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 Entwisle who has been made an Officer of the Order of Australia.

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?

In this edition of The Conversation Hour independent economist Saul Eslake joins Mary Gearin to chat about how the recent drop in house prices could mark a shift towards seeing housing as a basic human right, over an investment opportunity. 

Also in this episode, should Victoria follow the NSW government's medicinal cannabis driving reforms? Plus, a fashion runway with a difference. 

The effectiveness of recent reforms aimed to reduce harm from alcohol delivery services has been subject to a new study from Monash University and Turning Point. The report found that four in ten Victorians surveyed had received an alcohol delivery while intoxicated, despite the reforms prohibiting delivering to consumers who are intoxicated or appear intoxicated. In this edition of the Conversation Hour we explore the report findings and also discuss the impact of on delivery drivers, who now face the pressures of having to assess whether the customer is intoxicated and whether they need to withhold the order.

Also in this edition, philosopher Peter Singer on effective altruism. And later in the hour will cricket be privatised?

Recent data indicates that almost 20 per cent of Australian students don't finish school, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we explore how schools are best placed to retain students.

Also in this edition, tax tips with the ATO, the return of Serena Williams, birthdays in the age of social media and could Australia's scam prevention program be improved?

New figures have indicated that Victorian students are missing more than seven million days of classes each year in part due to parents taking them on holiday. In this edition of The Conversation we look at just how prevalent this is becoming and why some parents opt to travel during the semester.

Also in this edition, will we see the rise of progressive populism in Australia?Plus why Melbourne loves to wear black. 

New research from Jean Hailes and Dementia Australia has revealed that most women are unaware of the factors that my contribute to their dementia risk, as well as the mortality rates. In this edition of the Conversation we talk what can reduce your dementia risk.

Also in this edition, why Gen Z loves the 90s and the rise of line dancing.

In this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk the sexual health of older Australians and how it is an often neglected area of research, particularly when it comes to sexually transmitted diseases.

Also in this edition, dealing with 'scanxiety' after a blood cancer diagnosis. Plus, is 'baby brain' really a thing?

In the wake of Brad Scott's departure from Essendon, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with AFL legends Kevin Sheedy and Joel Bowden about what makes a great coach.

Also, in this edition preventing child criminal exploitation, why younger generations are favouring texts over calls, plus we pay tribute to a family run business that is closing its doors after 172 years

With the sad passing of Neale Daniher in this edition of The Conversation Hour we reflect on his legacy and also speak with an MND researcher about the disease.

Also in this episode, the sacking of Brad Scott from Essendon, gun control in Victoria plus what Pope Leo XIV thinks about AI.