Squiz Today
Squiz Media
A daily news podcast, getting you across the latest Australian and international news in under 10 minutes. Agenda-free, independent, and delivered by hosts that'll come to feel like mates. It's the news without the noise, cutting through with a touch of analysis and an eye on what's coming next. And there's always a quirky news story or two to give a touch of balance to the news of the day. News for busy people, out 6am weekday, perfect for your morning routine.The Squiz is your shortcut to being informed.Top tip - check out The Squiz Today newsletter. It's the daily news stories, in your inbox each weekday at 6am, with links and more info to all the stories covered in The Squiz Today podcast. Sign up at www.thesquiz.com.au - it's free.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 11, 2025 • 12min
The US cracks down on travellers, and a lemon twist on a classic
Friday, 12 December: The US cracks down on travellers; Greg Lynn wins his appeal; TIME names its people of the year; And a lemony twist on a classic...
SPONSORED: Search for ‘The Business Of’ in your podcast app, have a listen and hit follow.
You can find our Shortcut on the conflict between the US and Venezuela here.
Find the recipe for limoncello tiramisu here.
And read up on Italian cuisine/cooking rituals making the UNESCO World Heritage list here.
You can get The Squiz Today newsletter in your inbox each weekday morning (links to all today’s stories, plus a dose of quirky news).
Other things we do:
Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!
Newshounds, by Squiz Kids - a free media literacy program designed to teach primary-school students how to recognise misinformation and disinformation when they come across it.
Check out News Club - the place for conversations about the news hosted by Claire Kimball, Kate Watson and Jodie Speers - including the interview series, Newsmakers.
Sign up for the Saturday Squiz newsletter here - it's the news, weekend style.
Sign up for The Squiz Shortcuts newsletter here - a weekly explainer on big news topics
Support The Squiz by sharing our newsletters and podcasts with your friends.
Dec 10, 2025 • 13min
The world watches our social media ban, and Neighbours says farewell
Thursday, 11 December: The world watches our social media ban; Reviewing the AUKUS challenges; A spectacular sight at Byron; And Neighbours says farewell...
SPONSORED: Head here to find out more about how copper powers our world and BHP.
You can watch the footage of hundreds of sharks at Byron Bay here.
You can get The Squiz Today newsletter in your inbox each weekday morning (links to all today’s stories, plus a dose of quirky news).
Other things we do:
Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!
Newshounds, by Squiz Kids - a free media literacy program designed to teach primary-school students how to recognise misinformation and disinformation when they come across it.
Check out News Club - the place for conversations about the news hosted by Claire Kimball, Kate Watson and Jodie Speers - including the interview series, Newsmakers.
Sign up for the Saturday Squiz newsletter here - it's the news, weekend style.
Sign up for The Squiz Shortcuts newsletter here - a weekly explainer on big news topics
Support The Squiz by sharing our newsletters and podcasts with your friends.
Dec 10, 2025 • 12min
Squiz Shortcuts: The social media ban for U16s - Part 1: How did we get here?
Australia is pioneering world-first legislation banning social media for anyone under the age of 16. And depending on who you ask, it's either a bold move to protect kids, or government overreach that won't work. So, in the first of this special 3-part series on the ban, we'll look at how we got to this point, who was pushing for it, and why it became such a political no-brainer...
Squiz Recommends:
Reading: This article by the ABC looks at the High Court challenge to the upcoming laws by 2 Aussie teens.
Reading: This piece by The Guardian talks about similar moves overseas to ban social media for teens, including a resolution passed by the EU…
Email us: Got a topic you want us to tackle? Send us your Shortcut suggestions to hello@thesquiz.com.au.
Squiz Shortcuts is your back story to the big news stories…
Want the email version? Sign up for the Shortcuts newsletter here
Prefer to watch this episode? Check it out on YouTube here
Dec 10, 2025 • 18min
Squiz Shortcuts: The social media ban for U16s - Part 2: How will it work?
As of 10 December, all Aussie kids under the age of 16 will be legally banned from social media apps. In Part 2 of our series on Australia’s world-first legislation, we’re looking at the nuts and bolts of how the ban will work, including how the policy will be enforced, how the tech giants will go about identifying who is underage, and what the implications could be for kids looking for online alternatives…
Squiz Recommends:
Reading: Here’s YouTube’s case for why pushing kids off known apps could send them to the unregulated corners of the internet…
Reading: And this piece from The Conversation lets young people have their say about the upcoming ban…
Email us: Got a topic you'd like us to tackle? Send us your Shortcut suggestions to hello@thesquiz.com.au.
Squiz Shortcuts is your back story to the big news stories…
Want the email version? Sign up for the Shortcuts newsletter here
Prefer to watch this episode? Check it out on YouTube here
Dec 9, 2025 • 12min
It's go time for the social media ban, and an AI reality show
A groundbreaking social media ban for under-16s is now in effect, aimed at enhancing online safety for kids. Meanwhile, Ukraine updates its peace proposal, stirring international debate over territorial issues. In finance, the Reserve Bank holds interest rates steady while looking ahead to 2026. Hollywood is buzzing with merger discussions, and an intriguing new reality show made entirely by AI is set to debut, questioning the future of entertainment. Tune in for these hot topics and more!
Dec 9, 2025 • 13min
Squiz Shortcuts: Will my sunscreen protect me this summer?
As summer heats up, sunscreen's reliability is under scrutiny. CHOICE's recent tests revealed alarming failures among popular brands, sparking recalls and concerns. The TGA's unique oversight aims to ensure safety, but inconsistencies in testing methods have raised eyebrows. Despite public worries, experts still advocate for regular sunscreen use, emphasizing its role in reducing skin cancer risks. Key tips for consumers include choosing SPF 30/50+, broad spectrum protection, and understanding application methods for maximum effectiveness.
Dec 8, 2025 • 11min
Joyce joins One Nation, and the Golden Globes nominees are in
Barnaby Joyce makes headlines by joining One Nation, uncovering tensions within the Nationals. A guilty verdict brings closure in the Toyah Cordingley murder case. Tim Tams are set for global expansion thanks to a major funding boost. Meanwhile, the Golden Globes reveal surprising nominees and snubs. Plus, there's an intriguing look at rising scrutiny over sunscreen effectiveness. Lastly, listeners are encouraged to submit questions for an upcoming special segment!
Dec 7, 2025 • 12min
All eyes on the social media ban, and the new colour of the year
The hosts dive into the contentious social media ban, discussing its implications and public criticism. A deep dive into bushfires reveals devastating impacts in NSW and Tasmania. In a big move, Netflix unveils a staggering merger deal with Warner, raising eyebrows in the industry. Meanwhile, athletic thrills with a recap of F1's championship drama keep the excitement alive. Pantone’s color of the year, Cloud Dancer, is unveiled, revealing its cultural significance. Join for current events, quirky news, and a mouthwatering brownie recipe!
Dec 5, 2025 • 14min
Weekly Wrap Preview: Russia-Ukraine peace talks, US-Venezuela tensions, and the latest from Gaza
This week, international conflicts take center stage. The Russia-Ukraine peace talks face challenges, with Putin seen as the main hurdle. Meanwhile, tensions rise between the US and Venezuela, as military presence escalates. The situation in Gaza unfolds with a spotlight on the Rafah Crossing, raising humanitarian concerns. As global arms sales soar to record highs, Australia’s defense strategies are also examined. Join the hosts for a dynamic discussion on these pressing global issues.
Dec 4, 2025 • 13min
AUKUS floats back to the surface; And a salad to practice before Christmas
AUKUS is back in the spotlight as the Albanese government reviews the US report. A Melbourne childcare worker faces shocking new charges, adding to a serious case against him. The heat is on with extreme weather warnings across Australia. Meanwhile, the Socceroos await their World Cup draw, which could determine their fate. In lighter news, a man embarks on a unique journey on a yellow Vespa to attend every Ashes Test for mental health. Plus, discover a delicious recipe for eggplant tabouli with grilled peaches just in time for the holiday season!
