The Conversation Hour

To mark Mary's final show hosting the Conversation Hour, in this edition of the program we celebrate the art of the conversation, what it means to be curious and how to cultivate the skill of really listening.Also in this edition, concern about a rise in anaphylaxis associated with unapproved peptides, a preview of the USA midterms, plus understanding the legacy of actor Patrick Stewart. 

In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss some new research from Swinburn University that highlights the financial risks people in share houses experience and what could be done to better support renters in financially precarious situations.Also in this edition, concerns about a new alternate IVF trend, celebrating the small pockets of biodiversity in Melbourne. Plus, the rise and rise of romantasy.

Australia is heading towards recording its highest number of road deaths in 15 yeas, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what underpins this trend and what measures need to be put in place to prevent people from dying on our roads.Also in this edition, Peter Norden talks life after 40 years as a priest. Plus, are you a music snob?

Labour have made an election promise to ban violent patients from Victorian hospitals for a year in a move to bolster the safety of healthcare workers. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what that means for people with complex mental health issues and whether improving mental health resourcing could be a more productive measure.Also in this edition, a look at the TGA proposed sunscreen reform, the startup that wants to sell sunlight, plus we celebrate Victoria's tree of the year.

With calls to cool the current political climate, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore whether preventing online anonymity could be one measure in tackling the issue.Also in this edition, a look at the annual Foodbank Hunger report , plus the latest from the Brazil elections.

New data from the ATO has revealed that Australians have withdrawn over 1.4 billion in medical costs over the last financial year. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss why dental procedures have ranked so high and why there is concern about patients using their superannuation for inappropriate services such as cosmetic procedures.Also in this edition, the latest on the Brazil elections. Plus, does Victoria have its own dialect?

Independent MP Helen Haines was critically injured yesterday afternoon in Wangaratta in a targeted attack. While charges have not yet been laid, and no political motive has been established, in this edition of the Conversation Hour Mary Gearin is joined by a range of guests to discuss the current political and social environment in the wake of the attack.Also in this episode, the importance of representation of older women in the fashion industry. Plus, Bon Jovi announces Australian tour, we hear your memories of the band.

New laws designed to combat underquoting and improve price transparency will come into place this weekend. Real estate agents will be required to disclose the reserve a week before auction. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss how these laws will impact the property market.Also in this edition, concern that Australia's hospital system is not equipped to support the growing number of older patients presenting at emergency. Plus, how much fibre should you have in your diet.

A draft national plan has outlined a strategy in in protecting Australian wildlife against the threat posed by the red fox, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore just how much of a problem foxes are in Melbourne and what wildlife is most at risk.Also in this edition, new research indicates cannabis-related hospital admissions have increased, we talk what is behind these growing rates. Plus, how earwax could be impacting your hearing, and Powderfinger reunite!

Legislation to stop life insurers from using adverse genetic tests came into place this week. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what this landmark law reform will mean for early detection of disease. Also in this edition, the Beach Boys hit Good Vibrations turns 60 today, we hear about the extraordinary production process that went into making the hit. Plus, the common words that have a mysterious origin.