Alan Kohler, a finance journalist, and Patricia Collins, a former member of the Women's Royal Australian Naval Service, share their gripping survival stories from Cyclone Tracy in Darwin, 1974. Kohler recounts huddling with fellow journalists in a collapsing share house as the cyclone wreaked havoc. Collins, a teenager at the time, chose to stay with her Navy crew to aid the recovery. Together, they reflect on resilience, the emotional impact of the disaster, and the vital role of journalism and community support in overcoming such crises.

Lech Blaine, author of "Australian Gospel," shares a unique family saga marked by love, faith, and the complexities of foster care. He recounts the passionate romance of his parents, shaped by their contrasting backgrounds. Delving into their nurturing yet challenging parenting styles, Lech highlights how literature served as an escape for his mother. The tumultuous journey of his family reveals deep themes of resilience and acceptance amidst the trials of mental health and societal expectations, making for a poignant discussion.

Professor Richard Scolyer, a leading melanoma researcher and Joint Australian of the Year 2024, shares his gripping journey from expert to terminal brain cancer patient. He discusses the groundbreaking melanoma treatments he helped pioneer, the emotional turmoil of facing his own diagnosis, and the radical steps he took to fight glioblastoma. Richard reflects on resilience, teamwork, and the vital role of mental health during treatment. His story underscores the importance of cherishing life while confronting mortality head-on.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Gillian Deakin shares her remarkable journey as a GP who has ventured to places like Antarctica, Kiribati, and outback Australia. She reflects on her unconventional career path, stepping away from desk jobs to make a difference. Dr. Deakin delves into the complexities of functional illnesses—symptoms that defy diagnosis—and discusses the critical role of empathy in patient care. Her stories offer a fascinating glimpse into her experiences in diverse cultures and the profound impact of personal connection in medicine.

In this conversation, Jonathan Haidt, a best-selling author and ethics professor at NYU, discusses the pressing issue of screen addiction among children. He argues for a return to play-based childhood, emphasizing the detrimental effects of smartphones and social media on kids' mental health. Haidt also explores the need for legislation to limit social media access for minors and shares strategies like 'awe walks' in nature to reclaim focus and foster emotional well-being. His insights on parenting and the importance of real-world interactions are both enlightening and urgent.

Dr. Laura Driessen, a radio astronomer at the University of Sydney, delves into the mysteries of the cosmos. She shares her journey from childhood fascination with space to her groundbreaking research on radio stars. The discussion touches on the implications of cosmic phenomena for habitability and the search for extraterrestrial life. Laura also explores the nature of black holes, the unique challenges of radio astronomy, and how stellar activity influences life on Earth. A captivating blend of science and wonder!

Alice Zaslavsky, acclaimed cookbook author and TV presenter from MasterChef, takes us on a flavorful journey through her life. She shares her childhood in Georgia, where the collapse of the Soviet Union shaped her complex relationship with food. Nostalgic stories of family meals reveal the resilience and resourcefulness of her culture. From adapting to life in Australia to embracing culinary creativity, Alice discusses how food connects us and carries our heritage. Her passion for Georgian cuisine is passed on to her daughter, creating a bridge between past and present.

Pip Williams, author of bestsellers like The Dictionary of Lost Words, discusses her journey from being diagnosed with dyslexia as a teenager to becoming a celebrated writer. She reveals how reading about the Oxford Dictionary inspired her to explore women's underrepresentation in language. Pip shares her challenges and celebrations in creative expression, highlights the richness of personal stories that shape her work, and reflects on the transformative journey of her literary creations, emphasizing themes of gender and history.

Jon Ronson, an investigative journalist and author of "The Psychopath Test," discusses the intriguing world of psychopathy. He shares his experiences from a unique course on spotting psychopaths and dives into the bizarre history of experimental treatments in Canada, including nude LSD sessions. Ronson describes chilling encounters with violent offenders and explores the unsettling traits of psychopathy in leaders, emphasizing its troubling presence in both courtrooms and boardrooms. His journey leads to profound self-reflection and insights into societal perceptions of mental illness.

Claude Robinson, the manager of Rainbow Lodge, shares his extraordinary journey from heroin addiction and crime to redemption. Having spent time with notorious criminals like Ivan Milat, Claude reflects on his turning point in 2006 when he chose rehabilitation over self-destruction. He delves into the challenges faced by residents at Rainbow Lodge, navigating trauma and rebuilding lives. His story highlights the power of community support and the transformative journey toward healing and purpose after overcoming addiction.