Big Ideas

Guests Peter Cosgrove, former Chief of the Australian Defence Force and Governor-General, and Mia Martin Hobbs, an author and postdoctoral fellow, delve into Australia’s military past and present. They discuss the Vietnam War's impact on national identity and public sentiment, exploring how political figures shaped military engagements over decades. The conversation covers evolving attitudes toward defense, the significance of veteran healing journeys, and the challenges posed by modern threats, all while advocating for a cohesive national identity in the face of global uncertainty.

Judith Brett, a political historian and author of notable works on Australian politics, joins Cathy McGowan, a former Independent MP who shares her unique experiences in Parliament, and Thomas Mayo, an advocate for Indigenous rights and the push for a parliamentary voice for First Nations people. They dive into the implications of the recent Australian election, discussing the rise of community independents and the importance of engagement in democracy. The conversation also touches on resilience in activism and the evolving role of youth and women in shaping Australia’s political landscape.

Tara Moses, COO of RM Williams, Sarah Sheridan, co-founder of Clothing the Gaps, Amy Gallagher of Cloak, and Juanita Page from Joseph and James come together to discuss the state of Australian fashion. They highlight the irony that Australians are the world's biggest clothing consumers while only three percent of clothes are made locally. The guests explore challenges in local manufacturing, the rise of fast fashion, and the need for transparency and sustainability in the industry. They emphasize supporting independent retailers and advocate for ethical consumer choices.

In this engaging discussion, Catherine Fox, an award-winning journalist focused on women's leadership, and Josh Bornstein, a labor law expert, dive into Mark Zuckerberg's claim about corporate culture needing more 'masculine energy.' They explore the implications for gender dynamics in leadership and highlight the alarming influence of the manosphere on young men. The conversation also critically examines the fragility of diversity initiatives, the decline in women's program funding, and the urgent need for political engagement to drive real change.

Democracies in retreat, attacks on science, border disputes, death and destruction. It can feel like we are living in unprecedented times - but here's the thing: world history has a habit of repeating itself. So what lessons does history teach us about this moment in which we find ourselves? Do we humans learn anything from the past, or are we destined to repeat the same mistakes?This event was recorded at Adelaide Writers' Week on 5 May 2025.SpeakersOrlando FigesHistorian of Russia and EuropeEmeritus Professor of History at the University of LondonAuthor, The Europeans: Three Lives and the Making of a Cosmopolitan Culture, The Whisperers: Private Life in Stalin's Russia and many moreBettany HughesClassical historian, writer, broadcasterAuthor, Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Venus and Aphrodite: history of a goddess and many morePresenter, Bettany Hughes' Lost Worlds: The Nabataeans (SBS)Matthew LongoPolitical scientistAuthor, The Politics of Borders: Sovereignty, Security, and the Citizen after 9/11, The Picnic: A dream of freedom and the collapse of the Iron Curtain (Winner of the 2024 Orwell Prize for political writing)Assistant Professor of Political Science, Leiden University (The Netherlands)Dava SobelScience writer and historianAuthor, Longitude, Galileo's Daughter, The Elements of Marie Curie and many moreAnnabelle Quince (host)Host, Rear Vision, ABC Radio National

Ruthie Foster, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for her soulful blues and folk music, reveals the inspiration behind her artistry. In a heartfelt discussion, she reflects on her Texas roots and the influence of her grandmother and mother. Ruthie emphasizes the significance of faith in her life and the importance of telling real stories through her music. She also shares her experiences from both the Navy and her early days, blending humor and deep emotion as she navigates her journey in the vibrant world of music.

Mikhail Zygar, an exiled Russian journalist and founder of Rain TV, discusses the authoritarian grip of Vladimir Putin's regime and the plight of independent media in Russia. He shares harrowing anecdotes about life as a journalist under constant threat, revealing the extensive silencing of dissent. Zygar also delves into the evolving sentiments of Ukrainians during the ongoing conflict, reflecting on their determination and fatigue. Additionally, he highlights the complex U.S.-Russia relations and how Ukraine views Trump’s policies, exploring the broader implications for global democracy.

Join Kris Helgen, a mammologist and the soon-to-be president of the Bishop Museum, and Jacob Bongers, an archaeologist from the University of Sydney, as they dive into the mysteries of Machu Picchu and ancient Peru. They discuss the sophisticated Incan civilization and its unique burial practices, highlighting the significance of rituals in connecting the living with the dead. Fascinating discoveries, including the recently identified Olingito and the impact of the Spanish conquest, reveal the rich tapestry of life in ancient Peru.

Sandy Jeffs, an author and mental health advocate living with schizophrenia, joins Fay Jackson, General Manager at Flourish Australia, and Michelle Blanchard, CEO of VANISH. They discuss the powerful impact of language on mental health stigma. Sandy shares personal narratives about the evolving terms that can either heal or harm. Fay highlights the importance of culturally sensitive language, while Michelle explores the significance of reclaiming labels. Together, they advocate for compassionate communication to foster understanding and reduce discrimination.

In this enlightening discussion, Richard Fisher, author of 'The Long View' and former BBC science writer, teams up with Ande Somby, a celebrated Yoik singer and Associate Professor at The Arctic University of Norway. They explore the profound connection between time and human experience, contrasting short-term modern thinking with Indigenous perspectives. Discover how a mosquito bite can remind us of life's fleeting moments and learn the ethical implications of our relationship with nature. They advocate for a future that balances imagination, community, and moral responsibility.