The Good Life: Andrew Leigh in Conversation

153. John Safran on comedy, constraints & creativity.  You can check out John's new book 'Puff Piece' here. Photo credit: Penguin Random House.

Markus Zusak on stories that mean everything (Rebroadcast).

Hugh Mackay on the Golden Rule and the Positivity Trap (Rebroadcast).  Note that this episode contains some discussion of the share of people reporting 'No religion' in the Australian Census. The correct figures were 22.3% in the 2011 Census (which listed 'No religion' last), and 30.1% in the 2016 Census (which listed 'No religion' first).

Jono Lineen explains why walking makes us wise (Rebroadcast).  To mark The Good Life reaching 150 episodes, we're conducting a listener survey. The survey is HERE . It will take you about three minutes, and gives you a chance to suggest who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. Thanks in advance for sharing your insights and helping shape future

152. Jill Stark on breakdowns and breakthroughs.  If this episode raises issues for you, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. To mark The Good Life reaching 150 episodes, we're conducting a listener survey. The survey is HERE . It will take you about three minutes, and gives you a chance to suggest who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. Thanks in advance for sharing your insights and helping shape future episodes. 

John Bell, a celebrated Australian actor and co-founder of Bell Shakespeare, dives into the powerful leadership lessons drawn from Shakespearean drama. He highlights the importance of empathy and connection in leadership through rich storytelling. The discussion also covers the transformative role of Shakespeare in education, contrasting figures like Richard III and King Lear, and delving into Brutus's tragic choices. Bell reflects on kindness, evolving beliefs, and the interplay of joy and grief, showcasing how literature informs personal and ethical growth.

150. Rhiannon Evans on lessons from Ancient Rome. To mark The Good Life's 150th episode, we're conducting a listener survey. The survey is HERE . It will take you about three minutes, and gives you a chance to suggest who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. Thanks in advance for sharing your insights and helping shape future episodes.  N.B. Rhiannon's podcast is "Emperors of Rome", available here. Rhiannon's publications include "Utopia Antiqua" and "Caesar's triumphs over Gaul and Rome" (with Sarah Midford). The latter is available for free download here.

Linda Burney on love, loss, racism and hope (Rebroadcast).

Sisonke Msimang on exile and home, hatred and belonging. You can find out more about Sisonke, her recent book Always Another Country, and her other writing here.

149. Turia Pitt on triathlons, beauty and happiness.   Check out Turia Pitt's books: Happy & Other Ridiculous Aspirations, Everything to Live For and Unmasked.