The Swanston Explainer

In a city like Melbourne where the dating pool is endless, meaningful connection somehow feels increasingly rare leading some to believe finding their ‘Prince Charming’ is impossible.This podcast episode dives into the chaotic and quietly unsettling reality of modern dating. Through a mix of data analysis and real life stories, we explore how dating apps have transformed romance into something closer to a game where ghosting is normal, emotional unavailability is trendy, and “nonchalant” men are thriving.By Archana Pereira, Georgina Beard and Danika

TV is starting to look very different. The days of the 22 episode season, slow-burn storylines, and becoming attached to characters are quickly being replaced by short 8 episode drops designed for binge-watching and streaming, but what does that mean for audiences?From losing comfort shows to feeling like we rarely see people or communities reflected realistically, we explore how this global shift is changing TV, especially in Australia, and whether the future of TV is becoming harder to connect with.

This episode of The Swanston Explainer explores the question: Should everyone have a voice online? And who gets to call themselves a journalist in the newsletter age. Host Juliet Bond and reporter Danae Tsakalakis investigate how platforms like Substack are transforming journalism by giving anyone the power to publish. They unpack the tension between accessibility and credibility, examining the dangers of misinformation and the loss of editorial oversight. Featuring journalist and researcher Sushi Das, the episode questions what “good journalism” means today and whether digital freedom strengthens or undermines public trust.By Juliet Bond, Danae Tsakalakis, and Elara Yau

The rise of BookTok has transformed reading into a highly visible online trend, reviving interest in literature among younger audiences. However, concerns are being raised about its effect on literature. Is depth and critical thinking being swapped for faster paced, trope centered books? Is lack of choice and individuality being driven by algorithms and the “correct” marketing?

In the world of sport, athletes are given the opportunity to compete at the highest level, but sport has also long been a way to bring people together. What was once seen as an escape from everyday life has increasingly become a space shaped by politics, with athletes and organisations speaking more openly about social and political issues. As competitors become more vocal about their personal beliefs, the line between sport and identity politics is becoming harder to ignore.In this episode, we explore both the support for and opposition to athletes using their platforms to speak out. Do sporting figures have a responsibility to advocate for important issues and drive social change, or should sport remain neutral and free from political division?Host: Anthony Fazzari Reporter: Finn O'Connell-LacyProducer: Yianni KottarasSeries Producer: Jude Katsianis

Scroll through any social media, flip through any channel or turn on any station, and you’ll inevitably hear discussions and arguments about being transgender. In our media, it can feel like gender diversity is constantly argued about, and transgender people are always under the microscope. In the face of a lot of changes to policy for gender diversity, like the Olympics' recent introduction of chromosome testing, The Swanston Explainer spoke with a Melbourne-based organisation involved in trans communities to find out a little bit more about how Victoria regards and treats its gender diverse population.Host: Dilan BektasReporter: Cassidy ParkerSeries Producer: Jude Katsianis

Australia has introduced a world-first proposed ban on social media for under-16s.Driven by concerns around online safety, screen addiction, and mental health impacts on young users, on this podcast we have discussed the overriding impact that these factors are having on under 18's, backed with a feature from experts in the industry.

Recently, many Australian's may be feeling a sense of déjà vu. Just as we thought the days of panic buying were behind us, as occurred in the Covid-19 pandemic, the conflict in the Middle East has seen its return. In this episode, we explore the habits Australian's have during times of crisis and the theories behind panic buying.

In this episode, we unpack the modern political resurgence of Pauline Hanson and One Nation. Despite three decades of relentless controversy, the party is experiencing a significant media renaissance. But how long will it last, and how far can it go?By Henry Brook and Archie Frazer

Food prices are rising, but community kitchens across Melbourne are stepping up. In this episode, we explore Hare Krishna’s Food for Life program and Crossways restaurant, speaking to the people behind the meals supporting students, families and vulnerable communities during the cost-of-living crisis.Host - Amelie WhitfieldReporter - Yasmine TannerProducer - Sara WaldnerSeries Producer - Jude Katsianis

Looksmaxxing has seen a boom in popularity over the last few years. The trend promotes the idea that the way to succeeding in life is predominantly through how you look, aimed almost entirley and teenaged boys it promotes the unorthodox alteration of someone's physical appearance. Centred around controversial and frightening methods from the use of illicit drugs to taking a hammer to one's face, this podcast unpacks the brutal and dangerous lifestyle cultivated by looksmaxxers, who the figureheads are, and why they believe and preach these things.By Frankie Dickson, Felix Little, and Jake Stewart

Australia dominates the sporting stage - swimming, cricket, AFL - but in soccer, we still fall short. The Socceroos have reached the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 twice, but why can’t they go further? Is it cost, grassroots support, or something deeper? In this episode, we unpack Australia’s struggles in soccer and analyse their performance ahead of this year’s World Cup. Follow along as we explore what’s holding Australian football back.

Melbourne's live music scene is one of the many prides and passions of the city. With a rich history of cultural and artistic expression, there's been a mix of rock, jazz and even a rise in electronic music all originating from gritty pubs and iconic late-night bandrooms. We're gonna take a dive into if the importance and excitement is still being held onto. There have been a lot of factors to consider for why things have changed, but is this change a rise of transformation? No matter how many economic hardships this city faces, does the live music scene carry on? How are young people interacting with local music? And what does the future look like for these beloved music venues? Let's find out on today's episode of The Swanston Explainer. By Samantha Hall, Eleni Hrysicos-Qureshi and Kobie Riley

Protein has become a massive craze amongst gym goers In Australia. However, some of these high-protein products on the supermarket’s shelves are just as processed as a bag of chips. Thanks to clever marketing techniques, many brands have been creating a high protein image in order to appeal to the craze. This has led to the phenomenon of the health halo, convincing customers that their purchase is a healthy choice despite the truth. Listen in as we explore the truth behind this viral craze, and what Australians should really be looking out for when buying their protein.By Charlotte Rowbottom, Connor McCall, Eva Rendina, Rita Kim

Do you care about the political views of your favourite actor or artist? Social media has granted us access to the lives of celebrities on a larger scale than ever before, including their political views.We look into how celebrities interact with politics, and how that may have changed over time. But also why we as non-famous people actually care about the political opinion of the figures we look up. How do celebrity endorsements impact us both internationally but also here in Melbourne. Host: Emma GilesReporter: Maria JarmainSeries Producer: Jude Katsianis

The inaugural Enhanced Games are mere days away. It’s the controversial brainchild of Australian billionaire Aron D’Souza that will see athletes push human limits. How? By consuming as many performance enhancing drugs as they want, and showing us how fast they can really go. But by signing on, athletes face health risks and harsh sanctions from sporting bodies, leading us to ask, is the million-dollar prize really worth it? Reporter Ella Hose and host Hudson Farr look for answers.By Hudson Farr, Ella Hose and Harrison Caithness

Zines are small, self-published booklets that have remained a staple of Melbourne’s arts landscape, despite the dominance of digital media. They offer a more grounded experience as they are typically self-produced, with DIY methods and a lack of censorship. At the forefront of Melbourne’s zine community is Sticky Institute, a volunteer-run artist initiative that is dedicated to zines and “are ardent defenders of zine culture.” In this episode, host Jasmin Parsonage and reporter Laura Darling-Filby unpack Melbourne’s zine community and culture – why it has persisted, what makes them so engaging, and what its future looks like in our current digital climate. We spoke to Luke from Sticky Institute about the organisation’s vital role in Melbourne’s zine landscape. Host: Jasmin ParsonageReporter: Laura Darling-FilbyProducer: Talia DoganSeries Producer: Jude Katsianis

In the last few months, the popularity and discourse around the use of peptides has skyrocketed – especially on social media, among young people. While some peptides are legal as prescribed by a doctor to treat legitimate medical conditions, many are being bought and sold illegally in Australia for performance-enhancement and cosmetic purposes. This podcast from The Swanston Explainer will explore whether peptides are the ultimate key to biohacking, or just a biohazard. Podcast by Alice Parry, Audrey Gearon and Iliada Bramich

Reliable. Dependable. Accessible. Agreeable. Supportive. These are all traits that any of us would like to have from a perfect best friend. These also happen to be traits of every AI chatbot ever made. Young people are slowly replacing real and meaningful friendships with these faux imitations, and experts are starting to wonder why.In this podcast, we explore the reason behind young people's preference for AI friendships and what the future of social connection looks like for us.By Evan Fleming, Nina Pasqualini, and Jessica Chloe Djendria

Starting from April, due to the fuel crisis, public transport has been free, with this initiative now extended until the end of May and fares halved for the remainder of the year. While this eases financial pressure for many Melbournians, it also reignites debate around why public transport in Victoria is so expensive to begin with. Many commuters avoid tapping on for different reasons. This podcast will explore those motivations, how they differ between individuals, and how they ultimately result in the same outcome: not tapping on.By Afrina Fitri, Harper Thomson, and Will Calleja

Another Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival has come and gone, with GRWM videos and outfit checks flooding social media feeds. More than ever, the lines between music festivals, influencer culture and advertising are blurring. In this episode, we ask: is Coachella still about the music? Through discussions on authenticity, online visiblity, and the economics of influencing, we explore how social media has reshaped the festival, turning attendance into content and audience into consumers. We also look at how brands and creators shape the experience both in person and online. By Theo Boltman, Tess Floreani and Jack Harris

The latest data from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency revealed that many companies targeted towards a female consumer base, are those with the biggest gender pay gaps in the nation. Yet, these very same companies proudly came out in support of International Women's Day, preaching soldarity, girlhood and positivity amongst their consumer base. This led to many Australian women questioning their authenticity, and whether these companies truly practise what they preach. We sat down for a deep dive into the statistics and trend behind this issue, and how these companies are being held accountable. All statistics surrounding brand's gender pay gaps were soruced from Women's Agenda, The Sydney Morning Herald, and Workplace Gender Equality Agency. By Emily Ojansuu, Lily Galanis, and Ruta Alai

The Swanston Explainer 2026 season will premiere on the 18th of May.The big issues are unpacked in 15-minute episodes.Created and presented by RMIT Journalism students.

When Spotify CEO Daniel Ek invested over $1 billion AUD in Helsing — an AI defence company developing military drone technology — the backlash was immediate. Bands like Deerhoof, Xiu Xiu, and King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard pulled their music in protest. But while established artists can afford to boycott, most can’t.This episode examines the ethical and economic dilemma facing musicians in an industry dominated by platform capitalism. Spotify has long been accused of exploiting artists through low payouts, algorithmic bias, and a shift toward profit-driven podcasting. Ek’s investment in military AI, critics say, only exposes the company’s deeper values.Can artists resist a system that both sustains and compromises them? And what does it mean when the world’s biggest music platform is literally funding war?Reporters: Ethan Seiderman and Izzy Lewis

Mixed martial arts, or MMA, is becoming increasingly popular amongst Australians. A partnership between the UFC and the NSW State Government will see multiple fight promotions hosted in Australia over the coming years. Politicians and practitioners alike promote the physical and mental benefits of both watching, and training MMA. However, engaging with MMA can expose people to far right viewpoints. Extremist groups are actively using MMA gyms and clubs to recruit unsuspecting followers.Can the positive and negative impacts of MMA exist at the same time? Listen to find out. Reporters: Will Pascua and Sandra Thomsen

Men love to watch OnlyFans content, but hate the women that make it? Sex workers are always in the spotlight, but the online platform OnlyFans makes it all too easy for men to spit out abuse at the women they watch with no consequences. We dive into the impacts, reasoning and solutions to try to make sense of the hypocritical hate men give OnlyFans creators.Host: Ruby FoxReporter: Ruby ParkinsonProducer: Amelia McQuoidSeries Producer: Joanna BeardExecutive Producer: Kate Arnott

Early this year, Tik Tok went crazy over fake Birkin’s being sold at popular chain, Walmart. Many were stunned over its almost identical look to the real deal, others weren’t too impressed arguing that this affects the status of a bag that can retail up to 6 figures.In this podcast, we explore how a Birkin knock-off has led to the divide between social classes and the culture behind the bag. We also explore the ethics behind fake designer items.Host: Deanna LotestoReporter: Julia HuntSeries Producer: Rex ChardExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Social media is often touted as being bad for mental health. However, a March study out of Belgium found that short social media detoxes didn’t really affect participants’ wellbeing. This episode explores the concept of ‘digital minimalism’, switching off the social media apps entirely, and tries to answer the question: is longer term social media abstinence a solution to self esteem issues and wellbeing, or does today’s society require the interconnectedness it provides? Host: Amy BrookReporter: Emily WilliamsSeries Producer: Rex ChardExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

From the historic Espy to the little venues tucked away in back streets, St Kilda has always been Melbourne's home of live music. But with the cost of living crisis, more and more venues are struggling to get customers and bands are feeling the pinch.Reporter: Thomas StockSeries Producer: Alexandra MulcasterExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

A dive into some of the AFL's biggest scandals and the players involved. We explore how times have changed, with the powerful presence of social media causing detrimental to those in the limelight. We speak to players from the past and present to gain some unique perspectives from those who have experienced it firsthand. Host: Will DunlopReporter: Saskia TurnerProducer: Jack SuttonSeries Producer: Joanna BeardExecutive Producer: Kate Arnott

A knock to the head isn't just a bump — it can end a career.Concussion is now front and centre in sport, from the pros to the juniors. Athletes are retiring early, brain injuries are being uncovered, and leagues are racing to change protocols before it’s too late.More research, stricter rules, and better education are leading the charge — but the time to act is now.Let’s use the knowledge we have, to protect our players before the damage is done. Host: Maddison CutajarReporting: Grace BoydProducer: Zac FaheySeries Producer: Louis HarrisonExecutive Producer: Kate Arnott

In this episode we breakdown the rise of the Incel movement and its worrying influence on young men through the new Netflix drama, Adolecence.Host: Orlando CoxReporter: Dash Spencer-White Producer: James PayneSeries Producer: Rex ChardExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

On April 2nd, when US President Donald Trump announced his sweeping economic policy, essentially isolating the United States from the rest of the world, he singled out one specific industry as the reason behind what he called, "reciprocal tariffs" for Australian trade. Despite the endless criticism towards the policy, and how his alleged desired affects of bringing production back to America is likely not going to be achieved through it, there's still a lot more that doesn't make sense. Why does he consider the tariff reciprocal in the first place? Join Patrick Lyne and Alexander Scott as they unpack the proverbial minced meat that this policy is, and how exactly Australians and US consumers are going to deal with it.Host: Patrick LyneReporter: Alexander ScottSeries Producer: Alexandra MulcasterExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Young Australians are drinking less than ever before. Many of them are choosing to put down the bottle entirely. We spoke to two young Australians about why they don't drink, and discussed the different reasons why young people aren't drinking. Whether it's having hangovers so bad they never drink again, cost of living pressures and alcohol tax combining to create a cost of beer crisis, or an increase in illicit drug use. Host: Jack LarkinReporter: Matilda PrelecProducer: Hayley ArcherSeries Producer: Joanna BeardExecutive Producer: Kate Arnott

Amid a cost-of-living crisis, young Aussie couples are feeling the pressure-especially when it comes to planning a wedding. With the average cost hitting $41,400 in 2024 and the dreaded “wedding tax” inflating prices, many are forced to rethink how (and if) they’ll tie the knot. In this episode, we unpack the financial strain, explore why you’re told not to mention it’s a wedding, and ask: Is love really worth the price tag?Host: Charlie KondosReporting: Lucy DonnellyProducer: Aisha AmbesiSeries Producer: Louis HarrisonExecutive Producer: Kate Arnott

From the increasing use of viral memes and pop culture references made by political parties, to collaborations with influencers like Abbie Chatfield - political messaging and entertainment are increasingly intertwining. Join Edie Williamson and Julia Sicilia as they dissect how digital culture is reshaping the democratic conversation in Australia. Host/Producer: Edie WilliamsonReporter/Producer: Julia SiciliaSeries Producer: Alexandra MulcasterExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

What was once considered a small indie film distributor, production company A24 has redefined what it means to be mainstream in the film industry. Gaining attention with films like Spring Breakers and Moonlight, it quickly carved out a niche for innovative, risk-taking storytelling. Over the years, A24 expanded into television and production, becoming synonymous with high-quality, unconventional stories. Its success with award-winning projects and cult favourites like Hereditary and Everything Everywhere All at Once cemented its reputation as a powerhouse in the film industry, reshaping modern entertainment.Host: Anthea Kalathas Reporter: Jade Nacionales Series Producer: Rex ChardExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

A new Netflix series called 'Adolescence' has brought to light the dangers of 'red pill' content and how it's effecting the behaviours of young men. On this week's podcast, Mackenzie and Skye will discuss the ins and outs of this rising culture. Mackenzie also speaks to a domestic violence worker about how this content is affecting society. Host: Mackenzie MitchellReporter: Skye FentonProducer: Tayla GoftonSeries producer: Joanna BeardExecutive producer: Kate Arnott

With Donatella Versace stepping down as Versace’s Creative Director, a position which she had held for nearly 30 years after her brother Gianni's passing, the future of the brand has been a hot topic. With the news that Prada has now acquired Versace from Capri Holdings, fashion designer Dario Vitale will take over Donatella’s former role. In the wake of this, we spoke to RMIT Senior Lecturer at the School of Fashions and Textiles, Harriet Richard,s to discuss the state of luxury in global but also Australian contexts. Host: Ava RossReporting: Eva RamosProducer: Astra Yol Series Producer: Louis HarrisonExecutive Producer: Kate Arnott

For years social media influencers have posted their advice and healthy recipes to help people engage with their physical health. However, sometimes influencers are not who they say they are and most likely can't offer professional medical advice. Our podcast will delve into the dangers of listening to online health information and Belle Gibson's horrific impact on those suffering from cancer. As Netflix's hit show Apple Cider Vinegar re-opened the disturbing conversation about trusting online health influencers, we will unpack Gibson's cancer lie and how to go about listening to online medical advice.Host: Nicole ManolitsasReporter: Ella RusmirProducer: Rebecca MurphySeries Producer: Alexandra MulcasterExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

In Bias & Balance, we explore how feminism is portrayed, challenged, and championed in the media—and what that means for the gender divide in society. From film to TV, todays episode unpacks the narratives that shape public perception of gender roles, power, and progress. Is the media bridging the increasingly polarsing gap or reinforcing old lines? Join us as we discuss how digital content both reflects and reshapes the fight for equality and the responsibility they have to their viewers to educate and empower.Host: Cass MuirReporter: Sophie CiardulliProducer: Claudia Coombe-Tennant Series Producer: Rex ChardExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Following the 2025 federal election, it was made clear that Australia remains deeply divided on political issues, with a growing conservative lean among young Australian men. On this week's podcast, we discuss the surprising rise of conservatism among Gen Z males and why it’s striking a chord. From the influence of social media to evolving views on identity and masculinity, we unpack what's drawing a new generation to adopt traditional values and what it means for the future of politics. Host: Annalee DalyReporter: Kiara AngeliniProducer: Poppy KnightSeries producer: Joanna BeardExecutive producer: Kate Arnott

The 2025 Federal Budget will cut all outstanding HELP student debts by 20%, providing immediate relief to around 3 million Australians and addressing mounting frustration over rising indexation and the cost-of-living crisis. While many welcome the change, critics argue it leaves deeper issues-like high university fees and repayment thresholds-unresolved and has sparked backlash from those who already paid off their loans.Host: Zara SelmaniReporting: Max EcuyerProducer: Sid CaulfieldSeries Producer: Louis HarrisonExecutive Producer: Kate Arnott

New Media has become the third sphere of dissecting celebrity culture. Created through social media audiences can offer up their own voices through established new media businesses like Deuxmoi, a popular Instagram page that releases stories about celebrities. We cover the recent cast announcement for The Beatles film and why Daisy-Edgar Jones is saying “[she’s] worked with basically all of the internet’s boyfriends”. Listen to find out more about why New Media is changing the coverage of celebrities and why we are obsessed with it!Host: Sarsha Kerton Reporter: Lucy SlevisonProducer: Lucy MuscatSeries Producer: Rex ChardExecutive Producer: Janak Rogers and Kate Arnott

In this episode of The Swanston Explainer, we break down Victoria’s tough new bail laws and their impact two months on. Reporter Mia Branda-Pavlakis joins Brandon Tripptree to unpack community reactions, expert concerns, and the political pressure behind the changes. With insights from Dr Kathryn Daley, we explore how the laws affect vulnerable groups, particularly youth, women, and Indigenous communities. Are these reforms about safety—or politics? Tune in for a deep dive into one of Victoria’s most controversial policies.Host: Brandon TripptreeReporter: Mia Branda-PavlakisProducer: Bill TeumaSeries Producer: Alexandra MulcasterExecutive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Empty supermarket shelves and rising prices have become the norm for Victorian shoppers due to egg shortages caused by avian flu. The avian influenza outbreaks have led to the culling of millions of hens and is worsened by high seasonal demand and shifts in farming practices. Major retailers like Coles and Woolworths have imposed purchase limits, while local grocers may offer better availability. We spoke to Josh Murray, the founder of Josh’s Rainbow Eggs to unpack the story from a farmer’s perspective.Host: Precious IdikaReporting: Eugenie DixonProducer: James BellSeries producer: Joanna BeardExecutive producer: Kate Arnott

From rising costs in groceries to increases in the housing market, the cost of living is affecting everyone. Our podcast will discuss the effects that the cost of living is having on university students, as they are often overlooked. We discuss the physical, mental and social impacts that the cost of living is having on students. Through speaking to students, we have gained first-hand insight into life as a university student trying to balance the cost of living, education, and a social life. In this podcast, we also touch on the promised HECs cuts by Labor and how this may benefit students. Host: Mia CutugnoReporting: Riley DezelakProducer: Peace IjiyeraSeries producer: Louis HarrisonExecutive producer: Kate Arnott

Basketball in Australia continues to rise each year. Now the second most played sport for kids in the country. Becasuse of this, Basketball Australia devised a 4 year strategic plan in order to capitlise on this growing success. There are more Australians in both the NBA and WNBA, the number one pick in this years NBA draft chose to come down under instead of the traditional college route and continued international success (olympics). With all signs pointing in the right direction, has the plan been a success or does the sport still have a long way to go to reach the top in this sport saturated country.

There has been a spate of chemical factory fires in Melbourne's west. In July alone, there was a massive fire explosion in Derrimut followed by another in the neighbouring suburb of Deer Park just days later. It's led concerned residents to call on the government and the EPA to take action. Host Matthew Younan and reporter Mel Bakewell investigate.

Artists like Chappell Roan, Renee Rapp and Charlie XCX are singing and collaborating on music that embraces queer, specifically sapphic, sexuality. This wasn’t always the case, with artists historically having to hide their sexuality, and even in the early 2010’s, queer artists were being subtle about their queerness. So, how did the explosion of queer and sapphic music come about? Host Lily Beamish and reporter Seena Katayama investigate.