Big Small Talk

MIK MADE

News

Big Small Talk: 5 PM Tuesdays So you want to know what’s happening in parliament, but you also want to know the latest in pop culture? Good, as you should. From the front page to your newsfeeds, no story is too serious, stale, funny or frivolous. Because, if you haven’t realised, loving pop culture doesn’t mean you don’t understand politics. Knowing all your shit? That’s hot. New Episodes 5pm Tuesday. Small Talk: 6 AM Thursdays It might not be tangible news but each week there’s something in the cultural zeitgeist that gets us all talking. We want to unpack these frivolous conversations, from new trends to relationship theories to life advice. In an age of never-ending small talk, we want to examine how these collective thoughts affect the way we see the world. We may even reach out to a few friends and experts to weigh in. Big Talk: Wednesday 6 AM - Last Two Weeks of Every Month Over the past few decades, there have been news headlines so shocking that we still hear and feel their impact, such as Roe V Wade, Monica Lewinsky, Epstein, Mabo and Hillsong. Don’t you think it’s about time you knew all the important and salacious details about the real stories that have happened that shaped our world today? Come on, I know you’re curious.

Episodes

Bondi Update, Timothy Chalamet & Rob Reiner

Last episode for the year! Thank you so much for all your support this year, excited to see you in 2026! In this episode we give an update on what's unfolded in the news since the devastating terrorist attack in Bondi. We deep dive into the Sean Combs documentary produced by 50 Cent and Sean's alleged involvement in both Tupac and Biggie's death. We discuss TIME's decision to make their person of the year the 'architects of AI'. For comic relief, we replay a few of Timothy Chalamet's funny interviews and why rumours are swirling he's secretly a rapper. Finally, the tragedy of Rob and Michelle Reiners death. Big Small Talk Instagram Sarah-Jane's Instagram Hannah's Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1h 3min•Dec 22, 2025

Bondi Shooting, Misinformation & Support For Jewish Community

In light of the horrific and senseless attack in Bondi on Sunday - an act of violence aimed at members of the Jewish community gathering to mark the first day of Hanukkah - it didn’t feel right to talk about anything else. In this episode, we lay out the information that is currently known about the attack, the victims, and the shooters, the heroic efforts of Ahmed el Ahmed, alongside the global response and the rapid spread of misinformation in the days since. We discuss what the Albanese government has said and promised in response, the deeply concerning rise of antisemitism, and why that cannot - and must not - fuel further rising Antisemitism or Islamophobia. Our hearts are with the lives lost, those injured and everyone witnessing and processing this distressing incident. Take care of yourselves and your loved ones. Sign up to donate blood at Life Blood Life line: 13 11 14 Big Small Talk Instagram Sarah-Jane's Instagram Hannah's Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

31min•Dec 16, 2025

Miley Cyrus Engaged, Social Media Ban & Netflix Merger

Our first episode with LISTNR and in the new studios with new artwork! Thank you to everyone for all your support so far, we're so excited for what's to come. In this episode we discuss the social media ban for under 16s comes into effect tomorrow, December 10th. Miley Cyrus' engagement to drummer Maxx Morando, as well as the posts Firerose has made recently calling out Billy Ray Cyrus. Netflix is acquiring Warner Bros in a 108 billion dollar deal, causing Paramount to also make their own bid for Warner only this morning. Sydney Sweeney has switched PR tactics, now making a concession on her American Eagle ad controversy in exclusive interview with People magazine. Bruce Lehrmann's appeal been rejected. Sabrina Carpenter has called out the White House for posting ICE videos to her song. Plus, a listener question about if Alix Earle has broken up with NFL man. Big Small Talk Instagram Sarah-Jane's Instagram Hannah's Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1h 1min•Dec 9, 2025

SMALL TALK: What Did We Get Right -and Wrong -This Year?

This week on Small Talk, Hannah is back in the guest seat to have one of our favourite yearly yaps: the biggest lessons 2026 handed us. From the (mostly) work-related wake-up calls we didn’t see coming, to friendship lessons to relationship realisations, we each bring the reflections that have been sitting front of mind as the year wraps. And… after years of recording at the studios Sarah worked at since she was 22, we’re officially wrapping up there, which means a very exciting announcement is coming (on socials!)

39min•Nov 26, 2025

BIG TALK: The Whitlam Dismissal PART TWO

In Part Two, we hit the breaking point of 1975: the Senate blocks supply, the government runs out of money, and the Governor-General makes the most dramatic intervention in Australian political history. We unpack Whitlam’s iconic dismissal speech, what the Palace Letters later revealed about the Palace’s involvement, and why Cold War tension fuelled long-running rumours of CIA interference.

33min•Nov 25, 2025

Trump’s “Piggy” Insult, UN Gaza Plan, Colleen Hoover Regret

This week we cover Donald Trump’s chaotic meet-and-greet energy with Zohran Mamdani, the “piggy” moment and the Epstein Files to be released. We then cover the ARIA awards and Olivia Dean calling out Ticketmaster. We discuss the UN approving Trump’s plan for Gaza and how Colleen Hoover has admitted she’s embarrassed to have written It Ends With Us. As well as the Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini breakup and Mary Fowler speaking out about discrimination she has faced.

55min•Nov 25, 2025

SMALL TALK: Where Are The Male Role Models? With Jack Toohey

This week, Sarah sits down with Jack Toohey, the content creator behind THAT viral housing-crisis video, author of Better Things Are Possible, and creative production lead at Teach Us Consent. It’s a rare Small Talk moment: a man in the guest chair. So Sarah dives straight in. They unpack why men react so defensively to the word “privilege,” what Jack is actually seeing in his algorithm, and how fitness and diet culture have become unexpected gateways into identity and politics for young men. They also dissect the pressure to be a “provider,” and why the real key to better conversations might be systems literacy. Jack opens up about modern masculinity and the world men are navigating today.

59min•Nov 19, 2025

BIG TALK: The Whitlam Dismissal PART ONE

With the 50-year anniversary of the Whitlam era having just passed, we’re diving into why this moment still has everyone talking. In part one, we peel back the story of the man who tried to reshape Australia faster than the country could catch its breath and how that boldness created one of the most fascinating political rollercoasters we’ve ever had. From Medibank to no-fault divorce, free uni to ending conscription, Whitlam arrives in 1972 and immediately begins rewriting the national script. But the pace, the ambition, and the battles with a hostile Senate set the stage for a showdown no one could have predicted. This episode takes you from his historic 1972 win, through the reforms, all the way to the surprising snap election just 17 months later.

44min•Nov 18, 2025

Epstein's Emails, Wicked: For Good & Net Zero

20,000 emails have been released from Epstein’s estate - including one that indicates Vladimir Putin may have photos of Donald Trump having oral sex with Bill Clinton. Ryan Murphy's new legal drama starring Kim Kardashian, Naomi Watts, Glenn Close and Sarah Paulson has been panned by critics, many giving 0 stars. The Liberal party scraps Net Zero. The Wicked: For Good press tour and premieres are underway, we recap the headlines so far. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan is introducing sweeping criminal law reforms that could see children as young as 14 sentenced to adult life sentence.

54min•Nov 18, 2025

SMALL TALK: Who Helps Run the World (But Never Gets the Credit)? With Phoebe Saintalin

This week we explore the power behind the power - the hidden figures quietly pulling the strings in the rooms where world leaders make history (but don't call them puppeteers though… they don’t love that). This week, I’m joined by Phoebe Saintalin Stocks, founder of Missing Perspectives and author of the brilliant new book The Right Hand. What makes this book so extraordinary is that Phoebe sat down with the real chiefs of staff to some of the most influential leaders on the planet - from Jacinda Ardern, Kamala Harris and John Howard to Nelson Mandela, Tony Blair and Julia Gillard. In our chat, Phoebe opens up about her own career journey and how she learned just how human our world leaders really are. Perfect content for our fellow political nerds… or if you peaked early as your Primary School Vice Captain.

43min•Nov 12, 2025

Sydney Sweeney GQ, Zohran Win & Children's Skincare

Sydney Sweeney Has Spoken Out About Her Controversial American Eagle Jeans Ad. Zohran Mamdani has won the race to be mayor of NYC. Actress Shay Mitchell Launches ‘Rini’, A Skincare Company for Small Children. Victoria’s Inquiry into women’s pain has confirmed what we already know, the health system was built around men. The 2026 Grammy Nominations are in, here are the best surprises and shocking snubs. Tasmania compensates those convicted under homophobic laws.

52min•Nov 11, 2025

SMALL TALK: Should We Want Celebrities Political Opinions? With Shit You Should Care About

Today I am joined by Lucy Blakiston, owner of the OG Instagram news account, Shit You Should Care About, which now has over 3.4 Million followers (& I can almost bet you've shared one of their tiles on your story before). In this episode we not only talk about the origins of content creating, online performance activism and the conflicting feelings of sometimes being the only news source for people - but we decide to tackle a big question that I have been desperately wanting to cover on Small Talk for a while now, should we expect celebrities to speak on politics?? It's a question that both Lucy and I have gone back and forth on many times over the years (and in this episode) and we are so excited to hear your thoughts.

50min•Nov 5, 2025

Julia Fox, Zohran Mamdani & Dean Lewis

Julia Fox has found herself in the middle of a heated online debate over her Halloween costume choice. It’s time for some hope, the election for NYC Mayor is upon us - and let’s hold hands in a circle for Zohran. Australian singer Dean Lewis has issued an apology following multiple sexual misconduct allegations. Victoria has become the first Australian jurisdiction to pass a formal treaty with Indigenous Traditional Owners. On a hill that seems bizarre to die on, Podcaster and Creator Hallie Batchelor is standing by her thesis that using condoms are cringey. It's being reported that Millie Bobby Brown has reported David Harbour for bullying on the set of Stranger Things.

48min•Nov 4, 2025

SMALL TALK: What Are The Rules For Dating This Summer? With Chantelle Otten

We are joined today by the incredible sexologist, content creator and Bumble's very own dating expert, Chantelle Otten! In this episode we chat through a few tips and tricks for those keen on dipping their toes back in the dating scene this summer. From being silly, setting up profiles to picking your pre-date playlist.

44min•Oct 29, 2025

BIG TALK: The Petrov Affair PART TWO

In part two of our deep dive into the Petrov Affair, we unpack the political chaos that followed one of Australia’s biggest Cold War scandals. The defection of a Soviet spy didn’t just make headlines, it reshaped an election, launched a Royal Commission, and sent the Labor Party spiralling into accusations of communism. We look at how the opposition leader’s desperate attempt to clear his name became a full-blown witch hunt, how fear shaped the nation’s politics, and what life looked like for the Petrov's after the dust settled, trying to then live quietly in Australia.

27min•Oct 28, 2025

Lily Allen New Album, Louvre Heist & ADF Class Action

Lily Allen obliterates her ex husband, actor David Harbour, in her new album called West End Girl. Two suspects have been arrested over the Louvre Heist, spoiling the limited fun we have available in these dark times. Ex Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and pop star Katy Perry are confirmed to be dating. A Melbourne based content creator has died after having a home birth. Women are launching a class action lawsuit against the Commonwealth for sexual harassment, assault and discrimination experienced in the Australian Defence Force.

48min•Oct 28, 2025

SMALL TALK: Why Aren't We Talking About Menopause? With Myf Warhurst

You might know Myf Warhurst from Spicks and Specks, her years of Radio or as the voice of Aunt Trixie and Indy’s mum on Bluey - but today, we’re diving into a topic that’s rarely talked about, even though it affects half the population: menopause. It’s something every woman will go through, yet most of us know next to nothing about it until it’s already happening. People write into our Q Box saying they have to do so much research just to know what to even ask their GP - and that’s wild. In this episode, we chat with Myf about what she learned making her documentary 'The Truth About Menopause', how the conversation is finally shifting, and why bringing menopause out of the shadows isn’t just important for women but is something everyone should be part of. Whether you’re going through it, about to, or know someone who will, this is a must-listen. Listen to Myf's podcast Watch 'The Truth About MenoPause' on ABC i-View

45min•Oct 22, 2025

BIG TALK: The Petrov Affair PART ONE

In this Big Talk, we are very excited to be unpacking the world of spies during the Cold War. The Cold War was one nerve-wracking periods in modern history. So in part one, we explore how its paranoia, politics, and power struggles impacted the whole world, but specifically, Australia. We’ll look at how this global rivalry between the Western and Eastern nations sparked the creation of ASIO and how everyday fears of communist infiltration seeped into our politics, our media, and the public’s imagination. But at the centre of this Cold War storm was a truly wild Australian story: the Petrovs. In this episode we begin to tell the story of Vladimir and Evdokia Petrov, Soviet diplomats living a quiet life in Canberra - until it was revealed they were actually Soviet spies leaking information back to the USSR.

31min•Oct 21, 2025

Kim Kardashian, Prince Andrew & Trump Hates Rudd

Albanese finally gets his meeting with Donald Trump. Trump insults Kevin Rudd while he sat across from him at the table. Also in Aus Pol this week, Barnaby Joyce defecting to One Nation? Kim Kardashian Is One Of The Latest Celebs On The Call Her Daddy Podcast, Streamed Well Over A Million Times. Prince Andrew has given up his royal titles, and is now being investigated bt the London Metropolitan Police. Victoria Secret Fashion Show is back for 2025. Candace Owens Australian visa case has gone to the High Court, and she lost.

51min•Oct 21, 2025

SMALL TALK: Why Do We Yearn So Much For Girlhood? With Sophie Gilbert

This week we’re joined by Sophie Gilbert — writer, critic for The Atlantic, Pulitzer Prize finalist, and author of Girl on Girl. We dive into the rise of “girlhood” as an online identity — why it resonated so deeply, how it became a brand, and what it says about how women are seen (and see themselves). From the internet’s obsession with returning to girlhood to our protectiveness around Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter’s star power, and the lasting imprint of 90s and 2000s pop culture, we unpack how nostalgia, femininity, hyper sexualisation and marketing collided to shape a generation. Sophie Gilbert appears in Sydney on 16 October presented by Sydney Writers Festival, in Canberra on 17 October presented by Canberra Writers Festival and in Melbourne at The Wheeler Centre on Tuesday 21 October.

52min•Oct 15, 2025

1 / 10

Episodes

Menu

Episodes

Episodes