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
Sep 1, 2023 • 52min
Maggie Mackellar on farming, motherhood, and catching sheep
Maggie Mackellar, a farm life storyteller, shares her experiences on a Merino wool farm in Tasmania, discussing childhood memories, sibling bonds, challenges of catching sheep, swimming in cold water during a drought, and finding a sense of belonging in Tasmania's wilderness.
Aug 31, 2023 • 52min
The Big Pineapple, The Big Merino, The Big Gumboot: how big things captured Australia
Exploring the history and appeal of 'big things' in Australia, including the origins of big advertising, a rivalry over the biggest moose statue in Canada, and the challenges faced in constructing a large lawn bowl. The podcast also discusses the popularity of big objects in Australia, the sense of nostalgia they provide, and the preservation of these iconic attractions.
Aug 30, 2023 • 51min
Crispian Chan on Perth's forgotten terror
Crispian Chan discusses the campaign of terror in Perth that engulfed his family restaurant and the rise of anti-Asian sentiment. Topics include racist posters, firebombing, the Australian Nationalist Movement, the bombing attack on a Chinese restaurant, and uncovering the impact of racism on the Chinese community.
Aug 29, 2023 • 48min
Geraldine Brooks and the world in words
Historical novelist Geraldine Brooks, a former Middle East correspondent, discusses her fascination with history, obsession with horses, and the untold stories of the thoroughbred industry. She also explores the power of relationships, the significance of Lexington the race horse, the use of beetles in skeleton cleaning, and her journey to conversion
Aug 28, 2023 • 52min
Craig Hamilton's three lives
Craig Hamilton, coalminer turned broadcaster, shares his journey from working in the mines to becoming a popular radio presenter. He reflects on his mental health struggles and the challenges of transitioning to a new career. The chapter also touches on milking cows and a mistaken identity that leads to a complicated situation. Finally, he discusses embracing authenticity and overcoming imposter syndrome in the media industry.
Aug 25, 2023 • 54min
Lessons from the world's longest study on happiness: Dr Robert Waldinger
Dr Robert Waldinger discusses the ongoing Harvard study of adult development and the key finding that strong relationships are crucial for a good life. The podcast also explores contrasting case studies of participants and the impact of our digital world on connections with others. The speaker shares their experience working at a community mental health center and the influence of Zen Buddhism on their work as a psychiatrist.
Aug 24, 2023 • 50min
Bertie Blackman's bohemian childhood
Bertie Blackman, artist's child, discusses her unconventional childhood with renowned Australian artist Charles Blackman. Topics include artistic habits, dressing up, cooking spaghetti, including traumatic experiences in a memoir, exploring negligence, childhood adventures and friendships, and a rodeo adventure.
Aug 23, 2023 • 47min
How Julie became Matilda #1
Explores the journey of the Matilda's and the influential role of Julie Dolan. Touches on the electrifying atmosphere of a soccer match and reactions of the crowd. Discusses the visibility and influence of the Matilda's through social media. Explores the early days of women's football and Julie's passion for the game. Discusses the origin of the name 'Matilda's' and qualities sought in young talented players. Explores the mind-body connection and technical skills required in soccer.
Aug 22, 2023 • 52min
Kim and the Constitution
Guest expert Kim Rubenstein provides insights into the Australian constitution, discussing its formation, the white Australia policy, the role of ministers, the incorporation of the US system, the debate on a bill of rights, the 1967 referendum, and the proposal for an indigenous voice to parliament. The chapter also explores the coalition's perspective on constitutional change and the importance of citizen awareness of the constitution.
Aug 21, 2023 • 49min
John Gaden's golden run
John Gaden, lawyer turned stage actor, shares his experiences in the theater, including playing demanding roles like King Lear. He reflects on the significance of imagination in acting and the influence of dress-up games. The speaker also discusses their parents' kindness and sacrifice, early experiences with drama, and the challenges of bringing theater to regional towns. They recount their experience filming an intimate scene for a film and highlight the power of the stage and the importance of an audience. In conclusion, they reflect on their long acting career and their continued passion for storytelling.
