Life Matters - Full program podcast

Some smokers say vaping nicotine has helped them quit cigarettes for good, but how strong is the evidence for the efficacy and long term safety of this approach? Plus a discussion about the way we consider and treat wild animals, and stories of lust, love and loss from war.

With the emergence of the new Omicron variant around the globe, is Australia doing it's part to contribute to international vaccination efforts? And, if you're planning a trip overseas or inter-state in the not too distant future, how are you preparing before you go?

Today, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide begins public hearings in Brisbane. Veteran experts, who are using their training in psychiatry and sociology to help other service people, join Life Matters to discuss their work. Listeners share insights into defence life and discuss the changes they hope will flow from the royal commission.

How do you find the motivation and time to exercise if you've been inactive for a while? Plus, not all kids are returning to swimming lessons and swim educators say that's a problem. And what do you do when your flatmate's new dog begins to encroach on your life?

From February 1st 2022, the Austrian government will make covid-19 vaccinations mandatory for all their citizens, the first country in Europe to do so. So what is the future of covid-19 vaccine mandates in this country? Plus we take your calls on how you've overcome inertia of a 'loyalty tax' in shopping for better deals on loans, insurance, and other financial contracts.

Advocates say there is still a lot of work to be done to remove barriers to employment for those living with disability, we explore some of the actions that could help. Plus how to 'move on' when you know you've already invested too much in something or someone, and why one woman made a suit from men's moustache hair.

New research shows many of us still don't include sun protection in our daily routine. Is it time for the next Slip, Slop, Slap campaign? Also, meet the founder of a nation-wide network of women from migrant and refugee backgrounds aiming to secure their futures through business. And how can 15 minutes of mentoring per week improve student happiness?

There is a long and proud history of independent politicians playing a part in this country’s parliaments. But is this an effective form of representation for voters and does it end up getting the results people are looking for when they vote these candidates in? Life Matters speaks to the experts and we hear from listeners about their past and future voting patterns around independents.

Veena Sahajwalla, Inventor and 2022 NSW Australian of the Year, on turning to waste as a solution to the climate crisis. Plus, creating sustainability through what we eat. And what can you do when a pair of silk pillowcases becomes the unwanted prize in an instance of regifting gone wrong?

When children go missing the impact on family and community can be profound, Majak Daw reflects back on his career as the first African born player to play professional AFL, and how to separate real sustainability from what's becoming rampant 'greenwashing'.