Welcome to the Big Talk Book Club!

This is a special little series within The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show, where we still skip the

small talk ... but this time, we're diving into the books that really stay with us.

This conversation is with British writer Esther Freud. Esther has written 10 novels… her first book- Hideous Kinky- was based on her own life- and was later turned into a film starring Kate Winslet.

Esther is part of a famous family- her sister is the fashion designer Bella Freud… her father was the painter Lucien Freud and her great grandfather was Sigmund Freud.

In this episode we talk about her latest novel My Sister and Other Lovers. And the line

authors walk between fact and fiction.

And if you love this conversation with Esther I think you’ll enjoy my chat with Mahalia

Barnes.

LINKS:

• Holly’s new book  ’MY SISTER AND OTHER LOVERS'  is available now wherever you get your books
• If you loved this chat with ESTHER we think you'll love Jess's conversation with musician Mahalia Barnes  here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify
• Click this link to save up to 20% on Explore’s most popular small group adventures: https://www.exploreworldwide.com.au/

CREDITS:

Host: Jessica Rowe

Guest: Esther Freud

Audio Producer: Nat Marshall

Production Company: Crap Housewife 

Media & Collaboration Enquiries: Watercooler Talent 

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

Welcome to the Big Talk Book Club!

This is a special little series within The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show, where we still skip the

small talk ... but this time, we're diving into the books that really stay with us. The ones that

spark big feelings, juicy questions, and honest reflections.

In this episode is New York Times best seller Natasha Lester. Natasha writes historical

fiction, telling stories of women who have previously remained untold. The focus of our

conversation is Natasha’s remarkable novel The Mademoiselle Alliance. It’s the story of

Marie Madeline Fourcade, the only woman to lead a French Resistance network in the

Second World War.

And if you enjoyed this conversation, you’ll love my conversation with journalist Cheng Lei.

LINKS:

• Natasha’s new book  ’THE MADEMOISELLE ALLIANCE'  is available now wherever you get your books
• If you enjoyed this chat with Natasha we think you'll love Jess's conversation with journalist Cheng Lei here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify
• Click this link to save up to 20% on Explore’s most popular small group adventures: https://www.exploreworldwide.com.au/

CREDITS:

Host: Jessica Rowe

Guest: Natasha Lester

Audio Producer: Nat Marshall

Production Company: Crap Housewife

Media & Collaboration Enquiries: Watercooler Talent

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

Welcome to the Big Talk Book Club!

This is a special little series within The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show, where we still skip the

small talk ... but this time, we're diving into the books that really stay with us. The ones that

spark big feelings, juicy questions, and honest reflections.

Our first author in the series is international best selling author Holly Ringland. In this

conversation we talk about finding joy through creativity and how we need to give ourselves

permission to create. These ideas are at the heart of Holly’s latest book, The House that Joy

Built. It’s a memoir of sorts and also a unicorn toolkit to help you face your fear and spark

your imagination again. I know it’s helped me and I think this conversation will nourish your

soul too!

Holly Ringland has also written the international best sellers, The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart

and The Seven Skins of Esther Wilding.

And if you loved this conversation with Holly, I think you’ll love my chat with actor Jacqueline

McKenzie.

LINKS:

• Holly’s new book  ’THE HOUSE THAT JOY BUILT'  is available now wherever you get your books
• If you loved this chat with Melissa we think you'll love Jess's conversation with actor Jacqueline McKenzie. here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify
• Click this link to save up to 20% on Explore’s most popular small group adventures: https://www.exploreworldwide.com.au/

CREDITS:

Host: Jessica Rowe

Guest: Holly Ringland

Audio Producer: Nat Marshall

Production Company: Crap Housewife

Media & Collaboration Enquiries: Watercooler Talent

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

Samantha Harris is one of Australia’s most recognisable models and a proud advocate for Indigenous representation in fashion. From gracing the cover of Vogue as the first Aboriginal model to writing her inspiring memoir Role Model, Samantha’s story is one of courage, grace, and determination. Her career has redefined beauty standards while celebrating cultural identity and resilience, making her a true trailblazer in the industry.

In this heartfelt conversation with Jess, Samantha reflects on her journey from a shy country girl with big dreams to becoming a confident force on the catwalk and soon-to-be mother. She opens up about the powerful influence of her late mother, the lessons learned from early challenges, and the importance of staying grounded in her Aboriginal heritage. Together explore how family, identity, and inner strength have shaped her success, and how Samantha hopes to inspire the next generation to walk proudly in their own footsteps.

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• Samantha's memoir 'ROLE MODEL'  is available now wherever you get your books 

• If you loved this chat with Melissa we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Elle Macpherson here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Samantha Harris 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

For more than 30 years, Karla Grant has been a trailblazer in Australian media, a proud Western Arrernte woman whose fearless journalism has paved the way for greater representation of Indigenous voices on screen. As the host and executive producer of Living Black on NITV, Karla has dedicated her career to truth-telling, giving a platform to stories too often overlooked, and inspiring generations through her courage, authenticity, and grace.

In this deeply personal conversation, Karla reflects on facing racism as a young girl to becoming one of Australia’s most respected Indigenous broadcasters. She opens up about the moments that tested her resilience, the people who shaped her path, and the drive that continues to fuel her fight for social justice. Karla shares how turning 60 has brought new joy and perspective, and why storytelling remains at the heart of who she is, not just as a journalist, but as a woman, a mother, and an advocate for truth.

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• While Living Black has wrapped for the year, you can catch up anytime on SBS On Demand. And if you’re looking for more powerful storytelling, Karla Grant Presents showcases a curated selection of documentaries and films, each introduced by Karla, who offers her personal insights and thoughtful context to deepen your viewing experience.

• If you loved this chat with Karla we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Leah Purcell here 
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Karla Grant 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

Marianne Williamson is a best selling author, spiritual teacher, and political activist who has twice run for the Democratic nomination for the US Presidency. Her teachings on spiritual development have reached millions around the world and Oprah Winfrey describes her as ‘One of the most influential women of the modern spiritual world’. Marianne is now bringing her powerful live show to Australia, continuing her mission to awaken hearts and minds around the world.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Marianne and Jess explore the beauty and challenge of becoming at every stage of life. They dive into the gifts of menopause as a “second puberty,” the courage it takes to rise above trauma, and how to disarm self-sabotage. Marianne shares how faith, self-care, and spiritual practice can help us find peace in a noisy world. This is an episode for anyone ready to reconnect with their resilience, purpose, and inner power.

Know someone who'd  find comfort in this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• Marianne’s upcoming live series - An Evening with Marianne Williamson: The Power of Love and the Practice of Change - will invite you into a conversation on reclaiming our inner peace and collective purpose in a world increasingly marked by division, anxiety, and disconnection.

• Ticket information here: 

  • Melbourne: https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/event/130062D8AF6A233B

  • Sydney: https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/event/130062D9D8CB31EA

  • Brisbane: https://events.humanitix.com/marianne-williamson-live-inner-light-outer-change

• If you loved this chat with Marianne we think you'll love Jess's previous episodes with Melissa Leong here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Marianne Williamson 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

Mitch and Mark captured Australia’s hearts on The Block, known for their warmth, humour, and undeniable style. Beyond their television success, they’ve become advocates for authenticity and acceptance, using their platform to challenge stereotypes and celebrate love in all its forms. Together for over two decades, they’ve built a beautiful blended family and a life grounded in mutual respect, resilience, and joy.

In this candid chat with Jess, Mitch and Mark share the sliding doors moment that sparked their decades-long love story and how it shaped the life they’ve built together. They open up about navigating parenting in a blended family, the legacy of Australia’s marriage equality vote, and why joy is their answer to prejudice.

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• For front row access on all their latest projects and makeovers follow Mitch & Mark: The Joy Factor on YouTube here 

• If you loved this chat with Mitch & Mark we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Carlotta here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guests: Mitch & Mark
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

Melissa Leong is a celebrated food writer, TV host and judge, best known for bringing warmth, intelligence and honesty to Australian screens. The daughter of Singaporean-Chinese parents, Melissa has built a career that celebrates culture, creativity and courage, using food and storytelling as her way of connecting people to what really matters.

In this episode, Melissa opens up about growing up different and how feeling like an outsider shaped her sense of self, embracing individuality as a lifelong journey. She shares the importance of releasing shame that isn’t ours and the healing that comes from owning our stories with honesty and grace. Melissa also reflects on why failure is essential to growth and why learning to say no is such a vital part of her self-care.

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• Melissa's memoir GUTS is available now wherever you get your books 

• If you loved this chat with Melissa we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Julie Goodwin here 
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Melissa Leong 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

Samantha Armytage is one of Australia’s most familiar and beloved television personalities. From her years in breakfast television to her work on Farmer Wants a Wife, Sam has always brought warmth, wit, and authenticity to the screen. Now she’s back in the spotlight as host of The Golden Bachelor, celebrating second chances at love.

In this heartfelt conversation, Sam opens up about navigating grief after the loss of her mum, balancing public and private life, dealing with public scrutiny, and what it means to stay true to yourself in a media world that often prizes perfection. She opens up about aging and meeting midlife with confidence, opening her heart to love again, and finding joy in life’s next chapters, both on and off screen.

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• Catch Sam on The Golden Bachelor Mondays and Tuesdays on Nine and 9NOW

• If you loved this chat with Sam we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Rebecca Gibney here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Sam Armytage 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

In this episode, Jess welcomes back renowned psychic medium John Edward to explore the afterlife, grief, and the signs our loved ones send us. John answers your questions on spirit guides, dreams, and the purpose of souls, while sharing how pets teach us unconditional love and why signs from the other side may shift over time.

In this episode John emphasizes the importance of staying curious and open to signs, as well as the significance of understanding our purpose in life. He reveals that The afterlife is about understanding and love, not judgment, and  leads a special exercise to help you release negative energy and navigate your emotions with greater clarity

Know someone who'd  find comfort in this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• John is returning this October for his National tour, tickets and dates www.johnedward.net
• If you loved this chat with John we think you'll love Jess's previous episodes with John here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: John Edward
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

Jonathan “J.Mo” Moran is one of Australia’s best known entertainment journalists, but behind the red carpets lies a far more complex story. In this candid conversation, Jess uncovers the real person behind the headlines: JMo’s struggles with self-image, the lasting impact of childhood trauma, and what led him to become a Lifeline ambassador.

They explore the hidden costs of a glamorous career, how the loss of his close friend Charlotte Dawson reshaped his understanding of mental health, and why advocating for open, stigma-free conversations matters more than ever. JMo reflects on coping mechanisms (healthy and not), the challenges of journalistic integrity, and the role of connection, purpose, and kindness in his journey. A powerful reminder that every public persona hides a private battle, and that sharing those struggles can help light the way for others.

Content Warning: This conversation touches on substance addiction, abuse and suicide. If it raises any emotional distress for you, please reach out to someone, or call Lifeline for 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services on 13 11 14

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• JMO's book ‘Mental as Anyone’ A Toolkit for Surviving and Thriving on the Chaotic Rollercoaster of Life is available HERE 
• If you loved this chat with JMO we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Vincent Fantuzzo
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Jonathon Moran 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.