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:

1. The enduring impact of Looking for Alibrandi
2. What fame felt like as a young woman in the spotlight
3. Get thee to a nunnery... or not!
4. Surviving SURVIVOR
5. Unemployment and creative reinvention in the arts

Links & Mentions:

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This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

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:

1. Busiest Man in Showbiz
2. Kenny and the heart of comedy
3. Crafting Edna (Hairspray)
4. The family legacy
5. 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.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm