Conversations

Stephen Smith, a talented tenor, transformed his life from homelessness to the operatic stage after being discovered while working at David Jones Food Hall. He shares his inspiring journey of struggle and resilience. The conversation dives into the joy of singing and its ability to forge community bonds. Stephen reflects on the impact of personal sacrifices on his pursuit of passion, offering insights into navigating artistic identity amidst life’s challenges. His story showcases the power of music as a catalyst for transformation and connection.

In 1882, a daring drover set off with 11,000 sheep from Victoria, facing droughts and floods on an epic journey to the Northern Territory. The tale weaves through the family's rich history and their resilient spirit, tracing back to a great-grandfather's adventures from Scotland. The podcast reflects on the evolution of sheep farming and the challenges of transport through harsh conditions. Personal stories reveal the deep ties between farming, winemaking, and the legacy of perseverance that continues to inspire new generations.

Ian Henderson, a professor at the forefront of antibiotic resistance research, shares his insights on combating superbugs. He explores the rich history of antibiotics, from Fleming’s penicillin to modern resistance challenges. The discussion delves into innovative therapies, including vampire therapy and spider venom, and highlights the urgent need for new treatment strategies. Henderson emphasizes the role of bacteria in ecosystems and the importance of global collaboration to develop effective antibiotics and vaccines against this looming health crisis.

In this engaging discussion, Jeffrey Broadfield, a master maker and bespoke carpenter, shares his remarkable journey from a childhood in a tin shed to creating dream homes with recycled Australian hardwood. He reflects on the dying art of craftsmanship, innovative building techniques, and the sensory impact of timber in design. Jeffrey also dives into nostalgia for his rural roots, memories of family, and the vibrant creative community he became part of. His stories highlight the deep connections between love, architecture, and the joy of collaborative creation.

Chef Josh Niland, an advocate for sustainable seafood, shares his revolutionary approach to cooking by utilizing the entire fish. He talks about his creative use of fish parts like eyes, livers, and sperm, and emphasizes the importance of making fishing sustainable. Niland reflects on his childhood fishing memories and a personal health crisis that fueled his culinary passion. He also discusses innovative techniques to enhance fish flavors, drawing inspiration from global cuisine, and aims to transform perceptions about seafood.

Dr. Hugh Thomas, an archaeologist passionate about ancient mortuary practices, delves into the enigmas of Saudi Arabia's deserts. He discusses monumental structures called mustatils and their potential ritualistic purposes dating back thousands of years. The conversation uncovers fascinating discoveries about Neolithic cattle domestication, burial rituals, and ancient rock art. Thomas also sheds light on the use of innovative techniques like proteomics in archaeology, revealing the shifting connections between ancient societies and their landscapes.

Ji Wallace, a former national champion gymnast and acrobat, shares his inspiring journey from a young trampoline enthusiast in Brisbane to representing Australia at the Olympics. He recounts facing a life-altering injury and the emotional turmoil of being diagnosed with HIV. Ji discusses the thrill of competing for gold and the community support during tough times. He also reflects on his role as a coach, fostering future athletes while embracing love and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community, showing that life's highs and lows can lead to profound new directions.

Duncan McKellar, a psychiatrist and author of a pivotal report that led to a Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, shares his insights on elderly care. He emphasizes the importance of understanding patients' life stories to improve their care experience. The conversation reveals emotional struggles families face, the toxic culture in care facilities, and innovative solutions like values-based recruitment. McKellar also discusses creative approaches in dementia care, including a musical inspired by his experiences, showcasing the transformative power of empathy.

James Earl Jones, a legendary actor known for his iconic voice, shares his inspiring journey from childhood stuttering to becoming a cinema legend. He recounts the pivotal role an English teacher played in his life, enabling his transition from a segregated South to impactful storytelling. The podcast dives into the complexities of identity and activism through roles in 'The Great White Hope' and the cultural significance of 'Doctor Strangelove.' Jones also reflects on voicing beloved characters like Darth Vader and Mufasa, highlighting the emotional depth in his performances.

From sharks with wheels of teeth, to gargantuan sharks like the megalodon, palaeontologist John Long has traced the long and storied history of these oceanic hunters.Sharks and humans have a complicated relationship.We have long considered them monsters and super predators that should be eliminated for our own safety.But sharks are much more than scary and fearsome.The history of this incredible animal stretches back hundreds of millions of years.From sharks with wheels of teeth, to the ascent of the super predators like the megalodon, palaeontologist John Long has traced the long and storied history of these hunters, asking how they've managed to survive extinction despite everything that's been thrown at them.This episode of Conversations explores science, origin stories, ancient history, sharks, palaeontology, the ocean, climate change, megalodon, hunting and predators.Further informationThe Secret History of Sharks: The Rise of the Ocean's Most Fearsome Predators is published by HachetteTo 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, singers, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.