Great minds grapple with the world’s biggest challenges
Global warming. Toxic politics. A mental health crisis. The rapid rise of AI. We are facing some monumental challenges, as people and societies. It can feel overwhelming … but The Solutionists reminds you there are plenty of reasons to be hopeful.
In season 2, host Mark Scott, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Sydney, meets the people who are grappling with these challenges, and making our world a better place. (Trust us - you don’t want to miss a second!)
It kicks off with a journey into the wonderful world of pollinators. They’re vital to both people and the planet, but around the world, they’re in trouble. Entomologist Tanya Latty explains: “For a long time we had this idea in conservation biology that insects were bulletproof. There's lots of them, they're going to be around forever. That's not the case.” And while she says species are almost certainly going extinct faster than we’re naming them, there is plenty we can all do to help reverse the insects’ plight.
Host Mark Scott with University of Sydney entomologist Tanya Latty, who has plenty of tips for helping insects in your own backyard.
You’ll also meet Professor Stuart Khan, who explains why recycling our wastewater could be the key to Australia’s future water security, and Associate Professor Danny Liu, who works at the forefront of AI and education. He explores what the rise of AI means for students and teachers alike - and how it could usher in a new era of personalised learning.
Princeton University English professor Sophie Gee offers a unique perspective on why studying the arts and humanities matters in the age of AI. And it’s a perfect co-listening episode if you have teens in your life! It’ll inspire them to engage with English texts in a whole new way.
“If you’re able to tell your story, you’re able to change your life.”
Professor Sarah Maguire, the director of the Inside Out Institute for Eating Disorders, talks about the immense challenge of Australia’s deadliest mental illness, and the signs every parent should be on the lookout for.
“In an ideal world, we want freedom around food and freedom around body, and that comes through valuing and loving your body. It's an instrument to move in the world, to take you on adventures, to cuddle your friends, to cradle your child later on. It's not a thing to be judged and controlled and punished.”
And Alastair Campbell, the former press secretary of UK prime minister Tony Blair, takes you inside 10 Downing Street at some critical times in history - and offer his thoughts on the state of politics today. He also shares candid insights into his own struggles with addiction and depression.
Mark Scott and Alastair Campbell in conversation.
The big challenges we’re facing need big solutions … and that equals a big season of The Solutionists!
The Solutionists is produced by Deadset Studios. Join us for season 2 of here.