Loneliness appears to be on the rise, especially for elderly people, even those with good family support. Red Cross in Australia is funded to coordinate a team of volunteers that can give an elderly person a daily "check up" call or a longer friendly chat.Here we talk about the service, and the vital part that volunteers play, not just substituting for paid staff.

Australia is one of the top nations when it comes to loosing money on gambling of all sorts. But the effects of gambling are not just economic. Here we explore a recent report from a Lancet public health commission which examined the health damages caused by gambling around the world.

Parenting styles and their outcomes: choices; consequences; consistency; compassion.

The RSPCA has released it latest report on Jumps racing that shows the death rate of horses continues, in spite of claims of increased safety.

Good connection between children and parents and also with grandparents is very important in developing good mental health. Here we chat through the 7 habits for disconnection and the 7 habits for good connection.

Across Australia's rural areas pest plants and animals are a constant problem. This reports is the first of three from a Forum organized by the regional Landcare network in South East Victoria.

In previous chats we have talked about concerns many have about the effects current amounts of screen time that young people indulge in. We take that further but then explore the idea also previously raised that "we are not our thoughts".

Although in limited quantities and thus relatively expensive, indigenous food crops are being produced on a farm in East Gippsaland, and may offer a new option for sustainable farming. Ian Hill reports.

Busstop films is a production, training and work placement organization that develops opportunities for people with disabilities to make films and gain work in the media both behind and in front of the camera. With recent success in several people working on the TV coverage of the Paralympics and many submissions to film festivals, this episode explores how and why Busstop films achieves these wins.

All those wooden pallets moving around the world (and often only used once) use up forest resources, but from where? Here Ian Hill explains.