Conversations cover image

Conversations

Latest episodes

undefined
Jan 30, 2025 • 53min

The spy who kept secrets for the self-made man

Belinda Probert, author of "Bill's Secrets," uncovers the hidden past of her father, a decorated English war hero. The conversation reveals shocking family secrets about his identity as Roy and his life as a spy for British intelligence post-war. Belinda shares poignant memories of her complex relationship with him and how World War II shaped their family dynamics. They explore themes of classism, identity, and the quiet echoes of war, painting a vivid picture of resilience and transformation in the face of obscured legacies.
undefined
Jan 29, 2025 • 50min

Dressing drag queens in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

Tim Chappel, an Oscar-winning costume designer, shares his fascinating journey from a military childhood to the glitzy world of fashion. He recounts discovering French Vogue at 14, which shifted his focus from botany to costume design. Chappel discusses his early days crafting drag queen outfits and the challenges of creating iconic costumes for 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.' He reflects on the film's cultural impact on LGBTQ rights and shares memorable moments from the Oscars, revealing how costumes enhance storytelling and confidence.
undefined
Jan 28, 2025 • 53min

Singing as 'sweet relief' — Meg Washington on stuttering, spirituality and song

Meg Washington, an award-winning Australian singer-songwriter, shares her inspiring journey of overcoming a childhood stutter. She reveals how singing transformed from a therapy into a thrilling form of expression. After opening up about her stutter in a TEDx Talk, she discovered new opportunities, such as voicing Calypso in 'Bluey'. Meg also discusses her creative partnership with her husband in adapting Paul Kelly's 'How To Make Gravy' into a film, and the profound role music has played in her life, community, and personal liberation.
undefined
Jan 24, 2025 • 53min

Classic: From Yugoslavia to Australia — Jelena Dokic on tennis and the truth

Jelena Dokic, a renowned tennis champion and author, shares her profound journey from being a young refugee to a celebrated athlete. She discusses the dark realities of her childhood, including the abuse she faced from her father during her rise to fame. The conversation delves into confronting body shaming and the challenges of disordered eating under public scrutiny. Jelena also reflects on her growth towards self-acceptance and healing, revealing how past traumas shaped her identity and aspirations in both tennis and life.
undefined
Jan 23, 2025 • 51min

How a teen father used the local skate park to change the world

Jayden Sheridan, a young father from regional Victoria, transformed his passion for skateboarding into a powerful community initiative called Gnarly Neighbours. He shares how his difficult upbringing, marked by homelessness and violence, fueled his desire for a better life for his son. They discuss the healing power of skate parks and the importance of mentorship for troubled youth. Jayden emphasizes how skateboarding became a refuge, fostering connection and resilience in his community while helping kids find their own paths amidst adversity.
undefined
Jan 22, 2025 • 54min

43 carolling magpies, CPR on a blue tongue lizard and Claire's animal ambulance

Claire Smith, the 2025 Queensland Local Hero and founder of the state’s first kangaroo hospital, shares her incredible journey from the UK to wildlife rescue in Australia. She recalls her first encounter with the carolling magpie that ignited her passion. Claire discusses the challenges of nighttime rescues, the physiological stress of injured kangaroos, and her experiences caring for a circus of baby animals, including 43 birds in her garage. Her dedication shines through as she highlights the importance of a 24-hour wildlife rescue service.
undefined
Jan 21, 2025 • 53min

Bite Club: Surviving a shark attack, and the aftermath

Dave Pearson, founder of Bite Club, survived a harrowing shark attack in 2011 while surfing. He shares his gripping story of survival and the unexpected mental health challenges that followed. The conversation dives into the emotional journey of recovery, the importance of community support, and the haunting aftermath of trauma. Dave emphasizes resilience, recounts vivid memories of childhood surfing, and discusses how he turned his experience into a support network for fellow survivors, highlighting the profound benefits of sharing and healing together.
undefined
Jan 20, 2025 • 50min

Voicing velociraptors and capturing the dawn chorus

Doug Quin, a world-renowned sound designer and naturalist known for his work on Jurassic Park 3, shares his unique experiences in soundscapes. He discusses crafting the iconic velociraptor sounds using a blend of animal vocalizations. Doug reflects on his childhood in wartime Algeria, illustrating how those experiences shaped his love for nature. He recounts thrilling wildlife encounters, the enchanting dawn chorus of Tasmania, and the importance of silence, showcasing the magical connections between sound, memory, and our natural world.
undefined
Jan 17, 2025 • 53min

Sarah's Most Memorable Guests — Shanelle Dawson

Shanelle Dawson, daughter of Chris and Lynette Dawson and author of "My Mother's Eyes," shares her powerful journey after her father's conviction for her mother's murder. She discusses growing up believing her mother had abandoned her and reflects on family secrets and the trauma caused by domestic violence. Shanelle reveals how a hit true crime podcast became a catalyst for justice and healing. Her story emphasizes resilience as she navigates grief, confronts her father's actions, and carves out a new life for herself and her daughter.
undefined
Jan 16, 2025 • 51min

Sarah's Most Memorable Guests — Tony Bull

Tony Bull, a former inmate with over three decades in and out of jail, shares his transformative journey from a life of crime to personal redemption. He found his voice through the Spartan Debating Club in Risdon Prison, which helped him gain respect and communication skills. Highlighting moments of humor and growth, Tony recounts a harrowing experience in Boggo Road prison and a life-changing revelation while working on a fishing trawler. His bond with his dog, Princess, further symbolizes his path towards a hopeful future.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode