The Briefing

Afternoon Headlines: PM says he won’t be deterred from making public appearances after another security breach, police search underway following the alleged sexual assault of an 83-year-old woman and a British tennis player has apologised after calling our her opponent for bad body odour.   Deep Dive: National security is back in the spotlight, with claims that Russia tried to base military aircraft in Indonesia.   In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by foreign affairs expert Dr Keith Suter to unpack what’s really going on, how it affects us in Australia and how China’s growing influence is reshaping power in our region. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this engaging discussion, Caroline Fisher, a political communication professor and former journalist, sheds light on the art of political spin. She examines how methods like 'Mediscare' shape public perception leading up to elections. The conversation dives into Australia’s urgent vaccine efforts against Disease X and the startling rise of bots in online interactions. Additionally, Caroline highlights innovative approaches to public health awareness, including using platforms like OnlyFans, prompting a blend of politics and social responsibility.

Dr. Chris Boshuizen is an Australian physicist and former NASA engineer who took a ride on a Blue Origin flight. In this conversation, he discusses the recent all-female space mission featuring celebs like Katy Perry, pondering if it was all a publicity stunt. They delve into the emotional transformations astronauts experience, including the powerful 'overview effect' that fosters a unique connection to humanity. The importance of female representation in space travel is also highlighted, showcasing a significant shift in the industry.

Joel Gibson, a money-saving expert and author of 'Kill Bills' and 'Easy Money,' joins the discussion on pressing financial issues facing Australians. He reveals that over half a million homes are at risk due to climate change, sparking concerns over home insurance. With an election looming, Gibson critiques party policies promising quick cash relief, questioning their long-term effectiveness. He also shares practical cost-of-living tips, helping listeners navigate financial pressures as early voting approaches.

Adam Bandt, the Greens Leader and advocate for social reforms, discusses ambitious proposals for Australia, including free university and TAFE education. He highlights the critical need for housing policy reform to assist first-time buyers and proposes fair taxation on billionaires to fund these initiatives. Bandt also addresses the challenges of rising education debts and the disconnect between the government and citizens, urging for a shift towards transparency and accountability in politics.

In this discussion, Dave Coghill, Chair of Developmental Mental Health at the University of Melbourne and President of the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association, dives into the contentious landscape of ADHD diagnoses in Australia. He tackles the surge in cases, especially among adult women, and addresses claims that ADHD has become 'trendy,' a notion he argues harms those genuinely affected. The conversation also highlights the stigma surrounding ADHD and underscores the urgent need for better support and advocacy for individuals struggling with the disorder.

Jameela Jamil, a British actor, writer, and activist known for her role in The Good Place, brings her candidness to this conversation. She tackles the challenges of wellness culture and how it can be misleading. Jameela shares her insights on approaching life with the confidence often attributed to white men. The discussion also delves into the complexities of body image, the importance of women's empowerment, and the risks involved in creative careers. Expect a mix of honesty and activism from this unapologetic voice.

In a gripping discussion, Amelia Oberhardt, host of the investigative podcast Secrets We Keep: By Any Means, dives into a shocking IVF mistake where a woman gives birth to a stranger's child due to a mix-up. She explores the emotional and ethical dilemmas that arise from such human errors in reproductive technology. The conversation also touches on the chaotic regulatory landscape of the fertility industry and the urgent need for better oversight to protect families and donor-conceived individuals from traumatic situations.

In this discussion, Alexa Scarlata, a digital communication lecturer at RMIT and streaming services expert, dives into Netflix's decade-long transformation of Australian television. She explains how Netflix chooses its content and reaches global Top 10 rankings. The conversation also touches on the fierce competition from new platforms like MAX and raises questions about Netflix's future in a rapidly changing media landscape. Additionally, they explore the implications of streaming on local productions and the rise of ad-supported models.

In this discussion, cybersecurity expert Susan McLean sheds light on the recent banning of the violent video game No Mercy in Australia, which glorifies misogyny and abuse. She emphasizes the critical need for accountability in digital content to protect youth. The conversation also touches on the unsettling implications of graphic material on young minds and the urgent necessity for parents and society to engage in open dialogues about online safety. Additionally, McLean critiques current regulatory gaps and calls for collective action against harmful media.