The Briefing

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.

Bec Judd first made headlines in ‘that’ red dress at the Brownlow Medals, a moment that catapulted her into the national spotlight and created a media frenzy. The Perth girl went from working in trauma wards as a speech pathologist to presenting on national TV, becoming a businesswoman and one of Australia’s most famous WAGs. In this chat with Helen Smith, Bec reveals why she’s why she’s choosing to be transparent about cosmetic work, the questions she's asked that her husband never is and and the beauty procedures she refuses to try - despite being shamelessly vain. Weekend list with Antoinette Lattouf: TO READ: Tilda is Visible by Jane Tara TO READ: Come Together by Eliza Hull TO Watch: Chef's Table on Netflix TO LISTEN: Secrets We Keep: Lone Actor Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fascinating new research has revealed why sport has become our new religion.  An Australian sports expert has delved into how being part of team as a player or passionate fan can literally change your brain and gives us powerful connections and a sense of community.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Professor Aaron Smith to unpack the latest research and the fascinate science behind why sport makes us tick.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom Picture credit: Carlo Allegri/Reuters See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Donald Trump demands answers after IDF strikes Gaza's only Catholic Church, Australia is in the midst of a vicious flu season with respiratory illnesses surging, Australian law firm launches action against Qantas over cyber attack, tributes flow for Australian killed in base jumping accident and it turns out y'all love a conspiracy theory!  Deep Dive: Can Kyle Sandilands end racism?Kyle Sandilands and Eddie McGuire are among the faces of a new national anti-racism campaign - but are they the right people for the job?  Backed by major media outlets including Channels 7, 9 and 10, KIIS owner ARN and News Corp, the #StandUpToHate campaign is being billed as an “unprecedented show of solidarity” against racial hatred. Yet some are questioning whether these ambassadors undermine the message.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with journalist and founder of Back Cover Media, Mibengé Nsenduluka about the campaign, its choice of spokespeople, and whether it can drive real change.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: Bank exec charged with procuring under-age girls for sex found dead, Aussie dollar down as unemployment rate rises, Palestinian Ministry of Health reports over 58,000 killed in Gaza since October 7 and Tomorrowland mainstage engulfed by flames. Deep Dive: Credit and debit surcharges are costing Australians billions of dollars every year. But who’s making the profit? The RBA announced this week that it wants to crack down on a major loophole and abolish the surcharges.  In this episode, Natarsha Belling is joined by Brad Kelly, co-founder of Independent Payments Forum, who explains how the surcharges work and why the planned overhaul may actually be bad news for small businesses and consumers.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A little tracking tag in your bin might seem harmless - but what happens when that data is combined with all the other tech tracking your life?  From profiling your household habits to being used in ways you’d never expect, the risk goes far beyond waste collection.  In part two of this deep dive, Chris Spyrou speaks with former FBI and US intelligence officer turned cybersecurity expert Dr Dennis Desmond on how your everyday data can be harvested, weaponised – and how to protect yourself.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Donald Trump turns on his own supporters labelling them weaklings over the Epstein Files saga, Israel has struck the capital of Syria killing at least three, birthrate's in Aussie cap cities declined further this year, Australians are losing $110 million a week in unpaid super, and two footy legends have gone head to head, not on the field but in the ring!  Deep Dive: Your bin is spying on youEver noticed a little green chip under your council bin? It's an RFID tag used by waste management services across Australia to boost efficiency, but could the data it collects be used for more than tracking collections?   In part one of this two-part deep dive, Chris Spyrou speaks with the CEO of Veolia Australia and New Zealand to find out why our bins are being fitted with this tech and whether fears of “Bin Brother” are justified.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: Two Sydney childcare workers charged with alleged assault, 10 million vapes seized as new data finds fewer young Aussies vaping and a global Matcha shortage.  Deep Dive: Bradley John Murdoch, the man convicted of murdering British backpacker Peter Falconio, has died at 67, without ever revealing where Falconio’s body is. His death comes just weeks after police increased the reward for information relating to the murder to $500,000, reigniting hope Peter’s remains may finally be found.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with criminologist and associate professor Xanthé Mallett, who explains why Murdoch always maintained his innocence and refused to reveal what happened to Peter’s body.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Anthony Albanese signs six new deals with China, police warn list of childcare centres accused child abuser Joshua Brown worked at will likely grow, State schools reporting violent incidents in classrooms every four minutes, First nations peoples and climate activists share their disappointment in a Federal Court ruling over the Torres Strait islands, and the Emmy nominations are out! Deep Dive: A handful of decisions made by a young German backpacker were the difference between life and death, after she went missing in the remote WA wilderness for 11 days  Authorities and experts have dubbed Carolina Wilga's survival a miracle, with the 26-year-old being found alive and well after braving subzero temperatures, rain, wind and rocky terrain with limited food and water.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by survival expert and bushcraft teacher Jake Cassar on what likely saved the backpackers' life, and his non-negotiables for braving the bush, whether you're a tourist, seasoned camper or find yourself lost too.Further listening from the headlines: Red flags of a child predatorWhy Netflix is so not chill Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bitcoin is booming, reaching an all-time high this week with some experts saying it could be the next liquid gold.  The United States is now debating rules and regulations around crypto currencies with a push to shakeup the framework.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Investment Analyst Justin Lin to unpack why Bitcoin is surging and is it the new way to make a fortune?  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Trump threatens Russia with ‘very severe tariffs’ as he unveils new weapons plan for Ukraine, former Greens candidate Hannah Thomas to front court today as police investigate threat video to Melbourne tech business, German backpacker shares a heartfelt message to Aussies from her hospital bed, more than a third of young Aussies are exploited by their employers, and a Sydney man has been charged after trying to pinch the Stone of Scone in Scotland! Deep Dive: Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp and Chris Brown have all faced allegations of abuse - yet remain in “pass baskets,” where fans overlook their problematic track record and continue supporting their work.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith speaks with sex and relationship expert Georgia Grace to unpack why we keep putting celebrities in “pass baskets” and what it says about fame, accountability, and cultural change.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon headlines: Government accidentally released Treasury advice to ABC, Country Road closes stores as operating profits drop more than 71% and Trump will be hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle Deep Dive: The Jeffrey Epstein files are threatening to destroy the Trump Administration with its powerful MAGA base demanding answers over broken promises. President Trump had promised to release the top-secret documents but now the FBI says they don’t exist. In this episode of the Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by US politics and foreign policy expert, Associate Professor David Smith, to unpack if there is a list and what these turn of events could mean for Trump. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Anthony Albanese continues his week-long visit to China, NSW Police defends actions of cop who shot dead machete-wielding man at a Westfield, disturbing findings in the Air India crash report, QLD Premier David Crisafulli announces CFMEU Inquiry, and we have a Wimbledon winner! Deep Dive: More than half of young Aussies are putting their lives at risk by taking part in choking during sex. That’s according to various experts who say it not only plays a significant role in domestic and family violence cases, but causes long term physical harm.  Those findings led the UK Government to announce it will ban the depiction of strangulation in porn, with advocates now calling for Australia to do the same.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with the CEO of the Red Rose Foundation, Lucy Lord, on the hidden dangers of strangulation in sex.   Further listening from the headlines: Fire, fear and politics at the CFMEU Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS: This is a story that you've never heard before - what really happened in the lead up to Australia’s worst terrorist Brenton Tarrant opening fire on worshippers at a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand. For years, we’ve been told he was a “lone actor”.  But a new LiSTNR investigation Secrets We Keep: Lone Actor reveals this narrative is far from the truth.   In this podcast, our colleague Joey Watson traces the terrorist’s footsteps around the world, uncovering shocking new evidence of his interactions with a shadowy global network of far-right extremists.   In this episode of The Briefing’s we're giving you episode 1 as a bonus but if you’re hooked and want more, you can keep listening here: https://linktr.ee/secretswekeeppodcast  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Krissy Marsh admits she 'likes to show off' - and it’s exactly that unapologetic flair that’s made her one of the most entertaining stars of The Real Housewives of Sydney. The proud mum, former model, real estate boss and Mandarin-speaking Brisbane girl is so much more than a ‘housewife’ making a name for herself far beyond the screen. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Krissy reveals why she live with no regrets, the personal philosophy that keeps her grounded and how she became an ambassador for Ronald McDonald House. Weekend list with Helen Smith and Chris Spyrou:  TO READ: What Plastic Surgery Couldn’t Fix in The Cut by Nick Dothée TO EAT: Pretty butter board for dinner parties TO DO AND EAT: Learn passed down recipes from your family TO LISTEN: Kellyoke singalong  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: Donald Trump nominates Sydney-born Nick Adams as US ambassador to Malaysia, missing German backpacker Carolina Wilga likely to have abandoned broken-down van in WA outback and Jane Birkin’s original Hermès handbag becomes most expensive fashion accessory ever sold.  Deep Dive: Formula One Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has been sacked after 20 years in the top job, rocking the F1 world. The racing powerhouse was plagued by recent scandals including allegations of inappropriate behaviour and tensions with star driver Max Verstappen and his father.  In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Sports Broadcaster Greg Rust, host of LiSNTR’s Rusty's Garage to unpack what will become of the Red Bull F1 team.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Special Envoy's antisemitism recommendations labelled draconian, Sydney cops face court for violent attack on mentally ill woman, new data reveals hanging point deaths are rising in Australian prisons, eSafety Commissioner releases data showing YouTube's harm and Big W pulls MAGA hats from online store.Deep Dive: Inside the cult of HYROXHYROX is the global fitness phenomenon turning everyday athletes into endurance competitors - and it’s gaining serious traction in Australia.  With 21,000 racers taking part in its biggest event yet in Sydney over the weekend, the sport’s blend of functional training and competition is drawing a loyal following.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with former journalist and HYROX racer Joseph Ogilvie about the rise of the sport and what sets it apart in an already crowded fitness space. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: Fatal car crash in Melbourne playground leaves one dead and two critically injured including a child, special envoy’s report to combat antisemitism handed down and Australian teenage surfer found alive on a remote island after he was missing at sea overnight Deep Dive: The equivalent of a Boeing 737 full of Australians are dying every month because of drug overdoses, often from common everyday medications.  A confronting new report reveals many of these deaths are preventable, with health experts calling for better education programs.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by public health and safety expert John Ryan to find out how we all can play a role in turning this devastating trend around. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Warnings over CCTV in childcare to combat abuse, Europe’s top court rules Russia downed MH17, Elon Musk's AI company working to remove posts after chatbot praises Hitler, a surging number of young Australians are pushing life insurers into a $2.2bn crisis and Queensland takes out Origin 2025! Deep Dive: Antoinette Lattouf on her win against the ABC The Weekend Briefing’s host Antoinette Lattouf has been covering stories as a journalist for 20 years – but she became the top story herself when she took on the ABC for unfair dismissal over a social media post 18 months ago.  In this episode of The Briefing, Antoinette opens up to Helen Smith about what it was like at the centre of a scandal, her response to accusations of bias and why she is determined to keep speaking out about human rights atrocities in Gaza. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: Australia is investigating "concerning" new tariffs from Trump on pharmaceuticals, QANTAS reveals around 5.7 million customers impacted by latest cyber-hack and Penny Wong refusing to confirm or deny reports she was targeted in a AI scam impersonating US Secretary of State Marco Rubio  Deep Dive: The Reserve Bank’s shock decision to keep interest rates on hold took many by surprise, including some financial experts who predicted a 92% chance off a cut.  So, what’s next and will the constant global uncertainity be a key factor in what happens with interest rates here in Australia.  In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by leading financial expert Sally Tindall from Canstar to unpack why rates were kept on hold this time and what the RBA is set to do next.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Democrats demand release of Epstein files as Trump hits out, Nagi Maehashi speaks out over her recipe in mushroom case, ‘Racist’ cop Zachary Rolfe responds to coroner’s findings, Queensland facing 54,000 workforce shortfall ahead of Olympic Games and the State of Origin decider is tonight!  Deep Dive: Our 'underwater Chernobyl' Dead fish, vanishing oxygen, and what some are calling “underwater Chernobyl” - South Australia’s normally pristine coastline is facing an environmental crisis that’s been months in the making.  A toxic algal bloom is starving marine life, threatening a $500 million fishing industry and a $10 billion tourism sector. Now, there are calls for the Prime Minister to declare a national disaster.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young about the scale of the crisis, why it’s being overlooked, and what needs to happen next.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been found guilty of murder and attempted murder, after serving up a beef Wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023.   She pled not guilty to all charges.   In this special series of The Briefing, Helen Smith unpacks the trial in under two minutes.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: RBA holds interest rates at 3.85 per cent, Donald Trump nominated by Benjamin Netanyahu for Nobel Peace Prize, and Scarlett Johansson becomes the highest grossing actor in Hollywood. Deep Dive: Why did Erin Patterson murder her family members and think she would get away with it?  Questions are continuing on whether the 50-year-old will appeal her conviction, after a jury found her guilty on three murder charges and one for attempted murder.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by criminal psychologist Tim Watson-Munro to unpack why the mushroom murder trial captured the attention of millions around the world.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Erin Patterson guilty of murder, 100 families may sue childcare centre over Joshua Brown alleged abuse, Death toll from Texas floods surpass 90 as locals campaign for early warning systems, Borrowers to expect another round of relief following today’s RBA meeting, and Aldi is trialing grocery delivery in Australia. Deep Dive: Should all men be banned from working in childcare? Would a national register or mandatory CCTV help? And what should a worker do if they’re suspicious of a colleague?  Jon Rouse spent decades in law enforcement, rescuing and protecting children worldwide from child sex offenders and exploitation networks. He knows how predators operate and where the weaknesses are in our systems.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Jon about why the childcare industry isn’t detecting offenders and the red flags we should all know.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been found guilty of murder and attempted murder, after serving up a beef Wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023.   She pled not guilty to all charges.   In this special series of The Briefing, Helen Smith unpacks the trial in under two minutes.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: NT coroner hands down findings into 2019 Yuendumu police shooting of Kumanjayi Walker and Trump's Department of Justice and FBI concluded there is no evidence Jeffrey Epstein kept a “client list” Deep Dive: Erin Patterson has been found guilty of murder and attempted murder after serving a beef Wellington laced with death cap mushrooms. Making her one of Australia’s worst mass murders.   In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by associate professor and criminologist Xanthé Mallett from CQUniversity to explain the verdict.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Jewish leader wants mandatory antisemitism training introduced after spate of antisemitic attacks in Melbourne, a Queensland zoo worker is stable after being mauled by a lion, death toll from Texas floods climbs, Alex de Minaur faces off against Novak Djokovic tonight at Wimbledon! Deep Dive: Disheartened tenants and advocates are calling for a national crackdown on dodgy real estate practices, including doctored property pictures and overboard rental applications.  One state’s hoping to pave the way, introducing new legislation to clamp down on the tactics and aiming to give tenants more rights when looking for a home.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with NSW Tenants Union CEO Leo Patterson Ross and NSW Housing Minister Rose Jackson about the changes on the way, and whether it’ll make a difference.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, a chilling case in Melbourne has put the issue of child sex abuse into the national spotlight. A childcare worker has been charged with allegedly abusing young children in his care, leading to 1200 families being urged to have their young children tested for STIs.  IN 2022, LiSTNR released the critically acclaimed podcast documentary series The Children in the Pictures, which exposed the silent epidemic of online child sex abuse.   In light of recent events, we’re revisiting this crucial topic by bringing you episode 8, in which host Akhim Dev speaks with leading police and experts in the field. They give important insights and strategies we can take to better protect our children in an increasingly vulnerable world.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mitch Wallis is big on three words - 'I’m not ok.' The founder of mental health charity Heart On My Sleeve went viral after having a raw very public breakdown and he’s been on a mission ever since. Since that moment, he’s studied psychology, started a global movement and written a book on how we can have better conversations around mental health. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Mitch explains the impact graphic content on social media has on us and why it took him years to finally sit down with a psychologist. Weekend list with Helen Smith and Chris Spyrou:  TO WATCH: Trainwreck doco series on Netflix TO TRY: Elevated matcha latte  TO WATCH (in a cinema): Jurassic World Rebirth  TO LISTEN: Secrets We Keep: Lone Actor  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: Government pushes new federal laws to protect children in childcare, Liverpool stars supercar had been recalled before death and Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom confirm separation.   Deep Dive: US President Donald Trump’s controversial “big, beautiful bill” passed the US Congress overnight. The bill adds trillions of dollars to the nation’s already crippling debt and sees major cuts to health care, with the US President saying the major win gives him even more power. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by US political expert Professor Brendon O’Connor to unpack the landmark bill and what the implications are for the already fragile US economy and the Trump administration.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Tributes flow for Liverpool FC star Diogo Jota, alleged Melbourne child abuser may have had more contact with kids, Australia's Privacy Watchdog warns of ‘vishing’ scam post Qantas cyber-attack, BBC senior staff told to 'step back' from duties following Glastonbury, and just 8% of Briefers will be taking party in Dry July! Deep Dive: The eleventh iteration of Superman hits cinemas next week and is tipped to dominate the box office.  Meanwhile, Pixar’s Elio flopped with the worst opening in the studio’s history, Lilo & Stitch’s live-action remake broke records, and The Devil Wears Prada 2 has just been announced.   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with screenwriter and producer Michael Lucas about why Hollywood keeps revisiting the same stories and why we keep showing up. Further listening from headlines: Glastonbury: Free speech or crime?Qantas hack explained Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Headlines: Parents say Alleged childcare sex offender Joshua Dale Brown might have worked across more dates in centres than authorities initially identified, NSW man dies from 'rabies-like' virus after bat bite and Eileen Bond ex-wife of controversial businessmen Alan Bond dies Deep Dive: It’s the trial that gripped the world, Sean 'Diddy' Combs, one of music’s most powerful men facing life behind bars after facing a number of sex trafficking and prostitution charges.  Today the jury handed down its verdict finding Diddy not guilty of the most serious allegations and guilty on two prostitution charges.  In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Music Industry expert, Associate Professor Catherine Strong from RMIT University, to unpack the downfall of Diddy.   If you or anyone you know needs help you can call 1800 Respect National Helpline: 1800 737 732 and Lifeline (24-hour crisis line): 131 114 Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs not guilty of sex trafficking, Kanye West banned from entering Australia, ‘Bomb cyclone’ leaving, rain and flooding incoming, a Queensland council forced to pause demolishing a homeless camp, and 3.2 million Aussies expected to take part in Dry July. Deep Dive: From nuclear threats to climate change and AI, the world has never been closer to ‘Doomsday’.  Each year a group of experts from the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists set the world’s Doomsday Clock, letting us know our risk of existential threat.  In 2025, the globe’s just 89 seconds to midnight – the closest we’ve ever been to catastrophe.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with the President and CEO of the Bulletin of The Atomic Scientists, the publication behind the Doomsday Clock, about what’s got us here and the tools we have to fix it.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.