Conversations

Voyager frontman Danny Estrin on his unconventional path from heavy metal to law and on to the Eurovision grand final (R).Danny Estrin is one of the few Australians who knows what it’s like to perform at Eurovision. As frontman for the progressive synth metal band, Voyager, Danny commanded the stage in the 2023 competition, wind machine and all. His musical education started early, on a piano gifted by his babushka and freighted from the Soviet Union to his childhood home in Hamburg.After moving from Germany to Perth as a child, Danny turned to heavy metal as a way of finding belonging.Danny is also an immigration lawyer, but by night he quite literally lets his hair down, swapping his suit and tie for a keytar and microphone.Just months after Sarah first spoke to Danny in 2023, he received a stage four cancer diagnosis.Voyager had to cancel all the shows they'd booked after their Eurovision performance, as Danny started treatment, supported by his wife and two girls.While his cancer is terminal, Danny has been doing really well, defying everyone's expectations.This year he even got the band back together, and when he's not undergoing treatment, Danny is back on stage with Voyager.Further informationOriginally broadcast in August, 2023.Danny is currently working on a television show about people's love affairs with their cars.This episode of Conversations was produced by Tamar Cranswick.It explores music, heavy metal, Eurovision, migration stories, migration law, Russia, Germany, multiculturalism in Australia, classical music, how to have a career in music, family, fatherhood, love, marriage, father of daughters, cancer diagnosis, terminal cancer, cars, hot rods.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Kathleen Folbigg was locked up in prison for decades, wrongly convicted of the deaths of her four children. For years, her childhood friend Tracy was the only person who believed in her innocence. Now they are telling the story of their herculean fight to overturn Kathleen's conviction. (CW: loss of children, descriptions of life in prison)In 2003, Kathleen Folbigg was locked up in jail for decades, wrongly convicted of the deaths of her four children.One of the only people who believed in her innocence was her childhood friend Tracy.Together, they fought for her freedom for years before science and the law caught up with the case.Kathleen was pardoned and exonerated in 2023. Now Kathleen and Tracy have written down their story of their 20-year battle for justice, and they are telling their story together for the first time.Further informationInside Out is published by Penguin Help and support is always available. You can call Lifeline 24 hours a day, on 13 11 14.This episode of Conversations was produced by Nicola Harrison and presented by Sarah Kanowski. The Executive Producer was Nicola Harrison.It explores crime, punishment, criminal conviction, wrongful conviction, a fight for justice, criminal pardon, exoneration, science, DNA, Meadows Law, life in prison, daily life behind bars, flaws in the justice system, internalised misogyny in the law, unsympathetic mothers, never giving up, rallying around scientists and philanthropists, science catching up to a criminal case, the use of DNA to free someone, how a wrongful conviction can be overturned, powerful women, impressive women, tenacity, guts, new beginnings, hope for the future, how to survive the loss of a child, grief after the death of a child, grief after the death of children, post traumatic growth, PTSD, having to be strong, activism, Newcastle, Muswellbrook, famous criminal cases, women who are disliked, how to overcome trauma, moving on, death threats, social media hate, online pile-ons, online cruelty, moving on after trauma, healing after trauma, reinvention, midlife reinvention, new chapter, starting a new chapter of life.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

When you call for an ambulance these days, chances are the officers inside will save a life. But 40 years ago, 80 per cent of Alan Playford's passengers would either die on the way to the hospital, or on its doorstep. This is how he, and his colleagues, changed the face of paramedicine for the better.When Alan Playford first joined the New South Wales Ambulance Service in the 1970s, he would drive an ambulance on his own to all sorts of emergencies.With little equipment, and no support, Alan would simply have to bundle people into the back of the wagon and race to the hospital, where lifesaving machines and skills could give them a chance.In those early days, 80 per cent of Alan's patients would die either on the way to the hospital or on the doorstep.Alan and a group of other ambulance officers and doctors knew they could do better and set about modernising paramedicine.Under the leadership of Dr Bob Wright, they began innovative (and often terrifying) training to save more lives.Ambulance officers from Newcastle, including Alan, were among the first to be trained in these new "advanced life support" skills.So by the time the unprecedented Newcastle Earthqauke hit in 1989, Alan used his more than ten years' experience to save lives at the Newcastle Workers Club and on Beaumont Street.Alan went on to makeover the now beloved Westpac Rescue Helicopter, and took his skills to places like Rwanda and East Timor.He gained his nickname the 'shit magnet' for his habit of coincidentally being there to help out in emergencies, even when he's not on duty.Further informationThrough the Rubble is written by Alan Playford and Penny Keogh. It is published by Simon & Schuster.This episode of Conversations was produced by Meggie Morris and presented by Richard Fidler, executive producer is Nicola Harrison.It explores modern history, medical history, Ambulance Union, paramedics, hospital St Vincents, the Hunter, Norm Duffy, natural disasters, lifesaving innovation, medical innovation, ambos, Australian history, war, Rwanda, genocide, civil war, rescue chopper.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Ten years ago, Sydney-based artist HOSSEI took a step back from the art world to care for his sick mother. The more time they spent together, the more inspired HOSSEI became to create something especially for, about, and starring his mum.HOSSEI is an artist with a flair for colour, quirk and unbridled joy.But growing up the only son of a Persian-Australian family, it took years of hard work to convince his parents that being an artist was his destiny.HOSSEI's mother, Nahid, came around first, getting her sewing machine out to help her son make his incredible costumes.Then, it was HOSSEI's turn to support his mum, who needed a carer as her health deteriorated.As they spent more and more time together, HOSSEI was inspired to write a musical for, about and starring his cheeky, charismatic mother.The project is personal, but also has a political edge -- women in Iran aren't allowed to freely sing, dance or play music -- and so HOSSEI put his mother centre stage.Further informationRecently, HOSSEI was commissioned by Parramatta Artist Studios to update their uniform in connection with Wear it Purple Day.He has also been commissioned by the Sydney Opera House to develop a play space for the Centre for Creativity, which will be presented in January 2026.HOSSEI is currently touring his show ESSSENSSSE through regional NSW, at Bathurst Regional Gallery, Yarrila Arts and Museum in Coffs Harbour and later to Wagga Wagga Art Gallery.You can keep up to date with HOSSEI's exhibitions and news at his Instagram page.This episode of Conversations was produced by Meggie Morris and presented by Richard Fidler, executive producer is Nicola Harrison.It explores visual arts, performing arts, becoming an artist, how to be an artist, carers, caring for parents, the sandwich generation, Persia, Iran, womens rights, feminism, musical theatre, experimental art, Western Sydney, Sydney College of the Arts, university, TAFE, tertiary education, what to do after high school, graduation, Istanbul, migration, war, escape, family dynamics, sisters, kidnapping.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Hollywood actor Alan Alda has devoted his life to science, by taking his acting and communication skills off the screen and into the laboratory. Alan grew up in a show business family and spent his childhood touring with a burlesque show run by his parents.He eventually made a name for himself in showbiz, becoming well-known and much-loved for his performances in M.A.S.H. and The West Wing, as well as his roles in many Hollywood films.Alan is also famous for his love of science.He wrote Dear Albert for the stage, based on the love letters of Albert Einstein, which reveal Einstein as a beautifully passionate man.Alan has used his acting for the good of science by teaching communication skills to scientists so they might make their work better known and better understood.Further informationThis interview was first broadcast in December 2016.2025 update:  Alan has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, but he says he’s managing it well.  Alan is still working occasionally, most recently in the TV remake of his 1981 film ‘The Four Seasons’.You can read all about the Conversations origin story on the ABC News website.This episode of Conversations explores science, science communication, MASH, television, Hollywood, silver screen, acting, show biz families, family business, Vietnam, origin stories, memoir.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Growing up south of Sydney as one of six boys, midwifery wasn't the occupation Christian Wright expected for himself. At the age of nine, he experienced a vision that gave him a sense of his future in a life of service.As a qualified midwife, Christian spent time in the tiny town of Nhulunbuy, right on the tip of the Northern Territory.He worked with Yolŋu women of remote Arnhem Land to help them birth their babies.Further informationThis interview was first broadcast in March 2021.2025 update: Several years ago, Christian married his beloved, Caroline in Gove.On the first day of their honeymoon, as they were driving up the track, their troop carrier rolled.Christian's spine was broken, and he was airlifted to Royal Adelaide Hospital, where the doctors feared that he might not walk again.Christian went back to work within six months of the accident and has since worked in the NT and Papua New Guinea.He and Caroline now have a baby boy.Discover more about Christian's research on pregnancy and childbirth.Discover the Djakamirr program, training doulas to help Yolŋu women give birth on their own country.Christian also recommends the book Why Warriors Lie Down and Die by Richard Trudgen as a valuable resource on Indigenous Australia.You can hear Richard's full conversation with Nigel Newton on the ABC Listen App or wherever you get your podcasts.https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/conversations/publisher-nigel-newton-on-harnessing-the-harry-potter-effect/7788834You can read all about the Conversations origin story on the ABC News website.https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-03/richard-fidler-reflects-on-20-years-of-conversations/105495784

Music was always in Mike Chapman’s blood. As a boy, he collected bottles at the Brisbane showgrounds and traded them for money, which he saved to buy his first guitar. In his career he has penned electrifying numbers for The Sweet, The Knack and Pat Benatar.In the history of '70s and '80s rock music, he is one of the least known, but most influential people.As a young man, he moved to the UK, hoping to become a rock and roll star.In the US, Mike produced Blondie's classic album, Parallel Lines, which sold more than 20 million copies.Mike continues to write and produce music all over the world.Further information2025 update: a documentary about Mike is in production, called ‘Simply the Best: The Mike Chapman Story’.This episode was originally broadcast in July 2011.Songs edited for podcast.Sunday Girl performed by BlondieHanging on the Telephone performed by BlondieBallroom Blitz performed by The SweetStumblin' In performed by Suzi Quatro and Chris NormanMy Sharona performed by The KnackStandout story – Brenda BlethynHear Richard’s conversation with Brenda Blethyn.https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/conversations/stage-and-screen-actor-brenda-blethyn/7823938We have many people to thank for their work and support over the years, including our colleagues at ABC Local Radio, Radio National, and Radio Australia.Huge thanks to James O’Loughlin, Steve Cannane, Ann Jones, Ellen Fanning, David Bush, Cathy Van Extel, Scott Stephens, Steve Austin, Hamish Macdonald, Patrick Abboud, Wesley Enoch, Charlie King, Lisa Leong,  Sally Sara, Sana Qadar, Rudi Bremer, Tom Hall, Paul Penton, Robert Apolloni, Steve Fieldhouse, David White, Peter Scott, David Le May, Steven Tilley, Timothy Nicastri, Roi Huberman, Ellis Fitzpatrick, Emrys Cronin, Craig Tilmouth, Matt Hiley, Geoff Cavanagh, Michael Mason, Warwick Tiernan, James O’Brien, Judith Whelan, Jen Brennan, Cath Dwyer, Ben Latimer, Jess Radburn, Anthony Frangi, Justine Kelly, Monique Bowley, Eric George, Brigit Berger, Alison Barclay, Mateuse Pingol, Lilly Cooper, Jade Tully, Anna Priestland, Michaela Perske, Rebecca Levingston, Georgia Bateman, Renee Krosch, Joey Watson, Michael Dulaney, Jenna Koda, Cate Carrigan, Rebecca Armstrong, Rosa Ellen, Stef Collett, Nick King, Lisa Pellegrino, Sajarn Stow, Sinead Lee, Kim Lester, Evan Williams, Katie O’Neill, Eliza Kirsch, Tamar Cranswick, Rebecca McLaren, Michael Hartt, Fiona Purcell, Jen Leake, Michelle Ransom-Hughes, Alice Moldovan, Meggie Morris, Nicola Harrison, Kellie Riordan, Pam O’Brien and Carmel Rooney.  You can read all about the Conversations origin story on the ABC News website.https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-03/richard-fidler-reflects-on-20-years-of-conversations/105495784This episode of Conversations touches on music, songwriting, simply the best, rock 'n' roll, albums, music producer, Nambour, Sunshine Coast, recording studios, Debbie Harry and top ten hit songs.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Michael Ware witnessed some of the most violent battles in Baghdad; and was kidnapped three times.He was one of the few Western journalists to live full-time in Iraq during the war, embedded with U.S. forces, insurgents, and terrorists. Leaving the war zone and resettling in Brisbane, Michael has had to 'consciously attempt to reclaim his life'.Further informationOriginally broadcast July 2012.Content warning: This interview contains distressing content. Please listen with care.Michael released a film in 2015, Only The Dead, based on more than 250 hours of his personal footage from the front lines. If you need help, you can call Open Arms, 24-hour crisis support for Veterans and their families on 1800 011 046https://www.openarms.gov.au/Or you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14.https://www.lifeline.org.au/This episode was produced by Michelle Ransom-Hughes. The Executive Producer was Pam O'Brien. Carmel Rooney is the Executive Producer of the 20th Anniversary Collection.You can read all about the Conversations origin story on the ABC News website.https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-03/richard-fidler-reflects-on-20-years-of-conversations/105495784This episode of Conversations touches on Saddam Hussein, ISIS, IS, Islamic State, embedding, Australian Defence Force, ADF, Baghdad bad boys and Al-Qaida.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Donna Duggan, the Director of Maasai Wanderings and Nasikia Camps, shares her inspiring journey of love and loss in Tanzania. She recounts how a dream nanny job led her to Africa, where she fell for local man, Nas. Together, they built a safari business focused on community support. The conversation touches on the challenges of grief after Nas’s tragic plane crash, the intricacies of running a business, and the cultural richness of Tanzania. Donna also highlights heartfelt experiences in wildlife operations and the humor found in safari misunderstandings.

Charles Lomu's gentle and religious life in Tonga with his grandparents showed him the meaning of love. He was on track to being a young, in-demand Rugby League player when grief shook his family, and Charles turned down a dark path.He ended up in periodic detention in jail.Today, the power of barbering is a tool the youth worker uses to steer young men away from the dangerous path he experienced, and to teach them to be men.Further informationOriginally broadcast July 2022.This episode was produced by Alice Moldovan. The executive producer was Carmel Rooney.Standout Story – Colin HayHear Sarah’s conversation with Colin Hay:https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/conversations/colin-hay-rpt/10573618You can read all about the Conversations origin story on the ABC News website.https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-03/richard-fidler-reflects-on-20-years-of-conversations/105495784This episode of Conversations touches on pusiaki, barbering, jail, prison, youth detention, Tonga, grandparents, grandparenting, footy, youth work, familial care, periodic detention, barber and hairstyling.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.