Culture Club
Culture Club is a weekly podcast that analyzes pop culture, the arts, and the internet. Hosted by writers and editors Jasmine Wallis and Maggie Zhou, the show offers insightful commentary on current trends and cultural phenomena. Each episode delves into topics ranging from viral moments to artistic movements, providing a thoughtful perspective on the ever-evolving landscape of modern culture.
Episodes
Friendship Wellness Gaps, Sally Rooney’s Book Ban & Bias In Traitors
Sally Rooney’s book ban, the unconscious bias in Traitors, and does your friendship have a wellness gap? Hi friends! After a quick catch-up, we get into pop culture news, including the HBO Max reunion of the CENTURY. We play a Reel from Girls Rewatch Podcast. Books by Sally Rooney will no longer be sold in the UK because of the Irish novelist's support for Palestine Action, an organisation t
Alix Earle And The Literary Crisis, The Privilege Of Logging Off & Olivia Rodrigo’s Invasive Paparazzi
Alix Earle and the literary crisis, Olivia Rodrigo speaks out about invasive paparazzi, and the privilege of being off social media. Hi friends! We kick things off with a chat about our weeks including Jas' experience at Reading Party Melbourne and Maggie's Olivia Dean concert. In other Olivia news, Olivia Rodrigo has spoken out about the paparazzi caring about her love life in a Hollywood Re
The Death Of Criticism, Cornell Seven, & Influencer “Girls”
Neighbours is being re-released for vertical video, Taylor Swift and the cult of fandom, and the Cornell 7 case. In today's episode, we begin with the news that the Australian soap, Neighbours, is returning to our screens. Our vertical screens, that is. Pete Davidson is being dragged for not understanding the influencer economy in our big year of 2026. Does he have a point? A trigger w
Robots Infiltrate Fashion, Celeb Burner Accounts & Iced Coffee Debates
The generational interview debate, celeb burner accounts, and why are robots infiltrating fashion shows? We kick off with popcorn celeb bits: Taylor Swift is back, Channing Tatum could be running a burner account, and Mary Beth Barone & Joe Awlyn are starring in a rom-com. At both Vogue World in Milan and London Fashion Week, we saw robots take centre stage, so what does this say about where t
Spring Favourites: What We’re Reading, Watching & Listening To
Spring is here, and these are our seasonal favourites: from books and music to hobbies and beauty. Let us know in the comments what you're loving as well! Forest Therapy Brat by Gabriel Smith The Ruiners by Ellena Savage Rebecca Daphne du Maurier Pool House by Mary K. Choi Alien Minority Report Sense and Sensibility Industry Widow's Bay Fiona Apple Triple
The Rise of Thoughtfluencers, Ed Vs Macklemore & Sydney Sweeney’s Ad
A new season means a new Troye Sivan track, and we are sat for the medieval music video that came with it. We reference Gladys Lai's trend piece for Vogue Australia on the rise of the Renaissance Fair. Plus, Lena Dunham is officially Mother, having had a baby via surrogate. In culture's biggest story of the week, Ed Sheeran is in strife after bowing to stadium owners and dropping Macklemore f
Opt-In Algorithms, Wimbledon Bans Influencers & Stella Lefty, Pop’s New Nepo Baby
Wimbledon bans influencers, Australia might be opting out of social media algorithms, and unpacking the Stella Lefty nepo pop-star drama. First up: Current SNL cast member Veronika Slowikowska (AKA Veronka is Cool) revealed a new singing project: Me As A Girl. Even local sleuth, Triple J presenter Abby Butler, made a TikTok on the subject. Next, Nathan Fielder has made a documentary ab
Cyberfeminism & The Internet’s Sexual History With Tech Researcher Mindy Seu
The internet's sexual beginnings, cyberfeminism, and the intersection of design, fashion and tech with author and academic Mindy Seu. Mindy Seu is an American designer, researcher, author and one of the youngest tenured professors teaching Design Media Arts at UCLA. In 2023, Mindy published the Cyberfeminism Index. What began as a public spreadsheet on the topic of cyberfeminism evolved into a boo
Are Baby Bumps An Accessory? Plus, Dolomites Style & Amazon’s Book Shredding
Amazon is burning rare books, why girls are dressing up for the Dolomites, and the pros and cons of trending pregnancy bumps. Shoutout to the state of Queensland for our slate of AI updates up top. From Australia banning AI music in the ARIA charts to Brisbane banning "smart glasses" in public pools, it's a good news week. Although, Amazon have been caught shredding rare books, so... We reference
The “Kinda Chic” & Yellow Font Epidemic, Plus Role Model’s Break-Up & Auto-Fiction Ethics
Role Model’s break-up, the ethics of auto-fiction, and how has the ‘kinda chic’ trend altered our vocabulary? Maggie is back from her Europe trip, meaning we're back with a pop culture episode for you! First up, Role Model and Dakota Johnson have broken up. But wait? Didn't she just feature on a song from his brand new album? Yes. Yes she did. Lena Dunham and Carly Rae Jepsen hav
Big Tech, Enshittification & Why AI Isn’t Inevitable, With Tech Journalist Cory Doctorow
Why the AI bubble is bound to burst, the influence of Big Tech and the concept of ‘enshittification’ with tech journalist Cory Doctorow. In today’s episode of Culture Club Chats, we sit down with Canadian-British author, activist, journalist and blogger Cory Doctorow. Cory’s work at the intersection of technology and culture reached new heights following the publication of
Cosy Fantasy Fiction & Japanese Folklore With Author Naomi Ishiguro
Cosy fantasy, famous fathers, and spinning fact into fiction, with author Naomi Ishiguro. Our guest today is British author Naomi Ishiguro. She’s the author of the short story collection, Escape Routes, and the novel, Common Ground. If her name rings a bell, it could be because her dad is the Nobel Prize-winning author, Kazuo Ishiguro. The first book from her new fantasy series, The Rainshad
Witch Hunts, Femininity & Capitalism, With Author Lucianne Tonti
The history of the witch hunts, the devaluation of female power, and how to tap into your witchy side, with Good Witch author and journalist Lucianne Tonti. Lucianne Tonti is an Australian-based fashion expert, author, and journalist. She’s the fashion editor of The Saturday Paper, sustainability editor of ELLE Australia and a contributor to The Guardian. In 2022, Lucianne published he
August Curriculum: What We’re Reading, Watching & Listening To
This week, enjoy a bonus bumper Bookmarked episode. This is what we've enjoyed watching, reading and listening to this winter. Plus, what we're looking forward to consuming in August. References: Famesick by Lena Dunham Good Witch by Lucianna Tonti Hot History Podcast Frances Ha Who Is Lily Jay? The Australian influencer Accused of Using AI in Aid Videos Australian influenc
Is ‘Cool Girl’ Content Cool? Shein’s Shady New Brand & Olivia Rodrigo’s New BF
The rise of cool girl content, Shein’s UK rebrand, and Olivia Rodrigo’s new finance bro. Olivia Rodrigo reportedly has a new beau and fans are talking about his "fake job". Who is the mystery man? In some fashion popcorn bits: Christopher Nolan banned uggs from his set, Zara has created "death" pants, and Shein has launched a brand named Musera to sell its cheap clothes without t
The Hudson Williams’ Double Standard, Zendaya’s Private Jetted Dress & AI In Media
Hudson Williams’ paparazzi blow-up, Zendaya’s private jet dress and another AI gaffe. Hi listeners! A reminder that you can receive a few extra Bookmarked recommendations on our Substack, plus you can watch this episode on YouTube. Lots of pop culture popcorn this episode, so grab your coffee/ tea and settle in. Heated Rivalry actor Hudson Williams has been accosted by Parisian p
Wasia Project On Sibling Tests, Heartstopper & Their Debut Album, Nocturne
Wasia Project sits down and opens up about sibling dynamics, new music and Heartstopper Forever.Hi listeners! A reminder that we are on YouTube AND now Substack! Consisting of siblings William Gao and Olivia Hardy, Wasia Project was formed in 2019 and grew during the COVID lockdowns when Olivia and Will were just teenagers. After two EPs and a hit track that was picked up by Heartstoppe
Celebrity Flops, Finstas & Breaking Out Of The Khia Asylum
Ashley Tisdale's Toxic Mom TV show, Zoella’s surprising life update, and Lizzo speaks out about the Khia Asylum. Hi listeners! A reminder that we are on YouTube AND now Substack! More Culture Club, woo hoo! In this week's episode, we start with Maggie's Zoella update and the TikTok comment that had her bf Tom blushing. We also chit chat about Ashley Tisdale's Toxic Moms TV show (in
Kylie Jenner’s Meta Glasses, The Surveillance State, Rebranded And Taylor Swift’s Wedding
Hi friends, Olivia Rodrigo launches an all-women festival, A24’s AI deal, and the rebranding of the surveillance state is here. Reminder: you can join the Culture Club world on YouTube and Substack! First up – we have some pop culture popcorn bits for you, including another nostalgic adaptation and more rumours about Taylor Swift's imminent wedding. Olivia Rodrigo is adding festival organiser to h
The Aestheticisation Of Loneliness, Grammys’ Asian Award & Girl Math Hits Retail
The Grammys' new controversial category, Girl Math hits the retail sector, and the problem with aestheticised loneliness influencers.Reminder, we're on YouTube and SUBSTACK.Hi friends! In this episode, we kick off with some celebrity pop culture bits, including a revelation from TikTok user Jessmess69 regarding Sarah Pidgeon and one former Culture Club Chats guest!The Grammy Awards is adding five
Our Winter Favourites: Books, Films, Music, Beauty & More
Our winter favourites, from hobbies and skincare to books and music. Cosy up with this episode on YouTube. Here are the links for our picks! Skincare Dr Jart Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Cream Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2 | Exfoliating Face Toner
Aesop Sublime Replenishing Night Masque Makeup MERIT Flush Balm Books Tillinghast by Clare Cavenagh The In Between by Chri
Gwyneth Paltrow Sells Out, Dua Lipa’s Wedding & Olivia Rodrigo’s Best Album Yet?
Hi friends, This week is a shorter episode as we have a bonus ep coming later this week! Keep your eyes peeled for our seasonal winter recommendations. You can watch this episode on YouTube. Olivia Rodrigo is coming for the Queen of Pop title with her new album 'You Seem Pretty Sad For A Girl So In Love'. We debrief and share our top picks (upon first listen). One of the most famous celebrity wedd
Gen Z’s Horror Obsession, Taylor Swift Does Disney & The Rise Of Phone-Free Concerts
The rise of phone-free shows, Taylor Swift’s new Disney song, and what’s behind Gen Z’s horror movie obsession? You can watch this episode on YouTube.Taylor Swift has written a song for Toy Story 5 –– I Knew It, I Knew You marks Taylor’s return to the country genre and was inspired by the cowgirl, Jessie. Also in music news, Phoebe Bridgers has been playing a string of phone-free pop-up shows acro
Dot Cakes, Pattie Gonia & The Demonisation Of Joy
Cynthia Erivo speaks out about Wicked, the Pattie Gonia lawsuit explained, and why are dot cakes creating discourse?Hi friends,We're back in the studio this week, so if you want to watch this podcast, head here.In today's episode, Cynthia Erivo speaks out about Wicked, the Pattie Gonia lawsuit explained, & why are dot cakes creating discourse?After a quick chat about Off Campus, we dive into pop c
Bad Aura Karma, The Dystopian Enhanced Games & Are Artists “Purging” Fans?
Pete Davidson’s messy break-up, are Harry Styles and Charli XCX purging fans, and what the hell are the enhanced games?Hi friends! After a quick catch up we jump straight into music news. Olivia Rodrigo has released a brand new single titled ‘The Cure’ and we theorise on whether Harry Styles, Taylor Swift and Charli xcx are trying to purge the fans they gained during their mega world tours. C
The Moral Panic-ification Of Olivia Rodrigo’s Babydoll Dress, Shein Buys Everlane & The Endless Shilling of AI
Shein buys sustainable brand Everlane, celebrity women are shilling AI, and unpacking the moral panic of Olivia Rodrigo’s babydoll dress.Hi friends! In today's episode, we have a quick chat about Australian Fashion Week and our trip to Rarotonga, Cook Islands with Jetstar. Want to see it for yourself? Jetstar has officially begun direct flights to Rarotonga from Brisbane. Check those and other aff
The Truths & Monstrous Myths of PMDD, With Author Emma Hardy
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, the myths and taboos of menstruation, and what happens when a mood becomes an illness, with author Emma Hardy. A few weeks ago on the podcast, you may have heard Jas' tears as she struggled to cope in the midst of a hard premenstrual dysphoric disorder (or PMDD) week. PMDD is a severe, chronic medical condition similar to PMS, causing debilitating mood and physical
Harry Styles’ Taxi Cab Theory, Meryl Streep’s Money Advice & Rebel Wilson’s Court Case
Harry Styles’ taxi cab engagement theory, the latest on Rebel Wilson’s lawsuits, and Meryl Streep’s pay rise energy. Hi friends! One of the biggest engagement stories of 2026 has landed: Harry Styles and Zoe Kravitz are betrothed after just eight months of dating. We break down the details and ask if the Sex & the City Taxi Cab Theory has anything to do with it. We reference the Harry Styles and Z
Anti-Capitalist Creativity, Quitting Their Music Label and Family Estrangement With Musician Montaigne
Today’s guest is Jessica Cerro, AKA Montaigne. Montaigne is one of Australia’s most distinct and exciting musicians. The 30-year-old has a certified platinum hit, an ARIAs Breakthrough Artist of the Year title, and represented Australia on the Eurovision stage in 2021. They also compose music for video games. Montaigne released their fourth studio album It's Hard to Be a Fish last year, and is abo
Alex VS Alix, Tween Culture Revived, Clavicular & Looksmaxxing Go Mainstream
Tween media is back, the battle of the Alexs/Alixs, and how looksmaxxing has hit the mainstream media. You can watch our episode on YouTube!Cosy season is here! After a catch-up, we discuss new media news. Glamour is launching in Australia, and W Magazine is launching WYouth, its teenage sister publication. We discuss a recent study that finds that Gen Z is the most active cinemagoing demographic.
Parasocial Fans, Coming Out Online & Being A Private Public Figure With Louis Hanson
Today’s Culture Club Chats guest is Louis Hanson. Louis is a Melbourne presenter, writer, podcaster, columnist, and comedic content creator. He’s known for his internet comedy sketches, podcast co-hosting duties on Everybody Has A Secret, and writing in publications like The Guardian, GQ, SBS and The Sydney Morning Herald. Now, he’s taking his charismatic self on the road with his first-ever inter
Tradwife Irony, The Devil Wears Vogue & Man Repeller Slop
Anna Wintour’s in her personal brand era, leave Aubrey Plaza alone, and the irony of the tradwife movement. You can watch our episode on YouTube!We start off the ep with a chat about the Melbourne Comedy Festival and Repeller's tragic Instagram AI slop buyout. Anna Wintour has fronted the cover of Vogue, alongside Meryl Streep, for the first time ever. Is this a new moment for the famous editor as
A New Beauty Standards Theory, Mahjong's Rebrand & Are Men Getting Woman'd?
Mahjong’s getting appropriated… again, a TikTok posits a new beauty standards theory, and is this male actor getting woman’d?You can watch this episode on YouTube!We're back with some chit chat about life and Emma Chamberlain's new furniture collab with West Elm.The New York Times published a story in March called Playing Games With The Decor. In the article, they profile the women behind Oh My Ma
Creativity In The Desert & Embracing Change & Self-Doubt With Courtney Barnett
In this special solo episode of Culture Club Chats, Jas sits down with the Australian musician Courtney Barnett, who has just released her fourth album, Creature of Habit. The album is all about embracing change and journeying through self doubt in your thirties via Courtney’s signature poetic lyricism and instantly recognisable indie-rock melodies. In this chat, Courtney and Jas spoke about her p
The AI Book Scandal, Hannah Montana Forever & Reboot Fatigue
The reboots we didn’t ask for, Hannah Montana’s nostalgic trip, and the world’s first major AI book scandal.Reminder, you can watch this episode on YouTube.In chit chat, Jas opens up about her week, including the media preview of KICStudio in Melbourne. In some popcorn culture news, we discuss the 13 Going On 30 reboot announcement, Strangers by Belle Burden is getting a film adaptation, You, Me &
Autumn Favourites: Books, Films, Habits, Fashion & More
Bonus ep time! Given it's a brand new season, we thought we'd sit down for a cosy chat to discuss what we're looking forward to diving into this autumn. Reminder, you can watch this episode on YouTube. Here are the links for our picks! Creativity: Milanote & 642 Things To Write AboutWhat we're reading: Femme Feral by Sam Beckbessinger Sisters In Yellow by Mieko Kawakami What we're watching: In The
#MomTok Won't Survive This, Olivia Rodrigo's New Era & The Influencer-fication Of Red Carpet Hosts
Lorde goes independent, in defence of influencer red carpet hosts, and when does reality TV become too toxic? You can watch this episode on YouTube!Olivia Rodrigo is back with a new era, while Lorde has started her own by breaking away from her record label after over 15 years. Club Chalamet is also breaking away from Timothee Chalamet after that Oscars ceremony. Jas tells Maggie about #
Inside Louis Theroux's Manosphere, Internet It Girls Are Acting, Plus How Linked Are Class & Taste?
Billie Eilish’s acting debut, Louis Theroux infiltrates the manosphere, and how linked are class and taste? In this week’s episode, we start with Cody Simpson’s recent podcast episode and discuss why all of the It Girls are using acting as a career shift. From Billie Eilish up for a role in The Bell Jar to Emma Chamberlain and Kylie Jenner in The Moment, a whole host of young It Girls are hea
Dating Rumours, Delayed Gratification & Working With Your Best Friends With The Beaches
Today’s guests are Leandra Earl and Kylie Miller from Canadian rock band, The Beaches. The four-piece band also features Eliza Enman-McDaniel and Kylie’s sister Jordan Miller. They formed in 2009, and have released three albums, Late Show, Blame My Ex, and their most recent, No Hard Feelings. You can also watch today's interview on YouTube.The Beaches' single, Blame Brett, launched them into
Harry Styles' Slow Life, Charli XCX's Mockumentary & Keeping Friends' Secrets From Your Partner
Harry Styles drops his new album, Justin Timberlake experiences the Streisand effect, and should you tell your partner your friends’ secrets? Reminder: You can now watch our podcast on YouTube. In this episode, we have a smattering of pop culture news stories from the week. To begin, Jas recommends Harry Styles' interviews with Zane Lowe and Brittany Broski's Royal Court. Next, we love when corpor
Call Her Daddy Issues, Topshop's Nostaglic Return & Why Are All Period Dramas Sexy?
Topshop’s Australian Comeback, Hilary Duff’s opens up on Call Her Daddy and why are we all obsessed with sexy period dramas?Reminder: We’re on YouTube! Hilary Duff’s “Luck… Or Something” album has dropped – and she’s riding the wave of her press tour. We listened to her ep on Call Her Daddy where they dived into her nostalgic child star years as well as her career comeback now and share our t
Alysa Liu's Joyful Nihilism, A Spiritual Lorde Experience and Manon Splits From Katseye
Our spiritual Lorde experience, Manon splits from Katseye, and how figure skater Alysa Liu’s Gold Medal win is shifting culture. PSA: There may be some tinny audio in today's episode. We're working on a solution asap for you!We recount Lorde's Melbourne tour and, in pop culture news, Manon Bannerman is taking a “hiatus” from global girl group, Katseye, for “health and wellbeing” reasons.US figure
Zayn's Never Been In Love, The Olympics' Cheating Scandal & What's The Tofu Theory?
The Olympics’ cheating scandal, Zayn Malik’s Call Her Daddy revelation and what is the tofu theory? BIG NEWS! You can now WATCH this episode. We’re officially on YouTube! Head here.Bad Bunny has won the MAGA culture war this month thanks to his NFL Super Bowl halftime performance. We break down a little of the discourse around it, as well as the impact of the culture around ‘being first’ onli
Olivia Dean Is Too Nice, The Future Of Concert Tickets & Why Is Everyone Becoming Chinese?
Hi friends!To kick this episode off, we chit-chat about some celebrity headlines, including Olivia Dean being criticised for being... too nice, and Jason Bateman’s awkward Charli XCX kids moment. Was this an embarrassing Dad moment or a representation of where the culture is when it comes to reproduction? Locally, Mecca has come under fire for using AI in a social media post promoting its Aus
Sydney Sweeney Sells Lingerie, Nicki Minaj Loves Trump & PR Relationships Suck Now
Hi friends!Nicki Minaj has hammered the final nail into the coffin that is her music career this week after outing herself as Trump's number one fan. Writer Tarla Lambert wrote a piece for the Women's Agenda on the topic titled, “Nicki Minaj thinks Trump is her ally. He sees her as his prop”. Next, Ariana Grande has been spotted in a Vogue Japan spread with an additional appendage. The AI blunder
The Over-Simplification Of Streaming, Hilary Duff's Comeback & The Biggest Celeb Feud Of 2026
Hi friends,Hilary Duff's first new album in over a decade, titled luck … or something, is out on Feb. 20. We discuss the appeal of the Disney star and how she's handling her comeback tour. Next, we’re at the stage of celebrity where even the camera people are getting swept up in controversy. The red carpet Glambot Guy AKA Cole Walliser came under fire for questioning people's ability to use his se
Harry Styles Is Back, Book To Screen Adaptations & Why Are We All Obsessed With 2016?
2026 has started with a bang thanks to Harry Styles' return. His fourth studio album, Kiss All The Time. Dance, Occasionally will be released on March 6th. Euphoria Season 3 is also back on HBO this April, and a number of book-to-screen adaptations are in the works. In Culture Shock, we discuss the cancelling of Adelaide Writers' Week after the disinvitation of Palestinian-Australian author, Dr Ra
13 Books You Should Read In 2026
Here at Culture Club, we're big readers, and after our 2025 book recap, listener Holly asked what's on our TBR piles in 2026!In this mini episode, we discuss the books we're currently reading, what's on our TBR list, and the 2026 book releases we're most excited about.Maggie:Great Big Beautiful Life - Emily HenryTruly Madly Guilty - Liane MoriartyRoot Rot - Saskia NislowGhost Cities - Siang LuThe
Toxic Mom Groups, 365 Buttons & Being Offline Is The Luxury Not Everyone Can Afford
We're back for 2026 with a fresh, new look! We discuss our new era and Jas' Instagram post sharing her feelings about building a creative project. Timothee Chalamet and Kylie Jenner are packing on the PDA at awards season, and creating discourse including GQ's take about using the term 'partner'. In Culture Shock, we break down what's going on with Ashley Tisdale's supposedly toxic mum group.As we
The Best, Worst & Most Unexpected Books Of 2025
Welcome to our last Culture Club episode for 2025! We start this chat with a pop culture year review, reminiscing on the biggest stories of the last 12 months. Then, we get into our annual book recap! Here we discuss our best, worst and most unexpected reads of the year.Jas' least favourite reads were Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao and Orbital by Samantha Harvey. Her most unexpected reads wer
Career Manifestation, Music WAGs & Meeting Your Heroes, With Presenter Daphne Berry
Daphne Berry is the host of the number one music podcast in Australia, Airing Your Dirty Laundry. Since launching in 2024, she’s welcomed a host of artists into her laundromat, from Peach PRC and Ayesha Madon, to GFlip and 5 Seconds of Summer. Married to one half of Lime Cordiale, Daphne is well and truly embedded in the Australian music scene. From her international modelling days to her stint in
Disney's AI Flop, Josh Hutcherson Is Back & Taylor Swift's Bot Campaign
Hi friends, In today's episode, we chit chat about Kendall Jenner's mountain Architectural Digest video, Zendaya and Robert Pattinson's A24 movie, and Melbourne's new DIVA exhibition. Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson have been confirmed to make an appearance in Sunrise on the Reaping confirming Jas' theory of a Josh Hutcherson renaissance. We reference a New York Times interview and the Jesse
Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban, Miley’s Engaged & Is The Tide Turning On Spotify Wrapped?
Hi friends!Miley Cyrus has confirmed her engagement to musician Maxx Morando, and the new Sunrise On The Reaping trailer is here. In Culture Shock, James Charles discovered the deep Australian lore of the Bunnings sausage sizzle.From the 10th of December, anyone under 16 in Australia won’t be able to keep or make accounts on social media apps. We discuss the pros and cons of the law and what it's
Celebrity 'Bullying', The Australia Effect Trend & Why Are We All Embarrassed?
Hi pals!In this episode, we recap some of the internet's reactions to our Wicked Instagram post, and writer Soaliha Iqbal reads from her Substack essay titled: 'Can women's bodies ever be apolitical?' Next, we have a quick chat about the TikTok Awards. Please note: this episode was recorded before the allegations of racism against the awards show came to light. We highly recommend Zee Feed's break
Charli's Substack, Sydney Sweeney's Flop Year & What's Happening With Wicked?
Hi friends!We're back from a little wedding break as Jas got hitched. After a quick debrief, we're straight into Culture Quickies.Charli XCX has published her first two Substack posts: one on creativity and one about being a pop star. We chat about Charli's emergence on the newsletter platform and break down her musings. Next, Sydney Sweeney has been having a tough year after her indie biopic flop
Lily Allen’s Divorce Album, Hailey Bieber Talks Botox & Gen Z’s Age Obsession
Hi! We missed you. We have a catch up on mic, FINALLY share our thoughts on Life of a Showgirl and discuss all things wedding and travel. Lily Allen has released the divorce album of the decade and we break down its major tracks. Hailey Bieber has shared on the In Your Dreams podcast that she's not considering botox until her 30s. Why is this so refreshing to hear? FRESHLY 20 year old pop star, So
Bridget Hustwaite On Figuring Out Thirty & When To Quit The Dream Job
Bridget Hustwaite is an author, presenter, chronic illness advocate, and host. You might know Bridget from her seven years on Triple J, or from her books How to Endo and the recently released Figuring Out Thirty. In this episode of Culture Club, we sat down with Bridget in the studio to reflect on life in her 30s, what it means to grow into yourself, and why the “dream job” isn’t always what it se
Bunny Author Mona Awad On The Fear Of Failure & Revisiting A Cult Novel
Mona Awad is one of the most influential authors of our time. She's the bestselling author of the novels 13 Ways of Looking at a Fat Girl, All’s Well, Rouge, and the cult classic, Bunny, which took off in book clubs around the world and became a BookTok phenomenon. Bunny was named a Best Book of 2019 by Time, Vogue and the New York Public Library. Bunny and Rouge are also being adapted into films.
Overcoming Decision Paralysis, Pop Girlies' Marriage Era & Influencer Diversity
Hi friends! We have another pop culture episode for you–delicious. The pop girlies are in their marriage eras. Charli XCX threw her second wedding last week while Selena Gomez tied the knot with Benny Blanco. With a number of main pop girls getting married, will their music change? It's a question writer Catherine Shannon asks in her Substack essay, 'Pop Enters Its Wife Era'.Matilda Djerf has retu
Ned Fulmer's Rock Bottom Podcast, Jimmy Kimmel's Cancellation & How Should Fashion Editors Dress?
Hi friends,Some popcorn pop culture bits to warm us up today including TSITP finale, Chris Briney's new venture, Robert Irwin is Maggie's new white boy of the month, Jimmy Kimmel is cancelled and are Ben & Jerry going through a break-up?In other news, 2022 called and it wants its scandal back. Ned Fulmer, former YouTube Try Guys member, is back in the spotlight. The Buzzfeed-turned-YouTube content
The Great 2025 Lock In, Wuthering Heights & Charlie Kirk's Tradwife Movement
Hi friends, Maggie has been travelling again, so we have a lot to catch up on! From the Wuthering Heights adaptation trailer (and ensuing literature discourse) to another celebrity engagement, we start with some popcorn-pop culture bites. Next, the news that dominated the media last week: the assassination of political podcaster Charlie Kirk. We share our thoughts on the divisive right wing figure
Traylor's Proposal, AFL's First Queer Player & Should Celebs Promote Weight Loss Meds?
Hi friends! After a plethora of fun interviews (Poh Ling Yeow! Jessica Mauboy! Indy Yelich!) we are back with a juicy pop culture episode. But first, we give you a little update on what we've been up to. After some Culture Quickie updates, we launch into the engagement news of the year: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Is it the parasocial moment of the decade? Next, former West Coast Eagles player,
Her TikTok Resurgence & Starting A Music Label With Jessica Mauboy
In 2006, a teenage Jessica Mauboy auditioned for the fourth season of Australian Idol during the show’s regional audition tour, finishing as a runner-up. Fast forward nearly two decades, and Jessica is one of Australia’s most beloved (and successful) artists. The singer has achieved six top-ten albums (including two number-ones) and 16 top 20 singles. She’s also been nominated for an ARIA a w
The Dos And Don'ts Of Solo Travel
Have you always wanted to travel alone but were overwhelmed by the thought? Or maybe the wrangling of friends in group chats meant compromising your holiday plans?In this special solo episode of Culture Club, Maggie is breaking down her dos and don'ts of solo travel. From safety as a woman to packing tips and why she's so obsessed with hopping on a flight, Maggie is sharing everything she's learnt
The Complexities & Joys Of Sisterhood With Musician Indy Yelich
Indy Yelich is a New Zealand-born indie pop artist who’s just released her second EP, ‘Fame Is A Bedroom’. The EP explores age-gap relationships, sisterhood, sexuality, and the conversations that happen behind closed doors. And, if her name sounds familiar, that’s because Indy is the younger sister of Ella Yelich, AKA, Lorde. In this interview, we chat about what it’s like to move to NY
How Poh Ling Yeow Cooked Up A Creative Life
Poh Ling Yeow has been a beloved fixture on Australian TV since her Masterchef debut in 2009. She’s hosted multiple shows, like ABC’s Poh’s Kitchen and SBS’s Poh & Co, and has authored multiple cookbooks. Now, she’s back on our screens as one of the Masterchef judges. Poh has also been nominated for the prestigious TV Week Gold Logie! You can vote for Poh here until 7pm on Friday August 1. In this
AI's Fashion Infiltration, Charli XCX's Brat Wedding & Trisha Paytas' Baby Conspiracy
Hi pals! Strap in, cos we have a whole host of Culture Quickies to run through. Filming for The Devil Wears Prada 2 is officially underway with Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway papped on the streets of New York. The Trisha Paytas baby reincarnation theory continues, and has Rebel Wilson “deliberately undermined” the release of her comedy musical, The Deb?We know many Culture Clubbers have fantasised
Princess Treatment, Love Island's Racism Double-Standard & Are Men Falling Behind?
Hi pals!For the first time in ten years, the gender pay gap has flipped — at least for Gen Zs. According to a recent report, full-time working Gen Z women between the ages of 16 and 24 are out-earning their male peers. But is everything what it seems? We discuss the findings and our own thoughts on the rhetoric around men being "left behind". Jas references this TikTok.Courtney Palmer (@court
Am I A Bad Friend If I Don't Reply To Your Message?
Hi! After culture quickie bites, including Maggie's matcha TikTok take and the media's response to Bob Vylan's Glastonbury protest, we dive into the P Diddy verdict announced this week. This segment includes a reference to The Cut's article titled Maybe Me Too Is Really Dead by Andrea González-Ramírez. Do you feel the pressure to be always digitally available? It’s a question Sydney writer, M
The Devil Wears Amazon: Anna Wintour Departs Vogue & Bezos' Tacky Wedding
Hi friends! Welcome to Culture Club. In this week's ep we have pop culture bites that we NEED to discuss with the class. First up, the new Sense and Sensibility adaptation starring Daisy Edgar-Jones has been announced. Plus, author (and Culture Club Chats alumni) Diana Reid worked on the screenplay! Huge. Next, Olivia Rodrigo had her movie moment as she spotted at Glastonbury singing along with th
She Said, She Said
Hi friends! The Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders have had a pay increase and Jojo Siwa says she felt pressured to come out as a lesbian. We reference the Cosmopolitan article 'Prestige Won’t Pay My Rent' by Cait Emma Burke. Next, actress and advocate Jameela Jamil says she's done being interviewed by women. After an interview with The Times UK, Jameela took to social media and her Substack to share that
Climbing Cringe Mountain
Maggie shares some field notes from her Europe trip as she chats from Paris! Oui oui. We discuss Choice's SPF findings, which had the country stressing, and a local celebrity sighting. There’s been more Sabrina Carpenter outrage this week after she announced her new album, Man’s Best Friend. From violence against women to puritan culture and using pop stars as a scapegoat for our anger at the worl
2025 Bride: The Cult Of Wedding Planning & How To Not Get Sucked Into Microtrends
In this special solo episode of Culture Club, Jas gets candid about all things wedding. From planning to the pressures of being a bride thanks to social media, Jas shares the tips that have been helping her and answers your burning wedding questions. Jas references a reel by fitness coach and content creator, Laura Girard. HUD Skincare clinic in Northcote and St Kilda, Melbourne is where Jas is ge
The Cult Of Beauty With Author Chloe Elisabeth Wilson
Our live Melbourne Writers Festival recording with debut author Chloe Elisabeth Wilson is here!Chloe Elisabeth Wilson is the author of debut novel, Rytual, a story about aimless 20-something Melburnian Marnie Sellick. She gets swept up into the glamorous world of Rytual Cosmetica, a beauty brand where everything is not what it seems and Friday Night Drinks are very important. Marnie embarks on a j
All Girls Want Is To Collect Postcards
Hi friends! Lorde has had an interesting first press cycle moment for her forthcoming album, Virgin. We speak about the Rolling Stone comments and whether Lorde's ovulation sentiment is veering into right-wing territory. We reference a Glamour UK article by Chloe Laws. Next, Australian Fashion Week has been... a lot. We break down Maggie's TikTok video and ask who fashion week is actually for? It
Where Are All The Thinkers?
Hi friends! This week we’re basking in the literary glow of the Melbourne Writers Festival, and feeling the pre-event buzz of AFW (Australian Fashion Week). After our catch-up, we dive into our chit-chat of the week including the latest Harry Styles’ sighting, and an update on Maggie’s White Boy of The Month. In our Culture Shock, the partner of disgraced Theranos founder Elizabeth
Pushing Boundaries With Spacey Jane
Spacey Jane doesn’t really need an introduction – this Australian indie rock band has stolen the hearts of fans here locally and globally. As a result, band members Caleb Harper, Peppa Lane, Ashton Hardman-Le Cornu and Kieran Lama have quickly risen to the heights of Australian music royalty.Spacey Jane scooped up an ARIA for their hit song, Booster Seat, which also made it to number two in T
What The Hell Is 'Money Dysmorphia'?
Who is Maggie's new White Boy of The Month, and why is one of Australia's biggest radio networks using an AI host?? We reference Stephanie Coombes' Substack on the topic. Next, South Asian clothing has been pulled into the fashion limelight recently, and has once again become the subject of cultural appropriation discourse. We discuss what the new conversation is and why TikTok's 'Scandi Sum
Extra Terrestrial
We have a new home! Yep, we've officially signed to One Daydream Network. You'll be hearing some fresh segments, fun new voices and seeing more of us. We can't wait to take the pod to new heights! In our first ep in the studio, we share our thoughts on Coachella, Lorde's new music and Matilda Djerf's latest scandal (yes, there's another one). Of course, we also had to chat about
Gen Z Climate Activism With Anjali Sharma
Anjali Sharma was just 15 years old when, in 2021, she launched a landmark federal court case against the Australian Government. As one of the lead plaintiffs, Anjali argued that the then-Minister for the Environment, Sussan Ley actually had a duty of care to protect young Australians from the impacts of climate change, particularly when approving new fossil fuel projects. While the court or
