Big Ideas

Mikhail Zygar, an exiled Russian journalist and founder of Rain TV, discusses the authoritarian grip of Vladimir Putin's regime and the plight of independent media in Russia. He shares harrowing anecdotes about life as a journalist under constant threat, revealing the extensive silencing of dissent. Zygar also delves into the evolving sentiments of Ukrainians during the ongoing conflict, reflecting on their determination and fatigue. Additionally, he highlights the complex U.S.-Russia relations and how Ukraine views Trump’s policies, exploring the broader implications for global democracy.

Join Kris Helgen, a mammologist and the soon-to-be president of the Bishop Museum, and Jacob Bongers, an archaeologist from the University of Sydney, as they dive into the mysteries of Machu Picchu and ancient Peru. They discuss the sophisticated Incan civilization and its unique burial practices, highlighting the significance of rituals in connecting the living with the dead. Fascinating discoveries, including the recently identified Olingito and the impact of the Spanish conquest, reveal the rich tapestry of life in ancient Peru.

Sandy Jeffs, an author and mental health advocate living with schizophrenia, joins Fay Jackson, General Manager at Flourish Australia, and Michelle Blanchard, CEO of VANISH. They discuss the powerful impact of language on mental health stigma. Sandy shares personal narratives about the evolving terms that can either heal or harm. Fay highlights the importance of culturally sensitive language, while Michelle explores the significance of reclaiming labels. Together, they advocate for compassionate communication to foster understanding and reduce discrimination.

In this enlightening discussion, Richard Fisher, author of 'The Long View' and former BBC science writer, teams up with Ande Somby, a celebrated Yoik singer and Associate Professor at The Arctic University of Norway. They explore the profound connection between time and human experience, contrasting short-term modern thinking with Indigenous perspectives. Discover how a mosquito bite can remind us of life's fleeting moments and learn the ethical implications of our relationship with nature. They advocate for a future that balances imagination, community, and moral responsibility.

Join Paul Kelly, Editor-at-Large for The Australian, Frank Bongiorno, Professor of History at ANU, and Kim Carr, former Victorian Labor Senator, as they dissect the state of Australian politics. They tackle the identity crisis facing the Liberal Party and its struggle for voter support amidst rising independents. The conversation sheds light on the evolving political landscape, particularly the decline of traditional party loyalties and the crucial role of Muslim voters in influencing elections. A thought-provoking look at modern governance in Australia!

Join Natasha Mitchell as she chats with a powerhouse panel: John Lyons, ABC's Washington bureau chief; Greg Sheridan, foreign editor at The Australian; Emma Shortis from the Australia Institute; and tech journalist Josh Taylor. They tackle pressing global issues, like the fragility of democracy post-WWII, the chilling impact of tech on governance, and the human cost of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. The rise of AI and its repercussions on jobs and creativity also take center stage, highlighting just how much our world is shifting.

Tom McIlroy, author and political correspondent, teams up with Niki Savva, a political commentator, to dive into the touchstone that is Jackson Pollock's 'Blue Poles'. They discuss how the controversial painting's purchase by the Whitlam Government in 1973 reverberated through Australian politics, affecting public perception and national identity. The conversation also explores the emotional legacy of the artwork and the complexities of political portraiture, particularly in how art shapes our views of politicians today.

Until recently, the USA provided about 30% of global health funding. It was dominant in supplying HIV/AIDS medication and funded a major part of medical research. Much of this has now stopped with Donald Trump restricting gender affirming care, withdrawing from the WHO and holding funds from USAID - and the list goes on. What are the impacts on pandemic preparedness, future global  health priorities and  resource mobilisation?This conversation has been presented by the The Australian Institute for Infectious Disease (AIID) and the Australian Global Health Alliance.SpeakersDr Nina SchwalbeCEO and founder of Spark Street AdvisorsProfessor Brendan CrabbDirector and CEO Burnet InstituteProfessor Sharon LewinDirector Doherty InstituteDr Selina Namchee Lo (host)Executive Director, Australian Global Health Alliance

Sir Simon Schama, a distinguished British historian and professor at Columbia University, delves into the long-standing issue of antisemitism, tracing its roots and modern implications. He humorously reflects on how Jewish people have historically served as societal scapegoats. Schama shares poignant insights about the Holocaust, emphasizing the delayed global response and the necessity for awareness. He advocates for storytelling as a means to bridge cultural divides and challenges prevailing narratives about Jewish identity and history in Israel.

Cancer is common and chemo and radiotherapies can save or extend our lives. But sometimes they don't, or they stop working, or they come with disabling long-term side effects. In a state of desperation, some of us seek out unproven alternatives which might even put us at greater risk of cancer. Join Big Ideas host Natasha Mitchell and guests to find out how scientists are attacking the problem of cancer treatment.This event was organised by the Australasian Society of Stem Cell Research, University of Adelaide, and National Stem Cell Foundation of Australia.SpeakersProfessor Mark DawsonHaematologist and clinician-scientistAssociate Director of ResearchPeter MacCallum Cancer Centre and the University of Melbourne.Associate Professor David ElliotStem cell researcher and leader of the Heart Disease group, Murdoch Children's Research InstitutePrincipal investigator, Novo Nordisk Foundation for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW). Professor Megan MunsieImmediate Past President, Australasian Society of Stem Cell Research (ASSCR)Professor of Emerging Technologies (Stem Cells) Murdoch Children's Research Institute and the University of MelbourneThank also to Tanya Ha from Science in Public and Dr Luke Isbel from the South Australian immunoGENomics Cancer Institute.Further listeningHow surfing writer Tim Baker and doctor Peter Goldsworthy learnt to live well and laugh with cancer (Big Ideas, 2025)