The Briefing

The algorithms that decide what we experience on social media, and on the internet in general, have a profound impact on the way we see the world. Yet giant companies like Meta and Google keep the details of these algorithms and how exactly they influence each of us a closely guarded secret. Now, researchers across the country are working to change that. Daniel Angus is Professor of Digital Communication at the Queensland University of Technology and is part of a research partnership involving universities around the country called the Australian Internet Observatory. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack how they're beginning to crack the social media code. Headlines: Pilot of Cairns helicopter crash identified Calls to ban Aussies from southern Lebanon Melbourne bans e-scooters B-girls speak out about Raygun Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has made a significant (and significantly delayed) return to social media platform X, formally known as Twitter, in a ‘live conversation’ with the platform's owner and tech billionaire Elon Musk. Well over 1 million people tuned in to listen to what unfolded. The two weren't always such good friends – Musk has previously called Trump “another bullshit artist”, and Trump has been openly skeptical of electric vehicle tech including Tesla's, another one of Musk’s key personal projects. But the two have reunited in a blaze of glory – or has it been madness? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert and Sacha Barbour Gatt bring you the what-you-need-to-know wrap of what was said, and how it might affect the 2024 US presidential race and the future of global democracy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new report on Australia’s Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) laws was handed down in federal parliament on Monday - and it's found euthanasia is more widely accepted than ever before. Almost 2500 terminally ill patients have used VAD in Australia since 2019, with the average age of applicants between 70 and 79. As our parents and grandparents age, understanding what options are available and how to have the difficult discussion about when to choose to take your own life through VAD becomes more important than ever. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Dr Linda Swan from Go Gentle Australia, who delivered the report, to talk us through what euthanasia looks like in Australia in 2024. Lifeline 13 11 14 Headlines: Pressure to ban gambling ads Ukraine claims to control 1000sqm of Russian territory Trump told to stop questioning Harris’ crowd sizes Miley Cyrus becomes youngest Disney legend Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Selling your sperm or eggs is illegal in Australia, and has been for a long time. Unlike other parts of the world, where you can make a considerable profit – in some cases up to $10,000 per egg cycle, and hundreds of dollars per sperm donation – in Australia we’re only able to participate in ‘altruistic donation’ of eggs and sperm, meaning donating with no personal profit and in a highly regulated system. But amidst a cost-of-living crisis and a shortage of donors, should we be rethinking these laws? In this two-part Briefing feature, Sacha Barbour Gatt explores the value that can be gained in selling a part of yourself for a profit. In this episode, she’s joined by Clinic Director Lotus Health and Psychology and Fertility Reproductive Counsellor Narelle Dickinson to explore the risks of making it legal in Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Selling your sperm or eggs is illegal in Australia, and has been for a long time. Unlike other parts of the world, where you can make a considerable profit – in some cases up to $10,000 per egg cycle, and hundreds of dollars per sperm donation – in Australia we’re only able to participate in ‘altruistic donation’ of eggs and sperm, meaning donating with no personal profit and in a highly regulated system. But amidst a cost-of-living crisis and a shortage of donors, should we be rethinking these laws? In this two-part Briefing feature, Sacha Barbour Gatt explores the value that can be gained in selling a part of yourself for a profit. In this episode, she’s joined by Senior Research Fellow in Global and Women's Health at Monash University Karin Hammarberg, who has worked in IVF programs for 20 years, to explore what it might look like if we changed the laws in Australia. Headlines: 2024 Paris Olympics wraps up Ukrainian troops advance inside Russia Close to 100 people killed in Israeli air strike in southern Gaza Joe Biden gives first interview since dropping out Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy Shark is one of Australia’s biggest names in pop music. When she changed her name to Amy Shark in 2013 her career took off, winning multiple ARIA Awards and working with Ed Sheeran to Keith Urban. Shark's new album, Sunday Sadness, features a dream line up of producers and artists including Kid Harpoon, who has produced and co-written with Harry Styles and Miley Cyrus. For this episode of The Weekend Briefing, Shark joins Helen Smith to break down how she thinks the live music scene has changed over the last decade, and who she ran into backstage at while preforming on The Late Late Show with James Corden. Weekend List TO WATCH - Taskmaster New Zealand on Binge TO DO - DIY Nail dip set TO EAT - One pot Spinach and Ricotta Rotolo (Italian Lasagna Roll Ups) from Recipe Tin Eats TO EAT - Latin American restaurant near you Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There was a bit of a media frenzy at the Paris games recently when North Korean athletes posed for selfies with South Korean competitors at the gymnastics. Those same athletes were also spotted cheering for American rivals, hugging competitors and waving and smiling for tv cameras. There has been cautious optimism that the usually hermit-like North is finally starting to open up to the world after a period of extreme isolation. But how much of this display at the Olympics is diplomatic gymnastics, carefully planned and carried out as positive PR for the totalitarian state? In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Roald Maliangkay, associate professor in Korean studies and director of the Korea Institute at the Australian National University to find out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore have been in the International Space Station (ISS) since early June – and they can’t get down. The pair have been stranded in space for over 60 days due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft – and NASA now says they'll remain there for some time yet. The American space agency says the astronauts will remain orbiting the planet till September 24th at earliest, and potentially until February next year. What went so wildly wrong as to extend an eight-day mission out to what could be eight months? And what’s it going be like to be stuck there with no solid return date. Dr Rebecca Allen is co-director of the Swinburne Space Technology and Industry Institute and joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to explain what happens next. Headlines: Australia has added to its medal haul overnight in Paris Man arrested over alleged terror attack plot at Taylor Swift concert AUKUS deal officially signed Donald Trump confirms he will debate Kamala Harris Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

McDonald’s is an economic juggernaut. Since its inception in the 1940s, the golden arches have dominated the fast food market globally, becoming a beacon of success. But is the seemingly never-ending fast food honeymoon with them, and other outlets around the globe, over? McDonalds has reported experiencing its first downturn in years, and it’s not the only one – recently US burger chain Carl’s Junior, which had ambitions to open hundreds of outlets across Australia, collapsed into voluntary administration. So, what the hell is going on? What does this say about the immediate future of the global economy, and what does it say about us as consumers? Mitchell Taylor is a partner at Simon-Kucher, a global strategy consulting firm focusing on growth strategy, marketing, pricing, and sales. He joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to shed a light on what this might mean for our global economy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial intelligence is colliding with elite sport and mega-events like the Olympics in ways that could soon affect our daily lives, in surprising ways. AI is being used to identify talented future Olympians around the world, to help coaches identify minute flaws in athletic performance, and to improve training. But it’s also seriously ramping up state surveillance of crowds, and for all its amazing uses AI also has some big fundamental problems, like reliability issues and bias. So what should be the role of this kind of technology at a global mega-event like the Olympics? And what does its use there tell us about the future of AI in our own daily lives. On this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert speaks with Ari Waldman, an expert in the ethics of artificial intelligence and big data, to find out. Headlines: Another golden night in Paris Childcare pay rise Harris and Walz tour as Trump reacts to running mate pick Dog perfume for $165 a bottle Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Previously, dairy milk was viewed as an irreplaceable part of a balanced diet. But things are more complicated now, and Australians are drinking less of it. So why the shift? Is it due to greater awareness of lactose intolerance, concerns over animal welfare, or environmental considerations? And how do dairy milk alternatives, such as soy, almond or oat milk compare for health and sustainability? In this episode, The Briefing’s Simon Beaton is joined by farmer and author of Milk, Matthew Evans, to find out more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ASIO and the federal government announced on Monday that Australia’s terror threat level had increased from 'possible' to 'probable'. Part of the reasoning - an increase in young men being radicalised. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said “governments around the world are concerned about youth radicalisation, online radicalisation and the rise of new mixed ideologies”. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Levi West from the ANU’s Centre for Social Policy Research to find out how and why young men in particular get radicalised, and what’s being done to stop it. Headlines: The youngest Aussie medal winner ever Kamala Harris picks running mate Global markets show signs of recovery Judge rules Google has a monopoly on internet searches Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you in need of a go-to explainer on what the hell is going on with the stock market and how it could affect you? This time last week, everything was coming up Milhouse for Australian investors. The Australian Stock Exchange – or ASX – hit yet another record high after months of relatively consistent growth. But since Friday markets across the globe have been tumbling, and $100 billion has been wiped off the value of Australian shares alone. Dr Angela Jackson is Lead Economist at Impact Economics - she joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to break down what it all means for you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

September 11, the Iraq War and John Howard’s prime ministership were among the most pivotal news events of the early 2000’s. But did you know that during that same period, Australia lived through its biggest corruption scandal – where Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein was paid kickbacks for lucrative Australian wheat contracts? Today, investigative reporter Richard Baker launches a major new LiSTNR podcast, Secrets We Keep: Baghdad Nights, diving deep into the scandal, offering new revelations and focusing on the humanity of the people caught up in it. He joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to reflect on how Australia’s politics and media can fail to capture the nuance of a major scandal, and the lessons he’s learned getting to know the real people involved. Headlines: Olympics Update Stock market plunge over US recession fears The national terror threat level raised from ‘possible’ to ‘probable’ Bangladeshi PM flees the country Kamala Harris set to unveil her running mate Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday, Nine Newspapers reported the government was about to walk away from a near-total ban on gambling ads across the country, to instead focus on banning gambling ads from social media and other digital platforms. The new plan for TV would reportedly be caps on the number of gambling ads per hour and banning them an hour before and after live sport. The reported proposal – which goes against the plan originally designed and championed by Labor’s Peta Murphy, who died last year – has prompted outrage on both sides of the debate. Anti-gambling advocates say the new proposal doesn’t go nearly far enough, while the big players in this conversation, sporting bodies, say banning gambling ads threatens revenue that funds grassroots and free-to-air sport. Media companies, including NewsCorp and Nine, argue such a ban threatens jobs. David Pocock is in a unique position to deeply understand this issue—he's both a former Rugby Union star and an independent senator for the ACT. He joined Bension Siebert to explain why the news has made him angry and what he thinks the government should do about gambling ads going forward. This episode mentions suicide. If you or anyone you know needs help, please reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Would you wear an ‘always-on’ AI chatbot buddy around your neck to keep you company? Meet your newest ‘Friend’. Picture a small, white pendant – kind of like an Apple AirTag, about the size of a button large – enclosed in a necklace so it sits perfectly at your chest. It’s watching, listening, and ready to chat to you all day, every day. A user wears their ‘Friend’, talks to it with the press of a button, and then the chatbot responds via text through the app. The point of the ‘Friend’ is simply to keep people company, but what are the implications of technology you wear and talk to 24/7, and what does its creation say about who we are becoming as a society? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by the lead engineer of Friend, Jackson Mowatt Gok, to explain why it's been created, and what he hopes it will achieve. Headlines: Olympics wrap Makarrata Commission scrapped by Albanese government US recession fears spook stock market French pole vaulter talks after going viral for one ‘big’ reason Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daizy Maan Kaur is full of surprises and her name is one of them. She’s the founder of Brown Women Comedy and Soul house with a mission to create more inclusive spaces for south Asian and migrant women. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Daizy reveals where her comedic side came from and why she legally changed her name when she was just thirteen. Weekend List TO DO - Short term goal setting planners TO EAT - Paddle pops TO READ - Meet the queen of the ‘trad wives’ (and her eight children) by Megan Agnew in The Times TO WEAR - Hair tie for a belt TO WATCH - Customise your Olympics experience Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Overnight, Italy’s Angela Carini abruptly withdrew from her Paris Olympics boxing match against Algeria's Imane Khelif, saying she’s never felt a punch as hard as the one Khelif delivered to her nose in that match. Khelif had previously been disqualified from last year’s World Boxing Championships after failing a gender eligibility test, and the debate surrounding the withdrawal has added fuel to an already toxic conversation about the role of sex and gender in sport. The science has been clear for a long time - sex and gender are anything but binary. But how should we draw the line, to keep what is an inescapably physical competition fair for everyone involved? Eric Windholz is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Law at Monash University and an expert in the law and regulation of sport. He joins Bension Siebert on The Briefing to unpack how sex testing became a part of the Olympics in the first place, and the challenge global sport is facing to reconcile science with fairness in world-class competition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Suncorp Super Netball Grand Final is happening tomorrow, with the Adelaide Thunderbirds facing off against the Melbourne Vixens at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. The Thunderbirds hoping to win back-to-back titles and its set to be a thrilling game. This season has been the most attended in the history of Australian women’s sport, with a record-breaking 331,841 fans, marking a 25% increase from last year. But despite national and International appeal, a developing game and high profile stars, why hasn’t netball had a ‘Matildas moment’? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by former player turned TV commentator Bianca Chatfield to hear all about tomorrow’s grand final, and how netball plans to make the most of the surge in interest in women’s sport. Headlines: Another successful night at the Olympics Russia prisoner swap Trump’s race comments trigger bipartisan criticism Mercury could be covered in diamonds Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran has vowed “revenge” on Israel and negotiations to end the war in Gaza have been thrown into doubt after the killing of a Hamas leader in Iran. Meanwhile, Australians have been urged to leave Lebanon as fighting between Israel and Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah escalates. In the last few weeks, fears of a widening conflict have grown. So why are Israel and Iran at each other’s throats? And are we really at the precipice of all-out war in the region? Kylie Moore-Gilbert is an expert in middle eastern politics. She joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on The Briefing to break down the recent increase in violence, and what she thinks is on the horizon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is your social media serving you ‘tradwife’ – or traditional wife – content? These creators embrace a ‘traditional existence’, which includes being a wife, mother and homemaker, making things like sourdough to bubble gum from scratch, and honouring a nuclear family, their husband and God. Big names, including Nara Smith, Estee Williams and Ballerina Farm AKA Hannah Neeleman, are amassing millions of likes and views making tradwife content that some see as an innocent escape from modern life, while others believe to be glamourising power imbalances in traditional gender roles. Megan Agnew is a senior features writer from The Times. Her interview with one of the most iconic tradwives, Ballerina Farm, has forced discourse on the topic offline and into the real world. She joins The Briefing’s Helen Smith to discuss the public debate its created, and if this is women’s “Andrew Tate moment”. Headlines: Another golden night in Paris for the Aussies Iran vows revenge over Hanas leader killing Threats to Australia’s politicians have almost doubled Diet and exercise as beneficial as therapy for mild depression Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rex Airlines has gone into voluntary administration. Has it been bullied out of the market by its competitors? The airline has grounded its fleet of 737 aircraft that service capital cities and will continue to fly its Saab 340 flights between regional centres. Rex employs about 2000 people and their jobs and futures are uncertain, as calls across the country come for the government to step in in some way to help. In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Robyn Ironside, aviation writer for the Australian newspaper, to discuss what this development means for regional travel and ticket prices going forward.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Usually, nominating a vice president doesn’t have a huge effect on an average US presidential race - but this is no average US presidential race. Donald Trump has his pick – self-proclaimed hillbilly JD Vance. Now that Kamala Harris has gone from VP to Democratic presidential nominee, how will she choose her running mate? In this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by US political watcher, comedian, and co-host of Planet America Chas Licciardello to unpack the potential options on the table, and what impact they might make on the race. Headlines: Rex goes into liquidation IDF launches strikes on Lebanon Methane report Olympic update - More gold in the pool Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are a lot of misunderstandings about the world’s uncontacted tribes - communities that are indigenous to the land they live on and reject any contact with the outside world. The idea that they’re primitive or “stuck in the Stone Age” are outdated notions, with advocates passionately defending their place in the world and their freedom to choose how they want to live. Today The Briefing's Sacha Barbour Gatt busts the commonly held myths about uncontacted tribes, and the fight underway to ensure their protection and survival. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who betrayed Australia on climate change? In this episode of the Briefing, Bension sits down with journalist and author Royce Kurmelovs to discuss his investigation into what Australia’s fossil fuel industry knew about climate change more than 50 years ago. Royce describes how the industry managed to win the support of Australia’s governments and media to cover it up for so long. But he also makes a powerful argument for hope in the face of all the grim statistics we hear about the climate crisis today. Royce’s new book, Slick: Australia’s toxic relationship with Big Oil, is available now. Headlines: O'Callaghan and Titmus take out gold and silver in 200m freestyle Rising tensions between Israel and militant group Hezbollah. New developments in US politics Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breaking has, for the first time ever, danced its way into the Olympic Games. Spectators in Paris and around the world will watch as B-girls and B-boys windmill, 6-step, and freeze their way to gold, silver or bronze. But what does ‘good’ breakdancing look like, and what's been the journey to the sport's debut in Paris? The Briefing’s Helen Smith is joined by B-girl Hannah Belet to break down what a gold medal breaking performance might look like, and which competitors she thinks are the ones to watch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could bad bots on social media be leading to the death of the internet? You might have come across a weird AI generated images of ‘shrimp Jesus’, or similarly strange content on Facebook, often linked with absurdly high numbers of likes and comments. It all connects with the ‘dead internet’ theory – the idea that bot created content is accounting for more and more of what is being posted online. So, is there truth to the theory - and are we watching the death of the internet in real time? In this episode of the Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Joel Pearson from Future Minds Lab at UNSW to explain the bizarre world of artificial intelligence and bad bots. Headlines: Jess Fox has won gold Israel announces strikes on Hezbollah Cabinet reshuffle Olympics wrap Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim Minchin thinks policing other people's opinions online is a waste of time. He’s a talented musician and author, who’s smart, has great teeth and was even given three honorary doctorates. His thought provoking ideas on everything from empathy and identity, to why Australia can’t fall into the trap of far-right America is fascinating. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Tim unpacks the meaning behind his latest anthem and his first nonfiction book, You Don’t Have To Have A Dream (Advice for the Incrementally Ambitious). You can pre-order Tim's book here Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Polls released in the US overnight show the presidential election campaign is neck and neck. Kamala Harris, who has all but secured the Democratic nomination after Joe Biden dropped out of the race, is surging in the polls. Donald Trump and his VP pick, JD Vance, know they have a fight on their hands - and it doesn’t help that in 2021 Vance said of VP Harris that ‘the nation is being run by childless cat ladies’. The comments have angered Democrat supporters, including Friends star Jennifer Aniston, have come out in support of Harris saying a woman’s choice to have or not have children is no one else’s business, alongside family support groups quick to point out that Harris has two stepchildren. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Emma Shortis from The Australia Institute to discuss the fallout from Vance’s comments, and what the latest polls mean for November’s race for the White House. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2024 Paris Olympics begin tomorrow morning our time. The 33rd hosting of the summer games will feature 329 events in 32 sports. More than 10 and a half thousand athletes from 206 nations will participate. The Opening Ceremony begins at 3.30am Saturday AEST. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha and Bension break down what you need to know to be an uber Olympics fan - from breakdancing to BMX, and from canoeing to taekwondo. Headlines: Olympics wrap Biden and Netanyahu meet Roundup ruling Searches for gynecology went up after Barbie movie Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with around 70% of households owning one. While choosing to bring a puppy or kitten into your home is an exciting time, the sad reality is a lot of these pets come from farms, mills and backyard breeders. Just 15% of puppies purchased every year are thought to be from reputable breeders. This week a puppy farm was shut down in Tasmania after the RSPCA found evidence of severe over breeding. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Sarah Zito from the RSPCA to find out the best ways to spot a good breeder from a bad one.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine having no internet – well that’s exactly what's happening in Bangladesh right now for over 170 million people since the government has cuff online connectivity. In the last week 10s of thousands of young people have been protesting throughout Bangladesh with reports of more than 146 people being killed during marches. In this episode of the Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by John Heidemann, a senior computer scientist at the University of Southern California and internet expert, to unpack the protests and explain how serious this outrage is. Headlines: Benjamin Netanyahu addresses US Congress Doctors try to reattach shark bite victim’s leg after it washes up House prices up for a sixth straight quarter Aussie flag bearers named Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the dark depths, four kilometres below the surface of the Pacific Ocean, scientists have found small clumps of rocks producing oxygen. Previously scientists believed oxygen was created by living things using energy from the sun, so the idea of 'black oxygen' has thrown a curveball into our theory of how life on Earth may have began. It also begs the question - could life dependent on oxygen be more common outside of Earth? Joining The Briefing to talk through what we know about the discovery, is science communicator and author of How to Save the Whole Blinkin' Planet, Lee Constable.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Politicians and jobs in the mining sector seem to go hand in hand - with former New South Wales premier Dominic Perrottet and former Western Australian premier Mark McGowan both making the jump. But mining is a huge part of the Australian job landscape, with over 1.2m people employed in the industry and the top jobs pay extremely well - so what’s wrong with a former pollie jumping out of government and into a role in the sector? In this episode of The Briefing, Executive Director of the Australia Institute Richard Denniss joins Bension Siebert to unpack how pollies are jumping ship so easily, and if that’s for better or worse for all of us. Headlines: Kamala Harris gives first campaign speech New charges against Beau Lamarre-Condon It was the world’s hottest day ever on Sunday Snoop Dogg to carry the Olympic torch Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Young Australians are living in a world more connected than ever before, thanks to social media. But an increasing number of 15- to 24-year-olds are experiencing loneliness and feelings of social isolation. There’s been a steady rise over the years particularly since 2008, and a further spike in loneliness rates in 2020 – due to the effects of the COVID pandemic. So, what are the experts suggesting we should do to help? Social prescribing has been flagged as a possible solution, which involves the referral of patients to non-medical activities, like health and fitness clubs to art classes. The Briefing’s Simon Beaton is joined by LiSTNR journalist Loren Howarth to unpack the details. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Female made and focused pop music is having a revolution. Why is the happy and light 2000’s pop sound from the likes of Katy Perry out, and the complex and heavy pop of Chappel Roan and Charlie XCX in, and what does it say about where society is at the moment? In this episode of the Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Nic Kelly, host of The Hot Hits on the Hit Network and LiSTNR, to unpack what is happening in pop right now. Headlines: Kamala Harris firms up as favourite to take over presidential nomination for the Democrats Dozens killed in Gaza after IDF orders evacuation Stegosaurus fossil sells for $68 million Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Biden has announced that he’s dropping out of the race for the 2024 US presidential election. In making the announcement he also endorsed his Vice President, Kamala Harris, to take his spot for the top role. She's since confirmed that she’s up for the challenge and wants to ‘earn and win’ the right to stand against Donald Trump in November. But who is Kamala Harris? What does she stand for? And will she gain enough support to win the next US election just a few months away? Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Christian Paz, Senior Political Reporter from Vox, to catch you up to speed on Kamala Harris and what we can expect next from the US Democratic Party.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Biden has announced he won't run at this year's 2024 presidential election. It will set off a race for the Democratic nomination - with Biden formally endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris in his message posted on X overnight. Also in this episode of The Briefing: During the long, cold winter months in Australia, a quick scroll of your social media feed can feel like you’ve stumbled into an ad for the Amalfi coast or London. Aussies love a European getaway in the middle of the year, and the popularity of these trips has surged in the wake of Covid travel restrictions. But is our love affair with Europe on the decline? And what are the next “it” destinations for Aussie travellers? In today’s episode of The Briefing, we chat to Australian Traveller’s Quentin Long to find out. Headlines: Joe Biden stands down Father and baby killed at Sydney train station Oscar Piastri wins maiden GP victory Damages from tech outage to hit the billions Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Frances Rings dance is her first language. Since childhood Frances has always know dance would be part of her identity and in 2023 she was appointed the Artistic director of Bangarra Dance Theatre - making her childhood dreams a reality. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Frances unpacks her journey from a working class family that couldn't afford dance lessons to her first production as leader of Bangarra. Weekend List TO EAT - Meatless Mondays and alliteration TO WATCH - Abbott Elementary on Disney+ TO TRY - Going off social media and a dump phone TO TRY - Good running shoes Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been an absolutely batshit crazy week in American politics. Donald Trump has accepted the Republican nomination to be president, days after surviving an attempted assassination. Then, at the Republican National Convention which has been dominating headlines this week, Trump has named J.D. Vance, a man who once described Trump as “America’s Hitler”, as his nominee for Vice President. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with COVID, just as former President Barack Obama weighs in on whether he should withdraw from the race. To make sense of the wild week that was, and consider what happens next, Bension Siebert is joined by Editor-in-Chief of Raw Story Dave Levinthal, live from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Jack Schlossberg, a self-described silly goose, John F. Kennedy’s only grandson, social media sensation and Vogues’ newly appointed political correspondent. So what does this nepo baby from one of the world's most famous political families have to say about politics. In this episode of the Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Entertainment guru and host of LiSTNR’s The Streaming Service to unpack the logic behind his viral internet persona. Headlines: Biden reportedly more receptive to stepping down 12.9 million Aussies had data stolen in MediSecure hack Peggy and Molly to get their own cartoon Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are growing calls for Australian women to receive paid menstrual, menopausal and reproductive leave – separate from sick leave. Queensland public servants will receive an extra 10 days of paid leave per year, while public and community sector workers in Victoria could also soon benefit. Now unions are campaigning for a universal paid 10 days leave, so all workers can take time off to manage fertility treatments, menstruation and breast screening. So, is Australia ready for the change? And could the policy eventually be introduced into the Fair Work Act? To find out more, Bension Siebert is joined in the studio by LiSTNR journalist Loren Howarth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's media sector has been rocked by mass sackings over the last month. The culling started at Seven and continued a week later at Nine. Many of those redundancies were in the respective newsrooms. Even nightly news hosts were let go.Then Seven decided to shake up its flagship 6pm bulletins with a weekly Friday night comedy segment and daily horoscopes. The move had many in the industry shaking their heads in disbelief. So what the heck is happening to nightly news? The Briefing's Executive Producer Dan Mullins has over 25 years' experience in radio and television. In today's deep dive, he sits down with Colin Vickery, a TV and entertainment expert with more than 30 yearsexperience. Headlines: CFMEU prepares to fight federal intervention Biden calls for assault rifle ban as he returns to campaign trail Andrew Forrest to cut 700 Fortescue jobs Last night’s epic State of Origin decider Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you one of the 30% of Aussies who have a tattoo? The majority of those who have one - 57% - are getting their first ink aged 18-24. There's a growing trend of people having their tattoos removed - could the early age we're starting getting tatted be behind that increase? Within Australia, the world’s leading tattoo removal company Removery has experienced a growth of 30% in removal treatments within the past year, with the current laser removal options safer, more effective and more accessible than ever before. It’s National Tattoo Day, so for this episode of The Briefing Bension Siebert is joined by Jo Kelton, founder and COO of Removery to find out how and why people are getting their ink removed – and if they’re going clean skin or getting fresh art instead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's drama unfolding with one of the county's most powerful organisations - the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU).Dodgy contracts, bikie infiltration, compromised characters and Labor government headaches. It's one of Australia's largest and most influential unions and it could face the prospect of a Royal commission into its dealings privately and with the Government. It's a huge story - but what exactly is the CFMEU, and why is this such a big deal? To find out we're joined by Seven's Victorian State Political Reporter Sharnelle Vella. Headlines: What the Trump shooter did in his final days Man who killed two Australians in the Philippines hands himself in Tenacious D cancels rest of Australian tour Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Influencers behaving badly isn’t new, but are we seeing an increase in social media star being accused of, or charged, with serious crimes of late? In the past 24 hours, wellness influencer Kat Torres, who escaped a life of poverty in Brazil to become a successful model and social media star has reportedly been sentenced to eight years in prison for the human trafficking and enslavement. So how has Torres gone from partying with the likes of Leonardo Di Caprio to jail time? The Briefing’s Helen Smith joined Bension Siebert to take us through the stories of some of the most prominent stars falling foul of the law, and the series allegations being made about Kat Torres.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A catastrophe is unfolding in Sudan right now. Nearly 26 million people are facing crisis levels of hunger, cholera is rampant and many trying to find safety have experienced horrific sexual violence including rape and abduction on their journeys. To conflict stems from the dictatorship of Omar al-Bashir, a pro-democracy revolution against him led by young people five years ago and a power struggle between Sudanese military and a rival militia called the Rapid Support Forces, which kicked off in April. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Sara Sinada, who has family in the region and works as a disaster risk manager for the humanitarian organisation Plan International to explain the situation, and what those watching from afar in Australia can do to help. You can donate to Plan's appeal here https://www.plan.org.au/appeal/sudan-crisis/ Headlines: Trump documents case dismissed Israeli strike on Gaza school kills 22 WA introduce some of Australia’s toughest-ever liquor laws A Royal updates Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Its a research result that has left tampon users across the globe stunned. A team of scientists from U.C. Berkeley, Columbia University and Michigan State University evaluated 30 tampons from 14 different brands and 18 product lines to measure the presence of 16 metals. The findings? All the tampons the researchers tested had all 16 metals in measurable traces, including lead and arsenic. How has this happened – how worried should tampon users be – and are people who use them all over the world being subtly poisoned when they use one? Dr Jenni Shearston, an environmental epidemiologist at the University of California Berkeley and co-author of this study, joined Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain the findings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world is reeling from the shocking attempted assassination of Donald Trump over the weekend. In this episode of the Briefing, we bring you everything you need to know, including: The latest details on the attack The identity and background of the gunman What this means for the US election What happens next In the second half, we have our deep dive into the surging Australian dollar - which is good news for anyone planning to travel overseas. But it's also impacting the economy back home. We’re joined by Angel Zhong, a senior lecturer in finance in the School of Economics, Finance and Marketing, at Melbourne’s RMIT. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since leaving politics Malcolm Turnbull hasn't slowed down, or stopped sharing his opinions on politics in Australia and the world, the state of the environment, and his opinions on some of his former colleagues. The 29th Australian Prime Minister has launched the new season of his podcast, Defending Democracy, where he tackles the global democratic moment the world is watching - Donald Trump vs Joe Biden - as well as misinformation and international political relationships to Australia. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Malcolm shares his views on current world leaders including Biden and Netanyahu, the incoming US election, and why we need to keep defending democracy. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.