Sophie Matterson is restless. It's what makes her adventurous, and led her to being a world record holder. She's the first woman to walk the width of Australia, with a herd of camels. But why did she do it? And what did she learn on her own in the outback?  In this episode of Neil Mitchell Asks Why, Sophie explains why: She encountered the best of humanity in the outback  She's a little bit weird Camels are the best travel companions  She thinks all women should find their own adventure  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kerry O'Brien is a veteran journalist with a reputation as a hard-nosed political interviewer. Since quitting his job with the public broadcaster, Kerry has softened his tough exterior, and is free to express his own opinion. In this episode of Neil Mitchell Asks Why, Kerry shares why: He got kicked out of school and never made it to university He's still passionate about Australian politics He almost joined the army Nelson Mandela was the greatest political leader of his time Truth in journalism matters There is still racism in AustraliaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matthew Guy has led the Victorian Liberal party to election defeat… twice. For thefirst time since his 2022 loss, Matthew has chosen to talk about the trouble plaguedcampaign... Why? In this episode of Neil Mitchell Asks Why, Matthew explains why: The Liberal Party is being undermined from the insideHe thinks democracy is under threat in VictoriaPolitics is brutal and unforgivingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim Baker was a freelance surf writer living a life of bliss, until one day all that changed. At just 50 years old, Tim was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer.  In this episode, Neil Mitchell finds out Why... Surfing can be therapeutic Tim became a middle-aged stoner Modern medicine can do better And why Tim defied his prognosis   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been 11 years since the legendary Jim Stynes passed away from cancer. Neil reflects on one of the most memorable interviews of his broadcasting career with Jim, and another Australian icon, Olivia Newton-John.  In this episode, Neil Mitchell finds out why.. Jim Stynes had a crush on Olivia Newton-John They chose to share their stories publicly  And why they were able to view their diagnosis as a blessing   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leigh Matthews is one of the most famous names in the AFL. His entire life has revolved around football, but very little is known about him outside his career.  In this episode of Neil Mitchell Asks Why, Leigh explains Why:  He’s afraid of failure. His family thought football was the enemy. Being a teenage father was a good thing. He feels guilt and regret. Footy still excites him.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mick Hughes is a former Victoria Police detective and at one point was head of the Homicide Squad. He's chosen now to openly talk about his long and at times painful career... why? In this episode of Neil Mitchell Asks Why, Mick explains why... He stays in touch with victims He was arrested You’d have to be an idiot to raise the age of criminal responsibility He is so open about his mental health issues It was all worth it See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgie Purcell is the recently elected Member of the Legislative Council for the Animal Justice Party, and her first step is to tell all about her personal life... why?In this episode of Neil Mitchell Asks Why, Georgie explains why:She told off farmers at the age of fiveShe eats in the bathShe has a law degree but has never used itSex work is not dirtyYou can be a vegan AND pro-choiceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Neil Mitchell Asks Why, a podcast series where Neil interviews high profile and interesting guests to find out why they made the choices they made.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.