Big Small Talk
LiSTNR
Big Small Talk: 5 PM Tuesdays So you want to know what’s happening in parliament, but you also want to know the latest in pop culture? Good, as you should. From the front page to your newsfeeds, no story is too serious, stale, funny or frivolous. Because, if you haven’t realised, loving pop culture doesn’t mean you don’t understand politics. Knowing all your shit? That’s hot. New Episodes 5pm Tuesday. Small Talk: 6 AM Thursdays It might not be tangible news but each week there’s something in the cultural zeitgeist that gets us all talking. We want to unpack these frivolous conversations, from new trends to relationship theories to life advice. In an age of never-ending small talk, we want to examine how these collective thoughts affect the way we see the world. We may even reach out to a few friends and experts to weigh in. Big Talk: Wednesday 6 AM - Last Two Weeks of Every Month Over the past few decades, there have been news headlines so shocking that we still hear and feel their impact, such as Roe V Wade, Monica Lewinsky, Epstein, Mabo and Hillsong. Don’t you think it’s about time you knew all the important and salacious details about the real stories that have happened that shaped our world today? Come on, I know you’re curious.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 20, 2026 • 1h 17min
Beckham Family Feud, Iran Protests & Toxic Mum Group
We’re kicking off the year with a stacked first episode - breaking down the extraction of Venezuela’s dictator Nicolás Maduro (with expert insight from Venezuelan senior journalist Claudianna Blanco), unpacking Ashley Tisdale’s viral op-ed about toxic celebrity mum groups, and explaining what Australia’s Royal Commission into Antisemitism and new hate speech laws could actually change. The full Beckham family feud timeline as Brooklyn finally breaks his silence and claims his family "hijacked" his wedding. An explainer on the importance of the protests in Iran. Plus, the pop culture sensation that is Heated Rivalry. Big Small Talk Instagram Sarah-Jane's Instagram Hannah's Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan 12, 2026 • 45min
REPLAY: Is The Girlboss Dead? With Michelle Battersby
We're back next week (so excited!!) but in the meantime, have a listen to this chat with the incredible Michelle Battersby, otherwise known as one of the OG girl bosses. Enjoy!! Big Small Talk Instagram Sarah-Jane's Instagram Michelle BattersbySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan 5, 2026 • 43min
REPLAY: Have You heard About Instagram Face? With Froomes
In this episode, Lucinda Price, a comedian and author of the bestseller 'All I Ever Wanted Was To Be Hot', dives into the alluring yet troubling world of internet beauty trends. She sheds light on how the male gaze has shaped our beauty ideals since childhood and discusses the impact of social media filters on cosmetic surgery demand. Lucinda also tackles the ethics of beauty choices, the rise of 'Instagram face', and how aesthetic pressures affect body image. Join them for an engaging conversation about beauty, privilege, and the quest for societal acceptance.
Dec 29, 2025 • 41min
REPLAY: Is Gossiping A Form Of Intelligence? With Good Noticing's Podcast
Hope you're having a gorgeous holiday!! We thought we would replay a few of our favourite Small Talk episodes this year. This one was recorded in NYC last year with Claire and Ashley from Good Noticing's Podcast (previously known as Celebrity Memoir Bookclub!). Sarah-Jane's Instagram Big Small Talk Instagram Good Noticing's Podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec 22, 2025 • 1h 4min
Bondi Update, Timothee Chalamet & Rob Reiner
Last episode for the year! Thank you so much for all your support this year, excited to see you in 2026! In this episode we give an update on what's unfolded in the news since the devastating terrorist attack in Bondi. We deep dive into the Sean Combs documentary produced by 50 Cent and Sean's alleged involvement in both Tupac and Biggie's death. We discuss TIME's decision to make their person of the year the 'architects of AI'. For comic relief, we replay a few of Timothee Chalamet's funny interviews and why rumours are swirling he's secretly a rapper. Finally, the tragedy of Rob and Michelle Reiners death. Big Small Talk Instagram Sarah-Jane's Instagram Hannah's Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec 16, 2025 • 32min
Bondi Shooting, Misinformation & Support For Jewish Community
The podcast tackles the shocking attack in Bondi during Hanukkah, focusing on the victims and the courage of hero Ahmed Al-Ahmed who disarmed one of the shooters. It delves into the identities of the perpetrators and the chaotic police response. Listeners learn about the rapid spread of misinformation in the aftermath and the international reactions. The discussion extends to the rise of antisemitism, calls for tougher gun laws, and the vital need for community support, underscoring the importance of unity amidst rising tensions.
10 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 1h 1min
Miley Cyrus Engaged, Social Media Ban & Netflix Merger
Miley Cyrus's recent engagement to Max Morando sparks a deep dive into her family drama and musical collaborations. A new social media ban for under-16s is set to shake up the digital landscape, prompting debates about privacy and responsibility. Meanwhile, Netflix's massive acquisition of Warner Bros raises industry eyebrows, with Paramount's response adding fuel to the fire. Sydney Sweeney navigates the fallout from her ad controversy, and Sabrina Carpenter calls out the White House for using her song in a controversial context. Plus, listener gossip about Alix Earle!
23 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 38min
SMALL TALK: What Did We Get Right -and Wrong -This Year?
This week, the hosts share their biggest lessons from the past year. They reflect on navigating personal and work challenges, emphasizing the importance of managing social energy and setting boundaries. Friendship dynamics are explored, highlighting the need for clear expectations. Career growth advice comes with the mantra of seeking new learning opportunities. They discuss emotional maturity in relationships and integrating friend groups for a richer social life. The conversation wraps up with insights on health awareness and fashion choices.
Nov 25, 2025 • 32min
BIG TALK: The Whitlam Dismissal PART TWO
The podcast dives into the dramatic events of the 1975 Whitlam Dismissal, exploring how the Senate blocked government funding and the tense culmination of political deadlock. It examines the iconic dismissal speech and reveals the Palace's involvement through the Palace Letters. Discussions unfold around the controversial decisions by Malcolm Fraser and the resulting protests across the nation. They also tackle the murky legalities of the Governor-General's actions and speculate about CIA influence during the Cold War, all while reflecting on Whitlam's complicated legacy.
Nov 25, 2025 • 56min
Trump’s “Piggy” Insult, UN Gaza Plan, Colleen Hoover Regret
The hosts dive into Trump's bizarre meet-and-greet and his infamous 'piggy' remark. They tackle the controversial UN plan for Gaza and unpack Colleen Hoover's regret over her hit novel. Highlights from the ARIA Awards and Olivia Dean's criticism of Ticketmaster add spice. Plus, Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini's breakup drama brings the celebrity gossip, while Mary Fowler speaks out on discrimination she's faced. It's a mix of politics, pop culture, and literary confession!
