Not Stupid
ABC Listen
Not Stupid is the podcast that helps you understand the news of the week and the stories in your social media feed. Julia Baird and Jeremy Fenandez chat about the stories they are obsessed with and the stories you may have missed.
They look at what shapes our politics here in Australia from Anthony Albanese to Peter Dutton. As the Federal Election looms they’ll unpack and explain some of the big issues that might affect your vote.
Jules and Jez also try to explain what’s going on in the world. They both follow US politics closely and will be watching to see what the next Donald Trump presidency means for the US and the world.
But it’s not all about politics. If it is in your Facebook or Instagram feed (or even on X) they will talk about it. They look at the pop culture figures who are shaping our world from Elon Musk to Mr Beast and Ariane Grande.
There’s also a focus on the issues that affect you like the cost-of-living crisis and the duopoly of the Supermarkets Coles and Woolworths. They’ve also looked at microplastics and bushfires, looking at how climate change is affecting us and what impact humans are having on the environment.
The show will also make you laugh or cry. And on a good day, maybe both. They talk about poetry and history, about films and cakes and everything in between. Julia is passionate about grace and forgiveness so they talk a lot about that, but also about resilience and what makes us human.
At the end of each show, Julia and Jeremy talk about their “pick of the week”. It’s something that has made them think or giggle that week from the silliest Guinness World Record attempts to great books and silly Tiktoks.
They look at what shapes our politics here in Australia from Anthony Albanese to Peter Dutton. As the Federal Election looms they’ll unpack and explain some of the big issues that might affect your vote.
Jules and Jez also try to explain what’s going on in the world. They both follow US politics closely and will be watching to see what the next Donald Trump presidency means for the US and the world.
But it’s not all about politics. If it is in your Facebook or Instagram feed (or even on X) they will talk about it. They look at the pop culture figures who are shaping our world from Elon Musk to Mr Beast and Ariane Grande.
There’s also a focus on the issues that affect you like the cost-of-living crisis and the duopoly of the Supermarkets Coles and Woolworths. They’ve also looked at microplastics and bushfires, looking at how climate change is affecting us and what impact humans are having on the environment.
The show will also make you laugh or cry. And on a good day, maybe both. They talk about poetry and history, about films and cakes and everything in between. Julia is passionate about grace and forgiveness so they talk a lot about that, but also about resilience and what makes us human.
At the end of each show, Julia and Jeremy talk about their “pick of the week”. It’s something that has made them think or giggle that week from the silliest Guinness World Record attempts to great books and silly Tiktoks.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 6, 2025 • 35min
Red carpets and bridge marches
Police say 90, 000 people walked across the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Sunday, calling for peace in Gaza. So do protests make a difference? And on the same day, the TV Logie Awards were held and Jez was there. In a room full of "tv stars" he was amazed by the humility of so many people who spend their life on the television.Also actor Sydney Sweeney has been making headlines for a new ad campaign about genes and would we all feel lighter and calmer if we walked away from our phones?
Jul 30, 2025 • 39min
Will this "tipping point" change anything in Gaza?
The latest images out of Gaza are horrific. There are headlines across the globe and lots of people are posting on social media. But what will it mean for people in Gaza?And Jules and Jez talk about Monica Lewinsky, thirty years after the sex scandal with Bill Clinton broke. JULIA'S PICKhttps://andreagibson.substack.com/p/a-list-of-things-i-loveJEREMY'S PICKhttps://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/07/26/vatican-hot-priests-spread-faith-digital-age/
Jul 23, 2025 • 40min
Should we punish politicians like Mark Latham?
With the Independent NSW MP Mark Latham in the headlines once again facing unsavoury allegations, Jez and Bev talk about the boundaries of acceptable behaviour of our politicians.Would you like to know if the music you’re listening to has been AI-generated? Boasting a million listens on Spotify, AI-generated band The Velvet Sundown, has prompted questions around the ethics of AI-generated music and the real people who are using bots to game the system. Jeremy Fernandez and Beverley Wang chat about the stories you're obsessed with, the stuff you've missed and the things that matter. Filling in while Julia Baird is away is Beverley Wang, ABC’s National Culture correspondent, co-host of Stop Everything and Life Matters on Radio National.Episodes drop every Wednesday afternoon. We want to hear from you! Join the conversation and email the show at notstupid@abc.net.au
Jul 16, 2025 • 41min
Trump backflips on Epstein and MAGA slaps back
Beverley Wang, ABC’s National Culture correspondent and co-host of Stop Everything, brings her insights to the conversation. She and Jez dissect the swirling controversies around Donald Trump’s shifting narrative regarding Jeffrey Epstein, including the backlash from his MAGA base. They also delve into the complexities of memoir writing, specifically addressing the dilemmas surrounding Rainer Wynne's 'The Salt Path.' The duo discusses the blurred lines between emotional truth and factual accuracy, raising questions about accountability in personal storytelling.
13 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 38min
Why we're still obsessed with the mushroom case
Beverley Wang, ABC’s National Culture correspondent and co-host of Stop Everything and Life Matters, delves into our fascination with the mushroom murder trial. She and Jez discuss the societal narratives surrounding women and violence, reflecting on how media shapes our perceptions of innocence and danger. The conversation also touches on Elon Musk's new political venture and the ramifications of the Big Beautiful Bill in the U.S. as they unpack its impact on government spending and social services.
6 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 35min
Slowing down when the world moves so fast
The hosts discuss the art of 'slow looking' in a world full of distractions, emphasizing the benefits of deeper engagement with art and nature. They share listener stories about unique colors and explore the emotional impact of a viral AI video that animates childhood memories. Additionally, the conversation touches on the humorous 'We Do Not Care Club' for women over 40, celebrating the freedom found in accepting imperfections. Expect laughter and insightful reflections on life in a fast-paced society.
11 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 40min
Is there any hope for an Israel-Iran ceasefire?
Tensions heat up as discussions unfold around the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran amid US intervention. The emotional weight of emergency room doctors facing crises like mass shootings parallels the struggles in Gaza, highlighting moral injury in healthcare. Journalists grapple with the trauma of war reporting, reflecting on their ethical dilemmas. Meanwhile, there's a dive into Iran's internal struggles, women's rights, and the call for democracy. Lastly, a light-hearted take on community whale watching brings a refreshing focus on nature's recovery.
20 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 36min
Will the world be drawn into the Iran-Israel conflict?
Tensions in the Middle East escalate as Israel targets Iran over nuclear concerns, raising questions about international diplomacy and Trump's unpredictable role. The hosts also dive into quirky historical artifacts, sharing humorous stories about cane toad dioramas and family heirlooms. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own memories tied to meaningful objects. As classical music fans eagerly await the Classic 100 countdown, they share personal connections to their favorite pieces, blending art, history, and nostalgia into a rich discussion.
24 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 42min
Why is Trump going so hard in California?
Dive into the escalating conflict between Donald Trump and California, spotlighting immigration tensions and the protests that ensued. Unpack the militarization of domestic policy and the dubious rhetoric surrounding 'internal enemies.' Reflect on Pride Month as discrimination rises, and the poignant removal of Harvey Milk's name from a Navy ship highlights the ongoing battle for LGBTQ+ rights. Finally, explore how queer narratives can bridge gaps in family acceptance, showcasing the transformative power of literature.
Jun 4, 2025 • 42min
Can a politician change their mind?
The podcast dives into the controversial defection of a Greens Senator to the Labor Party, unpacking the complexities of political loyalty and personal beliefs. It also explores the chilling case of nurse Lucy Letby, raising questions about trust in healthcare and systemic failures. Meanwhile, the hosts celebrate their anniversary with sweet reflections and literary recommendations, connecting cultural identity and resilience to personal stories. The episode wraps up with nostalgic musical moments, fostering community connections through shared experiences.
