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
Nov 19, 2024 • 50min
Cows on a plane — an epic journey from Tullamarine to Chennai
Join Paul McVerry, an innovative cattleman and stud breeder known for his groundbreaking initiative of flying cattle to India, as he shares remarkable tales from his unconventional career. He reveals the challenges of transporting bulls from New Zealand to New York City and the chaotic journey of getting cattle to Chennai. Discover his vision to aid local dairy farming while ensuring animal welfare. Paul’s experience offers insight into international livestock transport, humanitarian efforts, and unforgettable anecdotes that celebrate the bond between animals and humans.
Nov 18, 2024 • 47min
From Jaipur with love — building a romantic life in Australia
Mithila Gupta, a talented screenwriter known for introducing the first Indian family to 'Neighbours' and creating 'Four Years Later,' shares her journey from Jaipur to Australia. She reflects on how Bollywood shaped her romantic ideals and how her father's face-reading skill guided her in the search for love during Melbourne's lockdown. The conversation touches on cultural identity, familial challenges, and the importance of representation in media, revealing how grief and personal growth intertwine in her storytelling.
Nov 15, 2024 • 50min
The magic of metallurgy — inside the ancient trade of blacksmithing
Matt Mewburn, one of the last blacksmiths in Australia, shares his journey from rural life to the artistic realm of blacksmithing after his father's death. He discusses the emotional weight of forging a new path amid grief and the significance of apprenticeships. Matt describes his time at the historic Everleigh Workshops, likening the workspace to an 'industrial cathedral.' He reflects on the union of art, metallurgy, and personal transformation, encapsulating the beauty and legacy tied to the craft.
Nov 14, 2024 • 53min
'It was meant to be me' — the teenage TV star who feels 'lucky to be paraplegic'
Louise Philip, an Australian actress, shares her inspiring journey from a breakout role in 'Bellbird' to becoming a paraplegic after a life-changing car accident. She discusses her resilience in returning to acting and the cultural impact of her former series. Louise opens up about her journey to motherhood, overcoming infertility and redefining parenting as a paraplegic. Her reflections on family dynamics, the balance of humor and pain in recovery, and the importance of authentic representation of disability on screen are both heartfelt and empowering.
Nov 13, 2024 • 52min
Exploring death and grief with heart and healing
Wendy Liu, a seasoned forensic and grief counsellor, shares her profound insights on navigating loss and trauma. She discusses the significance of open conversations about death and the unique challenges faced in forensic counseling. Wendy reflects on her early experiences with autopsies and highlights the intricate nature of grief that extends beyond sadness. She also addresses the struggles of families dealing with ambiguous loss and emphasizes the importance of movement and connection in overcoming personal fears and finding healing.
Nov 12, 2024 • 53min
How a macabre country childhood spawned a best-selling dressmaker’s tale
Rosalie Ham, author of the best-selling novel 'The Dressmaker,' shares insights drawn from her quirky childhood in a tiny NSW town. She recounts wild mouse plagues and eccentric locals that inspired her storytelling. The discussion also delves into profound family dynamics, including her mother's affair amid a devastating illness. As a caregiver to her husband with Alzheimer's, Rosalie reflects on grief and resilience, offering a heartfelt look at how her experiences shaped her literary journey and the emotional weight behind her characters.
Nov 11, 2024 • 53min
The epic mystery of a female pope and the birth that was her undoing
Emily Maguire, a writer and author of "Rapture," reveals her journey from a strict Christian upbringing to losing her faith after a stroke. She delves into the legendary tale of Pope Joan, a woman who disguised herself as a man to rule as pope for two years. Emily discusses the tension between early beliefs and personal identity, the evolution of Christianity's political power, and how awe and spirituality can be found in everyday moments. This fascinating blend of history and personal experience captivates listeners with its insights.
Nov 8, 2024 • 53min
From Yugoslavia to Australia — Jelena Dokic on tennis and the truth
Jelena Dokic, a former professional tennis player and author of the memoir "Unbreakable," shares her remarkable journey from the shadows of familial abuse to the pinnacle of tennis fame. She discusses her struggles with identity and mental health during her career and powerful comebacks. The conversation dives into the complexities of resilience, the impact of past trauma, and the importance of vulnerability in healing. With grace, she reflects on her mother’s influence and the legacy of love that fuels her spirit today.
Nov 7, 2024 • 52min
Journey inside Africa's cave of Great Apes to upend your understanding of the human origin story
Lee Berger, National Geographic Explorer in Residence and paleoanthropologist, shares his adventurous journey discovering ancient hominid fossils in South Africa. He recounts his son’s remarkable find that turned their research around. Berger delves into the revolutionary discoveries within an extraordinary cave, sparking a new understanding of human origins. The conversation touches on the thrill of fossil hunting, the unexpected emotional experiences of the 'underground astronauts,' and how these findings challenge traditional views of what it means to be human.
Nov 5, 2024 • 53min
Why Andrew sets the table under the stars in the Australian Outback
Andrew Dwyer, a chef and tour operator, shares his journey of combining fine dining with the beauty of the Australian outback. He reminisces about his 1960s Melbourne childhood and the culinary influences from his godfather and stepmother. Andrew discusses the challenges of serving gourmet meals in remote locations and the cultural connections he made with Indigenous people. He also reflects on the joy of outdoor dining experiences and the adventures he's embarked on while exploring Australia's stunning landscapes.
