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
Oct 21, 2024 • 51min
Kanye and me — why John Safran squatted in Ye's Hollyweird mansion
In this engaging discussion, John Safran, an Australian gonzo journalist and author renowned for his offbeat takes on culture, shares his wild experience squatting in Kanye West's former mansion. He dives into the surreal and eerie ambiance of the abandoned space, reflecting on creativity and identity. Safran also tackles Kanye's controversial remarks and their impact on cultural narratives. Expect unexpected adventures, boundary-crossing anecdotes, and deep introspection that challenge perceptions of celebrity culture and artistic freedom.
Oct 18, 2024 • 53min
Changing prisoners' minds with Vedic meditation at Rikers Island
Joh Jarvis, a former ABC manager, shares her transformative journey teaching Vedic meditation to men at Rikers Island Prison. She discusses the challenges of navigating security procedures and the emotional barriers faced by inmates. Joh reflects on her own grief and recovery, revealing how meditation became a lifeline for both her and the incarcerated men. Through personal anecdotes, she highlights the profound impact of mindfulness in a place often filled with despair, showcasing the vulnerability and resilience found within these walls.
Oct 17, 2024 • 52min
A wild Bollywood adventure — from Sydney to Mumbai and back again
Nicholas Brown, an Indian-Australian actor and playwright known for his role in "Kites" and work on Play School, shares his captivating journey from Sydney to Mumbai. He reflects on the challenges of embracing a Bollywood career while navigating personal identity and cultural disconnection. Nicholas recounts the excitement of his film debut, the emotional toll of typecasting, and the joys of parenthood. He also discusses his play 'Sex Magic,' exploring queer identity and the healing power of storytelling, all while embracing his rich heritage.
Oct 16, 2024 • 53min
Aunty Ruth Hegarty’s life of defiance, faith and finding her voice
Aunty Ruth Hegarty, a resilient Goongaree woman and acclaimed author, shares her inspiring journey from the harsh realities of the Cherbourg Mission during the Great Depression to finding her voice and family. She reflects on her childhood traumas, emphasizing the bond with her mother and the friendships forged in adversity. Aunty Ruth discusses her struggles as a young worker and the bravery it took to seek freedom. With unwavering faith, she highlights the importance of advocacy and the healing power of storytelling in shaping her identity.
Oct 15, 2024 • 53min
Arnhem Land to Everest — surviving worst case scenarios in the wilderness
Steve Ellis, a seasoned wilderness guide and survival expert with extensive experience training civilians and military personnel, shares captivating insights from his life-threatening experiences in extreme environments. He discusses the critical mindset for survival, essential techniques like fire-making, and the importance of environmental assessment. Steve intertwines personal narratives, including a harrowing Everest expedition and nostalgic childhood adventures, while reflecting on the emotional bonds formed through both survival challenges and family remembrance.
Oct 14, 2024 • 53min
I was a political prisoner in Myanmar — and I could never hate the Burmese
In this engaging conversation, Sean Turnell, an Australian economist and author of "An Unlikely Prisoner," shares his harrowing experience as a political prisoner in Myanmar. He discusses the emotional turmoil of the coup and his detainment, revealing the resilience of both himself and the Burmese people. Sean highlights his work with Aung San Suu Kyi and challenges in Myanmar's economic transition. He also reflects on the eerie design of Naypyidaw and the absurdity of justice under an oppressive regime, all while choosing solidarity over despair.
Oct 11, 2024 • 51min
Raising kids differently and being generous with love
Nikki Gemmell, an acclaimed Australian writer known for her provocative novels like "The Bride Stripped Bare," shares her journey from a coal mining heritage to literary fame. She reflects on the duality of her father's character and the struggles of family dynamics. Nikki recounts her early love for literature amidst personal upheavals and her transformative experiences in journalism. The conversation also dives into her heartfelt romantic journey, the complexities of love and loss, and the empowerment found in navigating menopause.
Oct 10, 2024 • 53min
A Sri Lankan hotel, a Harlem nightclub and orgasm-induced amnesia — Dasha Ross' epic adventures
Dasha Ross, an adventurous author and filmmaker, shares her wild tales of managing a hotel in Sri Lanka alongside her husband John. She dives into a bizarre episode of transient global amnesia at dinner, linking surprising memories with orgasms. Dasha reflects on her childhood and her grandmother's wartime romance, while also navigating the challenges following her father's loss. Her journey from a wine bar in Sydney to filmmaker highlights resilience through life's unexpected turns, making each story an engaging exploration of love and community.
Oct 9, 2024 • 53min
Prostate cancer, testosterone and Tim Baker's masculinity
Tim Baker, a surf writer and author of "Patting the Shark," shares his battle with Stage 4 prostate cancer. He candidly discusses how hormone therapy reshaped his identity and masculinity. Tim reflects on his nostalgic surfing memories and the emotional weight of his diagnosis, revealing how it affects his relationships, particularly with his children. He also explores the stigma around prostate cancer and the therapeutic role of surfing in coping with his journey, blending humor with poignant insights on resilience.
Oct 8, 2024 • 51min
Obsessive-compulsive disorder and how Penny loosened its anxiety-inducing grip
Penny Moodie, author of "The Joy Thief," shares her gripping journey through obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and her path to recovery. She discusses how childhood fears morphed into debilitating compulsive behaviors, emphasizing the emotional weight of shame. Penny cleverly uses a lion metaphor to illustrate the challenging nature of OCD and the significance of exposure therapy. Her insights into the interplay between anxiety and creativity reveal how overcoming OCD can liberate imagination. Ultimately, she advocates for understanding, acceptance, and the power of supportive relationships.
