In this SAFE SPACE episode, we explore what it’s really like to be a Porn Star, as Angela White takes us behind the scenes of the adult film world.

Angela is the most searched adult performer globally and among the top earners on OnlyFans, sitting in the highest percentile of adult content creators. She’s a boundary-pushing filmmaker, academic, and advocate reshaping the adult industry on her own terms.

In this episode Angela reveals what life in the adult industry is really like, from the dynamics of intimacy on set,  to the importance of communication, consent, and understanding your own desires. This conversation invites curiosity, challenges assumptions, and encourages all of us to embrace our sexuality without shame. Whether it’s redefining empowerment or dismantling taboos around older women in porn, Angela’s insight offers something valuable for any woman who’s ever wondered what it means to fully own her body and her choices.

CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains adult themes and is for grown-up ears only. So if you've got little ones nearby, now's a good time to grab your headphones.

Is there somebody you'd like to share this episode with? Just tap the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and pass it on

LINKS:

• Angela White is rewriting what it means to be a woman in adult film, on her terms. Check out her Instagram & TikTok for insights, activism and unapologetic glam  head to her for more
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Angela White 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this SAFE SPACE episode, Jess sits down with Steph Trethewey to explore what it’s really like to be a rural mum, isolated, without support, and raising a newborn in the middle of nowhere.

Former TV journalist Steph left her high-profile career behind to raise a family on a remote Tasmanian farm, but what followed was a brutal mental health spiral into postnatal depression. Cut off from her community, career, and sense of identity, she found herself deeply unravelling, an experience shared by many rural mothers across Australia.

In this powerful conversation, Steph shares the unseen toll of rural motherhood, including staggering statistics: over 70% of rural mums say isolation is the hardest part of parenting, and half don’t have access to a mother’s group. This is a must-hear episode about resilience, breaking down, and the strength it takes to ask for help.

Is there somebody you'd like to share this episode with? Just tap the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and pass it on

LINKS:

• Out of Steph’s darkness came Motherland, a community for bush mums that has became a lifeline for rural women across Australia.
• Listen to the Motherland Australia Podcast here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Steph Trethewey
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is a little extra special, because Jess’s guest isn’t just one of our most-loved Big Talk Show regulars… he’s also her husband and one of Australia’s most respected news anchors: Peter Overton (aka Petee!). With 35 years at Channel Nine and a Silver Logie nomination, Petee’s no stranger to the spotlight, but this time you’re asking the questions.

In this heartwarming (and cheeky) conversation, Pete reflects on his long career in news, what the Logie nomination really means to him, what he really thinks of Tom Cruise, the private call he once received from Bryan Henderson (which he’s never spoken about before), and his secret to staying cool under pressure. He also shares why he believes success isn’t defined by what we do, but by how we show up in the world. Expect plenty of laughs, a few mushy moments, surprise cameo questions (yes, even from Ally Langdon!), and thoughtful insights from one of TV’s kindest hearts.

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• Vote for Peter for the Silver Logie HERE Category 20 Ray Martin Award for Most Popular News or Public Affairs Presenter
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Peter Overton
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this SAFE SPACE episode, Jess sits down with Chloe Hayden to explore what it’s really like to live as a Neurodivergent Woman.

Chloe is an award-winning actress, author, advocate who's redefining what it means to be neurodivergent in the public eye. Diagnosed with autism at 13 and ADHD at 22, Chloe has spent her life turning difference into power. With her raw honesty and radiant energy, Chloe is the kind of woman young girls need to see in the world.

In this conversation, Chloe opens up to Jess about what it's like to grow up autistic in a world that never felt built for her, from the impact of her diagnosis, to masking her way through burnout as an adult. She explains what masking is, why it can lead to physical collapse, and how learning to rest has become the bravest thing she can do while navigating a neurotypical world. This episode is vital listening for anyone who’s ever felt different, or loved someone who is.

Is there somebody you'd like to share this episode with? Just tap the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and pass it on

LINKS:

• You can find out more about Kellie’s story in her remarkable book Different, Not Less 
• Chloe is nominated for a Silver Logie for Best Supporting Actress for her brilliant work on Heartbreak High! Vote and show your support here
• To keep up with all things Chloe, check out her Instagram and website

• If you or someone you love is seeking support around Autism or Neurodivergence, we recommend reaching out to Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect). They offer a range of resources, services, and guidance for individuals, families, and carers across the country.

• Along with Yellow Lady Bugs  who are dedicated to the happiness, success and celebration of autistic girls, women and gender diverse individuals.

• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Chloe Hayden
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this SAFE SPACE episode, Jess sits down with Cheng Lei to explore what it’s really like to be Wrongly Imprisoned.

Chinese Born Australian Journalist Cheng Lei’s life was upended when she was wrongfully detained in China on charges of espionage. For more than three years, Cheng endured isolation, interrogation, and imprisonment, cut off from her family, her children, and the outside world.

With courage, dark humour, and remarkable insight, Cheng shares what it took to survive, the unexpected friendships that sustained her, and how love, desire, and the human spirit helped her endure the unthinkable. This is her extraordinary story of resilience, injustice, and ultimately, freedom.

Is there somebody you'd like to share this episode with? Just tap the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and pass it on

LINKS:

• Find out more about Cheng Lei’s story in her remarkable ‘Memoir of Freedom’ 

If you or someone you love needs support after leaving prison, organisations like Samaritans are here to help. For over 25 years, Samaritans has supported people transitioning from prison back into the community, providing practical assistance to help rebuild life on the outside. Along with Mission Australia and Reboot Australia.

And if this conversation has brought up difficult feelings, Lifeline is here 24/7 on 13 11 14 You’re not alone.

 

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Cheng Lei 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this SAFE SPACE episode, Jess sits down with Kellie Finlayson to explore what it’s really like to live with a Terminal Illness.

At just 25 and shortly after giving birth, Kellie was diagnosed with Stage 4 Bowel Cancer. She opens up about her journey, sharing how she shifted her mindset from “why me?” to “why not me?”, and how perspective and resilience have shaped her experience.

Kellie speaks candidly about the emotional and physical challenges of treatment, the power of self-advocacy, and how her diagnosis has impacted her role as a mother. Above all, she shares what it means to live fully and find meaning in the face of uncertainty.

Is there somebody you'd like to share this episode with? Just tap the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and pass it on

LINKS:

• You can find out more about Kellie’s story in her remarkable book ‘There Must be More’ and hear her podcast ‘Sh!t Talkers'
• If you or someone you love is affected by cancer, support is available. You can call  The Cancer Council on 13 11 20 for free, confidential information, emotional support, and practical guidance — wherever you are in Australia. And if this conversation has brought up difficult feelings, Lifeline is here 24/7 on 13 11 14 You’re not alone.
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Kellie Finlayson
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jane Fonda is an iconic actress, activist, and fitness pioneer whose influence spans over six decades. At 87, she continues to inspire with her unwavering commitment to social causes and her candid reflections on life, aging, and beauty.

In this episode, Jess and Jane explore the themes of aging gracefully and the evolving standards of female beauty. Jane opens up about self-worth, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of female friendships. She discusses how activism has shaped her sense of purpose and how embracing change has been essential for her personal growth. This episode embodies L'Oréal's Age Perfect philosophy, celebrating the beauty of aging gracefully and challenging conventional beauty norms.

This episode was produced in partnership with L’Oréal Paris and recorded in collaboration with the wonderful team at Wanderlust True North

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• In this episode Jane touches on her  experience of an eating disorder and body image issues. If you need support for yourself or someone you care about, help is available by talking to The Butterfly Foundation HERE
• If you loved this chat with Jane we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Rebecca Gibney here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Jane Fonda 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Montaigne is one of Australia’s most original voices. A genre-defying, ARIA-winning musician known for their theatrical flair and fearless honesty. From representing Australia on the Eurovision stage to carving out space as a non-binary artist, Montaigne brings both vulnerability and power to everything they do. In this episode, Jess sits down with the brilliant performer to uncover the real person behind the glitter and grandeur.

Montaigne opens up about identity, family, and the emotional refuge they find in music. They reflect on the pressure of performing on one of the world’s biggest stages, what it means to be a confident introvert, and how creativity became a lifeline. With honesty and humour, Montaigne shares what it truly means to take up space, and how the stage gives them permission to express who they really are.

CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes discussion of complex and difficult family relationships. If this brings up anything for you, please know you're not alone support is available at standalone.org.au relationships.org.au and beyondblue.org.au

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• Montaigne's new album 'Its hard to be a Fish' is available here 
• If you loved this chat with Montaigne we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Courtney Act here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Montaigne
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Katrina Gorry is a global Football Icon! A World Cup star, Olympian, and proud mum.  But behind the glory on the pitch is a trailblazer who’s faced some of life’s toughest challenges with courage, grace, and a fierce spirit that’s impossible not to admire. In her self-titled biography Katrina Gorry, she opens up like never before, and in this deeply honest conversation with Jess, she does the same.

Katrina and Jess talk about the power of vulnerability; from battling an eating disorder and mental health challenges to navigating addiction within her family and the complex journey of coming out. Katrina shares how therapy became a turning point, the strength she found in friendship during tough times, how opening up to others helped lighten the load, and why becoming a mum was her greatest dream. It’s a moving, hopeful, and ultimately empowering chat about resilience, kindness, and using your story to lift others.

CONTENT WARNING: In this episode Katrina discusses her lived experience of an eating disorder and body image issues. If this has brought up anything for you, or or someone you know needs support for an eating disorder The Butterfly Foundation is available for Support for eating disorders and body image issues.

Know someone who'd enjoy this episode?  Why not share it with them by tapping the 3 dots above ⬆︎ and passing it on

LINKS:

• Buy Katrina's powerful biography, a Matildas hero's story of football, motherhood and breaking down barriers HERE 
• If you need support for yourself or someone you care about, help is available by talking to The Butterfly Foundation HERE
• If you loved this chat with Katrina we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Moana Hope here
• If you love what we do, why not follow the show, and rate and review on Apple or Spotify

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Guest: Katrina Gorry 
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall 
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this reflective solo episode, Jess dives into a question that’s been tugging at her heart and maybe yours too. After years of defining herself through her roles as mum, wife, daughter, and carer, a recent trip with just her mum cracked something open: Beyond the anxiety of letting go came the realisation of how freeing it is to discover who we are beyond our roles.

Jess invites you to consider the you behind the titles. Who are you when you're not looking after everyone else? What brings you joy that’s just for you? Because sometimes, the most powerful kind of self-care is simply pressing pause on the we, and saying yes to the me.

CREDITS:
Host: Jessica Rowe
Executive Producer: Nic McClure
Audio Producer: Nat Marshall
Digital Content Producer: Zoe Panaretos

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show acknowledges the Gadigal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples here today.

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.