Radio Northern Beaches Highlights Podcast

Join Chrissy Mack on the RNB Podcast as she delves into the complexities of politics and the Reserve Bank of Australia. Explore topics like the "Fair Go" and "Honest Struggle," the illusion of choice, and the gas mirage. Understand the challenges facing independent retirement, the concept of the Sovereign Black Hole, and the inflation fallacy. Chrissy provides insightful analysis on these pressing issues, offering a fresh perspective on the current economic landscape. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

Join Chrissy and Trevor Mack as they share their excitement and a special announcement about the Country Stars Australia competition. Tune in to hear all the details about this thrilling event and what it means for country music enthusiasts across the nation. Don't miss out on this exciting update! Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

Join Chrissy Mack on the RnB Podcast as she dives deep into the housing crisis in Australia. In this episode, Chrissy sets aside political rhetoric and media spin to explore the real roots of the crisis. Discover a candid analysis of how we arrived at this point, and what needs to change to address the challenges facing Australians today. Tune in for an honest and insightful discussion that cuts through the noise. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

Join host Michael Lester as he sits down with Michael Atherton AM, Foundation Professor of Music at the University of Western Australia. Explore Atherton's lifelong passion for music, his compositions, performances, and recordings. Discover his work with groups like the Renaissance Players and Sirocco, and his collaborations with diverse musicians across Australia's many cultures. Learn about his commitment to music education and his unique approach to blending cultures, genres, and instruments. Enjoy a selection of his music as we celebrate his contributions to the musical landscape. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

Join host Michael Lester as he sits down with Yaegl musician Michael Birk to explore his new album, "Ngarraya." Discover the significance of Birk's music and language to his identity and meaning. Dive into the personal stories and struggles reflected in his lyrics, deeply rooted in place and country. Listen in as they discuss songwriting, performance, and record production, and enjoy a few tracks from his latest album. Celebrate the power of music to connect and express profound personal and cultural narratives. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode of the RNB Podcast, Michael Lester interviews Roger Beale AO, former Australian public service departmental head, on the NDIS blowout. Introduced in 2013 by Prime Minister Julia Gillard, the National Disability Insurance Scheme was a revolutionary welfare policy based on the right to assistance for those with permanent disabilities. Explore how the scheme has evolved over nearly 15 years, now supporting close to 700,000 people at a cost of $50 billion annually, making it the third largest component of Commonwealth government expenditure. Roger Beale discusses options to manage budgetary costs and ensure the scheme's sustainable future. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the challenges and solutions surrounding this vital program. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB Podcast, Michael Lester interviews Thomas Mayo, Torres Strait Islander writer, unionist, human rights advocate, and Uluru Statement signatory. They discuss Mayo’s edited collection Dear Son—letters between Indigenous fathers and sons that challenge toxic stereotypes about masculine identity. The conversation covers how the work has been adapted into a powerful stage play (touring nationally in 2025), the impact of the Voice referendum no vote, and Mayo’s book Always Was, Always Will Be: The Campaign for Justice and Recognition Continues (2024). A thoughtful exploration of Indigenous leadership, reconciliation, and ongoing advocacy for justice and recognition in Australia. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB Podcast episode, Michael Lester interviews Jill L'Estrange of the Headland Preservation Group about the proposed divestment sale of HMAS Penguin, the historic waterfront naval facility at Middle Head, Mosman. Explore the community objections, the campaign to keep the site in public hands, and how these decisions intersect with defence budgeting and heritage protection. A thoughtful look at preserving public heritage amid development pressures on Sydney Harbour's Middle Head-Georges Heights precinct. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB Podcast, Chrissy Mack interviews producer Jason Blaiklock and composer Anthony MacDermott about the Australian take on the Book of Job. Explore how local producers and a brilliant cast bring this timeless tragedy to life, featuring insights into adaptation, score, and the creative process behind a world-class, homegrown interpretation of Job. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this Friday RNB Podcast, Michael Lester talks with NSW Liberal MP James Griffin, former Environment and Heritage Minister and current Shadow Minister for Energy, Climate Change, Digital AI, and Investment. They dissect the Liberal Party’s brand challenges after a historic federal defeat, the plunge in polling, and the rise of new leadership at national and NSW levels. Explore strategies for renewal and regeneration, the path to rebuilding trust, and how party direction might shape Australia’s climate, innovation, and digital futures. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB Podcast, Michael Lester interviews Henry Reynolds, Australian of the Year (2015) and distinguished historian of settler-indigenous relations. They discuss Reynolds’ new book, Looking from the North: Australian History from the Top Down (New South Books, 2025), which reframes Australia’s colonisation as two distinct acts—1788 in the southeast under imperial sovereignty and post-1860 expansion in the north under Australian sovereignty. The conversation delves into land settlement, demographic dynamics, and the complex patterns of land ownership, including Indigenous rights to land across a continent where much of the tropical north remains a frontier of development. A thoughtful, provocative exploration of how “top-down” history reshapes national memory and policy. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

Join Chrissy Mack as she interviews Terry Kennedy from Thryv in this must-listen episode. Discover strategies for managing your online reviews and reputation, building business resilience and growth through smarter technology, and unlocking the secret to getting your small business on page one of Google. Learn how to ensure your business is the one chosen by AI. Tune in for valuable insights and tips to enhance your business success. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode of the RNB Podcast, Michael Lester interviews Max Dagenais, founder and CEO of Heart Safe Australia. Discover how 30,000 Australians suffer sudden cardiac arrest out of hospitals each year, with a staggering 90% dying prematurely. Max discusses the critical steps to saving lives: calling 000, applying CPR, and using a defibrillator. Learn about the importance of community awareness, training, and the availability of defibrillators in reducing fatalities that surpass those from road trauma, cancer, and other causes. Tune in to find out how you can make a difference. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB episode, Michael Lester chats with Deborah Conway, tracing her eventful music career—from the 1980s with Do Re Mi and the hit "Man Overboard," through a vibrant 1990s solo run, to collaborations with her partner Zygier. They discuss the evolution of her craft, her foray into musical theatre with The Book of Life, and her 2025 autobiography. The conversation touches on themes like "Human Sounds" and the tension between human artistry and AI-generated music, as well as Conway's recent projects and the upcoming Manly Writers Festival in March 2026. They also reflect on new material, touring, and Conway's enduring influence in Australian music. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB episode, Michael Lester chats with Dennis King, a Northern Beaches artist, about the vibrant community art scene, the annual Pittwater exhibition featuring 20 artists, and the Pittwater Artists Trail open studio events in 2026. Learn about the exhibition schedule (Newport Community Centre, March 27-29) with works for sale and a fundraising silent auction, plus details on the open studio trails (July 25-26 and November 21-22, 2026). A showcase of local talent, community engagement, and opportunities to support the arts. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RMB episode, Michael Lester chats with Northern Beaches artist Michael Birk about his new album Ngarrayaw, his band The Recognisers, and how language, place, and culture shape his songwriting. Explore his personal stories, performance approach, and production insights as we spin tracks from the latest album, celebrating language, landscape, and belonging. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester chats with Katharina Pistor, professor of comparative law at Columbia University, about how legal doctrines shape capitalism and concentrate power. Drawing on her landmark works, including The Code of Capital (Princeton, 2019) and The Law of Capitalism (Yale, 2025), Katharina discusses the tensions between law, economics, and democracy, challenging the Chicago School’s dominance and exploring ways to transform the legal framework to promote more equitable wealth and opportunity. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this NBR (RNB) episode, Chrissy Mack guides you through 1968, the year the electric guitar rose from tool to voice—shaping rock, blues, and pop. Tune into a curated playlist and hear the story behind the sound that built a legend, as Chrissy traces the guitar’s ascent and its impact on a generation. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester interviews Jacqui Scruby, independent NSW MP for Pittwater. They discuss her stance on contemporary issues including anti-protest laws, policing, and civil liberties, in the wake of significant events such as the Bondi massacre and President Herzog’s visit. The conversation also covers the rise of populist polling for One Nation and contrasts with Scruby’s commitment to genuine community consultation and evidence-based policy. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB Podcast episode, Michael Lester interviews Dr. Alison Bronowski AM, a former Australian diplomat and AWPR advocate, about the case for reforming Australia’s war powers. They explore the implications of U.S. strikes on Iran, the domestic and international legality debates, and how Australia’s involvement through the AUKUS pact could shape its strategic posture and entanglements. A timely discussion on national security, governance, and the pathways for responsible defense policy. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB Podcast episode, Michael Lester interviews Josh Dawes (with Sydney energy and sustainability insights from Josh White) about the rise of ESG—environmental, social, and governance criteria—as a framework for evaluating value. From the origins in UN guidelines to its global reach, explore how ESG data guides investments across over a thousand pension funds and roughly $130 trillion in assets, the debates over greenwashing, and the ongoing political backlash in the U.S. against ESG as a driver of corporate strategy. A timely look at how sustainable investing shapes capital, risk, and the future of finance. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

Join Michael Lester in an exclusive interview with Paul Winchester, the creator and founder of Point Break Theatre, as they discuss the powerful play and upcoming classic film adaptation of A Few Good Men. Running at the Star of the Sea Theatre from March 20–29 (trybooking.com), this courtroom drama explores themes of truth, justice, honor, and loyalty. Bailey Parker and David Allsopp, the lead actors, share insights into their roles in this compelling story of standing up against power in the pursuit of integrity. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode of RNB Podcast, Michael Lester interviews Melissa Browne, a financial educator and author of Dare to Be Wealthy. Discover her approach to creating true wealth on your own terms, breaking barriers in a world often designed by men for men. Learn how women can gain financial freedom, confidence, and the power to pursue what truly matters. Join Melissa at the Manly Writers Festival, March 19–22, and start your journey toward financial independence today. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester chats with Gordon Noble, research director at the Institute for Sustainable Futures (UTS) and specialist in sustainable finance. They discuss the environmental and governance challenges of data centers—central infrastructure for AI, cloud, and the digital economy. Topics include energy and water intensity, the rapid growth projected to US$7 trillion by 2035, Australia's role as a regional hub with hundreds of centers, and the need for transparent governance to curb phantom land speculation and mask carbon footprints. The conversation explores policy, investment, and market implications for both large enterprises and SMEs as data centers become a new asset class. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Chrissy Mack speaks with Heather Davies, a talented conductor and musician, about her inspiring journey into music. Discover how she creates and travels with her shows, bringing musical excellence and passion to audiences around the world. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester interviews Ross Wilson about his new book, Lloyd Rees and the Architects. Discover the legacy of Lloyd Rees, one of Australia's most revered artists, who taught art and art history for over 40 years at the University of Sydney. Learn how his drawing skills transformed architects’ perspectives on landscape, light, and structure—an influence still alive today. Ross Wilson discusses his storytelling at the Manly Writers Festival, March 19–22—more at www.manlywritersfestival.org.au. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Chrissy Mack explores the evolution of banking—from its roots at the merchant’s bench in ancient markets to today’s impersonal financial systems. Discover how the shift from human trust to algorithms and rigid policies has affected our sense of community and connection, and the importance of restoring compassion in finance. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester speaks with Mike Pritchard, founder of the Australian Spy Museum, about his 15-year journey collecting over 2,000 genuine espionage artifacts from international intelligence agencies. Discover the fascinating world of spycraft, cyber security, and the stories behind the artifacts that reveal the secrets of espionage across the ages and countries. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester chats with Robert Rigby, a seasoned music industry executive and founder of Ambition Records. With over 15 years of pioneering strategies, Robert shares how he’s championed Australian artists, revived legendary careers like Jon English and Russell Morris, and filled niche markets in country, jazz, and classical crossover. Discover his insights into navigating the evolving music business and marketing landscape, and explore his innovative online store, GreatMusicLivesForever.com. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this candid episode, Chrissy Mack shares her passionate rant about how our banking systems have become impersonal and dehumanizing. Explore the need for compassion, integrity, and human connection in financial dealings, and how restoring our banks’ humanity can bring healing and trust back to our communities. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester interviews Ian Kemish AM, former Australian diplomat, about his debut thriller, Two Islands (Hachette 2026). Set against the backdrop of the Bosnian war, the fast-paced story follows an AFP prosecutor racing to find a witness and victim hiding in Scotland’s Hebrides. Ian shares insights from his diplomatic experience in the Balkans and his family heritage in the Hebrides, revealing how history and personal story shape this gripping novel. Don’t miss his appearance at the Manly Writers Festival, March 19–22—more at www.manlywritersfestival.org.au. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester speaks with Michael Atherton AM, a passionate musician, composer, and music educator from the University of Western Australia. Discover his lifelong journey exploring instruments and sounds across cultures, his performances with groups like Renaissance Players and Sirocco, and his collaborations celebrating Australia's diverse musical landscape. Tune in for inspiring stories, a glimpse into his creative approach, and a selection of his music. Michael will be a guest at ABC Friends, Northern Sydney, Roseville, on Thursday, March 12, at 11:30 am—join us for an unforgettable musical experience! Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester speaks with Dr. Eliza DeCourcy, an expert and seasoned curator of photography, about her groundbreaking new book, Early Photography in Colonial Australia (2025). Based on three years of extensive archival research, Eliza reveals how early photographic techniques like daguerreotypes were imported, adapted, and used in Australia between 1840 and 1860—shaping colonial identity and history. Discover how photography became a tool of colonization and its overlooked yet profound impact on Australian history. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester interviews Professor Toby Walsh, a leading AI expert from UNSW, about the recent Australian national AI plan. Toby shares his disappointment, highlighting how the plan lags behind international efforts, focusing mainly on infrastructure while falling short on skills development, SME application, and proactive regulation. Discover the challenges and opportunities facing Australia's AI landscape and the need for a more comprehensive approach. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

Join Chrissy Mack as she explores the history of rock and roll—tracing its transformations, the forces that shaped its evolution, and the lasting impact on music and culture. Then, get ready to experience the energy firsthand at the Northern Beaches Radio Rock the Radio fundraiser. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester speaks with Dave Warner, the legendary Australian musician turned best-selling author of 15 crime novels. Explore his journey from gold-selling rock star to master of crime fiction, with insights into his latest book, Sound Mind, Dead Body, and his upcoming appearance at the Manly Writers Festival (March 22-29). Discover the similarities between songwriting and writing novels, sources of inspiration, and the moral landscape of crime fiction. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester interviews Bonita Mersiades, founder and director of the upcoming Manly Writers Festival (March 19-22, 2026). With over 90 speakers across diverse genres and topics, Bonita shares the festival’s growth, community spirit, and the exciting lineup of fiction and non-fiction events at beautiful beachside venues. Discover how this independent festival continues to thrive and inspire writers and readers alike. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

Despite decades of neoliberal policies promoting growth and wealth, Australia's economy has fallen short for its people—fueling inequality, stagnant wages, and rising living costs. Bronwyn Kelly, policy analyst and founder of Australian Community Futures Planning, offers a bold critique and a call for fundamental reform. Join us as we explore her insights and prescriptions from her new book, The Public Interest Economy: Democratizing the Australian Economy. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester interviews eminent historian Mark McKenna about his latest book, The Shortest History of Australia. Spanning ten concise chapters, McKenna offers a new perspective focused on place, time, and Aboriginal lived experience, revealing stories of country that have long remained untold. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester interviews acclaimed Australian author Don Watson about his latest book, The Shortest History of the United States of America. Discover how the U.S. has struggled with unity and democracy since 1776, torn by unresolved conflicts. A compelling portrait of a nation at war with itself. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode of RNB Podcast, Michael Lester interviews Natalie Scott, a resident of Northern Beaches, journalist, writer, and teacher of creative writing. Listen as she shares insights into her upcoming memoir, A Secret Grief (Pepper Press, 2025), a heartfelt reflection on her childhood in 1930s Sydney. Through evocative storytelling, Natalie explores her family’s upheaval, her complex relationship with her mother, and the enduring support of her father—painting a lyrical picture of memory, identity, and healing. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode of RNB Podcast, Michael Lester sits down with Graeme “Buzz” Bidstrup to celebrate his remarkable five-decade career in rock music. From his legendary work with The Angels and Gang Gajang to extensive tours across the U.S. and Europe, Buzz shares candid stories and insights from his new memoir, No Secrets (Harper Collins, 2025). Plus, discover his deep connection with Jimmy Little and his ongoing commitment as CEO of the Jimmy Little Foundation, working to empower Indigenous youth nationwide. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

Join Michael Lester and Amelia Lester for the 12th installment in their series exploring the 13 studio albums recorded by The Beatles. Discover how Abbey Road marked the pinnacle of their creativity, blending individual talents into a masterful group unity amid rising tensions and an impending breakup. A deep dive into one of rock’s most iconic albums. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode of RNB Podcast, Michael Lester interviews Professor Ilan Pappe, a renowned Israeli Jewish historian from the University of Essex. They discuss his latest book, Lobbying for Zionism, which offers a comprehensive history of 150 years of Zionist lobbying efforts. Pappe argues that it has been the most successful PR campaign in history, influencing modern corporate lobbying strategies. They also explore the implications for Gaza and the future of the Zionist project beyond the current conflict. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this episode, Michael Lester chats with Bob Brown, lifetime defender of nature, founder and former leader of the Greens, long-time parliamentarian, and now founder of the Bob Brown Foundation. From his retirement in 2012 to his ongoing activism, Bob discusses his collection of essays celebrating the joys and wonders of the natural world and honoring the defenders who stand against destruction and despoliation, often at great personal cost. Known for a measured, reasonable tone, Bob speaks with passion, hope, and inspiration about conservation, democracy, and the courageous work of safeguarding our environment. Tune in for an insightful conversation that blends policy, philosophy, and the power of nature to renew and uplift. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this compelling episode, Michael Lester speaks with Cynthia Miller-Idriss, a sociology professor at American University, about the critical link between misogyny, gendered violence, and the rise of far-right political extremism. Drawing from her latest book, Man Up: The New Misogyny in the Rise of Violent Political Extremism (Princeton University Press, 2025), Cynthia explains how the 'othering' of women and marginalized groups fuels extremism and how mainstream society enforces this dangerous misogyny. She advocates for a new approach—centering gender in counter-terrorism efforts—to address the roots of violence and division. Join us for an eye-opening discussion on how gender and violence intersect in today’s world. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB Podcast, Michael Lester interviews Matt Stevens, founder of The Externals. Discover how a friendship forged in Perth’s elite SAS unit shaped the band’s intense, upbeat, guitar-driven sound, and learn about the shared culture and resilience of over twenty members who have kept the spirit alive for decades. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In light of recent shark incidents, Chrissy Mack sits down with Marine Biologist Lauren Sanderman of Humane World for Animals to explore why outdated shark nets should be reconsidered. They discuss evidence-based safety measures, innovative technologies, and practical strategies to protect beachgoers while safeguarding marine life. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this RNB Podcast, Michael Lester sits down with Dr. Tony Wood (Grattan Institute) to explore carbon capture techniques—from large-scale projects like the Gorgon gas methane injection to farm-based tree planting and soil carbon strategies. We discuss economic viability, scalability, and the role of industry and government in tackling climate change, highlighting the promise and challenges of turning captured carbon into a practical global solution. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au  

In this captivating episode, Michael Lester sits down with Blanche D’Alpuget, the esteemed author of biographies, historical fiction, politics, and crime mysteries. Now in her eighties, Blanche candidly shares her extraordinary journey—her childhood, early marriage, and career, as well as her experience as “the other woman” and her deep involvement in politics and second-wave feminism. Recently published in Fridays with Blanche (Allen & Unwin, 2025), her biography, written by Derek Reilly, offers intimate insights into her rich life, her views on men, love, the spirit world, and the ongoing quest for meaning. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, truth, and the stories that shape a life. Northern Beaches Entertainment https://northernbeachesentertainment.com.au