The Briefing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shock allegations of sexual abuse within Australia’s childcare system have been uncovered by a new ABC Four Corners investigation. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by investigative journalist Adele Ferguson, who admits she was shocked by the level of abuse and the dangerous loopholes that allow childcare centres to be a hunting ground for alleged pedophiles. This episode contains descriptions of child sex abuse. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.  Headlines: The ACCC has launched legal action against Microsoft, Kamala Harris has hinted she might make another run for the White House, and a Collie from Central Queensland has taken out a prestigious prize.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Two Louvre heist suspects arrested, Albanese and Trump in Malaysia for ASEAN Summit, wild weather lashes east coast, no big tech exemptions to train AI, and Microsoft Teams set to dob on Aussies that WFH.  Deep Dive: Alligator Alcatraz has existed for less than four months and has already become one of America's most notorious immigration detention centres.  With detainees reportedly permitted to shower only once every three days and forced to share clothes amid overflowing toilets and limited access to legal support, welfare organisations describe the $450 million facility as a “black hole”. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Associate Professor David Smith from the University of Sydney who explains life inside Alligator Alcatraz and what it signals about the US Government's immigration policies. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the mid-1980s, Australia was forced to confront an uncomfortable truth - hundreds of suspected Nazi war criminals had quietly made this country their home. They’d slipped in after World War II, living unremarkable lives in the suburbs, hiding in plain sight. Leading the effort to uncover them was the Special Investigations Unit, a team tasked with tracking down those who thought they’d escaped justice. Prosecutor Graham Blewitt was at the heart of that search.  In this special bonus, we’re sharing the first episode of Secrets We Keep: Uncovered with you.  You’ll hear investigative journalist Joey Watson sit down with Graham Blewitt to revisit that extraordinary investigation, and what it reveals about Australia’s long, complex history with the far right.  Tap here to go straight to Secrets We Keep: Uncovered episode 2.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matthew Reilly is one of Australia’s most prolific authors, selling more than 8 million books worldwide and even directing a Netflix film starring Elsa Pataky and Chris Hemsworth. The Sydney-born author’s has written over 30 action thriller books that dominate airport bookshelves, with his latest novel, The Detective, continuing the streak. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Matthew opens up about being rejected by every major publisher before becoming an international best seller. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Twinless the movie in cinemas  TO EAT: Lettuce cup burgers with the lot! TO TRY: Beli restaurant rating app Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dating in your 40s isn’t anything like dating in your 20s, the baggage is heavier, the stakes are higher, and the apps are brutal. In this episode, writer Kerri Sackville joins Natarsha Belling to share the realities of finding love later in life, from red flags and emotional readiness to why some men just aren’t doing the work. Headlines: Thousands of female ADF members are set to join a landmark class action against the Australian Defence Force, Three men have been arrested over the alleged kidnapping and murder of a Sydney woman, and a major betting scandal has rocked the NBA in the US. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Around 44,000 Aussies overpaid their Centrelink debt, Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomes US sanctions on Russian oil, King Charles and Pope Leo XIV become first British monarch and pontiff to pray together in 500 years, eSafety Commission issues legal notices to four chatbot creators over sexual and suicidal content, and the annual migration of crabs has begun on Christmas Island! Deep Dive: Kim Kardashian is bringing the merkin back into mainstream fashion with her sell-out full bush thong, reigniting conversations around pubic hair and societal beauty standards, particularly for women.   In a world where the hair removal industry is worth billions, does this mean the bush is back?   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Dr Esme Louise James an educational content creator who explains the origins of our obsession with hairlessness and whether we’re finally seeing a shift in body hair norms. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A fierce internal battle for the highly-coveted number one driver status at McLaren has intensified rivalry between Formula One teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. With both young guns contracted long-term, this dramatic feud is spilling onto the track and could even jeapordize McLaren's bid to become F1 champions. In today's episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks how healthy competition between the Australian and Brit has morphed into a beef and reached boiling point at high-stakes moments, triggering wider repercussions and a PR nightmare.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sanae Takaichi has become Japan’s first female Prime Minister, but many experts say it’s not a win for women. The former TV host is a conservative with hardline views on marriage and family, and has promised to turn around a tanking economy and a cost-of-living crisis. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by ABC’s North Asia Correspondent, James Oaten, to unpack the new PM’s policies and why the world is watching.   Headlines: There are calls for a new police investigation into the decades-old cold case of missing toddler Cheryl Grimmer, The UNs’ top court has ruled that Israel must allow aid groups unrestricted access to Gaza, and Journalist Michael Wolff has filed a lawsuit against US First Lady Melania Trump.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: ADF official to join Trump’s Gaza peace team, two dead in Melbourne waters during wild weather, Telstra warns some Samsung phones can’t call 000, grocery delivery via apps costs up to 39% more, and what's the weirdest fine you've copped?  Deep Dive: A multi-agency investigation is underway after a suspected piece of space junk crash-landed in remote Western Australia, reigniting concerns over what and how much of it is floating above us.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou chats with astrophysicist Brad Tucker from the Australian National University about what likely landed in the Pilbara, whether we should be worried about being hit by falling space debris, and what it tells us about the growing mess orbiting Earth.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pressure is mounting on the Royal family as the fallout from Virginia Giuffre's bombshell new memoir continues, which was released this week. The book has more damaging allegations about Jeffrey Epstein and Prince Andrew, with some Royal experts saying this latest scandal may even force King Charles to abdicate.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by journalist Angela Mollard to unpack this week’s developments and why the Monarchy is facing its biggest crisis in decades.  Headlines: South Australia’s Attorney-General has called for a review of the decision to grant parole to Snowtown killer James Vlassakis, INTERPOL has issued a global alert after the multi-million dollar Jewellery heist at the Louvre, and police have arrested a man after uncovering 43 allegedly stolen Labubu dolls.  This episode contains descriptions of sexual assault and suicide. If you or anyone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Extreme weather lashing Australia, woman accused of brazen daylight stabbing remains behind bars, Aussie mum’s landmark work from home win, tougher penalties for companies breaking environmental laws, and over a third of you support the government ‘stealing’ from us.  Deep Dive: AI cheating is rife at universities across the country, with educators struggling to crack down.  In recent months, over a dozen universities were found to have wrongly accused students of cheating with AI, while failing to catch others who were.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with AI cheating researcher, Professor Phillip Dawson from the University of Deakin, about the flow-on effects of AI cheating in academia and what we can do about it.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rudd’s the strategist and Gillard’s the negotiator - two Labor leaders, two Prime Ministers and one political party locked in a cycle of self-destruction. What began as a dream team that swept the Howard Government from power in a historic landslide soon descended into one of the most bitter rivalries in Australian political history. In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks the rise of Kevin Rudd in the 'Kevin 07' era, the dramatic downfall that followed and how Julia Gillard became Australia's first (and only) female Prime Minister.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was almost 12 months in the making, but finally Anthony Albanese has met with Donald Trump for their long-awaited sit down. While there was a little distraction with US Ambassador Kevin Rudd, most experts say the meeting was a major success and the US Australia alliance is firmly back on track.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by International Affairs expert Bec Strating who unpacks the key takeaways and why this is the good news story Australia needs.  Headlines: China has hit back at Australia claiming it illegally entering its airspace, major arrests in a nationwide crackdown on illegal weapons, and Amazon Web Services has returned to normal after a massive internet outage.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Albanese and Trump sign critical minerals deal worth billions, Amazon struggling to fix an outage that’s affected millions of users, authorities working to trace source of rat poisonings in Queensland, Victoria’s set to ban masks and chains at protests, and the AFL’s warning to Bailey Smith over controversial social media posts.  Deep Dive: Former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce says he wants out of The Nationals and could soon be teaming up with Pauline Hanson.   So what’s driving the move, and could it signal a bigger shift on Australia’s political right?  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Dr Jill Sheppard from the Australian National University about the tensions inside the Coalition, the rise of One Nation, and what this all means for the future of the political right in Australia.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.