The Conversation Hour

The impact of the Telstra on Victorian communities 08.07.2026 48Min.

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 46Min.

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 edition, a rise of delivery drivers being scammed, how AI is impacting the media landscape, plus, the blurring of reality tv and documentary.

Ensuring player safety in suburban footy 06.07.2026 51Min.

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 "space balls" wash up a Queensland beach.

Does the gambling reform legislation go far enough? 03.07.2026 50Min.

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 50Min.

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 households are in tougher economic times than in 1989 when interest rates hit 17 per cent , but can it ever really be settled which generation had it harder? Also in this edition, we tackle social media cringe and the case for line drying your clothes.

Reducing stigma toward people who experience mental health challenges 01.07.2026 50Min.

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 attitudes and how to reduce stigma and discrimination. Also in this edition, what's driving a warm winter here and a boiling summer in Europe and why there are long lines at the airports in Europe? Plus, Tasmania's Neil the seal is going viral for his somewhat raucous behaviour down at Seven Mile Beach, we talk seal behaviour and hear about your wildlife encounters. SANE Support line 1800 187 263

New school education program tackles stigma around women's health 30.06.2026 50Min.

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 Army facility which is facing closure, why hospital GPS are considering industrial action. Plus, we celebrate the rock poster ahead of Rock Posters Printing Factory opening it's doors for Open House Melbourne.

How is the shifting property market impacting your plans? 29.06.2026 52Min.

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 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au. And for further information on young onset dementia, discussed in this program, visit: forwardwithdementia.au

A Socceroos special 26.06.2026 28Min.

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 51Min.

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 with links to ISIS, who had been banned from returning, has been issued a permit to come home. International law expert Don Rothwell talks why revoking the temporary exclusion order marks uncharted territory in Australia. Plus, animal behaviourist Dr Kate Mornement takes your calls.

New study points to lack of evidence that IVF add-ons are are effective 24.06.2026 51Min.

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 he will no longer perform live, we ask you how often you see live gigs.

Does authenticity in politics matter? 23.06.2026 50Min.

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 Australia. Plus, the legacy of music executive Clive Davis who has died aged 94.

How do school suspensions impact young people? 22.06.2026 50Min.

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 51Min.

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 stateless in Australia?

Mary takes you to Mill Park Library 18.06.2026 53Min.

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 52Min.

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 51Min.

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 51Min.

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 51Min.

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 51Min.

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.