If there’s one thing Erin Molan knows how to do it’s push the boundaries.
From hosting a breakfast show on 2Day FM to taking the reins of her eponymous program on Sky News Australia and now hosting her own YouTube channel – Molan is always adapting to the shifting media landscape
The veteran broadcaster is now boldly stepping into uncharted territory with her new venture, 69 X Minutes. The project, inspired by a tweet from Elon Musk, represents a fresh, fearless approach to storytelling and content creation that’s already captured the attention of audiences around the world.
The show was announced by both Molan and Mario Nawfal via sizzle reels on their social media accounts. Nawful is no stranger to utilising the platform for program creation. His, The Roundtable Show, is currently the largest show on X, and has played host to a range of guests including Hunter Biden and Musk. Nawfal is also the CEO of International Blockchain Consulting (IBC).
🚨69 X MINUTES IS COMING … THIS SUNDAY
On February 23 at 4:20pm ET the next nail in legacy media comes smashing down….
Inspired by @elonmusk and hosted by @erin_molan — our weekly news show delivers hard hitting news from journalists around the world.
Served unfiltered,… https://t.co/np8upFG4QF pic.twitter.com/PbFWTGsoUD
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) February 22, 2025
Its ethos, according to the post, will aim to present the news in a way that is “unfiltered, unbiased and raw”.
It all started with a tweet
In an exclusive interview with Mediaweek, Molan said the wheels in her head began turning after encountering Musk’s tweet about a new show concept. “When I saw Elon’s post about the show I took a screenshot and then sent it to so many friends of mine saying, ‘oh my gosh this would be amazing – can you imagine?’ she recalls.
The tweet from Musk in question saw the businessman call out for a departure from traditional media practices:
Anyone want to create a hard-hitting show on 𝕏 called 69 Minutes?
I will actually fund it! https://t.co/ZZzgRmZeDZ
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 7, 2025
That spontaneous spark led her to explore the gradually expanding and innovative format that not only challenges traditional media structures but also invites a diverse range of voices and points of views.
“The whole point of X is to provide a platform for so many different voices – I fully expect the show to feature guests whose opinions I won’t agree with – which is brilliant. Echo chambers are dangerous and boring!” Molan asserts, highlighting the show’s commitment to robust and balanced dialogue.
Molan’s connection with the show comes following her departure from Sky News Australia, something she tells Mediaweek, has allowed her the freedom to experiment.
“I’m not just zoning in on one thing right now at all because I’m loving doing my own channels. I’m loving doing my YouTube channel. I’m having so much fun with experimenting with different things,” she explains. “And even this show – I haven’t locked myself into anything – whilst I enjoy it and it works – I’ll do it!”
This unbridled creativity has already translated into impressive numbers, with 29 million views in just a month and a half – a clear signal to advertisers and trade professionals that audiences are eager for innovative, boundary-pushing content.
A perfect balance
For Molan, the venture is not just about shaking up the status quo in media – it’s also about preserving a lifestyle that brings her joy. “I haven’t locked in anything in long term, but I’m so grateful for so many incredible opportunities,” she said..
“I’ve fallen deeply in love with the freedom to still work non stop… but the ability to be present with Eliza (Molan’s daughter) most of the time is heaven. I walk her to school, I pick her up,” she shares. For Molan, it’s this balance of being able to pursue her professional dreams while sharing time with her family that has proven the biggest game changer.
Perhaps most striking in this new chapter is Molan’s refreshing take on risk and failure. “I’m not afraid of failing anymore,” she said. “If I’m not failing – even in a small way – multiple times a day in all the new things I’m trying then I’m not trying big enough things… the fear used to be crippling. I’ve now shifted my perspective entirely on it and it’s been life changing.”
A new era in news
The show’s launch comes at a time as traditional media outlets scramble to adapt to changing viewer habits and expectations.
In Australia, the changes at ABC News has proven one of the most notable examples of trying to toggle the fast-moving and somewhat chaotic landscape. In recent years, Aunty has revamped its digital strategy by launching an integrated online platform that offers live streaming, real-time updates, and on-demand content.
In the commercial space, both Seven and Nine have done the same – shifting away from relying solely on the traditional TV formats and heritage shows – such as the flagship daily 6pm news offering. Instead, both networks have embraced social media channels, interactive online content, and live digital broadcasts to capture viewers who prefer consuming news on the go.
Pictured: Erin Molan