The Briefing

Long gone are the glory days of television when we’d be handed 20+ episode seasons of our favourite shows, enough to keep us going and satiated for the year before a new run of episodes dropped. Now, good tv shows are sometimes rolling out just six episode seasons with gaps as long as two years between them. We know COVID and the 2023 writers’ strike had an impact - but what we’re really seeing is the ‘streamification’ of tv, with Netflix, Prime and Stan originals dominating the space with big names and big budgets. So, are the days of side quests, character development and filler eps gone? Legendary Aussie tv writer and creator Michael Lucas joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to discuss.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Dutton gains ‘significant lead’ over Albanese as preferred PM, Trump threatens Putin with tariffs and demands apology from 'nasty’ bishop, cost of a Melbourne to Sydney flight has jumped since competition collapse and no Aussies left in the singles at the Australian Open.  Deep Dive: How would you rate Labor on its environmental record? After sweeping to power in 2022 promising to be a point of difference to the Liberals, its failed to come through on a number of key pledges. As we head into the 2025 federal election the focus and priority of both the major political parties and the public has changed. Cost of living, housing, healthcare and the economy are ranking as the biggest issues according to the Ipsos Issues Monitor. So, can we expect much of either party when it comes to the environment this year? The Australian Conservation Foundation is hoping so, and in today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by the ACF’s National Biodiversity Policy Adviser, Brendan Sydes to find out more. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump says US astronauts will be planting an American flag on Mars within the next four years. But how about an Australian flag? In 2019 the then-PM Scott Morrison committed 150 million taxpayer dollars to get Australia a seat at the table for Project Artemis. Australia may not have anything of the scale of NASA, but we do have a national space agency. So could we see an Australian flag planted right next to the American one on the red planet in the next few years?  Dr Rebecca Allen is Co-Director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute at Swinburne University of Technology. She joins Bension Siebert to explain what is, and isn’t, possible.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Trump’s first day back in office wrapped, AFP says foreign influence may be behind antisemitic attacks, mental health wards shut down in NSW as hundreds of psychiatrists resign and Novak Djokovic is through to the AO semi-final. Deep Dive: In November 1978, more than 900 people died in what’s become one of the most notorious mass murders in history; the Jonestown Massacre.  Cult leader Jim Jones ordered his followers in the jungle of South America’s Guyana to drink punch-laced cyanide under the promise that they would be granted access to paradise. The compound in which Jones lived, preached and ultimately murdered hundreds of people has been reclaimed by the jungle and closed off since the late 70s. But a local travel agency has just started tours to the site, promising to honour the victims and their memories. But is it insensitive for tourists to visit a location with such a dark and tragic past? Or is it no different to the tourism we see at Auschwitz, the 9/11 site or Chernobyl? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with tour organiser from Wanderlust Adventures, Roselyn Sewcharran.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two of Australia’s richest people – Gina Rinehart and Anthony Pratt - were on the invites list to Donald Trump’s inauguration, as he was sworn in as US President for the second time today. It was the latest example of Trump collecting some billionaires from around the world to be part of the new president’s inner circle. So what does this mean for Australia? Could these relationships help us avoid tariffs Trump is threatening? Could it help our economy? Or will this just be a group of very rich people hoping to make each other richer? On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Guardian Australia journalist Ben Doherty about how close Trump has become with this country’s richest people, and what these relationships could mean for us.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Donald Trump returns to the White House, new polling shows Aussies are more optimistic in 2025 and Alex de Minaur is through to the AO quarter-finals! Deep dive: We have a lot to be thankful to Australia’s trade unions for; the five-day work week, annual leave entitlements and protections against unfair. Since the 1800s, the movement has been working hard to protect workers’ rights in this country and ensure those benefits are there for future generations once they get into the workforce. But as time has progressed, and the number of unions has grown, many have become fixated on achieving monster pay rises for specific groups, all while carrying out hugely disruptive industrial action. So, as Sydneysiders reel from days of mayhem on the rail network and questions are asked across the country about underworld criminal links to the CFMEU, we ask: is the Australian public being held hostage by unions and their demands? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with pro-unionist Wilhelmina Stracke to find out. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Novak Djokovic has made global headlines for opting out of a customary on-court interview following comments made by broadcaster Tony Jones, who chanted “Novak, he’s overrated... Novak’s a has-been. Novak, kick him out.”  Djokovic said Jones’ comments “made a mockery of Serbian fans” and that they were “insulting and offensive” with members of the Serbian community calling them racist.   In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Dr Nina Marković, board member of the Serbian council of Australia and political academic, to explain why the community has put in a complaint with the Australian Human Rights commission.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: First hostages freed in Israel-Gaza ceasefire deal Peter Dutton promises tax-free lunches for small businesses TikTok back online for American users after Trump promises to save it Djokovic skips post-match AO interview awaiting apology from Nine Deep Dive: Who decides what beer is served on tap at your local bar, pub or club?   It might not be obvious from all the brands and styles of beer on offer, but something like 80% of the beer we drink in Australia is owned by two Japanese megacompanies Lion and Asahi - both of which have spent millions of dollars buying up craft breweries in Australia.  And if you're a pub owner in need of renovations, or a new tap system, or you’re opening up a new venue, there's a good chance you'll be hearing from one of these companies, calling to make an offer that’s hard to refuse. Mazen Hajjar is CEO of Hawkers Beer, one of the largest independent producers in Victoria. He argues there’s a market duopoly at play, and it’s strangling what might otherwise be a thriving craft beer industry in Australia. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to explain why.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kris Fade was told he wasn’t made for radio - now he’s one of the biggest media personalities in Dubai. The Lebanese-Australian presenter has become a household name in the Middle East and is gaining fans around the world after appearing in drama-packed reality show Dubai Bling. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Kris reveals why he’s stepping back in season three, how fame has changed his life from his beginnings in Sydney, and what it takes to be on the show. Weekend List TO WATCH: Kunk on Earth on Netflix TO DO: Sauna and cold shower on the cheap TO DO: IKEA Breakfast Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gen Z has been dubbed the most 'unserious generation' - but is it true? Viral social media posts of young creators dancing in front of LA's fires and storm damage in Sydney have prompted the theory that the generation can't seem to take anything - CEO's being shot, natural disasters, a cost of living crisis - seriously. But what's behind the behaviour, and is it a fair generalisation? In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt, is joined by Gen Z representatives Chris Spyrou and Helen Smith to discuss if and why Gen Z is so unserious. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Israel stalls on signing Gaza ceasefire deal, Trump could save TikTok, the AO has a new villain and new study shows older siblings and girls are their parent's favourites. Helen Smith's deep dive on TikTok is available now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Deep Dive: When you think of hot days, you might think of iced drinks, flicking on the AC or rushing to your nearest beach. But, what about more crime? Science says the two are connected, with one Australian study suggesting by the end of the century – we'll experience over 1.5 million more crimes all thanks to a global rise in temperatures. Is there any truth to it and if so, what is it about the heat that encourages criminality? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Associate Professor Lindsie Arthur from the University of Melbourne’s School of Psychological Science to unpack it all.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After 15 months of violence and bloodshed, a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel has finally been reached. While there have been celebrations in the streets of both Gaza and Tel Aviv, the road to peace in the region will be long and is far from guaranteed. So, what happens now an initial deal has been struck and what hurdles stand in the way of a permanent end to the war? Professor Greg Barton, Chair in Global Islamic Politics at Deakin University joins Bension Siebert in today’s episode of The Briefing to discuss the ceasefire and what we can expect to happen next.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Israel and Hamas reach ceasefire deal, Bill Shorten to leave politics nine days early, Coles to ban the sale of knives after staff stabbed and Vukic and de Minaur through to round three of the AO, Kokkinakis and Tomljanović crash out. Deep Dive: Casinos are usually synonymous with high rollers and high stakes. But running a business of the size and scale of a casino comes with big risks and big expenses – despite having a possibly never-ending stream of clientele addicted to participating in what you’re selling.  With that in mind – how did we end up in a situation where our largest publicly traded casino operator is in serious financial trouble? The Star Entertainment Group – who operate casinos in Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast – could be broke within weeks.Charles Livingstone is a gambling expert and associate professor at Monash University – he joins Chris Spyrou on this episode of The Briefing to explain how that’s possible and what we need to know about what might happen over the coming months.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The end is nigh for TikTok, which is set to be banned in the US on the 19th of January.  After US congress passed the laws that would effectively ban the app last year – unless someone buys it from its China-based parent company, ByteDance – American’s reacting with dismay and humour – with some users already jumping ship to a new Chinese social media platform ‘Red Note’. But will it actually happen, or will Trump, Musk or Zuckerberg step in and stop it in the final hours? And if it goes ahead, what will using TikTok look like for the rest of us going forward? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Cam Wilson, writer of Australian daily tech newsletter The Sizzle, and Associate Editor of Crikey, to unpack how this ban would work and if it will change anything for Australian users. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Australian man captured while fighting in Ukraine reportedly killed, Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal ‘on the brink,' Donald Trump would have been convicted in election case if he didn’t win, Sam Kerr appears in court over alleged racial harassment charge, Princess Kate says she’s in remission, Aus Open update. Deep Dive: Are we ready to ‘build Australia’s future’, or are we looking to get the country ‘back on track’? That's the big question – and pitch – both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and leader of the Coalition Peter Dutton have launched this week as we enter the first stage of campaigning for our upcoming federal election. Both campaign slogans are short but come with layered meaning – about the state of the country, and what each major party thinks the average Australian is looking for when they go to cast their vote. But which one has more cut through – and is anyone even listening anymore? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by former Prime Minister of Australia Malcolm Turnbull to get his verdict on which campaign slogan sounds like a winner, and what they say about how the major parties sees us, and if we’re headed towards a minority government.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump spent the past week threatening to buy Greenland, annex Canada, re-name the Gulf of Mexico and take over the Panama Canal, potentially by force. Trump returns to the Oval Office as US President for the second time next week, and he talks a big game about expanding US territory - but are these empty threats, or could he actually do it? On this episode of the Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert discuss the possibilities. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Kyrgios hints at retirement, Federal MP calls for mandatory sentences for antisemitic vandals,  JD Vance walks back Trump’s promise to pardon Jan 6 rioters and Climate activists vandalise Charles Darwin’s grave. Deep Dive: How do you know if you’re really buying an organic product? Insiders have accused producers of falsely labelling products, prompting a new bill that was introduced by the Coalition last year - a big deal for an industry worth $2.3 billion in Australia. How can we really know the journey a product is taking before it arrives on the shelf at the supermarket? If the labelling isn’t accurate, should we just give up on buying organic all together? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Erin Turner, chief executive of the Consumer Policy Research Centre, to explain how the government can better regulate the sector and how it could change what’s on our shelves. In a statement, Peak industry body, Australian Organic Limited told The Briefing: "Australian Organic Limited welcomes the new bill as a way to ensure the word ‘organic’ can only be displayed on products sold by the thousands of certified organic operators who adhere to a strict set of principles and pass regular auditing checks to display a certification mark on their labels." Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At least 24 people have been killed and more than 10,000 properties destroyed in the Los Angeles wildfires.  Australia’s bushfire season puts the country on edge every year – especially across our regions - but could major cities here also be at risk?  In this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert speaks to Craig Lapsley, Victoria’s former Fire Services Commissioner, to break down what he's observed and what we can learn from LA’s deadly fires. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: LA fires still not contained, Penny Wong and Kevin Rudd invited to Trump’s Inauguration, Peter Dutton launches election campaign and Australian Open kicks off.  Deep Dive: Should artificial intelligence be deciding who gets to be born? A group of Australian researchers is asking that question, amid revelations the technology is being used in fertility clinics in Australia. How does it work, and should we be embracing it, or seriously concerned? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with one of the paper’s authors, Professor of Bioethics at Monash University Professor Catherine Mills, to discuss the the pros and cons of AI in IVF.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eddie Dilleen went from living on welfare with his mum to building a $90 million property portfolio, and he’s still in his 30s. He bought his first home when he was just 18 after from working at McDonalds and now he owns over 100 properties across Australia. So how did he do it? In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Eddie explains why he thinks young people aren’t priced out of the market and reveals the serious sacrifices he made along the way. Weekend List TO WATCH: Carry On on Netflix TO READ: This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger TO DO: Spring clean TO DO: Sharpen pencils Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We love a debate down under, and every summer for the last few years, Aussies have been going head-to-head over one topic: CoolCabanas. The humble beach tent has been spotted on sands across the country since 2015, but it’s now sparked a furious debate about Australian beach etiquette. So, while it’s all just a bit of fun, it begs the question: why did something that’s designed to protect us from the sun become so controversial? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with the CEO of CoolCabanas Mark Fraser and TikTokker Guncle Diaries to get their take on the debate and get their verdict on whether Aussie beaches should be cabana free. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: The latest on the LA fires, new data shows Aussies wages up, Birkenstock sues copycats, and Bluey Lego will hit shelves by the end of this year! Deep dive: The new year often comes with a range of emotions - you might be feeling relaxed and revitalised or you might be feeling a little anxious and overwhelmed at the year that lies ahead.   But how can we balance the bad with genuine optimism?   As part of The Briefing’s series on starting 2025 right, we’re exploring how to cultivate hope and resilience this year.  In this episode, Chris Spyrou chats with Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa, author, neuroscience expert, and host of the hit podcast Do You Fucking Mind, to talk through some practical strategies for finding joy and staying positive this year. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five people have been killed and more than 30,000 people are under evacuation orders as the Los Angeles wildfires continue to rage. More than 1000 buildings, including many on Sunset Boulevard, and the homes of celebrities, have been destroyed by the out-of-control fires. The wildfires in the middle of winter have shocked residents and prompted warnings amid the escalating climate crisis that there is now no such thing as a “fire season” in the state - the danger is all year round.  On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Australian ex-pat Jaxson McLennan from his home near a fire-front in Pasadena.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Rescued hiker in NSW survived a fortnight on berries and two muesli bars, wildfires have forced thousands to flee in Los Angeles, the pilot in Rottnest Island plane crash identified, and Brisbane (somehow) ranks worst city in Australia for traffic. Deep Dive: As artificial intelligence gets exponentially better at just about everything, it’s making people in all kinds of professions – from teachers to doctors, to lawyers, to retail workers – a little bit nervous. But AI is also making a lot of people very excited, with new, mind-bending capabilities coming online every week. What tools should you be using in 2025 to keep ahead of the curve and make your life a little easier? As part of The Briefing’s series on how to start your 2025 right, Bension Siebert is joined by Toby Walsh, professor of Artificial Intelligence at UNSW, to guide you through what’s out there, what you should be using, and where to start with AI in the new year.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Facebook, and its parent company Meta, is saying goodbye to fact-checkers. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in an announcement posted to social media that fact checkers had become “too politically biased”, and have "destroyed more trust than they've created, especially in the US". Meta will also change its algorithms to recommend more political content on its platforms.  Does the move have anything to do with Trump’s threats to jail Zuckerberg for life for alleged US election interference? And what is this going to mean for our Facebook and Instagram feeds in 2025? Stephen Scheeler knows Mark Zuckerberg and is a former CEO of Facebook in Australia. What does he think of the tech super leader bending the knee to a Donald Trump administration? He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the announcement, and what happens next.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Meta scraps independent fact-checkers, Aussie house prices dip, three missing after Rottnest Island plane crash and Donald Trump Junior arrives in Greenland amidst talk his dad wants to buy the country. Deep Dive: A new year often brings reflection, and for many, that means rethinking their job. Does it make you happy? Pay enough? Offer the growth you’re looking for? But changing careers isn’t an easy undertaking, especially when navigating new industries, re-training, the place of AI and figuring out how to put your best foot forward in an increasingly competitive market. To kick off 2025, The Briefing is giving you everything you need to start your year on the first foot. In this episode, Chris Spyrou is joined by career consultant and recruiter Tammie Ballis from Realistic Careers, who shares expert insights to help you successfully change careers in 2025. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent scroll of your social media feed might have made you feel like you were back in 2020. Footage of overwhelmed hospital emergency rooms in China have been doing the rounds online, with claims that a new and mysterious virus is sweeping the country and making people unwell. So, can we trust these reports? What is actually causing people to get sick in China right now? And are we at risk of it in Australia?   On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Professor Jill Carr from Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute to breaks down HMPV, it’s severity and whether we’re at risk here in Australia.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Canada’s PM Justin Trudeau announces resignation, man faces court in Fiji over alleged rape of Virgin Airlines crew member, Donald Trump’s election win to be certified by Kamala Harris today, and the Aussies have been snubbed at the Golden Globes. Deep Dive: For a lot of us, consuming news in 2024 could have been best described by one word – fatigue.  Exhaustion from the 24-hour news cycle, the growing number of voices telling us what to think about a story and increasing lack of transparency in news sources might have led you to switch off from news as the year came to an end. But news doesn't stop – and in the year of a federal election in Australia, a Trump 2.0 presidency, and everything else that might happen – how should you be consuming your news? This week The Briefing is bringing you everything you need to get cracking in 2025. In this episode of the Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Crikey investigative journalist Daany Saeed and Konrad Benjamin AKA Punters Politics to break down how you can better consume news in 2025.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bop House is a multimillion-dollar mansion full of female OnlyFans creators living together and making viral online content. They claim to have made US$10 million just last month.  Content creator houses full of influencers are nothing new - we’ve had the Hype House on TikTok and Team 10 on YouTube - but The Bop House has the internet divided.   In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by adult content creator and industry advocate Nova Hawthorne to explain what a 'bop' is, and why so many people are hating on the OF creators who live there.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Anthony Albanese kicks off election year with multi-state blitz, top pay packets of Aussie uni execs revealed, six-day farewell for Jimmy Carter starts with all five living US presidents to attend, and a huge tuna sells for millions in Tokyo.Deep Dive: We're fresh into a new year, and you might be feeling like it's time to start building some more long-term wealth. But where do you start, and how much money do you need to get things going?  From making the most out of your superannuation to buying shares and knowing when to get into the property market, here’s our straightforward guide to investing this year.    To kick off The Briefing’s week-long series on how to start your 2025 right – we’re bringing you Bension Siebert’s chat with Chief Investment Officer at Motley Fool Australia, Scott Phillips.    Note: This episode contains general information. Always seek personalised advice from a financial advisor before investing.Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this best of episode of the Weekend Briefing Antoinette Lattouf is joined by Dr Karl.  Dr Karl is Australia’s favourite science communicator, with a passion for colourful shirts with the energy of an exclamation mark! He’s a former taxi driver, was a serial university student – studying for 16 years – and is now a much-loved medical personality on radio and TV who has just written a memoir – The Periodic Tale. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Dr Karl unpacks his family’s traumatic journey and Holocaust survival to how he thinks OnlyFans could help climate change. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: FBI confirms lone actor in the New Orleans New Year’s attack and rules out Vegas connection, bushfires east of Perth claims houses, search continues for possible shark attack victim in SA, and the Pink Test starts in Sydney this morning. Best of Deep Dive: With less than ten days to go until the Australian Open, tennis fever is starting to sweep the nation. As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we're revisiting Bension Siebert’s conversation with now 12-year-old wheelchair tennis champion, Sonny Rennison. In 2024, Sonny made history as Australia’s first wheelchair ballkid. At the time, we spoke with him and one of Australia’s top wheelchair tennis stars, Heath Davidson, about the history-making achievement and the importance of improving accessibility for athletes with disabilities. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Chaos in New Orleans as a truck strikes New Year’s revellers leaving 10 dead, three Virgin Australia staff stuck in their hotel after an incident at Nadi airport, and the LNP claims 10,000 businesses will collapse before the next parliamentary sitting. Best of Deep Dive: A network of volunteer doctors in Australia are stepping up to provide free medical care for Palestinians who have fled Gaza. From performing surgeries on patients with amputated limbs to treating chronic illness, they are filling the gaps where our government has fallen short, largely due to the visas provided for those fleeing not allowing access to healthcare. One of these doctors is Dr Mohamed Amr. He co-founded the Palestinian Australian New Zealand Medical Association (PANZMA). As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we revisit Antoinette Lattouf’s exclusive conversation with Dr Amr from November last year. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: All the latest from New Years Eve celebrations across the country.  Best of Deep Dive: Run clubs are still trending – they have been called the new dating app, the millennial quarter life crisis, and the cozzie livs gym membership. So if you’ve found yourself lacing up or have signed up for the next fun run in your city - what’s the best way to start running and do it safely? In this episode of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re listening back to Helen Smith’s chat with World Champion sprinter Katie Williams, who gives her advice on how to hit your running goals without causing an injury. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Sydney set to have more than a million people watching NYE fireworks, heavy rain in Queensland has state emergency services on edge, and the Aussies take seven wickets in the final session to beat India in the fourth test. Best of Deep Dive: Celebrity endorsements seem to be losing their potency when it comes to elections. Despite support from Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga, presidential hopeful Kamala Harris could not find the votes to give her the top job in the recent US election. Does that reflect a gap in the election market about to be filled by social media and influencers? Konrad Benjamin doesn't love the term influencer – but he’s the host and creator behind Punters Politics, a YouTube channel that aims to help “navigate the divisive world of Australian politics on a quest to make it simple for the every day punter”. In this episode of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re listening back to Bension Siebert’s chat with Konrad where they unpack the power of the influencer, and whether they can sway the vote when Australia heads to the polls in 2025. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Jeju Air CEO accepts blame for crash killing 179, Labor's grip on power is looking shaky, and India will need to pull off the highest run chase in more than a century to win the 4th test today. Best of Deep Dive: Over the next decade in Australia, $5 trillion is expected to move down the generations, with around $2.3 trillion to be given to the children of Boomers, $1 trillion to their grandkids, and $1.7 trillion to charities. The bank of mum and dad is somewhere between the 5th and 9th biggest lender according to the Productivity Commission. In this episode of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re listening back to Sacha Barbour Gatt’s chat with Compare the Market’s Economic Director David Koch to find out what impact this will have on the economy. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this best of episode of the Weekend Briefing Antoinette Lattouf is joined by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison.  Scott Morrison is the 30th Prime Minister of Australia, lover of chicken curries and author of his new book - Plans For Your Good: A Prime Minister's Testimony of God's Faithfulness Morrison has had his fair share of controversies over the years - Hawaii, his response to COVID and his many ministries. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Morrison opens up about his time as PM, repenting his sins and his impact on Australians. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Two Sydney to Hobart yacht sailors killed, Victorian bushfire update, total fire ban declared in Sydney, and Virat Kohli avoids suspension. Best of Deep Dive: Would you take MDMA to help your mental health? As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting our exclusive chat with *Kate, a patient who has undertaken MDMA-assisted therapy to treat her post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). So what actually happens to you when you take what is usually known as a party drug during a therapy session? This chat was part of our two-part series on MDMA-assisted therapy in October, 2024. Part 1: An Australian clinic is ‘transforming’ lives with MDMA-assisted therapy Part 2: How MDMA freed Kate from PTSD Lifeline 13 11 14 *Not a real name. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are many ways in Australia to have children if you can’t physically procreate. You can foster or look into adoption - or you can find a surrogate.     In Australia, it’s illegal to pay someone to carry a child for you – but nothing is stopping you from paying someone overseas. However, surrogacy isn't without contention or is an easy road.     Luke and Scott O’Halloran, otherwise known as Luke and Sassy Scott, are brothers with a massive public profile, with their podcast and TikTok presence amassing a plethora of fans here and overseas.   Last year Scott and his partner Marcus decided to become parents via international surrogacy.   As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting Bension Siebert’s chat with the comedy-duo where we found out just how complex international surrogacy in Australia is. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might be celebrating Brat Summer, or singing along to the light-sounding-but-heavy-meaning words of Chappell Roan – or maybe you’re just sipping that Espresso with Sabrina Carpenter.  Either way, the charts don’t lie - a new intense and complex female-made and focused pop sound is having a renaissance.   So what’s the key ingredient for being a female pop star in 2024 and why is it working for some but not for others?   As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting Sacha Barbour Gatt’s chat with Nic Kelly, host of The Hot Hits on the Hit Network and LiSTNR to unpack it all.  Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Christmas is on hold for Victorian firefighters ready to protect the state, Joe Biden pardons death row prisoners, NRMA issues Christmas road safety warning, and Australia's most famous crocodile has passed away at 90 years old. Best of Deep Dive: Is it possible that there’s a serial killer wreaking havoc along the NSW coast? That’s the question raised by Jeremy Buckingham, Legalise Cannabis Party MP and member of NSW legislative council earlier in the year. In an impassioned address to parliament at the end of October, the MP made the case for the state to take a serious look at 67 missing or murdered women along the NSW north coast between 1977 and 2009. As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting Sacha Barbour Gatt’s chat with Jeremy earlier in the year where he unpacked his claims and laid out why he chose to raise the issue before Parliament. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Christmas tree light warnings, Victorian bushfire update, airfare charter of rights proposed, and Aussie researchers create injection to reverse blindness. Deep dive best of: Amid a cost of living crisis, who can resist the invitation to “shop like a billionaire” at bargain-basement prices? Online juggernaut Temu is Australia’s most popular free app, offering a vast vortex of low-cost merchandise from fashion and homeware to toys and electronics. But amid the thrilling rush of retail therapy lie some serious questions: Where does this stuff come from and what are conditions like for those at the bottom of the supply chain? As part of The Briefing’s Best of Summer Series, we’re revisiting Sacha Barbour Gatt’s chat with senior labour rights campaigner at Oxfam, Sarah Rogan to find out more. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard Baker is one of Australia’s best investigative journalists, who has spent decades chasing stories. The Walkley award winning journo is the host of LiSTNR's Secrets We Keep: Pray Harder, which explores a secretive religious group in Geelong where every aspect of members’ lives are tightly controlled by their hardline pastor. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Richard explains why he doesn't have any social media, what life is like as an investigative journalist, and how dangerous it is for whistle blowers in Australia. Weekend List TO TRY: Vouchers with your private health insurance TO WATCH: Hair Theory by Emma Chamberlain on YouTube TO READ: BBC article 'Being a starlet was difficult': How Shirley Temple saved a Hollywood studio from bankruptcy TO WATCH: Bad Sisters on Netflix Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve been captivated by the US election, horrified at wars overseas and have marvelled at the Olympics. There’s no doubt 2024 has been another massive year in news. In today’s deep dive, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert talk through the biggest stories of the year and what they’ve meant to us, before looking ahead to what we can expect in 2025. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Man in French mass rape case that shocked the world handed 20-year conviction, Albanese government condemned for approving four coalmine expansions, first-ever estimates of LGBTI+ Aussies released and Raygun The Musical will be going ahead!Deep Dive: 'The Briefing recaps 2024' in your feeds right now as a separate episode. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Penny Wong announces Australian embassy will re-open in Ukraine, Australian crews en route to Vanuatu, NSW Government approves pill testing trial and NASA's stranded astronauts to remain on the ISS until March. Deep Dive: Have you cut meat out of your diet for ethical reasons, only to eventually return to that late-night cheeseburger or pub chicken parma? There are plenty of good reasons for going vegan or vegetarian: the animals, the environment, the climate crisis, health, the cost of a steak – the list goes on. But one in ten Australians is eating more meat this year, or planning to, than in previous years. So why are some Australians turning back to meat and dairy? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks to several former vegans and vegetarians on why they chose to go back to meat, as well as experts on how to get the nutrients you need for health, fitness and muscle growth goals if you plan to go vegan in 2025.  Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Australia stands ready to help Vanuatu after powerful earthquake, Qantas and Meta to pay massive fines, reactions to Victoria’s new protest laws and Bluey is heading to the big screen. Deep Dive: As 2025 looms, are we watching major Western governments across the world collapse? A possible resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. A vote of no confidence for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. French government almost-shutdown narrowly avoided. What the hell is going on, what are the ramifications be for global stability into the new year, and does this say anything about what is coming our way in Australia and our own upcoming federal election? In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks to Dr. Scott Burchill, honorary fellow at Deakin University, to get his take on what’s causing the sudden wave of change.  Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Bashar al-Assad releases first statement since fleeing Syria, new poll shows Albanese’s disapproval at 50%, Australian teenager and mother hospitalised in Fiji return home and Prince Andrew disinvited from royal Christmas as spy saga deepens Deep Dive: NRL club Melbourne Storm are scaling back Welcome to Country ceremonies and focusing on “action” rather than “words” to improve the lives of First Nations people.  Is it the right call for the club to make? Why do we bother to acknowledge country at all – and does doing it distract us from real action institutions can take to fix inequalities between First Nations and non-Indigenous people in this country?   Ian Hamm is a Yorta Yorta man and Chair of the First Nations Foundation. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack if he thinks Melbourne Storm has made the right call, and what impact this might have on other sporting codes and businesses and their relationship to First Nations Australians going forward.   Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Remaining Bali Nine return home, four Australians hospitalised after suspected alcohol poisoning in Fiji, heat wave warnings issued across Australia and Adelaide Zoo welcomes its newest giant pandas.Panda diplomacy deep dive: https://play.listnr.com/podcast/the-briefing/episode/panda-propaganda-why-china-is-sending-us-diplomacy? Today's Deep Dive: For the first time in a long time, Saturday Night Live is having a bit of a cultural moment. Currently in its 50th season the live sketch comedy show, which over the years has been created by comedy superstars like Will Ferrel, Eddie Murphy, Jimmy Fallon, and Tina Fay, has hit a milestone many dream of. But it hasn't all been roses – in the last decade the show has fought off constant criticism about relevancy, lacklustre casting and jokes, and questions of possible cancellation. What's brought it back to leading the cultural comedy way? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Jon Schneider, the creator and host of podcast Saturday Night Network to explain why SNL is more relevant than ever.   Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Narelda Jacobs is a trailblazer. She’s a Whadjuk Noongar woman, journalist and presenter who’s changing the face of Australian media. Over the past two decades Narelda has worked as a trusted news presenter and is a powerful advocate for First Nations rights, LGBTQIA+ inclusion and social justice. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Narelda opens up about some recent experiences that are both personal and painful tied to the colour of her skin and reveals a surprise of her own. Weekend List TO FOLLOW: Hassan Hassan @hxhassan and Kevork Almassian @KevorkAlmassian on X TO EAT: Christmas brunch ideas tray bakes, savoury croissant and french toast TO BUY: Personalised toiletry bags for Christmas TO WATCH: Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.