The Hack Half Hour

If you listen to triple j with any semblance of regularity you'll probably be familiar with the "HACK" radio show on weekdays at 5:30 which basically takes a more in depth look at social issues/hot topics in Australia in an interesting, informative and entertaining way. You'll also probably then be familiar with the spin-off TV show, The Hack Half Hour (Mondays 8:30 ABC2) which has a similar format of mixing pre-recorded footage with interviews from a focus group made up of both regular people and specialists on topics like street fighting, home ownership and porn. It's been showing for a bit over a month now and I highly recommend it if you're interested in what's going on and the ways different people are thinking in the world around you.

I felt compelled to share this show after last Monday's episode in particular, which was about the importance of image in society. Personally, I reckon the sassy philosopher should have gotten more screen time. The ex-anorexic has the view that I can most relate to (and somewhat ironically, she is so stylish!) and Sophia reminds me of Tiffany from Daria. But basically, as a teenage girl watching a program about an issue that is (arguably ridiculously) high on most teenage girls' agendas, I thought it offered a balanced view (although obviously limited by a half hour time limit) and if you're interested you can download or stream the vodcast from here.

Also, if you download 'Myface' (episode 1, about social networking on the internet)- 'OLY SHIT IS THAT BREE BITES IN THE INTRO? We are living in strange times, my friends... That particular episode is well worth watching too I think, for all the MySpace and Facebook addicts out there (don't lie, you love it...) -somewhat eye-opening really. Interests me personally because that online persona has been such a big part of my life, and those of some of my friends too, for the past few years. I'm considering deleting my MySpace account, for reasons I won't expand upon right here and now... And again, it's a good episode because it presents a variety of views on internet privacy, judging people by their profiles, the impact of what you do online on your actual life, etc and I find that sort of thing quite relevant. Just thought I'd share!