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Big Ideas podcast

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Big Ideas

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Feed your mind. Be provoked. One big idea at a time. Your brain will love you for it. Grab your front row seat to the best live forums and festivals with Natasha Mitchell.

Feed your mind. Be provoked. One big idea at a time. Your brain will love you for it. Grab your front row seat to the best live forums and festivals with Natasha Mitchell.

 

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#250

Writers who rock — on the art of music writing

Three of Australia's best music writers share their craft, and reveal what it's like to sit down with some of music's biggest names. [This event was recorded on 2 November 2024] (https://www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au/event/writers-who-rock-the-art-of-writing-about-music) at the Art Gallery of Ballarat. Speakers [Stuart Coupe] (https://www.penguin.com.au/authors/stuart-coupe) Author, journalist, radio broadcaster, music commentator, publicist at Stuart Coupe Publicity [Jane Gazzo ] (https://www.janegazzo.com/) Music Journalist, TV Presenter, Author ( her new book is [I Hear Motion] (https://melbournebooks.com.au/products/i-hear-motion) ), MC, Public Speaker, founder and presenter [Action Time Vision - ATV] (https://www.instagram.com/atvliveau/) [Michael Dwyer] (https://www.smh.com.au/by/michael-dwyer-gs6ttn) Music journalist, lecturer and member of David Bowie ukulele tribute band [The Thin White Ukes] (https://www.instagram.com/thethinwhiteukes/) [Zan Rowe ] (https://www.abc.net.au/listen/doublej/zan-rowe/8164768) (host) ABC Music correspondent, Double J and Take 5 host Further information: The exhibition [From Medieval to Metal: The art & evolution of the guitar] (https://www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au/explore/exhibitions/medieval-to-metal) is on at the Art Gallery of Ballarat until 2 February 2024 ... Read more

24 hrs Ago

53 MINS

53:30

24 hrs Ago

#249

How surfing writer Tim Baker and doctor Peter Goldsworthy learnt to live well and laugh with cancer

Meet two men who will change the way you think about an experience most of us fear but will be touched by in some way.  In Patting the Shark, surfing writer Tim Baker describes his wild ride to reclaim a sense of control and agency after a cancer diagnosis. Celebrated author and GP Peter Goldsworthy’s memoir The Cancer Finishing School started out as a journal but became so much more.They join Natasha Mitchell for intimate an intimate, revelatory, funny, and generous conversation about the Big C and how medicine needs to change.  This event was hosted by the [2024 Queenscliffe Literary Festival] (https://www.queenscliffeliteraryfestival.com.au/) Speakers [Tim Baker] (https://www.bytimbaker.com/) Journalist, editor, patient advocate, PhD candidateAuthor, Patting the Shark: A surfer's journey — learning to live well with cancer (Ebury Australia/Penguin, 2022) [Dr Peter Goldsworthy] (https://www.petergoldsworthy.com/) GP, author, librettist, poetAuthor, The Cancer Finishing School —lessons in laughter, love, resilience (Penguin, 2024) ... Read more

Yesterday

54 MINS

54:05

Yesterday

#248

The fight to protect abortion in the United States — with Dr Angel Foster

What does Donald Trump's return to the White House mean for reproductive health in America? ... Read more

21 Jan 2025

53 MINS

53:13

21 Jan 2025

#247

The Knowledge Gene — the incredible story of the supergene that gives us human creativity

Prepare to have your mind blown with a sweeping saga that connects human evolution, brains, genes, art, music, creativity, knowledge, dyslexia, autism, Indigenous memory systems, and more. A big, beautiful and biological saga about how to learn like a human again. Joining Natasha Mitchell are Australian Senior Memory Champion, scientist and author Dr Lynne Kelly with artist Jane Rusden and musician and educator Hilary Blackshaw.  This event was hosted by the [2024 Mountain Festival ] (https://mountainfestival.com.au/) in Macedon, Victoria. Speakers [Dr Lynne Kelly] (https://www.lynnekelly.com.au/) Science writerAuthor, The Knowledge Gene: the incredible story of the supergene that gives us human creativity (Allen and Unwin, 2024)Author, The Memory Code (Allen and Unwin, 2016) Adjunct Research Fellow, [School of Humanities and Social Sciences] (https://www.latrobe.edu.au/school-humanities-and-social-sciences) , La Trobe UniversityHonorary Fellow, [School of Physics] (https://physics.unimelb.edu.au/) , University of MelbourneHilary BlackshawMusician and musical educator [Bendigo Musical Instrumental Program] (https://www.bimp.org.au/our-teachers) [Jane Rusden] (https://www.janerusden.com/) Artist ... Read more

20 Jan 2025

54 MINS

54:05

20 Jan 2025

#246

Is there life on Mars?

It's a question that has focused the minds of astronauts, scientists, space entrepreneurs and enthusiasts alike — is there, could there be, life on Mars? The race is on to find out, with NASA hoping to land astronauts there by the late 2030s. Because of its similar conditions to Earth, they're hoping the red planet could hold clues to the enduring mysteries of how life began, and whether we are alone in the universe. This event was recorded at the [World Science Festival Brisbane] (https://www.worldsciencefestival.com.au/) in partnership with the [Queensland Museum] (https://www.museum.qld.gov.au/) and the [Big Questions Institute] (https://www.bqi.com.au/) on March 22, 2024. Original Big Ideas broadcast on 16 April 2024. Speakers [Professor Tamara Davis] (https://smp.uq.edu.au/profile/186/tamara-davis) Astrophysicist, University of Queensland [Professor Kathleen Campbell] (https://profiles.auckland.ac.nz/ka-campbell) Astrobiologist, University of Auckland [Professor Martin Van Kranendonk] (https://www.curtin.edu.au/news/media-release/leading-geologist-and-early-earth-expert-heading-to-curtin/) Astrobiologist and geologist, Head of the School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Curtin University [Dr Jorge Vago] (https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Mars_Express/Jorge_Vago) ExoMars Project Scientist, European Space Agency [Dr Graham Phillips ] (https://www.celebrityspeakers.com.au/speakers/dr-graham-phillips/) (host) Astrophysicist, science journalist, former host of Catalyst (ABC) ... Read more

16 Jan 2025

53 MINS

53:04

16 Jan 2025

#245

The delicate complexities of treating mental illness — Jonathan Rosen, Patrick McGorry with Natasha ...

New York writer Jonathan Rosen’s memoir The Best Minds: a story of friendship, madness, and the tragedy of good intentions is a story of tenderness, heartache, and horror as he explores the vexed tensions between civil rights, medical power, and the complexities of recognising and treating severe psychotic illness.  He joins Big Ideas host Natasha Mitchell with psychiatrist Patrick McGorry for a powerful, moving conversation at the 2024  [Adelaide Writers Week] (https://www.adelaidefestival.com.au/writers-week/) Original broadcast on May 1, 2024 Speakers: Jonathan RosenWriter and editorAuthor, The Best Minds: a story of friendship, madness, and the tragedy of good intentions [Patrick McGorry] (https://www.orygen.org.au/About/Our-Leaders/Executive/Patrick-McGorry) PsychiatristExecutive Director, [Orygen] (https://www.orygen.org.au/) Professor of Youth Mental Health, University of MelbourneFounding Director, [Headspace] (https://headspace.org.au/) (National Youth Mental Health Foundation) Further information and support services: [Lifeline Australia] (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) 24x7 Crisis Support line on 13 11 14 [Beyond Blue] (https://www.beyondblue.org.au/) [MensLine Australia] (https://mensline.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwq86wBhDiARIsAJhuphl6i4Ds8BYuS-LvtSSek0jHUiGP8OW-mkaY5so61mMh7v4Au1IRVCYaAtbzEALw_wcB) [SANE Australia] (https://www.sane.org/) [ReachOut Australia] (https://au.reachout.com/) [AFRAFMI - supporting friends and carers of people with mental illness] (https://arafmi.com.au/) [One Door Mental Health] (https://www.onedoor.org.au/)  (formerly the Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW) [Hearing Voices Network] (https://www.hearing-voices.org/) [Mental Health First Aid Australia] (https://www.mhfa.com.au/) [Australians for Mental Health ] (https://www.afmh.org.au/) - advocating for better mental health policy and services in Australia ... Read more

15 Jan 2025

52 MINS

52:25

15 Jan 2025

#244

Mary Beard and the Roman Empire

For decades, Mary Beard has forged her own path through the male dominated field of academia, from the ruins of Rome to the trenches of Twitter, to become "the world's most famous classicist". From the wise Augustus to the hypocritical Tiberius and the barking mad Caligula, Mary Beard uses these Roman rulers as a lens to examine life in their empire, and asks what lessons they can teach us about the world today. This event was recorded at [Adelaide Writers' Week ] (https://www.adelaidefestival.com.au/events/2024-writers-week/mary-beard-empress-of-rome/) and originally broadcast on Big Ideas on 9 April 2024. Speakers [Mary Beard] (https://www.cam.ac.uk/women-at-cambridge/profiles/mary-beard) Author Emperor of Rome, (also Pompeii, Confronting the Classics, SPQR, Women & Power, Twelve Caesars)Professor Emerita of Classics at Cambridge University [Jonty Claypole] (https://redroompoetry.org/about/team/) Writer, documentary producer and arts administratorCEO, Red Room PoetryFormer Director of Arts, BBC ... Read more

14 Jan 2025

54 MINS

54:05

14 Jan 2025

#243

Looking to a healthy future with Helen Clark

We are living in an "age of crises," says former New Zealand prime minister, Helen Clark. With her leadership experience and expertise in governance, politics, and policy, Helen Clark and a panel of health and international relation experts explore the challenges facing the world today and what is needed to achieve a healthier and thriving future for all. proWhile it's easy to feel overwhelmed by complex problems, speaking up about inequality can make a difference. Helen Clark urged everyone to "raise the issues, never give up, and relentlessly campaign". [Politics, policy, and a healthy human future ] (https://health.anu.edu.au/news-events/news/helen-clark-politics-policy-and-healthy-human-future) was hosted by ANU College of Health and Medicine with the Australian Global Health Alliance Original broadcast on May 7, 2024 Speakers [Helen Clark] (https://www.helenclarknz.com/) Former Prime Minister of New Zealand and former UNDP Administrator [Sharon Friel] (https://researchprofiles.anu.edu.au/en/persons/sharon-friel) Professor of Health Equity and an ARC Laureate Fellow in Planetary Health Equity at the ANU School of Regulation and Global Governance [Bina D'Costa] (https://researchprofiles.anu.edu.au/en/persons/bina-dcosta) Professor at the Department of International Relations, ANU Coral Bell School of Asia-Pacific Affairs [Dr Arnagretta] (https://iceds.anu.edu.au/people/academics/dr-arnagretta-hunter) Hunter (host)Human Futures Fellow at ANU College of Health and Medicine, a cardiologist, a physician, and a Senior Clinical Lecturer at ANU Medical School ... Read more

13 Jan 2025

53 MINS

53:30

13 Jan 2025

#242

How traumatic stress hurts us — with Bessel van der Kolk

Bessel van der Kolk, one of the world's foremost experts on trauma, discusses his pioneering research into traumatic stress and its impact on our brains and bodies. Traumatised people experience incomprehensible anxiety, numbing and intolerable rage. Trauma affects their capacity to concentrate, to remember, to form trusting relationships, and even to feel at home in their own bodies. And he explains promising treatments, including neurofeedback, psychedelic therapy, psychodrama … and dance. This talk was presented by the [Sydney Opera House] (https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/talks-ideas/body-keeps-score) Original broadcast on March 26, 2024 Speakers [Dr Bessel van der Kolk] (https://www.besselvanderkolk.com/) Dutch psychiatrist, author, researcher and educatorAuthor of The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Viking Press, 2014 [Sarah Kanowski] (https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/conversations) Presenter of Conversations on RN Helplines 1800 737 732 / 1800RESPECT or visit [ https://www.1800respect.org.au] (https://www.1800respect.org.au/) Blue Knot Helpline and Redress Support Service 1300 657 380 or visit [https://blueknot.org.au/survivors/blue-knot-helpline-redress-support-service/] (https://blueknot.org.au/survivors/blue-knot-helpline-redress-support-service/) ... Read more

09 Jan 2025

53 MINS

53:44

09 Jan 2025

#241

Are national deficits a myth? Stephanie Kelton explodes an economic holy cow

When governments say they can't afford to fix climate change or lift kids out of poverty are they speaking the truth? American economist Stephanie Kelton challenges economic orthodoxy in her book The Deficit Myth: Modern Monetary Theory and the Birth of the People's Economy. She joins Natasha Mitchell in conversation at this 2024 National Sustainability Festival event. ... Read more

08 Jan 2025

54 MINS

54:06

08 Jan 2025

#240

How to cut through political spin — Richard Denniss, Joelle Gergis, Yanis Varoufakis, Tom Keneally w...

Join host Natasha Mitchell and guests for some straight talk that cuts through spin and jargon. Has the way politicians speak ever made you shout at the television, feel bamboozled, helpless,  or shut out of democratic debate over our shared future? Pollie-talk can make important issues opaque, the inequitable seem fair, and the fair seem inequitable. Hear from Richard Denniss (author of Econobabble: How to decode political spin and economic nonsense), Yanis Varoufakis (author of Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism),  Joelle Gergis (author of Humanity's Moment: A Climate Scientist's Case for Hope) and Thomas Keneally (Schindler's List).  Original broadcast on April 24, 2024. ... Read more

07 Jan 2025

54 MINS

54:35

07 Jan 2025

#239

Islands rising — life on the front lines of the climate crisis

Residents of the Pacific and Torres Strait Islands face an existential threat from climate change, as rising sea levels threaten to swallow up their homes and livelihoods. But they are fighting back - calling for Australia and other countries to do more to end investment in fossil fuels and prevent a full blown climate catastrophe. This event was recorded on Kaurna country at [WOMADelaide's Planet Talks] (https://australiainstitute.org.au/event/womadelaide-islands-rising/) on March 9, 2024. With thanks also to The Australia Institute. Original Big Ideas broadcast on 28 May 2024. Speakers Anote Tong President of the Republic of Kiribati 2003- 2016Chair, [Pacific Elders Voice] (https://pacificelders.org/about/) [Yessie Mosby] (https://www.commonground.org.au/contributors/yessie-mosby) Zenadh Kes Masig traditional ownerPlaintiff, Torres Strait 8 [Our Islands Our Home] (https://ourislandsourhome.com.au/) campaign [Tishiko King] (https://www.commonground.org.au/contributors/tishiko-king) Climate and first nations advocateMember, Australian Museum Climate Solutions Centre Advisory GroupBoard Director, [Divers for Climate] (https://www.diversforclimate.com/) [Tiahni Adamson ] (https://cms.australianoftheyear.org.au/recipients/tiahni-adamson) (host) Lead Community Engagement Officer at CH4GlobalLecturer at the University of South Australia2024 Young Australian of the Year (South Australia) ... Read more

06 Jan 2025

52 MINS

52:33

06 Jan 2025

#238

Liberalism as the basis of life?

Liberalism isn't just a political philosophy but the basis of a truly meaningful life. That's the bold statement of philosopher Alexandre Lefebvre, author of the forthcoming book Liberalism As A Way of Life. Should individuals be free to pursue their own passions and interests in life? Does liberalism mean more than freedom of speech and small government? You might not identify as a liberal, but are we in fact all liberals at heart?  The Philosophy You Already Have — a Live Philosophy event was presented in Melbourne at the [Sophia Club] (https://sophiaclub.co/) , from the creators of Aeon and Psyche magazines. Find out more [here ] (https://sophiaclub.co/) about the series. Original broadcast on March 21, 2024 Speakers [Alexandre Lefebvre] (https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691203744/liberalism-as-a-way-of-life) Professor of politics and philosophy at the University of SydneyAuthor of [Liberalism as a Way of Life] (https://www.readings.com.au/product/9780691267661/liberalism-as-a-way-of-life--alexandre-lefebvre--2024--9780691267661#) , Princeton University Press, 2024 [Brigid Hains] (https://aeon.co/users/brigidhains) (host)Editorial director of Aeon Media ... Read more

02 Jan 2025

53 MINS

53:29

02 Jan 2025

#237

Thriving not just surviving with Tibetan master Mingyur Rinpoche, a Sufi scholar and Indian philosop...

Tibetan master Venerable Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche experienced terrifying panic attacks as a little boy. What did he learn about suffering, the Self, and the nature of our mind through coming to understand his own mind? He joins Natasha Mitchell along with an Indian philosopher of mind and a Sufi scholar to wrestle with the self and its dissolution. This event Beyond Self — A journey to connection and wellbeing was organised by [Tergar Australia] (https://www.tergar.org.au/) and the [Monash Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies] (https://www.monash.edu/consciousness-contemplative-studies) . Original broadcast on May 22, 2024. Speakers [Venerable Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche] (https://www.tergarsangha.org/) Tibetan meditation master and head of the Tergar Meditation CommunityAuthor, In Love with the World: What a monk can teach you about living from nearly dying (2019) [Monima Chadha] (https://lens.monash.edu/@monima-chadha) Professor of philosophy, Monash UniversityAuthor, Selfless Minds: A Contemporary Perspective on Vasubandhu's Metaphysics (Oxford University Press, 2023) [Dr Aydogan Kars] (https://research.monash.edu/en/persons/aydogan-kars) Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, Monash UniversityAuthor, Unsaying God: Negative Theology in Medieval Islam (Oxford University Press, 2019) ... Read more

01 Jan 2025

53 MINS

53:11

01 Jan 2025

#236

AC Grayling — How to live well, according to philosophy

You wouldn't be human if you hadn't from time to time wondered what the meaning is of all of this. Who am I? Is there a purpose? Why am I here? And how can I live a good life? Well of course you're not alone – some of history's biggest thinkers have been coming up with answers to these questions for thousands of years. So what can we learn from their conclusions? [This event] (https://mwf.com.au/program/ac-grayling-philosophy-and-life) was recorded at the Melbourne Writers Festival on 11 May, 2024. It was first broadcast on Big Ideas on 27 June 2024. Speaker [AC Grayling] (https://www.acgrayling.com/) Philosopher and author, Philosophy and Life, Exploring the Great Questions of How to Live, and many moreProfessor of Philosophy and Principal of Northeastern University London, Supernumerary Fellow of St Anne's College, Oxford ... Read more

31 Dec 2024

55 MINS

55:25

31 Dec 2024

#235

Laurie Anderson on time and life

Pioneering electronic musician and performer Laurie Anderson invites you contemplate the wonders of time. Time is one of the most impermanent forms of measurement that humans have invented to help manage our lives. We couldn't function without it. Do you feel like you're running out of time? Which way is time going? Are you able to stop time? What is the role of time  in ethics, or how you experience trauma? Laurie shares a creative conversation with twice-Booker-shortlisted author Tom McCarthy as they look to arts and literature for answers. Presented by the [Rubin Museum of Ar] (https://rubinmuseum.org/events/event/laurie-anderson-about-time-02-09-2024/) t. New York City Original broadcast on March 6, 2024 Speakers [Laurie Anderson] (https://laurieanderson.com/) Multimedia artist, musician, film director and author Tom McCarthyAuthor of The Making of Incarnation (2021), Satin Island (2015),  Remainder (2005) ... Read more

30 Dec 2024

54 MINS

54:01

30 Dec 2024

#234

Hugh Mackay — Australian society in the 21st century

From loneliness, to our technology addiction, growing inequality and our shrinking middle class, our faith in God, to the complex legacy of the Baby Boomers, Hugh McKay paints a compelling portrait of modern Australia, and asks some pointy questions about its future. [This event] (https://unisa.edu.au/connect/hawke-centre/events-and-exhibitions/events/2024/hugh-mackay/) was recorded at the Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre at the University of South Australia on May 16, 2024. First broadcast on Big Ideas on 4 July 2024. Speakers [Hugh Mackay] (https://medicine-psychology.anu.edu.au/people/professor-hugh-mackay-ao) Social psychologist and researcherAuthor, [The Way We Are. Lessons from a lifetime of listening] (https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/book/Hugh-Mackay-Way-We-Are-9781761470059) and many more [Julia Lester] (https://www.unisa.edu.au/Student-Life/Support-services/Student-administration/Graduations/Ceremonies/Guest-speakers-and-honorary-award-recipients/2018/ms-julia-lester/) (host) Journalist, broadcaster, presenter ... Read more

26 Dec 2024

56 MINS

56:22

26 Dec 2024

#233

Holly Ringland helps you to get creative

Best-selling author Holly Ringland says that everyone can be creative – yes, even you! Be it painting, cooking, knitting a jumper or writing a song. It's often self-doubt and the fear of criticism and judgement that's holding you back. The voice in your head telling you that you're not good enough. It doesn't have to be like this. In The House That Joy Built, Holly Ringland explains how to 'get unstuck' and to give yourself permission to be creative. This conversation was presented at the [Reading bookstore] (https://www.readings.com.au/) .  Original broadcast on March 5, 2024 Speakers [Holly Ringland] (https://hollyringland.com/) Australian author and TV presenter The House That Joy Built (2023) The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart (2018), winner of the 2019 General fiction book of the year award at the Australian Book Industry Awards. The book was adapted into a television miniseries in 2023. The Seven Skins of Esther Wilding (2022) [Kate Mildenhall] (https://katemildenhall.com/) Australian author – Skylarking (2016), The Mother Fault (2020), The Humming Bird Effect (2023) Listen to Big Ideas - [ Diversity in arts, culture and the creative sector] (https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/bigideas/diversity-in-arts,-culture-and-the-creative-sector/11453020) ... Read more

25 Dec 2024

53 MINS

53:53

25 Dec 2024

#232

Lifting the lid — the lost story of an extraordinary Egyptian coffin revealed

A wooden sarcophogas is sold in a Cairo market in the 1800s, transported to Australia, and held in a University of Sydney collection. It remains closed for over a century. And then scientists opened its lid.  What happened next? Two leading Australian Egyptologists join Natasha Mitchell to consider the ethics, history, and science of a quest to understand life and death in Ancient Egypt and get a glimpse into one woman's world over 2500 years ago. But is it really Mer-Neith-It-Es? This event was presented by the [Australian Museum] (https://australian.museum/) as part of the [Ramses and the Gold of the Pharaoh's exhibition] (https://australian.museum/exhibition/ramses/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwwYSwBhDcARIsAOyL0fi3fEmrq-tEk93bZMqMNad49JKefiYTtjnwv6bJKfrRbPpKJWY7uXoaAktfEALw_wcB) . Thanks to Liz Young, Narelle Lewis, and the museum team. Original broadcast on April 10, 2024. Speakers [Ronika Power] (https://researchers.mq.edu.au/en/persons/ronika-power) Egyptologist and Professor of BioarchaeologyDirector, [Centre for Ancient Cultural Heritage and Environment] (https://www.mq.edu.au/research/research-centres-groups-and-facilities/resilient-societies/centres/cache) Macquarie University [Dr Constance (Conni) Lord] (https://sydney.academia.edu/ConniLord) Egyptologist [Chau Chak Wing Museum] (https://www.sydney.edu.au/museum/) , University of Sydney Further information: [The Australian Museum] (https://australian.museum/) [The Mummy Project, University of Sydney] (https://www.sydney.edu.au/museum/our-research/the-mummy-project.html) [Uncovering the secrets of Ancient Egypt] (https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2020/04/08/uncovering-the-secrets-of-ancient-egypt.html) (University of Sydney) [Human remains research project] (https://www.sydney.edu.au/museum/our-research/human-remains.html) The Mummy Project at the Chau Chak Wing Museum (Sydney University Press eBooks, 2022) ... Read more

24 Dec 2024

57 MINS

57:10

24 Dec 2024

#231

Andrew O'Hagan — Literature and truth in the era of fake news, algorithms and artificial intelligenc...

The internet was supposed to make the world more open and connected, but things seem to have taken a dark turn. Scottish author Andrew O'Hagan makes an impassioned case for the role of readers and writing as "frontline workers" in the fight for reality. These events were recorded at the [Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival ] (https://mrrwfestival.com/) on 17 and 19 May 2024. Originally broadcast on Big Ideas on 18 July 2024. Speakers [Andrew O'Hagan] (https://www.instagram.com/andrewohaganauthor/?hl=en) Author Caledonian Road, Mayflies, and moreEssayist and editor-at-large of the London Review of Books [Gillian O'Shaughnessy] (https://gillianoshaughnessy.com/) Writer, moderator, journalist ... Read more

23 Dec 2024

53 MINS

53:30

23 Dec 2024

#230

Eric Bogle tells it all — his songs and his life

Folk legend Eric Bogle is opening up and talks about his life, his thoughts about death, friendship and love and why having a deeper message for writing songs is so much more important than money and fame. It's a rare opportunity to share a conversation with one of the best and most prolific songwriters of the last several decades. His songs have become Australian classics – like The Band Played Waltzing Matilda or No Man's Land. And as a very special treat – you'll hear the world premiere of his latest song … finished on the way to this event. A [Heartland Conversation] (https://www.bmff.org.au/heartlands-conversations) presented at the Blue Mountains Music Festival. March 17, 2024 Original broadcast on April 15, 2024 Speakers Eric BogleScottish-born Australian folk singer-songwriter [Gregg Borschmann] (https://www.talkingcountry.com.au/about)  (host)Writer, radio producer and oral historian for the National Library of Australia ... Read more

19 Dec 2024

54 MINS

54:05

19 Dec 2024

#229

The debate over shark nets: killers or life savers? With Natasha Mitchell and guests

They use of shark nets to protect us from sharks is highly controversial.  Do they work, what do they do to marine life, are there alternatives, and why are sharks so political? This is an issue that ignites passions. Join Big Ideas' host Natasha Mitchell and guests at the  [2024 Ocean Lovers Festival ] (https://www.oceanloversfestival.com/) for a robust interrogation of the harms and benefits​​. Original broadcast April 17, 2024. Speakers [Lawrence Chlebeck ] (https://hsi.org.au/our-staff/) Marine biologist and campaigner [Humane Society International  ] (https://www.hsi.org/) [Dr Chris Pepin-Neff ] (https://www.sydney.edu.au/arts/about/our-people/academic-staff/chris-pepin-neff.html) Senior Lecturer in Public Policy, University of Sydney Author, [Flaws: Shark Bites and Emotional Public Policymaking ] (https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-030-10976-9) (2019)  Steven Pearce Chief Executive Officer, [Surf Life Saving NSW  ] (https://www.surflifesaving.com.au/)  Hannah TaitCEO, [ Action for Dolphins] (https://www.afd.org.au/) Further information:  [Australian UAV Service ] (https://www.surflifesaving.com.au/about-us/australian-uav-service/)   [NSW Shark meshing program ] (https://www.sharksmart.nsw.gov.au/shark-nets) [NSW Shark Management Strategy and Shark Program Review (2022) ] (https://www.sharksmart.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/1398267/Cardno-Report.PDF) [Rebranding Sharks project ] (https://saveourseas.com/project/rebranding-sharks/) [Australian Shark Incident Database] (https://taronga.org.au/conservation-and-science/australian-shark-incident-database ) [Yearly Worldwide “Shark Attack Summary” (Florida Museum) ] (https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/shark-attacks/yearly-worldwide-summary/) [Shark nets information (Action for Dolphins) ] (https://www.afd.org.au/shark-nets/) ... Read more

18 Dec 2024

54 MINS

54:48

18 Dec 2024

#228

Meet the mothers of Australia's women's refuge movement

At a time when family violence wasn't even recognised by the law, a group of women broke into two vacant houses in Sydney and claimed squatters' rights, changing lives and attitudes to family violence forever. This event was recorded at the [Elsie Conference] (https://www.elsieconference.com.au/program) on 15 March 2024. Original Big Ideas broadcast on 6 May 2024. Speakers [Professor Di Otto] (https://www.elsieconference.com.au/speakers?pgid=loi0dt9x-professor-dianne-otto_25) Halfway House Victoria [Bobbie Townsend] (https://www.elsieconference.com.au/speakers?pgid=loi0dt9x-bobbie-townsend_23) Former resident and worker, Elsie Women's Refuge [Vivien Johnson] (https://www.elsieconference.com.au/speakers?pgid=loi0dt9x-vivien-johnson_15) Founding member of Marrickville Women's Refuge Collective [Ludo McFerrin (host)] (https://www.elsieconference.com.au/speakers?pgid=loi0dt9x-ludo-mcferran-am_13) Elsie Women's Refuge ... Read more

17 Dec 2024

53 MINS

53:35

17 Dec 2024

#227

Is Australia overrun by feral animals? With Gardening Australia's Costa Georgiadis

Australia's unique biodiversity, a product of almost 50 million years of glorious evolutionary isolation, is in freefall. The threats are not just the rabbits, the cane toads, the cats and foxes – the common culprits. Let's not forget the small but impactful smooth newt or the fierce red fire ants, and the many invasive weeds. Twenty new weeds will establish in the wild in Australia this year – and every year to come … unless things change. But is it possible to stop this ongoing invasion? How do we go about it? [Heartlands Conversations] (https://www.bmff.org.au/heartlands-conversations)  was presented as part of the Blue Mountain Music Festival Original broadcast on May 16, 2024 Speakers [Costa Georgiadis] (https://costasworld.com.au/) Host of ABC TVs Gardening Australia and landscape architect [Andrew Cox] (https://invasives.org.au/our-team/andrew-cox-ceo/) CEO of the Invasive Species Council [Gregg Borschmann] (https://www.talkingcountry.com.au/about) (host)Writer, radio producer and oral historian for the National Library of Australia ... Read more

16 Dec 2024

53 MINS

53:56

16 Dec 2024

#226

Benjamin Law’s butt, and the power and politics of portraiture

From Vincent Namatjira's painting of Gina Rinehart, to Jonathan Yeo's take on King Charles, what do portraits say about those they represent, those who create them, and the broader context of the time? The Andrew Sayers Memorial Lecture was recorded at the [ National Portrait Gallery ] (https://portrait.gov.au/) on 31 July 2024. [The National Gallery of Australia's annual lecture with Lindy Lee ] (https://nga.gov.au/events/2024-annual-lecture-lindy-lee/) was recorded on 24 October 2024. Speakers [Benjamin Law] (https://benjamin-law.com/) Writer, broadcaster and cultural commentator [Sarah Oakes] (https://www.portrait.gov.au/content/executive/) (host) Director, External Relations, National Portrait Gallery [Lindy Lee] (https://www.lindylee.net/) Artist Further information [Watch LIndy Lee's full lecture "A Life of Spirit" here] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NTAgo20_P4) Catch Lindy Lee at the NGA for [Ouroboros] (https://nga.gov.au/art-artists/sculpture-garden/lindylee-ouroboros/) (permanent) and [her retrospective] (https://nga.gov.au/exhibitions/lindylee/) until 1 June 2025. [Read more about Jordan Richardson's Venus here] (https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/prizes/archibald/2022/30448/) ... Read more

12 Dec 2024

54 MINS

54:05

12 Dec 2024

#225

The surfer and circumnavigator — the gobsmacking feats of Pauline Menczer and Bonnie Hancock

A freckle-faced kid from Bondi, Pauline Menczer fought the entrenched sexism of the pro-surfing scene to became women's world surfing champion and pave the way...er, waves..for girl grommets today. But all the while she was also fighting another battle inside her own body’s cells. Ironwoman and surf lifesaving champion Bonnie Hancock became the fastest and youngest person, and the first Australian woman, to circumnavigate Australia on a small surf ski, solo. What possessed her to paddle 12,700 kilometres through crocodile and shark-populated waters, mega-waves, and worse? Pauline and Bonnie join Big Ideas' host Natasha Mitchell for a conversation that might inspire you to chase your dreams, big or small. This event was organised and hosted by the [Queenscliffe Literary Festival] (https://www.queenscliffeliteraryfestival.com.au/) .  Speakers [Pauline Menczer] (https://www.instagram.com/naughty_pauls/?hl=en) Women's world surfing champion Author, Surf Like a Woman (2024) [Bonnie Hancock] (https://www.bonniehancock.com/) Athelete, professional Ironwoman, dieticianAuthor, The Girl Who Touched the Stars (2024)Ambassador, [Gotcha4Life Foundation] (https://www.gotcha4life.org/) Further information [Girls Can't Surf ] (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9005244/) documentary Australian Surfing Awards [Surfing Hall of Fame ] (https://australiansurfingawards.com/halloffame/) ... Read more

11 Dec 2024

54 MINS

54:05

11 Dec 2024

#224

President Petr Pavel – on why the war in Ukraine is a fight for geopolitical stability worldwide

Do you want to live in Putin’s vision of a world in which ‘the big boys’ dominate …. or in one in which smaller nations have a voice? If it’s the latter, so the President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel, you need to support Ukraine. This war isn’t just about the borders in Ukraine or security in Europe, it affects the world and our principles of sovereignty, integrity, freedom, and the right of smaller nations to decide their own future. Hear from one of Europe’s foremost voices on global security on the implications of the war in Ukraine for the world. The [2024 Lowy Lecture] (https://resources.lowyinstitute.org/docs/lowy-institute-event-2024-lowy-lecture) was presented by the [Lowy Institute] (https://www.lowyinstitute.org/) . November 26, 2024 Speakers [Petr Pavel] (https://www.hrad.cz/en/president-of-the-cr/current-president-of-the-cr/curriculum-vitae) President of the Czech Republic [Dr Michael Fullilove] (https://www.lowyinstitute.org/michael-fullilove) Executive Director of the Lowy Institute Further information [Transcript] (https://resources.lowyinstitute.org/docs/lowy-institute-event-2024-lowy-lecture?msdynttrid=sYshckzJNiPEchOBdqheYlSzjdyYKOzeB-38o681u04#Theatre) of the 2024 Lowy Lecture as delivered, might vary from the audio ... Read more

10 Dec 2024

53 MINS

53:54

10 Dec 2024

#223

Memory, refugees and the Vietnam War — with Pulitzer Prize winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen

Born a refugee of the Vietnam War, and now a Pulitzer Prize winning American author, Viet Thanh Nguyen unpacks the refugee experience, and the politics and the personal weight of remembering, and forgetting. This event was recorded at the [Melbourne Writers Festival on 11 May 2024] (https://mwf.com.au/program/viet-thanh-nguyen-a-man-of-two-faces) . Speakers [Viet Thanh Nguyen] (https://vietnguyen.info/) Author, [A man of two faces,] (https://www.hachette.com.au/viet-thanh-nguyen/a-man-of-two-faces-shortlisted-for-the-baillie-gifford-prize-for-non-fiction-2024) The Sympathizer, Simone (children's book) and more [Andre Dao ] (https://www.andredao.com/) (host) Author, [Anam] (https://www.penguin.com.au/books/anam-winner-of-the-2024-pms-literary-award-and-shortlisted-for-the-2024-miles-franklin-9781761046940) (winner of the [2024 Prime Minister's Literary Award for Fiction] (https://creative.gov.au/advocacy-and-research/events/prime-ministers-literary-awards/) )Postdoctoral Research Fellow, [Melbourne Law School, University of Melbourne] (https://about.unimelb.edu.au/news-resources/awards-and-achievements/awards-and-prizes/dr-andre-dao-awarded-prime-ministers-literary-award-for-fiction#:~:text=Postdoctoral%20Research%20Fellow%20at%20the,family%2C%20false%20imprisonment%20and%20migration.) Co-founder, [Behind the Wire oral history project ] (https://behindthewire.org.au/) (and later the award-winning Messenger podcast) ... Read more

09 Dec 2024

56 MINS

56:09

09 Dec 2024

#222

Who gets to shape the story? Reporting on the conflict in the Middle East — with The Guardian’s Nour...

There's been a move by Australian newsrooms to foster and champion the diversity of their staff. But when it comes to covering the conflict between Israelis & Palestinians, and the war in Gaza, does this push for diversity only run skin deep? Who gets to shape the story?  The [2024 AN Smith Memorial Lecture ] (https://events.unimelb.edu.au/culture-and-communication/event/41981-a-reflection-on-palestine-australian-media-and-who) was recorded at the University of Melbourne's Centre for Advancing Journalism on 26 November 2024. Speakers [Nour Haydar] (https://www.theguardian.com/profile/nour-haydar) Senior Audio producer and co-host, Full Story podcast, Guardian Australia [Andrew Dodd (host)] (https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/profile/340366-andrew-dodd) Director, Centre for Advancing Journalism, University of Melbourne Further information [View the full video recording here] (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdYFeIQXVQA__;!!FvZmfVE!FAf8Jul-KmeBgDSFcVI9n5BYuUNsWY2Aad0nCbywsgD6I0GP1RhdVdyTGNfnJi_fINRncLFcoOQGOj9dPBAHr6AOcwPmAkUu1mk3qXo$) [About the AN Smith Lecture in Journalism - University of Melbourne] (https://arts.unimelb.edu.au/centre-for-advancing-journalism/about/a-n-smith-lecture-in-journalism) ... Read more

05 Dec 2024

59 MINS

59:18

05 Dec 2024

#221

50 years after Cyclone Tracy — powerful memories of horror and hope

Don't miss these previously unheard and powerful stories of ordinary people surviving extraordinary circumstances.  Cyclone Tracy destroyed 80 percent of Darwin and killed 66 people.  It's impact was harrowing. Beyond the despair are also memories of small blessings and surprising impacts long after that fateful Christmas of 1974. Presented by the [Northern Territory Writers Festival] (https://www.ntwriters.com.au/nt-writers-festival/) Speakers Richard Creswick Author and former ABC journalist [Derek Pugh] (http://www.derekpugh.com.au/) Historian and author [Jared Archibald] (https://www.magnt.net.au/) Curator of Territory History at the Museum and Art Gallery Northern Territory  [Kylie Stevenson] (https://www.kyliestevenson.net/) (host)Award-winning journalist and audio producer Further information Website with [memories of Cyclone Tracy] (https://cyclonetracy.au/) YouTube - [When Will the Birds Return] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5b4fDiSoTU) ... Read more

04 Dec 2024

52 MINS

52:45

04 Dec 2024