The Karl Stefanovic Show

The Karl Stefanovic Show Podcast

The Karl Stefanovic Show is a long-form interview podcast hosted by one of Australia’s most prominent media figures. Karl Stefanovic, widely recognized for his decades-long tenure as a co-host on the Nine Network’s *Today* show, utilizes this audio platform to engage in unscripted and unfiltered conversations that extend beyond the constraints of traditional broadcast television. Launched in early 2026, the program serves as a forum for exploring significant issues across Australian politics, sport, business, and culture.

The series is characterized by its direct approach to current affairs and its commitment to long-form dialogue. It features a diverse array of guests, ranging from high-profile political figures and industry leaders to cultural icons and experts. Recent episodes have included discussions with former Prime Minister Tony Abbott on national security and immigration, *Shark Tank* investor Steve Baxter on the future of defense technology, and Senator Susan McDonald regarding energy policy and resource management. The content frequently addresses pressing national concerns, such as the Australian farming crisis, NDIS systemic issues, and evolving defense strategies.

In addition to standalone interviews, the podcast incorporates a "Karl Weekly" segment. This format allows Stefanovic to provide personal commentary and analysis on the news cycle, often featuring multiple shorter interviews with key stakeholders involved in the week’s headline stories. The show’s editorial stance emphasizes transparency and curiosity, aiming to bypass political "spin" to reach more raw perspectives. Episodes typically range from 45 minutes to over an hour in length, allowing for a deeper exploration of complex topics than is typically possible in televised news segments.

Produced for a wide audience interested in the inner workings of Australian society, the show has established itself as a significant player in the domestic podcast landscape. By leveraging Stefanovic’s established reputation for journalistic inquiry and an irreverent communication style, the program offers listeners an unvarnished look at the people and policies shaping the country’s future.

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Episode's summary

Alexander Downer talks inflation, government spending and your mortgage, recorded before the Melbourne Cup Day rate call.The former Liberal leader and Australia’s longest-serving foreign minister has seen it all. The highs and lows. So what does he prescribe for the future based on the past? Interest rates have gone up four times this year, to 4.60 per cent. Inflation hit 4.3 per cent in the year to September. On Melbourne Cup Day, the Reserve Bank decides whether to go again. Here’s how it works. When prices rise faster than the Reserve Bank’s 2-3 per cent target, it lifts the cash rate. Borrowing costs more, households and businesses spend less, and price rises slow. The question is what’s pushing prices up in the first place. He says it’s government spending, state and federal. The Reserve Bank says demand from both government and the private sector is running ahead of what the economy can supply, and higher oil prices from the Middle East conflict are adding to it. Karl asks Downer what that means for…

Episodes

116-

What is inflation and why do interest rates keep rising?

Alexander Downer talks inflation, government spending and your mortgage, recorded before the Melbourne Cup Day rate call.The former Liberal leader and Australia’s longest-serving foreign minister has seen it all. The highs and lows. So what does he prescribe for the future based on the past? Interest rates have gone up four times this year, to 4.60 per cent. Inflation hit 4.3 per cent in the year to September. On Melbourne Cup Day, the Reserve Bank decides whether to go again. Here’s how it works. When prices rise faster than the Reserve Bank’s 2-3 per cent target, it lifts the cash rate. Borrowing costs more, households and businesses spend less, and price rises slow. The question is what’s pushing prices up in the first place. He says it’s government spending, state and federal. The Reserve Bank says demand from both government and the private sector is running ahead of what the economy can supply, and higher oil prices from the Middle East conflict are adding to it. Karl asks Downer what that means for…

01 Nov 2026
115-

HOW A WESTERN SYDNEY KID CONQUERED LAS VEGAS

Billy Cross shares his remarkable journey from a working-class upbringing in Western Sydney to building Manpower Australia and the 'Thunder from Down Under' empire. He details the evolution of his career, from performing in male revues to achieving massive international success, including a breakthrough on the Phil Donahue show and a prestigious Las Vegas residency. The conversation also explores the personal side of his success, covering the challenges of global expansion, a near-fatal heart attack that led him to advocate for men's health, and his pride in representing Australian culture on the world stage.

30 Oct 2026
114-

The Immigration Debate Nobody’s Having About Your Dinner

Restaurateur Mario Libertini and industry experts discuss the critical reliance of Australia's hospitality sector on migrant workers and backpackers. They argue that current visa restrictions, immigration bureaucracy, and a lack of interest from young Australians in service roles are threatening the survival of restaurants and the broader economy. The conversation explores how rising costs of living, complex tax systems, and competition from higher-paying sectors like warehousing are driving labor shortages. The speakers advocate for policy reforms to retain skilled overseas workers and find ways to make hospitality more attractive to local youth to prevent widespread industry closures.

28 Oct 2026
113-

Wind Farms Are Splitting Country Towns. Who Gets a Say?

Karl Stefanovic visits the Franz family to discuss how nearby wind turbines have caused noise disturbances, property devaluation, and significant emotional distress. The episode explores the broader social impact on local communities, including issues like shadow flicker and community division. Local residents and politician David Littleproud discuss the lack of regulatory oversight and the human toll of rapid renewable expansion. Concerns are also raised regarding the long-term environmental impacts, specifically the unknown processes for decommissioning infrastructure and the recycling of solar panels.

25 Oct 2026
112-

Dick Johnson Mortgaged His House. Then Australia Saved Him

In this episode, racing legend Dick Johnson discusses his career, from his early childhood memories of driving at age eight to the intense drama of recent races at Bathurst. He reflects on the emotional highs and lows of the Mount Panorama circuit, including fuel crises and the legendary 'rock incident' that ended a race. The conversation also explores his transition from a mechanic to a professional racer, his deep respect for rival Peter Brock, and the evolution of racing technology. Johnson shares personal anecdotes about life on the road, his long marriage, and offers characteristic wisdom on overcoming obstacles and looking forward.

23 Oct 2026