

Life Matters - Full program podcast
ABC Australia
Helping you figure out all the big stuff in life: relationships, health, money, work and the world. Let's talk! With trusted experts and your stories, Life Matters is all about what matters to you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 12, 2025 • 53min
The lessons we learn in relationships, and what to do when your family doesn't "do feelings"
Was there a moment that made you realise you had to evolve your relationship style? And in Ask Aunty, how to navigate a family that isn't good at talking, listening, and validating.

Jun 11, 2025 • 55min
Changes to liquor laws aim to curb family violence, and is it acceptable to discipline other people's children?
Changes to alcohol delivery laws aim to prevent family violence. Meanwhile, the Buy Now Pay Later industry has undergone an overhaul, with new regulations coming into force this week. Plus, the Australian Government has updated its COVID vaccination guidelines website. And, should you parent someone else's child?

Jun 10, 2025 • 55min
The extreme things we do for a crush, and fears after another Australian embryo mix-up
Have you ever pretended you're someone you're not, in order to impress a new love interest? And, shock after another embryo error at one of Australia's biggest fertility companies. Plus, does travel open our eyes or put fragile places at risk?

Jun 9, 2025 • 55min
How to ensure boys embrace reading, and why do families keep secrets?
When it comes to reading, Aussie boys aren't keeping up with girls and the gap is getting wider. Why do families keep secrets... and what makes people finally reveal the truth? Plus, new research suggests that taking photos can be surprisingly powerful. And what happens when a business partnership fails?

Jun 8, 2025 • 55min
New guidelines for cosmetic injectables, and what happens when you donate your body to science?
Australia's medical regulator last week introduced new safeguards aimed at protecting young people from potentially dangerous side-effects of non-invasive cosmetic procedures. Plus, the University of Queensland's body donor program has stopped accepting bodies. Turns out, so many people want to donate ... they've run out of space. And, have mobile phones taken over our lives like parasites?

Jun 5, 2025 • 53min
The changes that parenting brings to your life, and is it wise to get involved in your child's friendships?
There is no manual or perfect guide to tell you how to raise a child, everyone just kind of figures it out as they go. So, how has being a parent changed you? And in Ask Aunty, if another child is being mean to your little one... should you get involved?

Jun 4, 2025 • 55min
The push for Australia to invest more in the gaming industry, and why is grey divorce a phenomenon?
Should Australia offer more support to the gaming industry? Why is later-in-life divorce becoming more common? Plus, musician Sarah McLeod offers her thoughts about money. And, is a university degree worth it?

Jun 3, 2025 • 55min
A legal test case for the Right to Disconnect, and new data about forever chemicals
How have the Right to Disconnect laws impacted your work life? And, new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that 85% of Australians have at least three types of forever chemicals in their blood. Plus, what's the best way to protect vulnerable people from cyber scams?

Jun 2, 2025 • 55min
How to respond to a mental health crisis, and should you withdraw your super early?
A call to emergency services can save lives, but what should you do when you see someone in mental health crisis? What are the long-term effects on your finances when you dip into your super early? Also, Gen Zs have identified "recession indicators", but what's the reality? And, why do some people love the thrill of extreme sports?

Jun 1, 2025 • 55min
Changes set to make an ADHD diagnosis easier for some patients, and retiring comfortably on a budget
Is an ADHD diagnosis set to become easier and more accessible? How can you lead a comfortable and fulfilled retirement without spending a fortune? Also, new family law changes aim to make splits fairer ... even for the family dog.


