The Briefing
LiSTNR
A national daily news podcast, The Briefing gives you the latest headlines, discussion and explainer interviews to keep you informed and entertained.
Bringing you the news you need to know at 6am and 4pm Monday to Friday, and profile features across the weekend, The Briefing is Australia's go-to news podcast for your commute, coffee or exercise.
Know more in minutes.
Hosted by journalists Sacha Barbour Gatt, Chris Spyrou and Natarsha Belling.
Bringing you the news you need to know at 6am and 4pm Monday to Friday, and profile features across the weekend, The Briefing is Australia's go-to news podcast for your commute, coffee or exercise.
Know more in minutes.
Hosted by journalists Sacha Barbour Gatt, Chris Spyrou and Natarsha Belling.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 6, 2026 • 20min
Jacinta Allan on WFH and her Insta blow up + James Packer engaged
Jacinta Allan, Premier of Victoria and senior Labor politician, explains the state’s proposed work-from-home laws and how they aim to boost productivity and help families. She responds to small business worries, outlines who the rules would affect and possible exemptions. She also addresses the mystery of 90,000 fake followers on her Instagram.
Mar 5, 2026 • 25min
‘Globalise the intifada’ banned + The dark world of looksmaxxing
Sam Cornell, a public health researcher at UNSW who studies social media harms and youth health, explains looksmaxing culture. He traces the trend from niche forums to viral platforms. He discusses dangerous practices like extreme dieting, steroids and bone-smashing. He covers links to incel ideology, exploitative coaching, and how algorithms and shame fuel the movement.
Mar 5, 2026 • 12min
The biggest travel disruption since COVID + Great Barrier Reef shark attack
Professor Ron Bartsch, aviation safety expert and professor, breaks down how Middle East airspace closures are reshaping global travel. He discusses why lost hubs like Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi force reroutes through Asia. He explains how airlines will respond, the likely rise in airfares and what travellers should consider about cancellations and safety.
Mar 4, 2026 • 23min
First Aussies back from Middle East + Inside the Kyle & Jackie no show
Craig Bruce, radio industry insider and former content director who launched Kyle and Jackie O, reflects on the pair's 25-year rise and dramatic collapse. He traces their early chemistry, the impact of a $200 million deal and on-air controversies. Craig also weighs ARN's relief, industry fallout and whether reconciliation or legal battles lie ahead.
Mar 4, 2026 • 17min
The thin line between empathy and harm + Senator urges Kyle Sandilands sacking
Professor Gemma Sharp, head of a body image and eating disorder research program at the University of Adelaide, discusses when commenting on someone’s appearance becomes harmful. She explores how to express concern compassionately, the impact of online trolling, media responsibility, GLP-1 medications and atypical anorexia, spotting behavioral red flags, and social media’s mixed role.
Mar 3, 2026 • 22min
Dutton labelled ‘grim’ in secret review + Is high speed rail on track?
Alan Kohler, financial journalist and commentator on economics and public policy, weighs in on Australia’s high-speed rail debate. He argues the east coast bullet train is unlikely to compete with air travel. He explains political incentives behind grand infrastructure promises. He compares international rail models and outlines who benefits and who opposes such projects.
Mar 3, 2026 • 14min
Hillary Clinton’s outburst + Why women earn so much less
Elizabeth Shaw, a PwC diversity and inclusion consultant who advises on workplace gender equality. She defines the gender pay gap versus equal pay laws. She explores how occupational segregation, bonuses and role clustering in high‑pay sectors widen the gap. She explains underrepresentation in leadership and argues targeted policies, quotas and sustained organisational action are needed.
Mar 2, 2026 • 24min
Albo targets secret lobby perk + What Iranians want you to know
Shadi Roushabaz, a peace and conflict researcher raised in Iran and now based in Australia, offers expert analysis on Iranian politics and public reactions. She unpacks why some Iranians celebrated while others mourned Khamenei's death. She discusses communication challenges inside Iran and cautions against simplistic calls to 'rise up'.
Mar 2, 2026 • 18min
PM Albanese’s problematic Iran response + Israel strike Hezbollah in Beirut
Dr Tamar Morris, Senior Lecturer in International Law at the University of Sydney, explains the legal fallout from recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran. She questions the timing and imminence claims, explores limits in the UN Charter on use of force, and warns how Western acceptance could set risky precedents for middle powers like Australia.
Mar 2, 2026 • 12min
SPONSORED: Why you should buy Australian Made
Ben Lazzaro, CEO of Australian Made, leads the organisation behind the green and gold kangaroo logo. He explains how the certification works and why third-party trust matters. They discuss the economic lift from buying local, real impacts on farmers and manufacturers, export credibility, circularity with Remade in Australia, and practical ways to spot and support Australian-made products.
