The Briefing

Headlines: Tropical Cyclone Alfred and the federal election date, new findings on the gender pay gap and the 2025 Oscars wrap Deep dive: What does mental health advocacy for men look like in 2025, and does social media help or hinder the cause? A recent video by charity The Better Bloke Project has gone viral after the founders told women to “shut up” to give men “a minute to think” when discussing the state of men’s mental health in the country. The comments have sparked a fierce debate online around gender dynamics, how we talk about men and about mental health, and who should be leading those conversations. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Professor Braden Hill, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Students, Equity and Indigenous at Edith Cowan University in Perth and a Nyungar (Wardandi) man, who has taken on the task of unpacking content from The Better Bloke Project and other men’s health commentators about feminism, racism and mental health. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thomas G. Burt, a prolific Australian voice actor known for his roles in commercials and animated series, shares his journey as his career was upended by AI. He reveals the challenges of adapting to new technology that threatens the value of human creativity. Burt discusses the risks of voice cloning and its implications for artists, emphasizing the need for consent and fair compensation. With concerns about job displacement looming, he offers insightful advice on navigating the evolving landscape of work in an AI-driven world.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Helen Hayward-Brown, a medical anthropologist with 25 years of expertise in diagnosing factitious disorder, unpacks the mislabeling of innocent parents as abusers. She highlights how media portrayals and high-profile cases like Gypsy-Rose Blanchard influence wrongful accusations in Australia. The conversation delves into the serious consequences for parents, the implications for child protection, and the urgent need for better understanding within medical communities to safeguard vulnerable families.

Jen Robinson, an Australian lawyer renowned for her defense of Julian Assange and Amber Heard, dives into her remarkable career advocating for press freedom and climate justice. She shares the challenges of representing high-profile clients and discusses the systemic issues surrounding gendered violence within the legal profession. Jen reflects on her admiration for Anthony Albanese and recounts her inspiring journey, emphasizing the importance of courage in activism. Plus, she offers delicious culinary recommendations that listeners won't want to miss!

Marty Zambotto, known as Go-Jo, is an emerging pop sensation representing Australia at Eurovision with his viral hit 'Milkshake Man'. He shares his journey from rural Western Australia to the world stage, emphasizing themes of self-expression and identity. Go-Jo discusses the balance between social media fame and musical passion, revealing his excitement for engaging with diverse cultures through music. The conversation also touches on his performance preparations, full of humor and creativity, and the lively anticipation surrounding Eurovision.

Charles Livingstone, a gambling expert and associate professor at Monash University, sheds light on the turbulent financial landscape of Star Entertainment Group. He discusses the recent trading halt and the challenges posed by a changing gambling culture and regulatory scrutiny. The conversation dives into significant drops in revenue post-pandemic, potential bankruptcy risks, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding government bailouts. Charles emphasizes the importance of addressing corporate responsibility within an industry heavily intertwined with societal impacts.

Joe Aston, author of 'The Chairman's Lounge' and founder of Rampart News, dives into the implications of Qatar Airways acquiring a 25% stake in Virgin Australia. He discusses how this deal may lead to increased competition, potentially lowering airfare and adding 28 new flights weekly. Aston also touches on the prior political tensions surrounding foreign investment in aviation, particularly regarding Qantas, and explores the future landscape of air travel and consumer options in Australia.

In this insightful discussion, Ellie Angel-Mobbs, an ambassador for Endometriosis Australia and a passionate podcaster, shares her personal journey with this often-misunderstood condition. She and co-guest Monica Forlano address the fallout from comedian Marty Sheargold's insensitive remarks about endometriosis. They highlight the emotional and financial burdens faced by patients, revealing the shocking costs of managing the disease. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for awareness, empathy, and open dialogues to combat stigma and support those affected.

Emmet Livingstone, a former AFP and Politico journalist, brings his frontline insights from the Democratic Republic of Congo. He dives into the alarming humanitarian crisis, detailing how millions are displaced and thousands killed, all while receiving minimal media attention. Livingstone discusses the complex web of conflicts, militia involvement, and the contrast with global responses to other crises. Tune in for a deep exploration of why this critical situation isn’t on the West’s radar, and what it means for those on the ground.

Lauren Ball, a Professor of Community Health and Wellbeing at The University of Queensland, discusses the controversial topic of funding weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. She dives into the health consequences of obesity and the ethical dilemma of subsidizing these treatments. The conversation explores whether taxpayer money should support weight loss for those without diabetes and assesses the potential societal benefits of wider access to these medications. Finally, they highlight the stigma surrounding body size and its impact on healthcare access.