McLaren versus

Spencer McLaren sits down with actor and musician Abi Tucker for a nostalgic, heartfelt reunion celebrating 25 years of The Secret Life of Us. From early auditions and unforgettable St Kilda nights to the creative risks that made the series groundbreaking, Abi reflects on her journey from Heartbreak High and Wildside into Miranda’s world — and how music, friendship and authenticity shaped her perf...

In this episode, Spencer sits down with Michael Idato, Cultural Editor-at-Large at Sydney Morning Herald, to unpack the cultural moment that The Secret Life of Us landed in — and why it still resonates 25 years on. Together, they explore how the series helped reshape Australian television at the turn of the millennium, capturing a generation on screen in a way that felt immediate, intimate, and un...

In this episode of McLaren Versus, Spencer heads upstairs — literally — to revisit the chaotic, flirtatious share-house energy of The Secret Life of Us, with a deep dive into the residents who lived just above : Gabi and Jason. From thin walls and questionable boundaries to friendships, hook-ups and emotional near-misses, this conversation unpacks how the “upstairs apartment” became its own pressu...

In this episode of McLaren Versus, Spencer pulls up a seat on the casting couch with the original series casting agent behind The Secret Life of Us — Wizzy Evans. And yes, the room was very full. We dive into the wild energy of the audition process, the sheer number of actors circling the show, and the buzz that surrounded Secret Life before anyone realised it would become a cultural touchstone. F...

In this fun reunion episode, Spencer sits down with Claudia Karvan, Deborah Mailman and Samuel Johnson to rewind the clock 25 years and revisit The Secret Life of Us — the show that made a generation fall in love, argue loudly at dinner parties, and feel slightly better (or worse) about their own lives. What follows is pure chaos in the best way: unfiltered memories, on-set gossip, affectionate ro...

This week on McLaren Versus, Spencer sits down with legendary producer Amanda Higgs and celebrated writer Judi McCrossin to unpack how The Secret Life of Us came to life, the creative risks that defined a generation of Australian drama, and why the emotional heartbeat of the series still resonates 25 years on. Topics discussed: Where Amanda and Judi were emotionally when Secret Life first began Ho...

In this episode of McLaren Versus, Spencer sits down with acclaimed Australian actor, playwright and screenwriter Kate Mulvany to talk about the craft of storytelling, the challenges of living and working with chronic pain, and what it means to reimagine Shakespeare through the lens of disability — all the way to sharing the screen with Al Pacino. Topics discussed: Tim Minchin sleeping on her couc...

On this episode of McLaren Versus, Spencer welcomes Marina Prior—the first lady of Australian musical theatre, whose voice and artistry have defined a generation of stage and concert performance. From her star-making turn in The Phantom of the Opera to a remarkable career spanning the country’s biggest productions, Marina reflects on the natural arc of her journey—moving from ingénue roles sung wi...

In this episode of McLaren Versus, Spencer sits down with actor, filmmaker, and passionate change agent Damon Gameau, whose journey from beloved screen star to globally recognised impact storyteller is nothing short of remarkable. From the runaway success of That Sugar Film to the world-building optimism of 2040, Damon shares his insights into the craft of storytelling with purpose—and what it mea...

In this episode of McLaren Versus, Spencer sits down with acclaimed Australian actor, author and 'Toast' artist (yes vegemite and toast...) Heather Mitchell to talk about strength, stagecraft, and stepping into the shoes of one of history’s most formidable women. Topics discussed: 1.Building a career in Australian film, TV, and theatre Longevity, leadership, and lifting others as you go Making spa...

In this episode of McLaren Versus, Spencer sits down with the trailblazing singer, actor, and cultural icon Christine Anu to talk about the power of representation, the responsibility of platform, and the joy of telling stories through music, stage, and screen. Christine reflects on a lifetime of breaking ground as a proud Torres Strait Islander woman in the Australian arts industry, the personal...

I popped into ABC to spill the tea with Mary Gearin about McLaren Versus — turns out I talk as much as my guests! This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode of McLaren Versus, Spencer sits down with the multi-hyphenate performer, composer, and writer to talk about what drives his creativity, the challenges of making work that divides opinion, and the thrill (and chaos) of taking on Broadway with Beetlejuice and King Kong. Eddie reflects on the highs and heartbreaks of showbiz, the importance of holding your nerve as an artist, and how...

McLaren Versus is your ‘Access All Areas’ pass to meet the people behind the stories through candid conversations with household names that reveal life lessons, triumphs, and challenges, showcasing the humanity behind public personas. It’s a new Australian podcast that celebrates resilience, creativity, and the stories that define a life well-lived. Follow Us instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m...

In this special bonus drop, Spencer takes a moment to reflect on one of the most revealing questions from McLaren Versus: "Do you have any mistakes you regret?" Across the season, guests have offered personal and surprising answers but with a consistent theme. Now, Spencer shares his own perspective—on regret, growth, and why our mistakes might be the most valuable part of the journey. Short, swee...

From Perth to Primetime, Murray Bartlett has carved a career defined by quiet intensity, emotional depth, and unflinching honesty. In this deeply engaging conversation, Spencer sits down with the Emmy-winning actor behind The White Lotus, Looking, and The Last of Us to unpack the journey behind the performances. Murray shares the realities of life as a working actor before the big break, how he na...

In this heartfelt episode of McLaren Versus, Spencer sits down with the unforgettable Pia Miranda—an actress who became a national treasure after portraying Josie in the landmark Australian film Looking for Alibrandi. Now, decades on, Pia reflects on the career-defining role that launched her, the challenges of navigating fame at a young age, and how she’s embraced reinvention through motherhood,...

This week, from humble beginnings to national stardom, Shane Jacobson talks with Spencer McLaren about the roles that shaped him, the mentors who guided him, and why staying grounded is his greatest success. Topics discussed: Busiest Man in Showbiz Kenny and the heart of comedy Crafting Edna (Hairspray) The family legacy The advise from Hoges and Bryan Brown he still lives by Follow Us instagram:...