Marina Prior: Voice of a Generation | McLaren Versus
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 with youthful clarity to embracing the depth and texture of complex character parts as her career matured.
It’s a conversation about artistry, adaptation, and the enduring magic of storytelling through song.
Topics Discussed:
Discovering music and performance as a young girl in Melbourne
Breaking through with The Phantom of the Opera and other landmark roles
The transition from ingénue to character roles
The discipline and daily rituals behind maintaining a world-class instrument
How motherhood and family shaped her artistry and perspective
Why live theatre remains her truest creative home
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facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mclarenversus
Follow Marina Prior
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms_marina_prior
This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
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Damon Gameau: Stories for a Living Planet
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 means to be an artist who refuses to stay in their lane.
It’s a conversation about courage, creativity, and the belief that stories can quite literally change the world.
Topics Discussed:
From the hills iof Adelaide to a boat ride with Sophia Loren
What sparked Damon’s pivot from acting to impact filmmaking
How storytelling can reframe complex global challenges
The emotional intelligence behind his approach to documentary
The risks and rewards of telling stories that challenge the status quo
Why hope is a strategy—and how to keep it alive
Links mentioned in this episode:
https://futurecouncil.global/
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instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclarenversus
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mclarenversus
Follow Damon Gameau
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damon.gameau/
Like, Comment & Subscribe
If you love real stories hit the like button, subscribe to the channel, and drop a comment about your favourite Damon film or doco.
DamonGameau #FutureCouncil #McLarenVersus #SpencerMcLaren
This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
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Heather Mitchell: A Portrait of Quiet Courage
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 space for joy, grief, and everything in between
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instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclarenversus
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mclarenversus
Follow Heather
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladyheathermitchell
Like, Comment & Subscribe
If you love real stories from real Aussie talent, hit the like button, subscribe to the channel, and drop a comment about your favourite Heather Mitchell role.
heathermitchell #McLarenVersus #SpencerMcLaren
This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
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Christine Anu: Between Two Worlds
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 meaning behind her most iconic performances, and how she continues to evolve as an artist, activist, and mother. It’s heart, heritage, and a little bit harmony.
Topics discussed:
The legacy of My Island Home and singing for a nation
Juggling fame, family, and cultural responsibility
The power of music to drive change and connect community
Follow Us
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclarenversus
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mclarenversus
Follow Christine Anu
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anuchristine/
Like, Comment & Subscribe
If you love real stories from real Aussie talent, hit the like button, subscribe to the channel, and drop a comment about your favourite Chrsitnie Anu role.
ChristineAnu #McLarenVersus #SpencerMcLaren
This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
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BONUS EPISODE: McLaren Vs ABC
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
Acclaimed actor and performer Spencer McLaren offers an intimate and inspiring glimpse into the lives of Australia’s most celebrated performers going beyond the surface to discover the real stories of these exceptional individuals. Through heartfelt and candid conversations, Spencer explores their life lessons, triumphs, and challenges, to reveal the humanity behind their public personas. McLaren Versus is more than a podcast; it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the incredible stories that make us who we are.
Australia