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 13, 2024 • 49min
Mummy bundles, fossils and DNA
Kim McKay, the Director and CEO of The Australian Museum, shares insights on the museum's vast collection of 22 million historical objects. She discusses the ethical complexities of repatriating Indigenous remains and emphasizes the importance of respecting cultural identities. McKay also reflects on the emotional impact of travel and the legacy of historical figures like Johann Gerard Creft. Additionally, she highlights the origins of the Clean Up Australia Movement and the urgency of addressing archaeological finds, connecting past and present through environmental and cultural stewardship.
Aug 12, 2024 • 50min
'More than cheesecake' — humanity's shared musical history
In this conversation, Andrew Ford, a composer and broadcaster, dives into humanity's musical journey from prehistoric times to the modern era. He discusses the profound link between music and human experiences, touching on how early influences shaped iconic bands like The Beatles. The rich history of orchestral composition is explored, alongside the evolution of music notation and its cultural significance. Ford also tackles the impact of the internet on music's future, examining subjective interpretations and the parental bond through lullabies.
Aug 9, 2024 • 49min
Conversations Gold: The silver medal that changed Laurie Lawrence
Laurie Lawrence, a superstar swim coach who triumphed over a chronic lung condition, shares his inspiring journey. He reflects on how a pivotal event in 1956 sparked his swimming passion. Laurie discusses the resilience learned through recovery and the bond formed in sports. He details his transition from a physical education teacher to a dedicated coach, emphasizing the power of connection. Laurie also highlights a young swimmer’s journey from silver to gold and the joy of teaching infants to swim, showcasing the transformative nature of the sport.
Aug 7, 2024 • 53min
Conversations Gold: Jana Pittman's turning point
In this conversation, Jana Pittman, one of Australia’s most renowned athletes, shares her remarkable journey. She reveals her struggles with body image and societal expectations as a tall female athlete. Jana recounts the pivotal moment when she shifted her focus from medicine to chasing Olympic dreams. She discusses the crucial role her father's support played in her success and navigates the challenges of balancing fame with mental health. Finally, Jana reflects on her transition to bobsledding while maintaining her medical career, showcasing resilience and personal growth.
Aug 5, 2024 • 51min
Conversations Gold: Paralympian Christie Dawes is super/normal
Christie Dawes, a seasoned wheelchair racing competitor with seven Paralympic appearances, shares her inspiring journey through triumph and adversity. She recounts the emotional aftermath of the 2013 Boston Marathon and reflects on the camaraderie among female athletes in downhill racing. Christie opens up about her father's struggles and the importance of community during her childhood rehabilitation. With humor and resilience, she challenges stereotypes surrounding disabilities in sports while emphasizing the need for thoughtful discourse about disability language.
Aug 2, 2024 • 53min
Conversations Gold: The life of Anna Meares
In this enlightening discussion, Anna Meares, an 11-time World Champion and a trailblazing Olympic cyclist, shares her remarkable journey from the competitive circuit to becoming Australia's Chef de Mission for Paris 2024. She reflects on her emotional experience as the flag bearer at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the strategic insights behind her rivalry with Victoria Pendleton. Anna also candidly explores the complexities of sibling rivalry, her inspiring comeback from injury, and how motherhood has brought her newfound joy post-retirement.
Jul 31, 2024 • 52min
Conversations Gold: Lisa Curry on winning gold and losing Jaimi
Lisa Curry, a celebrated Australian swimmer and entrepreneur, shares her inspiring journey marked by Olympic glory and personal heartbreak. She opens up about the tragic loss of her daughter, Jaimi, and the profound impact it had on her identity. The conversation dives into her experiences navigating grief, the challenges of both competition and family life, and the importance of mental strategies in sports. Lisa also reflects on her early swimming memories and the crucial role her coach played in her development, blending humor with poignant lessons.
Jul 29, 2024 • 50min
Conversations Gold: Patrick Johnson's golden run
Patrick Johnson, the first Australian to run 100 meters in under 10 seconds, shares his inspirational journey from a boy on a fishing trawler to an elite sprinter. He reflects on the profound lessons learned from his father, the unique challenges of his upbringing, and the unexpected spark that ignited his passion for running. Johnson recounts breaking barriers in sprinting, emphasizing the intersection of identity, culture, and resilience in athletics, while highlighting the mental preparation essential for success.
Jul 26, 2024 • 52min
Bruce McAvaney — what a legend, what a champion
Australian sports commentator Bruce McAvaney shares his inspiring journey from a public servant to a legendary race caller. He reflects on his childhood dreams, family memories, and the pivotal moment that led him to pursue a career in sports commentary. Bruce's passion for horse racing, broadcasting key moments in the Olympics, and his experience at the Women's World Cup showcase his unwavering dedication to the world of sports.
Jul 25, 2024 • 52min
Louise Kennedy on Belfast, bombs and a disastrous pav
Writer Louise Kennedy shares her upbringing during The Troubles in Belfast, transition from chef to novelist, struggles of kitchen mishaps, and reflections on writing, health, and Belfast's changing political climate.
