The Briefing

Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) is blowing up in Australia. The fantasy table-top roleplay game is nothing new – it was first published in in 1974 – but Google Search trends in Australia show searches for DnD have been steadily climbing since about 2016. What’s behind the hype? Should you be picking up DnD in 2025? And if you aren’t keen on the kind of effort involved in playing it, what board games should we instead try playing over the holidays?  Justin Halliday is Game Designer for Hero Forge Games. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to explain the growing hype.   Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Coalition to unveil cost of bold nuclear plan, ‘Adult time’ youth justice laws pass Queensland parliament and Donald Trump named Time’s Person of the Year ... again Deep Dive: It has been ten years since the Lindt Cafe siege, which took place on December 15, 2014. Man Haron Monis took 18 hostages and held them for 16 hours in Sydney’s Martin Place. The 16-hour siege ended in the deaths of two hostages – Tori Johnson and Katrina Dawson – as well as the gunman himself. Multiple others involved were injured by gunfire during the raid. In this episode of The Briefing, we interview our very own Antoinette Lattouf, who was a television reporter at the time, and covered the harrowing developments from the scene that day. She joins Helen Smith to recount how the day unfolded, her thoughts on how our perception of terrorism has evolved over the past decade, and why the events of that day will never leave her.  Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apple Intelligence has officially come to Australia. Apple’s AI was first announced back in June, and as of today can be used by hundreds of thousands of iPhone-owning Aussies. But what can it do, and how will it change us? Will it encourage Android loyalists to make the jump, and is it really a gamechanger?   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by tech expert and editor of EFTM magazine, Trevor Long to unpack if it's worth the hype. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Women launch class action against BHP and Rio Tinto over alleged decades of sexual harassment, Anthony Albanese supports exclusion zones near houses of worship, Saudi Arabia chosen to host FIFA world cup, and HECS balances will be slashed from today. Deep Dive: A viral on the street interview turned Hailey Welch from a normal girl to an internet celebrity overnight. Becoming Hawk Tuah Girl, she has since used her sudden fame and millions of followers to pivot into a podcast, brand deals and merch line. Last week, she started a new venture – creating her own cryptocurrency called $HAWK. The digital coin hit a $490 million market cap shortly after it was launched, but lost 95% of its value within hours.  Does this massive depreciation mean it was a scam? And who is to blame for those who lost out when buying into the currency? And how can any of this be legal?  In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Daniel Gozman, Associate Professor at the University of Sydney, to explain the complex world of crypto and pump and dump schemes. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are public figures fair game when it comes to parody and satire? Personally, your answer might shift depending on who that public figure is, while legally, the answers are a little more clean cut. It’s a question being asked following reports the legal team of Rachael Gunn, Australian academic and competitive breakdancer also known as Raygun, had a parody musical on her journey to the 2024 Paris Olympics cancelled ahead of its trial show. Raygun: The Musical, a creation of Aussie comedian Steph Broadbridge, was set to debut in Sydney on Saturday. However, after the venue received a cease-and-desist notice from the break dancer’s legal team – that show was canned. Joining Chris Spyrou on this episode of The Briefing, solicitor Jahan Kalantar explains it all. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The fire attack against a Jewish synagogue in Melbourne has intensified a battle between our politicians over the meaning of anti-Semitism, and who is responsible for encouraging it in Australia.  Meanwhile, many people are struggling to know how to talk about anti-Semitism, Israel or Gaza without fear of saying the wrong thing.  In part two of The Briefing’s two-part special episode on anti-Semitism in Australia, Bension Siebert speaks with writer and co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, Alex Ryvchin.  Listen to part one here: https://play.listnr.com/podcast/the-briefing/episode/the-politics-of-a-jewish-synagogue-fire-attack-par?Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: PM’s pitch to families ahead of election announcement, Syria’s new PM meets old government officials to aid transition, Telstra fined $3 million for 000 network outage, and two new sounds have been added to Australia’s sound archive. Deep Dive: The fire attack against a Jewish synagogue in Melbourne has intensified a battle between our politicians over the meaning of anti-Semitism and who is responsible for encouraging it in Australia.  Meanwhile, many people are struggling to know how to talk about anti-Semitism, Israel or Gaza without fear of saying the wrong thing.  In part one of The Briefing’s two-part special episode on anti-Semitism in Australia, Bension Siebert speaks with human rights lawyer and Executive Officer at the Jewish Council of Australia, Sarah Schwartz.  Listen to part two here:  https://play.listnr.com/podcast/the-briefing/episode/the-politics-of-a-jewish-synagogue-fire-attack-p-1? Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A group of sexy Queensland concreters have created a the "Sexy Concreters" calendar, featuring 12 Gold Coast tradies posing shirtless in wheelbarrows, pouring iced coffee over themselves and eating meat pies. The calendar was created to raise money and awareness for men’s mental health, with the first print of the calendar selling out in just two hours. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Jesse Stenroos, Mr April and director of the concreting business Conseq Group, and Anthony Savage, the creator behind the project. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Antisemitism taskforce announced as travel warning issued for Jews heading to Australia, Australia fires new Tomahawk missiles for the first time, person of interest interviewed in CEO shooting case and Starbucks Australia posts $5.8 million loss. Deep Dive: A major health insurance company CEO was shot dead on the street in New York City last week, and many are celebrating. A Facebook post by UnitedHealthcare to remember its assassinated CEO, 50-year-old Brian Thompson, received tens of thousands of laugh reacts over the weekend. In the US and in Australia, many cultural commentators have echoed this sense of glee. So who was Brian Thompson, why are so many people happy he’s dead, and what does it say about who we are in the current cultural moment? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert unpacks the reaction with US-born activist and public speaker Azure Antoinette. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rebel forces in Syria captured the capital over the weekend in a move that saw the nation’s president, Bashar al-Assad, flee the country. It comes after a 13-year civil war and over five decades of his family’s brutal autocratic rule. The news has been widely welcomed by those living in the country, who are celebrating liberation – a similar sentiment echoed on the streets back here in Australia. But how did we get here and who steps in now that a dictator has been toppled? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Chair in Global Islamic Politics at Deakin University, Professor Greg Barton to discuss. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Syrian rebels bring down Assad regime, new poll spells more bad news for Albo and Donald Trump attends the reopening of Notre Dame. Deep dive: The price of a cup of coffee has always been debated, and now, global coffee prices have reached their highest in over 50 years. It boils down to many factors across the industry, including bad weather in Brazil and Vietnam where most of the world's coffee comes from and international trade. So how will this impact the price of our daily cup of coffee going into 2025? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Kirk Pearson, the owner of Project Zero Coffee and the host of It’s Just Coffee the podcast, to explain how it will all impact us here in Australia. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Noni Hazlehurst has been a beloved fixture in Australian homes for decades, from Play School to Better Homes and Gardens. In her new memoir Dropping the Mask Noni opens up about her journey to self-discovery and concealing her true self to fit the roles others expected of her. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Noni shares her MeToo moment for the first time when a senior entertainment executive locked her in a room, changing her perspective forever. You can grab a copy of Dropping the Mask from any good book store or online Weekend List TO EAT: Mango and avocado salsa TO WATCH: Nugget Is Dead: A Christmas Story on Stan TO WATCH: Saturday Night Live on Binge TO WATCH: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Settling in to watch a Christmas movie is one of the hallmarks of the festive season for a lot of us, with titles like Elf, Die Hard and Love Actually usually at the top of the most-streamed list. But does it feel like it’s been a while since we’ve seen a great Christmas movie? Time Out’s list of the ten best ever doesn’t feature a single title from after 2005, which has us asking – have we seen the last of the great Christmas movies? Ash London, radio queen and passionate Chrissy movie advocate joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to discuss. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: The Chaos in France, new poll shows Peter Dutton on track for major election win, former defence secretary to lead urgent AUKUS review, Melbourne billionaire Adrian Portelli charged over unlawful lottery and you tell us your favourite Christmas movies! Deep dive: Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has become a record-breaking phenomenon – taking on 54 cities across 21 countries over a gruelling 21 months. Swift, considered one of the greatest artists of all time, has been on tour since March 2023, breaking multiple records including the highest-grossing tour ever and the first musician to surpass a billion US dollars in revenue. As the Eras tour wraps up for good in Vancouver this weekend, The Briefing has teamed up with Angel Zhong at RMIT to exclusively unpack every stat and figure from what will inevitably go down in history as one of the biggest music events of our generation. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who should decide what’s acceptable to wear to the office? In the last couple of years, we’ve seen a huge shift in office workwear with experts saying it’s partly because of the pandemic, working from home, social media trends and because of younger generations entering the workplace. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Lauren Sams, fashion editor at the Australian Finical Review, and Employment Lawyer Roxanne Hart to find out who makes the rules around what’s corporate chic and what’s going to send you straight to HR. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Charges laid over Easey Street murders, Aussie primary school students score best ever result in global test, NSW Premier to be referred to corruption watchdog, South Korean lawmakers move to impeach President and the Matildas win 3-1 against Taiwan. Deep Dive: You might have heard the phrase “deep state” in the news about US President-elect Donald Trump recently. He’s promised to dismantle it. But what is the “deep state” and do we have one in Australia? The Briefing’s Bension Siebert speaks with ANU national security expert David Andrews about the shadowy world of the deep state conspiracy theory and what stops Australia’s government from being undermined from the inside. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A man charged over one of Victoria’s longest cold cases, the 1977 Easey Street murders, touched down in Melbourne overnight, after a marathon extradition from Rome. He was arrested in Italy back in September in connection to the alleged murder of 28-year-old Suzzane Armstrong and 27-year-old Susan Bartlett in their Collingwood share house almost 50 years ago. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by host of the Life and Crimes podcast and author of Rule on Crime, Andrew Rule. Andrew's been closely following the case since the 70s. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Easey Street murder suspect lands in Melbourne after extradition, South Korean Parliament rejects president’s martial law declaration, concerns over ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, Commonwealth Bank urged to rethink $3 cash withdrawal fee, and the most visited Wikipedia pages for 2024 have been revealed. Deep dive: A five-year legal battle is playing out between the NT government and residents of Laramba, an Aboriginal community 205km north-west of Alice Springs, over clean drinking water. The community's drinking water was found to have contained uranium at levels three times the maximum safe level set out in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Daniel Kelly, a solicitor at Australian Lawyers for Remote Aboriginal Rights, to unpack the latest developments. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you think of hard jobs, does influencing or content creation top the list? After a video from the 2024 TikTok Awards went viral, that’s exactly the conversation happening online right now. Content creators were asked if their work is “hard,” with some answers sparking debate and backlash. One of those influencers seemingly in hot water is Veronica B. The TikTokker, who has over half a million followers on the app, joins Chris Spyrou in this episode of The Briefing to unpack whether she believes being an influencer is tough, what goes on behind the scenes, and how she’s handling the wave of hate. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: The fallout from Hunter Biden’s pardon, biggest cocaine bust in Australian history sees 13 charged and Australia just sweltered through its hottest spring ever. Deep dive: 2024 has become the deadliest year for aid workers with harrowing risks of humanitarian work laid bare over the weekend. Aid workers from Save the Children and World Central Kitchen were killed in an Israeli Defence Forces airstrike in Gaza, prompting World Central Kitchen to halt operations after it destroyed one of its vehicles and killed three staff members. With Israel’s new legislation banning the operation of the UN’s Palestinian refugee agency in Israel and occupied territories by January 28, what happens to arguably the most oppressed and starving people in the world if aid workers can no longer help? Australia-born Roger Hearn is the UNRWA's Director of Relief and Social Services, and he joins Antoinette Lattouf in this episode of The Briefing. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been eight years since Pokémon Go took the world by storm. But was the global phenomenon just a big data mining scam? By the end of its launch year in 2016, over 200 million people had downloaded the game and today 90 million users are still trying to catch em’ all. But it's come to light that the game’s developers, Niantic, have been using its player’s data to train “the next frontier of AI”. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou chats with freelance games journalist Harry Kalogirou to find out how this happened, whether users are justified in feeling scammed and what this means for the future of AI. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: What’s going on Syria right now, Trump threatens 100% tariffs on China and Russia, house prices in Sydney and Melbourne tumble and a Melbourne woman has had a deadly tiger snake slither up her leg while driving. Deep dive: Young Australians pay more tax than older Australians on the same income. On this episode of The Briefing, we explain how the tax burden came to fall so heavily on younger people and why, for the first time, we might be in a position to do something about it. Bension Siebert speaks to Independent Wentworth MP Allegra Spender who has spent more than a year creating a green paper, working with experts, business groups, academics, and trade unions to explain the problem and what we could do to solve it. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia Grace AKA Gspot knows a lot about sex. She’s a pleasure activist, the co-founder of sexual wellness company Normal and an expert in somatic sexology, embodied counselling and trauma informed approaches. The Modern Guide to Sex is Georgia’s latest book where she breaks down taboos, myths and the sexual shame society holds. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Georgia explains the importance of pleasure and gives her take on Bonnie Blue. Weekend List TO EAT: Avo on toast roast with labneh and za'atar TO READ: I Am Pilgrim by former journalist and screenwriter Terry Hayes TO TRY: We listen and we don't judge trend on TikTok TO WATCH: Fisk season 3 on ABC iView Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether you’re a fan or not, you can’t deny the absolute juggernaut that has been the Wicked movie press tour. After kicking off in Australia earlier this month, the cast of the Broadway adaptation have been going viral while chatting with the media and public about the film. Headlined by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the press tour has copped some flak for being cringey and over the top, amid viral videos of reporters crying in interviews to ridiculous platitudes about “holding space” for the lyrics of the movie’s title track Defying Gravity. On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Justin Hill, host of LiSTNR’s The Streaming Service, to break down the insanity of the Wicked press tour and explain why it’s got people so riled up. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alicia Schiller is a convicted murderer – and the Victorian Government has given her permission to start IVF treatment during her sentence. She stabbed her roommate to death in 2014 and she’s currently serving a 16-year-sentence in a maximum-security prison in Victoria. The decision has provoked outrage from the family of her victim, from politicians and members of the public. If she gets pregnant, it’s being reported that she plans to raise the child with her in prison for the first five years, then hand the child over to her parents while she serves what's left of her sentence. In part two of this special two-part episode of The Briefing, Victorian Liberal MP Brad Battin argues the Victorian Government should stop Schiller having a child. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Australia approves world first social media ban for kids, Israel fires on southern Lebanon after ceasefire deal, top trends for 2025 revealed. Deep Dive: Alicia Schiller is a convicted murderer – and the Victorian Government has given her permission to start IVF treatment during her sentence. She stabbed her roommate to death in 2014 and she’s currently serving a 16-year sentence in a maximum-security prison in Victoria. The decision has provoked outrage from the family of her victim, from politicians and members of the public. If she gets pregnant, it’s being reported that she plans to raise the child with her in prison for the first five years, then hand the child over to her parents while she serves what's left of her sentence. In part one of this special two-part episode of The Briefing, Australian barrister and criminal justice spokesman with the Australian Lawyers Alliance Greg Barnes joins Bension Siebert to argue why Schiller has every right to access IVF. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Australia, community water fluoridation programs have been underway since the 1950s. It’s a practice endorsed by the World Health Organisation as an effective and safe way of reducing tooth decay. But earlier this year Donald Trump's pick for Secretary of Health, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., promised remove fluoride from water supplies, a move that Trump has endorsed. RFK Jr, often labeled a vaccine skeptic and conspiracy theorist, claims fluoride is linked to conditions like arthritis, cancer, and lowered IQ. It’s a case his supporters say is strengthened by a recent US-government report which found a tentative link between high fluoride levels and reduced neurodevelopment in children. So, is it really safe and is it time we give it a rethink? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Dr Brad McKay, GP and author of ‘Fake Medicine: Exposing the wellness crazes, cons and quacks costing us our health’ to unpack it all. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: 37 bills listed as “priority” on final scheduled sitting day, Lidia Thorpe suspended from the Senate, US to start work immediately on new Gaza ceasefire proposal and the TikTok Awards 2024 were held in Sydney overnight. Deep Dive: Next year’s election will be the first in Australia’s history where there’ll be more Millennials and Gen Z than boomers at the ballot box. Who will be influencing their vote? Celebrity endorsements seem to be losing their potency – 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? And is that a good or bad thing? 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, he joins Bension Siebert to unpack the power of the influencer, and how much of a say he thinks they will have on the 2025 vote here in Aus. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s been a major development this week for the appeal hopes of one of the country’s most notorious criminals. Tony Mokbel, who became a household name during Melbourne’s gangland wars in the early noughties, could soon walk free, after a judge ruled his lawyer had perverted the course of justice by feeding information to the police in the lead up to his arrest. So how likely is it that his case, and a number of others, will be overturned? Veteran crime journalist Adam Shand joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to explain. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Eight Laos hostel staff detained over suspected methanol deaths, Benjamin Netanyahu urges Israeli ministers to approve Hezbollah ceasefire deal, an update on the bills Labor is trying to pass this week and Drake takes feud with Kendrick Lamar to court. Deep Dive: Are you gearing up to spend your hard-earned dollars this Black Friday? It's nearly impossible to miss the flood of aggressive marketing from retailers ahead of the Black Friday sales this week. But is it the sale of the year – or just the best marketing ploy ever? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert unpacks why this longstanding American shopping event has become so big in Australia, and how you can you avoid getting sucked in by marketing and snatch a genuine bargain. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s top politicians spent much of last week fighting over what will be a major issue in the upcoming election: migration. Specifically, international students, and how many of them should be allowed to study here each year. Both Labor and the Coalition agree on one thing – they think we're bringing in too many, and it’s putting too much pressure on housing and infrastructure. But despite that agreement, government legislation to limit their numbers was rejected in the Senate last week. The uncertainty is putting universities across the country in a difficult position as they scramble to organise enrolments for the new year, and provide clarity for existing students. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert give you a no-bullshit explainer on international student caps, and unpack the arguments being made from both major parties as we approach the next federal election. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: The Greens back Labor’s housing bill, Israel to vote on Hezbollah ceasefire, Google, Meta and X react to social media ban, and Wicked enjoys a bumper weekend at the Aussie box office. Deep Dive: The Bali Nine were a group of nine Australians convicted for attempting to smuggle 8.3kg of heroin out of Indonesia in April 2005. It sounds like a deal with the Indonesian government might be underway – but what would repatriation look like, why would we want them in Australia, and why has this group been such a big deal for so long? Bishop Tim Harris is a long-time advocate for the release of the Bali Nine, having visited members of the group at Kerobokan prison and working with their families back home. He joins Sacha Barbour Gatt for this episode of The Briefing to explain why he thinks it’s time for the remaining members to return home. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

White water rafting has gone very wrong for a Lithuanian man in the fast-flowing Franklin River in Tasmania over the weekend. After accidentally wedging his leg between rocks, the man was trapped for over 20 hours, partially submerged in the river, while rescuers attempted to release him, staving off hypothermia with hot meals and warm drinks in thermoses. Eventually they concluded the only way to get him out was to amputate the man’s leg at the knee. How does something like this happen? If you’re thinking of doing any adventure sporting over the summer or on your next holiday, should you think twice if considering white-water rafting? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Bruce Baxter, owner and founder of Paddle Sports Australia and author or The Ever Varying Flood: Franklin River Rafting Guide to unpack what he thinks went wrong. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Massive few days ahead in Canberra for final sitting week of 2024, 170 arrested in Newcastle port protest and Mary Fowler steps back from Matildas citing mental fatigue Deep Dive: It’s called 'Pink Cocaine', but it usually contains zero cocaine, and it’s been linked to a series of deaths – including that of One Direction star Liam Payne. So what is it, really? And if you come across it on a night out over the weekend, what do you need to know about it, and how to keep yourself safe? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Dr Amie Hayley from the International Council of Drugs, Alcohol and Traffic Safety (ICADTS) to find out. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Osher Günsberg is a household name in television and entertainment across generations. But in recent years, his work advocating for mental health support, sharing his struggle with a raft of psychiatric conditions, alcoholism and more recently chronic pain has taken centre stage, culminating in a new hosting gig for a documentary about living with chronic pain. In this intimate chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Osher explains his obsessions with saunas, whether he Googles himself, and for the first time, shares his views on the heart-breaking humanitarian crisis in Gaza. You can watch Osher Gunsberg: A World Of Pain at SBS on Demand now Weekend List TO TRY: Finch: Self-care pet on any app store TO READ: The Ladies' Midnight Swimming Club by Faith Hogan TO LISTEN: Spotify Ai DJ X TO LISTEN: Playboy by Fireboy DML Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom always thought he was autistic but was never diagnosed, until he sought out a definitive answer. Turns out he was right. How will his life change as a result? This is the final episode of The Briefing's five-part series on neurodiversity, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Tom to discuss his diagnosis, what it means to him, how he thinks it will impact his future, and if he intends to change his life in any way. This series is aimed at informing and supporting people who believe they, or someone they know, is on the autism spectrum but never found out and made in partnership with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre. Listen to Part One here, Part Two here, Part Three here, and Part Four here. You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here, and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are we all just a bunch of psychopaths? Jon Ronson has made a career talking to people living life on the extreme and unpacking what makes us normal – or not. As we begin the wrap-up for 2024, the global community is taking stock of where we sit as a society, and if we’re better or worse than before. What does someone like Ronson make of it all? Have we become more psychopathic as a global community, or have we become too comfortable about using the term? In this special bonus episode of The Briefing, he joins Sacha Barbour Gatt in the midst of his Australian tour to explain why he’s touring the country to explore if psychopaths rule the world in 2024. You can buy tickets to Jon’s tour here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Fifth person dies of methanol poisoning in Laos, ICC issues arrest warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, 1500 Woolworths warehouse workers strike indefinitely, and an Aussie tv personality has helped wrangle a snake off a plane in WA! Deep Dive: A 19-year-old Australian teenager has died, and another remains in a critical condition in hospital after consuming drinks in Laos suspected of containing methanol. The family of Bianca Jones said in a statement released to media on Thursday that “it is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news that our beloved daughter and sister, Bianca Jones, has passed away”. Jones’ best friend, Holly Bowles, remains in a critical condition in Thailand, while four others are also suspected to have died from the mass poisoning – two women from Denmark, an English woman and a man from the US. The Australian Government has issued a warning following the incident, urging people to be alert to the risks when travelling, particularly with spirit-based drinks like cocktails. After such a tragic result, many are asking – how and why is methanol getting into people’s drinks? What does it do to the body? And what can you do to keep yourself safe next time you head overseas? In this episode of the Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by forensic pathologist David Ranson, to discuss why methanol poisoning is more common than you might think. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom has discovered in his late twenties he’s on the autism spectrum. While Tom had always suspected he was autistic, he’s now had his suspicions confirmed - a story echoed by individuals and families across the country. So how do people on the spectrum navigate the workplace – and what about relationships, both romantic and platonic? In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In Part Four, we’re joined by Professor Adam Guastella from the centre and Nicole Rogerson, founding CEO and director of Autism Awareness Australia to discuss work, friendship and love on the spectrum. Listen to Part One here, Part Two here, and Part Three here. You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here, and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday was the 38th Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) awards. It’s Australia's musical industry night of nights, where artists from across the country are recognised for their success here and abroad. Troye Savon, Royel Otis, and 22 first nations artists were all given a nod for their impact on the industry this year. There's no shortage of talent across the island – from Kylie, to Tame Impala, to ACDC, Australian music has for decades made international charts, club anthems, and worldwide superstars. But we are also an island – and awards nights like the ARIAs can reflect just how tough the music industry is a space to succeed. Earlier this year it was reported that around half of musicians in Australia earned less than $6,000 in 2023, forcing many to quit the industry. So what does it take to succeed in the Australian music industry? On this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith hit the ARIA’s red carpet, asking Budjera, GrentPerez, Surely Shirely, Zindzi & The Zillionaires, Ripley Alexander , Kaylee Bell and Van-Anh Nguyen to share their reflections on the industry. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Social media ban legislation to be introduced to parliament today, US closes embassy in Ukraine amid warnings of ‘significant air attack’, Hawthorn settles court case with previous Indigenous players, and who won big at the ARIA's last night? Deep Dive: Celebrities, institutions and regular people have been abandoning X, formerly Twitter, and joining rival Bluesky in recent weeks. Bluesky is one of a handful of short text social media alternatives that have had some success competing since Elon Musk bought X in 2022. But X still dominates the space. So is Bluesky a real, better alternative, or are those making the switch and proclaiming the death of X just virtue signalling? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Crikey’s associate editor and internet culture and tech reporter Cam Wilson to get his verdict on if Bluesky is living up to the hype, and if it will survive. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom always suspected he was autistic, but had never been formally diagnosed. Now he knows the answer. In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In Part Three, we join Tom as he learns if he is on the autism spectrum, what he makes of the result, and what it means for his future. We're also hear from Professor Adam Guastella from the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre as he tells Tom what he learned from Tom’s assessment. Listen to Part One here and Part Two here. You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here, and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Ukraine fires first US missiles at Russia, Female CEOs in Australia paid $170,000 less, Sydney train network to shut down for three days over union dispute, and a Doomsday fish washes up on California beach. Deep Dive: 3D printing guns is on the rise in Australia. The guns, made using a combination of plastic 3D printed parts and metal components, are unregistered weapons, known as ‘ghost guns’. Over the last 12 months these weapons have been seized in every state and territory in Australia, prompting a national wide task force. But with access to making them only increasing, is attempts to halt their production and spread across the country a runaway train? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Skeeve Stevens, a futurist and expert in the weaponisation of technology, to break down how easy it is to print a gun, and what he thinks law enforcement and the government can do to stop it. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom always suspected he was autistic, but had never been formally diagnosed. What does finding that out look like? In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In Part Two, we travel to Professor Adam Guastella's clinic at the Brain and Mind Centre to sit in on Tom’s assessment, learn how and why neurodiversity is so varied, and how one who suspects they are autistic navigates that complexity. Listen to Part One here. You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here, and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Australian’s want review of Aukus following Trump, Kremlin slams US over Ukraine missile decision, Parliamentary inquiry stops short of recommending social media ban, and Sam Kerr and partner Kristie Mewis are having a baby. Deep Dive: 83-year-old Alan Jones has been charged with 24 offences against eight alleged victims spanning two decades, following a lengthy investigation by police into alleged indecent assault and sexual touching of young men by the former broadcaster. For the past nine months Strike Force Bonnefin, run by the State Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad, has been investigating the allegations, which yesterday resulted in Jones being charged with 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault, nine counts of assault with an act of indecency, two counts of sexually touching another person without their consent and two counts of common assault. He was granted conditional bail and will face Downing Centre Local Court on December 18. Jones strenuously denies all accusations laid out against him. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Kate McClymont, chief investigative reporter at The Sydney Morning Herald to break down the arrest, what we know, and what we can expect will happen next. Note: Following the publishing of this episode, police have added two extra charges on Alan Jones, who is now accused of indecency against nine alleged victims over nearly 20 years. The former broadcaster faces 26 charges including indecent assault and sexual touching - some involving victims under his professional authority. Jones' lawyer insists he’ll fight the allegations. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

29-year-old radio producer Thomas Denham has always suspected he’s autistic. But how can he be sure? In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In this episode, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Professor Adam Guastella from the Brain and Mind Centre to find out what autism is, what common traits people with autism display and what someone ought to do if they feel they, or someone they know, shows some of those signs. Nicole Rogerson, founding CEO and director of Autism Awareness Australia also talks us through what an autism diagnosis can mean for the families and friends involved. You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here, and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Certain Australian businesses to be forced to accept cash payments, Joe Biden lifts ban on Ukraine using US missiles to strike inside Russia, PM won’t detail emissions plans until next year and Kamala Harris’ Uber Eats bill revealed. Deep Dive: After a very mixed year, the world’s best-known cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, is surging in value. What exactly is going on with crypto right now? Can the current surge continue? And how should you think about the risks and rewards of an asset that’s made a lot of people very rich, but made a lot of others lose, and lose big? On this episode of The Briefing, we hear from two experts on cryptocurrency to help us understand the wild world of crypto and where it’s at right now. Bension Siebert speaks with Bryce Leske from Equity Mates Media and Dr Cynthia Cai, senior lecturer at Macquarie University’s Department of Applied Finance. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian citizens living in the United States who aren't supportive of a Trump presidency are considering their options to leave the country. Last week, The Briefing brought you the stories of three Australians living in US swing states, who shared how they were feeling in the leadup to the US election. With Donald Trump now officially taking the top job, one of those Australians, Chris Mead, is planning her exit strategy. She joins Bension Siebert again on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the difficult decisions she and her family are planning to make following the result of the US election. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Shewry is one of Australia’s top chefs who’s behind the world renowned restaurant Attica. He started working at a local restaurant in New Zealand at just 10 years old after sending out letters pleading his case to become a chef. In his new memoir, Uses For Obsession, Shewry exposes the misogyny, harassment, and toxic culture ingrained in hospitality. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Ben reveals why he wrote a whole chapter on hot chips and how one of the most telling things about a person is the way they treat waitstaff. Weekend List TO TRY: Airyday Skinscreens Mineral SPF50+ TO WATCH: Rivals on Disney+ TO WATCH: Yellowstone season 5 on Stan TO LISTEN: Off Menu podcast ep with Sebastian Stan Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weekend legendary boxer Mike Tyson is stepping into the ring with Youtuber-turned-influencer-turned-boxer Jake Paul. The fight is being held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas – but for those who can’t make it in person, the event is set to be broadcast live on Netflix – a first for the streaming service. It's been postponed, hyped, and hated – and will be making a massive amount of money for those involved. Is this about to be the event of the century? Or is an almost 60-year-old former boxing champion fighting an influencer a sad state of affairs for the once-glorious sport of boxing? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Combat Sports Journalist at The Daily Telegraph and Code Sports Brendan Bradford to unpack what he thinks of the whole affair. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.