The Briefing

When Emily Maitlis sat down to question then-Prince Andrew about his links to Jeffrey Epstein in 2019, few could have predicted she would walk away with the scoop of the century. The interview on the BBC’s Newsnight became one of the most explosive moments in modern media and a masterclass in calm, forensic questioning that reshaped the global conversation around power and accountability. In this chat with Sacha Barbour Gatt, Emily reflects on the decades of reporting that led that night, the meticulous planning behind the scenes and the unexpected message she received from a close friend of the King just weeks after it aired. Tickets for Emily Maitlis live in Australia. Emily Maitlis appears at the MCEC presented by The Wheeler Centre on 5 March and at the All About Women festival in Sydney on 8 March. Weekend list with Helen Smith Listener Marc TO WATCH: Fleabag on Amazon Prime TO READ: Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid TO WATCH: Frankenstein on Netflix TO EAT: Dumpling Lasagna  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When James Summerhayes got the call from Special Olympics Australia, he’d finished fourth at nationals and thought his Olympic dream was over. But a shock withdrawal changed everything — and suddenly he was pulling on the green and gold. In this inspiring conversation, James takes Natarsha Belling inside his journey to becoming a dual silver medallist at the Special Olympics World Games. From years of hospital stays, to standing on the podium representing Australia, James shares why the medals were never the main goal. For him, it was about connection, inclusion and representing his country with pride. Headlines: Andrew Mountbatten Windsor has been released from police custody after he was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, four teenagers have been arrested for a number of violent incidents allegedly targeting the son of former NRL star Matt Utai, and Eric Dane, star of Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, has passed away at the age of 53. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested, first meeting of Donald Trump’s Board of Peace, Greg Lynn applies for bail, Aussies drop $17bn at Bunnings and Kmart, and YouTube’s first-ever video deemed museum-worthy. Deep DIve: Dinosaur bones and fossils are a highly sought-after market - snapped up by private investors, celebrities, researchers, museums, and increasingly, sold online to the highest bidder.   Just before Christmas, an Australian family made a remarkable discovery: a fossilised vertebra believed to be more than 20 million years old. But their findings sparked a much bigger conversation over the debate of science vs status.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by leading paleontologist Michael Archer to unpack the ethics, economics and how everyday Aussies are helping make ancient discoveries.Further listening from the headlines: The Trump 'vanity project' on Albo's desk Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NSW Government has announced a review after two men escaped from a mental health facility at a major Sydney hospital, and then allegedly went on to cause three deaths in separate incidents. Premier Chris Minns has admitted something has gone “badly wrong”, with many saying the mental health system is broken after decades of neglect from both sides of government.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr Angelo Virgona, President-Elect of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, who explains why our mental health system is failing so many people and why we need targeted funding at both the community and federal levels.  Headlines: A Sydney man has faced court charged with threatening to kill Treasurer Jim Chalmers, there are numerous reports that the US is mobilising its military ahead of possible strikes on Iran, and the Moto GP is heading to Adelaide.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Australian citizen with ISIS links in Syria temporarily banned from returning, MPs admit to accepting free sport tickets from gambling companies, Supermarkets in hot water over item pricing, Shark attacks rise sharply in 2025, And we’ve picked up another medal at the Winter Olympics! Deep Dive: Jane Hume is the new deputy leader of the Liberal party after helping to roll Sussan Ley and install Angus Taylor in the top job.  The pair have since named their shadow cabinet and have promised to restore faith in the party after years of in-fighting, poor policy decisions and a lack of direction.  In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Jane Hume to discuss the new-look Libs and whether they can win back not only their old base, but new voters too.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Police have announced a new taskforce just a day after former NRL star Matt Utai was gunned down outside his Sydney home. Since then another two other houses that are allegedly linked to his son have been targeted - one firebombed and the other peppered with bullets by masked gunmen. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by 7NEWS Reporter Liam Tapper to unpack these latest developments as rival gangs seek revenge at all costs.  There is no suggestion Matt Utai nor any of his family members impacted by the Sydney attacks are involved in criminal activity. Headlines: Pauline Hanson issues partial apology for suggesting there are no 'good' Muslims, Hillary Clinton accuses Trump's administration of Epstein files 'cover-up' and Australians' pay rises are not keeping up with the rising cost of living Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Identity of man accused of attempted Invasion Day bombing revealed, Angus Taylor unveils his front bench, landmark report finds 70% of Australian university students and staff have experienced racism, private health insurance costs to increase by biggest margin in ten years, American civil rights legend Jesse Jackson dies and Aussie pubs thriving as cafes call it quits. Deep Dive: Terror attacks and the people accused of committing them will almost always elicit a strong response from the community – ranging from anger to outright hatred.  When emotions are high and public anger is intense, what does it take for a barrister to put aside personal feelings to represent a client?   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou sits down with barrister Greg Barnes SC to chat about the ethics, pressures, and principles of defending the most reviled accused in our justice system.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says he has no sympathy for the latest group of so-called ISIS brides wanting to return to Australia. The PM also refused to provide assistance or repatriation.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Peta Lowe, who is a Countering Violent Extremism expert. Peta explains what threat these women and children pose and why the government needs to change its approach to tackling extremism and radicalisation.  Headlines: Investigations are underway after former NRL star Matt Utai was shot in a drive-by shooting, one person has been killed after a random stabbing attack in Western Sydney, and YouTube star Logan Paul has sold a Pokémon card for $US16.5 million.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Libs’ hardline immigration policy leaked, ‘ISIS brides’ turned back after leaving Syrian camp for Australia, grandparent of Gus Lamont arrested, intermittent fasting makes “no difference” to weight loss, and Barack Obama clarifies his stance on aliens. Deep Dive: Allegations of mob-linked figures, intimidation and inflated costs on taxpayer-funded infrastructure have triggered a political firestorm in Australia. At the centre of it is the construction arm of the CFMEU.  A recent inquiry has floated a $15 billion figure, which the Victorian government says is untested, as it resists calls for another royal commission. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with award-winning journalist from The Age, Nick McKenzie about what is alleged, how it connects to one of Australia’s largest infrastructure pipelines, and what it reveals about public money, unions and accountability.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been called the “Case of the Century”, and it could change supermarket pricing forever.  The ACCC is taking Coles to the Federal Court, alleging it engaged in a planned campaign to mislead customers over price discounts. Coles is denying allegations, saying the prices were a result of global inflation.   In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha is joined by economist Dr Meg Elkins, who unpacks today’s historic case and its implications for both consumers and companies.  Headlines: Accused Bondi Gunman, Naveed Akram, has appeared in court for the first time, South Australian Police have announced a new search for evidence related to the disappearance of 4-year-old Gus Lamont, police are appealing for information after an 85-year-old was kidnapped from his Sydney home, and former US President Barack Obama has admitted he believes in aliens. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: New-look Libs get on the policy front foot following spill, Albanese shakes off AUKUS concerns with $3.9bn downpayment, Winter Olympics officially Australia’s best-ever, 52-year-old man to face court over Egyptian artefact theft, and millions of Aussies have scored an extra public holiday. Deep Dive: Peptides are being hyped online as miracle fixes for everything from glowing skin and fat loss to muscle growth and anti-ageing, with influencers injecting compounds that sound more like science fiction than skincare.  While peptides are legitimate biological building blocks used in medicine, the social media boom has blurred the line between evidence-based treatments and unregulated, risky products.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by leading dermatologist Dr Ryan De Cruz to break down what peptides actually are and the dangers of buying and injecting them without medical oversight. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a historic first, NSW police have used Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy, or FIGG, to identify and arrest a 77-year-old man over alleged sexual assaults dating back to 1991. It’s a watershed moment for Australian forensic science. But how exactly does it work? In this bonus episode of The Briefing, we're sharing the first part of Secrets We Keep: Should I Spit?. In the series, journalist Claire Aird unpacks the science behind FIGG -- where investigators compare crime scene DNA to profiles uploaded to public genealogy databases like Ancestry and 23andMe, then painstakingly build out family trees to narrow in on a suspect. It sounds revolutionary...But it’s also deeply controversial. From privacy concerns and consent issues to wrongful accusations, this episode explores the risks, the ethical grey zones, and the global debate over whether our most personal data - our DNA - is ever truly anonymous. Listen to episode 2 of Secrets We Keep: Should I Spit? Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ash London has interviewed Taylor Swift in Paris, hitched piggyback rides from Ed Sheeran and helped shape the sound of Australian radio for more than a decade - but in 2026, she’s entering a bold new era across the ditch. The former national radio host is back on the airwaves in New Zealand with a brand new show - after helming Ash London LIVE for five years, co-hosting 2Day FM’s powerhouse breakfast show and becoming a familiar face on Have You Been Paying Attention? In this chat with Chris Spyrou, Ash opens up about motherhood, life behind the mic, writing 90,000 words during nap time and why stepping away from radio made her a better broadcaster. Weekend list with Helen Smith Listener Rabia TO EAT: Figs and ricotta with honey on toast TO WATCH: Crime 101 TO DO: Find Celine Dion’s TikTok TO WATCH: Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance And you can order Ash's novel 'Love on the Air' here!  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s most dangerous killers...The new podcast series that investigates our country’s soaring rates of domestic violence and homicide.   In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with the host of “Kiss and Kill”, Alison Sandy, who explains the dangerous narcissistic traits these murderers display, the warning signs to look out for, and the urgent action authorities need to take.   Listen to Kiss and Kill here.  Headlines: Sussan Ley has announced she's leaving parliament after being defeated by Angus Taylor and the police watchdog has announced it will investigate the actions of officers at Sydney’s Town Hall rally on Monday night.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: We’ve won our first gold at the Winter Olympics, Liberal leadership spill today, Israeli President's visit to Australia wraps, ICE agents to pull out of Minnesota, Katie Holmes pays tribute to Dawson's Creek co-star James Van Der Beek and Kylie Minogue's been honoured with her very own Barbie collector doll. Deep Dive: Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights has never been short on drama - but the latest big-screen adaptation is generating heat long before the final act.  Starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, “Wuthering Heights” leans hard into sex and spectacle, sparking backlash and fresh debate over casting, race and portrayals of abuse.  In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by LiSTNR Entertainment reporter Justin Hill to unpack the hype, and whether this gothic tragedy has been reborn for a new generation or rewritten beyond recognition.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After months of speculation, Angus Taylor will finally challenge Sussan Ley for the Liberal Party leadership. So, who is Angus Taylor, and can he save a party heading into political oblivion?  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by political reporter Katina Curtis to unpack how the spill will unfold and the race to save the Liberal Party.  Headlines: Only 4 of the 19 Closing the Gap targets are on track to be met ahead of the 2031 deadline, RBA Governor Michelle Bullock has fired back at Senator Matt Canavan, and NSW Premier Chris Minns has refused to apologise to the Muslim community after a group of people praying were forcibly removed during a pro-Palestinian rally.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Leadership spill imminent as Angus Taylor quits, Herzog cancels visit to firebombed Synagogue amid security concerns, just three Aussie millionaires have backed calls for more taxes on the super rich, police release audio of Austin Appelbee’s heroic 000 call, Jakara Anthony misses medal in moguls final, and Britney Spears sells rights to her music catalogue. Deep Dive: Elon Musk has sparked fresh space-race chatter after revealing SpaceX is shifting its focus from Mars to the Moon, with ambitions to build a “self-growing” lunar city within the next decade.   With multiple countries and private companies rolling out lunar missions, the push to develop Earth’s only natural satellite is heating up fast.   In today’s episode of The Briefing, astrophysicist Brad Tucker from ANU joins us to break down who the major players are, what a self-growing city actually means, and why inflatable moon hotels might not be as sci-fi as they sound.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Globalise the Intifada” has been in the spotlight this week after Grace Tame used the contentious phrase at a pro-Palestinian rally. Calls are growing from both sides of politics for Grace to be stripped of her Australian of the Year Award, with the NSW Premier inferring the phrase means a violent uprising in Sydney streets.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Middle East political expert Dr Martin Kear, to explain what "globalise the infidata" means, why it’s controversial and its complicated history.   Headlines: A woman has killed at least 9 people in a Canadian mass shooting, a person has been detained for questioning over the disappearance of US grandmother Nancy Guthrie, and new data has revealed rent affordability has hit an all-time low.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Albanese meets with the President of Israel, Liberal leadership challenge set to begin today, Australia calls in Lao ambassador over response to the methanol poisoning deaths of Melbourne teens, Aussie ruled out of Winter Olympics after neck fracture, and Robert Irwin has been reduced to a daggy white boy on the internet. Deep Dive: Convicted Christchurch terrorist Brenton Tarrant is appearing in court this week, attempting to have his guilty plea for the 2019 mosque shooting vacated.  He claims the harsh conditions of his confinement in a “prison within a prison” at Auckland’s most secure facility affected his ability to make rational decisions when he pleaded guilty to the murders of 51 people.  So how likely is it that a judge will grant his wish? And what will the impact be on the survivors and families of victims of the Christchurch attack? LiSTNR’s investigative journalist Joey Watson joins Sacha Barbour Gatt in today’s deep dive to discuss.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What began as a peaceful rally in Sydney’s Town Hall Square turned into scenes Abigail Boyd MP says she never thought she’d witness in New South Wales. In this episode of The Briefing, the NSW Greens MP joins Natarsha Belling to describe the moment she was knocked to the ground and allegedly punched by police while filming a protest, and what she says unfolded around her as officers moved in on demonstrators, including people praying, elderly protesters and families with children. As the NSW Premier and Police Commissioner defend police actions and label the rally violent, Boyd rejects those claims, pointing to hours of video footage she says tells a very different story.  Headlines: A high-profile barrister has been found dead in his home, Ghislaine Maxwell has invoked her Fifth Amendment right to silence in front of a US congressional committee, and Sussan Ley has come out firing.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big tech is under fire for failing to protect Aussie kids from online sexual abuse, including a sharp rise in sextortion and abuse via video calls and livestreams.   Reports to the Australian Federal Police jumped 41% last year, showing just how fast the problem is growing.   In part two of this deep dive, Sacha Barbour Gatt chats with Brisbane radio host Matt Acton, a dad whose son was targeted by an online sextortion scam, on what he wishes he’d done differently and what parents need to know.  If you need help, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or reach out to 1800 RESPECT. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Violence erupts at Sydney protests against Israeli President’s visit, King Charles 'ready to support' police investigation into Prince Andrew, Communications Minister seeks urgent meeting with Roblox over predator claims, and Elon Musk switches Space X’s focus to the moon. Deep Dive: Big tech is under fire for failing to protect Aussie kids from online sexual abuse, including a sharp rise in sextortion and abuse via video calls and livestreams.   Reports to the Australian Federal Police jumped 41% last year, showing just how fast the problem is growing.   In part one of this special two-part deep dive, Chris Spyrou chats with co-lead of the CSAM Deterrence Centre and asociate professor from the University of Tasmania, Joel Scanlan.In part two, Sacha Barbour Gatt chats with Brisbane radio host Matt Acton, a dad whose son was targeted by an online sextortion scam, on what he wishes he’d done differently and what parents need to know.  If you need help, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or reach out to 1800 RESPECT. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s definition of terrorism was set up after the Sept 11 terror attacks, but now the world and Australia have changed dramatically. In 2026, the landscape of terror and radicalization is complicated with new threats from a range of different groups including lone actors.   In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Associate Professor Keiran Hardy from the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Griffith University to unpack how we define terror and how we crack down on dangerous radicalisation and extremism.     Headlines: Israeli President Isaac Herzog arrives in Sydney ahead of national protests, Former Hong Kong media mogul sentenced to 20 years in prison and Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime message.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Sussan Ley could face leadership spill within the week, Sydneysiders told to avoid non-essential travel during Israeli President’s visit, Tropical Cyclone Mitchell approaches Exmouth, Christchurch mosque terrorist to appeal sentence, fears Australia is on track to becoming an “artless country” and The Super Bowl is on today. Deep Dive: Protests are planned in every capital city across the country today in protest of Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s official visit to Australia.  While Anthony Albanese says the trip is appropriate and aimed at promoting unity, critics argue it risks deepening divisions as the war in Gaza continues, and allegations of war crimes dominate global scrutiny.  In this episode of The Briefing, we hear from lawyer Josh Bornstein and Greens Senator David Shoebridge who help us unpack why Herzog’s visit is so divisive and what it reveals about protest, social cohesion, and Australia’s relationship with the Israeli government.  You can read the Zionist Federation of Australia’s December 23 statement here.Further listening from the headlines:Obsession drove Joey Watson into the warped mind of a terroristBad Bunny’s historic halftime show Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chappell Roan took home the Grammy for Best New Artist in 2025, clocked more than 68 million streams in the first 6 months of 2024 and she's currently touring Australia, headlining Laneway music festival.  Over the last few years, female-made, female-focused pop has been in the middle of a full-blown renaissance and all signs suggest it’s carrying straight through into 2026 - with artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX still dominating and Lily Allen re-entering the race.  In this bonus ep of the Briefing from 2024 Sacha Barbour-Gatt is joined by Nic Kelly, host of The Hot Hits on the Hit Network, to unpack the female pop revolution and the secret ingredient to becoming a pop star today.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At just 19 years old, Sherele Moody’s life was irrevocably changed when she learned her stepfather had murdered a child in the home he shared with her, her siblings and their mother. Since then Sherele has become a pioneer in the domestic violence space - widely known as Femicide Watch on Instagram with over 123k followers, where she tracks every woman and child killed by violence. She went on to found The RED HEART Movement - a living memorial and meticulously maintained public database for victims and survivors of violence in Australia, ensuring their stories are named, seen, and never forgotten. In this chat with Sacha Barbour Gatt, Sherele shares her deeply personal journey and how she’s transforming grief into accountability and silence into action. She also gives her verdict on ethics in crime reporting and the frenzy over the case of Erin Patterson that elevated the convicted murderer to a "true crime popstar". Weekend list with Helen Smith Listener Issy TO WATCH: Tell Me Lies on Disney Plus TO WATCH: Bridgerton season 4 on Netflix TO DO: Imagine a holiday! TO DO/WATCH: EUROPA Film Festival Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hundreds of new 'Jeffrey Epstein files' were dropped this week, with more damaging allegations about high-profile politicians. The British PM Keir Starmer’s leadership is now under serious threat after his links to former ambassador to the US Peter Mandelson.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Foreign Editor of 7 News, Hugh Whitfeld, who unpacks this week’s developments and explains why the political fallout from the Epstein files is only just beginning.  There is no suggestion that Peter Mandelson, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor or Bill Clinton have committed any sexual offences.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Deadline looms for Coalition reunion, Penny Wong defends Israeli President’s visit among death threats, Queensland man charged with 596 child abuse offences, child vaccination rates plunge to 30-year low and footy fandom has tangible impact on our stress levels. Deep Dive: The Super Bowl halftime show is set to make history this year, with Bad Bunny becoming the first artist to perform solely in Spanish - sparking both celebration and backlash.  From a supermarket job in Puerto Rico and SoundCloud uploads to Grammy wins and four years as Spotify’s most-streamed artist, his rise has reshaped global pop music.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Seany B from the HIT Network’s The Pulse to unpack Bad Bunny’s rise to superstardom, why this moment matters, and whether his Super Bowl stage could double as a political statement.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The findings of the coronial inquest into the Bondi Junction Westfield stabbing attack have been handed down, and they paint a devastating picture of a mental health system riddled with gaps. Six people were killed and ten others injured when Joel Cauchi went on a stabbing rampage in April 2024. The Coroner has now recommended the psychiatrist who treated Cauchi be referred to the Queensland Health Ombudsman. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by the CEO of the Australian Society of Psychiatrists, Dr Pramudie Gunaratne, who unpacks the Coroner’s key recommendations and what they reveal about chronic underinvestment, fractured care, and missed opportunities across Australia’s mental health system.  Headlines: Authorities have declared the attempted bombing of an Invasion Day rally in Perth a terrorist act, police say they have identified a suspect in the disappearance of four-year-old Gus Lamont, and the graves of more than 250 Australian soldiershave been destroyed by Israeli forces in Gaza.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast If this episode raised any concerns for you, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Future of Coalition in doubt after peace talks fail again, Donald Trump’s would-be assassin handed life sentence, Bill Gates denies ‘false’ allegations in new Epstein files, prominent neo-Nazi has become Australia’s first person to be jailed for performing a nazi salute, Australia’s Winter Olympics flag bearers named, and Draco Malfoy has become an unlikely Chinese New Year symbol. Deep Dive: Political campaigns are known to be run on slogans, slick visuals and attack ads, but what voters don’t see is the money quietly powering it all.   New Australian Electoral Commission data for the 2024/25 financial year shows millions flowing from well-known donors like Clive Palmer, Gina Rinehart and Climate 200, alongside tens of millions in legal but undisclosed “dark money.”   With the rules set to change and questions over whether they’ll work, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with The Australia Institute’s Bill Browne in this episode of The Briefing.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every year, hundreds of young Australians aged 15 to 29 take part in the Burnet Institute’s Sex, Drugs and Rock ’n’ Roll survey - a look into the behaviours, attitudes, and well-being of our nation’s youth. First launched at the Big Day Out in Melbourne more than a decade ago, the survey covers sexual behaviours and alcohol and other drugs, giving us a rare, long-term look at how young people are living, thinking, and experimenting.   In this episode, Natarsha Belling is joined by the study’s lead researcher, Megan Lim, who breaks down the latest findings, exploring what’s changing, what’s worrying, and what it all means for young Australians today.  Headlines: The government will sell off more than $3b worth of defence land, Clive Palmer has announced he will launch a High Court challenge to Labor’s new electoral donation caps, the US Military says they’ve shot down an Iranian drone, and Bunnings may have a solution to the housing crisis.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Four major banks pass on interest rate hike, first senior royal publicly comments on latest release of Epstein files, Melbourne man charged over allegedly giving Nazi salute to Jewish schoolchildren, Sydney’s biggest Mardi Gras party cancelled, and Aussie teen hailed a hero after swimming 4km to save family swept out to sea. Deep Dive: AI-generated inanimate objects have been dominating social media feeds in recent weeks, dishing out what seems like innocent health and home hacks.  Pages generating this content have exploded in popularity as each post gets more clicks and more comments, but many are asking whether we can trust the content, but also who is behind it and what their goals are.  In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt sits down with Dr Karl Kruszelnicki to unpack it. Further listening from the headlines: What to expect from interest rates in 2026 Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Liberal Senator Cory Bernardi is the latest recruit to join One Nation as support for the party continues to soar. So, will the swing to the hard right One Nation party work in the long-term as disillusioned voters desert the major parties?  In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by ANU Political Expert Dr Jill Shepard to unpack the latest developments and why the major parties need to do better.  Headlines: The Reserve Bank has announced it will lift the official cash rate, a last-minute deal to reunite the Coalition has collapsed, NSW Police have extended restrictions on protests ahead of Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit, Bill and Hilary Clinton have agreed to testify in the House investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and investigators in the US say the mother of a high-profile TV host has been kidnapped.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Parliament back today with a split Coalition, Australia's political donors revealed, Trump threatens to sue Grammy host Trevor Noah, millions lost in daytime spending during recent heatwave, and nuggets revealed as the top Aussie canteen food. Deep Dive: Anthony Albanese is weighing an invitation to join a group integral to Donald Trump’s plan to permanently end the war in Gaza - the so-called ‘Board of Peace.’  With major allies declining to take part and accusations that it’s a power grab laden with human rights risks, questions are growing over whether it’s a genuine security solution or simply a Trump vanity project.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Guardian Australia’s Ben Doherty about the Board’s proposed role, its prospects for delivering peace, and how Australia is likely to decide.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another crazy day in Australian politics... The National’s Leadership spill fell over, the Coalition is apparently getting back together and now Pauline Hanson is Australia’s most popular leader. A growing number of Australians are fleeing the major parties as support continues to soar for One Nation. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by 7News political editor Mark Riley who explains just what is going on and why this political circus is detrimental for all of us. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Leadership spills and poor polling for the Coalition as parliament resumes, Clive Palmer responds to mention in Epstein files, Gaza’s Rafah crossing has reopened, Carlos Alcaraz becomes the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam, and The Grammys are on today.  Deep Dive: The Reserve Bank will hand down its first decision of 2026 on the official cash rate tomorrow.  While some economists had been predicting the RBA wouldn’t change the cash rate at all this year, a recent rise in inflation has poured cold water on that notion.  In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with economist and journalist Peter Martin about what we should expect in 2026, and why we should we care about interest rates.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might know him as the conviction politician who speaks out on issues like poker machines, euthanasia and war. But independent MP Andrew Wilkie first made national headlines as a whistleblower who took a very big risk in the name of truth. As Australia geared up to join the US in the Iraq War in 2003, he was working as an analyst for an intelligence agency that reported to the Prime Minister. Here he says he found himself at an extraordinary ethical crossroads on discovering our government’s claims to justify the war were untrue.  "The government was lying to the Australian people about why we should support to the US and join in the invasion of Iraq in 2003," Mr Wilkie says. "I felt ultimately I had a moral duty to alert people to this dishonesty." In this interview with our colleague Joey Watson at Secrets We Keep: Uncovered, Mr Wilkie speaks candidly about whistleblowing against the official narrative, the personal cost of his actions and what it means to challenge power in the lead-up to war. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ilai Matangi was crowned Australia’s TikTok creator of the year in 2025, becoming the first man and first Pacific Islander to win the gong.  Under his username, Havea676, he’s been dubbed Australia’s favourite girl dad and creates hilarious relatable content for his 1.8 million followers on Insta and nearly 3 million on TikTok.   In this chat with Sacha Barbour Gatt, Ilai shares the importance of representation on stages like the TikTok Australia awards and why he’s not going back to stand-up comedy anytime soon.  Weekend list with Sacha Barbour Gatt and Chris Spyrou TO WATCH: Burlesque TO DO: Pickleball TO SCROLL: WeRateDogs TO EAT: Biscoff cheesecake Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Birdwatching isn’t just for dads anymore; it’s booming, addictive, and drawing a new generation into nature.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by wildlife vet and host of Death by Birding, Dr César Puechmarin. Cesar reveals how spotting birds can connect us to nature, spark curiosity, and even transform the way we see the world around us.  Headlines: The federal government will provide an extra $25 billion in public hospital funding, Sussan Ley has unveiled an interim liberal shadow ministry, there's been a double murder suicide in Perth, and screenings of the Melania documentary have been delayed in Australia.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Health funding and gun reforms set to dominate today’s National Cabinet meeting, Albanese defends Israeli president’s visit, Australia spends more on tax breaks for investors than affordable housing, health authorities closely monitoring Nipah virus, and the women’s finalists are locked in at the AO! Deep Dive: The Australian Open has long been the most entertainment-driven of the world’s four tennis Grand Slams.   But this year, as more influencers fill the stands and branded content fills our feeds – some fans are saying the spectacle has overtaken the sport.   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Ben Clare, Creative Director at social media agency We Are Social Australia, about the role of influencers at the AO and how they might be benefiting the sport rather than taking away from it. Further listening from the headlines:Larissa Waters on Sussan Ley, One Nation, and the embarrassment of Aussie politics Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s political landscape feels bleak at the moment. From the coalition consumed by infighting to the brutal realities facing women in leadership, voters are frustrated. As trust erodes, support for protest parties like One Nation is rising, fuelled by cost-of-living pressure, culture-war politics and a growing sense that no one is actually listening. In this episode, Natarsha Belling is joined by Greens Leader Larissa Waters. Larissa unpacks how economic anxiety is being weaponised, why climate change and household bills are inseparable, the controversial hate speech laws, and the failure of political leaders to offer unity or accountability.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Perth bomb scare investigated as a potential terrorist act, PM to push states on gun buyback scheme, Trump threatens Iran as US fleet arrives in the Gulf, Telstra phone update leaves some customers unable to access Triple 0, and Djokovic and Sinner set up semifinal clash at the Australian Open Deep Dive: OpenAI is introducing advertising into ChatGPT. The company says it won’t sell user conversations or allow ads to influence answers, but history suggests platforms rarely stay neutral once money enters the chat.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with senior lecturer in business information systems at the University of Sydney, Raffaele Ciriello about why these ads are more dangerous than others on socials and whether this is the beginning of the familiar slide from useful tool to profit-driven platform.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a trusted surgeon doesn’t listen to his patients?  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by investigative journalist and author of Duty to Warn, Charlotte Grieve. Charlotte takes us inside her explosive investigation into one of Australia’s most controversial medical cases, and the powerful doctor at the centre of it. What began with an unsettling appointment involving her own father, spiralled into years of reporting, court battles, and a landmark defamation trial.  Dr Munjed Al Muderis denies any wrongdoing and has launched an appeal against the defamation finding.   Headlines: Nationals Leader David Littleproud will face a leadership spill next week. The chance of another interest rate cut has taken a major hit, and scientists have moved the doomsday clock to the closest it has been to midnight since its creation.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Bushfire threatens homes in Victoria after record-breaking heat, Perth man remanded in custody after allegedly throwing homemade bomb at Invasion Day rally, support for One Nation continues in latest poll, ABC reviewing security controls after news account hacked, and Alex De Minaur is out of the Aus Open. Deep Dive: When Meghan Trainor announced the birth of her third child via surrogate, celebration from fans collided with accusations of exploitation - reigniting a familiar argument about whether surrogacy empowers women or takes advantage of them.  The controversy comes as the Australian government reviews its own surrogacy laws and considers how, or if, they should change.  In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Sarah Jefford - surrogacy lawyer and former surrogate to break down why this case has inflamed the debate, what’s being misunderstood and what reform could realistically look like. Further listening from the headlines: Could Pauline Hanson be our next PM Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bail laws are under the spotlight after the alleged murders of three people, including a young pregnant mother in rural NSW. The alleged gunman, who is still on the run, was on bail at the time for domestic violence related offences.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Professor Julia Quilter, who breaks down how the bail system works and explains what magistrates are legally required to consider, and why predicting risk is one of the most challenging decisions in the justice system.  Headlines: A 31-year-old man has been charged after an improvised explosive device was allegedly thrown into a crowd at an Invasion Day rally in Perth, A federal watchdog has found Services Australia deliberately broke the law for six years, a controversial British-Israeli influencer has had his visa cancelled, and Australia’s top ChatGPT searches have been revealed.  If this discussion raised any issues for you, the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service can be contacted confidentially anytime at 1800 737 732, or by visiting 1800 RESPECT.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Australia Day and Invasion Day events marred by bomb threat and antisemitism, heatwave hits large parts of southeastern Australia, Trump says his administration is ‘reviewing everything’ after ICE shooting of Alex Pretti, calls to tradie mental health hotline soar, and the quarter finals of the AO get underway!Deep Dive: Hackers are promising to release tens of millions of audio files they claim to have scraped from Spotify, in what’s been described as one of the most brazen digital heists of all time.  It comes as global piracy rates continue to rebound after years of decline, prompting some to declare we’re living through a new “golden age” of piracy.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou walks us through what this new ‘age’ looks like and what role streaming services and governments have played in it.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Australian of the Year named, dingoes involved in Canadian backpacker’s death euthanised. calls for a full investigation after second fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis, heatwave to hit millions of Australians this week, and Alex De Minaur is through to the AO quarter finals.Deep Dive: Patriotism in Australia is shifting, with once‑common symbols of national pride now bringing with them significant political and cultural baggage.  From the anthem to the flag to January 26, the way we talk about and display national pride has changed, with some expressions now seen as ‘cringey,’ while others are viewed as outright racist.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with historian and associate professor at Central Queensland University, Dr Benjamin Jones, about how patriotism in Australia has changed and whether it can survive the 21st century.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Beckham family feud has reignited after Brooklyn Peltz Beckham posted a damning statement addressing his fractured relationship with his parents.  In this bonus episode of The Briefing, Alexandria Funnell breaks down the timeline of events and the swirl of rumours, unpacking how one of the world’s most famous families went from picture-perfect to fractured. From public absences to whispered feuds, she explores whether the Beckham legacy can withstand the cracks now spilling into public view. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wil Anderson (not to be confused with Adam Hills) is one of Australia’s most enduring and influential comedians - with a career that spans radio, television, podcasting across generations. You might remember him from Triple J Breakfast, hosting Gruen or more recently from one of his hugely popular podcasts which reach hundreds of thousands of listeners.  In this chat with Sacha Barbour Gatt, Wil reflects on navigating a never-ending news cycle, the evolution of comedy and why the Sunday scaries hit us all - no matter how successful we appear. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: It Was Just an Accident by Jafar Panahi TO DO: Pap smear check up! TO WATCH: The Australian Open TO EAT: Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff Chocolate Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the multi-billion-dollar industry that’s preying on the insecurities of young men with dangerous consequences. The MANOSPHERE is fuelled by social media and is now playing out in the real world, with major impacts on mental health, behaviour, and relationships.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by extremism researcher Vivian Gerrard to explain what the Manosphere is and the solutions we all need to fight for.  Headlines: A major manhunt continues for 37-year-old Julian Ingram after three people were shot dead in the central west of NSW, the Prime Minister claims the Liberal Party has undermined its first female leader, and a number of NSW beaches are set to reopen this weekend after four shark attacks this week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.