE SHAKEUP: Sandwich press steaks, PJs on planes + xmas party hangxiety
From sandwich press steaks and the burka stunt to last-minute laws, we unpack the serious and silly moments of the last week of Parliament for 2025. And has flight etiquette gone out the window? A US transport official who is asking flyers to "dress with respect" seems to think so. Also, 'tis the season... for taking things too far — we hear your Christmas party horror stories. Host Dave Marchese is joined by editor-in-chief of The Daily Aus, Billi FitzSimons and actor Remy Hii. Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Environment deal, Lilie James findings + being a billionaire 'douchebag'
Labor has done a last-minute deal with the Greens to overhaul the nation's "broken" environmental laws, on the last sitting day of Parliament for 2025. So what changes?And the findings of an inquest into the murder of 21-year-old Sydney woman Lilie James were handed down today. We get into what the coroner's recommending.Plus, what would you do if you inherited $50 million? Hear why one woman's choice is to give it all away. Listen now: The findings of an inquest into the murder of 21-year-old Sydney woman Lilie James were handed down today. We get into what the coroner's recommending.And Labor has done a last-minute deal with the Greens to overhaul the nation's "broken" environmental laws, on the last sitting day of Parliament for 2025. So what changes?Plus, what would you do if you inherited $50 million? Hear why one woman's choice is to give it all away. Listen now: 01:14 - What needs to change after Lilie James' murder06:05 - Explaining the new environmental laws10:54 - Giving away your fortuneGuests: Isobel Roe, journalist, ABC NewsMarlene Engelhorn, Austrian heiress and wealth equality advocateGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: The rich heiress giving away all her money
When Marlene Engelhorn inherited tens of millions of dollars from her grandma, she felt she had two choices: do something about it, or confirm she was "full of shit". Marlene lives in Austria and inherited some of the Boehringer Mannheim fortune, but she's also a campaigner against wealth inequality, calling for higher taxes on wealthy people like herself. Now, she's giving it away, redistributing her $50M inheritance in a bid to take herself "out of the 1%" she was born into. But can you actually leave the 1%, or is Marlene just cos-playing as a poor person?Does having so much money inevitably make you a bad person? And what can the rest of us learn from one woman's decision to stand against the power of her own wealth?Marlene Engelhorn answers all these questions and more in this extended interview with Dave. Guest:Marlene Engelhorn, Austrian heiress and wealth equality advocateGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Delivery driver pay deal, limb lengthening + can oysters save the sea?
A historic deal could transform Australia's gig economy, with UberEats and DoorDash agreeing to minimum pay rates. So what's a day in the life like doing deliveries? And oysters are known as the kidneys of the ocean. Could they help address the major ecological disaster off South Australia?Plus, young men struggling with body image are increasingly turning to a radical option: limb-lengthening surgery. Listen now: 01:11 - The big breakthrough for delivery riders13:46 - Visiting oyster reefs 18:24 - Getting taller by breaking legsGuests: Alex Veen, employment relations researcher, University of SydneyDr Ben Buchanan, clinical psychologist Get the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Pauline Hanson's burka stunt, taking on gambling ads + are cinemas back?
Pauline Hanson got suspended from the Senate today, and she's being condemned by all sides. But Muslim Australians say the damage from yesterday's burka stunt has already been done.And anti-gambling advocates want the government to completely ban betting ads. Now, one Labor MP says there's a way to do it: give MPs a conscience vote. Plus, calls for help to 1800RESPECT have risen by 3,000%. Why?Also cinemas used to be the community hub in a lot of small towns. Are they still relevant?Listen now: 01:09 - Muslim Australians react to the burka stunt07:28 - How a gambling ad ban could pass parliament13:58 - Demand for 1800RESPECT soars18:03 - The future of regional cinemasGuests: Yasmeen Shadid, member of the Islamophobia Register's Youth CommitteeMike Freelander, Labor MP for MacarthurDr Ruari Elkington, Chief Investigator, QUT Digital Media Research CentreGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Australia's 'blood oil' problem, Cyclone Fina + how to fix women's football
Ukraine might have to reduce its armed forces and hand over territory under a US plan. Is Russia about to get what it wanted? Also, are you driving around with Russian oil in your tank? There are reports that Australia may be indirectly supporting the war by importing 'blood oil' through third countries. And Darwin is cleaning up after Cyclone Fina hit on the weekend — and it's heading towards WA's Kimberley coast next. Plus: why hasn't Matildas fever translated into support for women's professional football? Listen now:01:03 - Trump's peace plan for Ukraine 05:41 - 'Blood oil' in Aussie petrol tanks 16:35 - The clean-up in Darwin after Cyclone Fina 21:40 - Why is women's soccer struggling? Guests:Kateryna Argyrou, chair, Australian Federation of Ukrainian OrganisationsConor Cartwright, producer, ABC Radio Darwin BreakfastTracey Holmes, host, The Sports Ambassador podcastGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

DEEP DIVE: Why do so many Kiwis come to Australia?
Do you know a Kiwi in Australia? Chances are good that you do, because young Kiwis are coming here in record numbers.It's being called a "brain drain", and with the median age of people leaving 29 experts are worried about what it means for New Zealand's future.So why do so many young Kiwis leave?And are they planning on staying away for good?In the hack deep dive this week, we speak to young Kiwis who've made the jump across the ditch and ask an expert whether New Zealand needs to worry about so many people jumping on one-way flights.Guests:Asha Sundaram, Associate Professor, University of AucklandGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

THE SHAKEUP: Quiet piggy, being the lil sis of Sky Sports + drinking alone
From changing his mind on the release of the Epstein files, to lashing out at reporters, there's been a bit on for Donald Trump. And the Sky Sports TikTok channel for female sports fans has collapsed after massive backlash for being patronising and misogynistic. Plus, we hear your solo adventure stories after a UK bar banned drinkers drinking alone.Host Dave Marchese is joined by political reporters Jessica Wang from The Daily Telegraph and Dominic Giannini from AAP.04:00 - Quiet, piggy14:35 - The Sky Sports TikTok fail21:50 - Going out with... yourselfGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Why IUD rates are so low + how betting companies kept Dylan addicted
When it comes to contraceptives, we aren't opting for methods like the IUD or implant in Australia anywhere near as much as people in other countries are. The federal government's made IUD insertion cheaper and added the NuvaRing to the PBS — but what stops people from using alternatives to the pill? Plus: after 12 years of addiction, Dylan is exposing the strategies betting companies used to keep him addicted to gambling.He chats to Dave about how much he lost, and what is helping him to go more than 150 days without a bet. Listen now: 01:10 - Australia's low rate of long-acting reversible contraceptives14:40 - Overcoming a gambling addictionGuests:Dr Jacqueline Coombe, Sexual Health Unit, University of MelbourneDylan, anti-gambling advocateGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

INTERVIEW: Losing $300k before you're 30
Dylan's gambling started at school, and it just got worse from there.To fuel his bets, he reckons he started borrowing money from friends, but as the addiction spiralled out of control he resorted to stealing.Gambling cost Dylan a lot, in terms of both money and opportunities.Now, he's trying to quit, and he's documenting the journey on TikTok and Instagram.In this longer interview cut for the hack podcast, Dylan talks with Dave about the road that got him here.He describes the clarifying moment when he placed his last bet, the daily battle to keep going in a world where gambling ads are everywhere, and what it's like to do it all so publicly.Guests:Dylan, anti-gambling advocateGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

AI (over)hype, CSIRO job cuts + is hip hop in trouble?
Has an AI investment frenzy created a "bubble"? And if so, is it going to burst? Google's boss has weighed in with a warning: if AI stocks go bust, no company will be safe. Also: scientists are asking questions about the future of research and innovation in Australia, after CSIRO announced hundreds of job cuts. And for the first time in decades, there's no hip hop in the Billboard Top 40. Is the genre dying?Plus hundreds of thousands of fans are getting ready to pack stadiums right around Australia, with the Ashes series starting in Perth this week. Listen now: 01.01 - Is AI over-hyped? 08.52 - CSIRO job cuts13.27- Is hip hop dead? 24.22- Ashes previewGuests:Jason Murphy, economist and journalistChris Lambert, musician and lecturer, SAE University CollegeGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Hair loss drug 'crash', Kiwis leaving NZ + the Gaza plan
Do you use a hair loss drug? A vocal minority of younger users of finasteride are speaking out about the rare but potentially long-lasting mental health side effects.Plus: the UN Security Council has approved Donald Trump's plan for an international stabilisation force to provide security in Gaza. So what happens now?And young Kiwis are streaming out of New Zealand in record numbers, with a lot ending up here. What's the appeal, and are they planning to stay?Listen now: 01.13- What it's like on hair loss drugs14.08 - What's next in Gaza? 18.22- Choosing Australia over New ZealandGuests:Tynan King, reporter, Background BriefingAsha Sundaram, Associate Professor, University of AucklandGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Is Sussan Ley giving up on the climate + Trump's Epstein backflip
After months of unanswered questions and speculation, the Coalition has finally unveiled an energy policy, ditching emissions targets and focusing on lower power prices.So what about doing something about climate change? And what about younger voters? We sit down with the Opposition Leader Sussan Ley to ask these and more questions, including whether her leadership is now officially on life support.Plus, Donald Trump has urged Republicans to vote for the release of the Epstein files — a proposal he's been fighting, until now.Listen now: 01.01 - Dave's interview with the Opposition Leader Sussan Ley18.39 - Why did Trump backflip on the Epstein files?Guests:Sussan Ley, opposition leaderEmma Shortis, US politics expert, The Australia InstituteGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

DEEP DIVE: What does the science say about trans athletes?
Could trans athletes be banned from women's sport at the 2028 Olympic Games?We don't know for sure, but the International Olympic Committee is considering a ban and the US government has already banned trans athletes at college level.So what would a total ban on trans athletes look like for women's sport? And what does the science say?In the deep dive this week, we're taking a look at what's driving this debate.We set out why it's been in the news this week, which sporting codes have changed their policies already, and how all of this might play out at the next Olympics.And we speak to an expert about the science at the heart of this issue.Guests:Ada Cheung, Professorial Fellow in Endocrinology, The University of MelbourneGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

THE SHAKEUP: Dodgy psychics, Big Brother + are the Liberals okay?
Is pretty privilege a double-edged sword? Is it okay to rank people by intelligence? It's been a big week for Big Brother, with the live stream reality show returning from hiatus to kick off multiple controversies. And the Liberal Party has ripped off the bandaid and formally ditched net zero. Is it changing anyone's mind?Plus, a bad run for psychics. Who saw it coming? Host Dave Marchese is joined by influencer Alisha Aitken-Radburn and journalist Charlotte Mortlock.Get the whole story from Hack:Follow us on InstagramSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm

Australia's first treaty, dumping net zero + nuclear Armageddon
History was made in Australia today, with the first treaty with Aboriginal people signed into law in Victoria. So what will change?Also, the Liberal party has officially dropped net zero as its climate policy, but still says it wants to bring down emissions. And could humanity be destroyed in an afternoon? Nobel Peace Prize laureate Professor Tilman Ruff has spent decades campaigning for nuclear disarmament, and right now he's worried.Listen now:01:16 - Australia's first, first nations treaty 06:55 - The Liberal Party is officially dumping net zero12:00 - What would a nuclear war look like?Guests:Dr Tilman Ruff, Nobel laureate and Co-President, International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear WarGet the whole story from hack:Follow us on Instagram and TikTokSubscribe to the hack podcastListen on the triple j app or on your radio live every weeknight at 5:30pm