Squiz Today
Squiz Media
A daily news podcast, getting you across the latest Australian and international news in under 10 minutes. Agenda-free, independent, and delivered by hosts that'll come to feel like mates. It's the news without the noise, cutting through with a touch of analysis and an eye on what's coming next. And there's always a quirky news story or two to give a touch of balance to the news of the day. News for busy people, out 6am weekday, perfect for your morning routine.The Squiz is your shortcut to being informed.Top tip - check out The Squiz Today newsletter. It's the daily news stories, in your inbox each weekday at 6am, with links and more info to all the stories covered in The Squiz Today podcast. Sign up at www.thesquiz.com.au - it's free.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 3, 2026 • 16min
Squiz Shortcuts: One Nation’s rise in the polls
A fast run-through of One Nation’s polling surge and why it is reshaping the political right. Discussion of Coalition splits, party defections and voters drifting from regional Nationals to minor parties. Comparison to international far-right gains and the demographic and policy shifts driving the change.
Feb 2, 2026 • 10min
A new search for Dezi Freeman, and celebrating music's night of nights
A fresh police search for Desi Freeman and new details in several high-profile criminal investigations. Rising US–Iran tensions and the fallout from regional military moves. Political party manoeuvring after a split and rumours about big-name recruits. Highlights from the Grammys, including major winners and milestone achievements in music.
Feb 1, 2026 • 11min
Challenging times as parliament returns, and vale Catherine O'Hara
Parliament returns amid Coalition turmoil and leadership tensions. Polling shifts boost One Nation and Labor. New FBI documents spark global attention. Renewed strikes and shifting plans in Gaza are reported. Alcaraz makes tennis history at the Australian Open. Tributes pour in for Catherine O'Hara and her iconic roles.
Jan 29, 2026 • 11min
A health funding showdown, and closing in on the Australian Open finals
A showdown over public hospital funding and tense talks about who will cover rising costs. A diplomatic thaw as the UK and China reopen trade and cultural channels. High-stakes tennis as players close in on the Australian Open finals. A viral two-ingredient cheesecake hack that promises dessert with almost no effort.
Jan 29, 2026 • 24min
Ask the Squiz: Ambassadors, NATO and shark culling
Listeners hear a plain‑spoken take on what ambassadors actually do and why Washington matters. The conversation traces NATO’s purpose, Article 5 and how the alliance grew after World War II. The hosts also tackle the heated debate over shark culling in NSW and the science and policy questions it raises.
Jan 28, 2026 • 11min
Inflation strikes again, and a jellyfish influx in Victoria
Inflation is resurging with CPI and trimmed mean numbers rising and housing costs driving shelter inflation. Markets may face interest rate pressure as employment stays strong. Tensions escalate between Trump and Iran amid nuclear concerns. A mass influx of red lion’s mane jellyfish washes ashore in Victoria, prompting safety warnings and seasonal explanations.
Jan 27, 2026 • 10min
Temperature records are tumbling, and déjà vu for de Minaur
Record-breaking heat in southeast Australia and how communities are coping with extreme temperatures. Wildfires worsening under the heat and evacuation stories. Big immigration raids in the US and the political fallout. New research linking menopause to brain changes and the role of HRT. Tennis drama as a rising star chases another Grand Slam.
Jan 27, 2026 • 23min
Squiz Shortcuts: What to watch at the Winter Olympics
A lively run-through of Milano Cortina 2026 and why the games will look different this time. A survey of Australia’s top Winter contenders to keep an eye on in skiing, snowboarding and moguls. New additions explained, from ski mountaineering to new luge and skeleton formats. Practical viewing notes for Australian audiences and a preview of standout moments like a possible quad axle in figure skating.
Jan 26, 2026 • 12min
Plaudits and protests on Australia Day, and a very big climb
Coverage of Australia Day honours, new citizens and the protests and clashes that followed. Reports on extreme weather and bushfire risks across several states. Details of a Minnesota shooting tied to protests and a large NSW manhunt amid heat challenges. Sports updates including a big tennis quarterfinal. A gripping account of Alex Honnold’s rope-free skyscraper climb in Taipei.
Jan 23, 2026 • 14min
Weekly Wrap Preview: The Coalition split (again)
A wide political shakeup after the Coalition formally split and senior figures resigned from the frontbench. Heated debate over new hate crimes and terror laws drove parliamentary recalls and tense voting. A polling surge for One Nation and historic parallels raise fresh pressure on rural conservatives. The conversation also touches on jewellery viral moments and wider news wrap highlights.
