Sam Newman|1001 - Episode 377 - Part 2 - Real Opinions
You Cannot Be Serious is an independent Australian podcast hosted by Sam Newman, a former professional footballer and a long-standing figure in the country’s sports media landscape. Based in Melbourne, the program serves as an unfiltered platform for commentary on current events, sports, and societal trends. Newman, known for his career with the Geelong Football Club and his decades on television, brings a direct and often provocative perspective to a wide range of topics, ensuring the show remains a consistent source of debate within the Australian media sphere.
The podcast’s content is predominantly structured around topical chat and opinion pieces. While Australian Rules Football (AFL) serves as a frequent focal point—covering everything from on-field performance to the administrative decisions of the league—the scope of the show extends far beyond the sporting arena. Episodes regularly delve into local and national politics, international affairs, and cultural critiques. Common themes include the state of civil liberties, the evolution of social norms, and critiques of mainstream media reporting.
The format is conversational and typically features Newman alongside recurring co-hosts and guest contributors who share backgrounds in professional sports or journalism. This dynamic allows for a blend of insider sporting anecdotes and robust discussion on modern life. Episodes are frequently divided into multiple segments or parts, allowing the hosts to pivot from lighthearted banter to serious analysis of global political developments, such as the American electoral process or Victorian state governance.
Characterized by a straightforward production style, the show prioritizes the dialogue and personal opinions of its hosts over complex sound design. It caters to an audience looking for perspectives that often sit outside the conventional media consensus. By maintaining a frequent release schedule, the podcast provides timely reactions to the news cycle, positioned through the lens of one of Australia’s most recognizable and outspoken public figures. Through its mix of sports analysis and social commentary, the program continues to engage with a dedicated listenership interested in direct, unscripted discourse.
00:00
00:00
Episode's summary
The hosts discuss a media personality's alleged dating scandal and criticize the potential hypocrisy of journalists reporting on it. The conversation shifts to political topics, including One Nation's popularity, the reinstatement of Australia Day in Melbourne, and reflections on COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria.
The speakers also address controversial topics including gender identity in sports, legal comparisons regarding bail for Nicky Winmar and Ralph Carr, and recent allegations involving Mitch Cleary. The segment concludes with discussions on 'Welcome to Country' ceremonies and criticisms of media coverage.
Chapters
Click on a chapter to go directly to that moment
Highlights
A high-placed media figure has been accused of cheating with a senior AFL club staffer while his partner was pregnant.
00:00:32 · The host introduces the central gossip topic regarding an alleged scandal involving a media personality.
One Nation is surging, in my opinion, Duck, is because their name says it all. They want one nation for everyone, a homogeneous society
00:05:00 · The speaker provides his interpretation of why the One Nation political party is gaining momentum.
I've got to admit, I bent the rules. I'm one of the bend, and no one will be surprised by that, but I broke the curfew.
00:10:55 · The host admits to personally violating COVID-19 lockdown regulations in Victoria.
And if you are born a man, I don't think you should be playing in women's sport.
00:15:55 · The speaker expresses his firm stance on biological sex and participation in female sports categories.
Carr has indicated he's appealing and he has been offered no such leniency about being able to be released on bail.
00:22:21 · The speaker highlights what he perceives as an inconsistency in how the justice system handles bail for different individuals.
The hosts discuss a media personality's alleged dating scandal and criticize the potential hypocrisy of journalists reporting on it. The conversation shifts to political topics, including One Nation's popularity, the reinstatement of Australia Day in Melbourne, and reflections on COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria.
The speakers also address controversial topics including gender identity in sports, legal comparisons regarding bail for Nicky Winmar and Ralph Carr, and recent allegations involving Mitch Cleary. The segment concludes with discussions on 'Welcome to Country' ceremonies and criticisms of media coverage.
Published02 Sep 2026
Duration31:36
Episodes
1001-
Episode 377 - Part 2 - Real Opinions
Listened
The hosts discuss a media personality's alleged dating scandal and criticize the potential hypocrisy of journalists reporting on it. The conversation shifts to political topics, including One Nation's popularity, the reinstatement of Australia Day in Melbourne, and reflections on COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria.
The speakers also address controversial topics including gender identity in sports, legal comparisons regarding bail for Nicky Winmar and Ralph Carr, and recent allegations involving Mitch Cleary. The segment concludes with discussions on 'Welcome to Country' ceremonies and criticisms of media coverage.
02 Sep 2026
1000-
Episode 377 - Part 1 - Selected Opinions
Listened
The hosts discuss recent controversies involving Sydney Swans players and the media's role in public judgment, alongside an analysis of how player statistics influence Brownlow Medal voting. The conversation also covers AFL finals predictions for matchups involving Fremantle, Hawthorn, Geelong, Carlton, and Brisbane.
The episode further explores Scott Pendlebury's new dual role with the Gold Coast, critiques recent comments made by Sydney CEO Andrew Dillon, and concludes with a prediction for the elimination final between the Crows and Bulldogs.
02 Sep 2026
999-
Episode 376 - Part 2 - Minor Pickings
Listened
This episode features a discussion on recent developments within the AFL, including coaching changes at Essendon and Greater West Sydney, and legal disputes involving Melbourne Football Club's former CEO. The conversation shifts to broader social and political critiques, addressing topics such as gender diversity committees in sports, immigration impacts on the Australian job market, and concerns regarding curriculum influences in schools. The host concludes by discussing the program's long-standing commitment to independent broadcasting without corporate sponsorship.
24 Aug 2026
998-
Episode 376 - Part 1 - Hysteria Reigns
Listened
In this episode of You Cannot Be Serious, the host addresses the ongoing controversy involving Sydney Swans players following an incident in Melbourne. The discussion centers on the lack of criminal charges following allegations of drug use and inappropriate conduct at a hotel. The host argues against severe sporting sanctions like suspensions, suggesting instead that heavy financial fines would be a more appropriate way to hold players accountable without damaging the club's finals campaign.
The episode also critiques the involvement of legal teams and the media's role in amplifying the scandal. The host examines the details surrounding the presence of sex workers at the scene and questions the claims of trauma, while calling for the AFL to resolve the matter quickly through financial penalties to prevent a lasting stain on the competition.
24 Aug 2026
997-
Episode 375 - Part 2 - Can we be saved
Listened
The speakers examine the rise of right-wing political movements, linking figures like Donald Trump and Nigel Farage to growing concerns over immigration and national identity. They criticize mainstream media bias, specifically targeting the ABC, and discuss the impact of 'cancel culture' on free speech.
The conversation further explores political grievances including government funding of activist groups, the economic aftermath of COVID-19 policies in Victoria, and the influence of the 'deep state' on global conflicts involving Russia and Ukraine. The episode concludes with a discussion on Australian political accountability and a personal travel update.
19 Aug 2026
996-
Episode 375 - Part 1 - Specifically Speaking
Listened
The speaker addresses recent controversies, including his use of the term 'buyer's remorse' regarding Ralph Carr and Guy Sebastian, as well as allegations involving Swans players. He critiques the AFL's formation of a gender diversity committee and comments on political hypocrisy.
The episode also covers scandals surrounding the Logies, the implications of AI on accountability, and upcoming sporting events like the Brownlow Medal. The discussion concludes with AFL game predictions and analysis for the upcoming round of matches.
19 Aug 2026
995-
Episode 374 - Part 2 -Family Affair
Listened
The speakers discuss the motivations behind podcasting, with Doug explaining his use of the platform to push back against misinformation and 'gutter journalism.' The conversation covers AFL news, including women's game integration, controversy surrounding concussion-related contracts, and the impact of new finals formats.
The episode also addresses the AFL's relationship with betting agencies, the rise of eGames, and serious concerns regarding child safety in schools. The discussion concludes with a look at systemic corruption and the hosts providing their AFL betting tips for the upcoming round.
12 Aug 2026
994-
Episode 374 - Part 1 -Simpletons Exposed
Listened
In this episode, the host addresses recent intense media backlash and character assassination following comments made on a previous podcast. He discusses the controversy surrounding his use of the term 'buyer's remorse' in relation to an incident involving Ralph Carr, arguing that his words were deliberately taken out of context by social media users and news organisations to create a feeding frenzy.
The host further critiques what he describes as a hypocritical media landscape, citing examples of selective outrage regarding political figures and the treatment of controversial interview subjects. He defends his right to express opinions and asserts that he has no regrets about his statements, provided they are understood within their original context.
12 Aug 2026
993-
Episode 373 - Part 2 - Fake Win, The Wizard
Listened
The hosts discuss political alignment and the impact of government decisions on sporting events like the Commonwealth Games, before moving into an in-depth AFL analysis. The conversation covers Carlton's finals prospects, coaching critiques, and the challenges of comparing modern players to legends of past eras.
The episode also explores AFL coaching predictions regarding North Melbourne, the expansion of the Tasmanian football team, and land use regulations in Australia. The segment concludes with a story about a golfer's practical joke and the host's weekly AFL game tips.
05 Aug 2026
992-
Episode 373 - Part 1 - 9.85 & Silly Gilly
Listened
The speakers share travel anecdotes from Sicily, including language barriers and internet difficulties, before transitioning into discussions on media accountability and the impact of political criticism. The episode also covers AFL player regulations, legal news involving Ralph Carr, and debates surrounding identity in legal cases.
The conversation further explores concerns regarding sex education in schools and the preservation of Western values amidst immigration. The episode concludes with a discussion on political figures and a transition toward sports.
05 Aug 2026
991-
Episode 372 - Part 2 - Who's Not Corrupt
Listened
Recorded from Calabria, Italy, this episode features a wide-ranging monologue covering AFL predictions, Australian politics, and international affairs. The speaker discusses the legitimacy of the Brownlow Medal, critiques the Victorian state government, and addresses allegations regarding political donations involving the Prime Minister.
The commentary extends to US politics, specifically examining the investigations into Donald Trump and the actions of officials from the Obama administration. The episode concludes with reflections on the Melbourne Wheel, criticisms of European sports broadcasting, and a series of football tips attributed to Wayne 'the Duck' Carey.
29 Jul 2026
990-
Episode 372 - Part 1 - Booing, Pay Dirt, Frauds
Listened
Sam calls in from a medieval town in Calabria, Italy, sharing anecdotes about being mistaken for Harrison Ford and discussing his recent experience at an AFL function. The conversation shifts to political commentary regarding the Victorian state government, the Commonwealth Games, and allegations surrounding Gina Rinehart's donation.
The speakers also debate themes of free speech, specifically whether booing in sports is a legitimate expression of grievance or an issue of incivility. Additionally, they criticize certain media figures for character assassination and a lack of accountability regarding past reporting on football scandals.
29 Jul 2026
989-
Episode 371 - Part 2 - Ken, Sandy, Messe
Listened
The speakers reflect on the global impact of sporting icons like Messi, Muhammad Ali, and Michael Jordan before diving into AFL news, specifically Ken Hinkley's appointment as coach for the Tasmanian Devils and the potential challenges facing the new franchise. The conversation also explores broader league issues, including player payments, competition balance, umpiring consistency, and technology.
The episode concludes with a series of AFL match predictions, covering matchups such as Crows versus Collingwood and the Fremantle versus West Coast derby, followed by a lighthearted discussion about an upcoming meeting.
22 Jul 2026
988-
Episode 371 - Part 1 - Europe v Australia
Listened
The speakers begin with updates on their health and a discussion regarding the archaeological significance of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. The conversation then transitions into a critique of Australian identity, immigration, and government policies concerning 'Welcome to Country' and place names.
The episode also covers social and political issues in Victoria, including economic hardship, rising crime, and allegations of corruption surrounding the Commonwealth Games. Additionally, the speakers address recent news regarding drone usage in policing and the Prime Minister's absence from an Indigenous festival.
22 Jul 2026
987-
Episode 370 - Part 2 - No Go Zones, Hinch
Listened
15 Jul 2026
986-
Episode 370 - Part 1 - Trump, Ump's Refs
Listened
15 Jul 2026
985-
Episode 369 - Part 3 - Absent Duck
Listened
08 Jul 2026
984-
Episode 369- Part 2 - Rules for Some
Listened
08 Jul 2026
983-
Episode 369 - Part 1 - Insufferable Serena, Suffering Soccer
Listened
08 Jul 2026
982-
Episode 368 - Part 3 - About Karl
Listened
01 Jul 2026
981-
Episode 368 - Part 3 - The Bible, Vegan, Joint
Listened
01 Jul 2026
980-
Episode 368 - Part 1 - The Dawning of the Duck
Listened
01 Jul 2026
979-
Episode 367 - Part 2 - Ducking & Weaving
Listened
24 Jun 2026
978-
Episode 367 - Part 1 = Whistle Blowers
Listened
24 Jun 2026
977-
Episode 366 - Part 2 - UFC, MCC, AFL
Listened
17 Jun 2026
976-
Episode 366 - Part 1 - HoF, MND, W2C
Listened
17 Jun 2026
975-
Episode 365 - Part 1 - Home and Away
Listened
10 Jun 2026
974-
Episode 364 - Part 2 - Speed, Skiddies, 007
Listened
03 Jun 2026
973-
Episode 364 - Part 1 - Ahead of the Curve - Again
Listened
03 Jun 2026
972-
Episode 363 - Part 2 - Neale, Bluey, Brad
Listened
27 May 2026
971-
Episode 363 - Part 1 - Luggageless, Knickerless, Nichollsless
Listened
27 May 2026
970-
Episode 362 - Part 4 - Pilot James Nixon
Listened
22 May 2026
969-
Episode 362 - Part 3 - Political Lies
Listened
21 May 2026
968-
Episode 362 - Part 2 - Devils, Tigers & Scotland
Listened
20 May 2026
967-
Episode 362 - Part 1 - Duck Neck, Gala Round
Listened
20 May 2026
966-
Episode 361 - Part 2 - Low Lifes, Journos, Archibald