Siobhan Marin
Siobhan is a writer and producer with ABC Radio National, and digital lead for ABC Religion and Ethics. In 2022, Siobhan presented the ABC TV documentary Nude Next Door, which explores the risks, rewards and realities of being on OnlyFans. She delved into the cosmetic enhancement boom for the podcast Face Value, and explored tradwives, cults and conspiracy theories for the podcast This Much Is True. In 2020, Siobhan created and hosted the web series Faith and Fornication. Follow her work on Instagram (@siobhanmelise) and Twitter (@siobhanmelise).
Latest by Siobhan Marin
Why a biblical story is central to South Africa's ICJ case against Israel
The biblical story of Amalek was invoked by Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu following the October 7 Hamas attack. South Africa says this is evidence of genocidal intent. But who were the Amalekites, and why is this relevant to the ICJ case?
Muslim 'milk mums' are not common. But for Raidah, it’s created a special bond with her nephew
Five years ago, Raidah approached her brother with an unusual idea. She wanted to bond their families through an ancient practice that carries implications under Islamic law.
How Christianity has been weaponised by weight loss movements
While Jenny was trying hard to be a good Christian, she was hiding a secret shame — one that can be traced back to biblical times.
Tony was raking in thousands of dollars as a teen drug dealer. His 'darkest period' was yet to come
After abuse tore Tony's childhood apart, he joined a crime gang and became a drug dealer. It almost took his life, but a random street encounter changed everything.
Laura grew up in a fundamentalist sect. When she left, the town turned against her
After spending decades in fundamentalist religious organisations, these Australians are speaking out about what it takes to move on and heal.
'My body could not go on': Why Tricia gave up on 'grind culture'
Between the cost-of-living crisis and the modern-day glorification of "grind culture", the idea of rest feels increasingly unattainable. But the "Nap Bishop" says rest isn't just enjoyable, it's a radical act.
The female form 'shouldn't be a trend'. But social media and pop culture treat it like one
Natasha spent thousands of dollars to attain her curvy, Kardashian-esque physique. But now she's noticed fashion designers and celeb circles are celebrating thinness. What's going on?
'I don't think they know how to handle it': Billie is considered a porn star, and it makes relationships difficult
It's pegged as a platform where girls-next-door can earn fortunes from risqué material. But OnlyFans comes with plenty of risk, and very few reap the rewards.
'Damn, why would you not do this?' The Gen Zs bucking a disappointing trend
Young people aren't volunteering as much as they used to, but those who do say it's the "highlight" of their week. So, are Gen Z "more self-centred" than previous generations, or the most civic-minded yet?
'Oh, who are you kidding now?': Why Kirstie had years of cosmetic enhancement — then ditched it
Many Australians wish they could change the way they look. How can we take back control of this unhealthy fixation?
Keeping up with the Kardashians: Women turning to cosmetic surgery to be 'ethnic but not too ethnic'
A growing number of Australians are having fillers, injectables and other cosmetic surgeries. The procedures raise complex questions about culture and appearance, and about beauty trends that promote a look of 'ethnic ambiguity'.
Tammy Faye sent shockwaves through Christian and LGBTQ+ circles. They're still felt today
With one interview, televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker sent shockwaves through evangelical Christian circles. Decades on, it's still impacting queer Australians.
How to process when reality TV stars aren't who we thought they were
After starring in Netflix’s docuseries Cheer, Jerry Harris was embraced by the likes of Oprah and Ellen. Then he was arrested on child pornography charges. So, how should we process cases like this, when what's presented to us on reality TV feels at odds with 'reality'?
Worried your charity donations get soaked up in admin? Read this
Where do our charity donations actually go? And with bureaucracy and administration costs, can our contributions help the causes — and people — we care about?
This pastor thinks it's 'anti-Christian' to back the religious discrimination bill
The religious discrimination bill is expected to be introduced into Parliament this week. These queer pastors question the bill's necessity, and worry about its consequences.
This Icelandic priestess practises a Viking-era religion, and it's on the rise
Iceland's parliament tried to ban the nation's "first religion" 1,000 years ago. But this pagan belief system is making a comeback.
Emma's mum joined a 'socially dangerous cult' and the family's greatest fear is they can't get her back
Emma's mum was drawn to the idea that her life had a deeper spiritual meaning. But her search for answers led to her a community with dangerous beliefs.
Religion has a 'legitimacy crisis', but these young Australians still believe
Australia's most important Catholic meeting since 1937 is on right now. Here are the changes young Catholics are hoping to see from it.
Alex came to Australia to study abroad. Instead, he says he 'accidentally joined a cult'
Alex's Bible study classes started taking over his life. Then, he found out who was pulling the strings.
'A soft face for saying extreme things': The dangerous elements in the tradwife subculture
The tradwife subculture offers some a chance to devote more time to family, but gives others a hashtag for sharing racist, sexist and homophobic ideas.
Half of Aussies say they're 'feminist'. For Muslim women, it can be more complicated
Half of Australians consider themselves feminists, but for Muslim women the word can carry mixed emotions.
Alexi avoids dating religious women — and he's not alone
Alexi is one of many Australians swiping left on those who list a religion on their online dating profiles, due to experiences on dates.
When Edda hears fighter jets, she feels 'dread'. So she's changing her Anzac Day
For many Australians from Indigenous and migrant backgrounds, Anzac Day can be uncomfortable. But one community in NSW is determined to change that.
Greek Orthodox Australians react to Archdiocese's finances
When Bessy Persenitis read that taxpayer-funded aged care homes had funnelled $31 million into the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, she wasn't surprised. But other Orthodox Australians say their faith in the church remains strong.
MAFS and morality: The outrage on social media poses some ethical dilemmas
Our social media feeds are filled with allegations of abuse against high-profile figures in politics, arts and even reality TV. If we believe victims, can we see the alleged abusers as anything but guilty? And is there ever room for redemption?