The hot flush this Eurovision! Is staying home the new going out?

Send us a textGuess who's back in the Eurovision hot seat? After equipment delays and mental cobwebs, your favourite straight-talking podcast host returns to dissect Eurovision 2025 in all its controversial glory.Eurovision 2025 might not have delivered the strongest musical offerings, but it certainly provided enough drama, debates, and dance battles to keep fans entertained long after the confetti settled. The standout moment? That unexpected lyrical face-off between Baby Lasagna and Käärijä during what was supposed to be a simple interval act. When these two Eurovision icons hit the stage together, not a single viewer could resist squealing with delight. This "Eurodab" battle proved that while winning the trophy matters, sometimes winning the hearts of Eurovision fans is the real victory.Behind the sequins and key changes, this year's contest revealed fascinating cultural fault lines. Finland and Malta's performances highlighted what appears to be "the final taboo" – women's sexuality – triggering global conversations about representation and acceptance. Meanwhile, the enhanced anti-booing technology sparked debates about authenticity versus production values in broadcasting. Is it censorship or simply good television production? We'll unpack these questions and more in upcoming episodes, including a deep dive into the annual voting "controversies" that never seem to surprise yet always manage to inflame the Eurovision community.The podcast takes an unexpected but welcome turn when addressing post-Eurovision depression, offering practical mental health advice and emergency self-care tips (paper plates, anyone?). Whether you're suffering from Eurovision withdrawal or depression, remember that reaching out for professional help isn't weakness – it's winning at life. Subscribe now for our upcoming episodes featuring special guests, including the "continuously shirtless" Sam Tarling and various Eurovision personalities. Until then, take comfort knowing Austria awaits us in 2026!Support the show#eurovision

Send us a textBuckle up for our raw, unfiltered reaction to Eurovision 2025's second semi-final! We're diving into this year's wildest collection of musical offerings before the performances even hit the stage.Australia opens the night with what might be the most polarizing act of the competition – the infamous "Milkshake Man" who's already generating heated debates across the Eurovision community. From there, we journey through the musical extremes that make this competition so addictively watchable: Montenegro's gothic drama, Ireland's bizarre tribute to a Soviet space dog, and Malta's controversially censored "Serving" that has fans ready to rebel against the EBU's language restrictions.The standout performances of the night promise to be Czechia's sultry, Bond-worthy "Kiss Kiss Goodbye" and Austria's operatic vocal showcase that could either soar or crash depending on the live delivery. Meanwhile, Georgia brings traditional dancing elements that will have jury members reaching for their highest scores, while Finland closes the show with a provocative female empowerment anthem that could divide voters.What makes this semi-final particularly fascinating is the clash between jury bait and public favorites. Will the juries ever embrace the theatrical elements that make Eurovision unique, or will they retreat to safer, more traditional performances? And which countries will ultimately secure their spot in the grand final?Ready to join us for this Eurovision journey? Grab your scorecards, prepare your party snacks, and don't forget to hydrate! The road to Switzerland's 2025 Eurovision is about to get very interesting indeed.Support the show#eurovision

Send us a textThe countdown to Eurovision 2025 has begun, and the first semi-final promises a rollercoaster of musical styles, cultural exchanges, and surprising performances. As 15 countries vie for just 10 qualifying spots, clear frontrunners and dark horses are emerging from an eclectic lineup.Sweden breaks tradition by sending their first Swedish-language entry in years with "Bada Badu Bastu" – ironically performed by Norwegians. This sauna-themed anthem with its infectious choreography has fans worldwide attempting to master the dance routine. Yet history suggests the Eurovision jury may once again prevent a quirky crowd-pleaser from claiming the ultimate prize, despite overwhelming public support.The night opens with Iceland's Vibroa, twins delivering an unexpected sea shanty pop fusion that sets a high bar from the start. Estonia follows with "Espresso Macchiato," a coffee-themed bop that curiously out-Italians Italy itself, while San Marino continues this theme with "Tutta l'Italiana," a love letter to all things Italian that somehow captures Italian spirit more authentically than Italy's own entry. This curious trend of countries channeling other nations' cultural identities better than the originating countries themselves runs throughout the competition.The Netherlands' Claude with "C'est la vie" emerges as the first serious contender for the overall crown. This emotionally stirring ballad effortlessly blends French and English lyrics, beginning with soft piano notes before building into something truly special. Its beautiful composition and heartfelt delivery make it a potential winner, exemplifying the best of what Eurovision can offer: unexpected brilliance from unexpected places.Have you made your predictions yet? Will the twerking goths of Poland survive questionable vocal performances? Can Ukraine's cult-like "Bird of Prey" stand out enough to qualify? Watch the live performances to see if my predictions come true, and join me soon for analysis of semi-final two!Support the show#eurovision

Send us a textAfter a long break from the Debbie Downers, Douze Points Podcast is back and reporting for duty at Eurovision 2025!Join us as we deep dive into Switzerland's drawers and rummage through her past to bring you all you need to know to impress around the pub this Eurovision.Switzerland rich in, well riches and mountains but lacking in good noodles and seaman. Come learn some bizarre facts as we get to know the land that will be bringing us Eurovision 2025. NO SONG SPOILERS INCLUDED!Support the show#eurovision

Send us a textA lead performer for Eurovision Semi Final 1 was raced into hospital for an embarrassing illness. Will they be able to pull it together for the big show or are they about to drop Douze points? Can you guess who?But in good news we have just invented a new drinking game. It's important to find those rainbows in the grey skies.Relax, have a drink or twelve, Eurovision 2024 is here!Support the show#eurovision

Send us a textLook we have a question to ask. Honestly, once you see it, you can't unsee it. We question some fashion choices as people prepare for the big show. We also look at some tips to avoid Euro fatigue and how to recapture your Euro mojo.Support the show#eurovision

Send us a textThis week Liz received some hate mail and in response she just wants to spread some love and asks if we can all just be kind to each other for three minutes. If we can change for three minutes, maybe we can change the world. Respect. Love. Positivity. Hope. Equality. Peace. Support the show#eurovision

Send us a textNo spoilers episode. This week we take a look at the new Grand Final rules and the 'controversial' 13 Producers Picks in the running order. Is this going to be a runaway success or a runaway trainwreck? Tell us your thoughts. Support the show#eurovision

Send us a textThis episode Petra Mede makes a big announcement, is it the resurrection of Eurovision's greatest musical halftime act? Meanwhile, Estonia reaches out to the other side of the veil and plays a Eurovision winning playing card. Find out what they're playing and more. All episodes streaming now on your favorite service!Support the show#eurovision

Send us a textIn this episode we examine another three songs getting ready to sprinkle their unique touch on the Eurovision 2024 stage. Will it stick or will it be blown away? We know one Lord who's not onboard.We take a look at the public polls and Liz has a private moment in the archive room. File this one under X for X Files!The Douze Points Podcast is 100% Australian, 50% serious, 1000% Eurovision!Support the show#eurovision