Changemaker Q&A

In this episode of Changemaker Q&A, we dive deep into the concept of transformative power and its critical role in creating meaningful change. Drawing from years of doctoral research, we unpack the four types of power—Power For, Power Within, Power To, and Power With—and explore how they shape the process of empowerment. Learn how these domains of power intersect with the four planes of being—...

In this episode of Changemaker Q&A, we dive into the essential components of an impact blueprint—a step-by-step guide to turning your changemaking vision into reality. Host Tiyana J shares insights from her journey, including lessons from completing a PhD and transitioning into leading the Humanitarian Changemakers Network full-time. 📰 Read the accompanying article for this podcast episode ⁠⁠...

This episode of Changemaker Q&A is an exciting one- I'm finally ready to share my explanatory framework of empowerment from my doctoral research! After presenting the framework at an international conference (I'll share the paper here when it's published), I wanted to share the philosophy/theoretical underpinnings of the framework for anyone who is interested in how/why my research...

In this episode, we unravel the profound connection between spirituality and science to challenge traditional notions of manifestation, stripping away the new-age veneer to explore its philosophical roots. Drawing inspiration from gravity and scientific laws, we delve into the nuanced process of intentionally manifesting social change. Discover how positive thinking, visionary practices, and inten...

“How can you do a PhD on a topic soooo subjective… as an Industrial Hygienist have to read so many scientific articles from research and a lot are so inconclusive basically *use at your own risk, *needs more research, etc. can't imagine research about a word like empowerment.” This is a common question I get asked as a social researcher, which opens the door to a broader discussion about the o...

In the realm of social justice, our pursuit for change often navigates through various channels, methodologies, and practices. Amidst this landscape, the integration of mindfulness emerges as a pivotal tool, offering not just personal development but a transformative force within social movements. Traditionally focused on individual well-being, mindfulness extends its impact to the collective when...

Beyond just gardening or sustainable living, the integration of permaculture design principles can offer us a surprisingly useful framework for social change. The first of these principles is Observation and Interaction, which like other permaculture principles transcends the agricultural context, offering invaluable insights and methodologies applicable to social change endeavours guided by desig...

Catalytic Thinking, a theory rooted in the philosophy of abundance, initially proposed by Hilde Gottlieb, urging a reframe of questions, fostering collaboration, and highlighting its transformative potential in driving meaningful, enduring change. In this episode, we invite listeners to join in fostering a future where abundance is not an aspiration but a shared reality through collaboration, comp...

While it may sound academic and complex, systems-thinking holds profound potential and applications in our efforts to drive positive change in the world. In this episode of Changemaker Q&A, we delve into what systems thinking is, its history, and why it's crucial for addressing 'wicked problems' in society. 📰 Read the accompanying article for this podcast episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠...

As we approach the turn of a new year, our intentions often align with resolutions aimed at self-improvement. For Ashley, a member of our community working in the non-profit sector, the focus for the upcoming year is on self-care and self-development. The final 2023 podcast episode dives deep into Ashley's questions about self-development for social change through the Inner Development Goals (...

“What does it mean to live a good life and how do we assess our life?” In this podcast episode, Tiyana explores various perspectives on what constitutes a good life, considering the ethical, cultural, and societal viewpoints that influence this complex question, and shares her personal framework for conscious living that helps changemakers align their values, passions, and purpose to create a fulf...

“What are the UN’s SDG’s?” In this episode, Tiyana gives her hot take on the UN’s SDGs, exploring how they are a significant improvement on their predecessors, the MDGs, while being critical of some of the shortfalls of the framework when it comes to measuring success. 📰 Read the accompanying article for this podcast episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ . ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠...

"Whether or not something is ethical tends to be quite subjective… We hear a lot about ethical consumption or ethical investing, but how should we assess whether something is ethical?" Ethics, the study of what is morally good or right, and the assessment of ethical matters is a topic that resonates with many changemakers. Given my background in philosophy, I was keen to delved into the...

In this panel discussion at the New Economy Network Australia, youth activists shared their experiences and insights on fighting for a post-capitalist world. The participants discussed their involvement in social, cultural, and political transformation, highlighted the importance of understanding the impacts of modernity in Australia and beyond, and ecological collapse. Tarik, a postgraduate stude...

“I’m thinking about doing a PhD, how do I know if it’s right for me?” Deciding whether to pursue a Ph. D. is a significant life and career decision that demands careful consideration. If you're contemplating a Ph. D. it's crucial to weigh the various factors and determine if this path aligns with both your professional aspirations, and your mission as a changemaker. 📰 Read the accompanying articl...

In a world increasingly interconnected through social media, the power to shape narratives and drive social change has never been more accessible… but how do we do so in a way that avoids slacktivism and only further adding to the noise. In this episode, we explore meaningful social media use, tips and tricks to consider before posting, and some useful framework when sharing content or engaging in...

“Australia voted NO to an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, what do we do now?” In this episode, we’ll be discussing how changemakers can we advocate for a formal recognition of Australia’s Indigenous history, and how can we better work to close the gap moving forward… beginning with creating our shared vision for the future, and developing a theory of change — an essential tool for any changemaking...

We’re back with a brand new season of changemaker Q&A, and in this episode Tiyana (re)ntroduces herself for our new listeners, and answers one of her favourite questions for new social changemakers. “What is the one piece of advice you’d give to anyone starting out in the social change space?” 📰 Read the accompanying article for this podcast episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠...