15.11.24
What Happens Next?
Can Good Stories Help Save the Planet? | 97

When it comes to climate change, data alone often fails to inspire action. But across the Indo-Pacific, communities are reframing climate communication by shifting from statistics to human-centred storytelling. This episode of “What Happens Next?” explores how real stories of resilience, innovation and traditional knowledge are adding new plotlines to the narrative of climate change, helping us understand its impacts on a deeper level.

Host Dr Susan Carland speaks with frontline storytellers who are amplifying local voices – from communities adapting to rising sea levels to Indigenous leaders drawing on age-old wisdom to combat environmental challenges. Expert outline how these narratives bridge the gap between global issues and local experiences, making climate science relevant to daily life.

You’ll hear about groundbreaking projects like Monash University’s Global Immersion Guarantee program, which sends students to witness climate impacts firsthand, and RISE (Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments), a collaborative effort combining traditional and modern methods to address climate challenges in challenging urban environments. By focusing on the lived experiences of those directly affected, the episode highlights how storytelling can transform climate awareness into meaningful action. 

Tune in to discover why the stories we tell might just help save the planet.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• Part One: Will Climate Change Wipe Out the Indo-Pacific?

• RISE Indonesia: Revitalising informal settlements in Makassar

• Why we need disability-inclusive climate change adaptation plans

“What Happens Next?” will be back next week with an all-new topic.

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, or rate or review “What Happens Next?” to help listeners like yourself discover it.

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8.11.24
What Happens Next?
Will Climate Change Wipe Out the Indo-Pacific? | 96

Explore the mounting climate challenges facing the Indo-Pacific, Monash University’s home and a region at the frontline of the global environmental crisis. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events and record-breaking heat are reshaping the lives of millions, but these issues are more than just numbers and projections—they’re personal, cultural and immediate.

Host Dr Susan Carland speaks with experts from Monash, including Professor Tony Capon, Dr Gabriel García Ochoa, Dr Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson, Dr Elissa Waters and Professor Christian Jakob. Together, they discuss why the Indo-Pacific’s unique vulnerabilities demand urgent action and how the stories we tell about climate change impact our willingness to act.

Dr García Ochoa highlights the power—and dangers—of storytelling, explaining how compelling but simplified narratives can either inspire change or undermine it. Dr Jackson shares the deeply personal cost of climate impacts on Pacific Island communities, whose connection to the land is both cultural and ancestral. Meanwhile, Dr Waters calls for nuanced narratives that recognise the resilience and rights of Pacific Islanders, emphasising that adaptation, not just relocation, is key.

As COP29 approaches, this episode calls for global attention on the Indo-Pacific’s fight for survival.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• Why Are We So Anxious About Earth? – Monash University 
• What Happens Next?: Is Australia Behind in the Critical Minerals Race? – Monash University 
• The impact of climate change on human health – Monash Lens 

“What Happens Next?” will be back next week with part two of this series, ‘Can Good Stories Help Save the Planet?’.

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, or rate or review “What Happens Next?” to help listeners like yourself discover it.

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1.11.24 
What Happens Next? 
Can We Create a Better Reality? | 95 

In this thought-provoking episode of "What Happens Next?", Dr Susan Carland and her guests explore how emerging technologies like AI and robotics could help build a more equitable future. Following last week's examination of AI risks, we shift focus to the unprecedented opportunities for social good these tools present.

Leading experts – including Monash Data Futures Institute Director Professor Joanna Batstone, Robotics Australia Group chair Dr Sue Keay, Monash Faculty of Information Technology’s Professor Geoff Webb, and Monash Faculty of Arts’ Associate Professors Stephanie Collins and Ben Wellings – reveal how AI and robotics are already transforming healthcare, democracy, agriculture and elder care. They discuss fascinating innovations, from AI-powered crop monitoring systems helping Kenyan farmers to robots providing non-judgmental support for the elderly.

The conversation takes an important turn as Professor Chris Lawrence shares how Indigenous knowledge systems are being integrated into technology development at Monash, ensuring new innovations truly serve their intended users. Meanwhile, futurist Dr Ben Hamer highlights AI's potential $600 billion contribution to Australia's economy, while emphasising the need to focus on enhancing rather than replacing human capabilities.

We’re at a technological crossroads, and the experts agree – success lies in balancing innovation with responsible development. They outline practical steps toward implementing appropriate governance frameworks, ensuring inclusive design and maintaining human oversight.

Join Monash as we envision a future where technology serves humanity's highest aspirations, from strengthening democratic processes to revolutionising healthcare and education.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• Part one: Will AI Cut Us off from Reality?
• Star man: From a childhood dream to an Indigenous academy shooting for space 
• ChatGPT: Old AI problems in a new guise, new problems in disguise 

“What Happens Next?” will be back next week with an all-new topic.

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, or rate or review “What Happens Next?” to help listeners like yourself discover it.

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25.10.24
What Happens Next?
Will AI Cut Us Off from Reality? | 94

In the Season 9 premiere of Monash University’s “What Happens Next?”, host Dr Susan Carland and her expert guests examine one of today’s most urgent topics: the impact of artificial intelligence on our perception of reality.

With AI technology evolving rapidly, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish fact from fiction. From deepfakes that manipulate visual truth to AI companions offering mental health support, AI is reshaping how we interact with the world—and each other.

In this episode, experts explore the ethical, psychological and societal implications of these advancements. Professor Geoff Webb from Monash’s Faculty of Information Technology discusses how far AI capabilities have come in just a few years, while futurist Dr Ben Hamer warns of the dangers deepfakes pose to democracy and daily life. Dr Sue Keay, Chair of Robotics Australia, highlights the rise of humanoid robots and how they’re changing human-AI interaction, and Professor Joanna Batstone outlines the evolving relationship between humans and machines. Associate professors Ben Wellings and Stephanie Collins discuss the implications of emerging technology on politics and philosophy.

The episode also touches on the psychological impact of new technology, including the emerging phenomenon of “robotic nudging” and the value and drawbacks of AI companions. It’s an enlightening—and cautionary—preview of how these technologies could shape our future.

Listen now to hear how we can harness AI’s potential while navigating the ethical minefield it creates.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• Are Our Machines a Little Too Human?
• Are Humans About to Evolve?
• When can I get my new household robot?

“What Happens Next?” will be back next week with part two of this series, ‘Can We Create a Better Reality?’.

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe and rate or review “What Happens Next?” to help listeners like yourself discover it.

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What if today is the day you change the world?

Monash University’s multi-award-winning “What Happens Next?” podcast returns soon for its ninth season.

Join your host, Dr Susan Carland, as she addresses a new set of topics that will define our future. This season, she explores the changing nature of reality in our digital age, the climate crisis facing the Indo-Pacific and the ongoing struggle to eliminate gender-based violence.

Join Susan and her expert guests –  including tech visionaries, climate scientists, and social justice advocates – as they examine the future we're hurtling towards if we don't change course, envision the future we could create if we take action and, most importantly, explore how we can work together to build the kind of future we all want.

Subscribe now so you don't miss this exciting new season! Already a subscriber? Help others find the show by giving “What Happens Next?” a five-star rating and review.

Can’t wait to find out what happens next? Explore our back catalogue.

A full transcript of this trailer is available on Monash Lens.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10.11.23
What Happens Next?
Can We Learn to Be More Civil? | 93

New this season: Subscribe to Monash’s YouTube channel to watch the video version of each episode.

With the advent of social media, conversations and disagreements are magnified. But as our exchanges become increasingly digital, we must remember that behind every screen, there’s a fellow human being.

In the last episode of Season 8, Dr Susan Carland’s expert guests highlight the importance of maintaining civility, and its role in preserving democratic principles and collective pursuit of the common good.

Dr Amanda Stephens emphasises the importance of being aware of our mindset before engaging with others.

Dr Steven Zech points out that building cooperation – whether it’s between governments or individuals – takes time, and it can be lost in a moment.

Professor Lucas Walsh calls attention to the need to educate young people about common challenges such as climate change that demand collective solutions.

Associate Professor Helen Forbes-Mewett recognises the significance of civility as a cornerstone of social cohesion, particularly in multicultural societies.

Scott Stephens, co-host of ABC Radio National’s The Minefield, emphasises the essential nature of face-to-face interactions for understanding the moral reality of another person.

Finally, academic and presenter Dr Waleed Aly identifies the ways we can remove contempt and engage in good faith with people whose views we oppose.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• Ripple effect: The social consequences of the ‘everyday’ hate crime
• Hi, neighbour: The dynamics that shape Melbourne's inter-ethnic relationships
• Why do people tailgate? A psychologist explains what's behind this common (and annoying) driving habit

Thank you for joining us for Season 8 of “What Happens Next?”. We’ll be back with all-new episodes in a few short months. Explore our back catalog or watch your favourite episodes.

Don’t forget to subscribe to be notified about our next season, and rate or review the show to help others discover it.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

3.11.23
What Happens Next?
Are We Getting More Rude? | 92

New this season: Subscribe to Monash’s YouTube channel to watch the video version of each full episode.

Lockdown helped stop the spread of COVID-19, but it didn’t do our social skills any favours. Have we forgotten how to get along?

Civility goes beyond simple politeness  – it’s a crucial virtue that binds people together. It’s also essential for maintaining democracy.

This week, host Dr Susan Carland is joined by world-leading journalists, commentators and academics for an investigation of civility.

Are we getting more rude? Monash University’s Dr Steven Zech talks about the concerning trend of increasing incivility among certain groups, especially politicians.

Dr Amanda Stephens, of Monash’s Accident Research Centre, discusses road rage and the “de-identifying bubbles” of our cars.

As our society becomes more individualised, finding shared values and a mutual understanding of the common good becomes a critical challenge. Without them, says education expert Professor Lucas Walsh, a breakdown of civility in public discourse is inevitable.

Engaging civilly means inviting responses and acknowledging humanity. Dr Waleed Aly and Scott Stephens, co-hosts of The Minefield, consider the issue of contempt, highlighting how it can erode the foundation of a democratic society.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• Anger and aggressive driving all the rage on our roads
• The Oscars slap raises important moral question about civility and incivility
• Scanlon report: Taking Australia's temperature on migration attitudes

“What Happens Next?” will be back next week with part two of this series and our final episode of the season: ‘Can We Learn to Be More Civil?’.

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, or rate or review “What Happens Next?” to help listeners like yourself discover it.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

27.10.23
What Happens Next?
Can Escapism Be Good for Us? | 91

New this season: Subscribe to Monash’s YouTube channel to watch the video version of each full episode.

Content warning: This episode contains drug references. To skip them, jump ahead to 08:04.

Whether through television, books, games, films or music, escapism serves as a crucial element of the human experience.

This week, Dr Susan Carland and her expert guests explore different forms of escapism, from pseudo-nostalgia, to live action role-playing and video games, to reality TV.

Author Michael W Clune makes a vital distinction between healthy escapism and addiction.

Monash University Business School Associate Professor Davide Orazi explains the appeal of pseudo-nostalgia and live action role-playing.

Cultural critic Dr Clem Bastow discusses the ways we can use escapism to learn about ourselves.

Monash Arts lecturer Dr Whitney Monaghan argues that we bring our full selves into our interactions with media. Are we really escaping anything after all?

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• When worlds collide: What happens when you return from an extraordinary experience?
• Game on: Unravelling the bright and dark sides of online gaming
• How video games can promote empathic learning in children

“What Happens Next?” will be back next week with an all-new topic.

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, or rate or review “What Happens Next?” to help listeners like yourself discover it.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

20.10.23
What Happens Next?
What Are We Trying to Escape? | 90

New this season: Subscribe to Monash’s YouTube channel to watch the video version of each full episode.

“What Happens Next?” returns with a new topic: escapism. From pseudo-nostalgia that transports us to imagined pasts, to the allure of live action role-play and video games, host Dr Susan Carland and her expert guests shed light on the power of escapism, the blurring of fiction and reality, and the fine line between healthy indulgence and potential addiction.

Escapism often involves seeking refuge in an alternative reality, be it through binge-watching TV shows, playing video games, or even live-action role-playing (LARPing).

But is it unhealthy to long for a place – or even a time – that you’ve never experienced? And what about the parasocial relationships we often create with fictional characters from our favourite media?

This week’s guest experts include Monash University Business School’s Associate Professor Davide Orazi, cultural critic Dr Clem Bastow, Monash’s School of Media, Film and Journalism lecturer Dr Whitney Monaghan and author Professor Michael W Clune.

Today’s episode raises questions about the balance between healthy escapism and excessive immersion, as well as the impact of escapism on individuals' ability to return to reality. Can the line become too blurred?

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• ‘Reality bleed’, and the blurred lines of live-action role-playing
• Screen time: Are we seeing ourselves on television?
• The science of addiction - A Different Lens

“What Happens Next?” will be back next week with part two of this series, ‘Can Escapism Be Good for Us?’.

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, or rate or review “What Happens Next?” to help listeners like yourself discover it.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

13.10.23
What Happens Next?
What Can Influencers Teach Us About Women and Work? | 89

New this season: Subscribe to Monash’s YouTube channel to watch the video version of each full episode.

They’re in your social media feeds, on YouTube, and these they’re days even appearing in movies. The rise of influencer culture has been meteoric, but what’s going on behind the selfie stick? And what does it have to do with gender dynamics?

This episode of Monash University’s "What Happens Next?" podcast, hosted by Dr Susan Carland, features insightful discussions with experts in the field, including public relations academic Dr Kate Fitch; Jo Stanley, co-founder and CEO of Broad Radio; and content creator Olivia White, all of whom bring their unique perspectives to the table.

Being an influencer is not just a hobby or part-time gig – it's a billion-dollar industry primarily powered by women. Nevertheless, male influencers are paid about 30 per cent more than female influencers. Kate explains that the pay gap is only the tip of the iceberg of gender inequity in this precarious line of work.

Jo, a veteran broadcaster, highlights that content creation requires a high level of skill. Influencers and content creators are adept at understanding and conveying stories that resonate with their audiences, making it appear effortless to connect with followers.

She also points out that traditional media has been slow to include female voices, perhaps as a result of unconscious bias. The rise of the internet presented an opportunity for female creators to carve out digital spaces for themselves, democratising content creation.

Mommy-blogger-turned-social-media-influencer Olivia talks about the struggle to balance authenticity with privacy. She discusses the ethics of sharing information about her children online, as well as the threat of cancel culture and algorithm changes that all influencers face.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• Wives, secretaries, bodies: How times have changed in the PR world
• How the Australian Women's Weekly spoke to '50s housewives about the Cold War
• Empathy, inclusivity key to achieving gender equality

“What Happens Next?” will be back next week with an all-new topic.

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, or rate or review “What Happens Next?” to help listeners like yourself discover it.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

06.10.23
What Happens Next?
Does Influencer Culture Have a Dark Side? | 88

New this season: Subscribe to Monash’s YouTube channel to watch the video version of each full episode.

This week on “What Happens Next?”, we’re kickstarting a new series on influencer culture.

Did you know roughly 70 per cent of influencers identify as female? Specific industry research indicates that this percentage can be even higher on certain platforms, for instance, 80 per cent of content monetisation influencers on Instagram are women.

In this new episode of Monash University’s podcast, “What Happens Next?”, Dr Susan Carland and expert guests look into the societal perceptions surrounding feminised labour. We delve into the influence of stereotypes on public perception of influencers. We also discuss the experience of living a life where every moment is an opportunity for content creation and the potential impact it may have on one's well-being.

Dr Kate Fitch from Monash University's School of Media, Film and Journalism, provides insight into the billions of dollars the influencer marketing industry creates. Based on findings by Ogilvy's research, its worth has surged from $1.7 billion to $16.4 billion over the past eight years.

Well-known influencer and content creator Olivia White gives us a first-hand account of the negative perceptions of the industry. She provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes insight into the life of a professional content creator. 

Jo Stanley, the CEO of Broad Radio and a prominent broadcaster, delves into the profound influence of gender norms and stereotypes on the media landscape. She highlights how the internet has ushered in a new era of empowerment for women, enabling them to break into an area historically dominated by men.

Additionally, Jo explores the intriguing dynamics between the public and private spheres and delves into the captivating concept of parasocial relationships.

A full transcript of this episode is available on Monash Lens.

Learn more:

• Dwelling on the positive: Escaping the pull of online 'bodily perfection'
• Smart-home technology in need of a gender reboot
• There's a fundamental need to reverse the 'pink recession'

We'll be back next week with part two in this series, "What Can Influencers Teach Us About Women and Work?".

If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to subscribe, or rate or review “What Happens Next?”  to help listeners like yourself discover it.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.