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
Jun 28, 2024 • 52min
Disaster specialist Lucy Easthope
Disaster specialist Lucy Easthope discusses her journey into disaster management, handling personal belongings after tragedies, identification of bodies in mass casualty incidents, resilience, and rebuilding after floods. She explores the Welsh concept of 'hiraith' and balancing work and personal life as a disaster specialist.
Jun 27, 2024 • 50min
Ben Lee: chutzpah mystic, Bondi rock prodigy, Noise Addict
Ben Lee, a former teen rock prodigy turned musician and actor, dives into his journey through music and alternative spirituality. He discusses his unique family dynamics, early success in the music industry, contrasting receptions of ambition in music between America and Australia, and his exploration of spiritual seeking and self-realization, including experiences with Ayahuasca.
Jun 26, 2024 • 54min
The ferryman from life to death
Richard Gosling, a former civil servant turned funeral director, shares his journey of finding purpose in the delicate balance between life and death. The podcast explores the significance of funerals in providing comfort and support to grieving families, navigating etiquette and unforeseen events during services, and the emotional responses to grief and healing.
Jun 25, 2024 • 52min
Life and death in the holy city
ABC's Global Affairs Editor John Lyons delves into the Israel-Gaza conflict, discussing the impact on Palestinians and Israelis, heightened security post-conflict, challenges reporting in Israel, Oslo Peace Accords signing in 1993, and navigating obstacles towards a two-state solution for peace.
Jun 24, 2024 • 49min
Like oil and water
Dr. Paul Hardisty shares his journey from the oil industry to water conservation, discussing his upbringing with a high-functioning alcoholic father, his shift to water engineering in Ghana, unique wedding experiences, working in Yemen, environmental conservation efforts, and family dynamics. He reflects on intergenerational conversations, success, and writing, offering insightful reflections on his life-changing experiences.
Jun 21, 2024 • 51min
Pack ice, seal fat and the big slide: Tim and Ernest's incredible journey
Tim Jarvis, adventurer following Shackleton's path, discusses the incredible leadership and challenges faced during the Antarctic journey. Moments of hope, reflections on safety measures, thrills in South Georgia, and perseverance through adversity are highlighted, along with Shackleton's enduring legacy and the changing Antarctic landscape.
Jun 20, 2024 • 49min
How Leila saw birds anew
Photographer Leila Jeffreys shares her passion for capturing stunning bird portraits in a tiny studio. Topics include appreciating birds through human-sized photography, capturing the beauty of a Brolga bird's dance, creating the right atmosphere for portraits, and childhood memories influencing her work.
Jun 19, 2024 • 53min
Avani Dias on the rise of Narendra Modi
Former South Asia Correspondent for the ABC, Avani Dias, discusses the rise of Narendra Modi in India, highlighting his popularity, RSS ideology, and impact on democratic institutions. Topics include Modi's viral moments with world leaders, the lingering effects of partition, his controversial early life, and the challenges faced by journalists in India.
Jun 18, 2024 • 46min
The beauty of the brain
Neurosurgeon Brindha Shivalingam discusses the intricacies of brain surgery, reflecting on their personal health journey. They share nostalgic memories of childhood in Sri Lanka and touch on advancements in surgical technology, including the potential of robotic surgery in neurosurgery. The chapter also explores the speaker's battle with health scare anxiety and the importance of mental well-being.
Jun 17, 2024 • 28min
Michael Theo's childhood dream
Michael Theo, breakout star of Love on the Spectrum, discusses his childhood dream of becoming an actor. He shares his passion for birdlife, family dynamics, high school memories, woodworking experiences, and advocacy for neurodiverse individuals. The conversation also delves into TV promotions and interesting topics like counterfeit banknotes and espionage.
