Uncommon Sense: Recent Episodes
RRR - Triple R
A weekly conversation about politics and current events, international affairs, history, art, books, and the natural world, to illuminate the issues faced by society and explore them in new ways – presented by Amy Mullins.
The intro and outro theme is Soft Illusion and was generously provided by Andras. https://andras.bandcamp.com/track/soft-illusion
Amy Mullins returns to the airwaves. The Guardian Australia's Graham Readfearn delves into the latest global environment news, including a mass coral bleaching event happening across the Americas, UNESCO's determination on the health of the Great Barrier Reef, Antarctic sea ice at historic lows, and more. The NGV’s Cathy Leahy, Senior Curator of Prints & Drawings and Conservator of Paintings Caitlin Breare join Amy to discuss their exhibition, Rembrandt: True to Life, featuring the work of 17th century Dutch master, Rembrandt van Rijn. They give us insights into Rembrandt's fascinating life, his print-making, oil paintings, and drawing practice, as well as the pioneering materials and techniques he used. We discuss several of Rembrandt''s works in the exhibition and what they tell us about him. With more than 100 etchings from the NGV Collection, alongside important paintings and loans from across the world, Rembrandt: True to Life is the most comprehensive exhibition of Rembrandt’s work to be held in Australia in 25 years. Open until 10 September at the NGV International. The NGV is hosting a special event on September 9, Revealing Rembrandt, with the NGV's paper, frames, and paintings conservators as they share their insights into researching, conserving and caring for works by Rembrandt. Comedian and architecture enthusiast Tim 'Rosso' Ross talks about his love of modernist architecture and his upcoming Melbourne show, Designing a Legacy Live, inspired by his acclaimed ABC TV show (on iView) and which features an in-conversation with Australian design icon Mary Featherston.
The NGV’s Cathy Leahy, Senior Curator of Prints & Drawings and Conservator of Paintings Caitlin Breare join Amy to discuss the exhibition, Rembrandt: True to Life, featuring the work of 17th century Dutch master, Rembrandt van Rijn. They give us insights into Rembrandt's fascinating life, his print-making, oil paintings, and drawing practice, as well as the pioneering materials and techniques he used. We discuss several of Rembrandt''s works in the exhibition and what they tell us about him. With more than 100 etchings from the NGV Collection, alongside important paintings and loans from across the world, Rembrandt: True to Life is the most comprehensive exhibition of Rembrandt’s work to be held in Australia in 25 years. Open until 10 September at the NGV International. The NGV is hosting a special event on September 9, Revealing Rembrandt, with the NGV's paper, frames, and paintings conservators as they share their insights into researching, conserving and caring for works by Rembrandt.
Writer, broadcaster, and musician, Sian Prior joins Amy to discuss her book, Childless, A Story of Freedom and Longing. It's about Sian's seven-year-long quest to become a mother, and how that failure affected every part of her emotional life. Sian explores how society could better support those who are childless not by choice, which has become an issue for a rising number of Australians.
Content Warning: Please note that the interview with Sian Prior talks about miscarriage, IVF treatments, and the struggle to become a mother and a parent. This may be distressing for some listeners.
Dr Kevin Bonham, psephologist, polling analyst, and political commentator, drops by to discuss the Victorian state election polling figures thus far, the problem with Group Voting Tickets and preference harvesting, and why we should vote below the line in the Upper House. Writer, broadcaster, and musician, Sian Prior joins Amy to discuss her book, Childless, A Story of Freedom and Longing. It's about Sian's seven-year-long quest to become a mother, and how that failure affected every part of her emotional life. Sian explores how society could better support those who are childless not by choice, which has become an issue for a rising number of Australians. Dr Holly Jones-Amin, Senior Conservator at Grimwade Conservation Services, The University of Melbourne talks about the intricacies of the award-winning conservation project to conserving Loong 龍, the oldest intact imperial processional dragon in the world. Loong is a 40m-long, five-clawed imperial dragon owned by the Bendigo Chinese Association and on permanent display at the Golden Dragon Museum, Bendigo 金龍博物館. Holly also discusses Loong's cultural and historical significance to Chinese-Australians and the Bendigo community. Loong’s earliest recorded public appearance was the Bendigo Easter Procession of 1892. Historically he was also referred to by the Chinese community as Gum Loong 金龙 (Golden Dragon) and Moo Loong 舞龍 (Dancing Dragon).
Content Warning: Please note that the interview with Sian Prior talks about miscarriage, IVF treatments, and the struggle to become a mother and a parent. This may be distressing for some listeners.
Historian Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT's EU Centre of Excellence stops by to talk about the latest in US politics, including the mid-term election results and the summit season currently underway and attended by world leaders. Acclaimed novelist, poet, and musician Gregory Day joins Amy to speak in-depth about his latest book, Words Are Eagles: Selected Writings on the Nature and Language of Place. Gregory's book is a collection of essays on the wonders of the natural world and the ways that Wadawurrung language is intertwined with place. He is inspired by the area he lives in – Mangowak (Aireys Inlet) on Wadawurrung Country. Russia and international security expert Dr Matthew Sussex gives us clarity on what is happening in Russia's war against Ukraine, the worldview of President Putin, the effect of Russia's withdrawal from Kherson on the war strategy of both sides, plus their use of munitions, drones, and more. Matthew is an Associate Professor at the Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University and Senior Fellow at the Centre for Defence Research, Australian Defence College.
Russia and international security expert Dr Matthew Sussex gives us clarity on what is happening in Russia's war against Ukraine, the "worldview" of President Putin, the effect of Russia's withdrawal from Kherson on the war strategy of both sides, plus their use of munitions, drones, and more. Matthew is an Associate Professor at the Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University and Senior Fellow at the Centre for Defence Research, Australian Defence College.
Journalist and filmmaker Karl Malakunas speaks in-depth about the volunteer environmental defenders risking their lives on the island of Palawan (Philippines) to save some of the most biodiverse forests and oceans in the world from illegal logging and fishing. The story of the Palawan NGO Network Inc's (PNNI) brave members and supporters is featured in Karl's award-winning enviro-thriller documentary, Delikado. Karl is also Asia-Pacific Deputy Editor-In-Chief for Agence France-Presse.
For screenings information and more: www.delikadofilm.com Watch the film trailer: https://vimeo.com/708871732
Professor Chris Wallace from the Faculty of Business, Government, and Law at the University of Canberra, talks about the latest in federal politics, including the Robodebt Royal Commission, Labor's IR Bill, the October budget, and much more. Journalist and filmmaker Karl Malakunas speaks in-depth about the volunteer environmental defenders risking their lives on the island of Palawan (Philippines) to save some of the most biodiverse forests and oceans in the world from illegal logging and fishing. The story of the Palawan NGO Network Inc's (PNNI) brave members and supporters is featured in Karl's award-winning enviro-thriller documentary, Delikado. Karl is also Asia-Pacific Deputy Editor-In-Chief for Agence France-Presse. Jordan Crook, Nature Conservation Campaigner, (Forests, Woodlands & Grasslands) at the Victorian National Parks Association, evaluates the Victorian Government's record on environmental policy and issues ahead of the election and updates us on the latest campaigning wins for native forests.
For Delikado film screenings information and more: www.delikadofilm.com Watch the film trailer: https://vimeo.com/708871732
Amy is joined by Thai cave rescue diver, retired veterinary surgeon, and 2019 Australian of the Year Craig Challen. Craig speaks of his fascinating experiences as a technical cave diver setting records and travelling around the world diving with his mate Dr Richard 'Harry' Harris. Craig also shares how their involvement in the famous Tham Luang cave rescue in northern Thailand has extended the cave diving community's ability to conduct rescues. Craig outlines the ways Ancient Stoic philosophy has influenced his life and much more.
Craig was speaking at the Stoicon-X Melbourne Conference. See his keynote address.
Barkandji researcher and storyteller Zena Cumpston talks about indigenous plant use and the deep cultural significance of plants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Zena also speaks in-depth about the ongoing effects of colonisation in institutions like universities and the ways in which Aboriginal knowledge has been treated as an "add-on" to the scientific study of plants and the management of Country. She outlines how and why this needs to change. Zena's new book, co-authored with Lesley Head and Michael Shawn-Fletcher, is called Plants: Past, Present and Future. Amy is joined by Thai cave rescue diver, retired veterinary surgeon, and 2019 Australian of the Year Craig Challen. Craig speaks of his fascinating experiences as a technical cave diver setting records and travelling around the world diving with his mate Dr Richard 'Harry' Harris. Craig also shares how their involvement in the famous Tham Luang cave rescue in northern Thailand has extended the cave diving community's ability to conduct rescues. Craig outlines the ways Ancient Stoic philosophy has influenced his life and much more. Plus, Rachel Withers, Contributing Editor of The Monthly and The Politics columnist previews the October Budget and discusses the latest in federal politics.
Zena's other discussed projects include, Emu Sky, the Indigenous Plant Use booklet (free PDF), and The 2021 State of the Environment Report (co-author of the Indigenous, Heritage, and Urban chapters).
Craig Challen was speaking at the Stoicon-X Melbourne Conference. See his keynote address.
Award-winning climate scientist and writer Dr Joëlle Gergis, delves into her new book, Humanity's Moment: A Climate Scientist's Case for Hope. Joëlle is an Australian Lead Author of the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Sixth Assessment Report and an advisor to the Climate Council.
Cinematic legend and icon Jean-Luc Godard died at age 91 recently, so it was apt that Dr Andrew McGregor returned to delve deeply into the life and legacy of the revolutionary auteur.
Andrew and Amy discuss the nouvelle vague movement that originated in the late 1950s into the 1960s in France and Godard's prominent place within it. They explore the innovative film-making techniques and artistic genius that distinguished Godard's work from others and transformed cinema forever. They also highlight and discuss a range of his most loved films.
Amy and Andrew share their top 5 favourite Godard films for listeners to look into at their own pace or interest!
Amy: Opération béton (1958), Une femme est une femme (1961), Vivre sa vie (1962), Alphaville (1965), Masculin Féminin (1966).
Andrew: À Bout de Souffle (1960), Le Mépris (1963), Pierrot le fou (1965), Deux ou trois choses que je sais d'elle (2 or 3 Things I Know About Her) (1967), Histoire(s) du cinéma (1988).
Dr Andrew McGregor is Senior Lecturer in French Studies at the School of Languages and Linguistics, The University of Melbourne.
ACMI in Melbourne is showing six Godard films as part of their Goodbye to Godard program from 22 September to 16 October 2022.
To view Godard's films from home, they can be found at your local library, university library, Picture Search Video & Vinyl in Richmond, on Kanopy, Apple Movies and Google Movies, as well as distributed by Madman Entertainment and Umbrella Entertainment.
In the original interview that aired, we heard some of the iconic music from Godard's films, including 'La Ville Inhumaine' from Alphaville – Paul Misraki, and 'La Mort' from À Bout de Souffle – Martial Solal.
British musician and environmental activist Nick Mulvey joins Amy for a special in-depth conversation about his latest album, New Mythology. Nick explains how he's "always trying to explore the planetary through the personal" with his music. From his early years as a founding member of Portico Quartet to his solo career, Nick shares the many spiritual, cultural, musical, and environmental influences on his new work, including ancient Celtic cultures, American buddhist Joanna Macy, and the revered late Vietnamese buddhist monk Thích Nhất Hạnh.
Mulvey shares his song-writing process and some of the fascinating stories behind the tracks on his album including, Shores of Mona, Causes, The Gift, Star Nation, and Begin Again.
To listen to the Nick Mulvey interview with music from his album New Mythology included, listen to the OnDemand stream here.
Emma Cutting, founder of The Heart Gardening Project discusses all things street gardening and how you can get involved. She also chats about their big community-led project, the Melbourne Pollinator Corridor – an 8km wildlife corridor linking the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne to Westgate Park. The gardens have been designed for native pollinating insects and the plans being the result of input from over 20 specialists and scientists! British musician and environmental activist Nick Mulvey joins Amy for a special in-depth conversation about his latest album, New Mythology. Nick explains how he's "always trying to explore the planetary through the personal" with his music. From his early years as a founding member of Portico Quartet to his solo career, Nick shares the many spiritual, cultural, musical, and environmental influences on his new work, including ancient Celtic cultures, American buddhist Joanna Macy, and the revered late Vietnamese buddhist monk Thích Nhất Hạnh. Mulvey shares his song-writing process and some of the fascinating stories behind the tracks on his album including, Shores of Mona, Causes, The Gift, Star Nation, and Begin Again. Nick Feik, former Editor of The Monthly, delves into the latest in federal politics with an incisive analysis of all the developments and questions arising from former Prime Minister Scott Morrison's ministerial power grab, including the complicity of those who knew, the role of the Governor-General, and much more.
To listen to the Nick Mulvey interview with music from his album New Mythology included, listen to the OnDemand stream here.
Nick Feik, former Editor of The Monthly, delves into the latest in federal politics with an incisive analysis of all the developments and questions arising from former Prime Minister Scott Morrison's ministerial power grab, including the complicity of those who knew, the role of the Governor-General, and much more.
Best-selling British author Johann Hari chats in-depth with Amy live on Uncommon Sense for part two of their conversation on his book, Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention. Johann discusses the crisis of attention in both children and adults, how 'big tech' saps our ability to focus, as well as the insidious environmental factors that affect our attention, like pollution and chemicals. Most importantly, Johann explains what we can do about it, individually and collectively.
Listen to part one of our conversation about Stolen Focus on the podcast here. Note: Either part can be heard in isolation or in conjunction.
Professor Chris Wallace discusses the latest in federal politics, including the recent revelations that former Prime Minister Scott Morrison formally appointed himself to five Ministerial roles in secret. Chris delves into the detail of what happened and the historical and contemporary significance of this unprecedented action by an Australian Prime Minister. She also shares what this means for democracy and whether a Royal Commission or inquiry is needed. Chris is a Professor at the 50/50 By 2030 Foundation at the University of Canberra, a former member of the Canberra Press Gallery and author of 'How To Win An Election.'
Acclaimed historian Henry Reynolds discusses his award-winning book, Forgotten War – on the frontier wars between First Nations people and white colonists. Frontier violence was commonplace in Australia during the nineteenth century, but can it be characterised as a war? Henry Reynolds explains. Originally published in 2014, it has been re-released by NewSouth Publishing.
Fiona Patten MP, Reason Party Leader and representative for the Northern Metropolitan Region in the upper house of Victoria's state parliament, joins Amy to discuss state politics and policy, as well as the upcoming state election. Fiona explains her bill which seeks to ensure that all publicly funded hospitals provide abortion services, contraception, and voluntary-assisted dying. She also discusses a widely-criticised law that criminalises logging protesters. And Fiona addresses concerns around a government bill that seeks to gather every Victorian's health records into a centralised database, with NO opt-out clause. Acclaimed historian Henry Reynolds discusses his award-winning book, Forgotten War – on the frontier wars between First Nations people and white colonists. Frontier violence was commonplace in Australia during the 19th century, but can it be characterised as a war? Henry Reynolds explains. Plus Guardian Australia's environment reporter Graham Readfearn shares the latest news on the Great Barrier Reef and federal environmental policy. With coral cover the highest reported in 36 years in some areas, what does this really mean for the long-term recovery of the reef?
Rachel Withers, Contributing Editor to the Monthly and The Politics columnist joins Amy to reflect on the first week of the 47th Parliament of Australia, including the draft referendum question on a Voice to Parliament, Anthony Albanese's Garma speech, the politics of pandemic management, rising inflation and more. Nic Maclellan, Pacific affairs correspondent for Inside Story, speaks about his trip to the Pacific Islands Forum in Fiji. With many Micronesian leaders absent and the withdrawal of Kiribati from the forum, there were some tensions but also successes. Nic reports on all of the developments, including the important "Suva Agreement" and "2050 Strategy for a Blue Pacific Continent." Philosopher Dr Matthew Sharpe from Deakin University discusses the rise of the far right in Europe and the recent controversial speech made by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on 'racial mixing,' where he claimed Hungarians should only 'mix' with other Europeans. Orbán's speech has been compared by some to Nazi ideology and denounced widely. With Orbán set to speak at the U.S. CPAC conference – the largest gathering of conservatives in the world – are his extreme political views influencing politics beyond Hungary?
Epidemiologist Adrian Esterman joins Amy to discuss the winter COVID-19 wave of cases we are currently experiencing. With Australia's COVID cases and death rates the third highest in the world per capita in the past week, there are demands for basic public health measures to be reintroduced. Adrian is Professor of Biostatistics and Epidemiology at the University of SA. Andrew Walter, Professor of International Relations at the University of Melbourne dropped by to talk about the latest in UK politics, including the demise of UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the final round of the Tory leadership contest between Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss. Andrew also discusses some of the other leadership contenders who have since left the field but are making their mark on the Tory party, including Kemi Badenoch. Dr Kylie Soanes, conservation biologist at the University of Melbourne delves into the State of the Environment Report, finally released by the federal government. With the report declaring that urban environments are in the best condition – rated as "good and neutral" – Kylie discusses whether this assessment reflects the reality of nature in our cities and urban ecologies. In fact, Australia’s cities and towns are home to more than 46% of threatened species – including some plants and animals that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Kylie shares what we can do to save our most at risk species living in cities and urban environments – from our backyards and our balconies.
Professor Andrew Walter talks about the latest in UK politics, including the demise of UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the final round of the Tory leadership contest between Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss. Andrew also discusses some of the other leadership contenders who have since left the field but are making their mark on the Tory party, including Kemi Badenoch. Andrew Walter is a Professor of International Relations at the University of Melbourne, and a 2021 Fulbright Scholar.
Dr Kylie Soanes, conservation biologist at the University of Melbourne delves into the State of the Environment Report, finally released by the federal government. With the report declaring that urban environments are in the best condition – rated as "good and neutral" – Kylie discusses whether this assessment reflects the reality of nature in our cities and urban ecologies. In fact, Australia’s cities and towns are home to more than 46% of threatened species – including some plants and animals that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Kylie shares what we can do to save our most at risk species living in cities and urban environments – from our backyards and our balconies.
British biologist and bumblebee expert Professor Dave Goulson joins Amy to talk about his latest book, Silent Earth: Averting the Insect Apocalypse. Dave talks about how insects have been misunderstood, the vital contributions they make to our ecosystems and lives. He also explains the concerning research detailing insect decline and the reasons behind it. We can and must prevent an insect apocalypse. Dave Goulson studied biology at Oxford University and is Professor of Biology at the University of Sussex.
Amy is joined by American biologist Professor David George Haskell who talks about his new book on the evolution of sound and the beauty of listening in nature. David also shares how humans are now silencing and smothering many of the natural sounds of the living Earth. It's a crisis that is easily solvable with political will. David G. Haskell is a professor of biology and environmental studies at Sewanee: the University of the South. His latest book is called, Sounds Wild and Broken: Sonic Marvels, Evolution's Creativity and the Crisis of Sensory Extinction.
Victorian cultural leader, philanthropist, and author Carrillo Gantner AC joins Amy for an in-depth conversation about his new book, Dismal Diplomacy, Disposable Sovereignty: Our Problem With China and America (out via Monash University Publishing). Carrillo examines the recent history of Australia's poor diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China and explains what the new Labor federal government must do to repair the relationship.
Carrillo reflects on his time as Counsellor (cultural) at the Australian Embassy in Beijing in 1985-87, what he learned about Chinese culture, language, history, and politics, and how this can inform respectful and productive diplomacy.
He also discusses Australia's gradual relinquishment of sovereignty over time, with recent examples including the AUKUS alliance with the United States and United Kindom, and the controversial nuclear submarine deal.
Dr Richard Denniss, chief economist at The Australia Institute joins Amy for the final instalment of Uncommon Sense's federal election policy series – this time, on the economy. Richard debunks all the election econobabble on wages growth, productivity, inflation, and much more. He explains and evaluates the economic policies of the major and minor parties at this federal election, including on housing affordability, superannuation, taxation, economic management, and wages growth. Who's talking a load of codswallop and who is on the money? Award-winning author and academic Dr Elizabeth Tynan speaks about her new book, The Secret of Emu Field: Britain’s forgotten atomic tests in Australia. Elizabeth tells us what happened at Emu Field, South Australia in October 1953. She talks of a terrifying black mist that spread across the land after the first atomic bomb detonation called Totem I. It brought death and sickness to Aboriginal people in its path. Elizabeth describes some of the secrecy that still exists today around the testing activities. She tells us about her visit to Emu Field and the consequences of the testing. Elizabeth is associate professor in the Graduate Research School at James Cook University, Townsville. Catherine Watson, member of the Save Western Port Woodlands group, dials in to discuss the last strip of significant woodland left in Bass Coast Shire – a rare coastal forest near Lang Lang and Grantville, which is under threat from a surge in sand mining. After a long fought battle, Victoria's Planning Minister Richard Wynne has just made the controversial decision to approve a significant expansion of the Grantville sand mine despite more than 70 local objections. Catherine explains why the Western Port Woodlands is so ecologically special and why it deserves our urgent protection. Visit their website at www.savewesternportwoodlands.org
Former judge Stephen Charles AO QC and Dr Catherine Williams discuss what a robust and effective federal integrity commission looks like, as well as other accountability bodies and measures needed to protect our democracy from corruption. These include reforms to our political donations system, among many others. Their new book is called, Keeping Them Honest: The Case for a Genuine National Integrity Commission and Other Vital Democratic Reforms. Stephen Charles QC is a former Judge of Appeal in the Supreme Court of Victoria and Dr Catherine Williams is research director of the Centre for Public Integrity.
Richie Merzian, Director of the Climate and Energy Program at The Australia Institute joins Amy for part 3 of the Uncommon Sense election policy series – climate change. Richie looks at Australia's current climate targets and tells us what targets and policies are needed to keep global temperature increases to 1.5 degrees celsius or at the very worst, 2 degrees celsius. He also examines and evaluates what Labor, the Coalition, the Greens, and the independents are proposing to do about climate change and energy policy at this federal election. Former judge Stephen Charles AO QC and Dr Catherine Williams discuss what a robust and effective federal integrity commission looks like, as well as other accountability bodies and measures needed to protect our democracy from corruption. These include reforms to our political donations system, among many others. Their new book is called, Keeping Them Honest: The Case for a Genuine National Integrity Commission and Other Vital Democratic Reforms. Stephen Charles QC is a former Judge of Appeal in the Supreme Court of Victoria and Dr Catherine Williams is research director of the Centre for Public Integrity. Gabriel Shipton, film producer and brother of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, speaks about his film ITHAKA, which follows Assange's father John Shipton in the fight to free Julian. Gabriel discusses the chilling effect America’s efforts to prosecute Julian are having on freedom of press and whistleblowers across the world, and the disturbing tactics deployed to silence him. Julian is currently being held in Belmarsh Prison, London. A court has formally approved the extradition of Julian Assange to the United States on espionage charges. His extradition will ultimately be a decision for UK home secretary, Priti Patel.
Luke Hilakari, Secretary of the Victorian Trades Hall Council tells us the full story behind the fight to save the John Curtin Hotel. A green ban has just been announced in the effort to protect the socially and culturally significant John Curtin Hotel in Carlton. Union workers will now refuse to work on any redevelopment or demolition of the Curtin Hotel, after it was sold to an international buyer.
Nic Maclellan, Pacific affairs correspondent for Inside Story, talks about Australia's foreign policy, including its relationships with Pacific island nations, China, the U.S. and France. Nic also explains the positions and recent policies of the major and minor parties. This is the second instalment of Uncommon Sense's federal election policy series. Journalist and author Louisa Lim discusses her new book, Indelible City: Dispossession and Defiance in Hong Kong. Among many things, Louisa explores the 2019 protest movement in Hong Kong and the rising number of speech crime convictions under the national security law. She also discusses key historical moments and seeks to insert Hong Kongers back into their social and political history. Luke Hilakari, Secretary of the Victorian Trades Hall Council tells us the full story behind the fight to save the John Curtin Hotel. A green ban has been announced in the effort to protect the socially and culturally significant John Curtin Hotel in Carlton. Union workers will now refuse to work on any redevelopment or demolition of the Curtin Hotel, after it was sold to an international buyer.
Journalist and author Louisa Lim discusses her new book, Indelible City: Dispossession and Defiance in Hong Kong. Among many things, Louisa explores the 2019 protest movement in Hong Kong and the rising number of speech crime convictions under the harsh national security law. She also unearths the stories behind key historical moments and seeks to insert Hong Kongers back into their social and political history.
Veteran broadcaster and author Jon Faine joins Amy to discuss his fascinating new book, Apollo & Thelma: A True Tall Tale. Jon tells the astonishing true story of the world's strongest man Paul Anderson, also known as ‘The Mighty Apollo,' and his sister Thelma, a pioneering publican of the ‘Wanda Inn’ at Top Springs in the NT. As Jon was Apollo's lawyer, he reckons with his own story too. This book is many things – a memoir, a true tale, and a reflection on Australia's history and the fight for indigenous rights.
Luke Henriques-Gomes, Guardian Australia's social affairs and inequality editor, joins Amy for the first instalment of a special federal election policy series examining key policy areas in-depth. Luke discusses the policies and track record of the major and minor parties in the areas of social policy, including the cashless debit card, JobSeeker, and the NDIS. Veteran broadcaster and author Jon Faine joins Amy to discuss his new book, Apollo & Thelma: A True Tall Tale. Jon tells the astonishing true story of legendary strongman Paul Anderson ‘The Mighty Apollo’ and his sister Thelma, the pioneering publican of the ‘Wanda Inn’ at Top Springs in the Northern Territory. As Jon was Apollo's lawyer, he reckons with his own story too. This book is a memoir, a true tale, and a reflection on Australia's history and the fight for indigenous rights. Rachel Denber, Deputy Director of the Europe and Central Asia Division at Human Rights Watch speaks about the atrocities and "apparent war crimes" being committed by the Russian military against Ukrainian civilians in Bucha, Ukraine.
Dr Chris Wallace discusses the media's role and performance in the federal election campaign and previews Labor's chances of winning. Chris is the author of, How To Win An Election, and is Associate Professor at the 50/50 By 2030 Foundation at the University of Canberra. Scottish paleobiologist Thomas Halliday joins Amy for an in-depth conversation about his debut book, Otherlands: A World in the Making. Thomas takes us on a journey into deep time and introduces us to the awe-inducing ecosystems, animals, plants, and places that existed – from Alaska during the Pleistocene (20,000 years ago) to Australia during the Ediacaran (550 million years ago). Plus, songwriter and comedian Andrew Hansen (The Chaser, CNNNNN, Stories From Oz) stops by to talk about the craft of comedy and his new stage show, Everyone Else Is Wrong, which he will perform at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Scottish paleobiologist Dr Thomas Halliday joins Amy for an in-depth conversation about his debut book, Otherlands: A World in the Making. Thomas takes us on a journey into deep time and introduces us to the awe-inducing ecosystems, animals, plants, and places that existed – from Alaska during the Pleistocene (20,000 years ago) to Australia during the Ediacaran (550 million years ago).
Thomas is an Honorary Research Fellow, Department of Earth Sciences, University of Birmingham. His PhD won the Linnean Society Medal for the best thesis in the biological sciences in the UK.
Professor Brendan Crabb AC, Director and CEO of the Burnet Institute, joins Amy to reflect on how the pandemic and SARS-CoV-2 virus has evolved. He addresses the myths and misinformation around what the virus is, how it is spread, and what we must all do to reduce transmission. Brendan also discusses the long-term health effects of COVID-19, including Long COVID, and much more. Professor Crabb is also President of both the Australian Global Health Alliance and the Pacific Friends of Global Health.
Professor Brendan Crabb AC, Director and CEO of the Burnet Institute, joins Amy to reflect on how the pandemic and SARS-CoV-2 virus has evolved. He addresses the myths and misinformation around what the virus is, how it is spread, and what we must all do to reduce transmission. Brendan also discusses the long-term health effects of COVID-19, including Long COVID, and much more. Writer and farmer Bruce Pascoe and historian Bill Gammage discuss their new book, Country: Future Fire, Future Farming. They explain how Aboriginal people were, and are, farmers and agriculturalists – and what we urgently need to learn from them, for the sake of our forests, climate, and ecologies. Bill and Bruce also explain how and why First Nations people need to benefit from sharing their knowledge. Rachel Withers, Contributing Editor of THE MONTHLY, discusses the start of the 2022 federal election campaign.
Award-winning investigative journalist and author Jess Hill unravels the complexities of domestic abuse and its insidious forms, like coercive control. These are issues Jess delves into in her podcast series, The Trap, where she speaks with victim survivors, perpetrators, police, and others. If this conversation brings up any concerns for you, please contact Lifeline 13 11 14, 1800 Respect (1800 737 732), or Safe Steps 1800 015 188.
John Keane, Professor of Politics at University of Sydney joined Amy to discuss his latest book, The Shortest History of Democracy. John explains the lesser known origins of democracy in Syria-Mesopotamia, its symbolism, and the three forms of democracy across history – assembly democracy, electoral democracy, and monitory democracy. He also reflects on present day Australia and assesses the state and functioning of our democracy.
John Keane, Professor of Politics at University of Sydney joined Amy to discuss his latest book, The Shortest History of Democracy. John explains the lesser known origins of democracy, its symbolism, and the three forms of democracy across history – assembly democracy, electoral democracy, and monitory democracy. He also reflects on present day Australia and assesses the state and functioning of our democracy. Award-winning author and journalist Jess Hill returns to speak about the reality of domestic abuse in Australia. Jess also explains the insidious nature of coercive control, why perpetrators do this to their intimate partners, and the red flags to look for. Her latest project is a podcast series called, The Trap. Rachel Withers Contributing Editor to THE MONTHLY and The Politics columnist talks about the latest in federal politics, including the federal budget and Labor’s budget reply.
Philosopher and ethicist Peter Singer (Princeton University) joins Amy for a special wide-ranging chat ahead of his appearance in Melbourne this week for 'An Evening With Peter Singer.' They discuss the philosophy of utilitarianism, Peter's conception of "effective altruism," moral questions raised by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as why we should care about the suffering of animals. New Zealand comedian and actor Chris Parker chats about his MICF show Gentle Man (31 March - 24 April). You might also know Chris from his hilarious Instagram/TikTok videos. Dr Juanita Fernando, Chair of the Australian Privacy Foundation’s Health Committee, discusses the Victorian Government's concerning plans to share every Victorian's patient data in a centralised health database with no way for individuals to opt-out. It will be utilised by public and denominational hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential care services, mental health, community health and ambulance services. Read the Health Legislation Amendment (Information Sharing) Bill 2021 here.
Philosopher and ethicist Peter Singer joins Amy for a special, wide-ranging chat ahead of his appearance in Melbourne this week. They discuss the philosophy of utilitarianism, Peter's conception of "effective altruism," moral questions raised by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as why we should care about the suffering of animals. Peter Singer is the Ira W. DeCamp Professor of Bioethics at Princeton University.
New Zealand comedian and actor Chris Parker joins Amy for a chat about his comedy show Gentle Man (Melbourne: 31 March - 24 April). You might also know Chris from his hilarious Instragram videos during the pandemic. Did you know that even the Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern watches Chris' videos?
Director Jennifer Peedom discusses her new film, RIVER. It's the sequel to the 2017 hit documentary MOUNTAIN, reuniting the creative team of Jennifer Peedom, the Australian Chamber Orchestra, narrator Willem Dafoe, and writer Robert Macfarlane. Writer James Bradley explores the cultural history of swimming with Amy through his essay in the Sydney Review of Books, 'Full Body Immersion.' Plus, Rachel Withers, Contributing Editor to THE MONTHLY and The Politics columnist talks about the latest in federal politics.
Director Jennifer Peedom discusses her new film, RIVER. The film explores the life and death of rivers and how humanity’s fortunes are intrinsically tied to them. RIVER is the sequel to the 2017 documentary MOUNTAIN, and reunites the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Richard Tognetti, narrator Willem Dafoe, and writer Robert Macfarlane, alongside new collaborators William Barton, Jonny Greenwood, and Radiohead.
Music from the film that was originally aired with this interview:
- Australian Chamber Orchestra, Richard Tognetti & Jonny Greenwood – Water (excerpt) [Live at the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, 2014]
- Radiohead - Harry Patch (In Memory Of)
- Australian Chamber Orchestra, Richard Tognetti & William Barton – Spirit Voice of the Enchanted Waters
Listen to the RIVER soundtrack.
Amy speaks in-depth with best-selling author Johann Hari about his new book, 'Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention.' Johann explores the attention crisis and why we have lost our ability to focus. He tells Amy how we can take back our attention at both an individual and systemic level – but we have to fight for it.
Amy speaks in-depth with best-selling author Johann Hari about his new book, Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention. Johann explores the attention crisis and why we have lost our ability to focus. He tells Amy how we can take back our attention at both an individual and systemic level, but we have to fight for it. Susanna Freymark, editor of northern NSW community newspaper indyNR.com, talks about the floods crisis in the Northern Rivers. She tells us stories of helicopter and boat rescues by residents, the inadequate government response at the height of the disaster, and what life is like now for flood-affected communities. Historians Professor Joy Damousi (ACU) and Professor Frank Bongiorno (ANU) join Amy to talk about the great late Australian historian Stuart Macintyre and his masterful second volume of the history of the Communist Party of Australia, The Party. They will be launching the book at Trades Hall.
Historian Anna Clark speaks with Amy about her new book, 'Making Australian History.' In a wide-ranging conversation, Anna looks at the history of Australian history, our changing and contested national story, and the many different people who make history.
Associate Professor Andrew Godwin, Principal Fellow at the Melbourne Law School, explores the fascinating life and work of William Ah Ket (1876-1936), Australia’s first barrister of Chinese heritage. He was widely admired and a fierce advocate for Chinese-Australians, defending them against racial discrimination. Andrew will deliver the 2022 Rare Book Lecture on Ah Ket. Eliza Hull joins Amy to talk about what life is like as a disabled parent in Australia – the joys and complexities. Eliza has edited the first major anthology by parents with disabilities, We've Got This: Stories By Disabled Parents. Emeritus Professor Marko Pavlyshyn, expert in Ukrainian Studies at Monash University discusses Russia's invasion of Ukraine, its historical and political context, and the escalating conflict across the country.
Independent political candidate and cultural sector leader Jo Dyer joins Amy to discuss what has gone wrong with federal politics and how we can change it for the better. Jo argues that there is a movement of independents running at the upcoming federal election who, if successful in large enough numbers, could change the way politics is done and what policy outcomes can be achieved almost immediately.
Jo speaks about her essay-length book, 'Burning Down the House: Reconstructing Modern Politics' and says, "if you want things to be different, you actually have to do something different." She is running for the marginal South Australian seat of Boothby.
Jo Dyer, independent candidate for Boothby (federal, SA) and cultural curator talks about where Australian politics went awry and how independents can reconstruct it – in her book, Burning Down The House: Reconstructing Modern Politics. Amidst rising alarmist rhetoric on China, Amy talks to author and historian Dr David Brophy about his book, China Panic: Australia’s Alternative to Paranoia and Pandering. Felicity Watson, Advocacy Manager at the National Trust of Australia (Vic) talks about why we must save the John Curtin Hotel in Carlton, and other culturally and socially valuable heritage pubs and buildings in Melbourne. Felicity takes us through the broader conservation and heritage situation in Victoria.
Historian and author Dr David Brophy explores his very relevant book, ‘China Panic: Australia’s Alternative to Paranoia and Pandering.’ David discusses this in the context of the federal government and media's escalating rhetoric around the China "threat."
Poet and advocate Dr Sarah Holland-Batt discusses the crisis in aged care in-depth, and talks of the many older Australians suffering and dying of COVID-19 due to unprecedented COVID-19 outbreaks in aged-care homes.
Does Australia need a "big" government? Dr Richard Denniss, chief economist at The Australia Institute examines the false narrative that Australians have been told for decades – that the less government spends, the better their lives will be. Richard talks about taxes, the weaponisation of shame in our welfare system, and what we can really afford as a country, if we choose it. His book is called, 'Big: The Role of the State in the Modern Economy.' Poet and advocate Dr Sarah Holland-Batt discusses the crisis in aged care in-depth and talks of the many older Australians suffering and dying of COVID-19 due to unprecedented COVID-19 outbreaks in aged care homes. Plus, Dr Ben Wellings, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Monash University, talks about the latest in UK politics, the ongoing Boris Johnson "party-gate" controversy, and declining public trust in politics and politicians.
Historian Emma Shortis and Guardian journalist Luke Henriques-Gomes review the year in Australian and U.S. politics. Epidemiologist and WHO Adviser Professor Mary-Louise McLaws takes us through everything we need to know about the Omicron variant, the current COVID-19 outbreaks in Victoria and NSW, plus how to best stay safe over the summer holiday period.
Epidemiologist and WHO Adviser Professor Mary-Louise McLaws takes us through everything we need to know about the Omicron variant, the current COVID-19 outbreaks in Victoria and NSW, plus how to best stay safe over the summer holiday period.
Have you heard about the damage being done to our orbital environments by rapidly growing satellite mega-constellations? Writer Ceridwen Dovey discusses her award-winning essay, "Everlasting Free Fall.” She writes that, “in the past 2 years, over 1000 new commercial satellites have been shot into low Earth Orbit.” These satellites are altering the night sky and have many consequences for the science of astronomy and our ability to spot potentially life-threatening asteroids. Listen as Ceridwen explains this concerning development, what it means for us, and the mental shift that needs to take place about space. "Everlasting Free Fall" is published in The Best Australian Science Writing 2021(NewSouth Books) and on theAlexanderdigital storytelling platform.
Economist Dr Richard Denniss debunks the political spin from Canberra during the last sitting week of parliament. He looks at the modelling and "plan" behind the Coalition's 'Net Zero by 2050' target, as well as the pandemic failures of the Morrison government. Nic Maclellan, Pacific Affairs Correspondent for Inside Story, discusses New Caledonia's third independence referendum controversy, civil unrest in the Solomon Islands, and much more. Writer Ceridwen Dovey explores her award-winning essay, "Everlasting Free Fall.” Have you heard about the damage being done to our orbital environments by rapidly growing satellite mega-constellations? “In the past 2 years, over 1000 new commercial satellites have been shot into low Earth Orbit.” These satellites are altering the night sky and have many consequences for the science of astronomy and our ability to spot potentially life-threatening asteroids. Ceridwen explains this concerning development, what it means for us, and the mental shift that needs to take place about space. "Everlasting Free Fall" is published in The Best Australian Science Writing 2021 (NewSouth Books) and on the Alexander digital storytelling platform.
Historian Emma Shortis talks about the latest in US politics including the Virginia election, as well as Australian diplomacy fails, and the COP26 climate talks. Emma is an author and Research Fellow at the EU Centre of Excellence at RMIT. Political historian Judith Brett reflects on over 40 years of writing about Australian politics, as she discusses subjects from her new book of past essays, Doing Politics: Writing on Public Life. Judith is Emeritus Professor of Politics at La Trobe University. Jordan Crook, Nature Conservation Campaigner at the Victorian National Parks Association and Qualified Arborist, chats about the concerning changes to native forest logging laws in Victoria, as well as some positive news for national parks in Central West Victoria and forest conservation.
Political historian Judith Brett reflects on over 40 years of writing about Australian politics, as she discusses subjects from her new book of past essays, Doing Politics: Writing on Public Life. Judith is Emeritus Professor of Politics at La Trobe University
Guardian Australia Environment Reporter Graham Readfearn previews the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow and talks about Australia's global reputation and history at the climate negotiations since Kyoto. He also discusses the Coalition government's internal negotiations over climate policy and net-zero by 2050. Historian Stuart Kells talks about his new book co-authored with Scott Hamilton, Sold Down The River: How Robber Barons and Wall Street Traders Cornered Australia’s Water Market. He looks at how the Murray-Darling Basin Plan and the marketisation of water has gone horribly wrong. Plus art historian Associate Professor Claire Roberts explores the life of Scottish-born painter Ian Fairweather. Claire has written a book about Fairweather's extended time living in China and his fascination with Chinese culture and language. It's called Fairweather and China.
Historian and author Stuart Kells talks about his new book, 'Sold Down The River: How Robber Barons and Wall Street Traders Cornered Australia’s Water Market.' He and co-author Scott Hamilton look at how the Murray-Darling Basin Plan and the marketisation of water has gone horribly wrong. Stuart Kells is also adjunct professor at La Trobe Business School. He has twice won the Ashurst Business Literature Prize.
Guardian Australia Environment Reporter Graham Readfearn previews the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow and talks about Australia's global reputation and history at UN climate negotiations since Kyoto. He also discusses the Coalition government's internal negotiations over climate policy and their eventual commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Is it enough?
Greg Mullins, long-serving volunteer firefighter and former NSW Fire and Rescue Commissioner discusses his book, 'Firestorm: Battling Super-Charged Natural Disasters.' Greg describes the dire effects of human-caused climate change on bushfire seasons here in Australia and globally. He also speaks out strongly over the policy and federal leadership vacuum on these issues.
Greg Mullins, firefighter and former NSW Fire and Rescue Commissioner discusses his book, 'Firestorm: Battling Super-Charged Natural Disasters.' Greg describes the dire effects of human-caused climate change on bushfire seasons here in Australia and globally. He also speaks out strongly over the policy and federal leadership vacuum on these issues. Epidemiologist Mary-Louise McLaws discusses Victoria's plan to exit lockdown and open up. Plus, the epidemiology of Victoria's current outbreak, our hospital capacity, Long Covid, and the push to reach high levels of vaccination coverage. Jaclyn Crupi, Melbourne-based bookseller and author, tells us how to 'Garden Like a Nonno: The Italian Art of Growing Your Own Food.’
Historian Dr Alexis Bergantz from RMIT talks about the diplomatic fallout from the AUKUS security and submarine announcement, and why Australia should have seen France’s hurt coming. NGV senior curators Dr Ted Gott and Dr Miranda Wallace discuss the pioneering artists and works featured in the NGV's latest major exhibition, French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Art, Boston. Historian Barabara Minchinton discusses her new book, The Women of Little Lon: Sex Workers in Nineteenth-Century Melbourne.
NGV senior curators Dr Ted Gott and Dr Miranda Wallace discuss the pioneering artists and works featured in the NGV's latest major exhibition, French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Art, Boston
Gabrielle Chan returns to talk about her new book, Why You Should Give A Fck About Farming*
Gabrielle Chan returns to talk about her new book, Why You Should Give A Fck About Farming.* Luke Henriques-Gomes, Social affairs & inequality editor at the Guardian, talks about inequality in Australia, including the Senate Inquiry into the Disability Support Pension, calls to bring back the coronavirus supplement payment, and the government's pursuit of alleged welfare debts. Lucie Krahulcova, Executive Director of Digital Rights Watch, speaks about the new national surveillance laws, which have just passed Australia's federal parliament. They give security agencies unprecedented powers for online surveillance, data interception and the alteration of data.
Dr Richard Denniss scrutinises the Prime Minister's "safe plan" for opening up Australia in a COVID world, and debunks the neo-liberal political spin from Canberra and NSW. Does the Doherty Institute's modelling support the plan? What does the modelling even say (in plain English)? And what are its underlying assumptions? Will lockdowns really be a thing of the past? How many Australians will still be unvaccinated once we reach the 80% adult vaccination target? How many cases will there be? Will our ICU's cope? Dr Richard Denniss is the chief economist at The Australia Institute.
Dr Richard Denniss, chief economist at The Australia Institute talks federal politics and closely examines Morrison's "safe plan" for opening up, including Richard's recent report on the centrality of Australia's TTIQ (Test, Trace, Isolate, Quarantine) system to the plan, which underpins the Doherty's modelling. Writer Bri Lee returns to talk about her new book, Who Gets to Be Smart: Privilege, Power and Knowledge. Art curator Sue Cramer explores the work and life of pioneering Swedish abstract artist of the 19th and 20th century, Hilma af Klint. Her work is being featured in a fully virtual exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW, Hilma af Klint At Home.
Renowned wildlife cinematographer Nick Hayward and behavioural ecologist Dr Anastasia Dalziell take us into the forest, describing the brilliant mimicry and fascinating behaviours of the lyrebird in Australia, and their involvement in The Message of the Lyrebird documentary, directed by Mark B. Pearce (Balagara Films).
Rachel Withers, Contributing Editor to The Monthly, discusses the latest in federal politics. Wildlife cinematographer Nick Hayward and behavioural ecologist Dr Anastasia Dalziell take us into the forest, describing the brilliant mimicry of the lyrebird in Australia and their involvement in The Message of the Lyrebird documentary, directed by Mark B. Pearce. Artist and writer Georgia Mill talks about her new podcast, A Fluorescent Feeling, which explores people's lived experiences of pain, illness, and disability. The series asks how we might record pain in new ways, how pain intersects with power, and how pain and intimacy are related.
Historian Dr Emma Shortis speaks in-depth about her brilliant debut book, Our Exceptional Friend: Australia’s Fatal Alliance with the United States. Guardian Australia’s environment reporter Graham Readfearn discusses the Australian government’s lobbying efforts to prevent the Great Barrier Reef from being listed as ‘in danger’ by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. Plus the committee's decision to list the Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex, and its consequences for the Karen people. Pacific affairs correspondent Nic Maclellan talks about the latest in Pacific politics, including President Emmanuel Macron’s recent visit to French Polynesia, the sudden rise in COVID-19 cases, and the ongoing legacy of nuclear testing and colonisation. Plus the COVID-19 situation across the Pacific, what happened at the latest Pacific Islands Forum, and Samoa's first female Prime Minister.
Historian and author Dr Emma Shortis joins Amy to speak in-depth about her brilliant debut book, Our Exceptional Friend: Australia’s Fatal Alliance with the United States. We begin the conversation considering the situation in Afghanistan where the Taliban has taken over and there is a mad scramble for countries like the U.S. and Australia to evacuate people from Kabul Airport.
Rod Campbell, Research Director at The Australia Institute talks about how Australia can gain a ‘Nordic Edge’ in its policy and politics. Rod co-edited a new book called, The Nordic Edge: Policy Possibilities for Australia. Author Harry Saddler discusses his new book, Questions Raised By Quolls: Fatherhood and Conservation in an Uncertain World – a very pertinent subject in a time of climate and extinction crisis. UNSW epidemiologist Professor Mary-Louise McLaws examines the federal government’s COVID-19 vaccination modelling and tells us whether these targets are high enough in order to safely open up. Mary-Louise is also a Member of the World Health Organisation’s Advisory Panel for Infection, Prevention and Control Preparedness and Response to COVID-19.
Amy speaks with Bill Bowtell about pandemic politics in Australia, the 'Zero COVID' strategy under threat in NSW, lockdowns, state and national vaccination targets, and all things public health. Bill Bowtell is an Adjunct Professor at the UNSW and a strategic public health adviser. He led Australia's response to the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Author Linda Jaivin discusses her new book, The Shortest History of China. Linda explores with Amy the vast expanse of China's fascinating cultural, philosophical, and political history from ancient and imperial times to the modern day. Linda has been studying Chinese politics, language, and culture for more than 40 years. She has been a foreign correspondent in China, and is co-editor of the China Story Yearbook (ANU Press).
Epidemiologist Professor Mary-Louise McLaws explains how Australia can reach herd immunity against COVID-19 and when children should be vaccinated against the virus in Australia. She also discusses the Delta variant outbreak in NSW and its concerning trajectory, the reality of Long COVID, and whether we will ever be able to treat this virus “like the flu,” as the Prime Minister suggests. Mary-Louise is a member of the WHO’s Advisory Panel for Infection, Prevention and Control Preparedness and Response to COVID-19.
Journalist Maddison Connaughton joins Amy to talk about the latest in federal politics. Epidemiologist Mary-Louise McLaws explains how Australia can reach herd immunity against COVID-19 and when children should be vaccinated against the virus in Australia. She also discusses the reality of Long COVID overseas and here, and whether we will ever be able to treat this virus “like the flu,” as the Prime Minister suggests. Plus when will NSW get on top of their Delta variant outbreak? Dr Kevin Rowe, senior curator of mammals atMuseums Victoria talks about the exciting taxonomic resurrection of a once thought to be extinct species, Gould’s mouse, which now survives on Bernie Island, Western Australia
Rachel Withers, Contributing Editor of The Monthly discusses the latest in federal politics. People for A Living Moorabool's Cameron Steele and water law expert Dr Erin O'Donnell discuss Victoria's most flow-stressed river – the Moorabool River – and a local film about it. Nic Maclellan, Pacific affairs correspondent for Inside Story, talks about Samoa's constitutional crisis, the COVID-19 outbreak in Fiji, and the push for a third referendum on independence in New Caledonia.
People for A Living Moorabool's Cameron Steele and water law and nature rights expert Dr Erin O'Donnell discuss Victoria's most flow-stressed river – the Moorabool River – and a new local documentary film about it called, THE RIVER MOORABOOL.
Epidemiologist and WHO Adviser Professor Mary-Louise McLaws speaks in-depth about Victoria's current coronavirus outbreak and fourth lockdown, as well as the urgent drive to get vaccinated. Mary-Louise talks about how we’re progressing and how long the lockdown might last, plus what policies need to be put in place now and in the future to prevent this from happening again. Historian Dr Emma Shortis, from the RMIT's EU Centre of Excellence, returns to talk about the latest in U.S. politics.
Epidemiologist Professor Mary-Louise McLaws speaks in-depth about Victoria's current coronavirus outbreak and fourth lockdown, as well as the urgent drive to get Australians vaccinated.
Mary-Louise talks about how long this lockdown should last based on an epidemiological perspective. Hint: Longer than 7 days! She also talks about the science behind vaccine effectiveness against the COVID variants of interest and concern.
Dr Richard Denniss talks about his newly updated book, Econobabble: How to Decode Political Spin and Economic Nonsense. Econobabble is the incomprehensible economic jargon politicians and commentators use to dress up their self-interest as the national interest, to make the absurd seem inevitable or the inequitable seem fair. Richard is the Chief Economist at The Australia Institute
Dr Richard Denniss talks about his newly updated book, Econobabble: How to Decode Political Spin and Economic Nonsense. Econobabble is the incomprehensible economic jargon politicians and commentators use to dress up their self-interest as the national interest, to make the absurd seem inevitable or the inequitable seem fair. Richard is the Chief Economist at The Australia Institute. Goongerah Environment Centre (GECO) campaigner Chris Schuringa discusses the Save Errinundra campaign and the latest developments in the quest to prevent native forest logging in East Gippsland’s forests. Art historian and author Janine Burke explores the themes from her new book My Forests: Travels with Trees, which looks at trees in art, myth, history and everyday life
The Monthly's Contributing Editor Rachel Withers talks about the political fallout from the federal budget and more. Nobel Prize-winning scientist Sir Paul Nurse sits down with Amy to explore and answer the question, What Is Life? This is considered in Paul's recent book, What Is Life? Understand biology in five steps. Journalist and author Zoe Holman talks about her new book, Where The Water Ends: Seeking Refuge in Fortress Europe, which explores Europe's migration and refugee crisis.
Nobel Prize-winning scientist Sir Paul Nurse sits down with Amy to explore and answer the question, What Is Life? This is considered in Paul's recent book, What Is Life? Understand biology in five steps. Paul is director and CEO of the Francis Crick Institute in London. His contributions to cell biology and cancer research were recognised with a knighthood in 1999, and his discovery of cell cycle regulatory molecules saw him jointly awarded the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine in 2001.
Human rights advocate and barrister Geoffrey Robertson QC joins Amy to discuss his new book, Bad People: And How to Be Rid of Them: A Plan B for Human Rights, which is the first book published on the 'Magnitsky Laws' that have been adopted by 31 countries worldwide. Geoffrey explains how targeted sanctions can act as a deterrent and punishment for individuals who commit crimes against humanity and serious corruption.
Ben Eltham, National Affairs Correspondent for New Matilda talks about the latest in federal politics, including what we know about tomorrow's budget. Human rights advocate and barrister Geoffrey Robertson QC joins Amy to discuss his new book, Bad People: And How to Be Rid of Them: A Plan B for Human Rights, which is the first book published on 'Magnitsky Laws' that have been adopted by 31 countries worldwide. Dr Chloe Ward, historian and Research Officer at the EU Centre of Excellence, RMIT, chats about the results of Scotland's election, the political fallout in Britain, and the renewed push for a second referendum on Scottish independence.
Barrister Richard Beasley SC joins Amy to discuss why he's angry about the death of the Murray-Darling Basin and what we can do about it. Richard's new book is called, Dead in the Water: A very angry book about our greatest environmental catastrophe... the death of the Murray-Darling Basin, published by Allen & Unwin.
Guardian reporter Luke Henriques-Gomes talks about the many proposed and controversial changes to the NDIS. Luke explains his exclusive report detailing how the proposed "independent assessments" for NDIS recipients would save the federal budget $700m and lead to smaller funding packages “on average” for disabled people. Barrister Richard Beasley SC discusses why he is angry about the death of the Murray-Darling Basin. His new book is called, Dead in the Water: A very angry book about our greatest environmental catastrophe. . . the death of the Murray-Darling Basin. Historian Professor Michelle Arrow from Macquarie University talks about the many archival treasures on the brink of destruction due to chronic federal funding cuts to the budget of the National Archives of Australia.
Dr Monica Bell, associate professor of law and sociology at Yale University joins Amy to discuss the murder of George Floyd and the trial of Derek Chauvin, as well as pervasive police violence against Black and brown Americans and the push for racial justice in the United States.
Hong Kong-based lawyer and author Antony Dapiran discusses the latest developments in Hong Kong politics, including Beijing's overhaul of the electoral system and LegCo, the prosecution of an investigative journalist, and the jailing of pro-democracy activists. Dr Monica Bell, associate professor of law and sociology at Yale University joins Amy to discuss the murder of George Floyd and the Derek Chauvin trial, amidst the backdrop of pervasive police violence against Black and brown Americans and the push for racial justice in the United States. Yuin man and conservation ecologist Dr Jack Pascoe discusses his connection to Bangerak country, also known as Cape Otway. Jack's essay on the subject has been published in Animals Make Us Human.
Amy talks with fungi expert, ecologist, natural historian, and photographer Dr Alison Pouliot about her new book, Wild Mushrooming: A Guide for Foragers, co-authored with Tom May (CSIRO Publishing). Alison takes us on a foray and forage through the Kingdom Fungi. She shares how we can forage for mushrooms with safety, respect for nature, and conservation at the forefront. This is a special extended conversation.
With the mushroom season well underway, Amy chats with fungi expert Dr Alison Pouliot about her new book, Wild Mushrooming: A Guide for Foragers. Epidemiologist and WHO Adviser Professor Mary-Louise McLaws talks about what Australia must do to "reset" and fix the vaccine rollout. PhD student, author, and photographer James Dorey explores his fascinating rediscovery of the rare cloaked bee, Pharohylaeus lactiferus, last seen in Australia in 1923.
Guardian Australia reporter Luke Henriques-Gomes returns to discuss poverty, disability and unemployment policy in Australia, as well as the government’s proposed introduction of controversial NDIS ‘independent assessments’. A special panel of experts join Amy to discuss the Declaration of the Rights of the Moon, which they co-authored. Hear from US-based nature rights advocate Mari Margil, Executive Director of Center for Democratic and Environmental Rights, as well as space archaeologist Alice Gorman aka 'Dr Space Junk', and Thomas Gooch, founder of the Office of Planetary Observations as they talk about why we must protect the moon from human exploitation and interference now, more than ever. Professor David Lindenmayer, a world-leading expert in forest ecology based at the ANU Fenner School of Environment & Society’s returns to discuss his latest co-authored research paper showing that 19 major Australian ecosystems are collapsing. This includes Victoria’s critically-endangered Mountain Ash forests.
A panel of experts join Amy to discuss why the Moon has a "right to exist, persist and continue its vital cycles unaltered, unharmed and unpolluted by human beings." Hear from co-authors of the 'Declaration of the Rights of the Moon’; US-based nature rights advocate Mari Margil, space archaeologist Alice Gorman aka 'Dr Space Junk', and landscape architect Thomas Gooch. They talk about why we must protect the moon from human exploitation and interference, especially with plans currently underway to mine and extract resources on the Moon. Two additional co-authors were involved in the writing of the Declaration; Ceridwen Dovey and Dr Michelle Maloney.
Rick Morton, senior reporter at The Saturday Paper speaks in-depth about the aged care sector in crisis, which has been deteriorating since 1997. Rick also discusses the major findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and its recommendations to the federal government.
Rick Morton, senior reporter at The Saturday Paper speaks in-depth about the aged care sector in crisis and which has been deteriorating since 1997. Rick also discusses the major findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and its recommendations to the federal government. Philosopher Danielle Celermajer talks about her new book, Summertime: Reflections on a Vanishing Future, which examines the 2019-20 bushfires and what it reveals about our relationship with nature. Street artist Tyrone 'RONE' Wright and curator Lisa Sullivan discuss RONE’s first major survey show now showing at the Geelong Gallery, called RONE in GEELONG.
It's an International Women’s Day special. Maddison Connaughton, Editor of The Saturday Paper talks about sexual assault allegations in politics and the Aged Care Royal Commission findings. Author and former war correspondent Elizabeth Becker talks about three brilliant women war reporters on the frontline during the Vietnam War, from her new book, You Don’t Belong Here: How Three Women Rewrote the Story of War. And biographer Jacqueline Kent discusses her book, Vida, which examines the lives of women activists and politicians who shaped Victoria, including suffragist Vida Goldstein.
Former war correspondent Elizabeth Becker talks about three brilliant women war reporters who made their own way to report on the frontline during the Vietnam War – Australian combat reporter Kate Webb, French daredevil photojournalist Catherine Leroy, and American intellectual Frances FitzGerald. Elizabeth draws out their fascinating careers in her new book, You Don’t Belong Here: How Three Women Rewrote the Story of War.
Award-winning investigative reporter Marian Wilkinson joins Amy to talk in-depth about her revealing book, The Carbon Club: How a network of influential climate sceptics, politicians and business leaders fought to control Australia's climate policy. The Australia Institute’s chief economist Dr Richard Denniss discusses the permanent change (ie. cut) to the rate of the unemployment allowance. After years of lobbying is the rate adequate and what does this mean for people currently struggling and living below the poverty line? We talk about all things relating to Australia’s economy and federal politics. Virologist Associate Professor Stuart Turville from the Kirby Institute explains what a viral strain, mutation, and variant is in relation to SARS-CoV-2. What do new variants mean for our current vaccines? He also shares with us the ‘immunological unicorn’ he discovered - a person who had the perfect immune response to COVID-19 - and what we can learn from it.
Award-winning investigative reporter Marian Wilkinson joins Amy to talk in-depth about her revealing book, The Carbon Club: How a network of influential climate sceptics, politicians and business leaders fought to control Australia's climate policy.
Acclaimed historian Henry Reynolds speaks with Amy about the historical reality of the colonisation of Australia, and why it is legally, historically, and morally clear that Indigenous sovereignty was never ceded. Henry also discusses his life's research on the frontier wars in Australia and his views on treaty-making, memorialisation, and confronting our violent history. His new book is 'Truth-Telling: History, Sovereignty, and the Uluru Statement'.
Acclaimed historian Henry Reynolds brings us some serious truth-telling with his book of the same name, Truth-Telling: History, Sovereignty And The Uluru Statement. Henry takes us through the historical reality of the British colonisation of Australia, and why it is legally, historically and morally clear that Indigenous sovereignty was never ceded. The Monthly's contributing editor Rachel Withers talks about sexual assault and rape allegations in politics and the news media bargaining code. Plus journalist Nic Maclellan returns to update us on politics in the Pacific, including trouble at the Pacific Islands Forum, and the first pro-independent government in New Caledonia since 1999.
Award-winning investigative reporter Louise Milligan delves into the issues examined in her latest book, Witness: An Investigation Into the Brutal Cost of Seeking Justice. Louise talks about the traumatic effects witnesses and complainants of sexual abuse experience under cross-examination, and whilst navigating the criminal justice system in Australia.
Award-winning investigative reporter Louise Milligan delves into the issues examined in her latest book, 'Witness: An Investigation Into the Brutal Cost of Seeking Justice.' Louise talks about the traumatic effects witnesses and complainants of sexual abuse experience under cross-examination, and whilst navigating the criminal justice system in Australia. Epidemiologist and WHO Advisor on COVID-19 Professor Mary-Louise McLaws returns to discuss what needs to happen for Australia to achieve herd immunity against COVID-19 through vaccination. She also talks about Victoria's 5-day lockdown, the 'variants of concern' now in the community, Australia's hotel quarantine issues, and the scientific verdict on airborne transmission. Hong Kong-based lawyer and author Antony Dapiran returns to discuss the ongoing political crackdowns in Hong Kong that have resulted since far-reaching national security laws were introduced in 2020.
Philosopher and diver Peter Godfrey-Smith speaks in-depth about his new book, Metazoa: Animal Minds and the Birth of Consciousness. Peter explains how conscious experience evolved from animals in the sea millions of years ago. He introduces us to some of the fascinating creatures he meets on his scuba dives; sponges, soft coral, banded shrimp, giant cuttlefish, and hermit crabs. Peter is a professor in the School of History and Philosophy of Science at The University of Sydney. University of Melbourne conservation ecologist professor Brendan Wintle returns to talk about the major recommendations made to the federal government from the independent review of Australia’s environment laws (the EPBC Act). Will these recommended changes, if implemented in full, protect the environment? Historian Dr Chloe Ward from RMIT will call in to discuss the latest in UK politics, with England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland still in a strict lockdown to get on top of COVID-19 cases which are currently about 14,000 each day.
Philosopher and scuba diver Peter Godfrey-Smith speaks in-depth about his new book, Metazoa: Animal Minds and the Birth of Consciousness. Peter explains how conscious experience evolved from animals in the sea millions of years ago. He introduces us to some of the fascinating creatures he meets on his scuba dives; sponges, soft coral, banded shrimp, giant cuttlefish, and hermit crabs. Peter is a professor in the School of History and Philosophy of Science at The University of Sydney.
Amy returns for her first show of 2021! Dr Emma Shortis, Research Fellow at the EU Centre of Excellence, RMIT, delivers the US Politics Wrap talking about the Capital coup and media reporting of it, Joe Biden’s first days and actions as US President, the impending impeachment trial, and more. Author and regenerative farmer Charles Massy joins Amy to discuss the re-release of his acclaimed book, Call Of The Reed Warbler: A New Agriculture, A New Earth. We talk about the extensive environmental, health, and economic benefits of regenerative agriculture (the alternative to industrial agriculture), as well as the connection between soil health and human health. Charles shares why the transition to regenerative farming practices is urgent now more than ever. The Heide Museum of Modern Art's senior curator Kendrah Morgan stops by to discuss their major retrospective exhibition, Joy Hester: Remember Me, which marks the centenary of Hester's birth by exploring the range and depth of Hester's expressionistic and modernist works.
Author and regenerative farmer Charles Massy joins Amy to discuss the re-release of his acclaimed book, Call Of The Reed Warbler: A New Agriculture, A New Earth. We talk about the extensive environmental, health, and economic benefits of regenerative agriculture (the alternative to industrial agriculture), as well as the connection between soil health and human health. Charles shares why the transition to regenerative farming practices is urgent now more than ever.
Kate Manne, Australian philosopher at Cornell University (NYC), joins Amy to discuss her new book, Entitled: How Male Privilege Hurts Women, and her ground-breaking previous book, Down Girl: The Logic of Misogyny.
Kate Manne, Australian philosopher at Cornell University (NYC), joins Amy to discuss her new book, Entitled: How Male Privilege Hurts Women, and her ground-breaking previous book, Down Girl: The Logic of Misogyny. Uncommon Sense regulars Emma Shortis and Ben Eltham stop by for the 2020 year-in-review politics wrap talking all things Australian and US politics – the lows, and the even deeper lows – sprinkled with some necessary humour. Chris Moore of Sailors Grave Brewing in Orbost, East Gippsland, chats with Amy about their creative collaborations with local people and producers, including their Dark Emu Dark Lager with Bunurong and Yuin man, Bruce Pascoe.
Dr Skye Cleary, philosopher at Columbia University, NYC, explores the essential features of existentialism from her co-edited book, How to Live a Good Life: A Guide to Choosing Your Personal Philosophy.
Historian and evolutionary neurobiologist Dr Matthew Cobb joins Amy for a deep conversation on The Idea of the Brain: A History. Dr Skye Cleary, philosopher at Columbia University, NYC, explores the essential features of existentialism from her co-edited book, How to Live a Good Life: A Guide to Choosing Your Personal Philosophy. Historian Dr Chloe Ward from RMIT on the latest in UK politics and the tense Brexit negotiations between Britain and the European Union.
Historian and evolutionary neurobiologist Dr Matthew Cobb joins Amy for a deep conversation on The Idea of the Brain: A History.
Former Australian Ambassador to China Geoff Raby joins Amy for an in-depth conversation about his new book, China's Grand Strategy and Australia’s Future in the New Global Order, which examines China’s place in the world and the strategy behind its actions. They also discuss diplomatic relations between Beijing and Canberra, which are at an all time low. Why has the situation worsened in recent years and months, and what can be done? Epidemiologist and WHO COVID-19 advisor Professor Mary-Louise McLaws returns to discuss what we have learned globally about the coronavirus (SARS-Cov-2) and what we must do in Australia to keep COVID-19 transmission at zero to very low. Mary-Louise also discusses the risk of viral transmission through aerosol particles, how best to ventilate spaces, contact-tracing best practice, and the concerning development of people chronically ill with 'long COVID'. Plus Ben Eltham calls in to talk about the latest in federal politics.
Former Australian Ambassador to China Geoff Raby joins Amy for an in-depth conversation about his new book, China's Grand Strategy and Australia’s Future in the New Global Order, which examines China’s place in the world and the strategy behind its actions. They also discuss diplomatic relations between Beijing and Canberra, which are at an all time low. Why has the situation worsened in recent years and months, and what can be done?
US politics expert Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT joins Amy for an in-depth and extensive analysis of the US election – what happened, what does it mean for the US, and what does it mean for the rest of the world, including Australia? Dr Gabriel da Silva, lecturer in chemical engineering from The University of Melbourne on the effects of air pollution and particularly bushfire smoke. He outlines the changes we must make to manage air pollutions hazards nationally going forward. Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
US politics expert Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT joins Amy for an in-depth and extensive analysis of the US election – what happened, what does it mean for the US, and what does it mean for the rest of the world, including Australia?
Former Victorian Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley speaks with Amy about the findings of the Bushfire Royal Commission report that was just handed down and what we must do to prepare for the bushfire season. Craig has been advocating alongside fellow Emergency Leaders for Climate Action to put climate change at the centre of Australia’s bushfire and natural disasters response. Dr Manu Saunders, an insect ecologist at the University of New England, speaks about what native pollinators are getting up to in our gardens and ecosystems this spring, and how to participate in the Wild Pollinator Count, which is being held during Australian Pollinator Week (8-15 November 2020). Dr Richard Denniss, Chief Economist at The Australia Institute chats with Amy about Australia’s economic woes and the need for a robust and effective federal ICAC.
Former Victorian Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley speaks with Amy about the findings of the Bushfire Royal Commission report that was just handed down and what we must do to prepare for the bushfire season. Craig has been advocating alongside fellow Emergency Leaders for Climate Action to put climate change at the centre of Australia’s bushfire and natural disasters response.
Former Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis joins Amy for a special conversation about his vision for a post-capitalist society. They discuss Yanis's political influences, his time as Finance Minister seeking to negotiate a financial settlement for Greece and his battle with Europe's establishment, as well delving deeply into his new book, Another Now: Dispatches From An Alternative Present. Abigail Compton, artistic director and founder of Third Drawer Down chats with Amy about her beautiful new book, Truth Bomb: Inspiration from the Mouths and Minds of Women Artists. And Ben Eltham from New Matilda chats about federal and Victorian politics.
Former Greek finance minister and economist Yanis Varoufakis joined Amy Mullins for a long-form conversation about his vision for a fair, just, and competitive post-capitalist society, as detailed in his new book Another Now: Dispatches from an Alternative Present. They discuss his political activism, influences, and time as finance minister in 2015 seeking to negotiate a settlement for Greece with Europe’s establishment. Yanis is a professor of economics at the University of Athens and co-founder of Diem25.
Guardian Australia inequality and welfare reporter Luke Henriques-Gomes discusses how the reductions in JobKeeper and JobSeeker payments have been affecting Australians, as well as the difficulties faced in this recession, particularly by older women. Dr Chloe Ward from RMIT University chats about the latest in UK politics, including the British government’s threats of a no-deal Brexit with the EU and the recent surge in COVID-19 cases (recording up to 16,000+ positive cases daily). Historian Professor Michelle Arrow from Macquarie University joins Amy to talk about why we must value a thriving humanities and fund the study of history, philosophy and many other disciplines at universities and beyond.
Writer Katerina Bryant delves into mental illness and bias in the medical system in her new book, Hysteria: A Memoir of Illness, Strength and Women’s Stories Throughout History. Professor Brendan Wintle, conservation ecologist and director of the Threatened Species Recovery Hub joins Amy to talk about the ongoing bushfire recovery efforts to save threatened species, recent positive case studies in conservation, and the latest reports on global biodiversity loss. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda goes in-depth on the Federal Budget and Labor’s Budget Reply.
Writer Katerina Bryant delves into mental illness and bias in the medical system in her new book, Hysteria: A Memoir of Illness, Strength and Women’s Stories Throughout History.
French journalist and author Guillaume Pitron talks about his eye-opening new book, The Rare Metals War: The Dark Side of Clean Energy and Digital Technologies. Dr Chris Wallace from the University of Canberra shares with us the secrets of electoral success with her book, How to Win an Election. And Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT stops by to talk about the US Presidential Election and the growing White House coronavirus cluster, that includes President Trump.
French journalist and author Guillaume Pitron talks about his eye-opening new book, The Rare Metals War: The Dark Side of Clean Energy and Digital Technologies.
Amy talks to biographer and journalist Jacqueline Kent about the life of courageous suffragist, politician, and social reformer of the 20th century, Vida Goldstein.
Amy talks to biographer and journalist Jacqueline Kent about the life of courageous suffragist, politician, and social reformer of the 20th century, Vida Goldstein. Professor David Lindenmayer from the ANU Fenner School of Environment & Society is one of the world's most cited forest ecologists. He discusses new research on the Central Highlands showing the direct effects that fire and logging are having on the forests – substantially reducing the number of hollow-bearing trees that threatened and critically endangered Australian mammals can use as homes. Plus Ben Eltham, national affairs correspondent for New Matilda, on the latest in federal politics.
RMIT’s Dr Emma Shortis joins Amy to discuss the life of feminist icon and US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg - who died on Friday. They will also discuss the implications of her passing on the looming US Presidential Election, and all the latest in US politics. Nic Maclellan, Pacific affairs correspondent for Inside Story magazine, talks about the upcoming independence referendum in New Caledonia – what would a yes or no vote mean for the island nation? As well as news from pacific island nations, including how they are managing in the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus Ben Eltham on the week in federal politics.
Nic Maclellan, Pacific affairs correspondent for Inside Story magazine, talks about the upcoming independence referendum in New Caledonia – what would a yes or no vote mean for the island nation? As well as news from pacific island nations, including how they are managing in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Philosopher Dr Kate Kirkpatrick discusses her recent biography, Becoming Beauvoir: A Life. Kate examines with great precision, insight, and balance, the life of French writer, feminist, and philosopher Simone de Beauvoir. Beauvoir’s life and work has often been distorted and overshadowed by her working and romantic relationship with Jean-Paul Sartre. Kate debunks some of the major misconceptions about Beauvoir’s life, and shares just how influential and original Beauvoir’s intellectual contribution to philosophy was and is. Dr Kate Kirkpatrick is a Tutorial Fellow in Philosophy at Regent’s Park College, University of Oxford, UK.
Philosopher Dr Kate Kirkpatrick discusses her recent biography, Becoming Beauvoir: A Life. Kate examines with great precision, insight, and balance, the life of French writer, feminist, and philosopher Simone de Beauvoir. Beauvoir’s life and work has often been distorted and overshadowed by her working and romantic relationship with Jean-Paul Sartre. Kate debunks some of the major misconceptions about Beauvoir’s life, and shares just how influential and original Beauvoir’s intellectual contribution to philosophy was and is. Dr Kate Kirkpatrick is a Tutorial Fellow in Philosophy at Regent’s Park College, University of Oxford, UK. David Brophy, historian and lecturer in modern Chinese history from the University of Sydney, joins the show to discuss Australia’s deteriorating relationship with China, how this affects the lives of Chinese Australians, and why we must be careful to avoid paranoia and panic about “Chinese influence.” Plus Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Biologist and writer Merlin Sheldrake joins Amy from London for an in-depth conversation about his new book, Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds, and Shape Our Futures. They discuss the mysterious, lively and endlessly fascinating fungi kingdom. Poet and aged-care reform advocate Sarah Holland-Batt speaks about the many issues surrounding the coronavirus outbreaks in aged-care homes in Victoria that has led to the early death of so many elderly Australians. Sarah is an Associate Professor in Creative Writing at QUT and Chair of Australian Book Review. Plus Ben Eltham discusses the latest in federal politics.
Biologist and writer Merlin Sheldrake joins Amy from London for an in-depth conversation about his new book, Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds, and Shape Our Futures. They discuss the mysterious, lively and endlessly fascinating fungi kingdom.
British writer Robert Macfarlane joins Amy for a special long-form conversation about the connections between landscape, language, people, and place. They delve into Robert’s latest book, Underland: A Deep Time Journey, and also draw on ideas from his past works including, Mountains of the Mind, The Old Ways, and Landmarks. Robert is a Fellow of Emmanuel College, Cambridge University. Danya Jacobs, senior lawyer from Environmental Justice Australia tells Amy about the federal court case she co-led and won on behalf of Friends of Leadbeater's Possum Inc. against VicForests to protect our old growth native forests and endangered species. What do the final court orders mean for the protection of native forests in Victoria? Plus Ben Eltham discusses the latest in federal politics.
British writer Robert Macfarlane joins Amy for a special long-form conversation about the connections between landscape, language, people, and place. They delve into Robert’s latest book, Underland: A Deep Time Journey, and also draw on ideas from his past works including, Mountains of the Mind, The Old Ways, and Landmarks. Robert is a Fellow of Emmanuel College, Cambridge University.
A special National Science Week show! Psychologist Professor Cordelia Fine from the University of Melbourne talks about the real science behind sex differences, drawing on her 2017 book, Testosterone Rex, and her Aeon Magazine essay 'Sexual Dinosaurs'. Cordelia debunks the gender biases in neuroscience and evolutionary biology that exaggerate the role of testosterone in male and female brains and behaviour. Her book, Testosterone Rex won the prestigious Royal Society Science Book Prize in the UK. John Delpratt, horticultural scientist and Honorary Fellow at the University of Melbourne, tells us about the process of restoring the threatened native grasslands and wildflowers of Victoria, and the fate of the Western Grassland Reserve. These precious grasslands have been taken over by urban development, and just 10% of the agreed land has been acquired by the state government by the 2020 deadline. Plus Ben Eltham chats about the latest on federal politics.
Psychologist Professor Cordelia Fine from the University of Melbourne talks about the real science behind sex differences, drawing on her 2017 book, Testosterone Rex, and her Aeon Magazine essay 'Sexual Dinosaurs'. Cordelia debunks the gender biases in neuroscience and evolutionary biology that exaggerate the role of testosterone in male and female brains and behaviour. Her book, Testosterone Rex won the prestigious Royal Society Science Book Prize in the UK.
LA-based journalist Lesley Blume speaks about her new book, Fallout: the Hiroshima cover-up and the reporter who revealed it to the world
LA-based journalist Lesley Blume speaks about her new book, Fallout: the Hiroshima cover-up and the reporter who revealed it to the world. Dr Katja Hogendoorn, an entomologist and native bee expert from the University of Adelaide talks about the dazzling Metallic Green Carpenter Bee, why it's vulnerable to extinction, and how her team is trying to save this species on Kangaroo Island after the devastating summer bushfires. And historian Dr Chloe Ward from RMIT tells us about the latest in UK politics.
Freelance writer Anthony Ham discusses his new book, The Last Lions of Africa: Stories from the Frontline in the Battle to Save a Species.
Freelance writer Anthony Ham discusses his new book, The Last Lions of Africa: Stories from the Frontline in the Battle to Save a Species. Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT talks about the latest in US politics, including concerns around Trump's ongoing undermining of the US postal service and the effect it may have on postal voting in the November Presidential Election. And Alison Pennington, senior economist at the Centre for Future Work on the increasingly deregulated labour market and how women are experiencing rising inequality due to COVID-19.
Professor Jenny Hocking discusses her High Court win to have the "Palace Letters" released by the National Archives of Australia, and what they reveal about the 1975 Whitlam Dismissal.
Professor Jenny Hocking discusses her High Court win to have the "Palace Letters" released by the National Archives of Australia, and what they reveal about the 1975 Whitlam Dismissal. Deakin University philosopher Dr Matthew Sharpe explores how the ideas of Marcus Aurelius and Stoic philosophy can help us get through the Melbourne lockdown and COVID-19 pandemic. And Dr Richard Denniss, Chief Economist at The Australia Institute, explains the state of Australia's economy during COVID-19 and de-mystifies the economic symbolism at play in the federal government's response. He also explains the Treasurer's 'back to the 1980's' fiscal inspiration, and what the changes to JobKeeper and JobSeeker mean for us.
Professor Mary-Louise McLaws is an epidemiologist at UNSW, and a member of the World Health Organisation’s Advisory Panel for Infection, Prevention and Control Preparedness and Response to COVID-19. Mary-Louise joins Amy for an in-depth look at how wearing a face mask inhibits the spread of the coronavirus. They also discuss the evidence and arguments for Victoria and Australia undertaking an elimination strategy as opposed to the current nationally-endorsed suppression strategy. Mary-Louise shares the emerging evidence that COVID-19 causes medium and potentially long-term chronic illness and disability in some people, including young, previously healthy adults. This conversation occurs in the context of Victoria’s current increase in COVID-19 cases – the second wave. Historian and author Patrick Mullins returns to the show to chat about his new book, The Trials of Portnoy: how Penguin brought down Australia’s censorship system. Plus Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Professor Mary-Louise McLaws is an epidemiologist at UNSW, and a member of the World Health Organisation’s Advisory Panel for Infection, Prevention and Control Preparedness and Response to COVID-19. Mary-Louise joins Amy for an in-depth look at how wearing a face mask inhibits the spread of the coronavirus. They also discuss the evidence and arguments for Victoria and Australia undertaking an elimination strategy as opposed to the current nationally-endorsed suppression strategy. Mary-Louise shares the emerging evidence that COVID-19 causes medium and potentially long-term chronic illness and disability in some people, including young, previously healthy adults. This conversation occurs in the context of Victoria’s current increase in COVID-19 cases – the second wave.
Historian Liam Byrne discusses the early lives of two former Labor Prime Ministers in his new book, Becoming John Curtin and James Scullin: The Making of the Modern Labor Party, 1876 –1921. Marine biologist Sarah Laverick talks about Antarctica, World Ocean Day, and her book, Through Ice & Fire: The Adventures, Science and People Behind Australia's Famous Icebreaker Aurora Australis. Plus Ben Eltham chats about the latest in federal politics.
Historian Liam Byrne discusses the early lives of two former Labor Prime Ministers in his new book, Becoming John Curtin and James Scullin: The Making of the Modern Labor Party, 1876 –1921
Amy speaks with historian Rutger Bregman about his timely new book, Humankind: A Hopeful History. Rutger delves into the evidence for why and how most humans are actually pretty decent, and just how radical it is to believe this. Rutger last joined the show in July 2017 to talk about his book, Utopia For Realists.
Amy speaks with historian Rutger Bregman about his timely new book, Humankind: A Hopeful History. Rutger delves into the evidence for why and how most humans are actually pretty decent, and just how radical it is to believe this. Rutger last joined the show in July 2017 to talk about his book, Utopia For Realists. US politics expert Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT joins Amy to examine the protests occurring across North America (and the world) in response to the police killing of African-American man George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25. And Ben Eltham from New Matilda chats about the latest in federal politics, including the government’s announcement they will be refunding $721 million to people who were incorrectly told they owed money to Centrelink, the so-called 'robodebt' scheme.
John Keane, Professor of Politics at the University of Sydney talks about his recent book The New Despotism, which examines the anti-democratic practices of despotic governments sweeping the world, and the current threats to democracy. Journalist and author Madeleine Chapman joins Amy to discuss her biography of one of the world's most admired political leaders, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. And Dr Richard Denniss, Chief Economist at The Australia Institute chats with Amy about the dire economic straits Australian businesses and workers finds themselves in due to the coronavirus pandemic, and how and when we might achieve an economic recovery.
John Keane, Professor of Politics at the University of Sydney talks about his recent bookThe New Despotism,which examines the anti-democratic practices of despotic governments sweeping the world, and the current threats to democracy.
Amy is joined by Melburnian Nicholas Dowse, founder of the urban beekeeping collective Honey Fingers, ahead of World Bee Day. They discuss the fascinating hive mind of honey bees, how beekeeping has evolved in modern times, its similarities with modernist architecture, and the special relationship humans have with bees. Nic also shares his urban beekeeping practices, and the process he goes through to make raw honey.
Amy is joined by Melburnian Nicholas Dowse, founder of the urban beekeeping collective Honey Fingers, ahead of World Bee Day. They discuss the fascinating hive mind of honey bees, how beekeeping has evolved in modern times, its similarities with modernist architecture, and the special relationship humans have with bees. Nic also shares his urban beekeeping practices, and the process he goes through to make raw honey. Historian Dr Chloe Ward from RMIT joined Amy to discuss the latest in UK politics, including the Tory government's controversial management of the COVID-19 pandemic, and how the new Labour Leader Keir Starmer is performing. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda discusses the latest in federal politics.
American naturalist and writer Sy Montgomery joined Amy to discuss her lifelong relationship with animals, and explore ideas about animal intelligence and consciousness from her critically acclaimed books The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration Into the Wonder of Consciousness and How to Be a Good Creature.
Luke Henriques-Gomes, reporter for the Guardian Australia chats about the latest in welfare and social policy, including the federal government’s response to the COVID–19 unemployment crisis. American naturalist and writer Sy Montgomery joined Amy to discuss her lifelong relationship with animals, and explore ideas about animal intelligence and consciousness from her critically acclaimed books The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration Into the Wonder of Consciousness and How to Be a Good Creature. Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT on the latest in US politics, including the escalating coronavirus death toll and protests demanding state governors open up local societies and the American economy.
Renowned American science writer David Quammen joined Amy to discuss his prescient 2012 book, Spillover: Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic. David explores why zoonotic spillovers that cause diseases like COVID–19 are occurring more and more. He also tells us what humans must do to prevent the next viral pandemic, including changing our relationship to nature and stopping the disruption and destruction of diverse ecosystems. Megan Patty, Head of Publications at the National Gallery of Victoria talks about their latest book of essays, She Persists: Perspectives on Women in Art & Design, which highlights the work of women artists across centuries and cultures. Megan also discusses her essay on the poster as a site of resistance, and 1980s feminist art activists the Guerrilla Girls. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda chats about the latest in federal politics.
Renowned American science writer David Quammen joined Amy to discuss his prescient 2012 book, Spillover: Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic. David explores why zoonotic spillovers that cause diseases like COVID–19 are occurring more and more. He also tells us what humans must do to prevent the next viral pandemic, including changing our relationship to nature and stopping the disruption and destruction of diverse ecosystems.
Historian Dr Alessandro Antonello from Flinders University joins Amy to discuss the politics and history of Antarctica and tells us about a very hot summer on the coldest continent on Earth
Historian Dr Alessandro Antonello from Flinders University joins Amy to discuss the politics and history of Antarctica and tells us about a very hot summer on the coldest continent on Earth. Journalist Kate Leaver chats about her new book, Good Dog, and the many benefits of the human-canine bond. Kate shares stories about those special dogs who lift our spirits and in some cases, save our lives. Plus Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics and Australia’s response to COVID-19.
Hong Kong-based lawyer and author Antony Dapiran joined Amy to discuss his new book, City on Fire: The Fight for Hong Kong, which takes us to the frontlines of the 2019 protest movement. Virologist Dr Sacha Stelzer-Braid from UNSW’s Faculty of Medicine tells us all about the behaviour of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, why it's so contagious, and how to keep it away from your home, hands, face, and surfaces. Professor Andrew Walter, an international relations expert from The University of Melbourne explores the latest developments in UK politics, including the election of Keir Starmer as Labour Leader. Plus Ben Eltham on the latest in Australian politics, including an arts sector in crisis and the 1 million casuals and others left out of the latest government stimulus measures.
Hong Kong-based lawyer and author Antony Dapiran joined Amy to discuss his new book, City on Fire: The Fight for Hong Kong, which takes us to the frontlines of the 2019 protest movement.
David George Haskell, Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies from the University of the South (USA) discusses his fascinating book, The Songs of Trees: Stories From Nature's Great Connectors (Black Inc). Laureate Professor Nicholas Talley AC, Editor-in-Chief of The Medical Journal of Australia (MJA), speaks with Amy about the coronavirus pandemic. They discuss the state of ICU bed and ventilator capacity in Australia, widespread concerns over the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), whether Australia’s testing criteria needs to be expanded, and what the MJA's new COVID-19 surge modelling says about our health system’s ability to cope with increased demand. Dr Emma Shortis, from RMIT's EU Centre of Excellence, on the latest in US politics, including Trump's handling of COVID-19. Plus Ben Eltham on federal politics, including the most recent economic and health announcements and what they mean in practice.
David George Haskell, Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies from the University of the South (USA) discusses his fascinating book, The Songs of Trees: Stories From Nature's Great Connectors (Black Inc).
Amy speaks with author and Harvard Review editor Christina Thompson about her book, Sea People: The Puzzle of Polynesia, which explores the quest to understand who first settled the islands of the remote Pacific, where they came from, and how they got there. Associate Professor Gemma Carey, Research Director of the Centre for Social Impact at UNSW, discusses how the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic is affecting people with a disability and/or chronic illness, and what support the government and the NDIS need to provide so people with a disability and their carers are not left behind and put at increased health risks. Plus, Ben Eltham from New Matilda on federal politics, including the latest on public health measures, social security support announcements, and what the next coronavirus economic stimulus package means for you.
Amy speaks with author and Harvard Review editor Christina Thompson about her book, Sea People: The Puzzle of Polynesia, which explores the quest to understand who first settled the islands of the remote Pacific, where they came from, and how they got there.
Bill Bowtell, strategic health policy adviser and Adjunct Professor at UNSW, discusses the Australian government's handling of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, and how it compares to the various approaches other countries are taking. He also discuss the crucial role of state and local governments, and what we can do ourselves. Bill Bowtell was an architect of the Australian government’s successful response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Sophie McNeill, investigative reporter and former ABC foreign correspondent in the Middle East joins Amy to discuss her book, We Can't Say We Didn't Know: Dispatches From An Age of Impunity. Sophie will share her experiences reporting from the frontlines of conflicts in Syria, Gaza, Yemen, West Bank and Iraq. Plus Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics, including what the federal government is doing to prevent a pandemic-induced recession.
Bill Bowtell, strategic health policy adviser and Adjunct Professor at UNSW, discusses the Australian government's handling of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, and how it compares to the various approaches other countries are taking. He also discuss the crucial role of state and local governments, and what we can do ourselves. Bill Bowtell was an architect of the Australian government’s successful response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic
Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT came in to chat about the latest in US politics, including the Democratic primaries and the Super Tuesday result which saw Joe Biden overtake Bernie Sanders, and sealed the demise of Elizabeth Warren. Steve Meacher, President of Friends of Leadbeater's Possum Inc and longtime native forest advocate, discussed the imminent logging of large native trees in the Toolangi State Forest. The logging coupe is near one of Victoria’s largest and most loved trees; the Kalatha Giant, which is 400 years old and 65 metres tall. Historian and author Stuart Kells came in to discuss his new book, The Convent. Amy and Stuart explore the fascinating and sometimes controversial history of Melbourne’s much loved Abbotsford Convent.
Historian and author Stuart Kells came in to discuss his new book, The Convent. Amy and Stuart explore the fascinating and sometimes controversial history of Melbourne’s much loved Abbotsford Convent.
Historian Dr Chloe Ward from the EU Studies Centre at RMIT came in to discuss Boris Johnson's Britain and UK politics post-Brexit. Associate Professor Jessica Whyte, a political theorist and philosopher from The University of NSW, traces the origins of neoliberalism from 1947 and recounts how neoliberals hijacked human rights - this is all explored in her critically acclaimed book, The Morals of the Market: Human Rights and the Rise of Neoliberalism. AndAustralian composer and conductor Gordon Hamilton on the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra's World Premiere of Far South, inspired by his voyage to Casey Station, Antarctica onboard the icebreaker Aurora Australis.
Natural historian, ecologist, and environmental photographer Alison Pouliot came in to talk about the fascinating fungi kingdom, how fungi are our phylogenetic older siblings, and her extraordinary life travelling the globe to capture and study all kinds of fungi. Alison believes we need to care about the conservation of fungi as much as any other living organism.
Natural historian, ecologist, and environmental photographer Alison Pouliot came in to talk about the fascinating fungi kingdom, how fungi are our phylogenetic older siblings, and her extraordinary life travelling the globe to capture and study all kinds of fungi. Alison believes we need to care about the conservation of fungi as much as any other living organism. Nick Parry, from the Australian-German Climate & Energy College at The University of Melbourne discusses how and why European nations have been transitioning more easily than Australia to renewable energy and the idea of a low carbon emissions future. He also shares how this affects EU-Australia relations, diplomatically and economically. Plus the Guardian Australia's Luke Henriques-Gomes returned to discuss what we've gleaned so far from recent Disability Royal Commission hearings, and gave us an update on robodebt, and federal welfare policy.
Internationally renowned art conservators Will Shank and Antonio Rava came in to discuss their restoration of the famous Keith Haring mural at the Collingwood Arts Precinct, and the painstaking processes and careful considerations that go into the restoration of major works of art, murals, and street art.
Internationally renowned art conservators Will Shank and Antonio Rava came in to discuss their restoration of the famous Keith Haring mural at the Collingwood Arts Precinct, and the painstaking processes and careful considerations that go into the restoration of major works of art, murals, and street art. Dr Brendan Wintle, Professor of Conservation Ecology at The University of Melbourne and Director of the Threatened Species Recovery Hub comes in to discuss the status of Australia's threatened species after the extreme bushfires this summer, and what ecologists are doing to assess the impacts on biodiversity and wildlife. Plus Maddison Connaughton, Editor of The Saturday Paper, discusses the latest in federal politics.
Associate Professor Kevin Tolhurst, an expert in Fire Ecology and Management from the University of Melbourne, joined Amy to discuss bushfire science and behaviour, what we've learned from previous bushfire inquiries and royal commissions and why we don't need another one, as well as how we can better manage the land in future. Elisabetta Ferrari, Lecturer in Italian Studies at the University of Melbourne comes in to explore the life and work of Italian film director and actor Vittorio De Sica. They discuss mid-twentieth century Italian neorealism and De Sica's films, including Ladri di Bicyclette (BICYCLE THIEVES), which is hailed as one of the greatest movies ever made. An upcoming retrospective of De Sica's work is showing at the Melbourne Cinémathèque. Plus, Ben Eltham, National Affairs Correspondent from New Matilda came in to talk about the latest in federal politics.
Associate Professor Kevin Tolhurst, an expert in Fire Ecology and Management from the University of Melbourne, joined Amy to discuss bushfire science and behaviour, what we've learned from previous bushfire inquiries and royal commissions and why we don't need another one, as well as how we can better manage the land in future.
Philosopher Associate Professor Matthew Sharpe from Deakin University explores the subject of his upcoming lecture, on philosophy and evil which looks at the controversy surround Martin Heidegger’s Black Notebooks and his associations with anti-Semitic and Nazi ideology, as well as the ideas underpinning existentialism, stoicism, and the work of French-Algerian author Albert Camus
Ben Eltham, National Affairs Correspondent for New Matilda came in to discuss federal politics, including the spill of the National Party’s leadership positions, as well as the resignation of the Greens Leader Richard Di Natale from the Senate, and the sports rorts scandal that finally claimed Bridget McKenzie’s Ministership; Philosopher Associate Professor Matthew Sharpe from Deakin University explores the subject of his upcoming lecture, on philosophy and evil which looks at the controversy surround Martin Heidegger’s Black Notebooks and his associations with anti-Semitic and Nazi ideology, as well as the ideas underpinning existentialism, stoicism, and the work of French-Algerian author Albert Camus; plus, Dr Alexandra Phelan, Faculty Research Instructor at Georgetown University’s Center for Global Health Science and Security on the deadly coronavirus in Wuhan that continues to spread across China and the world, and the public health and human rights implications of the outbreak.
Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT came in to discuss the US Senate’s impeachment hearings into President Trump as well as the Democratic presidential candidate race; and Dr Manu Saunders, ecologist at the University of New England and Co-Founder of the Wild Pollinator Count, joined Amy to discuss how your garden is an ecosystem and what you can do to help it and our native animals, insects, and plants thrive.
Director Ella Caldwell and cast members Daniela Farinacci and Hannah Fredericksen from Red Stitch Actors' Theatre joined Amy to talk about their Australian Premiere of the play OIL, a political and historical play on humanity’s troubled relationship with oil and fossil fuels. Professor Alex Collie from Monash University on the health status of those receiving the Disability Support Pension or Newstart, and what needs to change to support the most disadvantaged in our community
Folk-rock musician Carus Thompson came in to discuss how music and storytelling can dismantle political walls and ideology, and to chat about the very topical social and political themes in his new album, Shakespeare Avenue. He also played live in studio. Leading forest and conservation researcher and advocate Professor David Lindenmayer AO shares his views on the Victorian government's recent decision to stop logging old growth native forests immediately and to transition to plantation forest logging over the next 10 years. And Professor Lesley Hughes, climate scientist and former Lead Author in the IPCC’s 4th and 5th Assessment Report, discusses climate change in Australia and its critical relationship to increasing drought and unprecedented bushfires, among other environmental effects.
Folk-rock musician Carus Thompson came in to discuss how music and storytelling can dismantle political walls and ideology, and to chat about the very topical social and political themes in his new album, Shakespeare Avenue. He also played live in studio.
Historian Professor Timothy C. Winegard from Colorado Mesa University, USA explored some fascinating true stories of history from his new book, The Mosquito: A Human History of Our Deadliest Predator.
Nic Maclellan, journalist for Islands Business Magazine in Fiji, discusses politics in the Pacific region, and Australia’s dilemma – having a Pacific policy requires us to have a climate policy. Dr Emma Shortis from RMIT came in to discuss the latest in US politics, including the Turkey-Kurdish conflict in Syria and the US' formal withdrawal from the region, the Democratic primary debates, and the Trump impeachment hearings. Historian Professor Timothy C. Winegard from Colorado Mesa University, USA explored some fascinating true stories of history from his new book, The Mosquito: A Human History of Our Deadliest Predator.
Shaun Walker, a foreign correspondent for the Guardian who spent over a decade reporting on Russian politics from Moscow, came in to discuss his forthcoming Melbourne University lecture, and book, The Long Hangover: Putin’s New Russia and the Ghosts of the Past.
Shaun Walker, a foreign correspondent for the Guardian who spent over a decade reporting on Russian politics from Moscow, came in to discuss his forthcoming Melbourne University lecture, and book, The Long Hangover: Putin’s New Russia and the Ghosts of the Past. Film director Janine Hosking joined Amy to discuss her documentary, The Eulogy, which looks at the life and lonely death of one of the world's greatest pianists, Geoffrey Tozer, and Paul Keating's eulogy for a man he considered to have been abandoned by Australia's arts establishment. Maddison Connaughton, Editor of The Saturday Paper on the latest in federal politics.
Amy speaks with journalist and author Judith Hoare about her new book on a remarkable Australian scientist and doctor who changed the field of psychology forever, The Woman Who Cracked The Anxiety Code: The Extraordinary Life of Dr Claire Weekes.
Amy speaks with journalist and author Judith Hoare about her new book on a remarkable Australian scientist and doctor who changed the field of psychology forever, The Woman Who Cracked The Anxiety Code: The Extraordinary Life of Dr Claire Weekes; Luke Henriques-Gomes from the Guardian Australia came in to discuss what we have learned so far from the Senate inquiry hearings into Newstart - Australia’s jobseeker allowance; and Hong Kong-based lawyer and author Antony Dapiran returns with an in-depth look at the evolving political protests in Hong Kong, and the response from China and the outside world.
Geelong Football Club Vice-President Bob Gartland and Geelong Gallery Director Jason Smith came in to talk about the Geelong Gallery's exhibition, 'The Greatest Team of All—Treasures From the Bob Gartland Collection.' It celebrates 160 years of the Geelong Football Club – the second oldest continuing professional sportsclub in the world. Dr Delia Lin from the University of Melbourne's Asia Institute discusses the 70 year anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the history of modern China, and the Xi Jinping presidency. Plus The Saturday Paper's Editor Maddison Connaughton discussed the latest in federal politics.
Geelong Football Club Vice-President Bob Gartland and Geelong Gallery Director Jason Smith came in to talk about the Geelong Gallery's exhibition, 'The Greatest Team of All—Treasures From the Bob Gartland Collection.' It celebrates 160 years of the Geelong Football Club – the second oldest continuing professional sportsclub in the world.
Amy talks with conservationist and former Australian Greens Leader Bob Brown about climate change, the fight to stop the Adani Carmichael coalmine, and conservation issues in Victoria and Tasmania. The Guardian’s Gabrielle Jackson came in to discuss her new book Pain and Prejudice. Amy and Gabrielle explore systemic sexism in medicine and the historic and current downplaying of women’s pain and health issues. Plus Professor Jane R. Goodall came in to talk about her new book which explores how politics can and should work for the common good.
Amy talks with conservationist and former Australian Greens Leader Bob Brown about climate change, the fight to stop the Adani Carmichael coalmine, and conservation issues in Victoria and Tasmania.
Dr Emma Shortis, from the EU Studies Centre at RMIT came in to give us an update on US and UK politics. Infectious Diseases physician Dr Matt McCarthy joined Amy to discuss his new book, Superbugs: The Race to Stop an Epidemic. Matt is Assistant Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell and a staff physician at New York-Presbyterian Hospital. He is also editor-in-chief of Current Fungal Infection Reports and the author of The Real Doctor Will See You Shortly and Odd Man Out. Plus Warwick Smith, Senior Economist at Per Capita discusses the history of unemployment and welfare policy in Australia and how things have changed.
Infectious Diseases physician Dr Matt McCarthy joined Amy to discuss his new book, Superbugs: The Race to Stop an Epidemic. Matt is Assistant Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell and a staff physician at New York-Presbyterian Hospital. He is also editor-in-chief of Current Fungal Infection Reports and the author of The Real Doctor Will See You Shortly and Odd Man Out.
American historian Professor Deborah E. Lipstadt joined Amy in the studio. They discussed Holocaust denial - past and present, Deborah's experience defending historical truth, as well as the threat of antisemitism today. Deborah's new book is, Antisemitism: Here and Now.
American historian Professor Deborah E. Lipstadt joined Amy in the studio. They discussed Holocaust denial - past and present, Deborah's experience defending historical truth, as well as the threat of antisemitism today. Deborah's new book is, Antisemitism: Here and Now. Plus we discover the power of the portrait with freelance art historian Dr Julie Cotter in her new book, Portraits Destroyed: Power, Ego and History's Vandals. And Guardian Australia journalist Luke Henriques-Gomes reports from the frontline of Australia's social security system, including Robodebt, Newstart and the people left behind.
Investigative journalist Jess Hill discusses her new book, See What You Made Me Do: Power, Control and Domestic Abuse, and the radical rethink we need to confront domestic abuse. Jess and Amy explore the history of approaches to domestic violence and how they have negatively shaped and impacted the way victims are treated and perceived, as well as the current approaches the federal and state governments are taking. And importantly Jess shares with us the solutions that do work. Ensemble members from Red Stitch Actors' Theatre, Sarah Sutherland and Brett Cousins came in to chat about their dark satirical production, Ulster American (written by David Ireland), which captures show business post- #MeToo and the confusion of ‘woke’ men trying to mansplain their positions of power and privilege. Plus Dr Aaron Martin, senior lecturer in political science from Melbourne University on federal politics and the latest news on Brexit.
Investigative journalist Jess Hill discusses her new book, See What You Made Me Do: Power, Control and Domestic Abuse,and the radical rethink we need to confront domestic abuse. Jess and Amy explore the history of approaches to domestic violence and how they have negatively shaped and impacted the way victims are treated and perceived, as well as the current approaches the federal and state governments are taking. And importantly Jess shares with us the solutions that do work.
British philosopher Professor A. C. Grayling returns to Uncommon Sense to discuss his new book, The History of Philosophy.They discuss the vital role of philosophy in society, ancient philosophical traditions and ideas, including stoicism, as well as Antony's key role in the pro-remain campaign in Britain, which seeks to stop Brexit from going ahead. Emeritus Professor John Burns from The University of Hong Kong joins Amy on the ground to explore the key reasons for the escalating protests in the city and airport, as well as the political view from Mainland China. John will be appearing at a Melbourne University forum on the issue this week. Plus Maddison Connaughton, Editor of The Saturday Paper, came in to discuss the latest in federal politics.
British philosopher Professor A. C. Grayling returns to Uncommon Sense to discuss his new book, The History of Philosophy.They discuss the vital role of philosophy in society, ancient philosophical traditions and ideas, including stoicism, as well as Antony's key role in the pro-remain campaign in Britain, which seeks to stop Brexit from going ahead.
Owen Jones, political columnist for the Guardian UK, joins Amy in the studio to discuss the bungling of Brexit, the Tory push to populism and the future of progressive politics in Britain. Editor of The Saturday Paper, Maddison Connaughton comes in to talk about the latest in federal politics. Plus Amelia Young from the Wilderness Society on the Victorian Government’s public consultation into the management of our native forests and what Victorians value most about them and want for their future.
Playwright Rory Godbold and Dr Carolyn Johnston, Senior Research Fellow in law and biotechnology at Melbourne Law School, joined Amy to discuss Victoria's new voluntary assisted dying (VAD) laws that come into effect this week and Rory's new play on VAD at La Mama Theatre, When The Light Leaves.Antony Dapiran, lawyer and author of City of Protest: A Recent History of Dissent in Hong Kong, joined us from Hong Kong to discuss the mass-scale protests against the government's proposed extradition bill, as well as the history of protest in the city. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
Playwright Rory Godbold and Dr Carolyn Johnston, Senior Research Fellow in law and biotechnology at Melbourne Law School, joined Amy to discuss Victoria's new voluntary assisted dying (VAD) laws that come into effect this week and Rory's new play on VAD at La Mama Theatre, When The Light Leaves.
Professor Tonia Eckfeld, Principal Fellow in History at the University of Melbourne and Distinguished Research Fellow at Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi’an, came in to discuss the history of the Qin Dynasty as well as the NGV's exhibition,Terracotta Warriors: Guardians of Immortalityand accompanying works by contemporary Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang. Professor Andrew Walter from the University of Melbourne joined Amy to discuss the latest in Brexit news, as well as the race to become the next leader of the Tory party. Plus Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Professor Tonia Eckfeld, Principal Fellow in History at the University of Melbourne and Distinguished Research Fellow at Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi’an, came in to discuss the history of the Qin Dynasty as well as the NGV's exhibition,Terracotta Warriors: Guardians of Immortalityand accompanying works by contemporary Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang.
American author, climate activist and co-founder of 350.org Bill McKibben speaks about his latest book, Falter: Has the Human Game Begun to Play Itself Out?
Dr Emma Shortis from the RMIT’s EU Centre came in to discuss the latest in US politics, including Robert Mueller’s statement on his investigation into Trump, Russia and the 2016 Presidential election and the rising trade war with China. American author, climate activist and co-founder of 350.org Bill McKibben speaks about his latest book, Falter: Has the Human Game Begun to Play Itself Out? Plus, a federal politics discussion with Meanjin political writer and Publisher of AustralianPolitics.com, Malcolm Farnsworth.
Philosopher and writer Eleanor Gordon-Smith came in to chat about her new book, Stop Being Reasonable,which explores the features and limits of rational argument and what really changes our minds. Dr Chiara De Lazzari from The University of Melbourne discusses the results of the 2019 European Parliamentary elections and what it means for the European Union and member states. Amy and Chiara explore the rise of movements on the left and right of politics, including populism in its many forms, and theDiEM25movement led by former Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on federal politics.
Philosopher and writer Eleanor Gordon-Smith came in to chat about her new book, Stop Being Reasonable,which explores the features and limits of rational argument and what really changes our minds.
Australian political history expert, writer, and publisher of AustralianPolitics.com, Malcolm Farnsworth analyses the significance of the federal election results and what it means for Australia, plus we remember former Prime Minister Bob Hawke; ecologists Dr Georgia Garrard from RMIT and Professor Brendan Wintle from Melbourne University and who is also Director of the Threatened Species Recovery Hub, discuss the conservation status of the Western Grassland Reserve in Melbourne's outer-suburbs which was proposed in 2009 as an "offset" for new housing developments, and why our environmental laws need to be robust enough to prevent the ecological and extinction crises we face; plus Ben Eltham on what's next for the federal Coalition government and the politically wounded federal Australian Labor Party.
Australian political history expert, writer, and publisher of AustralianPolitics.com, Malcolm Farnsworth analyses the significance of the federal election results and what it means for Australia, plus we remember former Prime Minister Bob Hawke.
David Walker, Emeritus Professor at Deakin University, joined Amy in the studio to discuss his new book, Stranded Nation: White Australia in an Asian Region (UWA Press). It provides a nuanced history of Australia's relationship with and perception of Asia in the late 19th century and early-mid 20th century. David and Amy discuss Australia's relationship with China and Japan in some depth.
David Walker, Emeritus Professor at Deakin University, joined Amy in the studio to discuss his new book, Stranded Nation: White Australia in an Asian Region (UWA Press). It provides a nuanced history of Australia's relationship with and perception of Asia in the late 19th century and early-mid 20th century. David and Amy discuss Australia's relationship with China and Japan in some depth. Emma Dawson, Executive Director of Per Capita, came in to discuss the major policy differences between the two major parties at the upcoming federal election, particularly in social security and taxation. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
Renowned philosopher Peter Singer, Professor in Bioethics at Princeton University, joined Amy to discuss utilitarianism and effective altruism, as well as his philosophical arguments on how we should treat animals. We also discussed his seminal work, Animal Liberation, first published in 1975. Peter Singer is appearing as part of Law Week for Lawyers for Animals.
Renowned philosopher Peter Singer, Professor in Bioethics at Princeton University, joined Amy to discuss utilitarianism and effective altruism, as well as his philosophical arguments on how we should treat animals. We also discussed his seminal work, Animal Liberation, first published in 1975. Peter Singer is appearing as part of Law Week for Lawyers for Animals. Historians Ruth Lee and Heather Sheard came in to discuss the brave and tenacious Australian women doctors who set up military hospitals and served on the frontline in World War I. Their book is called, Women To The Front. Plus Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics and the election campaign.
Australias first music thanatologist Peter Roberts plays the harp for the sick and dying. Farshid Akhlaghi has made a film about Peter and the special impact hes had on the lives of many, especially in Geelong. Farshid and Peter joined Amy in the studio to discuss the Australian Premiere ofFrom Music into Silence- screening at Cinema Nova in May. Peter also played his harp for us. Acclaimed actors John Bell and Jessica Tovey came in to chat about Bell Shakespeare's production of Molires classic comedyThe Miserand how theyve brought the new adaptation by Justin Fleming to life! Its showing at the Arts Centre in Melbourne. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda discussed the federal election campaign so far.
Australias first music thanatologist Peter Roberts plays the harp for the sick and dying. Farshid Akhlaghi has made a film about Peter and the special impact hes had on the lives of many, especially in Geelong. Farshid and Peter joined Amy in the studio to discuss the Australian Premiere ofFrom Music into Silence- screening at Cinema Nova in May. Peter also played his harp for us.
Comedians Annie Louey and Diana Nguyen join Amy to discuss their shows at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and the art of comedy; the Grattan Institute's Director of the Budget Policy and Institutional Reform Program, Danielle Wood explains Labor's franking credits policy, the Coalition's attack on the policy, and why Labor is focusing its attention on intergenerational inequality this election; plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the federal election campaign so far.
Historian Dianne Hall on her new co-authored book (with Elizabeth Malcolm),A New History of the Irish in Australia.It transforms our understanding of the Irish migrant experience in Australia. PhotojournalistDarrian Traynor comes in to discuss his exhibition featuring photographs of refugees and displaced people in Gaza, Jordan and Lebanon. Its calledOccupation Displacementand is showing at Sun Studios, South Melbourne. Plus with a federal election about to be called, Ben Eltham comes in to discuss the federal budget and Labors budget reply.
Award-winning comedian and theatre-maker ZoCoombs Marr joined Amy in the studio to discuss the encore season of her acclaimed show,Bossy Bottom,at theMelbourne International Comedy Festival. Zo is also supporting Hannah Gadsby at the Arts Centre.
Emma Shortis from theRMIT's EU Studies Centrecomes in to talk about US politics, including what we know about the Robert Muellers findings on Trump, his staff and Russia's conduct during the presidential election campaign. Award-winning comedian and theatre-maker ZoCoombs Marr joined Amy in studio to discuss the encore season of her acclaimed show,Bossy Bottom,at theMelbourne International Comedy Festival. Zo is also supporting Hannah Gadsby at the Arts Centre. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics and a preview of tonights Federal Budget.
Social researcher and writer Rebecca Huntley talks about a revival of social democracy in Australia and takes the political temperature of the nation in her newQuarterly Essay,'Australia Fair, Listening to the Nation.' Dr Andrew McGregor, lecturer in French Studies from The University of Melbourne explores the work of French New Wave auteur Claude Chabrol ahead of theMelbourne Cinmathque'supcoming season, 'The Unblinking Gaze of Claude Chabrol.' Chabrol has been largely overlooked for his better known colleagues, such as Jean-Luc Godard and Franois Truffaut. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
Social researcher and writer Rebecca Huntley talks about a revival of social democracy in Australia and takes the political temperature of the nation in her newQuarterly Essay,'Australia Fair, Listening to the Nation.
Historian Carolyn Rasmussen discusses her joint biography of Melbourne's progressive power couple of the 20th century, Doris and Maurice Blackburn. Carolyn's book is called,The Blackburns: Private Lives, Public Ambitions.
Historian Carolyn Rasmussen discusses her joint biography of Melbourne's progressive power couple of the 20th century, Doris and Maurice Blackburn. Carolyn's book is called,The Blackburns: Private Lives, Public Ambitions.Andrew Walter, Professor of International Relations at Melbourne University, explores the most recent and dramatic developments in Brexit and the UK parliament. Professor Greg Barton, Chair of Global Islamic Politics at Deakin University, discusses the global rise of right-wing extremism, particularly in Europe, and Christchurch terror attack last week.
Renowned American historian of the Holocaust Emeritus Professor Christopher R. Browning, came in to talk about his lifes work and his most seminal contribution,Ordinary Men: Reserve Police Battalion 101 and the Final Solution in Poland.Amy and Christopherdiscuss the ordinary men from the social democratic leaning city of Hamburg who were drafted into the Reserve Police Battalion 101, and how and why the majority of them participated in the mass killings of about 83,000 Jews in Eastern Europe during World War II.
New York-based journalist and scholar Leta Hong Fincher joined Amy in the studio to talk about rising gender inequality in China, the concept of 'Leftover Women', and her new book, Betraying Big Brother: The Feminist Awakening in China. Renowned American historian of the Holocaust Emeritus Professor Christopher R. Browning, came in to talk about his lifes work and his most seminal contribution, Ordinary Men: Reserve Police Battalion 101 and the Final Solution in Poland. Amy and Christopherdiscuss the ordinary men from the social democratic leaning city of Hamburg who were drafted into the Reserve Police Battalion 101, and how and why the majority of them participated in the mass killings of about 83,000 Jews in Eastern Europe during World War II. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda discussed the latest in federal politics.
Award-winning author and Emeritus Professor of Politics at La Trobe University Judith Brett came in to talk about her book, From Secret Ballot to Democracy Sausage: How Australia Got Compulsory Voting. Amy and Judith discuss the history of Australias democratic system of government, the political philosophy that underpins it, and how Australia got compulsory voting while most other nations did not; Macquarie University historian Associate Professor Michelle Arrow joined Amy to talk about her book, The Seventies: The Personal, the Political and the Making of Modern Australia. She details the great social transformations that took place in Australia during the 1970s - particularly the womens liberation movement, and the push for gay and lesbian rights. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
Macquarie University historian Associate Professor Michelle Arrow joined Amy to talk about her book,The Seventies:The Personal, the Political and the Making of Modern Australia.She detailsthe great social transformations that took place in Australia during the 1970s - particularly the womens liberation movement, and the push for gay and lesbian rights.
Professor David Walker, a historian fromDeakin University,discusses his essay inAustralian Foreign Affairs,'Great Australian divide: The Western outpost faces the Asian Century.' It concerns the history of Australia's relationship with Asia and the surprising origins of the multicultural spirit in 19th century Australia.
Upper house member of Victoria's state Parliament and Leader of the Reason Party Fiona Patten stopped by to talk about what life in the 60th Victorian Parliament is like, and her current policy priorities, including drug law reform. Professor David Walker, a historian from Deakin University, discusses his essay in Australian Foreign Affairs, 'Great Australian divide: The Western outpost faces the Asian Century.' It concerns the history of Australia's relationship with Asia and the surprising origins of the multicultural spirit in 19th century Australia.New Matilda'sNational Affairs Correspondent Ben Eltham discussed the latest in federal politics.
New Zealand politician, economist and feminist legend Marilyn Waring talks about the limits of GDP as a useful economic measure in her latest book,Still Counting: Wellbeing, Womens Work and Policy-making.Tim Norton, Chair of Digital Rights Watch, talks about Australia's controversial encryption legislation and cybersecurity breaches at Parliament. Plus Ben Eltham on federal politics.
New Zealand politician, economist and feminist legend Marilyn Waring talks about the limits of GDP as a useful economic measure in her latest book,Still Counting: Wellbeing, Womens Work and Policy-making.
Tim Flannery, palaeontologist, evolutionary historian and author, joins Amy to discuss his latest book,Europe: A Natural History. Tamara Wood, Affiliate at theKaldor Centre for International Refugee Law,UNSW and Lecturer in Law at the University of Tasmania talks about the international and domestic law that Australia must follow when it comes to those seeking asylum in our country, both by air and by boat. Plus Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Tim Flannery, palaeontologist, evolutionary historian and author, joins Amy to discuss his latest book, Europe: A Natural History.
University of Melbourne Professor Andrew Walter gives us an update on Brexit; why the UK Parliament rejected the first deal, and what comes next.
University of Melbourne Professor Andrew Walter gives us an update on Brexit; why the UK Parliament rejected the first deal, and what comes next. Writer and former Media Advisor to John Howard, Paula Matthewson, discusses whats really holding women back in the Liberal Party in her essay and book,On Merit. Plus Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics, including the key findings of the Banking Royal Commission's final report.
Graeme Davison, urban and social historian and Emeritus Professor at Monash University, joined Amy in the studio to discuss the book he has edited,Hugh Stretton: Selected Writings. Stretton was a prominent public intellectual in Australia and a social democrat, known for his deeply humane approach to social and urban issues. Fundamentally, Stretton wanted to make Australia fairer.
Graeme Davison, urban and social historian and Emeritus Professor at Monash University, joined Amy in the studio to discuss the book he has edited,Hugh Stretton: Selected Writings. Stretton was a prominent public intellectual in Australia and a social democrat, known for his deeply humane approach to social and urban issues. Fundamentally, Stretton wanted to make Australia fairer. Professor Philomena Murray from the University of Melbourne, discussed the European Union and the latest developments on Brexit. She explores the current negotiated agreement and where to from here for British Prime Minister Theresa May who is seeking approval from the Parliament but has delayed a vote on the proposal. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the year in federal politics.
Parisian author and journalist Agns Poirier discussed her book,Left Bank: Art, Passion and the Rebirth of Paris, 1940-50, which explores the intellectual, literary and cultural flourishing during Nazi-occupied Paris and after liberation. Amy and Agns discuss this and the many connections and relationships, sexual and otherwise, that were essential to such an intense and productive period. Notable intellectuals and cultural thinkers include, Albert Camus, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Robert Wright, Janet Flanner, Arthur Koestler, Jacques Jaujard, Jean Paulhan and many more. Patrick Mullins, discusses his new historical biography,Tiberius With A Telephone: The Life and Stories of William McMahon.McMahon is a man regarded by some as Australias worst performing Prime Minister. We ask, has history remembered his political career accurately? Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
Patrick Mullins, discusses his new historical biography,Tiberius With A Telephone: The Life and Stories of William McMahon.McMahon is a man regarded by some as Australias worst performing Prime Minister. We ask, has history remembered his political career accurately?
Parisian author and journalist Agns Poirier discussed her book,Left Bank: Art, Passion and the Rebirth of Paris, 1940-50, which explores the intellectual, literary and cultural flourishing during Nazi-occupied Paris and after liberation. Amy and Agns discuss this and the many connections and relationships, sexual and otherwise, that were essential to such an intense and productive period. Notable intellectuals and cultural thinkers include, Albert Camus, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Robert Wright, Janet Flanner, Arthur Koestler, Jacques Jaujard, Jean Paulhan and many more.
Author Stuart Kells on his book,The Library: A Catalogue of Wonders,which has been shortlisted for the Prime Minister's Literary Awards in the Non-Fiction Category. Amy and Stuart discussed the wonder of books, libraries and the sometimes quirky and passionate behaviours of bibliophiles across history. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the Victorian state election results and the federal implications.
Author Stuart Kells on his book,The Library: A Catalogue of Wonders,which has been shortlisted for the Prime Minister's Literary Awards in the Non-Fiction Category. Amy and Stuart discussed the wonder of books, libraries and the sometimes quirky and passionate behaviours of bibliophiles across history.
Award-winning journalist and ABC legend Kerry O'Brien joined Amy in the studio to discuss his new memoir. They explore the stories behind his greatest interviews, his views on the series of leadership spills in recent times, the changing media landscape, and much more. Meg Labrum, General Manager of Collections and Access at theNational Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA),spoke about their exhibition on an Australian screen icon,Heath Ledger: A Life in Pictures. Plus Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics and a preview of the Victorian state election.
Award-winning journalist and ABC legend Kerry O'Brien joined Amy in the studio to discuss his new memoir. They explore the stories behind his greatest interviews, his views on the series of leadership spills in recent times, the changing media landscape, and much more.
Emma Shortis, PhD Candidate in history at The University of Melbourne, came in to talk about the US mid-term election results that saw a record number of women elected. Amy and Emma also talked US foreign policy and recent international diplomacy issues. Ed Hill, Campaigner at theGoongerah Environment Centre (GECO)in East Gippsland joined Amy in the studio to discuss the old growth native forest logging still occurring in Victoria, the threats to endangered species, and the policy positions of the major state parties on logging, the creation of new national parks, and the conservation. Finally, Dr Erinn Richmond, freshwater ecologist and Research Fellow at Monash University, dropped by to discuss her new research showing the many different pharmaceutical compounds being found in our waterways and in invertebrate species (a key food source for animals like the platypus). The article isDrugs in bugs:
Ed Hill, Campaigner at theGoongerah Environment Centre (GECO)in East Gippsland joined Amy in the studio to discuss the old growth native forest logging still occurring in Victoria, the threats to endangered species, and the policy positions of the major state parties on logging, the creation of new national parks, and the conservation.
Feminist and writer Dr Anne Summers joined presenter Amy Mullins to talk about her adventurous life and prolific career, which is detailed in her new memoirUnfettered and Alive. They spoke aboutthe women's liberation movement, politics, and the unfinished business of feminism; Dr Jo Birch, Curator of theUniversity of Melbourne Herbariumcame in to talk about the wonder of plants and their newly digitised and freely availableonline collection of specimens. Theirs is the largest university herbarium in Australia with over 150,000 plant specimens. Plus New Matilda's National Affairs Correspondent Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Feminist and writer Dr Anne Summers joined presenter Amy Mullins to talk about her adventurous life and prolific career, which is detailed in her new memoirUnfettered and Alive. They spoke aboutthe women's liberation movement, politics, and the unfinished business of feminism
Amy spoke with University of Wrzburg Professor Emeritus Jrgen Tautz on his bookThe Honey Factory: Inside the Ingenious World of Bees. Melbourne University History Professor and Australian Academy of the Humanities President Joy Damousi talked about the federal governments vetoing of 11 ARC humanities research grants and the intrinsic value of the humanities to society. Plus New Matildas National Affairs Correspondent Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Amy spoke with University of Würzburg Professor Emeritus Jürgen Tautz on his book co-authored with Diedrich Steen, The Honey Factory: Inside the Ingenious World of Bees.
Emma Shortis came in to talk about the latest in US politics and the significance of Brett Kavanaughs appointment to the Supreme Court. Actor Barry McGovern and Director Tom Creed joined Amy to discuss their stage adaptation of Samuel Becketts novelWattnow showing at the Melbourne International Arts Festival. Film academic and Co-Programmer of the Melbourne Cinmathque, Eloise Ross, came in to talk about the Cinmathque's new season which highlights the work of trailblazing Hollywood actor and director Ida Lupino, whose multifaceted career spanned the 1930s-1970s.
Triple R alumni, radio presenter and songwriter Greg Champion of the ABCsCoodabeen Championsjoined Amy in the studio to talk about the new published collection of his football songs,The Thing About Football The Songs of Greg Champion, and sang many of them!
Gabrielle Chan came in to talk about her new book,Rusted Off: Why Country Australia is Fed Up.Triple R alumni, radio presenter and songwriter Greg Champion of the ABCsCoodabeen Championsjoined Amy in the studio to talk about the new published collection of his football songs,The Thing About Football The Songs of Greg Champion, and sang many of them! University of Melbourne plant biologist Associate Professor Ed Newbigin spoke about thunderstorm asthma events and the innovative Melbourne Pollen Count project helping Victorians manage their asthma and hay fever. Plus, New Matildas National Affairs correspondent Ben Eltham talks federal politics.
British author Johann Hari joined Amy in the studio to talk about his book,Chasing the Scream, The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs. They discuss drug addiction, what it is, why it happens, and what the new solutions have been in other countries and what they might be in Australia.
British author Johann Hari joined Amy in the studio to talk about his book,Chasing the Scream, The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs. They discuss drug addiction, what it is, why it happens, and what the new solutions have been in other countries and what they might be in Australia. Philosopher Anne Manne came in to talk about mothers and the quest for social justice. Anne argues for a 'universal caregiver' regime as opposed to the current 'universal breadwinner' regime that expects productive citizens to be in full-time paid work and devalues unpaid caring work. Anne's chapter is in the new multi-author book,Dangerous Ideas About Mothers. And Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Philosopher Anne Manne came in to talk about mothers and the quest for social justice. Anne argues for a 'universal caregiver' regime as opposed to the current 'universal breadwinner' regime that expects productive citizens to be in full-time paid work and devalues unpaid caring work. Anne's chapter is in the new multi-author book,Dangerous Ideas About Mothers.
Alex Edney-Browne, PhD Candidate in International Relations at theUniversity of Melbourne, discussed with Amy military drones and their effects on the civilian populations they surveil and attack in war zones and beyond, as well as the effects on drone operators. Alex went to Afghanistan and the US to hear about it firsthand. Nic Maclellan, Correspondent forIslands Business Magazinewas at thePacific Islands Forum 2018in Nauru speaking with and interviewing leaders of the island nations. He shared with Amy what you dont often hear in the Australian media's reporting of this forum the perspective of the Pacific island nations on Australia and our (inadequate) policies on climate change and a range of other economic, environmental, and social issues. American artist, university lecturer, and co-founder ofThe Centre for Artistic Activism, Steve Lambert, talked about his thought-provoking and interactive public installation touring Melbournes CBD, Capitalism Works For Me! True/False, which is showing through the Melbourne Fringe Festival. And regular guest Ben Eltham spoke about the latest in federal politics.
Alex Edney-Browne, PhD Candidate in International Relations at theUniversity of Melbourne, discussed with Amy military drones and their effects on the civilian populations they surveil and attack in war zones and beyond, as well as the effects on drone operators. Alex went to Afghanistan and the US to hear about it firsthand.
Fiona Patten MLC, Founder and Leader of Reason Party (formerly The Sex Party) and parliamentarian, dropped by to discuss her memoir,Sex, Drugs and the Electoral Roll
Barrister Julian Burnside QC joined Amy in the studio to discuss the threats to multiculturalism in Australia, which is the topic of his Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria 7th Annual Walter Lippmann Memorial Oration; Fiona Patten MLC, Founder and Leader of Reason Party (formerly The Sex Party) and parliamentarian, dropped by to discuss her memoir,Sex, Drugs and the Electoral Roll; Don Rothwell, Professor of International Law at the ANU spoke to Amy about the the crucial International Whaling Commission meeting being held in Brazil whereby Japan is seeking to reverse the moratorium on commercial whaling. And Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
Barrister Julian Burnside QC joined Amy in the studio to discuss the threats to multiculturalism in Australia, which is the topic of his Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria 7th Annual Walter Lippmann Memorial Oration
Emma Shortis, PhD candidate in history at the University of Melbourne, joined Amy to discuss the latest in American politics. Karen Middleton, Chief Political Correspondent for The Saturday Paper, discussed her article, 'How [Scott] Morrison played everyone' and what was happening during the Liberal leadership spills. Professor Brendan Wintle, Director of the Threatened Species Recovery Hub came in to talk about the state of threatened species in Australia in comparison to the rest of the world and why Threatened Species Day is so important. Finally, Peter Cochrane, historian and novelist, spoke about his new book on "the story behind the story" of Australia's involvement in World War I, 'Best We Forget: The War for White Australia: 1914-18'.
Peter Cochrane, historian and novelist, spoke about his new book on "the story behind the story" of Australia's involvement in World War I, 'Best We Forget: The War for White Australia: 1914-18'.
Ben Eltham and Amy analysed the two Liberal leadership spills that in the end brought us a new Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Ed Hill, Goongerah Environment Centre's spokesperson talked about the scientific trial (as reported by the ABC) being conducted by VicForests in which it logs native forests in East Gippsland using different techniques and intensities to then measure the threatened Greater Gliders "response". Ed also spoke about the unique biodiversity and tourism value the old growth forests bring and the proposed Emerald Link. Barry Jones, public intellectual and former Minister for Science in the Hawke government, spoke about whats wrong with our political parties and system and he and Malcolm Fraser's big idea to solve it. Acclaimed actors Marta Dusseldorp and Zoe Terakes talk about the Melbourne Theatre Company's production of A Dolls House Part 2, which sees Nora return to the family she left 15 years ago.
Acclaimed actors Marta Dusseldorp and Zoe Terakes talk about the Melbourne Theatre Company's production of A Dolls House Part 2, which sees Nora return to the family she left 15 years ago.
Ben Eltham joined Amy to discuss the latest in federal politics. Richard Todd, Director and Producer of Dying to Live, came into the studio to discuss his documentary about organ and tissue donation in Australia, which is showing at the Melbourne International Film Festival
Dr Karen Jones, Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Melbourne came in to talk about trust - what is it, and how can we trust wisely? Karen will be giving a lecture on Wise Trust as part of the Trust Project Talk Series.
Richard Todd, Director and Producer of Dying to Live, came into the studio to discuss his documentary about organ and tissue donation in Australia, which is showing at the Melbourne International Film Festival
Curators Kirsty Grant and Denise Whitehouse join the program to talk about the latest exhibition at theHeide Museum of Modern Art,'Design For Life: Grant and Mary Featherston', which explores the career of Grant Featherston, a pioneering Australian modernist furniture designer, and his professional and personal partnership with Mary Featherston. David Ritter, CEO ofGreenpeace Australia Pacificjoined Amy to talk about his new book, 'The Coal Truth: The fight to stop Adani, defeat the big polluters and reclaim our democracy'. PlusNew Matilda'sNational Affairs Correspondent Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Author, academic and essayist,Kate Rossmanith joined Amy in the studio to talk about her hybrid memoirSmall Wrongs: How We Really Say Sorry in Love, Life and Law.Jean-Dominique Mellot, Chief Curator of theBibliothque nationale de France (BnF), and specialist in the history of books, publishing, and cultural practices in the 17th and 18th centuries; along with Wallace Kirsop, Adjunct Professor at Monash University came in to talk about theState Library of Victoria's2018 Foxcroft Lecture. Mellot will deliver the lecture, 'Policing the Parisian Book Trade in the Age of Enlightenment.' Plus Plus Ben Eltham came in to discuss the week in federal politics.
Author, academic and essayist,Kate Rossmanith joined Amy in the studio to talk about her hybrid memoirSmall Wrongs: How We Really Say Sorry in Love, Life and Law.
Historian Professor David Christian discusses a shared, secular origin story for humanity in his new book,Origin Story: A Big History of Everything; Dr Anne Rees, historian at La Trobe University, came in to talk about the Australian women expats who found liberation in America; plus Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Historian Professor David Christian discusses a shared, secular origin story for humanity in his new book,Origin Story: A Big History of Everything
Don Driscoll, Professor of Terrestrial Ecology and President of the Ecological Society of Australia joined Amy to talk about the damaging effects of the NSW brumby protection legislation; Eminent Professor Jenny Graves AO, an evolutionary geneticist from La Trobe University came in to discuss the evolution of human sex chromosomes and whether the Y chromosome will disappear altogether; Amanda Dunsmore, Senior Curator, International Decorative Arts & Antiquities, came in to chat about the NGVexhibition,Japonisme: The Birth of Modern Art.
Dr Daniel Chamovitz, Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences at Tel Aviv University spoke with Amy about his recently updated book,What A Plant Knows: A Field Guide to the Senses(via Scribe Publications)
Writer Don Watson joined Amy to discuss his article A Pack Of Bankers published inThe Monthly; Dr Daniel Chamovitz, Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences at Tel Aviv University spoke with Amy about his recently updated book,What A Plant Knows: A Field Guide to the Senses(via Scribe Publications); University of Melbourne Lecturer in French Studies Dr Andrew McGregor and ACMI Film Programmer Roberta Ciabarra came in to discuss the double-bill Jean-Luc Godard season at ACMI featuring,Redoutable (Godard Mon Amour)andLe Mpris (Contempt).
Eminent social researcher and author Hugh Mackay AO joined Amy in the studio to talk about his new book,Australia Reimagined: Towards A More Compassionate, Less Anxious Society.
Eminent social researcher and author Hugh Mackay AO joined Amy in the studio to talk about his new book,Australia Reimagined: Towards A More Compassionate, Less Anxious Society. Author Bri Lee also came in to discuss her moving and courageous memoir,Eggshell Skull, which details her time as a Judge's Associate at the Queensland District Court and then as the complainant in her own case. Plus Ben Eltham, National Affairs Correspondent forNew Matildaon the latest in federal politics.
James Watson, Professor at the University of Queensland and Director of Science and Research at the Wildlife Conservation Society discussed his co-authored research published inSciencejournal, 'One-third of the worlds nature reserves are under threat from humans'; Zoologist and award-winning author Dr Danielle Clode discussed her bookThe Wasp and the Orchid: The Remarkable Life of Australian Naturalist Edith Coleman; Curator of Photography at theNational Gallery of AustraliaAnne OHehir joined the show to talk about the touringexhibition,Diane Arbus: American Portraits, currently showing at theHeide Museum of Modern Art. Plus Tom Greenwell spoke about his article inInside Storyabout the Change The Rules Campaign, 'Were Unions The Victims of Their Own Success?'
Journalist and Adjunct Researcher at Swinburne University of Technology, Nic Maclellan came into the studio to discuss his book,Grappling With The Bomb: Britains Pacific H-Bomb Tests(ANU Press)
Journalist and Adjunct Researcher at Swinburne University of Technology, Nic Maclellan came into the studio to discuss his book,Grappling With The Bomb: Britains Pacific H-Bomb Tests(ANU Press); Writer and Social Philosopher Anne Manne discussed her recent article inThe Monthly, 'Gross Domestic Hoax:How the Australian Economy Rests on Womens Unpaid Work;' plus,New Matilda'sNational Affairs Correspondent Ben Eltham came in to talk about federal politics.
Author Johann Hari spoke about his book,Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression and the Unexpected Solutions
Author Johann Hari spoke about his book,Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression and the Unexpected Solutions.Emma Dawson, Executive Director ofPer Capitadiscussedtheir annual tax survey. UK film director Phil Grabsky chatted about his documentary,David Hockney at the Royal Academy of Arts. Plus,New MatildasBen Eltham delivers the weekly politics wrap.
Conservation Ecologist and Director of theThreatened Species Recovery Hub,ProfessorBrendan Wintlediscussed Australias major impending bird and mammal extinctions and what we must do about it
Author Fiona Harari chatted about her new book,We Are Here: Talking with Australias Oldest Holocaust Survivors
Conservation Ecologist and Director of theThreatened Species Recovery Hub,ProfessorBrendan Wintlediscussed Australias major impending bird and mammal extinctions and what we must do about it; Author Fiona Harari chatted about her new book,We Are Here: Talking with Australias Oldest Holocaust Survivors; Actor Mark Wilson and Director Katy Maudlin discussed their playRight Now,which is showing at Red Stitch Actors Theatre until20th May; plus,New Matilda'sNational Affairs correspondent Ben Eltham delivers the weekly politics wrap.
Award-winning historian and ProfessorEmerita(from ANU)Joan Beaumont, joined Amy to talk about a book she co-edited,Serving Our Country: Indigenous Australians, war, defence and citizenship.Shetalked about the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples participation in the Australian defence force since the Boer War.
Author Stuart Kells and Director of the Melbourne Centre for Corporate Governance and Regulation Professor Ian D. Gow, discussed the surprising history of accounting in their new book,The Big Four: The Curious Past and Perilous Future of the Global Accounting Monopoly.
Award-winning historian and ProfessorEmerita(from ANU)Joan Beaumont, joined Amy to talk about a book she co-edited,Serving Our Country: Indigenous Australians, war, defence and citizenship.Shetalked about the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples participation in the Australian defence force since the Boer War. Author Stuart Kells and Director of the Melbourne Centre for Corporate Governance and Regulation Professor Ian D. Gow, discussed the surprising history of accounting in their new book,The Big Four: The Curious Past and Perilous Future of the Global Accounting Monopoly. Plus,New Matilda'sNational AffairsCorrespondent Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Dr Daniel Halliday, political philosopher at the University of Melbourne joined Amy in the studio for a chat about his new bookTheInheritance of Wealth: Justice, Equality and the Right to Bequeath. Feminist Educator, Writer and Public Speaker Karen Pickering discussed her upcoming Melbourne Free University lecture,The Politics of Menstruation and the Pervasiveness of the Menstrual Taboo;Plus, New Matilda's National Affairs Correspondent Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Dr Daniel Halliday, political philosopher at the University of Melbourne joined Amy in the studio for a chat about his new bookTheInheritance of Wealth: Justice, Equality and the Right to Bequeath.
Ben Eltham, National Affairs Correspondent for New Matilda, came in to discuss federal politics. Photographer Clare Rae and Gareth Syvret, Photographic Archivist at the Socit Jersiaise in the UK, came in to the studio to talk about the exhibitionEntre Nous: Claude Cahun and Clare Rae,now showingat the Centre for Contemporary Photography. Then, musical improvisation troupeSpontaneous Broadwayjoined the show to talk about their latest season at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and improvise some musical songs inspired by listener suggestions. Amy was joined by cast members Gillian Cosgriff and Sally Bourne, with pianist/composer John Thorn and MC Russell Fletcher.
Amy talks toBen Eltham about federal politics. Mark McKenna, Professor of History at The University of Sydney joined Amy in the studio to discuss his Quarterly EssayMoment of Truth: History and Australia's Future Lastly, Dr Mary Tomsic and Dr Jordy Silverstein, Historians at The University of Melbourne came in to talk with Amy about their AFL history blog,History From the CentreSquarehttps://centresquarehistory.com/
(feature)Mark McKenna, Professor of History at The University of Sydney joined Amy in the studio to discuss his Quarterly EssayMoment of Truth: History and Australia's Future
Amy was joined in the studio by former President of the Australian Human Rights Commission Emeritus Professor Gillian Triggs who came in to talk about her upcoming lecture at The University of Melbourne, 'The Decline of Parliamentary Democracy in a Post-Truth Era.' Barack Obamas former Senior Writer and Deputy Director of Messaging, Pat Cunnane, joined Amy to chat about his forthcoming book, ' West Winging It: An Un-Presidential Memoir' (out via Affirm Press), ahead of his talk at The Wheeler Centre. Plus, New Matilda politics correspondent Ben Eltham came in to discuss federal politics.
Amy was joined in the studio by former President of the Australian Human Rights Commission Emeritus Professor Gillian Triggs who came in to talk about her upcoming lecture at The University of Melbourne, 'The Decline of Parliamentary Democracy in a Post-Truth Era'.
Barack Obamas former Senior Writer and Deputy Director of Messaging, Pat Cunnane, joined Amy to chat about his forthcoming book, ' West Winging It: An Un-Presidential Memoir' (out via Affirm Press), ahead of his talk at The Wheeler Centre.
US film directorJennifer Breaspoke toAmyabout her Oscar-shortlisted documentaryUnrest,which chronicles her experience andthe experiences of others who have gone "missing" the sufferers of the significantly debilitating illness Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), aka "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome". Activist and ME suffererAnna Kerr,EmergeCEODr Heidi NichollsandBio21 InstituteresearcherDrChris Armstrong thenjoinedAmyto talk about an upcoming screening ofUnrestat RMIT, the situation for Australians with ME, and the research being conducted to uncover the biological mechanisms behind it.
New York Times journalist and author Jim Robbins came in to the studio to talk about his latest book, The Wonder of Birds and his upcoming talk at the Wheeler Centre.
US film director Jennifer Brea spoke to Amy about her Oscar-shortlisted documentary Unrest, which chronicles her experience and the experiences of others who have gone "missing" the sufferers of the significantly debilitating illness Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), aka "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome". Activist and ME sufferer Anna Kerr, Emerge CEO Dr Heidi Nicholls and Bio21 Institute researcher Dr Chris Armstrong then joined Amy to talk about an upcoming screening of Unrest at RMIT, the situation for Australians with ME, and the research being conducted to uncover the biological mechanisms behind it. New York Times journalist and author Jim Robbins came in to the studio to talk about his latest book, The Wonder of Birds and his upcoming talk at the Wheeler Centre. And Ben Eltham chatted about the latest in federal politics.
On this specialUncommon Sensepodcast, author and speakerRachel Botsman talked with host Amy Mullinsabout her latest bookWhoCan You Trust? How Technology Brought Us Together and Why It Could Drive Us Apart.
This week onUncommon Sense, Emma Shortis, Fox International Fellow at Yale talked to host Amy Mullinsabout the latest in American politics. Author and speakerRachel Botsman talked about her latest bookWhoCan You Trust? How Technology Brought Us Together and Why It Could Drive Us Apart. Film directorYariv Mozertalked about his documentaryBen-Gurion, Epilogue.Plus,New Matilda'sBen Elthamdiscussed the latest in federal politics.
On this special Uncommon Sense podcast, Linda Jakobson, Founding Director and CEO ofChina Matters, joined Amy Mullins to talk about her article inAustralian Foreign Affairs'What Does China Want? Xi Jinping and the Path to Greatness'.
This week on Uncommon Sense, Linda Jakobson, Founding Director and CEO ofChina Matters, joined host Amy Mullins to talk about her article inAustralian Foreign Affairs'What Does China Want? Xi Jinping and the Path to Greatness'. Professor Brendan Wintle fromThe University of Melbournecame in to talk about the biggest threat to Australia's native species habitat loss (often caused by land clearing). Actor Joe Petruzzi chatted with Amy about his role in the one-hander play atRed Stitch Actors' Theatre,'American Song', by playwright Joanna Murray-Smith. Plus, New Matilda's Ben Eltham discussed the latest in federal politics.
On this specialUncommon Sense podcastwith AmyMullins, founding CEO of ClientEarth, James Thornton, spokeabout his new book of the same title, sharing his story from US litigator to UK solicitor representing the most important client of all the Earth.
This week on Uncommon Sense with AmyMullins, founding CEO of ClientEarth, James Thornton, spokeabout his new book of the same title, sharing his story from US litigator to UK solicitor representing the most important client of all the Earth. Actors Gareth Davies and Imogen Sage, who play brother and sister in the MTCs production of Nol Coward'sHay Fever, came into the studio to discuss the show. Plus New Matilda's National Affairs correspondent Ben Eltham was in to chat about the week in federal politics.
On this specialUncommon Sense podcast, host Amy Mullins talks toauthor George Megalogenis on the history and current state of play of Australian politics and how the parties have shifted ideologically in different ways over time, as well as his participation in the The Festival of Questions at the The Wheeler Centre.
This week onUncommon Sense,Tim Wright, Asia-Pacific Director of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons spoke tohost Amy Mullinsabout their Nobel Peace Prize win; Author George Megalogeniscame in to speak on the history and current state of play of Australian politics and how the parties have shifted ideologically in different ways over time, as well as his participation in the The Festival of Questions at the The Wheeler Centre;and Amy spoke toNaomi Cass and Pippa Milne, co-curators of 'An Orthodox Flow of Images', an exhibitionat theCentre for Contemporary Photography, part of theMelbourne Festival. PlusCrikey's deputy editorSally Whyteon the latest in federal politics.
On this special Uncommon Sense podcast,David Vine, Associate Professor in Anthropology at American University, Washington D.C., spoke to host Amy Mullins about his bookBase Nation: How U.S. Military Bases Abroad Harm America and the World. He was in Melbourne for the Independent and Peaceful Australia Network's National Conference.
This week on Uncommon Sense David Vine, Associate Professor in Anthropology at American University, Washington D.C., spoke to host Amy Mullins about his bookBase Nation: How U.S. Military Bases Abroad Harm America and the World. He was in Melbourne for the Independent and Peaceful Australia Network's National Conference. Judith Brett, Emeritus Professor of Politics at La Trobe University, discussed her new book,The Enigmatic Mr Deakin, which details the curious life and charismatic character of Australia's second Prime Minister, Alfred Deakin. Plus, New Matilda's National Affairs Correspondent, Ben Eltham came in to talk federal politics.
This week on Uncommon Sense withAmy Mullins,forest lawyer Danya Jacobs fromEnvironmental Justice Australiacame in to discuss native forest logging in Victoria and the concerns for threatened species in the logging areas, as well as the upcoming National Threatened Species Day. Amy also spoke with Dutch historian and author Rutger Bregman about his new book,Utopia for Realists.Professor Tom Griffiths from the ANU came in to talk about the craft of history in the age of fake news and his Ernest Scott Prize winning bookThe Art of Time Travel: Historians and Their Craft. Plus New Matildas political correspondent, Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
In this special Uncommon Sense podcast, Professor Tom Griffiths from the ANU came in to talk about the craft of history in the age of fake news and his Ernest Scott Prize winning bookThe Art of Time Travel: Historians and Their Craft with hostAmy Mullins.
For this special Uncommon Sensepodcast, host Amy Mullins spoke with Dutch historian and author Rutger Bregman about his new book,Utopia for Realists.
This week on Uncommon Sense,American science writerJennifer Ackermanjoined Amy Mullins in the studio to talk about her new bookThe Genius of Birds;Dr Richard Denniss,Chief Economist atThe Australia Institute spoke about his essay in The Monthly,Canberra Needs A Watchdog;Deputy Editor-in-Chief ofDer SpiegelDirk Kurbjuweit chatted aboutthe upcoming Bundestag elections in Germany; andNew Matildas political correspondentBen Eltham, discussed the week in federal politics.
In this special podcast of Uncommon Sense with Amy Mullins, American science writerJennifer Ackermanjoined Amy in the studio to talk about her new bookThe Genius of Birds.
This week on Uncommon Sense with Amy Mullins, New Matilda politics correspondent Ben Eltham came in to talk federal politics, and Dr Ben White from The University of Glasgow discussed the history of humanitarian evacuations and the lessons for us now. Dr Jordy Silverstein and Dr Mary Tomsic from The University of Melbourne were on the program to discuss their latest article in Overland,Marriage Stinks,which explores the history of marriage and the potentially harmful effects of the debates on both sides regarding the marriage-equality postal survey. Curator Rebecca Najdowski and US-based artist Eric William Caroll chatted about their exhibitionA Field Guide to The Starsat the Ballarat International Foto Biennale.
This week on Uncommon Sense with Amy Mullins, film director Jennifer Peedom spoke about her breathtaking documentary, Mountain screening at the Melbourne International Film Festival. Australian writer and philosopher Professor Raimond Gaita joined Amy in the studio to talk about the lecture series he's hosting at The University of Melbourne, The Intelligentsia in The Age of Trump. NGV Assistant Director, Dr Isobel Crombie chatted about Brave New World, an exhibition she co-curated exploring the modernist artistic styles and themes explored in Australia during the 1930s. Plus New Matilda's Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
In thisspecialUncommon Sensepodcast withAmy Mullins, NGV Assistant Director,Dr Isobel Crombiechatted aboutBrave New World, an exhibition she co-curated exploring the modernist artistic styles and themes explored in Australia during the 1930s.
This week on Uncommon Sense, New Matildas Ben Eltham chatted to host Amy Mullins on the latest in federal politics, and Amber Jamieson, Breaking News Reporter for Buzzfeed US dialled in from New York to talk American politics. Professor David Lindenmayer from the Fenner School of Environment and Society at the ANU discussed the unique and critically endangered Mountain Ash forests and their ecosystem in Victoria's Central Highlands, and Alexandra Heller-Nicholas, film critic and co-editor of Senses of Cinema spoke about her Overland essay on the history of women's film criticism in Australia.
In this special Uncommon Sense podcast, ProfessorDavid Lindenmayerfrom the Fenner School of Environment and Society at the ANU discussedthe unique and critically endangered Mountain Ash forests and their ecosystem in Victoria's Central Highlands with host Amy Mullins.
This week onUncommon Sense, we have three fantastic interviews with our hostAmy Mullins includingNew MatildasBen Elthamon the latest in federal politics. Plus,Nick Hornejoined Amy to talk about his father and public intellectual, the late Donald Horne, best known for his bookThe Lucky Country.Arange of Donald's work is featured in a new bookDonald Horne: Selected Writings.Also,DirectorElla Caldwelland actorBen Prendergastcame in to talk about their new playIncognitoat Red Stitch Actors Theatre, which explores the mysteries of the human brain.
On Uncommon Sense this week,Nick Hornejoined host Amy Mullins to talk about his father and public intellectual, the late Donald Horne, best known for his bookThe Lucky Country.Arange of Donald's work is featured in a new bookDonald Horne: Selected Writings.
This week on Uncommon Sense we have four excellent interviews, conducted by our host Amy Mullins:
New MatildasBen Elthamon the latest in federal politics.
Radiation oncologist andCEO of Tobacco Free PortfoliosDr Bronwyn Kingdiscussed the movement she's led to get superannuation funds to divest from tobacco.
Professor John Keane from the University of Sydneyjoined Amy in the studio to talk about the new despotism of the 21st century.
Geoffrey Maslenspoke about his new book,An Uncertain Future: Australian Birdlife in Danger.
In this specialUncommon Sensepodcast, radiation oncologist andCEO of Tobacco Free PortfoliosDr Bronwyn Kingdiscussed with Amy the movement she's led to get superannuation funds to divest from tobacco.
In this specialUncommon Sensepodcast,Professor John Keane from the University of Sydneyjoined Amy in the studio to talk about the new despotism of the 21st century.
For this week's feature interview philosopherClive Hamiltonjoined our host Amy Mullins in the studio to talk about his new book,Defiant Earth: The Fate of Humans in the Anthropocene,and how human activity has created a new and dangerous epoch.
This week on Uncommon Sense we have four excellent interviews, conducted by our host Amy Mullins:
New Matilda's Ben Eltham on the latest in federal politics.
Australian stencil artist Luke Cornish (E.L.K) chatted about his latest body of work,Zero To The Left, inspired by his recent trips to Syria and on display at the Metro Gallery in Armadale.
Philosopher Clive Hamilton joined Amy in the studio to talk about his new book,Defiant Earth: The Fate of Humans in the Anthropocene,and how human activity has created a new and dangerous epoch.
Curator Lesley Harding spoke aboutCall of the Avant-Garde: Constructivism and Australian Art, an exhibition at the Heide Museum of Modern Art, running from5 July 8 October.
This week on Uncommon Sense we have four excellent interviews, conducted by our host Amy Mullins:
Ben Eltham fromNew Matildaon the latest in federal politics
Writer Tom Greenwell joined Amy to discuss hisInside Storyessay, 'Journalism Is In Peril. Can Government Help?' They talked about press subsidies overseas and if we can adopt similar policies here in Australia.
Professor Pat Dudgeon chatted about a book she has co-edited, 'Us Women, Our Ways, Our World' (Magabala Books) a collection of writings on women and Aboriginal identity.
Michelle Mountain, Program Manager at theCentre for Contemporary Photographyspoke about the expressive, abstract works, 'Tanztee and Erbgericht' by Berlin-based photographer Andrea Grtzner currently on display atCCP.
Filmmaker Jolyon Hoff and photographer Muzafar Ali joined Amy in the studio to talk about The Staging Post, their documentary that follows Ali and fellow refugees awaiting UNHCR processing at Cisarua, Indonesia. The film showcases the strength and agency of the refugee community who created the Cisarua Refugee Learning Centre.
This week on Uncommon Sense we have four excellent interviews, conducted by our host Amy Mullins:
Sally Whytedeputy editor of Crikeyon the latest in federal politics
Inside Story contributing editor Peter Mares discusses his essay 'Surfing With Singer' on the concept of effective altruism and the ways we evaluate charitable giving.
Filmmaker Jolyon Hoff and photographer Muzafar Ali joined Amy in the studio to talk about The Staging Post, their documentary that follows Ali and fellow refugees awaiting UNHCR processing at Cisarua, Indonesia. The film showcases the strength and agency of the refugee community who created the Cisarua Refugee Learning Centre.
Freelance writer Sophie Cunningham spoke about her essay Biyala Stories, which won the 2017 Nature Writing Prize.
This week on Uncommon Sense Dr Richard Denniss, Chief Economist at The Australia Institute spoke to Amy about his essay in The Monthly called 'Grandfathering the Australian Dream'.
This week on Uncommon Sense we have four excellent interviews, conducted by our host Amy Mullins:
Ben Eltham,from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
Belkis Wille from Human Rights Watch joined us to talk about the human rights concerns in Iraq.
Actors Dan Spielman and Shareena Clanton came in to talk about the Melbourne Theatre Company's latest production, Macbeth.
Dr Richard Denniss, Chief Economist at The Australia Institute spoke about his essay in The Monthly called 'Grandfathering the Australian Dream'.
This week on Uncommon Sense we have four excellent interviews, conducted by our host Amy Mullins:
Ben Eltham,from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
Professor Andrew Walter, Interim Director of the Melbourne School of Government was in the studio talking about the UK election campaign and policies in the lead up to election day this Thursday.
Dr John Falzon, CEO of the St Vincent de Paul Society joined Amy to re-imagine what the 'good' society looks like ahead of the Progress 2017 Conference in Melbourne.
Dr Sarah Boulter, Research Fellow at the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility discussed what farmers, the broader community and governments can do to reduce Australia's agricultural emissions and land clearing.
The feature interview this week is withProfessor Andrew Walter, Interim Director of the Melbourne School of Government. He was in the studio talking about the UK election campaign and policies in the lead up to election day this Thursday.
Professor Robert Jensen from School of Journalism at the University of Texas at Austin joined Amy in the studio to talk about his new book The End of the Patriarchy: Radical Feminism for Men.
This week on Uncommon Sense we have four excellent interviews, conducted by our host Amy Mullins:
Ben Eltham, National Affairs Correspondent for New Matilda on the week that was in federal politics.
Emma Shortis, PhD candidate at the University of Melbourne's School of Historical and Philosophical Studies spoke about the latest in Trump's America and his travels abroad.
Professor Robert Jensen from School of Journalism at the University of Texas at Austin joined Amy in the studio to talk about his new book The End of the Patriarchy: Radical Feminism for Men.
Professor Philip Seddon, from the Department of Zoology at the University of Otago in New Zealand discussed the ecology and ethics of de-extinction (the emerging scientific practice of reviving extinct species).
This week on Uncommon Sense we have four excellent interviews, conducted by our host Amy Mullins.
Dr Jack Pascoe, Conservation and Research Manager at the Cape Otway Conservation and Ecology Centre told us about his work to save the koalas, tiger quolls and eucalypt forests along the Great Ocean Road.
Warwick Smith, Research Economist at Per Capita discussed the history of unemployment in Australia, based on his new report.
Professor Adrienne Stone, from the Melbourne Law School discussed the proposals being discussed at the four-day summit in Uluru on constitutional recognition for indigenous Australians.
Ben Eltham from New Matilda on the latest in federal politics.
Our feature interview for this week is with Warwick Smith, Research Economist at Per Capita. He discussed with Amy the history of unemployment in Australia, based on his new report.
This week's feature interview on Uncommon Sense was with renowned political journalist and author Laura Tingle. She joined Amy to discuss her new book, 'In Search of Good Government', and talks about Malcolm Turnbull in power.
Amy Mullins explores the minds of another four interview guests this week on Uncommon Sense.
New Matilda's National Affairs Correspondent Ben Eltham dropped by to analyse the federal budget.
Renowned political journalist and author Laura Tingle joined Amy to discuss her new book, 'In Search of Good Government', and talks Turnbull in power.
Author Fiona Wright spoke about her essay in the Griffith Review 'Measuring imperfection: the limits of the quantified self'.
Naomi Cass, Director of the Centre for Contemporary Photography and artist Clare Rae came in to discuss the CCP's 2017 fundraising exhibition, 'The Witching Hour.'
This week on Uncommon Sense our host Amy Mullins speaks with four very interesting people about politics, arts and conservation. Our regular guest Ben Eltham, National Affairs Correspondent for New Matilda on federal politics and the upcoming federal budget. British conservationist and former Director-General of the National Trust Dame Fiona Reynolds spoke about her new book The Fight For Beauty: Our Path To A Better Future
University of Melbourne political scientist Dr Maryse Helbert discussed the French presidential election results and what's next for Emmanuel Macron.
Malthouse Theatre's Artistic Director Matthew Lutton and actor Naomi Rukavina chat about their production of the Australian classicAway.
This week's special interview on Uncommon Sense is with British conservationist and former Director-General of the National Trust Dame Fiona Reynolds. She speaks with Amy about her new book The Fight For Beauty: Our Path To A Better Future.
This week on Uncommon Sense we have four interviews covering politics, history and law, hosted by the magnificent Amy Mullins. Ben Eltham from New Matilda joins us for his regular segment on the latest in federal politics.
From New York, Amber Jamieson took us through President Trump's first 100 days in office.
The ANU Crawford School of Public Policy's Adjunct Professor Allan Gyngell AO discussed his book Fear of Abandonment: Australia in the World Since 1942, which details the history of Australia's foreign policy.
Erin O'Donnell, Senior Fellow at the Melbourne Law School shared the evolving legal status of nature across the world.
This week's feature interview on Uncommon Sense is the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy's Adjunct Professor Allan Gyngell AO, discussing his new book detailing the history of Australia's foreign policy: Fear of Abandonment: Australia in the World Since 1942.
We have a great selection of interviews this week on this special Anzac Day edition of Uncommon Sense, hosted by Amy Mullins. Independent historian Vicken Babkenian and the University of Melbourne's Professor Joy Damousi joined Amy to discuss their contributions to The Honest History Book the intersection of the Gallipoli landing and the beginning of the Armenian genocide, as well as Australian women in leadership during the Great War. Bell Shakespeare actors Meredith Penman and James Evans came in to talk about their critically acclaimed show at the Arts Centre Richard 3. Tim Wright, Asia-Pacific Director of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons was in New York recently at the UN Conference to Negotiate a Legally Binding Instrument to Prohibit Nuclear Weapons and shared just exactly what happened. And of course we are joined by Ben Eltham as always, National Affairs Correspondent for New Matilda with the latest in federal politics.
Our feature interview this week is with archaeologist and curator Dr. Andrew Jamieson, speaking about his latest exhibition atThe Ian Potter Museum of Art, Syria: Ancient History Modern Conflict.
Our feature interview this week is with British philosopher and author A.C. Grayling on the origins and future of humanism, the age of genius and his new book, War: An Enquiry.
This week's episode of Uncommon Sense, hosted by Amy Mullins. Ben Eltham, National Affairs Correspondent for New Matilda on the latest in federal politics as always. British philosopher and author A.C. Grayling on the origins and future of humanism, the age of genius and his new book, War: An Enquiry. Photographer Harry Borden joins us to look back at 10 years of photographs and interviews he conducted to create Survivor: A Portrait of the Survivors of the Holocaust. Associate Professor Monica Gagliano from the University of Western Australia tells us about her cutting edge research into the behaviour of plants and their ability to 'listen to' and identify real sources of water.
This week's episode of Uncommon Sense, hosted by Amy Mullins. Laura Tingle, Political Editor for theAustralian Financial Reviewcalled in from Canberra to discuss the latest in federal politics. Archaeologist and curatorDr Andrew Jamiesonspokeabout his latest exhibition atThe Ian Potter Museum of Art, Syria: Ancient History Modern Conflict. Mark Isaacson his newly updated bookThe Undesirables: Inside Nauru, whichgives a first-person account of working at Nauru with asylum seekers.
Victorian College of the Arts Senior FellowDr Janine Burkeanswers the question, has anything changed for female artists in Australia?
Our feature interview this week is with NGV curator Dr. Angela HessonShe talks with Amy about the NGV International's latest exhibition: Love: Art of Emotion 1400-1800.
This weeks episode of Uncommon Sense features four very interesting interviews hosted by the amazing Amy Mullins NGV curator Dr Angela Hesson talks with Amy about the NGV International's latest exhibition Love: Art of Emotion 1400-1800. Per Capita Executive Director Emma Dawson joins us to share how a four-day work week could succeed in Australia. Professor Andrew Walter, Interim Director of the Melbourne School of Government comes in to talk everything Brexit. Ben Eltham, National Affairs Correspondent for New Matilda joins us for our weekly segment on federal politics.
Our feature interview this week is with Eloise Ross, co-programmer of theMelbourne Cinmathque, discussing their retrospective on feminist 1930s Hollywood film director Dorothy Arzner.
This week, our regular guest Ben Elthamjoins Amy to discuss the latest in federal politics. Amber Jamiesondials in from New York to talk Trump's America. Mark Wakehamjoins us in the studio to delve into the energy and environmental implications of the Hazelwood coal plant closure. Eloise Ross, co-programmer of theMelbourne Cinmathquediscusses their retrospective on feminist 1930s Hollywood film director Dorothy Arzner.
Dan Cassjoined Amy in the studio to discuss the rise and democratisation of solar energy. Middle East expertMarika Sosnowskiand photojournalistDarrian Traynorshared their experience visiting Jordan to document the plight of Syrian refugees. CuratorKendrah Morganchatted to us about theCharles Blackman: Schoolgirlsexhibition at the Heidi Museum of Modern Art. Ben Elthamalso joins us as usual with the latest in federal politics.
This week's feature interview has curatorKendrah Morgan chatting to us about theCharles Blackman: Schoolgirlsexhibition at the Heidi Museum of Modern Art.
This week on Uncommon Sense our host Amy Mullins speaks about politics, history and environmentalism, with some very interesting guests. Regular guest Ben Eltham joins us to discuss the latest in federal politics and the WA election. Sarah Brugler, lawyer at Environmental Justice Australia, comes in to talk about the proposed reforms to Victoria's Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act. We meet the women behind the Invisible Farmer Project; Museums Victoria curator Catherine Forge and Fish Creek farmer Amelia Bright. We then had a chat with film director Eoin Hahessy on his documentary, Michael, They've Shot Them, which details the impact of Ireland's 1916 Easter Rising in Australia.
Four interesting interviews this week on Uncommon Sense, hosted by Amy Mullins. We start the show as usual with a segment on federal politics with New Matilda's Ben Eltham. Feminist writer Amy Gray talks with our Amy about the concept of 'self-care' being a radical act. We have a chat with lawyer Alan Yang and Rebecca - the mother of transgender child Korra - about the legal barriers facing transgender kids seeking hormone therapy. To finish the show we have assistant curator of the NGA Lara Nicholls and artist Elizabeth Gower discussing the NGA's travelling exhibition Abstraction: Celebrating Australian Women Abstract Artists. Now showing at Geelong Gallery.
For our feature interview this week we have assistant curator of the NGA Lara Nicholls and artist Elizabeth Gower discussing the NGA's travelling exhibition Abstraction: Celebrating Australian Women Abstract Artists. Now showing at Geelong Gallery.
This week's feature interview is with a musical guest - singer/songwriter Carus Thompson. Carus talks with Amy about his poignant new album Island, his stances on some social and political issues, and to top it all off performs some acoustic renditions of his music live in studio.
This week on Uncommon Sense our host Amy Mullins speaks to four guests about politics, arts, music and environmentalism. First up we had our regular politics segment with the wonderful Ben Eltham. Dr. Clare Wright chatted with us about the real Lola Montez - the most infamous woman of the Gold Rush era. We had a special intreview and musical performance by Carus Thompson live in studio, playing acoustic versions of songs on his new album. To finish the show we talked on the phone with Professor David Lindenmayer AO from ANU, about the proposed Great Forest National Park in Victoria and the dire consequences of logging in the Central Highlands.
This week's feature interview is with former US Republican Congressman Bob Inglis who is the founder of RepublicEN.org. He has an in depth discussion with Amy on his conversion to climate action and his advocacy for a carbon tax in the US.
This week on Uncommon Sense our presenter Amy Mullins conducts four interviews about politics, academia and history.
Ben Eltham starts the show with his regular segment on federal politics.
Professor Sheila Fitzpatrick comes in to discuss the centenary of the Russian revolution.
Former US Republican Congressman and the founder of RepublicEN.org Bob Inglis on his conversion to climate action and advocacy for a carbon tax in the US.
Social researcher and author Rebecca Huntley talks with Amy about her book Still Lucky: Why You Should Feel Optimistic About Australia and Its People.
This week's feature interview is with Director John Pilger, who comes in to talk with Amy about his recent documentary The Coming War On China, now screening at Cinema Nova.
This week's episode of Uncommon Sense sees our host Amy Mullins conduct four very interesting interviews on the subjects of arts, politics and academia. Ben Eltham comes in for his usual segment on federal politics. Author and academic Dr Cordelia Fine chats with Amy about her new book Testosterone Rex: Unmaking The Myths of Our Gendered Minds.
Director Aidan Fennessy and actor Peter Houghton of Red Stitch Theatre discuss their play about political corruption, The Ways Things Work. John Pilger has an in depth discussion with Amy about his new documentary The Coming War On China.
This week's feature interview is with Barry Dickins, an Australian playwright and author. He joins Amy in the studio to chat with her about his new book - Last Words: The Hanging of Ronald Ryan - Unanswered Questions 50 Years On.
This week our host Amy Mullins as usual brings us four interesting interviews discussing politics, media and current issues on Uncommon Sense. Ben Eltham, our regular guest comes in to discuss Australian federal politics followed immediately by reporter from The Guardian US Amber Jamieson, as nowadays Australian and US politics are even more intrinsically linked. Social researcher and author Hugh Mackay AO talks with Amy about the importance of community, and his UNSW Gandhi Oration The State of The Nation Starts In Your Street. Barry Dickins, Australian playwright and author joins Amy in the studio to chat with Amy about his new book - Last Words: The Hanging of Ronald Ryan - Unanswered Questions 50 Years On.
In this week's special interview Amy speaks with German film director Lars Kraume about his 2015 film The People vs. Fritz Bauer, the true story of the German Jewish attorney general behind the capture of Adolf Eichmann.
This week our host Amy Mullins speaks with four very interesting people Ben Eltham joins us for his weekly segment on federal politics, today discussing the intersection of Australian politics with US politics.
Author, poet and essayist Fiona Wright speaks with us about her essay in the Lifted Brow - There's No Dirt In My Food.
German film director Lars Kraume calls in to talk with Amy about his film The People vs Fritz Bauer, the true story of the the German Jewish attorney general behind the capture of Adolf Eichmann
Chief economist of the Australia Institute Dr. Richard Dennis has a chat with Amy about his essay in the Monthly looking at the SA government's proposed nuclear waste dump - The Big Dump.
Amy Mullins returns for another episode of Uncommon Sense with four very interesting interviews. Our regular guest Ben Eltham from New Matilda comes in to chat about the current state of federal politics.
Amber Jamieson from the Guardian US calls in to fill us in on US politics this week. The Curator at the Heide Museum of Modern Art Lesley Harding talks with Amy about their Making Modernism exhibition, which brings together the work of American icon Georgia O'Keeffe with modernist masterpieces by pioneering Australian artists Margaret Preston and Grace Cossington Smith. Mark Wakeham, the CEO of Environment Victoria on the State Government's recently announced reforms to the EPA Vic.
Amy Mullinshosts the first ever episode of Uncommon Sense,
A weekly conversation about politics and current events, international affairs, history, art, books, and the natural world, to illuminate the issues faced by society and explore them in new ways. This week we have four feature interviews to share with you Ben Eltham, national affairs correspondent for New Matilda joins us tohave a chatabout this week in federal politics.
Amber Jamieson, reporter for The Guardian US, calls in to speak about the upcoming Trump inauguration and the state of US politics.
Author and conservationistPeter Wohllebencalls in from his hometown in Germany to discuss his new bookThe Hidden Life of Trees.
Finally we haveElaine Pearson, the executive director of Human Rights Watch, Australia, who has a conversation with Amy about refugees in Australia and globally.
A special extended interview from the January 17th episode of Uncommon Sense with Amy Mullins
Peter Wohlleben, forester, conservationist and author of the new book The Hidden Life of Trees calls in from his hometown in Germany to discuss forestry and environmental conservation, along with the subject matter of his book.