Afternoons with Brent Bultitude

Welcome back to our weekly pet segment. Today, we’re tackling a topic that every prospective and current pet owner needs to hear, but many often avoid: the true cost of owning a pet. We’re joined by our resident vet, Andrew Cornwell, owner of the Cardiff and Cameron Park Veterinary Hospitals, to help us break down the "pet budget." Whether you’re looking at a $50 shelter cat or a $5,000 designer dog, the purchase price is just the tip of the iceberg. Owning a pet is a 10-to-15-year financial commitment. While cats are generally more budget-friendly, both species come with significant "hidden" costs—from breed-specific grooming to the "wildcard" of emergency surgery. With lifetime costs for some dogs reaching up to $55,000, we're looking at how to budget responsibly so our best friends get the care they deserve.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight at 7:30, Treasurer Jim Chalmers will hand down the 2026–27 Federal Budget, and it is shaping up to be a historic pivot for the Australian economy. Billed as a "reform budget," the government is looking to bridge the gap between struggling first-home buyers and established property investors. Joining us for a final look at the likely winners and losers is Sally Tindall, Data Insights Director at Canstar. Sally, the Treasurer is using words like "structural change" and "fairness"—is this officially the end of the tax-break era for Aussie investors?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cost of living is hitting a new peak, but the real crisis is brewing behind the factory doors. This week, we dive into the "perfect storm" threatening our supermarkets. From shipping lanes in the Middle East collapsing by 90% to energy costs surging over 40% in just 30 days, our food security is at a breaking point. We’re joined by Scott McGrath from the Australian Food and Grocery Council to discuss why manufacturers can no longer "swallow" these costs and what this means for the thousands of Aussies employed in regional manufacturing hubs. If you think it's just about the price of milk, think again—this is about the viability of the entire Australian pantry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, the cosmos is calling for a balance between grounded stillness and social spark. We are joined by our resident astrologer, Sue Dunwoody, to guide us through a significant shift in the stars. From a nourishing New Moon in Taurus to Mercury finding its home in Gemini, it is a week of two halves: finding your roots and then spreading your wings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are looking up and moving fast as we dive into the new "Billionaire Space Race," the political tug-of-war in Washington, and the brewing superpower rivalry far above our heads. Joining us to make sense of the stars is our resident astronomer and space expert, David Reneke. David has been a leading voice in Australian space news for over 50 years, and there is no one better to help us understand why the Moon is suddenly the busiest—and most contested—place in the solar system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent sits down with Mark Latham MLC to dissect a massive week in Australian politics. From national security and the cost of living to a by-election that is turning traditional party lines upside down, nothing is off the table. The ISIS Brides: Following recent arrests and charges, we ask the hard question: is this just the tip of the iceberg? Are more charges looming for those who returned? Economic Crosshairs: With whispers of changes to Capital Gains Tax and Negative Gearing, we examine the potential ripple effects on an already fragile housing market and the broader economy. Fueling PNG: As Australia struggles with its own domestic pressures, is now the right time to be subsidizing fuel for Papua New Guinea? The RBA vs. Canberra: Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock hasn’t held back, suggesting government spending is fueling the interest rate fire. We break down the tension between the bank and the boardroom. The Farrer By-election: It’s the race everyone is watching. As the seat looks to replace Sussan Ley, the One Nation candidate has made waves by breaking ranks with the party line. Is this a strategic move or a campaign in chaos? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent is back to break down the biggest gear releases of the week! Joining him is Australia’s premier tech expert, Stephen Fenech from TechGuide.com.au. This week, the duo dives into the future of home entertainment and domestic automation. First up, we explore the new Bose Lifestyle Collection, designed to create a seamless, high-fidelity audio web throughout your entire home. If you’re looking to go big—and we mean really big—Stephen gives us the lowdown on the Hisense XR10 Flagship Projector, the tech that’s finally making the "cinema at home" dream a reality. Plus, we tackle the ultimate chore-killer: the Dyson SpotScrub AI. Is this the robot vacuum that finally masters the corners? Brent and Stephen discuss whether Dyson’s latest AI-powered mop and vacuum combo lives up to the massive hype.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Morrison Brief, Brent sits down with Jason Morrison to tackle three of the biggest headlines hitting the national stage. From security high-alerts to multi-billion dollar budget black holes, it is a deep dive into the stories that are actually costing Australians. ISIS-Linked Returns: As mothers and children land in Australia, the security risk is only half the story. If the mothers are jailed, who picks up the bill for long-term care and de-radicalization? The Inland Rail Trainwreck: How did a freight project go from an $8 billion vision to a $45 billion nightmare? With sections now frozen, has this officially become Australia's biggest "white elephant"? The Political "Schoolyard": From campaign events ending in chaos to scuffles involving senators—what happened to professionalism in Canberra? Join us for a breakdown of the facts that the official talking points might be missing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heart disease claims an Australian life every 90 minutes, yet most screening tools still rely on broad population averages. Today, we are joined by veteran Sydney cardiologist Dr Stephen Fenton, author of The 5CH Lifestyle. With over 40 years of experience, Dr Fenton is challenging traditional methods, arguing that earlier, more individualized testing—like coronary calcium scans—is the key to stopping heart attacks before they happen. Dr Fenton’s message is clear: don't just manage your risk—prevent the crisis. If you are concerned about your heart health or family history, please talk to your doctor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If your kitchen inspiration has been lacking, we have great news: our favorite foodie is back! After a short break, Bree returns and is kicking things off with the ultimate comfort food. We are talking juicy, herb-packed homemade meatballs simmering in a rich "liquid gold" tomato sauce. Whether you are a pasta lover or a sub-sandwich fan, Bree shares the pro tips to level up your dinner game and make your kitchen feel like a warm hug. Recipe: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1SQDcYTMdj/?mibextid=wwXIfrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Dolly Parton hanging up the 5-inch heels for good? This week, we have a massive show filled with music royalty, fashion snubs, and talking sheep. We dive into the heartbreak behind Dolly’s cancelled Vegas residency and decode the secret messages hidden in Delta Goodrem’s Eurovision anthem. Plus, we’re finally righting the wrongs of the ARIA Hall of Fame—why did it take decades for legends like Kate Ceberano to get their due? From the front row of the 2026 World Cup to the cutting-room floor of The Devil Wears Prada 2, our resident Gossip Girl Unleashed Queen, Leonie Thomas, joins us to break down the glitz, the glamour, and the absolute snubs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are we witnessing a genuine housing revolution or just some very clever math for the 2026 election? This week, the Prime Minister has done a massive about-face, signaling that negative gearing and capital gains tax breaks are finally on the chopping block in the upcoming budget. It’s a move clearly aimed at Gen Z and Millennials, but does it actually fix the housing crisis? We also unpack the "Urgency Epidemic"—where every news alert feels like a four-alarm fire, leading to a generation that is more overwhelmed than informed. Plus, we look at the digital stampede that brought down Australia Post this morning... and it wasn't a cyber attack, it was a cartoon dog. D’Arcy Richardson joins Brent to debate whether the PM is a visionary or a populist, and why we still can’t figure out how to sell a coin without crashing the internet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a statistic that stops you in your tracks: 1 in 6 Australian pet owners are now seriously considering rehoming their beloved animals because they simply can't afford to keep them. As the cost-of-living crisis deepens, the bond between humans and their "fur babies" is being pushed to a breaking point. Brent is joined by Naomi Mancktelow from the Petstock Foundation. We’re pulling back the curtain on the "quiet crisis" facing our living rooms and shelters. From owners skipping their own meals to feed their dogs, to the thousands of perfectly trained pets sitting in rescue centers, we explore the reality of pet ownership in 2026 and how a community-led "Buddy" system is trying to keep families together.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1,314 lives lost in a single year. It’s the highest Australian road toll in over a decade, and the numbers are trending in the wrong direction. But here’s the kicker: while the data shows that risky driving is at an all-time high, 72% of us still believe we are "safe drivers." This week, we’re joined by Russell White, Founder and Chair of the Australian Road Safety Foundation. We’re diving into the "Fatal Five," the normalization of distraction, and the psychology behind why we break the rules even when we know the stakes. From the power of storytelling to the launch of Fatality Free Friday, discover why your "minor" driving habits might be more dangerous than you realize—and what it actually takes to change a culture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Would you risk your life savings to keep your sight? For many Australians over 50, this isn't a hypothetical—it’s a daily dilemma. Brent talks with Dr. Kathy Chapman, CEO of Macular Disease Foundation Australia. We’re uncovering the shocking reality of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), where the high cost of lifelong eye injections is forcing retirees back into the workforce or deep into debt. Discover why half of all patients stop treatment within five years and what can be done to fix a system that is literally costing people their vision.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Everywhere you look, collagen supplements are being hailed as the "fountain of youth" for people over 50, promising to erase wrinkles and firm up sagging skin. But when you swallow a supplement, does it actually head straight to your face to rebuild your complexion? This week, we sit down with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Natasha Cook to strip away the glossy marketing. We’re diving into the "Dermatology Reality Check" to find out if these supplements really work, what the science actually says about skin aging, and the surprising daily habit that protects your collagen better than any pill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re venturing from the very first paw-prints in orbit to the mind-bending future of interstellar travel. Astronomer David Reneke joins us to reveal how "metajets" could reach Alpha Centauri in our lifetime and why NASA’s massive new Roman Space Telescope is about to turn the lights on in the "dark" parts of our universe. Plus, we look back at the brave animals—from fruit flies to famous chimps—who risked it all so humans could follow. It’s a journey through space-time you won’t want to miss!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most of us have a "don’t want to be a burden" button, especially when it comes to healthcare. But in aged care, your voice isn’t an inconvenience—it’s a protected right. Brent sits down with Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner Liz Hefren-Webb to discuss the bold new national campaign, "Choice, Dignity, Respect." We’re breaking down the "silent dissatisfaction" barrier, tackling the fear of speaking up, and explaining why your feedback is the secret ingredient to a better aged care system for everyone. Don’t just receive care—shape it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent catches up with tech journalist Stephen Fenech from TechGuide.com.au for a fast-paced look at where technology is heading — and whether it’s moving faster than we can keep up. From leadership rumours at Apple and fresh debate over AI’s impact on human thinking, through to a wave of futuristic product launches that sound more sci-fi than showroom reality — this episode covers a tech world in overdrive. We’re talking smart homes that think for themselves, modular phones you can rebuild on the fly, AI scepticism from Silicon Valley royalty, and even a “supercar of the future” that looks like it’s been pulled straight from a concept film.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent sits down with Mark Latham for a no-filter run through “The Week That Was” — where cost-of-living pressure, domestic unrest, security failures, and international instability all land on the table at once. From rising inflation driven by global fuel shocks, to violent scenes in Alice Springs, through to fresh fallout from the Bondi terror review and politically explosive debates over ISIS-linked returnees — this week is a reminder that pressure points are stacking up both at home and abroad. And closer to everyday Australians, even tribunal frustrations at NCAT raise the question of whether “access to justice” is actually delivering fairness in practice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Morrison Brief, Brent sits down with Jason Morrison for a straight-up catch-up on three issues that are cutting through politics, policy, and everyday cost-of-living pressure. From a Sydney council controversy escalating into a free speech vs safety debate, to a property heavyweight declaring the housing system is “the worst it’s ever been”, through to inflation rising again while global forces keep pushing prices higher — there’s no shortage of pressure points hitting Australians right now. Brent and Jason unpack where responsibility sits, what governments can actually do, and whether policy is reacting fast enough to events that are already shaping public frustration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve all heard the advice: eat more fibre. But emerging nutrition science suggests that might only be half the story. Fibre isn’t a single nutrient — it’s a broad category of plant-based compounds that behave differently in the gut, influence different bacteria, and may shape everything from digestion to long-term health outcomes. So the real question is shifting from “Are we getting enough fibre?” to “Are we getting enough different types of fibre?” We’re joined by Registered Nutritionist Dr Emma Beckett to break down what fibre diversity actually means in everyday eating — and why variety may matter just as much as quantity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if your car insurance bill is quietly based on driving habits you no longer have? With many Australians driving less than they used to — thanks to remote work, public transport, and lifestyle changes — experts say a simple detail could be costing drivers hundreds of dollars a year. We’re speaking with Chris Ford from Compare the Market about why so many policies are never updated… and how one overlooked number could make a big difference to your premium.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From billion-dollar media mergers to Robert Irwin taking over US screens, plus the rise of silent discos, slow travel trains, and a possible new film hub in regional NSW — this week’s entertainment landscape is anything but quiet. We’re breaking down the stories reshaping what we watch, where content gets made, and how audiences are spending their time (and money). As always, joining us is Leonie Thomas — the Gossip Girl Unleashed Queen. Leonie, let’s get into it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s legal, socially accepted, and woven into everyday routines — but experts say alcohol is still the leading driver of addiction harm in Australia, and often the last one people recognise in themselves or others. We’re speaking with Janine Walker, Therapist at Southern Highlands Addiction Retreat, about why alcohol dependency is so frequently missed until things reach crisis point — and what early warning signs people should actually be looking for. Janine, thanks for joining us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Young Perspective, Brent sits down with D’Arcy Richardson to unpack the big issues shaping Australia right now — from Big Tech taxes and media power, to social media bans, AI job disruption, and what national identity looks like on days like Anzac Day. They cut through the headlines and debate what really matters:Is government catching up with the digital world, or falling behind it?Are today’s policies protecting people, or simply reacting to rapid change?And what does all this mean for younger Australians trying to build their future in it? A clear, direct conversation about politics, technology, and culture — without the noise.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flat-faced breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs and British Bulldogs are adored across Australia — but many live with a hidden struggle: chronic breathing difficulty caused by BOAS. Today we’re joined by Professor Tony Sasse to explore early-stage research into a new injectable treatment that may help improve airflow and reduce breathing strain in affected dogs — potentially offering an alternative to surgery in the future. It’s early days, but the initial results are raising real interest in how we manage one of the most common welfare issues in popular companion breeds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With cost-of-living pressures biting, more Australians are turning to social media for quick financial tips — but not everything online is what it seems. We’re joined by Compare Club’s Kate Browne to unpack ASIC’s crackdown on misleading “finfluencers,” why so many people are still trusting unlicensed money advice, and how to separate useful guidance from risky noise in your feed. From “guaranteed returns” claims to viral money hacks — what looks helpful online can sometimes come with a very real price tag.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A growing protest known as “Cash Out Day” is asking Australians to physically withdraw cash — not just spend it — as concern builds over the pace of our shift toward a cashless society. But is this really a loss of choice… or just the natural evolution of how we pay? Today we’re joined by Sally Tindall from Canstar to break down what’s actually happening behind the headlines — from ATM closures to digital payments dominating everyday life, and who might be getting left behind in the transition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two issues, both politically charged — and both raising questions about timing, priorities, and real-world impact. In this Morrison Brief, Brent speaks with Jason Morrison about the federal government’s long-overdue crackdown on the NDIS, and whether reforms are coming too late for the people who rely on it most. Plus, a new proposal around gender-neutral public toilets is sparking debate — is it modernisation, or policy overreach that’s missing the mark?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s not just the salt shaker on your table — it’s what’s already hiding in your food. Today we’re unpacking how everyday habits, packaged foods, and “just a pinch” cooking routines can quietly push sodium intake far higher than most people realise — and what that means for long-term heart health. We’re joined by Dr Emma Beckett, nutritional scientist, to break down where salt is really coming from, why we overuse it without noticing, and how small changes can make a measurable difference over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With ANZAC Day this Saturday, one of Australia’s most iconic traditions is back in kitchens across the country — the humble ANZAC biscuit. But behind the oats, golden syrup and coconut is a story rooted in wartime care, resilience, and community connection. We’re joined by Amanda Colwell from the Coonamble Evening Country Women’s Association to unpack the original recipe, the best way to get that perfect chewy-or-crunchy finish, and why this simple biscuit still carries such meaning more than a century later. From soldiers overseas to family kitchens today — this is one recipe that’s never just been about baking. CWA of NSW Anzac Biscuit Recipe 150g (1 cup) plain flour 220g (1 cup) sugar 100g (1 cup) rolled oats 90g (1 cup) desiccated coconut 125g butter 1 tablespoon golden syrup 2 tablespoons boiling water 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C and lightly grease two baking trays. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Lights, Camera, Leonie, it’s a full pop culture sweep — from cult movie comebacks to celebrity reinventions, royal TV moments, and a Hollywood loss hitting 90s fans hard. We’re joined by Leonie Thomas — the Gossip Girl Unleashed Queen — to break down what’s trending, what’s strategic, and what’s just pure headline chaos. • Practical Magic 2 bringing back a 90s cult favourite with a darker twist• Nicole Kidman’s unexpected move into death doula training and what it says about grief and modern celebrity• Harry & Meghan’s Australia visit — including a surprise MasterChef appearance• The death of 90s TV star Patrick Muldoon and why soap-era fame still resonates• And the bigger question: why nostalgia and celebrity reinvention are dominating culture right now From witches to royals to reinvention arcs — this week is all about what comes back, what changes, and what refuses to leave the spotlight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This month, Australians are being invited to do something simple that can make a real impact — move 60 kilometres in May to help fund cancer research. We’re joined by Carly du Toit from the Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) to unpack the national “60km in May” challenge and how everyday movement can contribute to lifesaving science. No elite fitness required — just walking, jogging, or running your way through May at your own pace. At its heart, this is a simple idea: move more, raise more, and help fund the next breakthrough. Vistit https://www.acrf.com.au/ for more informationa and to sign up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Young Perspective, we’re cutting through three very different but connected cultural flashpoints — from ultra-expensive “wellness” experiences, to growing cash skepticism, to the UK’s radical plan for a smoke-free generation. We’re joined by D’Arcy Richardson to ask the uncomfortable question: are these ideas actually progress… or just polished storytelling that doesn’t hold up in the real world? We cover:• Meghan Markle’s $3,200 wellness event — empowerment or premium branding?• Why more Australians are quietly drifting back toward cash• Whether “Cash Out Day” signals real banking distrust or online noise• The UK’s proposed lifetime cigarette ban for future generations• And whether big policy ideas survive contact with real behaviour At the centre of it all is a simple tension: trust — in brands, in systems, and in the rules we’re being asked to live by.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pet cloning might sound like science fiction — but it’s already happening. The real question for pet owners is whether cloning can bring back the same companion. We’re joined by Dr Andrew Cornwell to break down what cloning actually does (and what it doesn’t). The short answer: DNA can be replicated — personality can’t. We cover:• Why a cloned pet may look identical but behave differently• The powerful role of environment and early life experience• Common misconceptions about “bringing a pet back”• And the emotional realities owners need to consider At its core, cloning creates a new animal with a shared genetic blueprint — not the same pet returned.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s health system has long been considered one of the best — but doctors say the pressure is now impossible to ignore. We’re joined by Dr Danielle McMullen, President of the Australian Medical Association, to unpack why the system is showing “cracks” across GP care, hospitals, and private health. From overcrowded emergency departments to rising chronic disease and workforce burnout, the warning is clear: without evidence-based reform, the system risks falling out of step with modern patient needs. At its core, this is about whether Australia’s health system can evolve — or continue to stretch under pressure.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re revisiting a story that’s been sparking a lot of listener questions after last week’s discussion — the rise of algorithm-driven decision-making in Australia’s aged care at home funding system. This week, we’re joined by Professor Hal Swerissen, Emeritus Professor of Public Health at La Trobe University, to unpack what’s actually happening behind the scenes. The big question: when funding decisions for older Australians are increasingly shaped by algorithms, are we improving fairness and consistency… or quietly removing human judgement from care? We’ll break it down:• How the Support at Home system actually assigns care funding• Why small scoring changes can mean thousands of dollars in support• Concerns about “black box” decision-making with no manual override• Why families are increasingly appealing assessments they don’t understand• And whether this is efficiency — or a system now needing reform At the centre of it all is a simple tension: standardisation vs individual care needs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week with astronomer David Reneke, we’re covering the full spectrum of space activity — from a faint comet you can actually try to spot from Australia before sunrise, through to the next wave of global space missions, and even NASA’s early plans for a nuclear-powered Mars mission in 2028. It’s a mix of what’s happening right above us… and what’s coming far beyond Earth. We’ll break down:• Comet C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS) lighting up the pre-dawn sky (if you’ve got binoculars and patience)• Why space exploration is shifting into a faster, more crowded “many missions at once” era• NASA’s bold concept for nuclear propulsion and Mars helicopters• And what all of this actually means for the next decade of space science David, as always, helps cut through the hype and explain what’s real, what’s emerging, and what’s still just engineering ambition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent speaks with Jason Morrison for this week’s Morrison Brief, unpacking three major pressure points in national and global policy. From rapidly shifting messaging on the Strait of Hormuz and rising geopolitical uncertainty, to growing questions around Australia’s immigration system and long-term visa overstays, the conversation examines whether systems are keeping up with reality or falling behind it. They also look at Australia’s fuel security, as states begin exploring their own diesel reserves amid concerns about federal coordination and energy resilience. A sharp discussion on credibility, enforcement, and what happens when national systems start operating in fragments rather than in alignment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent chats with Bree about one of her most popular viral recipes—stuffed potato skins. With over 250,000 views online, this comfort food favourite combines crispy baked potato shells with melted cheese, bacon, sour cream, and fresh herbs for the perfect shareable snack. Bree breaks down why it works, how to get the perfect crunch, and why this simple dish has become a go-to for easy entertaining. For more information visit Bree facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1KuWswGdYr/?mibextid=wwXIfrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent speaks with Lina Goodman, CEO of Tyre Stewardship Australia, about a growing national issue: illegal tyre dumping and the hidden cost it’s creating for communities. A new investigation highlights how some operators are charging disposal fees, then illegally dumping tyres—leaving councils to foot the bill for clean-up, and ratepayers effectively paying twice. We unpack how the system is being exploited, the financial impacts, and why experts are calling for stronger national regulation and reform.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Lights, Camera, Leonie, Brent is joined by entertainment commentator Leonie Thomas to unpack a packed mix of celebrity culture, real-world struggles, and shifting Australian lifestyles. They start with Aussie comedy icon Effie returning to the stage with her new tour Frigid to Feral, exploring how humour, boundaries, and audience expectations have changed over time — and why nostalgia still sells. Next, they turn to Pamela Anderson’s ongoing reinvention, as she continues her shift toward a more natural, stripped-back public image and a different kind of fame built on authenticity rather than glamour. From there, it’s behind the scenes at fashion week, including the reality of runway chaos, sustainability pressures, and the rise of DIY styling — including a very real “safety pin solution” moment that says a lot about modern fashion culture. The conversation then turns serious, with boxing legend Shannon Taylor facing a stage 4 cancer diagnosis, sparking widespread community support and raising questions about life beyond sport and public identity. It’s a wide-ranging episode covering entertainment, reinvention, resilience, and the changing way Australians are living day to day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent speaks with Mandy Mannix from Challenger about the latest Retirement Happiness Index. Australians over 60 are reporting higher happiness and wellbeing than last year — driven by purpose, activity, and social connection. But financial anxiety hasn’t gone away, with many still worried about rising costs, inflation, and whether their savings will last. We unpack what’s driving the gains in happiness — and why money confidence is still lagging behind.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent talks with D’Arcy Richardson about a confronting week of national issues exposing cracks across Australia’s systems. From a regional NSW charity flying critically ill children for life-saving treatment now pushed to the brink by fuel costs, to billion-dollar government awareness campaigns questioned over whether they actually change behaviour. From debates over second chances in politics, to immigration oversight gaps and long-term overstays, the conversation cuts into how policy is working — and where it isn’t. A straight look at the tension between intent, execution, and real-world consequences.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent talks with Dr Andrew Cornwell, veterinarian and owner of Cardiff and Cameron Park Veterinary Hospitals, to explore a fascinating question many dog owners are starting to ask — when does strong play behaviour become too intense? We look at why some dogs develop extremely high focus on certain toys or games, to the point where they are difficult to distract or settle afterwards. While often mistaken for “addiction”, this behaviour is better understood as a strong reward-driven response linked to natural motivation systems in the brain. The discussion breaks down what this behaviour looks like in everyday pets, why it is more common in certain breeds and temperaments, and how training history can influence intensity over time. We also explore the key difference between healthy, engaged play and behaviour that may signal frustration or welfare concerns — and what owners can do to create better balance at home through structured enrichment and rest. It’s a practical, science-based conversation about how dogs experience play, reward, and focus — and how to make sure it stays healthy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent talks with Richard Atkinson, Head of Fraud and Identity for Experian Australia and New Zealand, to unpack the rapidly evolving world of online fraud and identity theft — and how artificial intelligence is changing the threat landscape. New research shows fraud is no longer a rare or isolated issue, but a widespread everyday risk affecting more than half of Australians. With scams becoming faster, more convincing, and increasingly automated, criminals are now using AI to mimic voices, replicate writing styles, and target victims at scale. We explore what types of scams are most common, why younger Australians are reporting higher victim rates, and which sectors are most exposed. We also look at the growing tension between trust and technology, with many Australians still uncomfortable with AI-driven security tools despite rising threats. It’s a clear, practical conversation about how fraud is changing, who is most at risk, and what can realistically be done to stay protected in a digital environment that is becoming harder to trust.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent talks with Vítor Pistóia, Senior Grains and Oilseeds Analyst at Rabobank, to explore a major shift in how Australia’s agricultural sector could intersect with global energy security. With fuel prices volatile and global oil markets under pressure, new analysis suggests Australian canola may play a growing role not just in food exports, but in producing renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. We break down how biofuels fit into the global push to decarbonise transport, why diesel and aviation remain difficult to electrify, and what this means for Australia’s farmers and fuel independence. We also explore the opportunity and the trade-off — Australia exporting raw canola while importing large volumes of diesel — and whether expanding domestic processing could change that equation. It’s a discussion about agriculture, energy security, and how a familiar crop could become a strategic fuel source in the years ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we’re joined by resident astrologer Sue Dunwoody to unpack a rare and powerful astrological setup — with seven planets now in Aries, bringing a surge of energy, urgency, and fast-moving change. We break down what this means for communication, relationships, and decision-making as Mercury enters Aries mid-week, sharpening words and speeding up reactions. Then we look ahead to the New Moon in Aries, a moment traditionally linked to new beginnings, bold choices, and fresh starts. Across the board, the theme is clear: action over hesitation — but with a strong warning around impulsive decisions, heated exchanges, and saying things before thinking them through. It’s a week defined by momentum, emotion, and confrontation — with every sign feeling the pressure in a different way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we’re joined by astronomer David Reneke to unpack a landmark moment in space exploration — the successful return of NASA’s Artemis II mission after its historic crewed journey around the Moon. For the first time in over 50 years, astronauts have travelled beyond low Earth orbit and returned safely, completing a full lunar fly-by and proving key systems needed for future Moon landings. We break down what was achieved, what the astronauts experienced while viewing the Moon from deep space, and why Australia played an important role in tracking and deep-space communications. We also look at the most intense phase of the mission — re-entry and ocean splashdown — where temperatures soared to extreme levels and precision recovery operations were critical to mission success. It’s a conversation about engineering, exploration, human perspective, and what this mission now means for the next era of lunar travel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.