Listener sentiment
Conversations continues to command deep listener loyalty and near-universal acclaim, with longtime audiences repeatedly describing it as an indispensable daily or weekly ritual. Host Richard Fidler draws the most sustained praise—frequently called one of Australia's finest interviewers—listeners pointing to his warmth, meticulous research, and rare ability to forge genuine emotional connections with guests that move them to tears or laughter. Sarah Kanowski earns consistent appreciation for her thoughtful, compassionate interviewing style, and together the duo is credited with making unfamiliar topics and obscure life stories compelling enough to re-listen to. A small but recurring minority of criticism centers on substitute and guest hosts, whom some listeners find lacking the same ease and warmth, and on perceived ideological bias in certain guest selections—particularly around political and cultural topics. Frustration also surfaces periodically over repeated episodes without clear original air dates, reduced publishing frequency, and occasional audio-quality issues. On balance, the show's two-decade consistency, breadth of subject matter, and empathetic storytelling keep it regarded as a standout of Australian public broadcasting.
Apple4.6 · 573
Summary generated Aug 7, 2026
