The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show

Samantha Harris is one of Australia’s most recognisable models and a proud advocate for Indigenous representation in fashion. From gracing the cover of Vogue as the first Aboriginal model to writing her inspiring memoir Role Model, Samantha’s story is one of courage, grace, and determination. Her career has redefined beauty standards while celebrating cultural identity and resilience, making her a true trailblazer in the industry.

In this heartfelt conversation with Jess, Samantha reflects on her journey from a shy country girl with big dreams to becoming a confident force on the catwalk and soon-to-be mother. She opens up about the powerful influence of her late mother, the lessons learned from early challenges, and the importance of staying grounded in her Aboriginal heritage. Together explore how family, identity, and inner strength have shaped her success, and how Samantha hopes to inspire the next generation to walk proudly in their own footsteps.

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

LINKS:

For more than 30 years, Karla Grant has been a trailblazer in Australian media, a proud Western Arrernte woman whose fearless journalism has paved the way for greater representation of Indigenous voices on screen. As the host and executive producer of Living Black on NITV, Karla has dedicated her career to truth-telling, giving a platform to stories too often overlooked, and inspiring generations through her courage, authenticity, and grace.

In this deeply personal conversation, Karla reflects on facing racism as a young girl to becoming one of Australia’s most respected Indigenous broadcasters. She opens up about the moments that tested her resilience, the people who shaped her path, and the drive that continues to fuel her fight for social justice. Karla shares how turning 60 has brought new joy and perspective, and why storytelling remains at the heart of who she is, not just as a journalist, but as a woman, a mother, and an advocate for truth.

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

LINKS:

Marianne Williamson is a best selling author, spiritual teacher, and political activist who has twice run for the Democratic nomination for the US Presidency. Her teachings on spiritual development have reached millions around the world and Oprah Winfrey describes her as ‘One of the most influential women of the modern spiritual world’. Marianne is now bringing her powerful live show to Australia, continuing her mission to awaken hearts and minds around the world.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Marianne and Jess explore the beauty and challenge of becoming at every stage of life. They dive into the gifts of menopause as a “second puberty,” the courage it takes to rise above trauma, and how to disarm self-sabotage. Marianne shares how faith, self-care, and spiritual practice can help us find peace in a noisy world. This is an episode for anyone ready to reconnect with their resilience, purpose, and inner power.

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

LINKS:

Mitch and Mark captured Australia’s hearts on The Block, known for their warmth, humour, and undeniable style. Beyond their television success, they’ve become advocates for authenticity and acceptance, using their platform to challenge stereotypes and celebrate love in all its forms. Together for over two decades, they’ve built a beautiful blended family and a life grounded in mutual respect, resilience, and joy.

In this candid chat with Jess, Mitch and Mark share the sliding doors moment that sparked their decades-long love story and how it shaped the life they’ve built together. They open up about navigating parenting in a blended family, the legacy of Australia’s marriage equality vote, and why joy is their answer to prejudice.

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

LINKS:

Melissa Leong is a celebrated food writer, TV host and judge, best known for bringing warmth, intelligence and honesty to Australian screens. The daughter of Singaporean-Chinese parents, Melissa has built a career that celebrates culture, creativity and courage, using food and storytelling as her way of connecting people to what really matters.

In this episode, Melissa opens up about growing up different and how feeling like an outsider shaped her sense of self, embracing individuality as a lifelong journey. She shares the importance of releasing shame that isn’t ours and the healing that comes from owning our stories with honesty and grace. Melissa also reflects on why failure is essential to growth and why learning to say no is such a vital part of her self-care.

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

LINKS: