ABC

The Conversation Hour

Society EN ↓ 250 episodes

Expect engaging discussions with real people and inspiring stories connecting communities across Victoria, on The Conversation Hour with Richelle Hunt and Jonathon Kendall.

Author

ABC

Category

Society

Podcast website

www.abc.net.au

Latest episode

Jul 10, 2026

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Episodes

Celebrating NAIDOC week and Fifty Years of Deadly 10.07.2026

In this edition of the Conversation Hour Daniel James is joined by Djaran Murray-Jackson, Co-Chair of Gellung Warl, to talk Treaty and what the NAIDOC theme Fifty Years of Deadly means to him. Also in this edition, Aunty Professor Lynette Riley Co-Chair of the National NAIDOC Committee, discusses how the committee landed on this years NAIDOC theme. Plus, Daniel chats with two of this year's Nation...

The impact of the Telstra on Victorian communities 08.07.2026

As Telstra experiences a widespread network outage in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the impact on Victorian communities from business to transport, and also look at how the outage highlights the importance of having cash. Also in this edition, from Wimbledon to the World Cup — how are the big international tournaments affecting you? From when you sleep, to what you wear?

 Reducing side effects stigma for women going through cancer treatment  07.07.2026

New research has revealed that women are enduring pain and discomfort from gynaecological side effects from cancer treatments due to the stigma associate with the conditions. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with the report author about the need for health care workers to be more proactive in discussing the side effects, to ensure their patients health and wellbeing. Also in this...

Ensuring player safety in suburban footy 06.07.2026

With the devastating news that Epping footy player Nathan Fitzgerald is on end of life care after suffering head injuries, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss calls for an investigation into how hard cricket pitches are covered on multi-use community sporting ovals. Also in this edition, a peak behind the curtains at the Australian Ballet, what it takes to be a celebrant, plus are...

Does the gambling reform legislation go far enough? 03.07.2026

In this edition of The Conversation Hour Kirsten Diprose is joined by anti-gambling advocate Tim Costello who shares how he thinks the federal government gambling reforms could be improved. Also in this edition, we talk life at 60, plus cross to the States for all the latest on the rumoured Taylor Swift wedding at Madison Square Garden.

How in sync are you with the 'social clock'? 02.07.2026

It's commonly understood that there are certain unofficial markers we are meant to hit at a certain age, from getting your drivers licence to buying house. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what underpins those social pressures and how to combat the anxiety these social expectations can create. Plus, a new KPMG study says the debate is settled and that current Australian househol...

Reducing stigma toward people who experience mental health challenges 01.07.2026

A new report into the stigma and discrimination experienced by people with mental health challenges has highlighted that negative attitudes remain an ongoing issue, despite growing awareness about complex mental health conditions. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we hear from someone who lives with schizophrenia plus National Mental Health Commission to explore what underpins these attitud...

New school education program tackles stigma around women's health 30.06.2026

A new program, jointly funded by federal and state governments, will see specialist pelvic health educators visit schools to discuss women's health issues such as endometriosis, periods and pelvic pain. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what this means for reducing the mystery and stigma about women's health. Also in this edition, concerns for residents of long-term Salvation Arm...

How is the shifting property market impacting your plans? 29.06.2026

As auction clearance rates and house prices fall, in this edition of The Conversation Hour, we ask how these changes are impacting you? Also in this edition, what it is to live with young onset dementia and the new resource for people recently diagnosed. Plus, why Madonna's biopic was scrapped. If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 10...

A Socceroos special  26.06.2026

In this edition of the Conversation Hour we bring you all the action as the Socceroos gear up to compete against Paraguay. Plus, we talk the legaliteis of taking a sickie.

Zali Steggall talks Community Strong Australia 25.06.2026

Independents Allegra Spender and Zali Steggall have teamed up to form a new party which they have called Community Strong Australia. In this edition of The Conversation Hour Ms Steggall reflects on what the party will stand for and how the party will work, plus we get analysis from author and former adviser to Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd, Sean Kelly. Also in this edition, a woman living in Syria...

New study points to lack of evidence that IVF add-ons are are effective 24.06.2026

A new study from The University of Melbourne has found there is a lack of evidence that IVF add-ons improve fertility. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we  take a look at the research and discuss what resources are available to women to make informed decisions around treatment. Also in this edition, how much does emotional labour lead to work burnout? Plus, as Daryl Braithwaite announces h...

Does authenticity in politics matter? 23.06.2026

UK PM Keir Starmer has resigned, and ex-Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is favoured to take over role. Some commentary has  focused on the role of charisma in the rise  as a determinant of political success and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we ask  how much charisma, authenticity and conviction  sway who you vote for.  Also  in this edition, the broader impacts of bird flu on wildlife in...

How do school suspensions impact young people? 22.06.2026

New data obtained by The Age shows that around 150 students are suspended each school day in Victoria. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the ongoing impact of a school suspension on younger people and the correlation between suspensions and youth crime. Also in this edition, will Andy Burnham become the UK's next PM, winter swimming and could human composting be on it's way?

All eyes on Soccer in Seattle 19.06.2026

It's a big weekend ahead as the Socceroos take on the USA in Seattle in the World Cup. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with an American-Australian sports journalist to preview the game and find out who he will be barracking for. Plus, we cross to a few venues around Melbourne set to open super early about their World Cup preparations. Also in this edition, what is it to be living...

Mary takes you to Mill Park Library 18.06.2026

In this edition of The Conversation Hour we venture out to Mill Park Library for a wide ranging conversation about the role of libraries in your community, plus hear the stories of the libraries from your childhood. 

What's the future of the fabric store? 17.06.2026

With the closure of Lincraft's physical stores , in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the future of the fabric shop and what it means for dressmakers. Also in this edition, the rugby league is go, but does anyone know how to pronounce the Maroons. Plus, we catch up with Bangarra Dance Theatre artistic director Frances Rings about their latest production.

New report indicates concerning rates of drug overdose in Australia 16.06.2026

New analysis from the Penington Institute has indicated seven drug overdose fatalities per day in 2024. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what underpins this increase and what needs to happen to prevent these deaths. Also in this edition, keeping your home healthy during the winter months, orchid hunting plus is there such a thing as too much Bond?

Will petrol prices in Australia improve? 15.06.2026

With news of the US and Iran agreeing to a ceasefire deal, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we explore what this will mean for petrol prices in Australia. Also in this edition, we look at plans to create a new 13-day hiking trail along the Yarra, talk men's health, plus catch up with Vika and Linda Bull to celebrate their induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame.

Celebrating Spiderbait 12.06.2026

Last night saw six Australian acts join ARIA's Hall of Fame including 3-piece rockers Spiderbait. In this edition of The Conversation Hour Mary catches up with Janet English, the bands bassists and vocalist, to reflect on the band's legacy.  Also in this edition, a new PFAS class action, plus the politics of The World Cup.

Improving the life of tenants 11.06.2026

From installing solar panels to getting rid of mould, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at what landlords could and should to to improve the life of renters. Also in this edition, preventing the illegal operation of solariums, plus, the story of your wool jumper.

Have we forgotten how to behave at the theatre? 10.06.2026

You may have seen the video of actor Rosamund Pike reprimanding an audience member for texting during a piece of theatre. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what considerate theatre behaviour should look like and just how much mobile phones are impacting our manners. Also in this edition, we cross the MCG ahead of Neale Daniher's state funeral, talk the popularity of bird watching...

How much does social class determine who you vote for? 09.06.2026

In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore the connection between social class and the way we vote , and whether politicians have misunderstood the so called working class. Also in this edition, new research into the mental health of renters, declining rates of young people having the HPV vaccine. Plus, a stoush in the magic community over the exclusion of a robot magician from The Magic...

Remembering Richard Scolyer 08.06.2026

Former Australian of the Year and leading melanoma researcher and pathologist , Professor Richard Scolyer, has died aged 59. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we pay tribute to him and also reflect on what it is to live with a life threatening illness. Plus, later in the program combating marine trafficking, a guide to understanding the 'beautiful game' and we catch up with botanist Tim Ent...

Are female voters moving to the far-right? 05.06.2026

Recent polling has indicated that Pauline Hanson is the most popular party leader among women voters, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore whether women voting for the far-right is part of a broader global trend. Also in this edition, staying safe in the snow, why park rangers are taking industrial action. Plus, do you keep a journal?

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