In this heartfelt and deeply honest episode, Jess sits down with comedian, actor, and musician Michelle Brasier to explore the complexities of grief, loss, and finding light in the darkest moments. Michelle opens up about losing both her father and brother to cancer only to be told that she herself has a 97% chance of developing it.

Michelle’s unique perspective reminds us that joy and sorrow can coexist, and that humor is not just an escape but a tool for healing. Whether you’ve experienced loss or are navigating difficult emotions, this conversation offers comfort, insight, and a reminder that even in the face of heartbreak, there is room for love, laughter, and connection.

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LINKS:

• Check out Michelle's book 'My Brothers Ashes are in a sandwich bag' HERE
• Catch Michelle on tour HERE or see her at The Sydney Opera House on Sat 8 March as part of All About Women in Feminist Roast.
• If you loved this chat with Michelle we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Meshel Laurie 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: Michelle Brasier
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.

Award-winning actor Guy Pearce has graced our screens for 40 years, from his breakout role as Mike in Neighbours to an acclaimed career across film, television, and theatre both in Australia and internationally. Beyond acting, he's also a musician and a proud dad to his son, Monte

In this episode, Guy and Jess dive into how fatherhood has transformed his life and why vulnerability is essential to both his parenting and career. He also reveals what makes a script irresistible to him, the unexpected element he looks for in every role and the best compliment you could give him about his work!

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

LINKS:

• Catch Guys latest film 'Inside' in cinemas from 27th February
• To stay up to date with Guys latest offerings you can connect with him here on Facebook
• If you loved this chat with Guy we think you'll love Jess's conversation with David Wenham 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: Guy Pearce
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.

Mahalia Barnes has been in and around music her entire life. A powerhouse soul and blues vocalist and the daughter of Jimmy & Jane Barnes, Mahalia was destined for the stage. She’s toured alongside legends like Bruce Springsteen and Bryan Adams, among many others, and now Mahalia is stepping out of her comfort zone to take on an iconic role in Jesus Christ Superstar.

In this episode Mahalia delves into her journey as a musician, opening up about personal struggles, family dynamics, and the profound impact of music on her life. She reflects on how addiction has shaped her family’s story, the resilience born from those challenges, and the deep bond of love that holds them together. Among the many loves in her life, this heartfelt conversation highlights the unique and evolving connection she shares with her father, marking a new chapter in their relationship.

A quick Content warning: This episode is created for adult audiences only, and contains references to drug use.

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

LINKS:

• Stay up to date with Mahalia here and check out where you can catch her performing in Jesus Christ Superstar here
• If you loved this chat with Mahalia we think you'll love Jess's conversation with Kate Ceberano 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: Mahalia Barnes
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.