Ugly Phil
Ugly Phil O’Neill is a radio legend and for anyone over the age of 30, he’s probably best known for his time as host of the Hot30 Countdown with his then-wife, Jackie O.
Phil’s story is one of focus and determination. He started his career in Western Australia where he applied for a radio gig despite having no experience. His first shift was a disaster but he was determined to make it in the industry he loved.
Radio had been a huge source of comfort for him as a lonely kid and over the years he’s moved all over the country and the world to keep working in the business he’s so passionate about.
In this episode, Ugly Phil talks about why he decided to leave one of the biggest shows in radio in the early 2000s, the twelve-step process of getting his career back on track and what it’s like to fall from the top.
Listen to the full interview with Ugly Phil here…
Enjoyed this interview with Ugly Phil? Listen to more interviews just like this on You’ve Gotta Start Somewhere.
Additional bits and pieces
This is the road trip Phil took to his first job in South Headland, WA, all the way from Kempsey, NSW when he was 17 years old…
Listen to the first break of Ugly Phil’s final episode of The Hot 30 Countdown in 2001 (prepare for a musical trip down memory lane)…
Reviews for You’ve Gotta Start Somewhere
- Tommy LittleDecember 25, 2022 by Penein from Australia
Chap sticks causing you to require more chap stick is true. I stopped using that and bought a small tube of White Soft Paraffin from the chemist. Lasts ages just a very small dab on your finger put on lips lasts all day or night. Try it Rachel I’m 75 on medication that dries me out I keep a 5 gram tube in my bag or next to the bed it works wonders. Love your show very enjoyable . Gail
- Fantastic- Love it!December 29, 2020 by BackOBourke Snapper from Australia
Cannot believe I’ve only just discovered this great podcast. Rachel is fantastic and the guests are top notch. I hope you will do more in 2021 please!!!!
- Amazing!!May 14, 2020 by ACC0610 from Australia
Really genuine people being interviewed and I love that it feels like a casual chat
- Loving it!April 25, 2020 by Smurdy88 from Australia
Just discovered this podcast while in iso. Loving it, so interesting to hear how people got their start in their careers. Super inspiring! Loved the Ben Fordham episode!
- Love this! Currently bingeingFebruary 20, 2020 by Jules Mess from Australia
Hey Rach! LOVE the pod cast have just discovered it and currently bingeing it on my drives too and from work. So awesome to hear about famous media folk with their normal stories and fascinating to hear how they came to be where they are to day and the work they put in. I’m particularly loving hearing the stories of women, and also about folk with anxiety and that so many famous people still struggle with this common issue and something I battle daily! I’m not in the media world but it’s super inspiring to listen to the bizarre avenues that lead people to success as well as the really normal experiences that lots of people can relate to. I would LOVE to hear your story of how you came to be where you are today. Keep it up!! Julie
- Do yourself a favour; listen inJanuary 8, 2020 by Real Soup For The Real Soul from Australia
This show is as good for inspiration as it is for entertainment. Rach is a delight to listen to and the effort she puts into showcasing the fact that rarely is there such thing as an overnight success is something that is valuable in the day and age of instant gratification. Thanks Rach, I love your show and am grateful for the work that you do!
- So insightful!December 7, 2019 by mkstvns from Australia
Loving this show. Very insightful, inspiring, motivating. It’s so great to know that the journey is messy for everyone and that a few failures and obstacles don’t have to mean it’s all a waste of time. Thanks, Rachel!
- AwesomeAugust 17, 2019 by mvil2019 from Australia
I love this podcast, Rach. Thank you. Steve Price next?
- Want to listen to them allAugust 15, 2019 by ozchik from Australia
Just listened to the Carrie Bickmore episode which was really wonderful. Heartwarming, funny, honest and genuine. So happy that I've found a new podcast with lots of back episodes to catch up on. Thank you Rachel Corbett. Hope you've got even more in the pipeline.
- Yay!August 5, 2019 by AnnaR67 from Australia
Love this podcast! The interviews are fun, informative & interesting- Been one of my favs for quite a while now. Thank you!
- Lucky discoveryJuly 27, 2019 by Kayles S B from Australia
I was actually looking for something else when I stumbled upon this great podcast - authentic, easy to listen to, entertaining, funny, interesting guests, great questions, my new favourite. As a podcast producer I make long episodes but rarely listen to full episodes of any show but this pod is worth it well done Rachel.
- Late to the partyJanuary 24, 2019 by Bec Zanzi from Australia
I’m a little bit late to this podcast and it seems that Rachel may not be doing them anymore but I’m really enjoying the conversations. I hope you get back to it soon buddy(you know, with all that spare time ya have).
- So happy you are backJanuary 4, 2019 by Ritebackatya from Australia
So happy this Podcast is back after 6 months. Good things come to those who wait. Derryn Hinch was excellent. Well done Rachel ??
- Absolutely Brilliant ListeningNovember 13, 2018 by Nikkiburke85 from Australia
I stumbled upon this podcast searching for something/anything to keep my mind busy while facing 2 solo 7 hour training runs on the weekend and boy did this podcast deliver. I love how it feels like you’re sitting in the room with Rachel and her guests. Rachel is so beautifully down to earth and her guests sound so comfortable with her. The guests can’t help but open up and reveal all the ups and downs, hard work and determination it’s taken for them to get where they are now. Bravo Rachel, I’m loving your work and I’m getting so incredibly motivated by your podcast!
- Great 1-on-1 interviewsAugust 30, 2018 by jdpkart18 from Australia
This show is all about the backgrounds of various celebrities, comedians, and journalists, and how they came to be in their current position. Rachel does a great job of pouring through the interviewees backgrounds and showing the audience just how tough it can be to get where these people are. Great advice is always offered to everyone listening as to how to get into the various businesses that these people are in. If you are interested in getting into journalism, radio, or TV, or just want to find out the backgrounds of some famous people, then this is definitely worth listening to.
- Love it.August 15, 2018 by Tarzypants from Australia
In the words of Rachel Corbett “this podcast is not S***!”
- Fantastic!August 14, 2018 by Leniluna from Australia
Just listened to the Meshel Laurie episode and loved it!! She is one of my idols so loved the chat with her, Rachel you and her gelled so well and loved the similarities you shared with both your paths to where you are now, made for a fantastic interview!
- Love it!July 28, 2018 by KelliH27 from Australia
I really enjoy listening to this podcast - great interviews with hard-working Aussies make for awesome listening! Thoroughly recommend for anyone interested in showbiz or what it takes to be successful. Would love to hear an episode with Kitty Flanagan, Julia Morris, Lisa Wilkinson, Susie Youssef or Dilruk Jayasinha.
- I love this podcast!July 27, 2018 by Miss Chardy from Australia
Great Podcast Rach, you are an absolute champ and I could listen to you all day. Thanks a million.
- Inspiring and entertainingJuly 21, 2018 by Glenally from Australia
Love this podcast. Very informing and encouraging. Great questions in a relaxed style.
- Love this podcast!!July 10, 2018 by DonnaRobb from Australia
Rachel Corbett, you rule. Love listening to you and your chats with people. Suggestions- all of the Sunrise team. Melissa Doyle, your fellow Mamamia Outloud host, Holly Wainwright, Lisa Wilkinson, Carrie Bradshaw.
- Love itJune 28, 2018 by ficrowey from Australia
Fascinating interview. The journalists are amazing and show the hard work needed. I would love to listen to some shows about some behind the scenes people including producers and writers - someone like Michael Lucas. Even a composer etc.
- LouiseJune 14, 2018 by lionel 2 from Australia
One of my favourite podcasts, always interesting and always funny. Rachel has such a infectious laugh.
- good fun.. and interestingJune 6, 2018 by timdawg123 from Australia
A must listen for aspiring journos... interesting and instructive.. and a good laugh
- Love this!June 5, 2018 by Wantedtostop from Australia
I accidentally stumbled across this podcast and am so happy I did!
- A great find!May 31, 2018 by NaeOz from Australia
Rachel is smart, warm and funny. You will not be disappointed.
- RachelMay 31, 2018 by tulula velucos from Australia
Love this podcast. Good Aussie stories. Rachel is a great host. Asks fabulous questions. Comes across natural and gets the most out of her guests!!
- The harder you work, the luckier you get!May 26, 2018 by douggyi from Australia
This podcast is full of stories from familiar faces and voice of Australian media, telling how they "got lucky" through hard work, determination and being willing to start at the bottom to make it in their profession.. Rachel seems to have the trust of her peers in a way that makes them quite happy to let down their guard and discuss their own mistakes, failures, successes and strengths with honesty and humility.
- Sensational podcastMay 17, 2018 by Benlux1 from Australia
Been following Rach since the triple m days and as always this is another nugget of gold. Great job Rach????
- Hamish MacdonaldMay 7, 2018 by ByrneKylie from Australia
UNPUTDOWNABLE! Can I describe a podcast that way? This was your best ep yet, Rachel. What a story teller is Mr Macdonald. I’m usually a car-only podcast listener but this one came to the supermarket and I couldn’t leave the car to get my child from after school care until it ended. Apologies to my child! THANK YOU! Hamish, fear not about returning the advance; you’ve got many books in you.
- Love this show!!May 7, 2018 by haleyb565 from Australia
It’s so awesome finding out more about the famous faces I’ve been watching on my TV all these years. It’s made me like them even more!!!
- Fan GirlMay 6, 2018 by ChampersKath from Australia
Hey Rachel you have a new fan. I love your podcasts and keen to listen each time you have s new one up. I think Gorgi has been my fav one followed by Sylvia and Amanda. Keep them coming I’m hooked!
- Not workingMay 4, 2018 by queenbatman from Australia
Why are some of these podcasts not working??? They suddenly stop half way and don’t continue
- Great ListeningMay 2, 2018 by Tommy Ruff from Australia
This is a fascinating podcast. Like many celebrity interviews sometimes the listener is delighted and sometimes nauseated. When Merrick Watts waxes lyrical about his amazing talent and destiny in radio it was hard not to snigger at the ego required to blurt this stuff out. Oh dear what a boofhead. But other guests are fabulous and the interviewer does a good job
- Love your workApril 29, 2018 by Mini-Kb from Australia
Have listened to all of your podcasts in You've gotta start somewhere. Love them all and so so pleased you're back for another series Rachel. I listen to you on the Out Louders and know you're very busy but please keep this series running...it's fantastic.
- Love this podcastApril 28, 2018 by Deanna Elle from Australia
You are nailing this podcast Rachel. A fabulous interviewer with fabulous guests. You are interesting, well spoken and a pleasure to listen to. Love this podcast!
- What a treatApril 16, 2018 by Nattiejack from Australia
Just found your awesome podcast - enjoying bingeing away to my hearts content. Love the relaxed style and the many many laughs. Thanks for the hours of fun.
- You Gotta Start SomewhereApril 13, 2018 by tom_ibbott from Australia
Rachel Corbett - great interview style. Love the rapport you create; puts your subjects at complete ease. Your choice of rabbit-warren to go down with subjects always yields rewards. Go on, try to get Malcolm Turnbull.
- Love itApril 10, 2018 by queenbatman from Australia
Funny, intriguing and entertaining! Please interview Carrie Bickmore!!
- Who's who of Aussie comedyFebruary 24, 2018 by Olympic comedy from Australia
As a TV comedy writer, this podcast has been fantastic. It's great to have the most elusive figures in entertainment in your ears for an hour.
- Great show. I enjoy the Radio focussed guests most!February 1, 2018 by AE618 from Australia
A really enjoyable show, with a strong host and great guests. The radio guests are the most enjoyable for me, as they're funnier and seem more comfortable in the Podcast format. Hoping to hear more from the Radio community in future episodes.
- Tops ?November 23, 2017 by Prr1234 from Australia
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- This is great listening!October 19, 2017 by France the Chef from Australia
Rachel's conversational style of interviewing makes for easy and entertaining listening. The guests come from all walks of lives and all offer some inspiration as well as insight into what makes them tick. Suggestions for guests: Gotye Jet Will Anderson Scott Pape Eddie McGuire Waleed Aly
- Love itOctober 18, 2017 by queenbatman from Australia
Funny, intriguing and entertaining!
- Great listeningSeptember 30, 2017 by walking nic from Australia
Rachel’s interviews are insightful, and I have enjoyed listening to such a different variety of people. Would like to hear from more women in the industry
- Great Aussie ContentSeptember 27, 2017 by Skybeejazz from Australia
Love checking in on this every week to hear how household names started out. Can't wait to hear Julia Morris one day!
- Magnificently refreshingSeptember 19, 2017 by GLEE 688 from Australia
What a magnificently refreshing podcast! Such easy listening, it's informative, funny and without any pretence whatsoever. It actually changed my perspective about what I though of some of the guests. Goes to show a radio or TV persona never really is quite what it seems. Keep them coming!
- Such good listeningSeptember 17, 2017 by Zena from Australia
Fab listening to all the chats with a wide range of well known Aussies. Such great stories from interesting individuals. Look forward to every episode!
- Entertaining and educational!September 16, 2017 by Shawn of SA from Australia
If you are only just learning of this fascinating deep dive into some fantastic guests history go right back to Rachel's first episode and enjoy the entire back catalogue; as this is what I've just finished doing and I can only say, wow. Rachel has a rough plan for each interview but enjoys the winding path her guests take her on through their own stories to how they got to where they are today. Highly recommended it to anyone who enjoys some great conversation as well as those who are interested in the Australian media business. Keep up the great work Rachel!
- Love itSeptember 13, 2017 by JKontheradio from Australia
Hey Rachel, just wanted to take a minute to let you know I LOVE the podcast. Having spent 11 years working on the radio and occasionally getting jaded, listening to the stories from others in the industry always gives me a dose of reality & also inspiration to keep grinding! Loving it, cheers Jack
- Love It!September 13, 2017 by KeroMX from Australia
Hi Rachel, love the podcast.
- FascinatingSeptember 6, 2017 by Sarahloucross from Australia
5 star podcast all the way! It is so great to hear week after week!! A real insight into what it takes + Rach is a great host!! Would love to hear from Mark Ferguson, Jackie O, Tim Blackwell, Matt Okine ???? & Amanda Keller ?
- Brilliant podcast - please keep them comingSeptember 4, 2017 by DanielIzzo from Australia
Rachel - it's an delight hearing such natural conversations. You have a great ability to ask intriguing questions whilst at the same time letting the guest take the lead. One question - where's Tommy Little? I heard the teaser for him and the podcast never came through! Hopefully we get access to this soon. Would also love to hear any of the following guests: - Any of the Working Dog boys - Jane Kennedy - Kate Langbroek - Grant Denyer Keep up the great work!
- Interesting interviews!August 31, 2017 by ethicalmilk from Australia
This is a great podcast and I've been working my way through all the episodes as I travel to and from work. It's such easy listening and I'm learning so much interesting facts abd bits about people I see and hear on TV, radio and through the media. Rachel is a natural interviewer and knows how to get the most out of her subjects. Fascinating stories are shared and it's great to learn how people worked their way up to the point they are now. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to find out how to get started in showbiz!
- OutstandingAugust 30, 2017 by Clinton Maynard from Australia
An outstanding listen for anyone interested in how the Australian media actually works. Rachel is very easy to listen to, never bores and you actually hear how big names got their start. If you want to work in media this is must listen.
- Thoroughly EnjoyableAugust 23, 2017 by JudithHS from Australia
Just listened to my first episode which was Leigh Sales and was delighted and entertained the entire time. I had my son, who is a wannabe actor, in the car listening and I just kept thinking " I hope you are taking in what Leigh is saying about never say no"! Have come back to subscribe and download earlier interviews. People are fascinating.
- Easy listening. Genuine story tellingAugust 19, 2017 by Zoe-96 from Australia
I'm loving all of these eps, even those featuring people I don't know anything about. Rach's (yes, I feel like we're on nickname basis now) interviewing style makes it feel as though you are part of a casual catch up with mates. Looking forward to more!
- Fantastic insight into media industry.August 6, 2017 by Firstclassmale from United Kingdom
If you watch/listen to media people and you think "i can do that" well listen to this podcast. Although this podcast is Australian. It is possable you may have heard of some of the personalities on the shows. Rachel Corbett is great as the host. Having worked on TV and radio for many years she understands the in's and outs of the industry. Please give it a go.
- Quoll-e-teaJuly 29, 2017 by Magoo88 from Australia
Great podcast with great insights. But most importantly, I've attained a newfound respect for a lot of your guests. You only hear so much from mainstream media outlets, but when these people are telling their stories, you garner so much more. So thank you for that and apologies to those in the industry who have to put up with constant prejudging but still put on a brace face. I know the majority of the population couldn't do it. But we forget they're normal human beings just like us. Ps. Rachel, have you ever gone blonde? You should try blonde. I think you'll suit blonde. Worth a shot
- Sensational podcastJuly 27, 2017 by Benlux1 from Australia
Been following Rach since the triple m days and as always this is another nugget of gold. Great job????
- Where them chicks at?July 25, 2017 by Londush from Australia
It's a great podcast but I'm starting to think you need a penis to start somewhere.
- Excellent new discovery!July 25, 2017 by Shelby775 from Australia
I've just discovered this podcast and I'm already a huge fan. Rachel is a great interviewer and her guests are interesting. I'm looking forward to hearing more.
- Great podcast!July 19, 2017 by Me.BAROSS from Australia
Awesome Podcast with some really interesting people!!
- I'm binging....July 9, 2017 by Scott Kilmartin from Australia
The backstories of the people we read, watch and listen to each day in Aus. Rachel has a relaxed interview style, doesn't try to be the focus and yet is both well researched and funny af. The Waleed Aly and Leigh Sales eps are my favs so far.
- What a show!July 3, 2017 by Dingoboy2 from United States
A great show to "pull back the curtain" & to find out what it takes to get to get in & ahead in the media industry.
- Impressive stuffJune 30, 2017 by _boots from Australia
Loving the podcast. Such great conversation and calibre of guests. Would love you to interview Shaun Micallef. ⚡️⚡️
- Thoroughly enjoying!June 29, 2017 by Abbie_Allen from Australia
I'm thoroughly enjoying these podcasts. I'm not in media but I run multiple businesses and try to put myself out there. I so love hearing the "behind the scenes" and the 'real' stories from people who so often just seem so put together when in reality they're just like me! 😉 Thank you Rachel - keep the episodes coming!
- Can't stop listeningJune 26, 2017 by lizabethkate from Australia
Such an engaging enjoyable podcast.
- Something for everyoneJune 22, 2017 by Hardcore Troubadour from Australia
Informative & insightful if you're interested in the media. Very entertaining if your interest is the guests. Rachel is a delightful host who brings out the best in those she talks to.
- Insightful and Hilarious!June 10, 2017 by tarabman from Australia
A great insight into the hardships of the industry. Throughly enjoy listening to the stories each week - brilliant, honest and so many laughs along the way.
- Fascinating stories.June 9, 2017 by Nyonkin from Australia
Two episodes in and I'm hooked. Really interesting hearing the stories. Especially enjoyed the Ugly Phil episode. I too had Fox FM on in the shower as a teenager. Good times listening to the Hot 30 back then and was fascinating to hear his journey.
- Love it!June 8, 2017 by Morgs_PM from Australia
It can always been harder to find really good Australian stories and This Podcast is so refreshing to listen to! It keeps getting better!
- A great and always entertaining podcast!May 17, 2017 by Philloau from Australia
I have been a big fan of Rachel Corbett for some time so its great to see her produce another great podcast! While all episodes are great, I really enjoyed the Paul Murray episode. It resonated with me a lot!! Good job Rachel, I cant wait to hear more!
- Great StorytellingMay 17, 2017 by mike_boyd from Australia
Akin to Radio Game Changers, this podcast is a brilliantly produced series of yarns with some big names who staked everything to succeed.
- Salut!April 26, 2017 by Reverend B Daddy from Australia
In a world of Insta-Happiness, its refreshing to hear some of the painful peak experiences that further fuel the passion of these success stories. #iloveajourney
- A Great ProgramApril 18, 2017 by RAMA497 from Australia
I love hearing all the stories from the interviewees. They all have been very interesting to listen to. Thank you.
- Rach is back!April 13, 2017 by model 101 from Australia
Love the show. Great to hear her and friends again
- Rolled GoldApril 6, 2017 by Cammmmmmo from Australia
Great podcast for anyone with aspirations of a career in the media.
- Insightful podcastMarch 29, 2017 by Jess Campo from Australia
Rachel has a lovely style, funny, refreshing, a brilliant story teller. I love the insight into how eveyone made it, her guests lifting back the curtain. There's no such thing as an overnight success!
- FascinatingMarch 28, 2017 by gets22 from Australia
Rachel is a natural host - can't wait for more!
- Genuine stories with a lot of fun thrown inMarch 25, 2017 by Trevor Long from Australia
Outstanding Rach, loved the two Ive heard and will be right on every one from now on. Great to hear genuine before they were famous type stories...
- Don't miss outMarch 24, 2017 by EmilieChell5677 from Australia
Rachel has a truly unique style. She is honest, fun and thoughtful. Do yourself a favor and subscribe today.
- Ha!March 24, 2017 by Lissylips from Australia
I love hearing about how some humans ended up where they are ! There's always a story and this podcast topic is brilliant, Rach Like always captures it and enlightens us with humour
- Really good!March 24, 2017 by Amelia2273992 from Australia
Great podcast and lessons really really enjoy it.
- Love it!March 24, 2017 by Julie1234Jones from Australia
A really enjoyable listen. Rachel has such an easy rapport with her guests and each has a great story to share. Good fun.
- Interesting and relateableMarch 24, 2017 by Tim Wong See from Australia
V. relateable Rach, great presenting style and mix of fun and serious. Great listen, keep them coming!
- I listened to her before she was cool...March 24, 2017 by Matt Rutley from Australia
A fun yet grounded and honest little poddy.
- A peak under the hoodMarch 24, 2017 by Gcreate from Australia
If I know Corbett and I think I do - she doesn't dissappoint with this new entertaining poddy full of Corbett style relatability and humour you struggle to get elsewhere. Gotta Start Somewhere is the fly on the wall that gives you a peak behind the curtain/under the hood/mirror mirror of well known faces, before they were faces/voices. Jolly good.
- AmazingMarch 24, 2017 by Rob Loewenthal from Australia
Hilarious, informative and really well produced !!!
- 10March 24, 2017 by Biggest fan 01 from Australia
Big fan of pretty much everything Rachel's done - and these are no exception!
- Solid Gold get around itMarch 22, 2017 by DaZeE80 from Australia
Absolutely love this podcast! Been a massive fan of Rach since Highway Patrol and Paul and Rach. Love hearing her intelligent and funny self. Dead set sign of awesomeness there to get People so chilled and honest! Love ya work Rach ??
- Love it!!! Highly recommendMarch 18, 2017 by Ceejaytee41 from Australia
Awesome interviews and insights into what it takes to make it in showbiz. Can't wait for the next episode!!
- A great insightful honest yarnMarch 17, 2017 by G-Laing from Australia
Rachel Corbett shows once again that she is the essential down to earth presenter who naturally comes across as the kind of person you want to interview the people you've seen and heard on Aussie radios and TVs. No egos, just a good honest chit chat.
- Insightful and funMarch 12, 2017 by Loadmann from Australia
Ok. I got the sample pack ,thanks. I would like to order one of everything thanks ? . Excellent stuff. Rach, I think your continued fearlessness revealing your true thoughts in a jovial fashion will make your interviewees comfortable enough to do the same. Your Podcast skills and you broad array of showbiz contacts leads me to anticipate a daily podcast 🙂 ?…..well most weeks would be nice. I just want to say good luck, we are all counting on you.
- Awesome podcast!March 12, 2017 by Robbie nice from Australia
Funny AND educational! Gives great insight into the stories of the well known faces in the industry! Worth the listen! ?
- Such a great insight into what it takesMarch 10, 2017 by Melleemade from Australia
Can't wait to hear more episodes ... such a great conversational style and super interesting stories that really reveal what it takes to achieve success!
- Love your workApril 7, 2024 by Mini-Kb from Australia
Have listened to all of your podcasts in You've gotta start somewhere. I’m listening again for the second and third time…maybe more….its now 2024. Thankyou Rachel xx