Big Ideas

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)

Pankaj Mishra, an acclaimed Indian author, dives into the complexities of the Gaza conflict, weaving narratives of colonialism, morality, and history. He challenges conventional views, emphasizing themes of justice amidst tragedy. Alongside Simon Longstaff, ethics expert and director of The Ethics Centre, they explore the cyclical nature of oppression and the moral dilemmas faced by marginalized groups. The discussion also touches on reparations and the necessity of ethical restraint, encouraging a reevaluation of entrenched narratives to foster dialogue and coexistence.

Sophie Hay, a Roman archaeologist with 20 years at Pompeii, and Stephen Ellis, a Professor of Classics, dive into the captivating history of Pompeii. They discuss the vivid daily life of the ancient city, from bustling bakeries to social interactions, before Vesuvius's eruption. The duo shares insights on modern excavation techniques, the challenges of conservation amidst tourism, and intriguing artifacts like carbonized bread that highlight Roman culture. Their passion for preserving Pompeii’s mysteries takes center stage, connecting the past with contemporary archaeology.

Farkondeh Akbari, an expert on Afghan women's rights, joins fellow researchers Isabella Aung, Jacqui True, and Rana Dadpour to discuss the fierce resistance of women against authoritarianism in Iran, Afghanistan, and Myanmar. They explore the inspiring #WomenLifeFreedom movement, the struggles of education for Afghan women, and the armed resistance emerging in Myanmar. The conversation highlights the challenges these women face, their resilience, and the urgent need for global support to amplify their voices in the fight for basic rights and freedoms.

Michelle Lesh, a lawyer and the wife of late author Mark Rafael Baker, and Raimond Gaita, a respected philosopher and Baker's stepfather-in-law, share powerful insights on mortality and legacy. They reflect on Baker’s struggles with terminal illness and how it shaped his memoir. The conversation touches on the emotional turmoil of editing a posthumous work and the significance of authenticity in capturing a loved one's voice. They also discuss the challenges of misdiagnosis in cancer and the critical role of holistic care in navigating such harrowing experiences.

Join Natasha Mitchell and her insightful guests, Peter Harrison, a leading scholar on the interplay of science and religion, Charles Wolfe, a philosopher of biology, and Anik Waldow, who explores our human place in nature. They delve into the historical and contemporary tensions between science and faith, unraveling the decline in scientific literacy and the rise of anti-science sentiments. They ponder the evolving concept of the soul, advocate for dialogues that bridge gaps, and highlight the need to integrate Indigenous wisdom with scientific understanding for a better future.

Kara Swisher, a seasoned tech journalist and author of "Burn Book: A Tech Love Story," teams up with host Marc Fennell to dissect the world of Big Tech. They delve into the messy ties between tech magnates and political figures, sharing humorous anecdotes about the chaotic behavior of leaders like Musk and Zuckerberg. The duo critiques the moral obligations of wealthy tech titans and raises pressing concerns about AI competition and data privacy. Their insights challenge the current dynamics within the tech industry and its broader societal impact.

Jobs vs the environment. Profits vs environmental protection.  One pitted against the other. That dominant story has defined environmental regulation in Australia, drowning out the stories scientists or environmental campaigners want to tell.  Scientist, environmentalist, and government insider, Peter Cosier, has worn all the hats and he wants to change how we think and talk about Nature. An eye opening account of Australian environmentalism and its politics.Presented at the Lyrebird FestivalSpeakersPeter CosierChair of Accounting for NatureFounding Member of the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists, Former Policy Adviser to the Australian Environment Minister Robert HillGregg BorschmannOral Historian for the National Library of Australia, Writer & Radio Producer

Teenagers 'live' online and on social media. How can they reap the many benefits that social media can offer? There are plenty of them: an endless pool of knowledge and curiosity. But parents need to help them navigate the risk and threats online — of which there're also plenty.On Big Ideas, we have a panel of experts with a plethora of valuable information, advice and resources.Presented by the Raising Children Network and hosted at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute.Check out the ABC TV series 'Role of a Lifetime' on iview with more details about parenting in the social media era.SpeakersDerek McCormackDirector of Raising Children NetworkDr. Julie Inman GrantAustralia's eSafety CommissionerDr. Sarthak GandhiHeadspace Board Youth Advisor and Researcher at Murdoch Children's Research InstituteProfessor Marie YapResearch Professor at Monash University and Psychologist with expertise in Parenting & Youth Mental HealthBeverley Wang (host)ABC's National Culture CorrespondentFurther informationRaising Children NetworkeSafety CommissionerHeadspaceKits HelplineReach Out Parent lineYouth Safe

Two of Australia’s most influential and legendary storytellers, author Tim Winton and filmmaker Rachel Perkins, join Natasha Mitchell at WOMADelaide’s Planet Talks to discuss the power of stories and the role of artists to create change in the world.SpeakersRachel PerkinsMulti-award-winning filmmaker, and founder of Blackfella filmsDirector, presenter, co-writer, co-producer The Australian Wars series (available on SBS On Demand)Co-director, co-writer, co-producer First AustraliansTim WintonMulti-award-winning author of Juice, Dirt Music, Cloudstreet and more.Patron of the Australian Marine Conservation Society Host and writer, Ningaloo Nyinggulu series (available on ABC Iview)Activist, Protect Ningaloo and Exmouth Gulf campaignThis event was recorded live at the annual 2025 WOMADelaide festival produced and presented as part of its Planet Talks program, held on the traditional lands of the Kaurna people. Thanks to Planet Talks producer Rob Law.