Shaping the conversation: A look inside Xi’ Tgħid talk show with Anthea Bonnici Zammit

In an ever-evolving media landscape, finding authentic platforms that champion women’s voices is more important than ever. Enter Xi’ Tgħid, an innovative talk show that brings women together to discuss the topics that shape their everyday lives—from career challenges to societal pressures and from relationships to mental health.

Led by host Anthea Bonnici Zammit, Xi’ Tgħid creates a safe, inclusive space where triumphs and struggles alike are shared with empathy, honesty and a forward-thinking spirit.

In this interview, we delve into the heart of the programme, its mission, its vision and the unique blend of experiences that make Xi’ Tgħid a much-needed voice in contemporary women’s media.

What inspired you to create/host a talk show specifically centered on women’s issues?

The idea stemmed from a deep recognition of the unique challenges and triumphs that women experience across all facets of life. Women’s voices have often been marginalised in discussions about issues that directly affect us—whether it’s health, career or societal expectations. I wanted to create a platform where women’s stories, perspectives and expertise could take centre stage. It’s not just about discussing challenges; it’s about celebrating successes, fostering solidarity and inspiring meaningful change. By addressing topics that matter most to women, I hope to empower not only individuals but also the communities that they influence.

How did you determine the overall theme and format for your show?

The theme and format of the show were carefully designed to create a space that is both inclusive and empowering for women. I wanted the theme to reflect the diversity of experiences and perspectives that women bring to the table. The format—whether it’s panel discussions or expert interviews —was inspired by the need for dynamic and engaging conversations. Each element is structured to foster open dialogue, spark meaningful debate and provide actionable takeaways. Ultimately, it was about striking a balance between addressing serious issues and celebrating the resilience and achievements of women.

What gap in the TV landscape did you feel your show could fill?

I noticed a significant need for a programme that truly prioritises women’s voices and perspectives, especially when it comes to intersectional discussions about issues that directly impact us as women. While there are shows that touch on women’s topics, many of them don’t provide the depth, relatability or focus necessary to spark meaningful conversations. I wanted to create a platform that goes beyond surface-level discussions—one that is unapologetically by women, for women and about women. The aim was to carve out a space where real stories, diverse viewpoints and actionable insights come together to inspire, empower and inform.

Did you have any particular role models or influential talk shows you drew inspiration from?

Absolutely. I’ve always admired talk show hosts who create safe spaces for authentic conversations and amplify underrepresented voices. Shows like The Oprah Winfrey Show and The View have been incredibly influential, not just for their content but for their ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Oprah, in particular, inspired me with her ability to combine empathy, intellect and purpose in her interviews. While drawing from these inspirations, I wanted to shape something unique, focused on women’s issues through a modern, inclusive and culturally diverse lens.

How do you select the show’s topics and guests each week?

We choose topics based on their relevance, impact and ability to spark meaningful conversations. Each week, we ask ourselves: What are the issues women are talking about right now? What stories need more attention? We strive to cover a balance of personal, professional and societal issues that resonate across different demographics. As for our guests, we look for individuals who bring diverse perspectives, whether they’re experts, activists or women with compelling personal stories. We aim for a mix of voices to ensure the conversation is well-rounded and inclusive. Our goal is to create a space where all women feel seen, heard and represented.

What have been some standout moments or most memorable episodes so far?

One of the most memorable experiences for me was hosting our ‘Work and Career Programme.’ It was an absolute honour to sit with so many admirable and strong-willed women who shared their journeys of resilience, ambition and success. From breaking barriers in male-dominated industries to redefining leadership with compassion and vision, their stories were nothing short of inspiring. Hearing firsthand how these women navigated challenges and turned them into opportunities was not only empowering for our audience but also for me personally. It reaffirmed why we created this platform—to celebrate the incredible strength and determination that women bring to every aspect of life. Moments like those remind me of the importance of continuing these conversations.

Have there been any unexpected challenges and how did you handle them?

Absolutely, challenges are inevitable when creating something meaningful. One unexpected challenge was ensuring we struck the right balance between addressing serious issues and maintaining an engaging, approachable tone. Some topics, like mental health or workplace inequality, can be heavy and we wanted to create an environment where these discussions felt both impactful and hopeful.

Another challenge has been managing the logistics of coordinating diverse guests while ensuring every voice feels valued and heard. We addressed this by fostering a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere both on and off set. Our team works closely with guests to understand their perspectives and ensure they feel comfortable and prepared.

Which types of conversations do you find resonate most with your audience?

The conversations that resonate most with our audience are those that are deeply personal yet universally relatable. Topics like work-life balance, navigating relationships, mental health and stories of overcoming adversity tend to strike a chord.

Our viewers are drawn to authenticity, so episodes where women share raw, unfiltered experiences often spark the most engagement. For example, when we discuss career challenges or societal expectations placed on women, it feels like we’re voicing what so many are living but may not always say aloud.

Another area that resonates strongly is solutions-focused discussions. Women don’t just want to hear about the problems; they want actionable insights and stories of triumph that inspire them to move forward.

What feedback from viewers have you found most insightful or surprising?

One of the most insightful pieces of feedback we received came after an episode dedicated to domestic violence. We had an expert and survivors share their stories, and while we anticipated a lot of general comments on the seriousness of the issue, the most surprising feedback came from viewers who reached out to share how they had never realised the signs of emotional abuse until watching the show. Many expressed gratitude for giving them the language and awareness to recognise toxic patterns in their own lives or the lives of those around them. It was eye-opening to see how our platform could directly impact individuals’ understanding of such a complex issue, encouraging them to seek help or support others in similar situations. It reinforced the importance of raising awareness and providing resources for those who might not otherwise know where to turn.

How has hosting this show changed or influenced your own perspective on women’s issues?

Hosting this show has been an eye-opening experience for me. Initially, I thought I understood the challenges women face, but as we’ve covered a wide range of topics from domestic violence to workplace equality to mental health, I’ve gained a much more nuanced understanding of how deeply interconnected these issues are. Listening to personal stories from guests and viewers has also made me more empathetic and aware of the different barriers women encounter, whether it’s societal pressures, systemic inequalities or personal struggles. It’s also helped me realise how essential it is for women to have a supportive, open space to share their experiences. I’ve come to appreciate the strength in vulnerability and how much we can learn from one another when we truly listen. Hosting the show has also pushed me to be more proactive in advocating for change, whether it’s on-screen or off and to continue amplifying voices that need to be heard.

Are there any upcoming episodes or special projects you’re particularly excited about?

I’m particularly looking forward to an upcoming episode where we will dive deep into mental health, specifically how women navigate mental health challenges in a world that often demands perfection. We’ll be exploring the impact of societal pressures, the stigma around seeking help and how we can support each other in creating healthier mental spaces. This is a topic I’m really passionate about, and I believe it’s something that will resonate deeply with our viewers. Alongside that, we have some lighter, yet equally impactful episodes lined up, like a discussion on women in power and how women are changing the landscape of leadership. We’re also going to talk about plastic surgery, not just from a cosmetic angle, but from a mental health perspective—how women’s perceptions of themselves can be influenced by societal standards. These upcoming episodes really balance the serious with the empowering and I’m excited to dive into all of them.

How do you see the show evolving to remain relevant and continue advocating for women’s issues?

As the world continues to evolve, I believe our show needs to stay in tune with both the ongoing and emerging challenges that women face. One way we plan to remain relevant is by consistently responding to the conversations happening in society. For example, we’re looking to bring in more voices from younger generations to address the unique challenges they face, especially with mental health, social media pressures and navigating activism. We also plan to incorporate more interactive elements, such as live audience participation and digital platforms, where viewers can contribute questions and topics. This will ensure that our content not only informs but also empowers our viewers to take action and make meaningful change in their own lives and communities.

Finally, if you could leave the audience with one message about the importance of open dialogue around women’s issues, what would it be?

If there’s one message I’d want to leave with the audience, it is that open dialogue around women’s issues isn’t just about talking, it’s about listening, learning and acting. The more we create spaces where women can speak freely about their experiences, the more we break down the stigma and silence that often surrounds difficult topics like mental health, domestic violence or workplace inequality. Each conversation sparks a ripple effect, encouraging others to speak up, seek help or become advocates themselves. The power of sharing our stories can transform not only individual lives but also entire communities. So, I’d say, keep the conversation going, because when we talk openly, we change the narrative for the better.

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