Different Matters by Damien Grant

In this engaging conversation, historian Paul Moon shares insights about renowned New Zealand photographer Ans Westra, whose life and legacy he recently chronicled in a biography. He delves into her complex family dynamics and how they shaped her artistic journey. The discussion explores Westra’s groundbreaking role in documenting Māori culture during urbanization, her unique techniques, and the tensions between her art and personal relationships. Moon offers a compelling look at how Westra balanced her passion for photography with familial responsibilities.

In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Rauch, an insightful journalist and author known for his work on public policy and culture, delves into timeless and timely issues. He connects the philosophies of Plato to modern challenges like cancel culture, examining how ancient ideas can inform our views on free speech today. The conversation covers moral dilemmas surrounding controversial figures like Salman Rushdie, the pitfalls of intolerance in liberal institutions, and the pressing need for open-mindedness amidst ideological dogma in media and society.

In this engaging discussion, Christopher Finlayson, a prominent New Zealand lawyer and former Attorney-General, shares insights on his book, 'He Kupu Taurangi.' He delves into the intricate treaty settlement process, emphasizing the need for direct engagement with Iwi. Finlayson sheds light on the historical struggles of the Tūhoe and the evolution of governance rights. He also explores the significance of place names, discussing their cultural implications and the journey of the Wanganui iwi in seeking recognition for their spiritual connection to the Wanganui River.

In this engaging discussion, Steven Braunias, a prominent New Zealand author and journalist, delves into the chilling tales of disappearance featured in his award-winning book, 'Missing Persons.' He shares gripping insights about notorious cases, including that of Grace Millane, highlighting the complexities of youth safety and public perception. The conversation also touches on the intriguing lives of Kim Dotcom and Colin Craig, revealing the tragic dimensions of their stories and the broader implications of absence in society.

Professor Alex Calder, a noted academic from the University of Auckland, delves into the life of Alexander Aitken, a war veteran and mathematician. They explore Aitken's journey from personal reflections to the poignant memoir 'Gallipoli to the Somme.' The discussion highlights Aitken's struggles with mental health, the impact of war on literature, and the profound lessons of memory during battle. Calder critiques the superficiality of traditional war poetry and emphasizes the need for authentic narratives that capture the emotional complexities of soldiers' experiences.

Graham Linehan is an Irish comedy writer and anti-transgender activist. He created or co-created the sitcoms Father Ted (1995–1998), Black Books (2000–2004) and The IT Crowd (2006–2013), and he has written for shows including Count Arthur Strong, Brass Eye and The Fast Show. Early in his career, he partnered with the writer Arthur Mathews. Linehan has won five BAFTA awards, including Best Writer, Comedy, for The IT Crowd in 2014.Tune in as controversial writer and podcast host, Damien Grant, interviews Graham to discuss his early career, as well as his more recent emersion in the trans-gender debate.  For more information, or to get in touch, visit the Different Matters Website.

James Hollings is Programme Leader, Journalism, for Massey Niversity.  He has worked in senior roles in news organisations, including as production editor and as a senior correspondent in health, agriculture, industry and the arts. His doctoral dissertation was on the decision-making processes of reluctant witnesses.James Hollings, together with Kirsty Johnston, recently published The Crewe MurdersInside New Zealand’s most infamous cold case. The murder of Harvey and Jeannette Crewe in their Pukekawa farmhouse in 1970 remains New Zealand’s most infamous cold case. It spawned two trials, two appeals, several books, a film, and eventually a royal commission finding of police corruption.Tune in as controversial writer and podcast host, Damien Grant, interviews a wide selection of interesting and entertaining individuals, authors, business people, politicians and anyone else actually willing to talk to him.For more information, or to get in touch, visit the Different Matters Website.

Dr. Eric Crampton, Chief Economist at The New Zealand Initiative, discusses 'How the Dismal Science Got Its Name' with host. Topics include differing views on slavery and race in the 19th century, Thomas Carlisle's controversial views, debates on conduct attribution, controversial governor's actions in Jamaica, revisiting historical debates on market egalitarianism and slavery, and exploring moral egalitarianism and autonomy in decision-making.

Damien interviews Philip Matthews about his book on the life of genetic scientist Andrew Bagshaw, who saved 500 lives in Ukraine but tragically lost his own. They discuss heroism, selflessness, and the moral clarity of the Ukrainian conflict compared to other conflicts.

Joe Bennett is one of New Zealands most highly decorated columnists and has won the New Zealand Colomnist Award of the Year multiple times.  Born in England, Joe Bennett has lived in New Zealand since 1987. Thirteen collections of his columns have been published in New Zealand and three world-wide. He has had four travel books published by Simon and Schuster UK, and his work has been translated into Chinese, Korean, Greek and American. Where Underpants Come From was the Whitcoulls Travcom Travel Book of the Year in 2009. His novel, King Rich, is set in the ruins of Christchurch after the 2011 quakes, and spent five weeks at #1 on the NZ Fiction Best Seller list. ​His memoir From There to Here was published by Harper Collins in May 2023.Tune in as controversial writer and podcast host, Damien Grant, interviews a wide selection of interesting and entertaining individuals, authors, business people, politicians and anyone else actually willing to talk to him.For more information, or to get in touch, visit the Different Matters Website.