The Christian O’Connell Show

Christian and the team reflect on a week shaped by resilience, community, and unexpected kindness. From heartfelt moments with first responders to stories that remind us how small gestures can mean everything, this episode captures a city pulling together. Along the way, Christian shares personal highlights, surprising encounters, and a few classic cultural oddities, from hidden historic pubs to panthers that may or may not exist. There’s humour, humanity, and a genuine sense of connection as the team gets to know Sydney beyond the postcard version.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What began as a plan to welcome Sydney with festive hams quickly shifts in response to a difficult week, with the team deciding to pass those small gifts on to first responders instead. Josh heads to Bondi to personally thank surf lifesavers and police, hearing firsthand stories of bravery, quiet resilience, and compassion in the aftermath of recent events. From silent beaches to unexpected moments of kindness, it’s a moving reminder of the people who show up when it matters most. If this conversation brings up difficult feelings, support is available. You can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 confidential support, or visit lifeline.org.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we continue getting to know Sydney, the city they’re temporarily calling home. Sharing powerful stories of kindness and resilience in the wake of tragedy, including a moving email from listener Brad about people lining up for hours to donate blood. There’s also room for lighter moments as the team dives into some of Sydney’s quirks, from the mythical panther to the ongoing seagull problem, and even a visit from a listener who claims to remember Saga World, the short lived theme park of the 90s. It’s a thoughtful mix of heart, humour, and discovery. This episode contains discussion of violence, terrorism, and loss, which some listeners may find distressing. Listener discretion is advised. If this conversation brings up difficult feelings, support is available. You can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 confidential support, or visit lifeline.org.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In an extraordinary moment during an already devastating week, the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese interrupted the show live to speak directly to the nation. He shared words of unity and resolve following the anti-Semitic terrorist attack on a Hanukkah celebration, reflecting on the meaning of light over darkness and the strength of Australians coming together in grief and defiance. The Prime Minister also provided an update on Ahmed, the Australian Hero whose bravery saved lives, and honoured other everyday heroes who ran toward danger. We spoke about national unity, community support, blood donations, candlelight vigils, public safety, gun laws, and how Australians move forward without letting fear win. A powerful, emotional conversation about leadership, courage, and the values that define Australia at its best. This episode contains discussion of violence, terrorism, and loss, which some listeners may find distressing. Listener discretion is advised. If this conversation brings up difficult feelings, support is available. You can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 confidential support, or visit lifeline.org.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re still in our first week of breakfast in Sydney, and today is all about saying thank you and getting to know you. We share some of the incredibly kind messages and surprise gifts we’ve received so far, including a Bakewell tart and a cake that made our day. We chat with listeners about the things that matter to them, from pesky seagulls to the legendary Sydney panther, and throw around a fun idea to celebrate HSC students with a billboard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.