In this engaging episode, Michael Lester speaks with John Stephan, a Sydney-raised singer whose career spans nearly twenty years in America’s top stages—Nashville and Las Vegas. John shares his extraordinary journey, starting as a professional singer at just four years old, and reveals how his four-octave vocal range set him apart. He recounts how, after studying music at Sydney University, he was encouraged by teachers to head to America, where record companies in Australia initially claimed they couldn’t afford his unique sound. Known as 'The Voice from Down Under,' John discusses how he was backed by Wes Orbison, Roy Orbison’s son, to become the authorized performer of Roy’s songs and story. Tune in to learn about his songwriting, recording career, and the adventures that took him from Sydney to the world stage.

In this heartfelt episode, Chrissy Mack welcomes Kerry Gleeson, - The Advocate, counselor, and healer, to discuss the urgent mental health crisis affecting the Northern Beaches community. Kerry, with her own lived experience of trauma and healing, passionately advocates for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and mental health struggles. She shares insights on trauma-informed care, suicide prevention, and postvention, emphasizing the importance of support, understanding, and hope during these challenging times. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, advocacy, and community healing.

In this special episode, Michael Lester sits down with Margaret Brandman, a renowned Sydney-based composer, pianist, and music educator. With a career spanning over fifty years, Margaret shares her journey through a rich variety of musical styles—from classical and jazz to Latin American music—and her experiences as a performer, composer, and teacher. Recognized and awarded both in Australia and internationally, Margaret has collaborated with talented musicians, ensembles, and orchestras. Join us as we discuss her inspiring career and enjoy a selection of her beautiful music.

Chrissy Mack interviews Terry Kennedy from Thryv about making it easier for small businesses to get found online, connect with customers, and turn engagement into sales. Terry also shares practical tips on how small businesses can prepare for a successful Christmas season. Tune in for valuable insights to help your business thrive during the holidays!

In this inspiring episode, Michael Lester talks with Wayne Richmond, a dedicated musician, venue owner of Humph Hall, and leader of the community ensemble Loosely Woven. Wayne shares his thirty-year journey in music and community service, highlighting how a group of about twenty instrumentalists and singers come together each year to create diverse concerts across the Northern Beaches, Sydney, and NSW. Their performances support worthy causes, with all proceeds donated to community initiatives — all without payment.. Tune in for a story of passion, purpose, and community impact through music.

:

In this enlightening episode, Michael interviews Dr. Elizabeth Finkel, a renowned biochemist, science journalist, and editor of Cosmos magazine, about her latest book, Prove It: A Scientific Guide to the Post-Truth Era (Latrobe/Black Inc, 2025). Dr. Finkel offers compelling insights into how the scientific method has evolved over centuries, emphasizing that science is a continual search for truth rather than a final, conclusive proof. Through stories of controversies and breakthroughs—from Einstein’s gravitational waves to the origins of COVID-19—she illustrates how scientific thinking navigates uncertainty and discovery. Prompted by recent challenges to scientific integrity, including the questioning of truth during President Trump’s era, Dr. Finkel stresses the importance of understanding science’s nature, methods, and its vital role in shaping a better, more informed world. Join us for a fascinating discussion on science’s enduring quest for truth.

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.