The Briefing

The Australian Defence Force is getting smarter, savvier, and more strategic in its recruitment, with it’s highest annual intake in 15 years, and you might be surprised by what’s causing the trend. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Behavioural Economist, Professor Robert Hoffman, to unpack the psychology behind a surprising global surge in military enlistment, and why the ADF’s battle for talent might just be its most important mission yet.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: US warns Australia must meet with Trump over ‘critical’ AUKUS deal, chilling footage revealed of accused Melbourne double murderer, UTS staff facing job loss told to 'do some laundry' to manage stress, the average Aussie is earning more than ever but we still feel broke, and your thoughts on property millionaires, the Denmark Zoo saga and Insta's controversial map feature. Deep Dive: It can be hard to tell what’s real in the world of celebrities, amid a sea of cosmetic surgery, white veneers, tightly-controlled branding and picture-perfect relationships.  But today a PR insider is lifting the lid on the hidden practice of manufactured celebrity relationships, aimed at boosting exposure, image and popularity.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Billy Daniels, owner of PR agency Billy Etc, to get the scoop on which celebrities’ relationships are real - and which are likely not.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Australian research has uncovered a dangerous new trend on TikTok, with a growing number of unqualified influencers spreading misinformation about female contraception. Despite having no medical qualifications, these social media stars are giving harmful advice to women about sex, leading to an increase in unwanted pregnancies and STIs.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with public health expert Megan Bugden on what they uncovered in their research and the dangerous, life-changing consequences.  Headlines: Anthony Albanese claims a statement from Hamas is incorrect and propaganda from the terror group, US President Donald Trump has warned Russia ahead of his meeting this weekend, and the sole survivor of a helicopter crash in the Northern Territory has given evidence.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: The coalition has slammed Anthony Albanese for his decision to recognise a state of Palestine, Commonwealth Bank urged to repay fees of 2 million low-income customers after recording $10b profit, Netflix star Matt Wright’s trial will hear from more witnesses today, young men Australia's biggest phone addicts, and an Aussie teen chasing his NFL dream has gone viral for a tearful homesick message. Deep Dive: A new study that suggests artificial sweeteners increase your risk of diabetes has received criticism online, despite being carried out by one of the country’s top experts.   Critics argue it doesn’t meet the medical research gold standard, while media coverage lacked important context and nuance.   So how do us regular folk tell scientific fact from fiction, when even the experts can’t seem to agree?   On this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Dr Evangeline Mantizioris, Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences at the University of South Australia, about what makes a study credible, and how to treat such research when making decisions about your own health.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Real estate agents underquoting is back in the headlines with authorities cracking down on the illegal practice. But now there are calls for the dodgy agents who often make millions of dollars in commission to face tougher penalties.   In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by buyer’s agent Julie DeBondt-Barker, who explains how underquoting is preventing young people from buying homes and why the real estate industry needs an overhaul.  Headlines: A 34-year-old man has faced court charged with the murders of a pregnant woman and her partner in Melbourne’s south-east, a 41-year-old Victorian man has been arrested after a police firearm was discharged inside Sydney domestic terminal and Netflix just got more expensive (again).  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Julie Bishop labelled a hostile bully at uni senate inquiry, Apple and Google lose landmark court case to Fortnite developer over anti-competitive conduct, WA is overhauling the states surrogacy and IVF laws, one in five Aussies carry incurable parasite from cats, and Freddo Frog shrinkflation! Deep Dive: Distraction politics take place nearly every day - in an attempt to steer us away from the negative or put a spin on something. Most recently US President Donald Trump has been accused of creating a distraction from the Epstein files and tariffs with his Washington police takeover, in what spin doctors would call pivoting, a commonly used tactic. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Caroline Fisher, former spin doctor and media adviser to Queensland’s former premier Anna Bligh and is an adjunct professor from the University of Canberra, to share her personal experience in the job.   Further listening: Secrets We Keep: By Any Means Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An investigation into the ankle monitoring of accused criminals on bail has exposed a shocking flaw in the system. A private company who was supposed to monitor the alleged offenders in our community stopped operations without notifying authorities. Now, at least two state governments are abolishing ankle monitoring altogether, with a flawed system with concerning loopholes set to take over.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by News Corp journalist Josh Hanrahan who broke the story to explain how this could happen and what comes next with bail monitoring and the implications for community safety.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Kathleen Folbigg speaks out after ‘slap in the face’ wrongful conviction payout, mourners gather for funeral of media workers murdered by Israeli military, woman charged with foreign interference has hundreds of thousands in unexplained wealth, new road tax for EV users, and Harry and Meghan have penned a new multi-year TV deal with Netflix! Deep Dive: Vitamins and supplements are a multi-billion dollar industry here in Australia and are routinely added to food products like breakfast cereals, energy drinks and protein bars.    Over the last year reports of B6 blood toxicity are on the rise, which can have life-altering implications, with experts finding some energy drinks have six times the recommended daily intake of B6 in them.    In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Dr Terri-Lynne South, a GP and dietician from the Royal Australian college of GPS, to explain if we need to be taking supplements.    Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PM Anthony Albanese has announced Australia will formally recognise a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September. The move involves a number of conditions, including not allowing terror group Hamas to play any role in future governance.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by political expert Josh Roose from Deakin University to unpack what this historic move means for Australia, our alliance with the US and lasting peace in the Middle East.  Headlines: Five Al Jazeera employees have been killed in a targeted Israeli air strike in Gaza, The Guardian says the Labor Government has hired Deloitte to design a plan for universal childcare, and a meteor shower in Victoria.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deep Dive: French president Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte are suing right-wing podcaster Candace Owens over bizarre allegations that the First Lady is a man who has stolen an identity and committed crimes including fraud and forgery.  The legal action comes after the conspiracy exploded on social media worldwide.  So where did these claims come from and why are they getting traction? And why is Candace, who was refused entry to Australia last year, staking her entire career on this case?   In this two-part special, Tara Cassidy and Helen Smith break down the complex saga, assess the claims and explain the back story you need to know before you make up your mind who to believe.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has labelled Australia “shameful” over Gaza, the Reserve Bank is set to hand down their latest cash rate decision tomorrow, greyhound racing is set to finish up in Tasmania by 2029, we’re in for a soggy rest of winter and spring according to the weather bureau, and Instagram has a controversial new map feature that allows users to share their location with followers. Deep Dive: French president Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte are suing right-wing podcaster Candace Owens over bizarre allegations that the First Lady is a man who has stolen an identity and committed crimes including fraud and forgery.  The legal action comes after the conspiracy exploded on social media worldwide.  So where did these claims come from and why are they getting traction? And why is Candace, who was refused entry to Australia last year, staking her entire career on this case?   In this two-part special, Tara Cassidy and Helen Smith break down the complex saga, assess the claims and explain the back story you need to know before you make up your mind who to believe.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Music reality TV promises to turn ordinary singers into national icons — but what’s the secret formula behind these shows?  In this bonus episode of The Briefing, former judges Ian “Dicko” Dickson and Mark Holden reveal the controversies, iconic moments, and impact that reality TV had on Australia’s music industry.    Plus former contestants reveal the hidden side of overnight fame.    You can listen to all episodes of The Moment It Changed: Touchdown for free on Apple, Spotify, LiSTNR or wherever you get your podcasts.  This episode contains a mention of suicide. If you or anyone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alex Lee is a face you'll recognise from TV, whether it's from The Feed, Saturday Night Rove, Celebrity Mastermind, Spicks and Specks, The Checkout, Win the Week or What the FAQ.And as the journalist-turned-comedian points out, not ALL of those shows got axed. Alex recounts how shock jock and alleged sexual predator Alan Jones once tried to sue her over a comedy skit she made making fun of him. That would have been pretty darn stressful but she says that pales into comparison to the stresses of becoming a mum and feeling like the internet is constantly trying to guilt you into buying junk for your small human. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Alex also unpacks how mum-fluencers inspired her podcast Baby Shoes, part comedy, part therapy, and all-too-relatable for exhausted parents trying not to lose the plot. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO COOK: Homemade Dubai chocolate (dates + dark chocolate + pistachio spread) TO TRY: Holme Beauty TO TRY: Stardust period tracker app TO WATCH: The Australian Wars Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lured from a Canberra supermarket into the grip of a dangerous cult, Liz Cameron’s life spiralled into captivity, starvation, and a desperate fight to survive. In this episode, Liz reveals to Natarsha Belling how she was brainwashed, how her family staged a daring intervention, and why she’s speaking out to warn others about the hidden dangers of coercive control. Headlines: Israel’s security cabinet has approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan for a full military occupation of Gaza City, convicted rapist Gareth Ward has resigned from NSW Parliament, and previously inadmissible evidence in the Erin Patterson triple murder trial has now been revealed. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here's the evidence the jury in the mushroom triple murder trial wasn't allowed to hear. In this special update to The Briefing's coverage of this case, Tara Cassidy reveals allegations that murderer Erin Patterson had tried to poison and kill her estranged ex-husband Simon multiple times before. Until today, this information was under a strict non-publication order by the Victorian Supreme Court. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Kathleen Folbigg calls for inquiry into ‘insulting’ $2m wrongful conviction payout, Netenyahu plans full occupation of Gaza, 6yo girl discharged from Sydney hospital twice before dying of influenza, men outearn women in 98% of jobs, and a millionaire donates $100m to Aus vet school! Deep Dive: When you’re socializing in a group, are you the life of the party, a participant but exhausted from the effort – or are you the outsider looking in?  Until now, our personality traits have broadly been divided into two groups: extroverts and introverts.  But there’s a third, neglected group with hidden talents: the otroverts.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by psychiatrist Dr Rami Kaminski, author of The Gift of Not Belonging – and himself an otrovert.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the government rort ripping off millions of Australians that could be the next Robodebt disaster. We explain how a broken government payment system is seeing job and support payments cut off or cancelled, in many cases unlawfully.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by anti-poverty campaigner Kristin O’Connell, who explains how some of our most vulnerable are being unfairly targeted by a broken system that is allegedly being exploited by some operators, costing taxpayers billions of dollars.  Headlines: ANZ has shocked customers with a surprise rate hike, Anita Cobby's killer claims he was wrongfully convicted, and more bombshell allegations from a new tell all book about Prince Andrew.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Lawyers for sex offender Gareth Ward argue against his expulsion from NSW Parliament, Donald Trump says JD Vance is the next likely Republican candidate for 2028, the trial of Outback Wrangler TV star Matt Wright is underway, WhatsApp's deleted over 6.8 million accounts linked to scams, and we're in the 'Golden Age’ of swimming, better than Thorpe and O’Neill. Deep Dive: Videos of influencers and streamers gambling are becoming increasingly popular online, with the content largely targeting young people.   In videos shared to social media sites, streaming and video platforms influencers with thousands to millions of followers are filming themselves placing bets on online casinos and in real life at the pokies.   With Australia already home to the world’s biggest gamblers, and losers, the growing trend's got experts worried that it could draw in a whole new generation of problem gamblers.   In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with University of Sydney influencer and gambling researcher, Dr Mark Johnson, on how creators are bending the rules, and the lack of laws to stop them.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government’s excise freeze on draught beer is being hailed as a win for pubs, but how much is it really saving us?   In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Mick Gibb, CEO of the Nighttime Industries Association, who unpacks how this move has created a two-tier tax system that penalises small bars, live music venues, and cocktail lovers.  Headlines: A Sydney man has become the first in Australia to be charged with supplying nitazine, previously unseen Epstein letters and photographs have been published by The New York Times, and Sean “Diddy” Combs is seeking a presidential pardon. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: OceanGate Titan sub disaster was a 'preventable tragedy', DOJ orders investigation into Obama administrations Russian political interference probe, The Great Barrier Reef has recorded the largest mass bleaching event on record, Kmart denies sourcing products from factories linked to forced labour, and a Danish zoo is asking for unwanted animals to feed its predators. Deep Dive: ‘Go woke go broke’ is no longer true according to new research that found companies can embrace progressive values and pursue profit at the same time.   The study examines campaigns like Gillette's take on “toxic masculinity” and Nike’s ad featuring Colin Kapernick, analysing the intersection of political agendas and what happens when brands tackle social issues, like racism, inclusion and diversity.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Dr Peter Underwood from Auckland Law School to unpack what woke capitalism is and how companies can find a middle ground in the market.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our ASIO boss has warned Australia is under a growing threat from foreign espionage with spying from a number of nations now at unprecedented levels. Days after that warning, Federal Police have arrested a Chinese National accused of allegedly spying on a local Buddhist group.   In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by intelligence expert Chris Taylor to unpack why we’re seeing an increase in foreign threats and why we all need to think twice about the information we share, especially online.   Headlines: Japanese shipbuilder Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has secured a $10 billion contract to build the Australian Navy’s new fleet of warships, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to announce plans to fully occupy the Gaza Strip, and Donald Trump has weighed into the Sydney Sweeney ad controversy. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Opposition Leader Sussan Ley admits "there is hunger and starvation in Gaza", New evidence released from Erin Patterson murder case, Thousands of murder, rape and assault cases to be re-examined due to DNA lab bungle, Property boom prompts surge in Australian millionaires to global high, Tesla awards chief executive Elon Musk $44 billion worth of shares. Deep Dive: You might have heard of donating blood and plasma, but what about donating your poo?  Well it turns out your stool could help save lives in more ways than one.  Right now in Australia poo donations are being used for fecal microbiota transplants, to help cure painful, debilitating and sometimes deadly diseases.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Kevin Young, an FMT recipient, about how the procedure saved his life, and Lifeblood’s Elizabeth Connolly on how it might be used in future. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Victorian government has announced a new plan to legislate working from home. But is the Australian first proposal just a quick grab for votes in the upcoming state election or could this give workers new rights?  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by employment lawyer Graeme Watson, who unpacks the legal ramifications of this controversial new move and your legal rights as an employee.  Headlines: The Prime Minister has requested a meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu, new AFP Commissioner announced, and Prince Harry has denied explosive new claims he gave his Uncle a bloody nose after a fight. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: 100-thousand people march along the Sydney Harbour Bridge yesterday, Home and Away's Lynne McGranger takes out Gold Logie, Emergency crews launch desperate search for passengers on board missing plane, Australian Defence Force increases staff levels through social media and gaming, and Robert Irwin and Nigella Lawson faces of new Tourism Australia campaign. Deep Dive: The Australian gas sector makes billions off our natural resources each year, yet over half is being given away and exported for free, with little to no benefit for the everyday Aussie.   It’s been described as a loophole by some, “the great gas scam” by others, with taxpayers estimated to be missing out on $13 billion because of it.   And we're not just missing out on money, it’s also costing us cash, with the gas sector and untapped exports contributing to surging gas and electricity prices too.   In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with independent senator David Pocock on what’s behind the costly problem, and what it’ll take to fix it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus episode: Who is Sharon Graham? Tara Cassidy speaks to those closest to the grandmother, who was now one of the police’s main murder suspects. Tara unravels the different sides Sharon presented to people and starts to see some patterns in her behaviour, especially around money and men.  Today our bonus episode is episode 2 of Tara's podcast Crime in Focus: Killer Charm. You'll hear how a murder investigation opens after a man falls into a woodchipper in suspicious circumstances. And what has a suburban grandmother in a bizarre love quadrangle got to do with it? To keep listening, you can get the full series of Crime in Focus: Killer Charm for free on Apple, Spotify, LiSTNR or wherever you get your podcasts.  All people convicted of murder related to this case have lodged their intentions to appeal the outcomes. At the point of publishing this podcast those appeals have not progressed further.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maz Jobrani is the Iranian-born American comedian who accidently created a fantasy scenario for immigration body ICE. The stand-up comedic and actor found himself swapping his political science degree for telling occasionally deportation-prone jokes and it paid off. He’s been in Hollywood blockbusters, has Netflix specials and was a guest on James Corden, Jay Leno and The Late Show with Steven Colbert. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Maz reveals how he finds comedy in global geopolitical chaos, and whether recently being named a top 20 ‘Great Immigrant’ is code for ‘watch your back, immigration body ICE is coming for you’. He’s currently on tour here in Australia, find dates here! Weekend list with Helen Smith TO READ: Boogie Wonderland, a memoir by Kate Halfpenny  TO EAT: No bake banana bread cookie dough balls TO TRY: Somatic therapy by a registered practitioner TO TRY: Facebook hair model groups e.g. Hair Models Sydney NSW *No In-Home Salons! Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While climate change can feel overwhelming, a bold group of young Australians is turning anxiety into action. They call themselves the Future Council - and they’ve travelled the world challenging global leaders and top CEOs to do better. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with filmmaker Damon Gameau and 15-year-old climate activist Ruby Rodgers about their powerful new documentary and the movement they hope will inspire the rest of us to act. Headlines: Australia has escaped a feared jump in US tariffs, A Western Australian woman found guilty of giving birth to a baby that was later discovered in a freezer has avoided going to prison, and Father Chris Riley, founder of charity Youth Off the Streets, has died aged 70. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: ASIO boss says foreign spies targeting defence employees working on AUKUS, 91 people killed by Israeli fire waiting for aid as US envoy arrives in Israel for ceasefire talks, MMA fighter Conor McGregor loses appeal to overturn a civil rape case, Australia's towns with most Airbnb's and Bonnie Blue doco ‘1000 Men and Me’ causes outrage. Deep Dive: Imagine if you couldn’t brush your teeth, put on your mascara or gel your hair because the products you wanted to use weren’t accessible to you.   This is the reality for 20% of our population who live with disability, but only 4% of products are accessible, according to a global study on the accessibility of personal care products.   In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Storm Menzies, founder of ByStorm Beauty, to explain the importance of accessible beauty tools for both mental and physical wellbeing.   Further listening: Nest of Traitors - Episode 1 - Operation Liver and ‘I'm not a predator’: OnlyFans' Bonnie Blue defends Schoolies sex plan and What a survivor of sexual violence thinks of Bonnie Blue Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another twist in the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking case, as the family as Australian victim Virginia Guiffre releases a new statement lashing out at the US President.  They say the family and survivors deserve answers as pressure grows on the US Administration to reveal who was involved in one of the greatest sex trafficking rings in history.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by journalist Lucia Osborne-Crowley who reveals who really knows the truth and why she believes convicted offender Ghislaine Maxwell will walk free after receiving a Presidential Pardon.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pressure is mounting on the US government to name names in the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking case. It comes as the family of Australian victim Virginia Guiffre who died earlier this year releases a new statement lashing out at US President Donald Trump.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by journalist Lucia Osborne-Crowley to unpack who Jeffrey Epstein is, his powerful friends and the question we all should be asking.  Headlines: The identity of a Sydney childcare worker charged with more than a dozen child sex abuse offences has been revealed, Melbourne’s gangland war has erupted again, with a 21-year-old man shot dead in Melbourne’s outer north, and the family of Virginia Giuffre has spoken out after bizarre new allegations from Donald Trump.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Tsunami alerts lifted as record earthquake causes millions to evacuate, Ozzy Osbourne fans flock to Birmingham paying tribute to the Prince of Darkness, convicted triple-murderer Erin Patterson restricted from selling home, cars sold in Australia using more fuel and emitting more toxic fumes than advertised and Katy Perry spotted with former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau.   Deep Dive: The Sydney Harbour Bridge has been closed for reconciliation in 2000, World Pride month and even for a Hollywood movie, but what about Gaza?  The Palestine Action Group are planning to defy police this weekend by marching across the Harbour Bridge over concerns of mass starvation in Gaza. But authorities have denied the request and threatened prosecution of protesters who attempt to cross the bridge.   In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by David Mejia-Canales, Senior Lawyer at the Human Rights law Centre, to explain what our rights are to protest in Australia.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why are we forced to hand over so much private information when all we want is a receipt? As cyber-attacks become more commonplace, protecting our private information is more important than ever.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by consumer advocate Chandni Gupta who unpacks your legal rights and the need for an overhaul of privacy regulations to better protect consumers.   Afternoon Headlines: Millions of residents across the Pacific are on tsunami alert after an 8.8 magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of Russia, Donald Trump claims Jeffrey Epstein was stealing female staff from his Mar-a-Lago resort, and inflation has eased for the June quarter.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Israel accused Anthony Albanese of lying about Gaza, a Liberal MP’s made some divisive comments about gender quotas in parliament, a New York gunman who killed four people was meant to target the NFL headquarters, ChatGPT has announced they're launching a “study mode” to encourage responsible academic use of the chatbot, and apparently Sydney Sweeney has great jeans! Deep Dive: The Gen Z stare is taking over our algorithms, but what is the blank expressionless look young people are serving up trying to tell us?   Millennials have the ‘millennial pause’, that happens before they record a video and baby boomers even have their own version of the stare, known as the "lead paint stare" allegedly from the amount of lead they consumed over the years.   In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by TikTok expert Susan Grantham from Griffith University to unpack why the Gen Z stare is dividing the Internet and if there’s any scientific evidence to back it.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In another twist in the US trade war, US President Donald Trump has flagged some countries may face new penalties of 15 to 20 percent on their exports into the US.  Our Trade Minister Don Farrell says the government is still assuming Australia’s tariff is 10 percent, but will watch and wait. In this Episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by international trade expert Dr Scott French to unpack today’s developments and whether Australian exporters should be concerned.    Headlines: Authorities in the US have identified the gunman responsible for a mass shooting in a New York high rise, more than 40 jobs to be replaced with AI at the Commonwealth Bank, and Sir Michael Hill has died aged 86. Photo credit: AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Trump will ‘bring an end to the misery' in Gaza, New child safety bill could see providers feel force of law within weeks, Equality body to argue over whether sex is ‘binary biological reality’, Webjet has been hit with a $9 million fine from the ACCC, and Bend It Like Beckham is set for a re-boot. Deep Dive: Would you pay for a second chance at life after death?  Many Aussies are, having already signed up, and now paying to be the next to undergo cryogenic freezing when they die.  Two people have undergone the procedure at a cryonics facility in Australia so far, and while it's drawn its critics, enthusiasts say most of history’s greatest achievements first endured similar sentiment.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with South Australian resident Alex, a Southern Cryonics member, who’s signed up to see what the future holds. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s being reported as the biggest GST scam in Australian History. Tonight, the ABC is running a special investigation into how everyday fraudsters allegedly ripped the ATO off billions of dollars through an apparent loophole.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with Tax expert Ali Noroozi, about how the scam happened, what it means for the ATO and what happens next.  An ATO spokesperson said, "Through Operation Protego, we stopped $2.7 billion in false refunds quickly, raising nearly $2 billion in liabilities, and secured over 120 convictions – while strengthening our systems and pursuing every dollar owed." PM Headlines: Barnaby Joyce introduces bill to scrap net zero target, Celebrity Crocodile Wrangler, Matt Wright, has plead not guilty to three counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice & a video of Donald Trump allegedly cheating in golf has gone viral.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Anthony Albanese says Israel is "quite clearly" breaching international law by withholding aid from people in Gaza, US Gov divided over Ghislaine Maxwell pardon, YouTube is continuing to try and persuade the government not to include them in the under-16s social media ban, Do shark nets save lives or not?, and Gwyneth is now involved in the Coldplay kiss cam saga. Deep Dive: What does it take to stop starvation being used as a war crime?   Over 28 countries, including Australia are calling on Israel that the war on Gaza “must end now”, with the United Nation saying one in five children are malnourished due to Israel blocking aid from entering the strip.  Now, over 20 months in, Israel is allowing small airdrops of aid in three populated areas of Gaza for 10 hours a day, but the United Nations agency has called the announcement of the drops a ‘distraction’.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Georgia Tacey from Save The Children, about what she witnessed on the ground in Gaza, and the people fighting to expose Israel’s use of starvation as a war crime. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You know Tara Cassidy as the smart, genuine and self-deprecating host of The Briefing's morning edition, who is across everything from hard news to the latest reality show. But did you know she's also an acclaimed investigative journalist who had her own chart-topping LiSTNR crime podcast series before joining our team? Today our bonus episode is episode 1 of Tara's podcast Crime in Focus: Killer Charm. You'll hear how a murder investigation opens after a man falls into a woodchipper in suspicious circumstances. And what has a suburban grandmother in a bizarre love quadrangle got to do with it? To keep listening, you can get the full series of Crime in Focus: Killer Charm for free on Apple, Spotify, LiSTNR or wherever you get your podcasts.  All people convicted of murder related to this case have lodged their intentions to appeal the outcomes. At the point of publishing this podcast those appeals have not progressed further. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joey Watson has spent years inside the minds of extremists - diving deep into the dark world of white supremacy and far-right radicalisation to figure out what makes them tick. The award-winning investigative journalist’s latest project, Secrets We Keep: Lone Actor, uncovers the Christchurch attacks - one of the deadliest terror attacks in modern history where 51 Muslims were murdered as they prayed. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Joey explains what led him to believe, Australian gunman and terrorist,  Brenton Tarrant wasn’t acting alone and how his family history heavily impacts his work.   Weekend list with Helen Smith: TO EAT: Dumpling bake  TO EAT: Lebanese Mujadara  TO TRY: ByStorm beauty products TO WATCH: Untamed on Netflix  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research shows almost 70% of parents cite concussion and CTE risks as a key reason for discouraging their children from participating in contact sport.   In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with former AFL player Nathan Murphy, who was forced to medically retire at only 24 years old, because of repeated concussions. He now wants to educate others and is using his challenges to help find solutions, including working on an innovative new mouthguard.  PM Headlines: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's stern criticism of Israel, NSW MP Gareth Ward found guilty of sexual abuse, and the US Department of Justice meets with Jeffrey Epstein accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: The US Department of Justice is speaking with Ghislaine Maxwell, Hulk Hogan has died age 71, UN says People in Gaza 'are walking corpses', Five women who were strip searched at Doha airport have won the right to sue Qatar Airways, and we've got answers from you guys from our broadcast channel. Deep Dive: Are we witnessing the death of late-night television in the U.S?  The Late Show with host Stephen Colbert has been cancelled. Colbert telling a live audience this week ‘It's not just the end of our show, but it's the end of The Late Show on CBS... I'm not being replaced.’  While CBS insists the move has nothing to do with show performance or recent controversies, the timing has sparked intense speculation. As just days before CBS' parent company Paramount came to a US$16 million settlement with Donald Trump over a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by late-night TV expert and host of Saturday Night Network Jon Schneider from New York to unpack whether this is a one-off decision or a broader shift.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: US Beef imports ban lifted, Former PM Scott Morrison addresses US Congress, and Brian Kohberger sentenced for Idaho University student murders.  Deep Dive: Genea IVF is the latest company to reveal the enormity of a major data breach that has compromised the private medical information of thousands of its patients.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by one of the victims of the data breach who reveals exactly what confidential details the hackers were able to steal and then publish on the dark web. Anna says patients should have confidence that their private details will be kept safe and has an important warning for others.  You can read Genea's statement on the incident in full here. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: International Court of Justice says countries are liable for when it comes to climate harm, Australia has made a second payment of $800 million to the US for the Aukus agreement, House prices have risen in every state and territory in the country for the first time in four years, A fourth person has been charged in connection with the death of actor Mathew Perry, and our divorce rates are at their lowest in 50 years with marriages lasting longer. Deep Dive: Would you jump into a car with no one behind the wheel? While videos of Teslas changing lanes and driverless taxis navigating the streets of San Francisco and LA have gone viral, autonomous vehicles are closer to becoming a reality in Australia than you might think.  Driverless cars are already being trialled on public roads across the country, but new research shows one in five Aussies are turning off in-built safety features like lane departure warnings and emergency braking, admitting they don’t trust the technology.   In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Professor Michael Milford, Director of QUT’s Centre for Robotics to explain why Australia is still behind despite being a world leader in the development of autonomous vehicle technology.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: New proposed childcare reform, the jobs OpenAI says will disappear, and Ghislaine Maxwell to meet with US Justice Department. Deep Dive: Tributes are continuing to flow for Ozzy Osbourne and his extraordinary influence on music and culture. Known as the Prince of Darkness, Ozzy was the was the lead singer of Black Sabbath but also had a successful solo career and was the original king of reality TV.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by two-time ARIA award-winning producer & Lecturer in Contemporary Music, Dr Lachlan Goold, to unpack Ozzy’s rollercoaster life, his lifelong addictions and his incredible rock legacy. Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom   Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Iconic singer, song write Ozzy Osbourne has died age 76, The first day of Parliament, Trump releases Martin Luther King Junior FBI files, Joshua Dale Brown could be slapped with further child abuse charges,  and Uber is fighting against a blind woman in court. Deep Dive: A David and Goliath battle is playing out in an Australian court, which could set a precedent for councils making moves to effectively criminalise homelessness.   The Moreton Bay Council in Queensland’s been accused of breaching 13 homeless residents’ human rights by destroying their camps, belongings and not allowing them to own pets or assistance animals.   In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Sam Tracy from Basic Rights Queensland, one of the firms representing the residents, on why councils taking a hard-line approach does more harm than good.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: Parliament has officially returned for the first time since May’s Federal Election, four teenagers set to face court over for stealing a car which flipped and crashed in Melbourne and relative of Princes William and Harry found dead in her family home Deep Dive: The 4-day working week is back on the National Agenda as the federal government looks to fix our nation’s productivity crisis. New research has shown a shorter working week with the same pay boosts our performance and reduces burnout.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Future of Work expert Dr Libby Sander on what's holding some bosses back and why a 4-day week is just around the corner.  Follow The Briefing:  TikTok: @thebriefingpod Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom   Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Australia, UK, France and other nations call for immediate ceasefire on Gaza, PM says he regrets ‘repulsive’ Mark Latham being elected leader, $14 million federal funding to assist SA to deal with algal bloom, big name uni's don't lead to a better pay packet, and an Aussie has joined the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Deep Dive: There’s an infectious disease that's taking lives and leaving others severely disabled in Australia, despite there being a readily available vaccine.  Unlike other strains, Meningococcal B hasn’t always been part of the country's national immunisation program, but after a growing number of preventable injuries and deaths, various states have made it widely available and free.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Stacey Chater, a mother who lost her son to Meningococcal B, and the RACGP Vice President on what’s led to the problem, and which state’s are still falling behind. Further listening from headlines: Our 'underwater Chernobyl'  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: Support for the Opposition is at a 40-year low, feared many dead after a ferry caught fire and sank in Indonesia and investigations underway after a reported crocodile sighting in Noosa Deep Dive: It’s the conspiracy and alleged cover-up that’s rocking the Trump administration.  As pressure grows on the US government to reveal all they know about the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, the support of Trump’s MAGA power base is starting to shift, with some experts saying the US President will survive this latest scandal. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by US political expert Cory Alpert, who claims there is a top-secret Epstein list with powerful people from both sides of politics allegedly implicated.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: HECS in the spotlight as parliament returns on Tuesday, Senator Pauline Hanson demands Mark Latham give up his seat, Pope condemns ‘barbarity of war’ as 73 killed waiting for aid in Gaza, Mushroom lunch survivor’s first comments after Patterson verdict, and the Coldplay ‘kiss cam’ scandal just keeps on giving. Deep Dive: A landmark voting reform in the UK’s sparked the question of whether 16-year-old's are old enough to vote, after the country announced it was dropping its legal age from 18 to 16.  It's set to follow other countries like Austria and Brazil that already allow 16-year-old's to cast a vote at the ballot box, with some now calling on Australia to follow suit.  On this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks to Build A Ballot’s Lizzie Hedding about whether Australia’s youth are politically educated, and how to get Aussies engaged in the system that impacts every facet of their lives.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus episode: It’s one of our most popular and enduring TV reality shows, with a new line-up of celebrity judges and fame-chasing contestants returning to our screens next month for a fourteenth season.  Kate Miller-Heidke, Spice Girl Melanie C, Boyzone’s Ronan Keating, and 1980s hitmaker Richard Marx will take to the spinning chairs this year on the Channel Seven show.  But have you ever wondered what REALLY goes on behind the scenes on The Voice Australia? And what’s the true cost for those young hopefuls who take part?  In this bonus episode of The Briefing, you’ll hear the eye-opening truth from insiders including former winner Karise Eden and ex-contestant Matthew Hearne.  For more, including extraordinary revelations from former Australia Idol judges, you can listen to all episodes of The Moment It Changed: Touchdown for free on Apple, Spotify, LiSTNR or wherever you get your podcasts.  This episode contains descriptions of self-harm. If you or anyone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.  There's also references to family violence. If you or anyone you know needs support, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.