The Briefing

Afternoon Headlines: Anthony Albanese promises finical help for flood disaster victims, the Liberals and Nationals inch closer to reuniting and Donald Trump’s administration bans Harvard University from enrolling international students Deep Dive: Fair game or a disgrace to sport? The controversial Enhanced Games were officially launched this week with its first event set to take place next year in Las Vegas.  Aussie world champion James Magnussen is among those to sign up and take performance enhancing drugs to compete in the major event next year in Vegas with million dollar prizes up for grabs. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by sports journalists Tracy Holmes who argues the Enhanced Games aren’t about the athletes, they’re about the multi-billion-dollar bio tech industry.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Third body pulled from NSW flood waters, Benjamin Netanyahu accuses world leaders of being ‘on the wrong side of humanity’, Rapper Kid Cudi calls Diddy a ‘Marvel supervillain’ in court, Australia is already recording a record-breaking flu season, Aussie teens are turning away from booze, and Brisbane 2032 Olympics chief says sport selection needs to be 'realistic.'  Deep Dive: They’ve got maniacal eyes, razor teeth and an army of die-hard fans lining up for hours or paying thousands of dollars just to get one.  Labubus are the latest global obsession, popping up on backpacks and luxury handbags from Asia to Australia.  But what’s behind the hype? And who’s fuelling the frenzy?  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou unpacks the cultural chaos surrounding the plush toy with Helen Smith - talking all things fan madness to fashion symbols and why this creepy monster is having a very cute moment.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef Wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023.   She’s pled not guilty to all charges.   In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day seventeen of 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: Couple shot dead outside a Jewish Museum in Washington DC with ties to the Israeli Embassy and the Liberals and Nationals split has been put on hold Deep Dive: At least two people have died, three others are missing and over 50,000 are being told to evacuate in Northern NSW, in what's being called one of the worst flood disasters in Australian history.  Up to 600 millimetres have fallen in some areas, with thousands of rescue workers and SES crew on the ground, as the deadly weather system heads south. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by 7News journalist Sam Payne who’s on the ground for the latest on this unfolding crisis.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Almost 50,000 people isolated by one in 500 year flood, Donald Trump ambushes the President of South Africa, AFL great Joel Selwood has made his first public comments following the death of his brother Adam, groundbreaking new Alzheimer's treatment now available, and EV sales drop to lowest level in two years.  Deep Dive: Victoria’s construction industry has been rocked by a recent spate of violent attacks, from fire-bombed family homes to torched government-backed sites.   Allegations are now mounting that the CFMEU is trying to claw back control, just nine months after its construction arm was placed into administration.   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with award-winning investigative journalist Nick McKenzie, who broke the story for The Age and 60 Minutes, to unpack what’s really going on inside one of Australia's most powerful and influential unions. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef Wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023.   She’s pled not guilty to all charges.   In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day sixteen of 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: Thousands isolated from recording breaking floods, NSW Premier urged hundreds of thousands of commuters to leave work early with Sydney’s train chaos and former AFL umpire on the run accused of $9 million fraud scheme Deep Dive: NRL superstar Reece Walsh has gone viral from a video he posted showing him punching a friend to the ground. The latest sporting controversy has sparked a bigger controversy about role models, normalizing violence and providing a safe space for all men to have honest conversations. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr Zac Seidler the Global Director of Men’s Health Research at Movemeber who says we need urgent action to better support these role models and stop normalising violence.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial intelligence is transforming how we work, streamlining everyday tasks and enhancing productivity across industries. Platforms like Smartsheet are using AI to automate the repetitive parts of our jobs, giving us more time to focus on things like creativity and strategy. In this sponsored episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Helen Masters, Managing Director for Asia Pacific Japan at Smartsheet, to explore how Australians are working smarter with AI.Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: John Howard calls Coalition split a ‘stupid move’, Sydney trains still investigating cause of incident that shut down services last night, Ben Roberts Smith has been labelled “reckless and brazen” by judges, Sydney men sentenced over using Grindr to rob gay men, 1 in 2 Aussies needing help are skipping meals, and the world’s best chess player has finally met his match. Deep Dive: One of the states with the strongest police pursuit rules in the country is reviewing them this month, after a staggering spate of car related crimes, but the policy was first brought in to combat a growing number of deaths.   In 2024 there were at least ten fatalities from police pursuits in Australia, with deaths recorded in every state and territory.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by former police officer and Bond University's Associate Professor of Criminology, Terry Goldsworthy to discuss what needs to change.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef Wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023.   She’s pled not guilty to all charges.   In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day fifteen of 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: National Party to split from Liberals abandoning Coalition, Australia has joined 23 other countries condemning Israel’s plan to “take control” of Gaza blocking aid and Sesame Street saved by Netflix Deep Dive: The Reserve Bank of Australia has slashed the official cash rate by 0.25 percentage points, to 3.85 per cent. While it’s a big win for millions of mortgage holders, the RBA’s Governer has warned there is an uncertain and unpredictable road ahead. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Sally Tindall who unpacks what this latest cut means for means for our housing market, jobs and the economy.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Residents in parts of NSW are evacuating due to severe weather and flooding, Bondi Junction attack inquest’s expected to hear from more expert witnesses today, Israel issues fresh warnings as aid starts to flow, RBA tipped to cut cash rate today, and Telstra continues denying allegations it’s misled Australians. Deep Dive: A huge amount of what we engage with online is fake, from profiles to the comments, likes and views, much of it comes from ‘bots’.  While we know bots have been used in the past to spread disinformation, astroturf, spruik the next big brand or boost a follower count, who’s behind them, and what happens when they’re used to do harm instead of good?  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Digital Media Researcher Professor Timothy Graham about the world of bots, and the issues and ethics behind media manipulation. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomCover image credit: Copacabana Rural Fire Brigade - NSW RFSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef Wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023.   She’s pled not guilty to all charges.   In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day fourteen of 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: Qantas faces more than $120 million in penalties over illegally outsourcing staff, Vietnamese drug cartel allegedly involved in the murder of Sydney women and Joe Biden reviewing cancer treatment.  Deep Dive: After the tragic death of footy star Adam Selwood, mental health has been put back in the spotlight with calls for an AFL mental health round. Adam passed away just months after his twin brother died by suicide, leaving the Selwood family and the entire AFL community devastated. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by the chair of Lifeline Australia, Professor Steve Moylan to explain how we can prevent suicide and the crucial role we all play in connecting with others.    If you or anyone you know needs help:  Lifeline on 13 11 14  MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978  Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Pope Leo joined by world leaders for inauguration mass, former police officer extradited to face child abuse charges, 21yo facing 53 hate-related charges, Mexican ship lost power before colliding with Brooklyn Bridge, and Verstappen takes out Italian GP in Imola. Deed Dive: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared Israel will enter Gaza “with full force” - saying there will be “no situation where we stop the war”.  This escalation comes as Israel’s blockade on aid entering the strip enters its third month with warnings of famine and as US President Donald Trump suggests developing Gaza into a “freedom zone”.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith speaks with Dr Ayman Elattar and Claire Minera, from MSF who has just returned from the region, to unpack what this latest promise will mean for the 2.1 million Palestinians in the city.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jefferson Fisher could be the male version of Mel Robbins. He is part of the billion-dollar self-help industry fuelled by podcasts, books, TED talks and TikTok therapy - all promising how to be the best version of yourself. He’s the Texan lawyer teaching us how to communicate better, navigate conflict with class and tell if someone’s lying. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Jefferson unpacks society’s obsession with self-help, what’s driving our hunger for personal growth and why Australian’s are his biggest fans. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO LISTEN: The Moment it Changed: Touchdown TO DO: Visit your local state library TO LISTEN: Lamestream the podcast TO WATCH: Derry Girls on Netflix Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023. She’s pled not guilty to all charges. In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day thirteen of 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: Ben Roberts-Smith loses appeal bid to overturn defamation case vowing to head to the high court, Justin Bieber breaks silence over Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs trail and lowest paid Australians promised a wage increase Deep Dive: Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to mental health disorders including autism, ADHD and schizophrenia, according to new research.  One in five adults in Australia suffers from a lack of the vitamin D, with men having a higher risk of being deficient over women.  In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by one of the authors of the study, Professor John McGrath, to unpack what this data means for our mental health and how we can test for and treat vitamin D deficiency.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines:  Over a third of Australian homes now cost at least $1 million, new Greens leader Larissa Waters says she wants to bring the party back to its original roots, Donald Trump says he wants the US to take control of Gaza, polio outbreak in PNG threatens Australia, NSW has secured the Women's Origin series, and Australia opens Eurovision Semi Final 2!  Deep Dive:  In the early 2000s and 2010s, reality music TV turned unknown Australians into household names.  But in 2025, can you name the most recent Australian Idol winner?   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou chats with former record label executive and host of the new LiSTNR podcast The Moment it Changed: Touchdown, Nic Kelly to unpack what really happens after the confetti falls.   Why do so many winners disappear? And has Aussie music TV lost its magic, or just changed with the times? Further listening: Who is the 'Milkshake Man' representing Australia at Eurovision The Moment it Changed: Touchdown Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023. She’s pled not guilty to all charges. In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day twelve of 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: New Leader of the Greens elected, The Prime Minister has kicked off his first overseas trip since being re-elected, Manhunt underway in Sydney after a boarder force officer stabbed and World number one tennis player meets new Pope Leo  Deep Dive: New research has linked tracking apps and other social media to coercive control and cyberstalking.  While for many of us they’re a useful tool to check in on family and friends, the eSafety Commissioner is warning the apps can used to isolate, micro-manage and monitor others.  In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Commissioner Julie Inman Grant who has launched a new campaign flagging the warning signs to look out for and why big tech companies need to be held to account.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Greens to decide new leader, NSW abortion bill update, Bondi stabbings inquest continues today, a Queensland man is feared to have died in Ukraine, and Airbnb announces new services.Deep Dive: A global study’s found 250 genes linked to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder for the first time, and the parts of the brain the genes impact. It’s hoped the breakthrough will lead to improvements in OCD’s treatment and diagnosis, and help improve the lives of around 500, 000 Australians who have it.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with an OCD advocate and author of 'The Joy Chief' Penny Moodie, as well as one of the researchers behind the worldwide study.Further listening: Chris' chat with the Legalise Cannabis Party's NSW Senate Candidate Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023. She’s pled not guilty to all charges. In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day eleven of 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: Ex-Olympian won’t serve jail time after fatal crash killing his Olympian wife, AEC confirms missing ballots found at electoral worker’s home and Menendez brothers' now eligible for parole.  Deep Dive: The trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs is underway with Singer Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, a former girlfriend, taking the stand alleging she was forced to participate in ‘freak-offs’. The music mogul is facing charges including racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution could be sentenced to life in prison if convicted. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by criminal lawyer Jahan Kalantar to unpack what happened in court and what we know so far.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Western governments continue welcoming UN’s MH17 ruling, Kim Kardashian’s Paris robbery trial, new global study into OCD, Trump signs $142 billion defence deal with Saudi Arabia, and Eurovision has started this morning. Deep Dive: Imagine spending 15 years trying to have a baby and finally succeeding through an overseas surrogate - only to be up for criminal charges when you get home.   That’s what’s happening to a Brisbane couple, right now, who admitted to paying for international commercial surrogacy - which is illegal in Queensland, NSW and the ACT. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with LiSTNR investigative journalist Claudianna Blanco to unpack the secretive world of international surrogacy, how these laws are consistently skirted and what she discovered about the industry whilst undercover. Listen to Claudianna on Secrets We Keep: By Any Means.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef Wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023.   She’s pled not guilty to all charges.   In this special series of The Briefing, Holly Mitchell unpacks day 10 of the trial in under two minutes.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sussan Ley has made history as the first female to lead the Federal Liberal Party. So, can she help rebuild a broken party?  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Former Liberal MP Julia Banks, who says Sussan’s leadership is already under threat from the hard right of the party and they will never succeed if they don’t garner the female and younger voter.  Julia also shares a brutal insight into what really happens within the Liberal party room and the two words you're never allowed to mention.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: The new leader of the Liberal party will be unveiled today, Hamas release American-Israeli hostage, the trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs has begun in New York City, the supermarket wars are heating up, and we're getting a Wicked Live Musical Special. Deep Dive: Australia is one of the world leaders for sexual violence against kids and teens, according to a new study.  Nearly one in three girls experience it before the age of 18, and one in six boys, and experts say the issue is cultural.  In this episode of The Briefing, sexual crimes expert & host of Crime Insiders Detectives, Brent Sanders, joins Tara Cassidy to explain what’s behind the concerning rates. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who will lead the Liberal Party? Ahead of tomorrow’s crucial vote, we look at the top candidates and what the Liberals need to do to win back Australians  In this edition of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by political expert Kos Samaras who warns the current candidates to lead the Liberals won’t work unless the party undergoes a complete overhaul.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Albo to reveal ministerial lineup today, Pope calls for ‘no more war’ in first Sunday message, a tonne of cocaine seized off NSW's east coast, and Brisbane has secured the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for 2026! Deep Dive: Should doctors be required to help patients access abortion services, even if it conflicts with their personal beliefs?  That was the question at the centre of a major pro-life protest that brought parts of Sydney’s CBD to a standstill last week.  At the heart of the controversy is a new bill introduced by Greens MP and former GP Dr Amanda Cohn, aimed at expanding access to abortion across New South Wales.   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Dr Amanda Cohn and one of its leading critics, University of Adelaide law professor Dr Joanna Howe.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luisa Dunn has transformed her natural grey hair into a powerful statement and an Instagram following of over 1.4 million. The model and activist harnessed the power of her beauty and career in marketing to challenge the impossible beauty standards, faced by women in particular, and ageing. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Luisa explains how we are tricked into thinking ageing gives us an expiry date and why she uses her following as a platform for amplifying social issues. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO READ: The Nightmare Sequence by Omar Sakr TO READ: Funny Story by Emily Henry TO TRY: Elizavecca Cer-100 Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment TO TRY: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023. She’s pled not guilty to all charges. In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day nine of 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: The battle for the Liberal Party leadership begins and the 2025 Archibald prize goes to Julie Frager becoming the 13th women to win Deep Dive: Oscar Piastri is Australia’s only hope for becoming the Formula One world champion, after winning four of the past six races in the multi-billion-dollar sport. Formula One’s popularity has continued to rise with recording breaking crowds flocking to the Australian Grand Prix this year and Netflix’s Drive to Survive showing a new side of the drivers. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Greg Rust, host of LiSNTR’s Rusty's Garage, to unpack the 2025 Formula One season and whether Oscar Piastri could become the third Australia to take home the title.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: America's Robert Francis Prevost announced as new pope, More than 30 people have been arrested over a number of homophobic attacks linked to dating apps, Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has quit the Nationals party to instead join forces with the Libs, Putin and Xi Jinping slam AUKUS, and Matildas captain Sam Kerr has announced the birth of her son Jagger. Deep Dive: Australia’s music scene is looking like it’ll be getting a boost with big incentives for international acts — but there’s a growing threat putting our festivals at risk. Extreme Weather. As more gigs get cancelled, is the real danger something we just can't control? Helen Smith sits down with Berish Bilander, Green Music Australia CEO to discuss.Further listening from the headlines: Why we shouldn't torpedo AUKUS  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023. She’s pled not guilty to all charges. In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day eight of 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: Two men found guilty of murdering Indigenous schoolboy Cassius Turvey, Adam Bandt concedes defeat in Melbourne and Triple-murder Mushroom trial may conclude earlier than expected  Deep Dive: Donald Trump’s new tariffs on overseas movies could threaten Australia’s multibillion-dollar film industry and thousands of jobs. The shock move has some asking is this part of a bigger plan by the US President to control Hollywood and the creative industry. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by film expert Professor Mark Ryan to unpack what these latest tariffs mean for Australia and the future of blockbuster movies.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An innovative new project is helping Australians make and save cash, while bolstering the renewable energy sector and helping the environment.  The Australian Renewable Energy Agency or ‘ARENA funded Community Batteries’ project will see community batteries installed and connected to a virtual power plant.  In this sponsored episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Momentum Energy’s Leesa Blazley who’s leading its roll-out. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines:  Albo to reveal his new front bench as soon as next Tuesday, new warnings for Australians travelling to Pakistan and India, Daniel Morcombe's family new tell-all documentary, black smoke rises above the Sistine Chapel, and the ATO's wildest tax claims. Deep Dive: Are you fake rich? A third of Australians are feeling the pressure to ‘fake rich’ or look wealthier than they really are to maintain a picture-perfect lifestyle, new research has found.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks to Finder’s money expert Rebecca Pike to unpack where this pressure is coming from, what we’re overspending on and how to avoid falling into the “fake rich” trap.Further listening from the headlines: Nuclear war warning between India & Pakistan + Mushroom trial latest Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023. She’s pled not guilty to all charges. In this special series of The Briefing Helen Smith unpacks day seven of 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: Deadly Queensland housefire may have links to domestic violence, court hears in Erin Patterson's mushroom murder trial that she asked her husband's brother to help with her marriage and Peter Dutton makes first public appearance for first time since election loss  Deep Dive: The two nuclear armed nations of India and Pakistan have the world on edge after a dangerous escalation in their long running war. International leaders are calling for "maximum restraint" on both sides, after deadly military strikes and threats of retaliation. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Foreign Affairs expert Dr Keith Sutter who warns the threat of nuclear war is real and the major economic and trade implications for Australia.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: The fall out continues following Labor’s landslide election win, developments in the NSW double child murder case, Trump says “never say never” after new Canadian PM rules out sale to US, the NRL will get an 18th team from 2027,  and we are just one week away from Eurovision. Deep Dive: Run It Straight, the self-proclaimed “world’s fiercest collision sport,” has exploded on social media for its massive tackles, knockouts, and viral showdowns.  But as its popularity grows, so do concerns about the risks that come with it.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with neurophysiologist Dr Alan Pearce about the dangers behind the spectacle and why experts fear this sport could come with serious long-term consequences.   Further listening from the headlines: Who is the 'Milkshake Man' representing Australia at Eurovision? Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon headlines: Survivor of Mushroom murder trial speaks in court and huge swings in election results as Teals and Greens fight for seats.  Deep dive: This year’s Met Gala, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, is all about race, gender, class and sexuality. The high-end fashion event is often seen as ‘tone-deaf’ platforming privilege and elitism, but this year organizers are trying to re-set the message. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by LiSNTR’s entertainment reporter Justin Hill to unpack why the Met Gala is so much more than just sensational high-end fashion. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Gina Rinehart blames the Coalition’s election loss on 'Left Media', three major child deaths across the country, Israel to expand its offensive in Gaza, record seizure of vapes in Queensland, Met Gala is on today, and Skype is hanging up for good. Deep Dive: Our DNA is valuable, however many of us give it away for free, whether it be to figure out family history, or even to spot a life-threatening hereditary illness.  But the seemingly harmless practice of genetic testing has a dark side, with some companies abusing a legal loophole allowing them to access the information and use it to their advantage.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Public Health Genomics Expert Dr Jane Tiller about how life insurance companies are using their customers DNA to discriminate against them, and the growing calls to ban the practice.Further listening from the headlines: Who will be the new leader for the Liberal Party? How our gov let $7 billion go up in smoke Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon headlines: Anthony Albanese speaks with Donald Trump, 100% tariffs on movies made in Australia, new text messages shared in mushroom trial and voting for the next Pope starts on Wednesday Deep Dive: The Liberal party is in crisis mood suffering its worst election defeat over the weekend in its party’s history. They now need a new leader and a new way forward to try and win back voters. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by 7NEWS Political Editor Mark Riley to unpack what went so horribly wrong and the tough job ahead for its new leader.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Unpacking Albo’s historic win, Barnaby Joyce reveals prostate cancer diagnosis and police thwart bomb attack planned for Lady Gaga concert in Brazil. Deep Dive:  A highly contagious disease has gone from low global numbers to near endemic rates in some countries, despite medicine, technology and awareness of it at an all-time high.  In the US, there has been hundreds of cases of measles, some fatal, while in Australia, six out of eight states and territories have recorded cases, some their highest numbers in a decade.   In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by infectious disease expert, ANU virologist Professor David Tscharke, who is among a growing list of medicos and health authorities worried that vaccine indifference and misinformation is spreading faster than the illness itself.    Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anthony Albanese has become the first Prime Minister since John Howard to win back-to-back elections.   In this special election episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou and Helen Smith unpack how Labor managed to secure a second term in Government and what it all means for Medicare, cost-of-living relief and housing.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter Greste was sentenced to seven years in prison after being found guilty of falsifying news and damaging Egypt’s international image. The Australian foreign correspondent spent over two years in an Egyptian prison before the Australian government intervened. The Correspondent, is the new movie based on his ordeal fighting for press freedom. It comes at a time when attacks on journalists are reaching record highs and nowhere has the toll been deadlier than Gaza, with more Palestinian media workers being killed than in any other conflict. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf on World Press Freedom Day, Peter opens up about his healing process from solitary confinement and the escalating dangers facing journalists. Find out more about Peter's story and new movie here Weekend list with Helen Smith TO READ: You Are Here by David Nicholls TO WATCH: Real Housewives of New York season 12 TO TRY: Paddle boarding  TO WATCH: The Accountant 2  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In case you missed it, here's your one-stop guide to voting in this federal election. We’re breaking down the most common voting questions and busting a few myths, like what’s the difference between voting above or below the line, do preference deals still exist and what really happens to your vote after you cast it?   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou and Tara Cassidy break it all down for you. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon headlines: On election eve nearly 40% of Australians have already voted, chopper crash south west of Melbourne leaves three in serious condition and a psychic crocodile predicts election winner Deep Dive: It’s the murder trial that has gripped the world - a mother accused of murdering three relatives in a poisonous mushroom lunch. Erin Patterson’s trial started this week with explosive allegations, involving inheritances, mushroom dehydrators and text messages. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by 7NEWS reporter Estelle Greipink on the twists and turns unfolding inside the regional court room.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: It is the final official day of campaigning before the federal election, police investigating after Trumpet of Patriots volunteer attacked, the biggest moments from the Mushroom case this week, Trump ousts national security advisor over Signal group chat, and a call for calm from Nagi Maehashi.  Deep Dive:  Millions of Australians have already voted early - but if you’re heading to the polls today or tomorrow, this is your essential guide.  We’re breaking down the most common voting questions and busting a few myths, like what’s the difference between voting above or below the line, do preference deals still exist and what really happens to your vote after you cast it?   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou and Tara Cassidy break it all down for you.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.