Raising the Bar Christchurch 2023

In this episode, explore the unintended consequences of human-wildlife interactions with a focus on the kea, one of Aotearoa’s most beloved native birds. While feeding birds or snapping a photo on a hike may seem harmless, these encounters are putting kea at risk. Learn how tourism and well-meaning behaviour can harm wildlife—and what changes we need to make to help protect this curious, charismat...

In this episode, explore the return of inflation with economist Stephen as he unpacks why rising prices matter more than we remember. For a generation used to stable or falling costs, inflation feels like a relic of the past—but it's back, and it’s proving tough to tame. Learn how inflation starts, why it’s so damaging, and what it takes to get it under control—and yes, why it’s a lot like try...

In this episode, delve into the complex psychology of denial with forensic psychologist Dr Stephen Ware. Why do some individuals convicted of sexual offences continue to claim innocence—even if it means missing out on rehabilitation or serving longer sentences? Dr Ware explores what denial really means, whether it increases the risk of reoffending, and how rehabilitation can still be possible—even...

In this episode, unpack the complex world of online trolling with Professor Veer. While trolling is often linked to bullying, abuse, and hate, not all trolls are destructive—some even use their tactics to build communities and spark social change. Explore the different types of trolls, what drives their behaviour, and what we can do to combat the harmful while understanding the unexpected role tro...

In this episode, explore why efforts to create positive social change often fall short with Associate Professor of Māori Wellbeing, Sacha McMeeking. Despite billions spent, real impact remains slow—and Sacha argues it's because we keep funding approaches that don’t deliver. Through powerful examples, she challenges us to rethink how change is designed and offers bold ideas for achieving deeper...

In this episode, discover why storytelling remains one of the most powerful tools for modern innovation. From advertising to social media, we use stories to connect, persuade, and make sense of the world—but in an age obsessed with data, the art of storytelling is often overlooked. Learn how mastering the way you tell a story can make your message more engaging, relatable, and unforgettable.

In this episode, explore how digital technology is reshaping the lives of young people with Cheryl Brown and Kathryn MacCallum, co-Directors of the Digital Education Futures Lab. As the line between online and offline blurs, they unpack the complex digital realities young people inhabit today. Learn how we can better support the next generation as they navigate a constantly shifting digital world—...

In this episode, unpack what we really mean when we talk about racism—and what it takes to truly be anti-racist. This talk dives into the complexities of race, the challenges of discussing racism openly, and the difference between awareness and action. Explore why anti-racism demands more than good intentions, and how confronting white supremacy requires tangible steps to dismantle the systems tha...

In this episode, explore the lasting impact of New Zealand’s closed adoption laws with researcher and advocate Annabel Ahuriri-Driscoll. Introduced in 1955, the Adoption Act severed ties between unmarried parents and their children, erasing birth identities in the name of social acceptability. Annabel shares her personal story and research to highlight why reform is long overdue—and what meaningfu...

In this episode, step into the Metaverse with insights from the Human Interface Technology Lab (HIT Lab NZ). With all the buzz about virtual worlds, what is the Metaverse really—and what can it do for us? Explore how VR is being used for everything from education to entertainment, including 360-degree Antarctic experiences and immersive games that train, teach and transform behaviour.

In this episode, journey into the heart of New Zealand’s glaciers with glaciologist Dr Heather Purdie. From deep inside crevasses to long-term monitoring in the Southern Alps, Heather reveals how glaciers serve as powerful indicators of climate change. Discover how these icy giants store water, shape landscapes, and provide a crystal-clear record of our warming world—if you can still find one.

In this episode, discover the surprisingly fun side of thermodynamics with beer as your guide. From the science of heat and work to the quirks of alcohol labelling, this talk brings thermodynamics to life through unexpected and entertaining examples. Learn why beer ice-blocks could aid weight loss, how your drink holds more than meets the eye, and why this “boring” branch of science might just cha...

In this episode, discover the hidden doomsday threat that’s already inside us—antibiotic resistance. While nuclear war and climate change dominate headlines, Professor Jack Heinemann reveals how this silent crisis has been building for decades, threatening both human health and global food systems. Learn what it will take to prevent this looming catastrophe—and how you can be part of the solution.

In this episode, explore how AI—and tools like ChatGPT—are reshaping the business world, with a closer look at the myths, challenges, and real opportunities. As companies race to boost efficiency and innovation, this talk unpacks what it really takes to build a successful human-AI relationship. Learn why thoughtful implementation matters, how AI might impact business structures, and what leaders n...

In this episode, dive into the murky world of fake knowledge and blurred truths with sociologist Santi. From social media to everyday conversations, the line between what’s real and what’s fabricated is becoming harder to define. Explore how fake narratives are created, spread, and internalised—and what this growing crisis of knowledge means for how we understand the world around us.

In this episode, discover how cutting-edge technology is tackling the inequities in breast cancer screening with researchers from the University of Canterbury. From barriers of cost and access to age-related gaps, this talk explores innovative solutions that aim to make screening more accessible, comfortable and equitable for all. Learn about the latest research promising zero slides, zero pain, z...

In this episode, explore the powerful link between what we eat and how we feel with clinical psychologist Professor Julia Rucklidge. As rates of mental health issues rise, Julia shares the growing scientific evidence that our modern diets may be part of the problem—and the solution. Learn how simple changes to nutrition, and the right supplementation, could offer a new path for supporting mental w...

In this episode, unpack the big questions around transport policy in New Zealand. Why are speed limits being lowered? Why invest in cycleways? And is it really cars—or cows—driving climate change? Join transport expert Alistair as he explores the reasons behind recent government decisions, what the evidence actually says, and what the future of transport in New Zealand could look like.

In this episode, discover the unexpected journey of historian Geoffrey Rice, whose curiosity led him from academic research to uncovering a forgotten chapter of New Zealand’s past. His book on the 1918 influenza pandemic became a key resource for the country’s 2016 Pandemic Plan. Learn how lessons from history shaped New Zealand’s swift response to COVID-19—and why understanding what went wrong la...