
The Conversation Hour
Expect engaging discussions with real people and inspiring stories connecting communities across Victoria, on The Conversation Hour with Richelle Hunt and Jonathon Kendall.
Latest episodes

May 16, 2025 • 48min
Celebrating women in cricket
Cricket commentator and former international cricketer Mel Jones OAM was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Sport award this week at the Victorian Sports Awards, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with Mel about her work in supporting women in the game. Also, in this edition, we discuss injuries caused by energy based cosmetic treatments such as laser treatments, we also delve into the delicate terrain of when friendships get romantic.

May 15, 2025 • 50min
When a seabird's body crunches with the sound of plastic
Record amounts of plastic have been discovered in the seabirds of Lord Howe Island, so much so that you can hear their bodies crunch. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk what it would take to cut back plastic use. Plus, we look at the new national guidelines for the treatment of early pregnancy loss.

May 14, 2025 • 50min
Is secondary traumatic stress driving teachers out of the profession?
A new study has looked at the impact of Secondary Traumatic Stress on teachers and the role it could play in driving teachers out of the profession, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss the importance of formal recognition of the condition and what might help alleviate the stressors. Also in this edition we discuss whether there needs to be stronger legal protections for employees who are dismissed for having a criminal record, plus learn about some new technology to help prevent falls.

May 13, 2025 • 50min
Supporting families through paediatric palliative care
In this engaging discussion, Sol Kim shares her heartfelt journey as a mother navigating palliative care for her son, highlighting the invaluable support from Very Special Kids. She emphasizes the emotional complexities of dealing with life-limiting illnesses and the importance of celebrating life amidst sorrow. Ray Chamberlain reflects on the pressures faced by umpires at all levels, sharing anecdotes from his career and stressing the need for respect and support for officials. Together, they illustrate the profound impact of compassion in both palliative care and sports.

May 12, 2025 • 50min
How do we cultivate a love of reading?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at where a love of reading stems from and whether it is something that in innate or can be developed. Also, as farmers in some of the lushest parts of the state run out of water, we look at the impact it is having on livestock producers and just how serious the issue is becoming. And a controversial mural in Fitzroy prompts questions about what the role of public art should be.

May 9, 2025 • 52min
Is the risk of concussion too high in kids footy?
How concerned should we be about the risk of concussion in kids footy? In this edition of The Conversation Hour, we explore the challenging decision many parents have to make about whether the risk is just too high.Plus, the Catholic Church has a new pope, Pope Leo, so who is he and what will he stand for? Also, as Nicole Kidman sported a new hair do at the Met Gala this week, we talk the significance of hair and identity.

May 8, 2025 • 52min
Why are young people not driving trucks?
There has been a decline in the amount of young people driving trucks, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at what needs to happen to attract and retain young people to the industry. We also look at why there has already been a spike in flu rates this year and the importance of keeping clothes manufacturing local. loring the issues that affect all Victorians.

May 7, 2025 • 51min
Why is the AFL looking to recruit players in America?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we delve into why AFL recruiters are being sent to America , and what it could mean for the profile of the game internationally. We also discuss the impacts of the closure of the Bega Cheese processing site in Strathmore, talk the dangers of AI bias in surveillance and we reflect on what role the piano has in people's lives

May 6, 2025 • 49min
A big night for Melbourne's basketball community
It was a big night in Frankston last night as the Melbourne born Chicago Bulls player subbed in at a local A-grade competition in Frankston last night, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk the significance of the appearance with Melbourne's basketball community. Also in this edition, how much can Victoria's new chief police commissioner Mike Bush change the culture, what are the best looks at this year's Met Gala and why are some elite athletes been warned against having one night stands.

May 5, 2025 • 49min
Why are children overrepresented in e-scooter fatalities?
New research reveals that children are disproportionately represented in e-scooter deaths, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the risks e-scooters pose to young people and what needs to happen to keep kids safe on the roads. We also look at just how significant influences where in determining the election result. Plus, we look at just how unusual it is to have temperatures in the mid 20s in May.