The Call Sheet: Travel Guides' Mel Maclean on the reality of reality TV

Gogglebox, Travel Guides, Parental Guidance, The Assembly... if you're into TV, you've probably seen Mel Maclean's work. She’s the go-to producer for some of Australia's most-watched reality and factual shows. In this chat, Mel shares her journey from a cattle farm to the small screen, why she thinks this genre is having such a moment, how ordinary Australians become household names, and the deep sense of responsibility she feels when telling their stories. You can take part in our 2025 audience survey here Want more News Club in your life? We've got you... ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to our News Club newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch all our interviews ⁠⁠⁠⁠on Youtube ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@The Squiz ⁠⁠⁠⁠ PS: If you love what we do, the best way to support us is by clicking ‘follow’ on Apple or Spotify. A huge thanks to those who drop us a 5-star review, or even better - spread the word about News Club with your friends, family, colleagues... even your barista. Host: Bryce Corbett Senior Producer: Annelise Taylor Editors: Charlie Devenport and Ryan Pemberton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices