Conversations
ABC listen
Conversations draws you deeper into the life story of someone you may have heard about, but never met. Journey into their world, joining them on epic adventures to unfamiliar places, back in time to wild moments of history, and into their deepest memories, to be moved by personal stories of resilience and redemption.
Hosted by Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski, Conversations is the ABC's most popular long-form interview program. Every day we explore the vast tapestry of human experience, weaving together narratives from history, science, art, and personal storytelling.
Conversations Live is coming to the stage! Join Sarah Kanowski and Richard Fidler for an unmissable night of unforgettable stories, behind-the-scenes secrets, and surprise guests. Australia’s most-loved podcast — live, up close, and in the moment. Find out more at the Conversations website.
Hosted by Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski, Conversations is the ABC's most popular long-form interview program. Every day we explore the vast tapestry of human experience, weaving together narratives from history, science, art, and personal storytelling.
Conversations Live is coming to the stage! Join Sarah Kanowski and Richard Fidler for an unmissable night of unforgettable stories, behind-the-scenes secrets, and surprise guests. Australia’s most-loved podcast — live, up close, and in the moment. Find out more at the Conversations website.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 23, 2024 • 51min
Richard's Most Memorable Guests — Shaun Christie David
Shaun Christie David, founder of Colombo Social, shares his transformative journey from finance to social entrepreneurship. He discusses the rich culinary heritage of Sri Lanka, highlighting cherished family recipes like chicken biryani and 48-hour mud crab curry. Shaun reflects on the impact of immigration and cultural identity, and the importance of food in building community. He emphasizes redefining success as personal fulfillment through meaningful work, illustrating how his restaurant empowers refugees while celebrating Sri Lankan flavors.
Dec 22, 2024 • 52min
Richard's Most Memorable Conversations — Magda Szubanski
Magda Szubanski, an award-winning Australian actress and comedian beloved for her role in Kath & Kim, discusses her compelling journey of self-discovery shaped by her father's secretive past as a wartime assassin. She reflects on the challenges of migration from Britain to Australia, childhood anxiety, and identity transition. Magda also shares poignant insights on the intertwined themes of family dynamics, comedy, and trauma, culminating in a heartfelt exploration of acceptance and connection to her Polish roots.
Dec 21, 2024 • 53min
Best of 2024 — Bhawani O'Brien
In this enlightening conversation, Bhawani O'Brien, a former GP turned voluntary assisted dying practitioner in Western Australia, shares her transformative journey. Drawing from her Sri Lankan heritage and the loss of her father, she reflects on how grief shaped her perspective on death and healthcare. Bhawani discusses the emotional complexities of helping over a hundred individuals in their final moments, the ethical implications of assisted dying, and the need for open conversations about end-of-life choices, ultimately celebrating the profound connections forged in life’s last moments.
Dec 19, 2024 • 53min
Best of 2024 — Ruth Shaw
Ruth Shaw, the owner of three tiny bookshops in New Zealand, shares her adventurous life in this conversation. She recounts thrilling tales of sailing, surviving pirate attacks, and her unconventional childhood filled with family chaos. Ruth reflects on deep personal struggles, including trauma and resilience, and a heartwarming reunion with her long-lost son that highlights the power of love. She also discusses her journey into bookshop entrepreneurship, bringing a vibrant community space to life, and the enduring value of literature in shaping her identity.
Dec 18, 2024 • 52min
Best of 2024 — Ken Wyatt
Ken Wyatt, the first Indigenous Australian Minister for Indigenous Affairs, shares his remarkable journey from a remote settlement to political prominence. He reflects on the challenges of growing up in the now-defunct railway camp of Nannine, offering vivid anecdotes of his rugged childhood. Ken discusses his transition into politics, motivated by personal experiences and a desire for inclusivity. He emphasizes the importance of education and mentorship, while also exploring the significance of representing his Indigenous heritage in Parliament and advocating for reconciliation.
Dec 17, 2024 • 52min
Best of 2024 — Kasey Chambers
Kasey Chambers, an acclaimed Australian country music singer-songwriter, shares her heartfelt journey from a nomadic childhood filled with music to her rise in the industry. She reflects on her experiences traveling the Nullarbor, the freedom of growing up in a family that valued creativity, and the emotional depth of her hit song 'Not Pretty Enough.' Kasey also discusses the lessons of setting boundaries in relationships and how her divorce led to personal growth and harmony through songwriting.
Dec 16, 2024 • 53min
Best of 2024 — Candice Fox
Candice Fox, an award-winning crime writer known for her immersive storytelling, also dedicates her time to wildlife rescue in Sydney. In this engaging discussion, she shares her chaotic yet heartwarming adventures with her daughter as they rescue injured animals. Candice dives into the humorous challenges of researching her latest book about New York firefighters, revealing the camaraderie and complexities within firehouses. With tales that blend humor and compassion, she reflects on motherhood, rescue missions, and the emotional toll of her creative process.
Dec 15, 2024 • 0sec
Best of 2024 — Gideon Haigh
In this heartfelt discussion, Gideon Haigh, a prolific author known for his memoir "My Brother Jaz," shares the poignant story of his brother's tragic death at just 17. He reflects on the unique bond of brotherhood, contrasting their personalities and how grief has shaped his life. Gideon reveals the emotional intricacies of coping with loss, including his struggles with guilt and the paradox of work as a distraction from pain. Through his writing process, he uncovers the therapeutic power of storytelling, allowing him to finally confront his past.
Dec 14, 2024 • 53min
Best of 2024 — Pauline McGrath
In a heartfelt conversation, Pauline McGrath, a genetic counselor, shares her poignant journey as she navigates the impact of her husband David's terminal brain tumor diagnosis. She discusses the complex decision-making surrounding voluntary assisted dying laws in Queensland, revealing the emotional challenges and the empowerment that came from their experience. Pauline reflects on grief, love, and the promise she made to David to advocate for VAD, offering deep insights into loss and resilience through their family's journey.
Dec 12, 2024 • 52min
Best of 2024 — Rafael Bonachela
Rafael Bonachela, a celebrated Spanish choreographer known for his collaborations with Kylie Minogue and leadership at the Sydney Dance Company, shares his remarkable journey shaped by strict upbringing and a passion for dance. He discusses the cultural transformation in Spain's arts scene, his struggle against familial expectations, and the joy of pursuing a career in contemporary dance. Rafael reflects on adventurous artistic experimentation, including a vulnerable performance with naked dancers, highlighting the power of connection through art and personal expression.
