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What Shall We Do About...?

What Shall We Do About...?

By Sam Robinson

The world is full of problems, though most of them don’t make the headlines. Sam Robinson sits down with some prominent personalities to try to improve and perhaps even solve some of the world’s less pressing issues. Nothing too trivial will be left unturned.
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Fear w/ Lisa Millar

What Shall We Do About...?Oct 18, 2021

00:00
31:15
Fear w/ Lisa Millar

Fear w/ Lisa Millar

What are you afraid of? What scares you? And how do you overcome that fear?

We are all stopped in our tracks by something - and it's a real problem.

On the podcast this week, we're joined by journalist and host of ABC News Breakfast, Lisa Millar. Lisa has faced a number of fears over the years, including a fear of flying following a bad experience on a plane. In this conversation we also talk about the dangers associated with being a foreign correspondent, and much more.

Lisa Millar's memoir is called Daring to Fly, and you can also find Lisa on Instagram @LisaMillarTV.

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod

Facebook: @whatshallwedopod

Twitter: @whatshallwepod

Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.

Oct 18, 202131:15
Fun w/ Ben Lee
Oct 11, 202128:17
Climate Change w/ Anika Molesworth
Oct 04, 202128:04
Smoking w/ John Safran
Sep 27, 202134:14
Disability w/ Skye-Blue Henderson
Jun 22, 202129:55
Generational Gap w/ Ashley Fell
Jun 14, 202128:20
Museums w/ Marc Fennell
Jun 07, 202126:56
Heartbreak w/ Jessie Stephens
May 31, 202129:01
Redevelopment w/ Tim Ross
May 24, 202127:36
Hospitals w/ Georgie Carroll
May 17, 202127:49
Pokies w/ Tim Costello

Pokies w/ Tim Costello

While we usually tackle the world's less-pressing issues, this one is a biggie, especially here in Australia. Poker machines are commonplace in Australia - found in pubs, clubs and casinos. In fact, 20% of the world's pokies are found in Australia. They are designed to be addictive, and 15 billion dollars is lost to them every single year.

So why are they legal, especially when these machines cause so much harm? Is it because we're simply a betting nation, or is there more at play?

The Reverend Tim Costello has been working hard to bring the truth about pokies to light for decades. Tim now serves as the Chief Advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, and talks on this episode about the history of poker machines, the damage that they do, and the threats he's received along the way for being so outspoken.

Rev. Tim Costello is on Twitter @TimCostello, and you can find out more about the work of the Alliance for Gambling Reform at
pokiesplayyou.org.au. And if you or someone you know needs help, you can call the Gambling Help Hotline in Australia on 1800 858 858.

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
May 10, 202128:32
Musicals w/ Gabbi Bolt
May 03, 202128:42
Electric Vehicles w/ Kurt Johnson

Electric Vehicles w/ Kurt Johnson

Apr 26, 202125:43
Game Shows w/ Claire McNear
Apr 19, 202127:05
World Records w/ Cameron James

World Records w/ Cameron James

Since the dawn of time, people have been setting world records. Well - at least since Guinness World Records claimed the right to adjudicate such matters. There's always been something alluring about holding a world record: to claim that you can be the best person on earth at something.

And yet, in more recent years, the world record has lost its sheen. More trivial records have become more common, businesses and brands have sought the glory more than individuals, and questions have been raised over why Guinness are the gatekeepers. So, what shall we do about world records?

Comedian and Podcaster Cameron James has always been fascinated by world records, and has even investigated one that didn't appear that it could be true on the ABC podcast Finding Desperado. I connected with Cameron to talk about his discoveries, as well as the process required to actually gain a world record, which is both surprising and controversial.

Cameon James is on Twitter @iamcameronjames and you can hear his World Record investigation in the ABC podcast Finding Desperado.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Feb 01, 202126:26
Virtual Reality w/ Woodes

Virtual Reality w/ Woodes

The world of Virtual Reality has dominated tech news headlines over the last decade. By simply strapping on some goggles, a user can be transported anywhere: to a simulated experience like the real world or not. But so far, this technology is yet to be perfected, has caused a number of health and safety concerns, and it hasn't taken off as its creators would have hoped.

Elle Graham, also known as Melbourne artist and producer Woodes, has engaged with virtual reality in what she believes is a world first. Not only has she released her debut album, Crystal Ball, but she's also built the complete album virtually into the game Minecraft. I invited Woodes on to the podcast to discuss virtual reality, and the process of working with an online community to turn music into a visual virtual world.

Woodes' debut album Crystal Ball is out now, and you can keep up with her work at @WoodesMusic on Instagram, and at
woodesmusic.com.

The article mentioned in this episode is 'What Went Wrong With Virtual Reality?' by Eleanor Lawrie at the BBC.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Jan 25, 202132:12
Soccer w/ Liam Stapleton

Soccer w/ Liam Stapleton

Of all the sports that are played across Australia, soccer can't manage to rise to the top. For so long, the soccer has sat in the shadow of more popular sports including cricket, Australian rules football, and rugby league. The A-League has improved things, but there's still a long way to go until the code is as popular as it is overseas, where it is known not as 'soccer', but 'football'. So, what shall we do about soccer? Liam Stapleton, one half of Nova's Ben & Liam, is a huge soccer fan, and joined me to chat about some of the issues with the sport, and how we might be able to increase its popularity. Liam can be heard on Ben & Liam, on Nova 919 in Adelaide, and nationally on Sundays. Find him on Instagram @liamstapleton. Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so! Connect with the show: Instagram: @whatshallwedopod Facebook: @whatshallwedopod Twitter: @whatshallwepod Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Jan 18, 202133:55
Reading w/ Nat Amoore
Jan 11, 202128:27
2020 w/ Melanie Tait & Tali Aualiitia

2020 w/ Melanie Tait & Tali Aualiitia

2020 is just days away from being over. A year where we experienced lockdowns, isolation, job losses, and for many of us, the loss of loved ones. A year where making plans was near impossible.

So, what shall we do about 2020? With many of us writing the year off as the worst ever, can we glean anything positive from the experience?

To answer that question, this bumper episode features two return guests whose years have been majorly disrupted, with ruined plans leading to a real need to adapt. Playwright Melanie Tait shares what happened when her play A Broadcast Coup was shut down, and broadcaster Tali Aualiitia discusses whether she could complete her year of 'no new clothes', and whether panic buying a sewing machine aided her time in Stage 4 Lockdown in Melbourne.

Melanie Tait is on Twitter @MelanieTait, and if you're yet to hear her previous episode on Plays, click here.

Tali Aualiitia is on Twitter @TaliAualiitia, and if you're yet to hear her previous episode on Fashion, click here.

If you've had a tough year, know there's always someone who will listen at Lifeline - 13 11 14.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Dec 28, 202037:03
Watches w/ Sami Shah

Watches w/ Sami Shah

Do you own a watch? And if so, is it on your wrist, or in sitting a drawer somewhere?

As this podcast looks to solve the world's less pressing problems - this week we ask the question, what shall we do about watches? According to Guinness World Records, the timepiece jewellery was first invented in 1868, but more recently there's been a decline in popularity because we all carry around phones with clocks on it (that also provide no risk of the dreaded watch tan).

To go deeper on the history, and future, of the watch, I caught up with comedian and writer Sami Shah, who is a big fan, and collector, of the wristwatch.

Sami is on Twitter @SamiShah and you can see more of Sami's work at
thesamishah.com.

Further Reading:

Twelve Easily Avoided Mistakes New Watch Enthusiasts Make, Bloomberg

How Apple Killed the Swiss Watch Industry, Forbes

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Dec 21, 202027:25
Shopping Centres w/ Gemma Acton

Shopping Centres w/ Gemma Acton

Shopping centres - or, malls, depending where you're from - are in real trouble.

In the USA, many have closed their doors across the past decade, unable to compete with the rise of online shopping. Here in Australia, department chain Big W has been closing some stores and will continue to do so over the next few years. Target has closed some stores and 92 of the 167 Target sites earmarked for change will be converted to Kmart stores. The closure of department stores impacts shopping centres, and smaller retailers in a major way.

So, what shall we do about shopping centres? Is it possible to return the shopping centre to the fun hangout zone that it once was? And what needs to happen to ensure the shopping mall can not only survive, but thrive?

Gemma Acton is Finance Editor for the Seven Network, and in this episode offers plenty of insight into the challenges facing shopping centres around the world, especially here in Australia.

Gemma Acton is on Twitter @GemmaActon and can be seen on Seven News.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Dec 14, 202030:10
Cooking w/ Jessica Rowe
Dec 07, 202022:17
Money w/ Rick Morton

Money w/ Rick Morton

What's your relationship with money like? Do you constantly crave more of it? Are you better at spending, or saving? And how much has your upbringing impacted that relationship, or your view of dollars and cents?

Money is a huge topic that I've wanted to tackle on this podcast for some time, and it's only now that I've found the right person for the job and... he's not a financial expert.

Rick Morton grew up on a cattle station in rural Queensland, in what can only be described as poverty. He's since gone to university, become a journalist and is currently The Senior Reporter at the Saturday Paper - but his view of money is still informed from an upbringing without it. n this episode I ask Rick about growing up poor, being chased by a debt collector as an adult, and what our government and welfare systems can do better to support those going without.

Rick Morton's new book is called On Money, and I also thoroughly recommend picking up his previous work, the incredibly moving memoir One Hundred Years of Dirt. Rick Morton is on Twitter @SquigglyRick, and you can find out more at
rickmorton.com.au.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Nov 30, 202030:37
Mars w/ Dianne McGrath
Nov 23, 202032:29
Season 2 Coming Soon...
Nov 16, 202001:15
50. Conspiracy Theories w/ Maz Compton

50. Conspiracy Theories w/ Maz Compton

For centuries, we've spent time questioning what we understand to be true. Is the earth really round? Did man really walk on the moon? What is really going on at Area 51?

Conspiracy theories have always made for a fun deep dive, and with the dawn of the Internet, theories have been thrown around, debated, and even disproven. But more recently, conspiracy theories have become somewhat dangerous territory, with plenty sprouting around the origins of COVID-19. Even in the last week, QAnon, a baseless Internet conspiracy theory has been reaching news headlines. So, what shall we do about conspiracy theories, especially in the year 2020?

Maz Compton is a radio host and gym owner, who a number of years ago became obsessed with conspiracy theories. We spoke about the conspiracy theories she feels could be true, and also the importance of asking questions about the world around us.

Maz Compton can be heard alongside Gawndy on Hit NSW Breakfast, weekdays from 6-9am. You can see more of Maz's work at The Social Rebellion.

The article mentioned in this episode is 'The threads that don't connect: Covid gives Australian conspiracy theorists a common home' by Michael McGowan at The Guardian.

And a genuine thanks for your listens and downloads over the last 50 episodes. I'm absolutely thrilled to reach such a milestone after almost a year of consistent weekly episodes, and couldn't have done so without your support.

That said, this is the last episode of What Shall We Do About...? for a while, but stay subscribed for a few new episodes before the end of 2020, and another big season in 2021. I'm also working on a new podcast about a classic Australian television show, and I can assure you that you'll be the first to hear about it. So - keep connected and stay subscribed!

If you've enjoyed the show but haven't touched base, please shoot me an email at
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. I would love to hear your feedback.

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Sep 28, 202028:19
49. Compost w/ Costa Georgiadis

49. Compost w/ Costa Georgiadis

According to OzHarvest, here in Australia, we place over five million tonnes of food in landfill each and every year. This is as though one in five shopping bags that we bring home from supermarkets ends up in the bin - and 35% of the average household bin is food waste. And this doesn't need to be the way.

We all know that composting our food scraps is far better than throwing it into the bin, which makes it bound for landfill. But often we just don't know where to start when it comes to setting up our own composts at home, or we're put off by the idea of decomposing scraps in our kitchens and backyards. So, what shall we do about compost?

Thankfully, host of Gardening Australia and all-round legend Costa Georgiadis has stepped up to the plate to show us that composting is not only easy to do, but it's extremely beneficial to both us, and the world around us.

Costa can be seen on Gardening Australia, Fridays from 7:30pm on ABC TV, or anytime on iView. Costa is also on Twitter @CostasGarden and on Instragram @CostasWorld.

Here are some articles shared by Costa to help you take the next step in your composting at home:

Information on growing and composting in containers: Resourceful Renters

Story:
www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/2020-series-31-episode-11/12158524

Factsheet: www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/resourceful-renters/12155080

Trench Composting; Burying scraps straight into the ground as a compost option

Story and Factsheet : www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/trench-composting/9438032

Story and Factsheet with Tino: www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/compost-trench/10213610

Re-purposing and Old Bathtub into a Worm Farm

www.facebook.com/ABCTV/videos/1608895892466383

www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/worms-on-the-verge/9440978

____

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @
Sep 21, 202040:16
48. Space w/ Kirsten Banks

48. Space w/ Kirsten Banks

Ever since we were kids we've looked up at the night sky and felt a sense of wonder: wondering what really is out there, in our galaxy, among the planets and stars? It is still hard to comprehend that more than 50 years ago - without the technological advances we enjoy today - the human race was able to set foot on the moon.

Well now, there seems to be a whole new fascination with space. Space tourism is starting to gain traction with Elon Musk's SpaceX finding success with its test flight earlier in 2020. This year is also seeing multiple attempts by different countries to reach the red planet of Mars. But I can't help but feel that space exploration is a rich person's game - so much so that we leave the wonder and marveling that we should all be able to enjoy, to those with the wealth and equipment to report back to us. Plus, it's a scary place riddled with space junk and black holes. So, what shall we do about space?

Joining the podcast to discuss is Kirsten Banks, a 23 year old astrophysicist who loves inspiring others to get into a headspace for space, including on TikTok. We spoke about space tourism, the dangers of the universe, and whether there's life out there...

Kirsten can be found on Twitter @astrokirsten and on Instagram @astrokirsten. You can also read more of her work at
astrokirsten.com.au.

The article mentioned in this episode is 'Why are so many nations blasting off to Mars?' by Sherryn Groch at The Sydney Morning Herald.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!
Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Sep 14, 202029:53
47. Screen Time w/ Lauren Bonner
Sep 07, 202031:36
46. Curiosity w/ Corey Tutt
Aug 31, 202034:18
45. Crosswords w/ David Astle

45. Crosswords w/ David Astle

When's the last time you completed a crossword puzzle? Or, maybe, you've never done one because you believe that it's something for an older generation to complete. Either way, with print media in decline, is the crossword puzzle under threat? And will the crossword ever see the same level of popularity on a computer or tablet screen?

To discuss, I connected with English enthusiast and word nerd David Astle, who you may know as the dictionary keeper on the cult SBS game show Letters and Numbers. David has been creating crossword puzzles for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age for nearly 40 years, and has written a number of books devoted to the black and white grid. We discussed the history of the crossword puzzle, and found that my presumptions about the demise of the crossword might well be wrong.

David Astle can be found on Twitter @dontattempt. He can be heard on ABC Melbourne weeknights from 7pm, and his books Cluetopia: The Story of 100 Years of the Crossword, and Rewording the Brain are available now. You can read more about David at his website,
davidastle.com.

For more of David's tips on solving cryptic crosswords: 'Cryptic crosswords too confusing? Decipher them with these seven common clue recipes' by Simon Leo Brown at ABC Melbourne.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!
Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Aug 24, 202029:09
44. Trivia w/ Cheryl Toh
Aug 17, 202030:07
43. Our Carbon Footprint w/ Craig Reucassel

43. Our Carbon Footprint w/ Craig Reucassel

Late last year, the climate emergency was gaining real attention.

Greta Thunberg addressed the UN with her now famous 'How Dare You' speech, school students marched through capital cities, and the summer's devastating summer bushfires showed that something needs to be done. But since our world has been gripped by a pandemic, the discussion around climate change has taken somewhat of a backseat.

And honestly, it can feel like the discussion is too big for us to personally help save the planet. With so many around us with relaxed attitudes to climate change, we can wonder how our own little changes can make a difference. So, what shall we do about our carbon footprint?

Chaser member Craig Reucassel has moved on from his War on Waste to a brand new ABC series, The Fight for Planet A. He joined the podcast to discuss some simple changes that lead to a big impact, while communicating to politicians and energy providers that our planet matters.

Craig Reucassel is on Twitter @craigreucassel, and Craig's series The Fight For Planet A: Our Climate Challenge starts tonight on ABC TV at 8:30pm - and of course you can catch up on it anytime on iView.

Websites referenced in this episode:

Green Vehicle Guide

'This New App Calculates The Carbon Thumbprint You Generate By Hanging Out On Your Phone' by Matt Hopkins at Pedestrian.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!
Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Aug 10, 202027:48
42. Cats w/ Lewis McKirdy
Aug 03, 202031:31
41. TikTok w/ Josh Hawkins

41. TikTok w/ Josh Hawkins

Over the last few months, simmering behind the daily updates of COVID-19 cases, a social media app has been under scrutiny. TikTok, owned by Chinese-based company ByteDance has become massively popular with users around the world, however privacy concerns around data has seen it banned in India, and chatter suggests that the USA and Australia may follow suit.

But as many of the estimated 500 million worldwide TikTok users have suggested, many of whom are teenagers, isn't it all just a bit of harmless fun?

To help talk through this conundrum, I've invited Josh Hawkins - better known as Hi Josh - on to the show. Josh came to fame on YouTube throwing stuff over his shoulder, but has since branched out with videos on Facebook, Instagram, and yes, TikTok. In total, his videos have been viewed more than 350 million times, including a couple million on TikTok. Together we discussed the popularity of TikTok, the risks involved, and the way in which the platform has been defending itself among the Australian public.

Find Josh Hawkins on Instagram @hijosh, Facebook @hijosh, and on YouTube at @hijosh. As you might have gathered, he's also on TikTok @hijoshtiktok. Find out more about Josh at
hijosh.com.

The articles referenced in this podcast are 'Is it time to delete TikTok? A guide to the rumors and the real privacy risks.' by Geoffrey A. Fowler at The Washington Post; and 'TikTok uses newspaper ads in campaign to ease privacy concerns' by Mariam Cheik-Hussein at AdNews.

Thank you so much for listening! Hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so if you enjoyed listening! I'm always keen to hear from you.

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Jul 27, 202030:38
40. Vegetarianism w/ Zach Mander

40. Vegetarianism w/ Zach Mander

Vegetarians have often got a bad wrap, but the conversation seems to be shifting as more and more of us try to reduce meat in our diets, and fast food places introduce plant-based products like Beyond meat onto their menus. It's clear that eating vegetables is a good thing, but what shall we do about vegetarianism? How important is it that we know where our food comes from? And, how hard is it to switch from being an omnivore to a herbivore?

Enter return guest Zach Mander, who joined me all the way back in Episode 2 to fix the problems of gardening. Zach and his wife Sarah made the leap to becoming vegetarians a few years ago, and has plenty of thoughts about the conversation around vegetarians, as well as the rising popularity of plant-based products.

Zach Mander can be heard on the Collective Noun podcast, and is on Instagram @zachmander. And if you did miss them the first time around, don't forget to catch up on Zach fixing gardening in Episode 2, and Alice Zaslavsky fixing vegetables in Episode 20.

The articles referenced in this podcast are 'Surge in Aussies eating vegetarian continues' at Animals Australia, and
'Veganism And Vegetarianism Are Changing Fast Food' by Panos Mourdoukoutas at Forbes.

And thank you so much for listening. I'm blown away that we've reached 40 episodes, and there's still more in the tank. Hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so if you enjoyed listening!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Jul 20, 202036:12
39. Drawing w/ Matt Cosgrove

39. Drawing w/ Matt Cosgrove

Do you enjoy drawing? Unless you enjoy life drawing, or graphic design, it's fairly likely you only spend time doodling on the edges of notes in dull work meetings. But remember when you were a kid, and you loved drawing? In fact, it was both fun and a challenge. Why don't we draw like we used to?

I discussed all of this with Matt Cosgrove, Sydney-based author and illustrator of the hugely successful Macca the Alpaca picture books. His illustrations are gorgeous, and he is very passionate about seeing kids develop a love for drawing that extends well beyond their youth. We also spoke about his new book, his previous work drawing cartoons for game show Burgo's Catch Phrase, and how best to discover or re-discover a love of drawing, no matter your age.

Matt Cosgrove's new book Dharma the Llama is out now. Matt is on Facebook @mattcosgrovebooks, Instagram @matt.cosgrove and on Twitter @MrMattCosgrove. You can find more about Matt and his other books at his website,
mattcosgrovebooks.com.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Jul 13, 202033:46
38. Celebrity w/ Jeffrey Walker

38. Celebrity w/ Jeffrey Walker

Many of us grow up with dreams of making it big. We watch our celebrity heroes on TV and movies and hope that perhaps one day we too could be famous. Even now, we crave likes on Instagram, and views on TikTok. Social media has opened up our eyes to celebrities more than gossip in trashy tabloids ever could. Even through this global pandemic, we've been fascinated to see inside the homes of our favourite celebrities, gaining a glimpse of their personal lives. But is celebrity all it's cracked up to be? And is Hollywood really the place where dreams come true?

Joining the podcast this week is actor turned director Jeffrey Walker. Debuting on our screens as Bronson on classic Australian TV show Round the Twist, Jeffrey also starred in Ocean Girl and The Wayne Manifesto. But more recently, he's been directing big shows in Hollywood - including Bones and Modern Family. Jumping between Australia and Hollywood, Jeffrey has plenty of experience working alongside big name celebrities in Hollywood.

Jeffrey Walker is on Instagram @jlwalk, and his interview series Blurring the Lines can be seen below:

Watch Blurring the Lines with Jeffrey Walker featuring Guy Pearce

Watch Blurring the Lines with Jeffrey Walker featuring Ty Burrell

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify to get new episodes in your feeds every Tuesday. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

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Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Jul 06, 202035:43
37. Beaches w/ Trent 'Maxi' Maxwell

37. Beaches w/ Trent 'Maxi' Maxwell

The beach. You either love it or hate it. For some, it's a relaxing escape: a way to cool down on a hot day, a place to go for a romantic stroll, to breathe in salty air. For others, it's an opportunity to get dumped by waves, and tiptoe across scorching sand, much of which haunts your car for weeks. I've always loved the beach, but in Sydney, beaches are crowded and parking is minimal. So, what shall we do about beaches?

Trent Maxwell or 'Lifeguard Maxi', as he is more commonly known, is the youngest ever Professional Lifeguard to work at Australia's world-famous Bondi Beach. Maxi started life guarding as a 16-year-old trainee and his inspiring lifeguard career has been well documented across the last decade on Channel 10's Bondi Rescue. In this chat, recorded pre-COVID-19, we discuss the joys and dangers of the beach, and why water safety is necessary for all to learn.

Maxi is on Twitter @lifeguardmaxi and Instagram @lifeguardmaxi. You can see more of Maxi's work as well as order his Maxi the Lifeguard books at
lifeguardmaxi.com.au.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Jun 29, 202032:33
36. Birds w/ Chris Bath
Jun 22, 202033:36
35. Parody Songs w/ Lindsay McDougall

35. Parody Songs w/ Lindsay McDougall

Let's be honest - when it comes to creating parody songs there's two leagues: Weird Al Yankovic, and the rest of us.

For decades Weird Al has created witty parody tunes that have delighted both fans around the world, and the artists he spoofs. And yet, we've all had that moment at a 21st or farewell where someone has created a parody song that makes you cringe, your grandmother blush, or just wrecks the original song for you forever. So, what shall we do about parody songs?

Joining me to discuss is broadcaster and musician Lindsay 'The Doctor' McDougall (along with his guitar). For years Lindsay has played satirical tunes with his band Frenzal Rhomb, but has also dabbled in parody song writing in his time hosting triple j Breakfast and now on ABC local radio. Lindsay shares his love for the genre, and also reveals the key ingredients to a clever parody song.

Lindsay McDougall is on Twitter @doctormcdougall and on Instagram @doctormcdougall. You can also hear him on ABC Illawarra Drive, weekdays from 3pm.

And you can watch the video clip to BOB by Weird Al Yankovic, as discussed in this episode, here.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Jun 15, 202036:16
34. Systemic Racism w/ Léonce Crump

34. Systemic Racism w/ Léonce Crump

Though this is the show that tries to solve the world's less pressing problems, this week is different. In this episode, we're turning to one of the more pressing problems that the world is facing right now. In our previous episode we discussed culture and diversity, and here, we're tackling systemic racism. After the death of George Floyd only a few weeks ago, at the hands of a police officer, thousands upon thousands around the world have been marching in protest against systemic racism and police brutality. These are not new problems, but there is hope that a change is coming. To discuss this, I phoned the United States to speak to Léonce B. Crump Jr. Once a former professional football player, Léonce now works as a pastor in the historic precinct of Martin Luther King Jr. in Atlanta, Georgia. He is passionate about civil rights, troubled by injustice, and longs to see change take place in his nation. Though we could only scratch the surface of what is a big conversation, there's plenty here to take away. Léonce Crump is on Twitter @LeonceCrump, and on Instagram @LeonceCrump. You can read more about him and his writings at leoncecrump.com. Next week, we will return to normal programming and continue to examine the world's less pressing issues. And there's some great conversations ahead, so, be sure to hit subscribe. Some further reading and listening: 'It's Time to Listen: "Will White Evangelicals Ever Acknowledge Systemic Injustice?' by Léonce Crump at The Exchange. 'What to read, listen to and watch to learn about institutional racism' from PBS Newshour. 'What it Means to be Anti-Racist' by Anna North at Vox. '"Be wary of things that are purely symbolic": How to join the conversation on race' by Emily Stewart at Vox. 1619 Podcast from the New York Times. 'The American Church's Complicity in Racism: A Conversation with Jemar Tisby', by Eric C. Miller at Religion & Politics. Thanks for listening to the show, especially if you've just discovered us as we've been featured this week on Apple Podcasts. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so! There's plenty of episodes in our back catalogue too, so do check them out! Connect with the show: Instagram: @whatshallwedopod Facebook: @whatshallwedopod Twitter: @
Jun 10, 202024:32
33. Culture w/ Mitch Tambo

33. Culture w/ Mitch Tambo

George Floyd's death at the hands of a police officer has caused an outpouring of anger, prompting national protests in cities across the US. The world looks on as America grapples with ongoing racism, police brutality, protests - all in the midst of a pandemic. And here in Australia, it's made us look at the way in which we have mistreated our First Nations people, for centuries. At the weekend tens of thousands of Australians peacefully protested the death of Indigenous people in police custody.

And so while this podcast usually sets out to solve the world's less pressing issues, I wanted to ensure that we acknowledge that systemic racism is a massive problem that should be talked about.

Mitch Tambo is a proud Gamilaraay man who has brought his First Nations culture to Australia's Got Talent, Eurovision: Australia Decides, and the massive Fire Fight fundraiser concert that took place back in February. Mitch is passionate about his own culture but also very keen to help others embrace theirs. Though this episode was recorded prior to George Floyd's death, Mitch's insights speak so well into the current climate - particularly the urgent need for understanding, respect and an ability to listen well.

Mitch Tambo is on Facebook @MitchTambo and on Instagram @MitchTambo. His new song LOVE is out now on all streaming platforms.

Our conversation will continue in our next episode (dropping this Thursday) as we cross to the United States to discuss Black Lives Matter and systemic racism. So, be sure to hit subscribe.

Some further reading:

'How to be a good Indigenous Ally' by Summer May Finlay, NITV News.

'There cannot be 432 victims and no perpetrators...' by Amy McQuire, The Saturday Paper.

'Here are the practical ways you can support Aboriginal Lives Matter' by James Purtill, triple j's Hack.

'Indigenous issues can be daunting - here are 10 positive ways to engage' - triple j's Hack.

Listen and learn with the Black Lives Matter collection at SBS On Demand - SBS.

Thanks for listening to the show, I'm genuinely thankful that you did. If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. And leaving a rating and review really does help get the word out, so feel free to do so!

Connect with the show:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @
Jun 08, 202033:47
32. Fashion w/ Tali Aualiitia

32. Fashion w/ Tali Aualiitia

Fashion! Turn to the left. Fashion! Turn to the right.

Unlike many trends, David Bowie's 1980 song 'Fashion' hasn't gone out of, erm, fashion. Fashion is said to be a popular or the latest style of clothing, hair, decoration, or behaviour - but so often these things don't last. Think shoulder-pads, click-pants - heck, even socks and sandals were probably considered cool once.

Fashion can drain our bank accounts, and is really not great for our environment. So, what shall we do about fashion?

ABC Broadcaster Tali Aualiitia realised late in 2019 that she was addicted to fast fashion. So, she committed to buying no new clothes in 2020 - living out of her wardrobe of previous purchases, no matter what the fashion may be. And, as she shares in this episode, she's learning plenty about herself, and also learning some new skills in the process.

You can find Tali on Twitter @taliaualiitia, and watch the progress of her year on Instagram
@nonewclothes.tali.

You can read more of Tali's thoughts in her article 'I'm buying nothing new this year to break my fast fashion addiction' at ABC Life.

Thanks for listening to What Shall We Do About...?, it means a lot! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. Reviews are always welcome and help get the word out.

Get in contact:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Jun 01, 202039:38
31. Reality Televison w/ Nick Iadanza

31. Reality Televison w/ Nick Iadanza

Ever since the turn of the millennium, free-to-air television has been dominated by one genre: reality television.

Whether it's home cooks putting their 'heart on a plate', punters trying to transform a derelict apartment block into a place for high-end living, or a down-on-his-luck guy looking for the love of his life - we've been glued to reality television, stripped across most nights. But, how real is reality television? And, how much is the action manipulated through editing - as many previous contestants have claimed?

Helping us navigate this is two-time contestant on Australian Survivor, Nick Iadanza. In the 'real world', Nick is a high school English teacher and a self-confessed reality television junkie. He lifts the lid on the genre, talks about being dubbed a 'snake' on Australian Survivor, and gives some tips to help us as viewers know what is real and what is heightened by producers.

You can find Nick on Twitter @nickiadanza and on Instagram @nickiadanza. And you can see Nick competing in both seasons 1 and 5 of Australian Survivor on Tenplay.

Thanks for listening to What Shall We Do About...?, it means a lot! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. Reviews are always welcome and help get the word out.

Get in contact:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
May 25, 202042:24
30. Bees w/ Johanna Griggs

30. Bees w/ Johanna Griggs

How good is honey?

That sweet taste on toast in the morning providing that little kick of sugar to get you moving. We can often see its maker - the bee - as a nuisance, something that stings and buzzes, rather than provides. Sadly, bee populations around the world are in steady decline due to a number of factors, and this is a real problem - not just for honey lovers, but the entire population. It has been said recently, in a David Attenborough documentary no less, that if bees were to disappear from the face of the earth, humans would have only four years left to live. Scary thought, isn't it?

Well, what shall we do about bees? You might be surprised by the person I called to discuss this with: TV host Johanna Griggs, from Seven's long-running lifestyle show Better Homes and Gardens. She's a self-professed 'crazy bee lady' - and I have no doubt after hearing this episode you'll have a whole new respect for these yellow and black winged creatures.

You can keep up with Johanna's beekeeping adventures on Instagram @JohGriggs7 and on Twitter @JohGriggs7. Joh hosts Better Homes and Gardens, Friday evenings from 7pm on the Seven Network.

The article referenced in this podcast is 'Bees Are Dying - What Can We Do About It?' by Stephen Smiley at the ABC.

Thanks for listening to What Shall We Do About...?, it means a lot! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. Reviews are always welcome and help get the word out.

Get in contact:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
May 18, 202030:44
29. Saxophones w/ James Valentine

29. Saxophones w/ James Valentine

Are saxophones the most joked about instrument in modern music?

When I was ten, I started learning how to play the alto saxophone. It was a relatively easy instrument to pick up, and I played it right through to my Higher School Certificate. I soon discovered, however, that outside of jazz and concert ensembles, the saxophone is a bit of a joke. People think of soppy music from Kenny G, or big raspy motifs from such 70s and 80s tunes like Smooth Operator and Baker Street. These days, saxophones show up as annoying hooks like on Thrift Shop and Jason Derulo's Talk Dirty. The exception: M83's epic Midnight City.

So, what shall we do about saxophones? Before COVID-19 shutdown kicked in, I paid a visit to the ABC to chat with fellow saxophone player and broadcaster James Valentine. We talked about the history of the saxophone, the art of improvisation, how music has changed, and as a treat he even brought his tenor saxophone along to the conversation.

James Valentine hosts Afternoons on ABC Radio Sydney (and across NSW) from 12:30-3:30pm weekdays. He is on Twitter @Valentine702.

The article referenced in this podcast is Where did all the saxophones go? by Kelsey McKinney at
theoutline.com.

Thanks for listening to What Shall We Do About...?, it means a lot! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. Reviews are always welcome and help get the word out.

Get in contact:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
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Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email: whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
May 11, 202035:29
28. Kindness w/ Ash London

28. Kindness w/ Ash London

In many ways, we've been pushed to our limits in 2020. In Australia, the year began with devastating bushfires with thousands seeing in the new year displaced in evacuation centres. February brought flooding rains - and in March - the term toilet paper panic was born, followed by social distancing. It's been a tough few months, and we don't know for how much longer COVID-19 will impact our lives. If you follow the news it's pretty easy to feel panicked. So where's the good stuff? Where is the kindness in the midst of disaster and panic?

Well, I've invited an old friend back to the podcast - one of my most popular guests so far - Ash London. In the middle of all of this she's managed to pull together a project that shines a light on kindness in the everyday.

You can find Ash's podcast Sunny Side Up! wherever you get your podcasts. Ash is on Instagram @ash_london, on Twitter @ash_london, and you can also hear her on Ash London Live, weeknights from 7pm across the Hit Network.

You can hear Ash's previous appearance on this podcast, tackling the topic of flying, here.

Thanks for listening to What Shall We Do About...?, it means a lot! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. Reviews are always welcome and help get the word out.

Get in contact:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
May 04, 202028:49
27. Children's Television w/ James Sherry

27. Children's Television w/ James Sherry

Remember the days when after-school TV was appointment viewing? You'd race home, try to knock out your homework as quickly as possible, and switch on for cartoons, magazine shows like The Big Arvo or The Shak, or even a hit of Totally Wild. Then you'd try to squeeze in as much as possible before dinnertime.

Well, Australian children's programming on commercial television is under threat more than ever. Each TV network is required by law to produce a certain quota of TV for kids, but in recent years, it's been buried in obscure time-slots on multi-channels like 7TWO, 10Peach, and 9GO!. And earlier this year, some networks asked to have the quotas scrapped due to the amount of content on streaming services, and the high cost of production involved in local programming.

Joining me on the podcast this week is a man who hosted some children's shows on the Seven Network in the early 1990s, when the genre was highly valued. James Sherry was one of the original hosts of long-running cartoon block Saturday Disney, and then hosted one of the best kid's game shows ever created, A*mazing. We reflected on the popularity of the shows, our common history working on Saturday Disney, and whether the call to scrap quotas is a good thing or not.

James Sherry is on Twitter @thejamessherry.

The article referenced in this podcast is 'Broadcasters, producers at loggerheads over children's content quotas' by Karl Quinn and Zoe Samios at Sydney Morning Herald.

Since this episode was recorded, due to COVID-19, the Australian government has scrapped quotas on Drama, Documentary and Children's television for the remainder of 2020. Seven dropped their daily children's block immediately in favour of re-runs of old episodes of Auction Squad and Harry's Practice. You can read more at TV Tonight.

Thanks for listening to What Shall We Do About...?, it means a lot! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. Reviews are always welcome and help get the word out.

Get in contact:

Instagram: @whatshallwedopod
Facebook: @whatshallwedopod
Twitter: @whatshallwepod
Email:
whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

What Shall We Do About...? is hosted and produced by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Apr 27, 202032:58
26. Trains w/ Alex Dyson
Apr 20, 202043:59