Big Ideas

From soy to oat to almond, plant mylks are all the rage. But is it possible that we've misunderstood and unfairly maligned old fashioned cow's milk?SpeakersMatthew Evans Farmer, Fat Pig FarmsAuthor, Milk: the truth, the lies and the unbelievable story of the original superfoodHost, Gourmet Farmer, SBSNick Haddow Bruny Island Cheese CoAuthor, Milk Made: A book about cheese

Mary Wareham, Deputy Director at Human Rights Watch, and Jody Williams, a Nobel Peace Prize co-laureate, tackle the pressing issue of lethal autonomous weapons. They discuss the alarming rise of killer robots and the need for stringent regulations to prevent catastrophic outcomes. Reflecting on their advocacy against landmines, they emphasize international cooperation and the urgency for a global treaty to regulate these technologies. The conversation also highlights the ethical dilemmas of autonomous warfare and the critical role of civil society in shaping future policies.

Join Richard Flanagan, an award-winning Australian author, and Michael Robotham, a bestselling thriller writer, as they tackle the often-overlooked hidden costs of cheap books. They discuss how discounting impacts independent bookstores and author royalties. The duo debates the idea of adopting fixed book pricing in Australia, inspired by practices in Europe. Flanagan and Robotham also highlight the importance of supporting local literature and the need for cultural investment to ensure a thriving literary landscape.

Maxine Beneba Clarke, an accomplished author of 'The Hate Race', chats with Sienna Brown, a voice amplifying Caribbean identity in Australia. They explore the rich connections between the Caribbean and Australia, touching on themes of belonging through storytelling. Personal anecdotes reveal the significance of family legacy and cultural heritage in shaping identities. The conversation weaves in historical reflections, emphasizing how narratives can reclaim identities while offering deeper understanding of migrant experiences and the literary challenges faced in Australia.

Tim Flannery, a climate advocate and author, along with his daughter Emma, unite to unravel the mystery of Megalodon, the largest predator in history. They discuss its astonishing size—10 humans long and capable of a bite that could take out two people. Paleontologists Erich Fitzgerald and Cheng-Hsui Tsai enhance the conversation, exploring the Megalodon's extinction and its ecological significance. Insights about ancient marine ecosystems, the adaptability of modern whales, and the role of amateur fossil collectors add depth to this fascinating dive into prehistoric mysteries.

Hannah Ferguson, the founder of cheekmedia.co, and Sisonke Msimang, an influential writer and activist, delve into the complexities of being a modern intellectual on social media. They discuss the balance between rigorous scholarship and commercial demands, the evolution of public discourse, and the challenges faced by young women of color in the media. The conversation touches on navigating online harassment, the ethical dilemmas of monetization, and the responsibilities of influencers in addressing social issues while maintaining authenticity.

Suzanne Thompson, Founder & Managing Director of Yambangku Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and Tourism Development Corporation, dives into the profound potential of bush tucker for future food security. She discusses the crucial role Indigenous knowledge plays in sustainable practices and the commercialization of native foods. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of cultural identity and ecological wisdom, stressing the urgent need for collaborative efforts in integrating traditional practices into modern agriculture. Insights on health benefits and ethical harvesting practices add depth to this enlightening exploration.

Kim Williams, the new ABC Chair, aims to bring significant changes to Australia's national public broadcaster. He discusses the challenges public broadcasting faces in a digital age and the importance of engaging younger audiences. The conversation highlights the necessity of revitalizing documentary filmmaking and fostering local content amidst increasing dissatisfaction from listeners. Williams emphasizes the ABC's role in preserving Australian narratives and the need for increased funding to ensure editorial integrity and public accountability.

It's an adults-only hour of high vaudeville to make you laugh and think. Two teams of brainiacs go head-to-head at the annual Big Ideas and Beaker St Festival Great Debate hosted by Big Ideas’ presenter Natasha Mitchell. Arguing for the proposition is Team 'The Procreators' starring radio host and maths nerd to the masses Adam Spencer, Quandamooka saltwater scientist Mibu Fischer, Guardian Australia journalist and TikTok presenter Matilda Boseley. Arguing against the proposition is Team 'Nappy Rash and the Tiny Demons' starring Mathematician Barbara Holland, Guardian Australia cartoonist First Dog on the Moon, Science Vs podcast host Wendy Zukerman. Who will convince you?Speakers:THE PROCREATORSAdam Spencer (Team captain)Author, broadcaster, maths geekMibu FischerQuandamooka saltwater scientist, marine ethnoecologist and PhD studentCSIROMatilda BoseleyGuardian Australia journalist and social media presenterAuthor, The Year I Met My Brain (Penguin, 2023)NAPPY RASH AND THE LITTLE DEMONSProfessor Barbara HollandMathematician, University of TasmaniaFirst Dog on the MoonCartoonist and wannabe marsupialGuardian AustraliaWendy ZukermanScience journalistHost and founder, Science Vs podcast

"They paved paradise and put up a parking lot" sang Joni Mitchell.  Let's get wild and urban.  Sometimes nature can thrive in cities in surprising ways and by accident. Hear how. And did you know 39 threatened species only exist in Australian cites? How do we design a city for fairy wrens, and the other feathered and furry beings who call it home?SpeakersSarah BekessyProfessor of Sustainability and Urban Planning, ICON Science research group, RMIT Darryl JonesWriter, speaker, researcher, behavioural ecologist, Professor Emeritus Griffith University Christopher Daniels (host)Chair of Green Adelaide, Zoologist, Adjunct Professor of Urban Ecology, University of South Australia