Drumroll....We're launching News Club! Before the first episode drops next week, Kate and Claire take a look back at how they met, how The Squiz started, and the journey that led us to here. Follow @thesquiznewsclub on Instagram

Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS The most clicked article this week was on the coastal grandma trend ABC's article on the AI-generated image of MP Georgie Purcell Read this SMH article on shark attack survivors Watch Nemesis on ABC iView Listen to The Front's episode with journalist Yoni Bashan Hosts: Claire Kimball & Kate Watson Producer: Annelise Taylor

In our final Year Ahead ep for 2024, Claire and Kate talk with sports journalist Abbey Gelmi and The Project host Georgie Tunny about their sports news predictions for 2024. They chat about the Paris Olympics, the exoneration of Peter Bol, and the big 'bin-fires' of 2023... Listen to Abbey and Georgie's podcast, Two Good Sports, and follow them on Instagram. Buy The Thursday Murder Club series here Watch Lessons in Chemistry on Apple TV and The English Game on Netflix (correction from: The Gentleman's Game). Listen to Take Me to Your Leader here and Empowering Leaders with Luke Darcy here Know someone who'd enjoy the way we do news? You telling them about us is the only present we need... go on, give us a plug. Or leave a review!

Today, Claire and Kate talk with Helen McCabe, the former editor of Australian Women's Weekly and founder of Future Women. They chat about the number of female politicians at the top of their game, the big changes to workplace gender equality laws, and housing. Squiz listeners can redeem a free FW Red membership valued at $48 using the code SQUIZ2024 Read Helen's speech at the Andrew Olle Media Lecture here Watch the Beckham doco on Netflix Follow Helen McCabe on Instagram Know someone who'd enjoy the way we do news? You telling them about us is the only present we need... go on, give us a plug. Or leave a review!

We're talking with our friends in the news about what stuck with them in 2023 and their predictions for 2024, with 4 special episodes across January. Today, Claire and Kate talk with AFR fashion and lifestyle editor, Lauren Sams, about the big Aussie fashion and business news, fast fashion, and the return of the concept store. Next up - Helen McCabe, ex-editor of the Australian Women's Weekly and founder of Future Women Follow Lauren Sams on Instagram Read Lauren Sams' interviews with Kayla Itsines and Tom Parker Bowles Listen to the Articles of Interest podcast here Watch Kingdom of Dreams on AppleTV+ Know someone who'd enjoy the way we do news? You telling them about us is the only present we need... go on, give us a plug. Or leave a review!

We're talking with our friends in the news about what stuck with them in 2023 and their predictions for 2024, with 4 special episodes across January. Today, Claire and Kate talk with Sammy J, ABC radio host and comedian, about the Referendum, the return of Neighbours, AI, and the future of media. Next up - Lauren Sams, the fashion and lifestyle editor at the Financial Review. Follow Sammy J on Instagram or Facebook Check out his reading recommendation - Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman Know someone who'd enjoy the way we do news? You telling them about us is the only present we need... go on, give us a plug. Or leave a review!

Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS A visual explainer from the ABC on the conflict in the Red Sea Is the world in a democracy recession? - Stanford Send us your 2024 news predictions Claire's recommendations are Netflix's WHAM! doco and these $25 jogger jeans from Kmart Kate's recommendations are The Deepest Breath and the Bluey Cricket episode #Sponsored: Find out more about Woolworths teaming up with OzHarvest here. Hosts: Claire Kimball & Kate Watson Producer: Annelise Taylor

Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS The most googled search terms in 2023 David Crowe wrote this piece about Australia's vote in Israel-Gaza- The SMH Squiz Kids' podcast episode on media literacy Watch Ukraine: Forged in the Fire on Nine Listen to WSJ's podcast episode on Republican Presidential candidate Nikki Hayley #Sponsored: Find some Woolworths Fresh Ideas Magazine recipes here Hosts: Claire Kimball & Kate Watson Producer: Annelise Taylor

Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS The most clicked link was this article on the new IOS update How Victoria is really governed - The Age Taylor Swift's interview with Time Magazine for Person of the Year Jewish families confront the generational divide over Israel - NYT Claire's foot cream recommendation Hosts: Claire Kimball & Kate Watson Producer: Annelise Taylor

Looking for your weekly explainer? It's got a new home over on The Squiz Today podcast feed. Just search 'Squiz Today' in your podcasting app, and hit follow. The Squiz Today podcast is a daily news podcast designed to fit into your morning routine. In a 10 minute listen we'll get you across the main Australian and international news stories of the day. It's like your smart friend taking you through it, always with a quirky/good news story or two as well. Opinion-free, agenda-free news, with a touch of analysis and an eye on what's coming next. As for News Club? Watch this space... and in the meantime, enjoy Kate and Claire taking you through the week in news and what's ahead, each Saturday in the Weekly Wrap. News Club is the place for conversations about news.

Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS The lead negotiator for the release of Thai hostages spoke to Sky News Harriet Alexander (SMH/ The Age) wrote this piece on the Lehrmann defamation trial The letter signed by over 300 Australian journalists to media outlets Watch Cliffy on ABC iView Sponsored: Woolies has the little things that help make Christmas special Hosts: Kate Watson and Claire Kimball Producer: Annelise Taylor

World leaders will be gathering in Dubai for COP28, the annual United Nations conference on climate change. It's the biggest event on the climate calendar, and this year's meeting comes at a fascinating moment for the climate – with wildfires, storms, and heatwaves felt across the last 12 months. In this episode, we look at what COP28 wants to achieve, as well as Australia's current climate policies. Squiz recommends: The Uninhabitable Earth, a book by David Wallace-Wells The latest Squiz Kids episode on climate change #sponsored: Study a course with Monash Online. Designed by those who change it. Find out more at: https://online.monash.edu/contact/ Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Welcome to season 2 of How Far We've Come, our short series on the big moments that have shaped Australia, plus a look at the challenges we face today. This week, we're diving into the 2011 Gonski reforms....the big personalities, how it has played out, and what's coming up. A special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here. Want more How Far We've Come? Find all episodes and written content here.

Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS Vogue's profile on Jeff Bezos and his fiance, Lauren Sanchez The Guardian's long read on Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu Watch Nyad on Netflix Why Treasurer Jim Chalmers went on the wagon - Good Weekend Kayla Itsines is finally ready to talk now - AFR #Sponsored: Find the Woolworths Group Regional Report at www.woolworthsgroup.com.au Hosts: Kate Watson and Claire Kimball Producer: Annelise Taylor

25 November 2023: Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS Vogue's profile on Jeff Bezos and his fiance, Lauren Sanchez The Guardian's long read on Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu Watch Nyad on Netflix Why Treasurer Jim Chalmers went on the wagon - Good Weekend Kayla Itsines is finally ready to talk now - AFR #Sponsored: Find the Woolworths Group Regional Report at www.woolworthsgroup.com.au Hosts: Kate Watson and Claire Kimball Producer: Annelise Taylor

Welcome to season 2 of How Far We've Come, our short series on the big moments that have shaped Australia, plus a look at the challenges we face today. This week, we're diving into the story of NAPLAN, the controversies, the results and what lies ahead. A special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here. Want more How Far We've Come? Find all episodes and written content here.

Internal troubles at OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, have led to its high profile CEO Sam Altman being sacked – followed by scrambled efforts by investors to reappoint him. It's a messy corporate story with consequences for AI and one of the world's most important tech companies. Squiz recommends: Reading: The New Yorker profile on Altman, from back in 2016. Listening: Our Squiz Shortcut on artificial intelligence from June, if you want to get your head around the basics. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

18 November, 2023 - Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS Our 2023 Women and News report Evacuation is a 3-part series about the UK military’s evacuation of Afghanistan’s capital Kabu on ABC Kylie Moore Gilbert wrote this piece about her experience as a hostage ABC's 7:30 segment on how Israel and Gaza tensions are playing out in Australia Robbie William's new doco series is on Netflix Watch Liberals in Power on Sky The Buccaneers is on Apple TV+ #Sponsored: Angas Park's apricot and thyme recipe is here

In our last Squiz Shortcut, we talked about the road Taylor Swift has taken to the top. In Part 2, we're going deep on why her music is so good; her relationship with her fans; and her wealth and business savvy. Squiz recommends: The Bloomberg article we mentioned, for a breakdown of Taylor’s net worth Netflix's Miss Americana from 2020 Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Welcome to season 2 of How Far We've Come, our short series on the big moments that have shaped Australia, plus a look at the challenges we face today. This week, we're diving into the journey from limited access to free uni... and we talk HECS. SA special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here. Want more How Far We've Come? Find all episodes and written content here.

11 November, 2023: Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS A profile on Glenn Maxwell and the video of him cramping during his double-century. The Guardian's piece on the benefit of talking to strangers Barbra Streisand's interview with Vanity Fair. You can also read an excerpt of her memoir here #Sponsored: Sunbeam’s pearl couscous salad recipe is here

Taylor Swift is a pop icon… Not only has her new music been lauded by the critics, she’s on a record breaking tour and remaking the rules when it comes to her back-catalogue of hits. In this episode, we lay the groundwork for how Taylor got to icon status. Squiz recommends: Delicate – from Reputation All Too Well: The Short Film – from Red (Taylor's Version) You're On Your Own, Kid – from Midnights Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Welcome to season 2 of How Far We've Come, our short series on the big moments that have shaped Australia, plus a look at the challenges we face today. This time around we are diving into the big education moments, starting with the birth of free, compulsory, and secular education. A special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here. Want more How Far We've Come? Find all episodes and written content here.

Welcome to season 2 of How Far We've Come, our short series on the big moments that have shaped Australia, plus a look at the challenges we face today. This week, we're diving into the rise of TAFE and what it means for the future of our workforce. A special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here. Check out the Australian skills priority list Want more How Far We've Come? Find all episodes and written content here.

November 4, 2023: Weekly Wrap is a look at the week in news, and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it's s all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS The 2024 Australian Fire Fighters Calendar Check out Mathews Perry's book Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing Listen to the BBC podcast episode on the Battle of Dis-information Read the New Yorker piece on Hamas and propaganda Our Squiz Shortcut on the what's what of summits Our Squiz Kids episode on the Israel-Hamas conflict #Sponsored: Sunbeam’s Australian Fruit Cake recipe is here Hosts: Claire Kimball & Kate Watson Producer: Annelise Taylor

Hosted by the OG Squiz team, Kate Watson and Claire Kimball, News Club is the place to go for conversations about the news. The Weekly Wrap is like the weekend newspaper in audio form. We take you through the big news stories from the week that was, what's coming up, and the stuff we're reading, watching and listening to. And from early 2024, News Club launches. It's a weekly podcast dedicated to one news topic, sort of like a book club for news... 

As the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza continues to unfold, one major question is whether Israel’s northern neighbour Lebanon will be dragged into the war by Hezbollah, the anti-Israel Islamic militant group that’s based there. So in this episode, we look at the history of Lebanon, and the role Hezbollah might play in the conflict. Squiz recommends: The Council on Foreign Relations and their explainer on Hezbollah A piece from Dr Julie Norman on Hamas and Hezbollah Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Sam Bankman-Fried is on trial, accused of one of the biggest frauds in American history. In this episode we look at the rise of crypto's former golden boy, and his spectacular collapse. Squiz recommends: Search Engine's episode on where the money went Judging Sam, the podcast from veteran journalist Michael Lewis, who was profiling Bankman-Fried during the collapse of his crypto exchange. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Introducing the Weekly Wrap - the week in news, and what’s coming up. Hosted by the OG team of Claire Kimball and Kate Watson, it drops at 6am Saturday morning and is all about helping you stay on top of the news + we give you some talking points for the week ahead. (Psst: For those who listen to the Saturday Squiz it’s the same, with a fresh new name and look...) Looking for more? Check out our Saturday Squiz newsletter. Click here to get it in your inbox each weekend. LINKS Read this profile on New Zealand's new PM Christopher Luxon Read two analyses of the Voice referendum results by The Australian's Janet Albrechtsen and Guardian Australia's Katharine Murphy and Josh Butler Watch Take 5 With Zan Rowe's episode featuring Natalie Imbruglia Read Lauren Sams' article on how to iron linen - Australian Financial Review (paywall) Get involved in the Uber x Red Cross Clothing Drive And we'd be over the moon if you could fill in our survey Hosts: Claire Kimball & Kate Watson Producer: Lara Robertson

We'd be over the moon if you could complete our survey. You can fill it out here.

The votes are in, and so is the analysis. In this Squiz Shortcut, we break down the geography of the vote, and what the major players say are the next steps after a resounding 'No'. Squiz recommends: Browsing: We're big data nerds, and luckily for us, the referendum result provided plenty. The Sydney Morning Herald/The Age has taken a deep dive into how the vote divided Aussies by income and education.   Reading: You might not know that South Oz is well on the way to establishing its own state-level Voice to Parliament - so here’s an article explaining how that’s going to work.  Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Want opinion-free, agenda-free information on the Voice and the Referendum? We've got you covered with our resource centre here. If you found it useful, please share it with your people. Got a question for us? Ask it here or send us an email at hello@thesquiz.com.au. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Hamas militants launched a huge attack against the state of Israel in the latest in a long history of conflicts between Israelis and Palestinians. But it wasn't just another attack… Experts say what’s happened is ‘unprecedented’, and Israel has declared war. Squiz recommends: A map of the conflict from Reuters The Guardian's photo gallery from the weekend Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Want opinion-free, agenda-free information on the Voice and the Referendum? We've got you covered with our resource centre here. If you found it useful, please share it with your people. Got a question for us? Ask it here or send us an email at hello@thesquiz.com.au. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

New Zealand is heading to a general election on the 14th of October, in a vote that’s predicted to see a big shake-up of the Kiwi government. It’s also the first election since the former PM Jacinda Ardern stepped down. So ahead of the election, we’re going to look at some of the key issues, as well as the many parties that could form a coalition government after New Zealand votes. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

In this episode we cover questions about the wording of the proposal, how other nations have done constitutional recognition, and the difference between a referendum and a plebiscite. Want opinion-free, agenda-free information on the Voice and the Referendum? We've got you covered with our resource centre here. If you found it useful, please share it with your people. Got a question for us? Ask it here or send us an email at hello@thesquiz.com.au. Other things we do: Squiz Shortcuts - a weekly explainer on big news topics Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Rupert Murdoch has named his successor: his eldest son Lachlan Murdoch. The announcement comes as Rupert gets set to step down from his management roles with his global media empire in mid-November at the age of 92. In this Squiz Shortcut, we’re going to look back at the power Murdoch accumulated as one of the biggest news proprietors in the world; plus the challenges Lachlan faces as he leads the businesses into their next chapters. Squiz recommends: Journalist Paddy Manning's biography of Lachlan Murdoch, The Successor Wondery's podcast British Scandal on 'The Murdoch Phone Hacking Scandal' Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

In this episode we cover the issue of campaign funding, who will represent the Voice, and how to postal vote if you can't get to the voting booth on 14 October. Want opinion-free, agenda-free information on the Voice and the Referendum? We've got you covered with our resource centre here. If you found it useful, please share it with your people. Got a question for us? Ask it here or send us an email at hello@thesquiz.com.au. Other things we do: Squiz Shortcuts - a weekly explainer on big news topics Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

The referendum on enshrining an Indigenous Voice to Parliament into Australia’s constitution is coming at us rather quickly, so in this episode of Squiz Shortcuts we thought we’d step away from the headlines of the day to get to know 2 of the most prominent people of the campaign. From the ‘No’ side, Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, and from the ‘Yes’ campaign, Noel Pearson. Further watching: Pearson's Boyer Lecture Price's National Press Club address Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

In this episode we cover the issue of legal challenges, existing Indigenous bodies, and get into the nuts and bolts of voting again. Want opinion-free, agenda-free information on the Voice and the Referendum? We've got you covered with our resource centre here. If you found it useful, please share it with your people. Got a question for us? Ask it here or send us an email at hello@thesquiz.com.au. Other things we do: Squiz Shortcuts - a weekly explainer on big news topics Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

A powerful earthquake hit Morocco over the weekend, with the death toll quickly climbing over 2,000. As the search and rescue operation continues, we look at Morocco’s vulnerability to this type of disaster, and what can and has been done elsewhere to mitigate earthquake risks. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

In this episode we cover questions about improving Indigenous outcomes, how risky is constitutional change, and the ticks and crosses of your vote... Want opinion-free, agenda-free information on the Voice and the Referendum? We've got you covered with our resource centre here. If you found it useful, please share it with your people. Got a question for us? Ask it here or send us an email at hello@thesquiz.com.au. Other things we do: Squiz Shortcuts - a weekly explainer on big news topics Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

The G20 is meeting this weekend in New Delhi, India, and its a big opportunity for international leaders. So in this Squiz Shortcut we’re going to remind you what the G20 is, what it aims to achieve, and what members – including Australia – are hoping to get out of this year’s summit... Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Over the next few days you're going to be hearing a lot about the Australian Labor Party's national conference – the big Labor love-in which sets the party's policies. In this episode, we're going to dig into how the conference actually works, what might happen this time around, and how similar conferences work for the Liberals and other political parties. Squiz recommends: The ABC's list of the greatest hits and biggest moments from previous Labor Party conferences. Political Lives by historian Chris Wallace, a book about Australian PMs and their biographers.* *Buy using this link and The Squiz may earn a little commission. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

The Matildas have had a best-ever World Cup performance, progressing through to the final 4. So we thought now would be a great time to get across the history of our national women’s football team and nail down how we got to this big moment. Squiz recommends: Kieran Pender's excellent writing for The Guardian on all things Matildas. The Disney+ doco Matildas: The World at Our Feet. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

China’s foreign minister, Qin Gang, disappeared from public view in June, and after a month of speculation reports surfaced that he’d been removed from his job. Once a rising star in the Chinese Communist Party, the minister’s sudden downfall has raised questions about doing business with the world’s second biggest economy. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

We've been hearing a drip-feed of worrying economic data coming out of China, and we heard this week that their annual growth rate might fall below expectations. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we talk through why China's economy is slowing, and what it might mean for the rest of the world. Squiz recommends: The Prince podcast about Xi Jinping - The Economist The US-China trade war, an interactive graph - The Lowy Institute Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Robodebt has been in the news all week, after the Royal Commission dropped its final report into the illegal debt recovery scheme. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we take a look at the fallout for the politicians and public servants involved in the scheme, and what might change as a result of this report. Squiz recommends: The 7am podcast's 'Inside Robo-debt' series The Royal Commission's list of recommendations, and the report Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

More details are emerging about a migrant ship disaster off the coast of Greece, where an estimated 500 passengers are still missing. We take you through what we know about the boat disaster so far, as well as the latest on Europe’s attitudes towards migration. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Donald Trump has been indicted again, and it’s the first time a former US president has faced federal charges. Those charges will see Trump back in court this week, so in this Squiz Shortcut we’ll get you across what the Justice Department has claimed, why the development is so extraordinary, and what’s next. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Turkey's newly re-elected president, has made big promises but has a record of cracking down on dissent and diminishing democratic freedoms. In this Squiz Shortcut, we’ll take you through Turkey’s politics and why it matters to the West. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis, has announced that he wants to become the president of the United States. He’ll go head-to-head with another Florida resident, former President Donald Trump. With the race heating up, let's have a look at who DeSantis is, what issues he’s known for, and whether he’s got a shot to become the Republican nominee and maybe even president. Other things we do: Squiz Today - a daily podcast and newsletter that gives a fact-filled run-down of what’s making news. Squiz Kids - a news podcast for curious kids. Age-appropriate news without the nasties!

The Squiz team is on a long weekend so we thought we’d pop ‘How Far We’ve Come’ into the Shortcuts feed for any long road trips or lazy mornings you may have planned. It's a 6-part series that looks at some key moments for women on the path to financial equality and aims to give women the tools to lock down their financial freedom. In this episode, we go back to the early 1880s and The Married Women's Property Act, because there was a time when Aussie women couldn’t own their home or business. We will also take a look at how it impacts homeownership rates today and the work still to do. A special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here.

The Squiz team is on a long weekend so we thought we’d pop ‘How Far We’ve Come’ into the Shortcuts feed for any long road trips or lazy mornings you may have planned. It's a 6-part series that looks at some key moments for women on the path to financial equality and aims to give women the tools to lock down their financial freedom. In episode 2, we’re taking you back to WWII - a time that saw thousands of Aussie women enter the workforce for the first time, and the setting of women’s pay at 25% of men’s wages. This episode will explore the gender pay gap and what it means for us today. A special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here.

The Squiz team is on a long weekend so we thought we’d pop ‘How Far We’ve Come’ into the Shortcuts feed for any long road trips or lazy mornings you may have planned. It's a 6-part series that looks at some key moments for women on the path to financial equality and aims to give women the tools to lock down their financial freedom. In episode 3, we’re taking you to 1966 when the bar on employment of married women in the Commonwealth public service was abolished. It’s notable because it changed the nation's approach to allowing women to take on permanent employment. So in this episode, we’ll look at women and the fight for the right to work, and issues around participation today. A special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here.

The Squiz team is on a long weekend so we thought we’d pop ‘How Far We’ve Come’ into the Shortcuts feed for any long road trips or lazy mornings you may have planned. It's a 6-part series that looks at some key moments for women on the path to financial equality and aims to give women the tools to lock down their financial freedom. In episode 4, we’re diving into one of the watershed moments in family law. Unless you can ‘unconsciously uncouple’ like Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin, splitting up isn’t easy… It’s also something that many go through, and a factor in why women over 55yo are the fastest-growing demographic when it comes to homelessness. In this episode, we’ll talk about no-fault divorce and what it means for women’s financial independence today. A special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here.

The Squiz team is on a long weekend so we thought we’d pop ‘How Far We’ve Come’ into the Shortcuts feed for any long road trips or lazy mornings you may have planned. It's a 6-part series that looks at some key moments for women on the path to financial equality and aims to give women the tools to lock down their financial freedom. In episode 5, we’re talking about the 1984 Sex Discrimination Act - a landmark moment for Australian women. We’ll introduce Susan Ryan and talk about the bill she drafted prohibiting discrimination based on gender when it came to hiring, firing, pay, and promotion. A special thanks to our podcast partner on this series, NGS Super. Find out more about them here.

One of the biggest news stories going around is what's happening with our energy system, with Oz facing a raft of issues that have smashed supply and demand for electricity. It's a discussion that's packed with technical jargon and detail, so in this Squiz Shortcut, we get back to basics and take you through how our power grid works, what's happened to bring it to crisis point, and what can be done about it. Squiz recommends: Energy Made Easy website 5 tips on how to save energy and money See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Over the past 5 years, the Murugappan family has become the most high-profile asylum seeker case in Australia. Their fight to stay here started almost 10 years ago, and has taken many twists and turns as the couple and their 2 children fight for permanent residency after the adults' applications for refugee status were rejected. So in this Squiz Shortcut we go through the background to the case, how the Central Queensland town of Biloela took them under their wing, and what happens now that they've gone 'home to Bilo'. Squiz recommends: Why do Tamil asylum seekers need protection and why does the Australian government say they don't? - The Conversation Home to Bilo campaigners for Tamil asylum-seeking family await weekend reunion - ABC News See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Figuring out how to start and grow a business can be intimidating, so in this 4-part series, we talk to 4 Aussie businesses about what they wished they knew before they started and how they got to where they are today. In this third episode, we talk to Collective Closets about dealing with the unexpected, being able to adapt and how it can drive success. This limited series is brought to you by Square. Learn about how Square can help you to start, run or grow your business here. Check out Collective Closets on Instagram or through their website. See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Figuring out how to start and grow a business can be intimidating, so in this 4-part series, we talk to 4 Aussie businesses about what they wished they knew before they started and how they got to where they are today. In this second episode, we talk to Tribe Skincare about growing your side hustle from the kitchen bench to a fully-fledged enterprise. This limited series is brought to you by Square. Learn about how Square can help you to start, run or grow your business here. Check out Tribe Skincare on Instagram or through their website. See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

UK PM Boris Johnson is a colourful character whose career has ranged from journalist to politician, to world leader. He's been a significant figure in the UK during Brexit and has been leader throughout the COVID pandemic, which hasn't been without scandal. Having just survived a challenge to his leadership, we take a look at his life, his career, and why 'partygate' has got him into a bit of hot water. Squiz recommends: My Boris Johnson story - The Spectator Boris Johnson, the mystery man and the Bullingdon Club: Where are they now? - ITV See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In the first episode of our new Squiz Shortcut series on building a business, we take a look at the ins and outs of entrepreneurship. Figuring out where to start can be intimidating, so in this 4-part series, we talk to 4 Aussie businesses about what they wished they knew before they started and how they got to where they are today. And in this episode, we're talking to Grumpy Donuts about where it all starts: finding your big idea. Brought to you by Square. Learn about how Square can help you to start, run or grow your business here. Check out Grumpy Donuts on Instagram @grumpydonutsofficial or through their website. See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

When Anthony Albanese's claimed victory for Labor in the recent federal election, he acknowledged the traditional owners of the land and committed to delivering the Uluru Statement from the Heart in full. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we take a look at the background to the statement, what it's about, and how it might be delivered. Squiz recommends: The Uluru Statement from the Heart Treaty - Yothu Yindi (Original Version) Treaty - Yothu Yindi (Filthy Lucre Radio Edit) The 2022 federal election sees record Indigenous representation - ABC See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The 2022 federal election was quite a ride... What we saw was a result that ushers in a change of government to Labor, sends the Coalition into opposition for some deep reflection, and the arrival of the biggest crossbench the Australian Parliament has seen since WWII. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we'll get into where things have landed, the trends that delivered that remarkable result, and what's next. Squiz recommends: The path to power: How the 2022 federal election was won and lost - ABC Four Corners How the election result has changed our cities - ABC See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mike Cannon-Brookes - the billionaire co-founder of tech company Atlassian - has been making a few headlines recently off the back of his attempt to buy Australia's largest energy retailer AGL and transform it into a lean, green, power-generating and retailing machine. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we take a look at his early life, his career in business, and why he's so keen on getting his hands on AGL. Squiz recommends: Mike Cannon-Brookes’ Ted Talk on imposter syndrome Article on Atlassian's approach to remote working See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A big battle is brewing in America over the future of abortion rights after it was revealed that the Supreme Court is on the cusp of overturning a judgement that legalised terminations across the country: Roe v Wade. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we look at the landmark legal decision, the efforts over the years to overturn it, and what will happen if that occurs. Squiz recommends: 'Supreme Court has voted to overturn abortion rights, draft opinion shows' - Politico 'The Roe Baby' - The Atlantic See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The world's richest man, Elon Musk, stunned the business world when he launched a $44 billion takeover bid for social media giant Twitter. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we take a look at the backgrounds of Twitter and Elon Musk, how this transaction came about, and what's next for the platform Musk calls a digital "town square". Squiz recommends: Profile on Aussie Tesla chair Robyn Denholm - Australian Financial Review Live updates on Musk's Twitter acquisition - The New York Times See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The French have voted to give incumbent President Emmanuel Macron another 5 years in the top job. It was a decisive win, but he faces a divided nation, which is split between the haves and the have nots and differing visions about the future of France. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we run through the election result, what's happening in France, and what it means for the world, including here in Oz. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: Macron bares his 'he-vage' - https://www.news.com.au/finance/work/leaders/french-president-emmanuel-macron-turns-heads-with-bristling-carpet-of-chest-hair-exposed/news-story/0c471279134ccb29ea4256a7bda1be09 Macron's official photographer's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/soazigdelamoissonniere/ See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Before the war in Ukraine and on the eve of the Beijing Winter Olympics, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping entered into a strategic partnership to cooperate with each other and challenge the power of the West. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we take a look at the 2 countries, their shared world views, and how this new alliance has been challenged by the war in Ukraine. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: Who are Putin's daughters? (BBC) https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-61011141 Xi and Putin admire some pandas (Reuters) - https://www.reuters.com/article/us-russia-china-xi-putin-zoo-idUSKCN1T62HW See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This year, Queen Elizabeth II is celebrating her Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the British throne. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we look back at her reign, what's in store for the Jubilee celebrations, and what's next for the scandal-plagued royal family. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: The infamous 2019 BBC interview with Prince Andrew - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtBS8COhhhM The Queen (2006) - available to watch on Binge, Foxtel and Paramount+ See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Solomon Islands is poised to sign a controversial security deal that would increase China's military presence in our region, putting them less than 2000kms from Australia. It's fair to say that our government isn't too thrilled about it, so in this Squiz Shortcut, we'll get to know our Pacific Island neighbour, their recent troubles, and how China fits into it all. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: Squiz Kids' Squiz the World podcast on the Solomon Islands - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/subscriber-content-squiz-the-world-goes-to-solomon-islands/id1494238283?i=1000556272890 Australia's role in the Battle for Guadalcanal in WWII - https://www.navy.gov.au/history/feature-histories/australians-guadalcanal-august-1942 See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Federal Government handed down its latest Budget this week, including some big-ticket items designed to win your vote in the upcoming election. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we look at the health of the economy as we recover from the pandemic, the sweeteners in the Budget, and the politics of it all as we sprint to the ballot box. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: Liberal and Labor's social media take on the Federal Budget - https://fb.watch/c3r0g-hjIQ/ https://twitter.com/AlboMP/status/1508724113346469888 https://fb.watch/c3r0g-hjIQ Politics Today website - politicstoday.com.au See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

La Niña has hammered eastern Australia during the last couple of summers. Across Queensland and NSW, so many communities have experienced unprecedented flooding. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we get you across a few of the different weather systems affecting Oz, what climate change has to do with it, and what it means for Aussies going forward. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: The Australian Academy of Science website - https://7news.com.au/news/nsw/elderly-woman-93-found-floating-on-mattress-just-20cm-from-the-ceiling-in-her-flood-ravaged-home-c-5911907 Interview with a 93yo woman who had an incredible escape from her flood-ravaged home - 7News - https://7news.com.au/news/nsw/elderly-woman-93-found-floating-on-mattress-just-20cm-from-the-ceiling-in-her-flood-ravaged-home-c-5911907 See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Just a few years ago, Volodymyr Zelensky was a comedian and actor playing Ukraine’s president on television. Now, he’s a real-life wartime leader directing his country in its fight against a Russian invasion. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we look at Zelensky's early life, his path into politics, and how he's galvanised Ukrainians - and the West - behind resisting Russia. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: Watching: Zelensky on Dancing with the Stars https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TlJywp7E3Gw Reading: 'The Betrayal of Volodymyr Zelensky' - The Atlantic https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2019/12/zelensky-ukraine-impeachment/602905/ See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's been a devastating few days for Australia's cricket community and fans around the world with the deaths of 2 giants of the game, Shane Warne and Rod Marsh. So The Squiz and Sport Today have come together for this look at these icons' achievements on the field, and their lives off it. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: Vale Shane Warne: Legends recall their favourite Warnie stories - The Unplayable Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/vale-shane-warne-legends-recall-their-favourite-warnie/id1093437634?i=1000552975945 Rod Marsh's best catches - https://www.cricket.com.au/video/rod-marsh-caught-bowled-dennis-lillee-australia-test-one-day-cricket-1970s-1980s-classic/2022-03-04 Shane Warne's 50 best wickets on home soil - https://www.cricket.com.au/video/shane-warne-top-50-wickets-on-aussie-soil-countdown-highlights-greatest-moments-extended/2022-03-05 See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

As Russia pushes forward with its invasion of Ukraine, the West has been using sanctions as a key method of retaliation and punishment. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we look at what they are exactly and who imposes them, the impact of these sanctions, and Russia's reaction. Squiz Shortcuts is the backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: 'How Russian sanctions work' - The Atlantic - https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2022/02/how-russian-sanctions-work/622940/ 'As sanctions batter economy, Russians face the anxieties of a costly war' - The New York Times - https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/28/world/europe/russia-economy-sanctions-ukraine.html See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

As you well and truly know, Russia has launched a full-scale assault on Ukraine. To get you across the background to this, it's time to get to know NATO - the military alliance that is the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. It's at the centre of the stand-off between Russia, Ukraine and the West. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we’ll get you across why NATO was established, how it has operated in times of conflict, and what it has to do with this crisis. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: Smiley's People by John le Carré - https://www.booktopia.com.au/smiley-s-people-john-le-carr-/book/9780241322529.html A map of NATO's expansion since 1997 - https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-18023383 See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's been a fractious few weeks in politics as we head towards a federal election. And one of the issues that burned brightly was a new Religious Discrimination Bill. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we'll look at Australia's existing anti-discrimination laws, why religious discrimination is on the agenda now, and what the Coalition had hoped to achieve before an election. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: ABC interview with Paddy Quilter-Jones - https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-02-10/paddy-stephen-jones-son-speech/100819064 Bonegilla website - https://www.bonegilla.org.au/ See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's a part of Europe that many of us don't know much about, but the crisis in Ukraine has been in the news a lot recently. Western nations are worried Russia will invade Ukraine, but there's a whole lot of baggage that's gotten us here. So in this Squiz Shortcut, we cover the history of Ukraine's relationship with Russia, why things are at a flashpoint now, and how the US, the UK and Europe are reacting. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: Russia and the US face off over Ukraine - The New York Times' The Daily podcast Chicken Kyiv nuggets recipe See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It feels like the 2020 Tokyo Olympics were on 2 seconds ago - and they basically were because of COVID delays. But it's time to get set for the next round - the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. And there's a lot going on, including international politics, human rights issues, the pandemic, and environmental concerns. And, of course, a big global sporting event where Aussies will compete for the medals... So in this Squiz Shortcut, we cover issues like why Australia and other nations are staging a diplomatic boycott, as well as taking a look at the sporting side and Australia's chances on the podium. Squiz Shortcuts is your backstory to the big news stories. Squiz recommends: Cool Runnings movie - available on Disney+ Sport Today's Beijing Blitz podcast See /privacy for privacy and opt-out information.