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, reality TV (yes, she won Survivor), and continued creative growth.
Spencer and Pia talk about identity, resilience, and the deeply personal moments that have shaped her as both an artist and a woman.
In this episode:
The enduring impact of Looking for Alibrandi
What fame felt like as a young woman in the spotlight
Get thee to a nunnery... or not!
Surviving SURVIVOR
Unemployment and creative reinvention in the arts
Links & Mentions:
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_piamiranda
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This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
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Shane Jacobson: Beyond Kenny — The Man Behind the Laughs
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
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Follow Shane Jacobson
Instagram: https://instagram.com/theshanejacobson
Website: https://shanejacobson.com.au
Like, Comment & Subscribe
If you love real stories from real Aussie legends, hit the like button, subscribe to the channel, and drop a comment about your favourite Shane Jacobson role.
ShaneJacobson #McLarenVersus #SpencerMcLaren
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