Conversations

Hannah Diviney, a trailblazing writer, actress, and advocate for disability representation, made history as the first person with a disability to film a sex scene for Australian television. She shares her journey, detailing her early experiences with cerebral palsy and the importance of representation. Hannah went viral for confronting Lizzo and Beyonce about ableist language in their lyrics, sparking a conversation about accountability in pop culture. She also highlights her advocacy efforts, including a petition to Disney for a wheelchair-using princess, showcasing the power of storytelling in inclusion.

Tim Pocock, a Hollywood actor known for roles in Dance Academy and X-Men Origins: Wolverine, shares his harrowing journey growing up gay in the conservative environment of Opus Dei. He reveals how he was manipulated into gay conversion therapy by his devout mother. Tim candidly discusses the bullying he faced, the limitations of Opus Dei education on sexuality, and his struggles with identity and acceptance. After his mother's death, he finally embraced his true self, finding empowerment in acting and advocating for change in attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community.

In this engaging conversation, Ann Patchett, an acclaimed novelist and Nashville bookstore owner, shares her unique perspective shaped by her three father figures, each offering invaluable lessons in strength and acceptance. She reflects on a transformative year without shopping, revealing the deeper meanings behind materialism. With humor, she recounts her encounters with invisibility, explores the complexities of family dynamics, and highlights the power of friendships, all while weaving in her upcoming book about legacy and life’s profound stories.

Ben McIntyre, a British author and historian known for his expertise in espionage, dives into the harrowing 1980 Iranian Embassy siege in London. He shares astonishing details about the hostages and the complex motivations behind their captors. The personal transformation of PC Trevor Lock reveals the nuances of courage under fire. McIntyre also discusses the strategic maneuvers of the SAS and the psychological dynamics at play, including eerie phenomena like Stockholm Syndrome, offering an unforgettable glimpse into this dramatic historical moment.

Linda Javen, an expert on modern China and author of 'Bombard the Headquarters', delves into the dark legacy of Mao's Cultural Revolution. She discusses how this turbulent period from 1966 to 1976 deeply scarred Chinese society. Javen explores the eerie nostalgia among today’s youth for Maoist ideals amid current challenges like unemployment. The podcast highlights stories of betrayal, the rise of Red Guards, and the impact on individuals' lives. With insights into political propaganda and its resonance with Xi Jinping's leadership, Javen sheds light on China's complex past and present.

Liz Cameron was 18 years old when a stranger approached her in a book shop. It was the beginning of her induction into a cult, and it was an experience Liz barely survived.The process of brainwashing happened gradually, first came the love-bombing and the allure of finding a new purpose in life. Then came the isolation from friends and family, along with sleep deprivation, overwork and sexual manipulation.Liz was one of the many women chosen to become a kind of bride for the leader of an infamous Korean religious group.It wasn’t until she became critically ill, that her family were able to get the help she needed to escape and to begin the process of being deprogrammed.Liz Cameron’s memoir is called Cult Bride: How I was brainwashed and how I broke free.Find out more about the Conversations Live National Tour on the ABC website.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.Conversations' Executive Producer is Nicola Harrison. This episode was produced by Jennifer Leake.This episode of Conversations touches on cults, brainwashing, religious groups, eating disorders, sexual manipulation, deprogramming, sexual assault, sleep deprivation, family, recovery, healing, trauma, biography, psychology, Providence, JMS, Jesus Morning Star, Pastor Joshua, Jung Myung-seok.

Kerstin Pilz, author of 'Loving My Lying, Dying, Cheating Husband', shares her heart-wrenching journey of discovering her husband’s infidelity while he battled terminal cancer. She reflects on the duality of love and betrayal, navigating the complexities of her emotions as she faced both grief and forgiveness. Kerstin delves into the challenges of caring for a partner with a narcissistic personality amid illness, exploring themes of trust, sacrifice, and personal growth throughout her captivating story.

Katia Ariel, author of 'Ferryman: The Life and Deathwork of Ephraim Finch', dives into the profound legacy of Ephraim Finch, a revered figure in the Melbourne Jewish community, known for his compassionate guidance through grief. She explores Ephraim’s transformative journey from Geoffrey William to a master of burial rituals, touching on the deep emotional support he offers families in mourning. Katia also shares insights on the cultural significance of Jewish mourning traditions, including shiva and community rituals, showcasing how they facilitate healing and connection.

Lorimer Moseley, a neuroscientist at the University of South Australia, specializes in the fascinating but perplexing nature of pain. He discusses how pain isn't solely tied to physical injuries, revealing the mind's role in chronic pain. Lorimer shares how his own struggles with pain post-injury led him to explore its neuroscience. The conversation dives into the subjective aspects of pain, personal narratives, and the societal stigma surrounding chronic conditions, ultimately advocating for a deeper understanding to improve pain management.

Peter Greste, a renowned journalist and former Al Jazeera correspondent, recounts his harrowing experience of being imprisoned in Cairo for 400 days. He discusses the psychological toll of solitary confinement and the struggle to adapt to life after his release. Greste shares insights on the resilience of individuals in conflict zones and the vital importance of family support during his ordeal. He reflects on the deep emotional wounds of captivity, press freedom, and the relentless pursuit of truth amid political unrest.