In this episode, Aaron sits down with one of the key figures behind the ABC’s programming success — Roberta Allan, Head of Programming, Acquisitions and Streaming.

With a strong start to 2025 already under its belt — including hits like The Newsreader, The Piano, and the upcoming return of Bay of Fires — the ABC is in full stride, and Roberta is right at the centre of it all.

She oversees the content strategy for ABC iview and all broadcast channels, playing a critical role in acquisitions, programming, and commissioning. Roberta is also a friend of the podcast, and we’re thrilled to welcome her back.

In this jam-packed conversation, Aaron and Roberta cover:

• The ABC’s strong start to the year, including The Newsreader, Muster Dogs, and The Role of a Lifetime
• Sunday nights as a strategic focus for major programming
• The ongoing importance of legacy programs like Australian Story, Four Corners, and Media Watch
• Behind the scenes of The Piano and how the ABC landed Harry Connick Jr.
• The unique tone of Bay of Fires and why it resonated with audiences
• Why Father Brown moved to an earlier Saturday timeslot
• What’s coming in Q3 across drama, factual, entertainment, and kids’ content
• How ABC balances iview streaming success with traditional TV ratings
• A look ahead to Q4’s big titles including The Assembly, Austin, Portrait Artist of the Year, and I Was Actually There
• The role of data in programming strategy — without commercial pressures
• How international co-productions are helping tell Australian stories globally
• The future of ABC Kids and what's next for children's programming
• Ensuring diversity on-screen and behind the scenes
• How ABC measures audience satisfaction beyond ratings
• Viewer surprises — which shows outperformed expectations
• What new iview exclusives are around the corner

It’s an insightful look at the evolving world of public broadcasting, programming trends, and what makes ABC content tick in 2025.

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