Conversations

Marine ecologist, Pia Winberg learned how useful seaweed could be for gut health and wound healing. One day she was conducting research by herself in her lab when she had a terrible accident.Pia was four-years-old when she moved from her native Sweden to Australia.She always loved the beach and the coastline. As an adult, Pia became fascinated with the scientific properties of seaweed after visiting a Sri Lankan prawn farm using seaweed to bolster the health of the surrounding environment.She became a marine ecologist in Wollongong south of Sydney, looking at the unique ways seaweed could help clean the ocean and help people with various ailments.In 2015 Pia set up her own seaweed farm, on the edge of an alcohol distillery in the town of Nowra.One day she was emptying seaweed extract from a tank when a large section of her scalp was torn away from her head by a machine.The accident could've killed her if she'd fainted. Instead Pia walked 200 metres from the factory to her office, to tell her staff what had happened.Further information2025 update: Pia has now had six reconstruction surgeries, and seaweed gels have played a huge part in her healing.  Pia explains: using Phyaluronic formulations, which we coined to describe seaweed gels that mimic human tissue, has been transformative in my recovery… I am now 90% reconstructed on top.Originally broadcast July 2019.Learn more about Pia's work with seaweed.More information about Australia's unique seaweed species.This episode was produced by Nicola Harrison. The executive producer was Carmel Rooney.This episode of Conversations touches on seaweed, sustainable farming, emergency services, near-fatal accidents, epic life story, origin story, oceans and marine research.Standout story – Bill BaileyHear Richard’s conversation with Bill Bailey:https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/conversations/conversations-bill-bailey/8032120You can read all about the Conversations origin story on the ABC News website.https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-03/richard-fidler-reflects-on-20-years-of-conversations/105495784To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Sarah and Richard give you a sneak peek behind the scenes of the Conversations Live Tour, Brisbane edition.Writer and comedian, Mandy Nolan and Chair of Creative Australia, Quandamooka man Wesley Enoch were two of the special guests who appeared on stage to share some photos close to their heart, and the stories attached to them.Further informationTo see Mandy and Wesley's photos for yourself, head to the ABC Conversations Facebook page.https://www.facebook.com/abcconvos/To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Mic Whitty, a former RAAF apprentice and IT professional, shares his remarkable journey from homelessness to purpose. After a tumultuous career and a struggle with gambling that led to financial ruin, Mic found redemption while cycling to visit war cemeteries, inspired by his grandfather's diary. He reflects on the challenges of addiction, the importance of vulnerability, and the unique connections he uncovered through his cycling adventures. Mic’s resilience and newfound mission create a touching narrative of hope and exploration.

Tommy Caldwell grew up exploring Yosemite, looking up at El Capitan's punishing 3000ft sheer rock face. After years of training, he was ready to climb it. Tommy is regarded as the world’s best big wall climber.He spent 15 years ascending various routes on El Capitan, the Yosemite National Park mecca for big wall climbers, until he was finally ready to attempt a route christened 'The Dawn Wall'.The Dawn Wall is a 3000-foot ascent up sheer rock on the southeast face of El Capitan.It took Tommy and his partner Kevin Jorgeson 19 days, but in 2015 they became the first to successfully free climb The Dawn Wall.The accomplishment was the culmination of years of endurance, just only on the wall, but also on the ground. As a younger man, Tommy was kidnapped in Kyrgyzstan and he later lost a finger in an accident, which is a particularly devastating loss for a climber. Through it all, Tommy says climbing is what kept him sane.Further informationFirst broadcast in August, 2019.A documentary about Tommy and Kevin's climb, The Dawn Wall, is available on Netflix.2025 update: Tommy has published a best-selling memoir, ‘The Push’.You can read all about the Conversations origin story on the ABC News website.This episode of Conversations explores rock climbing, bouldering, California, National Parks, outdoor pursuits, free climbing, sports injuries, documentary, adrenaline sports.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Vickie's police record began when she was just 2 years old, and followed her throughout her life. But as an adult she pushed back, challenging a federal law for the rights of prisoners.When Vickie was given a police record as a toddler, it enabled authorities to place her into the custody of a family she didn't know.She grew up in western Sydney, under the strict religious rule of her adoptive mother, with whom she clashed time and again.Vickie left school at 13., and in the same year she met her birth mother for the first time and discovered she was Aboriginal.Decades of trouble followed, including numerous prison terms.But Vickie has also known periods of stability, like winning back her son after a long-running custody dispute.In 2007, Vickie was awarded her master's degree while serving her final prison sentence at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre in Victoria.She was also the plaintiff in a ground-breaking legal challenge to the High Court, which returned to prisoners serving less than three years' the right to vote.Vickie now works as an advocate for the rights of women in prison.Content warning: this episode contains mentions of violence, suicide and drug use.Further informationFirst broadcast in May, 2019.Vickie appears in ABC TV's You Cant Ask That - Domestic Violence (survivors) episodeVickie was joint winner of the 2017 Tim McCoy Human Rights AwardAdoption resources and supportFind and Connect - support for former residents of children's homes, orphanages and institutions;Benevolent Society Australia - post-adoption support;For forced adoption support you can visit the Government support services website or contact the Forced Adoption Support Service in your state or territory on 1800 21 03 13.For immediate support, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 46 36.You can read all about the Conversations origin story on the ABC News website.This episode of Conversations explores the Stolen Generations, DOCS, child protection, forced adoption, family separation, cultural identity, justice system, Aboriginal incarceration rate, deaths in custody, mental health, origin stories, family dynamics, motherhood, Yuin.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Ron McCallum, Emeritus Professor of Law at Sydney University and former chair of the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, shares his extraordinary journey. He discusses using technology like text-to-speech to overcome challenges and the emotional landscape of living as a blind individual. From his first love story to navigating solitude as an academic, Ron's insights highlight the transformative power of community and empathy. He reflects on the subtle complexities of blindness and the role of meaningful relationships in shaping his life.

Chris 'Brolga' Barns, founder of the Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs, shares his touching journey from aspiring bird enthusiast to devoted kangaroo caregiver. He recounts rescuing orphaned joeys like Josie, emphasizing their unique needs and the joy of their rehabilitation. Brolga discusses the emotional bonds formed with these animals and his experiences managing the sanctuary. He sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of wildlife conservation, including a new film about his life, offering an entertaining and heartfelt glimpse into his world.

Stan Grant, a veteran Wiradjuri journalist, shares his remarkable life journey, reflecting on his challenging upbringing in poverty and systemic discrimination. He discusses the contrasting influences of his tough father and nurturing mother in shaping his identity. As a successful journalist, he recounts powerful stories from reporting in North Korea and covering global events. Grant emphasizes resilience, the importance of cultural identity, and the hope for unity against racism in Australia. His narrative beautifully intertwines personal and collective stories of struggle and triumph.

Bruce McAvaney, a legendary sports broadcaster known for his iconic commentary, joins the hosts to share heartfelt stories and cherished photos from his life. He reflects on his childhood dreams and the challenges he faced in pursuing a career in sports. With anecdotes about early life and his broadcasting journey, Bruce emphasizes the importance of active listening in interviewing. His humility and passion shine through as he recounts memorable moments that shaped his illustrious career.

Gill Hicks, a London bombing survivor and peace advocate, shares her inspiring story of resilience and positivity. She discusses her journey with disability, humorously reflecting on her prosthetic legs and Converse sneakers. With striking photographs, she highlights the heroism of first responders and the transformative power of community. Gill's journey includes thrilling adventures like abseiling and a career revival during COVID, emphasizing the importance of embracing love and connection over hatred in adversity.