Conversations
ABC Australia
Conversations draws you deeper into the life story of someone you may have heard about, but never met. Journey into their world, joining them on epic adventures to unfamiliar places, back in time to wild moments of history, and into their deepest memories, to be moved by personal stories of resilience and redemption.
Hosted by Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski, Conversations is the ABC's most popular long-form interview program. Every day we explore the vast tapestry of human experience, weaving together narratives from history, science, art, and personal storytelling.
Conversations Live is coming to the stage! Join Sarah Kanowski and Richard Fidler for an unmissable night of unforgettable stories, behind-the-scenes secrets, and surprise guests. Australia’s most-loved podcast — live, up close, and in the moment. Find out more at the Conversations website.
Hosted by Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski, Conversations is the ABC's most popular long-form interview program. Every day we explore the vast tapestry of human experience, weaving together narratives from history, science, art, and personal storytelling.
Conversations Live is coming to the stage! Join Sarah Kanowski and Richard Fidler for an unmissable night of unforgettable stories, behind-the-scenes secrets, and surprise guests. Australia’s most-loved podcast — live, up close, and in the moment. Find out more at the Conversations website.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 17, 2025 • 51min
20th Anniversary Collection: Born blind at the right time
Ron McCallum, Emeritus Professor of Law at Sydney University and former chair of the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, shares his extraordinary journey. He discusses using technology like text-to-speech to overcome challenges and the emotional landscape of living as a blind individual. From his first love story to navigating solitude as an academic, Ron's insights highlight the transformative power of community and empathy. He reflects on the subtle complexities of blindness and the role of meaningful relationships in shaping his life.
Aug 14, 2025 • 53min
20th Anniversary Collection: Brolga the 'kangaroo mum'
Chris 'Brolga' Barns, founder of the Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs, shares his touching journey from aspiring bird enthusiast to devoted kangaroo caregiver. He recounts rescuing orphaned joeys like Josie, emphasizing their unique needs and the joy of their rehabilitation. Brolga discusses the emotional bonds formed with these animals and his experiences managing the sanctuary. He sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of wildlife conservation, including a new film about his life, offering an entertaining and heartfelt glimpse into his world.
Aug 13, 2025 • 53min
20th Anniversary Collection: Stan Grant on what his father taught him
Stan Grant, a veteran Wiradjuri journalist, shares his remarkable life journey, reflecting on his challenging upbringing in poverty and systemic discrimination. He discusses the contrasting influences of his tough father and nurturing mother in shaping his identity. As a successful journalist, he recounts powerful stories from reporting in North Korea and covering global events. Grant emphasizes resilience, the importance of cultural identity, and the hope for unity against racism in Australia. His narrative beautifully intertwines personal and collective stories of struggle and triumph.
Aug 13, 2025 • 10min
Conversations Live podcast extra: Bruce McAvaney
Bruce McAvaney, a legendary sports broadcaster known for his iconic commentary, joins the hosts to share heartfelt stories and cherished photos from his life. He reflects on his childhood dreams and the challenges he faced in pursuing a career in sports. With anecdotes about early life and his broadcasting journey, Bruce emphasizes the importance of active listening in interviewing. His humility and passion shine through as he recounts memorable moments that shaped his illustrious career.
Aug 13, 2025 • 13min
Conversations Live podcast extra: Gill Hicks
Gill Hicks, a London bombing survivor and peace advocate, shares her inspiring story of resilience and positivity. She discusses her journey with disability, humorously reflecting on her prosthetic legs and Converse sneakers. With striking photographs, she highlights the heroism of first responders and the transformative power of community. Gill's journey includes thrilling adventures like abseiling and a career revival during COVID, emphasizing the importance of embracing love and connection over hatred in adversity.
Aug 12, 2025 • 54min
20th Anniversary Collection: Surviving my dad's arrest and learning to thrive
Kirsty de Vallance, a former TV casting agent, shares her powerful story of growing up with a father in prison. At just 16, her world shattered as her father's arrest revealed family secrets and upheaval. She reflects on the impact of this trauma on her life and how it shaped her work today, mentoring children facing similar challenges. Kirsty also discusses her successful casting career, the intricacies of selecting diverse personalities for reality TV, and the importance of community support during crises.
Aug 10, 2025 • 53min
20th Anniversary Collection: The comic genius of Jennifer Saunders
Jennifer Saunders, co-creator of the iconic Absolutely Fabulous, shares her journey as one of comedy's brightest stars. She recounts the happy accidents that shaped her career and the freedom she had in early projects with Dawn French. Jennifer candidly discusses her experience battling breast cancer and how humor helped her cope. With anecdotes from her creative process and a reflection on female friendship in comedy, she highlights the whimsical moments that define her life and career, proving laughter can be a powerful tool for resilience.
Aug 7, 2025 • 51min
20th Anniversary Collection: Judy Sharp and the remarkable rise of Laser Beak Man
Judy Sharp, mother of artist Tim Sharp, shares her incredible journey advocating for her son, who was diagnosed with autism at three. Despite doctors' dire predictions, Judy's unwavering belief led Tim to create the beloved character Laser Beak Man, now a Broadway star. She discusses the emotional challenges of motherhood, escaping an abusive marriage, and the joy of collaborating with Tim on his art. Judy also reflects on her transformative journey in understanding autism and the deep bond that fuels their shared creative endeavors.
Aug 6, 2025 • 53min
20th Anniversary Collection: How power and fear play out in the dentist's chair
Join Sharonne Zaks, a trailblazing dentist and trauma-informed care advocate, as she shares her transformative journey in dental practice. After a pivotal encounter with a patient, Sharonne redesigned how dental care can empower survivors of sexual assault. She discusses overcoming fears associated with dentistry through music and empathy. Discover how the 'dental cabaret' connects with younger clients, and learn about the therapeutic role of music in creating memorable, comforting experiences for patients. Sharonne's insights redefine the dentist-patient relationship!
Aug 5, 2025 • 52min
20th Anniversary Collection: A lion named Christian, and the men who loved him
Ace Bourke and John Rendall share their enchanting journey of adopting Christian the lion from Harrods in the 60s. They fondly recount the challenges of raising him in a Chelsea flat and the heartwarming bond they formed. Their adventure takes a poignant turn as they discuss Christian's remarkable transition back to the wild and their emotional reunion years later. The duo also reflects on the legacy of conservation inspired by Christian, shedding light on ongoing efforts to protect lions in the wild today.
