Life Matters - Separate stories podcast

As conversations about neurodiversity become more mainstream, there's a growing awareness of the concept of "masking".It's the act of covering up behaviours, or hiding parts of your identity to better fit in.But, it's not just neurodivergent people who may "perform themselves" differently depending on their environment. So, how does this impact us, and how can we get in touch with a more authentic version of who we are?

Over the last few years a new way of teaching has emerged in Australian classrooms, yet many of the techniques sound old. It's called explicit instruction, and it's taking over Australian classrooms. What is it and what does it mean for your kids? Guests:Steve Capp, Principal of Chelsea Heights Primary School Jane Hunter, Associate Professor of Teacher Education and Innovation at the University of Technology SydneyAmy Haywood, Deputy Program Director of education at the Grattan Institute 

Movies and video games have age ratings that help you know if they're suitable for your child. But what about books? They don't typically come with ratings - so how are we supposed to know what's actually in these books before our kids dive in?Should they come with content guidance too?

During Erin Patterson's two-month murder trial, one person stood by her in court. That friend later revealed she'd been treated "badly" because of her continued support.So, what are the ethics of supporting a friend?  Should you stand by a mate no matter what?

Health professionals are pushing back on the idea that you can tell whether someone is healthy just by looking at them.So what is weight stigma, and how is it preventing people from getting the medical help they need? 

It's a huge paradox - now, more than ever, hook-ups are more socially accepted and more available.Finding a fling is literally like ordering a cab. Pick up your phone, swipe a few times, and you can have someone at your door within the hour.So, with sex on tap, why are so many young people saying "no"?

Does your family use made-up words, quirky phrases, or in-jokes no one else would understand? Linguists call it familect.Not only does it guarantee some laughs around the dinner table, it plays a unique role in building connection and a sense of belonging.

Zero-alcohol drinks are booming, but could they be a gateway for teens? So, what are the hidden risks behind the trend?

Snowtown, Port Arthur, and now Leongatha.When a place become known for horror or tragedy, what's the impact on those who call it home? 

Dynamic pricing, online queues crashing, mass cancellations - in 2025, buying concert tickets is a stressful experience.Add sky-high prices into a cost-of-living crunch and it's a surprise anyone can afford to attend a concert.So, why do we run the risk?