Join Michael Lester as he sit down with Hugh Mackay AO, a social psychologist, researcher, and commentator with over sixty years of experience. Hugh discusses his latest book, Just Saying: Personal Reflections on 25 Famous Quotes (Allen & Unwin, 2025), sharing his collection of essays that challenge and inspire us to rediscover the importance of connection and community—elements we’ve often lost in modern life. Hugh will also be appearing at Glen St Theatre, Belrose, on Wednesday, 5 November, to present and discuss these powerful ideas. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on how we can build a better, more connected society.

In this exciting episode, Chrissy Mack interviews the talented and upcoming band Astrovan. Discover how they started, their journey to winning a major competition, and how performing gigs has helped them grow as musicians. Plus, hear about their special role as the opening act at the grand opening of Collaroy Theatre—an iconic heritage-listed Art Deco venue, and their mission to help save this historic landmark. Tune in to meet the future of rock and roll from the Northern Beaches!

Hosted by Chrissy Mack, this episode features an inspiring interview with Dragana Ana Kardum from Northern Beaches Multicultural Communities. She shares her journey of moving to Australia before the war broke out, and how she had to stay when she couldn’t return home. They discuss the challenges of raising children in a multicultural society and the vital services organizations provide. Plus, Chrissy shares her passionate rant about recent protests at Sydney’s Parliament House. Tune in for an honest look at multicultural Australia and community resilience.

Join Brad Griffith on Radio Northern Beaches as he interviews Caleb Foster, exploring his journey as a dad and his passion for music. Discover how family and music inspire Caleb’s life, and get an inside look at his creative process and personal story.

Join Chrissy Mack as she dives deep into the early days of Susie Smithers and Robert Jefferies, collectively known as The Vallies. Discover interesting facts about their journey, the challenges they faced, and how their careers have evolved over the years. Tune in to hear inspiring stories from their past and insights into what they’re doing now.

Join Michael Lester from Radio Northern Beaches as he discusses with Ceridwen Dovey, author of Only the Astronauts (Penguin, 2024), her award-winning work blending science, imagination, and philosophy. Dive into her insights on space as a global commons, human motivations, morals, and our behaviors reflected in space exploration. Through playful yet profound storytelling, Ceridwen explores our hopes, failures, and the belief that humans are both lovable and loving—even as we fall short of our ideals.

Join Maria Mai from Radio Northern Beaches as she interviews Petros about the transformative power of art therapy. Discover how the creative process—whether drawing, painting, or sculpting—can help explore feelings, resolve conflicts, and boost self-awareness. Learn how art therapy offers a unique path to healing and emotional well-being.

Join Chrissy Mack on Radio Northern Beaches as she shares her candid and controversial thoughts on the ongoing Green Bin food waste trial happening across the Northern Beaches. Dive into the issues surrounding council spending, the environmental impact, and the paradoxes of plastic and waste management. Don’t miss this bold discussion on local sustainability and community choices.

Join Maria Mai from Radio Northern Beaches as she interviews Liz Taylor about her inspiring career change—from her days in the entertainment industry to becoming a heartfelt marriage and funeral celebrant. Discover how Liz’s passion for helping others find joy and comfort led her to a new calling, bringing beauty, meaning, and hope to life's most important moments.

Join Michael Lester from Radio Northern Beaches as he interviews Lynette Russell, AM, renowned anthropological historian and co-author of Innovation: Knowledge and Ingenuity. Discover how First Nations Australians have pioneered innovation for over 65,000 years—adapting through migration, ice ages, and colonialism. Celebrate their incredible achievements in sustaining and evolving culture through knowledge and ingenuity, making them among the world's earliest innovators.

Join Chrissy Mack on Radio Northern Beaches as she chats with Josh Keys, a talented student from Ultimo Music College (TAFE). Discover his passion for music, the journey through his studies, and the stories behind his songs. Tune in for an inspiring glimpse into a young musician’s path and creative inspiration.

Join Michael Lester from Radio Northern Beaches as he interviews James Carleton, the long-time presenter of ABC Radio National’s God Forbid. With a distinguished career as an award-winning international affairs reporter, James discusses how religious and ethical programming has transformed over the past century of national broadcasting. Discover how he approaches tackling contemporary issues from diverse religious and ethical perspectives, and gain insights into how media can foster understanding and dialogue in a complex world.

:Join Chrissy Mack on Radio Northern Beaches as she interviews Elise Balsillie, Head of Thryv Australia and New Zealand. Discover five practical ways to look after your online reputation and learn how AI can help your small business become more human and connected. Tune in for expert tips on building trust and standing out in the digital world!

Join us on Radio Northern Beaches for an inspiring episode of The Grit Diaries as we sit down with Karen Arthur, Ambassador for The Women’s Resilience Centre. Despite facing numerous life challenges, Karen’s warmth, vivacity, and unwavering resilience shine through as she shares her powerful story of supporting others in need, especially in the fight against suicide. Discover how her optimism, humor, and commitment to self-care inspire hope and change within the community and beyond. This is a story of tenacity, compassion, and the strength to keep going—no matter what.

Join Michael Lester from Radio Northern Beaches as he interviews Sydney-born jazz vocalist, songwriter, and musician Gregg Arthur. With years of experience performing in Las Vegas and San Francisco, Gregg has honed his craft listening to the great jazz masters. Now back in Sydney, he continues to perform, write, and record both locally and internationally. In this episode, Gregg shares his approach to jazz singing and songwriting, and gives us a sneak peek of his upcoming album, Faded Pictures. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation and musical journey!

Join Michael Lester from Radio Northern Beaches as he interviews Rod Willis, the legendary manager of Cold Chisel for over 30 years. Rod shares his incredible journey through the world of music and mayhem—from his upbringing in Sydney’s vibrant music scene, to swinging London and the UK in the 60s as a roadie, and touring the US before returning to manage one of Australia’s greatest rock bands. Discover how Cold Chisel, once dismissed by record companies, became an iconic force in Australian music—featuring hits like Khe Sanh and Choirgirl. Hear stories behind the music, the band’s rise, and the man behind the legend.

Join Maria Mai from Radio Northern Beaches as she chats with star Amber Lawrence about her energetic music that encourages you to let loose and dance. Discover how Amber’s songs inspire joy, freedom, and movement, and hear about her journey and passion for connecting with fans through lively, uplifting sounds. Then, Maria welcomes Chuck Sics, a renowned multi-instrumentalist from Sydney, to talk about his musical journey and his latest single, “I’ve Been Thinking,” from his new album Slip Stream. Find out what drives Chuck’s creativity and how his versatile talents shape his fresh, inspiring sound. Tune in for an episode full of music, inspiration, and great stories from two talented musicians!

Join Michael Lester from Radio Northern Beaches as he catches up with Sue Heins, Mayor of Northern Beaches Council, on a wide range of local issues. From beach pollution, erosion, and shark nets to housing development, e-bike police blitzes, and regulating illicit tobacco and vaping outlets—this conversation covers the pressing concerns shaping our community. Also, learn about council finances, community grants, and how the local government is working to keep the Beaches safe, sustainable, and vibrant.

Join Chrissy Mack on Radio Northern Beaches as she interviews Maggie Scott, aka "Maggie Australian Maid." Renowned for her stunning vocals and hilarious comedy routines, Maggie delivers a dynamic, self-contained entertainment experience. With twelve industry awards and a style rooted in personal storytelling, she’s a true Australian talent blending laughter and music. Don’t miss this inspiring chat with a performer who’s redefining entertainment!

Join Michael Lester from Radio Northern Beaches as he discusses with CSIRO ecologist Dr. Robert Godfree his latest book, Drought Country (CSIRO, 2024). This environmental history spans three centuries of droughts that have profoundly impacted Aboriginal, colonial, and modern societies, shaping the land, water systems, and ecology of Australia. Discover why, despite these devastating lessons, we continue to make the same mistakes—and explore what lies ahead as droughts become more severe and unpredictable. A crucial conversation on the past, present, and future of drought in Australia.