A viral graduation speech praising AI and Jeff Bezos triggered an emotional backlash from students and tapped into much bigger anxieties about work, identity, trust and the future. Associate Professor Lauren Rosewarne explores why reactions to AI are becoming so charged.

Guest: Dr Lauren Rosewarne, Associate Professor in the School of Social and Political Sciences at the University of Melbourne

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Associate Professor Lauren Rosewarne: Why a Graduation Speech About AI Sparked Outrage appeared first on JOY Drive.

The Twelve Apostles may look timeless, but scientists have uncovered a far more complex story hidden inside the cliffs themselves. Associate Professor Stephen Gallagher explains the ancient seas, microscopic fossils and dramatic geological forces that shaped one of Australia’s most iconic coastlines.

Guest: Stephen Gallagher, Associate Professor and Reader

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Associate Professor Stephen Gallagher: The Hidden History of the Twelve Apostles appeared first on JOY Drive.

With RATs for the flu and COVID now common in households, many Australians are testing themselves before seeing a doctor. Professor Emerita Thea van de Mortel explains how accurate the tests really are, whether expired kits still work and the mistakes that can completely throw off results.

Guest: Professor Emerita Thea van de Mortel, School of Nursing and Midwifery at Griffith University

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Professor Emerita Thea van de Mortel: Can We Trust RATs and Home Flu Tests? appeared first on JOY Drive.

Dolly Diamond joined JOY Drive ahead of Belle of the Ballroom at the Brunswick Ballroom on Sunday 17 May 2026, a night promising glamour, cabaret, chaos and a full seven-piece band. Dolly talks audiences, outrageous moments, Melbourne nightlife and why live performance still matters.

Guest: Dolly Diamond

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Dolly Diamond: ‘Belle of the Ballroom’ at the Brunswick Ballroom appeared first on JOY Drive.

As David Attenborough turned 100, Professor Brendan Wintle reflects on the extraordinary legacy of the broadcaster who changed how generations see the natural world. From wonder and storytelling to climate anxiety and hope, the conversation explores why Attenborough still matters so deeply.

Guest: Professor Brendan Wintle, Conservation Ecology at the University of Melbourne

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Professor Brendan Wintle: David Attenborough at 100 appeared first on JOY Drive.

Allergies now affect millions of Australians, shaping everyday life at schools, restaurants and homes across the country. Dr Sandra Vale explains the Federal Government’s new funding package, what it means for treatment and education, and where allergy care is heading next.

Guest: Dr Sandra Vale, Chief Executive Officer, National Allergy Council

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Dr Sandra Vale: The Allergy Crisis and Australia’s $14.6 Million Response appeared first on JOY Drive.

Phones, earbuds, watches and cars are constantly communicating through Bluetooth, but how much information are they revealing? Professor Paul Haskell-Dowland explains what devices broadcast, how tracking works and the simple steps people can take to protect their privacy.

Guest: Professor Paul Haskell-Dowland, Cyber Security Practice and Associate Dean (International and Strategic Partnerships) in the School of Science at Edith Cowan University

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Professor Paul Haskell-Dowland: Are Our Bluetooth Devices Tracking Us? appeared first on JOY Drive.

Suzy Wrong discusses ‘This Is I’ on Netflix, a deeply personal film about identity, dignity and the experience of living under constant public scrutiny. The conversation explores empathy, vulnerability and why trans lives have become such a political flashpoint around the world.

Guest: Suzy Wrong

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Suzy Wrong: Film Review – ‘This Is I’ appeared first on JOY Drive.

AI-powered road safety cameras are issuing massive numbers of fines across Australia, sparking debate about safety, surveillance and fairness. Dr Adam Andreotta explains how the systems work, where the controversy is growing, and whether the balance between technology and common sense is shifting too far.

Guest: Dr Adam Andreotta, Lecturer, School of Management and Marketing at Curtin University

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Dr Adam Andreotta: Are AI Road Safety Cameras Protecting Us or Punishing Us? appeared first on JOY Drive.

Melbourne held the first LGBTQ+ Economists and Allies in Asia-Pacific Summit, bringing together researchers and advocates from across the region. Dr Donn Feir and Dr Patrick Yuktadatta discuss discrimination, workplace inclusion, mental health and how research can help shape safer and more equitable societies.

Guests: Dr Donn Feir, applied econometrician and economic historian at the University of Victoria, Canada; Dr Patrick Yuktadatta, Lecturer, Institute for Population and Social Research, Demography at Mahidol University, Thailand

Presenter: Warren Andrew

The post Dr Donn Feir and Dr Patrick Yuktadatta: LGBTQ+ Economists and Allies in Asia-Pacific Summit appeared first on JOY Drive.