4882 - Nuking the moon and mirrors in space—man's wildest attempts to control the weather
Conversations draws you deeper into the life story of someone you may have heard about, but never met. Journey into their world, joining them on epic adventures to unfamiliar places, back in time to wild moments of history, and into their deepest memories, to be moved by personal stories of resilience and redemption.
Hosted by Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski, Conversations is the ABC's most popular long-form interview program. Every day we explore the vast tapestry of human experience, weaving together narratives from history, science, art, and personal storytelling.
Conversations Live is coming to the stage! Join Sarah Kanowski and Richard Fidler for an unmissable night of unforgettable stories, behind-the-scenes secrets, and surprise guests. Australia’s most-loved podcast — live, up close, and in the moment. Find out more at the Conversations website.
4882 - Nuking the moon and mirrors in space—man's wildest attempts to control the weather
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Conversations draws you deeper into the life story of someone you may have heard about, but never met. Journey into their world, joining them on epic adventures to unfamiliar places, back in time to wild moments of history, and into their deepest memories, to be moved by personal stories of resilience and redemption.
Hosted by Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski, Conversations is the ABC's most popular long-form interview program. Every day we explore the vast tapestry of human experience, weaving together narratives from history, science, art, and personal storytelling.
Conversations Live is coming to the stage! Join Sarah Kanowski and Richard Fidler for an unmissable night of unforgettable stories, behind-the-scenes secrets, and surprise guests. Australia’s most-loved podcast — live, up close, and in the moment. Find out more at the Conversations website.
Shrnutí epizody
Tim Flannery discusses the concept of geoengineering as a 'band-aid' approach to the climate crisis, exploring the potential for unintended consequences and the historical pursuit of weather control. The episode traces the evolution of climate science from the discovery of the link between CO2 and global warming to ambitious, large-scale engineering schemes, including Soviet nuclear river diversions and proposals to melt the Arctic ice cap.
Contrasting the 'megalomania' of past attempts to conquer nature with the necessity of modern, holistic solutions, the conversation highlights the importance of reforestation and renewable energy. The discussion also examines the psychological and philosophical implications of human dominion over nature and the risks of unilateral geoengineering actions.
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geoengineering refers to a basket of technologies and methods, really, that offer to put a band-aid over the global warming crisis
00:02:10 · Tim Flannery defines geoengineering as a temporary measure to mitigate global warming rather than a permanent solution.
We're living on the Wild West of these technologies and their applications.
00:06:36 · Flannery warns about the lack of global regulation and oversight regarding geoengineering projects.
We always start with that kind of man beats nature and conquers nature and tames the world and supposedly makes it better for us all. But it doesn't end up that way.
00:22:45 · The speaker critiques the flawed philosophical approach of attempting to dominate natural systems through engineering.
the greatest conspiracy of all is happening under their noses and they haven't got onto it, that the fossil fuel industries are poisoning our world.
00:35:36 · The speaker argues that the real danger is the ongoing impact of fossil fuel industries rather than fringe conspiracy theories.
I really worry that some country will actually do this unilaterally and it will lead to enormous conflict.
00:41:32 · The speaker expresses concern that the use of sulfur in the stratosphere could trigger international disputes if implemented by a single nation.
Tim Flannery discusses the concept of geoengineering as a 'band-aid' approach to the climate crisis, exploring the potential for unintended consequences and the historical pursuit of weather control. The episode traces the evolution of climate science from the discovery of the link between CO2 and global warming to ambitious, large-scale engineering schemes, including Soviet nuclear river diversions and proposals to melt the Arctic ice cap.
Contrasting the 'megalomania' of past attempts to conquer nature with the necessity of modern, holistic solutions, the conversation highlights the importance of reforestation and renewable energy. The discussion also examines the psychological and philosophical implications of human dominion over nature and the risks of unilateral geoengineering actions.
Publikováno01 čvc. 2026
Délka47:59
Epizody
4882-
Nuking the moon and mirrors in space—man's wildest attempts to control the weather
Přehrané
Tim Flannery discusses the concept of geoengineering as a 'band-aid' approach to the climate crisis, exploring the potential for unintended consequences and the historical pursuit of weather control. The episode traces the evolution of climate science from the discovery of the link between CO2 and global warming to ambitious, large-scale engineering schemes, including Soviet nuclear river diversions and proposals to melt the Arctic ice cap.
Contrasting the 'megalomania' of past attempts to conquer nature with the necessity of modern, holistic solutions, the conversation highlights the importance of reforestation and renewable energy. The discussion also examines the psychological and philosophical implications of human dominion over nature and the risks of unilateral geoengineering actions.
01 čvc. 2026
4881-
Encore: A brother's insight into the genius of artist David Hockney
Přehrané
John Hockney reflects on his upbringing in industrial Bradford, detailing his family's history, his father's pacifist beliefs during the World Wars, and the hardships of wartime life. He shares poignant memories of childhood financial struggles and his father's eccentric, principled character.
The episode also explores the life and principles of his brother, David, covering his artistic journey and social campaigns. John concludes by recounting his transition from storytelling for children to performing for aged care residents, finding deep connections through shared narratives.
30 čvn. 2026
4880-
The mysteries, ghosts and healing powers of the Abbotsford Convent
Přehrané
Poet Patricia Sykes recounts her childhood journey of displacement, from the loss of her mother and life in orphanages to her time at the Abbotsford Convent. She reflects on the hardships of her early years, the ritualistic nature of Catholic life, and her eventual discovery of a passion for language and literature.
As a poet in residence at the Abbotsford Convent, Sykes interviewed former residents to uncover hidden stories of trauma and resilience. She discusses the transformative power of revisiting the institution on her own terms and the importance of preserving the lineage of storytelling connected to the convent's history.
29 čvn. 2026
4879-
How limitations in life, love and creativity can actually set you free
Přehrané
In this episode, author David Epstein discusses his book 'Inside the Box', arguing that constraints, rather than total freedom, are the true drivers of creativity and productivity. Through examples ranging from personal injury and scientific breakthroughs to the successes of Pixar and NASA, the discussion illustrates how limitations can prevent decision paralysis and foster innovation.
The episode also explores the psychological costs of excessive choice and the detrimental effects of multitasking. By examining concepts like universal design, the 'satisficing' strategy, and the importance of social obligations, the conversation highlights how setting boundaries and embracing shared norms can reduce stress and enhance human thriving.
26 čvn. 2026
4878-
Encore: The traits I was teased about are now my trademarks
Přehrané
Paul Capsis explores his complex family history, tracing the resilient journeys of his ancestors from Egypt and Malta to Australia. He reflects on his upbringing in a Maltese-speaking household in Surry Hills, navigating the transition from a protective Catholic education to a challenging, multicultural public school environment marked by bullying and racism.
Through stories of personal struggle and cultural identity, Paul discusses finding refuge in the arts and the transformative power of community theatre. The episode concludes with reflections on his grandmother's enduring legacy and the emotional experience of performing in Malta.
25 čvn. 2026
4877-
The adoptive mum who now fights to keep families together
Přehrané
Anna and Mark, a couple from Wollongong, share their transformative journey from watching a documentary about Chinese orphanages to moving to Tanzania to pursue international adoption. They navigate the complexities of the Australian adoption system and the challenges of settling near Mount Kilimanjaro, including cultural adjustments and unexpected adventures.
The episode details the emotional and physical rigors of adopting three siblings, managing health crises like malaria, and the legal battles required to secure their permanent adoption. Upon returning to Australia, Anna reflects on reverse culture shock and the founding of her charity, Forever Projects, which aims to support biological families in Tanzania to prevent child abandonment.
24 čvn. 2026
4876-
Encore: How not to be a d***head with singer Kasey Chambers
Přehrané
Singer Casey Chambers discusses her new memoir, 'Just Don't Be a Dickhead,' reflecting on her nomadic childhood on the Nullarbor Plain and the life lessons learned from her father's hunting profession. She traces her musical journey from the Dead Ringer Band and a connection with Slim Dusty to the challenges of the music industry.
Chambers also opens up about personal struggles with body image, eating disorders, and the impact of divorce on her songwriting. She concludes by sharing her current lifestyle of traveling across Australia in a caravan to embrace a simpler way of life and her successful co-parenting relationship.
23 čvn. 2026
4875-
A race against time to help my friend dying from mesothelioma
Přehrané
James O'Loughlin discusses the personal impact of his friend Jum Walner's mesothelioma diagnosis, caused by exposure to asbestos in their childhood homes in Canberra. The episode explores the 'Mr. Fluffy' asbestos scandal and the legal and financial complexities of seeking compensation for residents who fell through the cracks of existing liability frameworks.
The episode also details the strategic, non-partisan political lobbying efforts undertaken to pressure both the ACT and Federal governments. Through a combination of community support and media pressure, the campaign focused on framing the issue as an opportunity for ministers to prevent future victims, while the speaker reflects on the emotional toll of navigating grief and the profound nature of lifelong friendships.
22 čvn. 2026
4874-
"ELVIS IS ALIVE AND RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT" The story behind the nonsensical Weekly World News
Přehrané
19 čvn. 2026
4873-
Encore: Darren Hayes on the dark side of his fame with Savage Garden
Přehrané
18 čvn. 2026
4872-
Why this private investigator loves the cases others have given up on
Přehrané
17 čvn. 2026
4871-
Encore: My eerie week inside Kanye West's Hollywood mansion
Přehrané
16 čvn. 2026
4870-
Rowing against the current—the Australian heroine of the Titanic's 'lifeboat 16'
Přehrané
15 čvn. 2026
4869-
From party trick to pop star — meet Molly Lewis, professional whistler
Přehrané
12 čvn. 2026
4868-
Encore: My adventures on the high seas with a fugitive on the run
Přehrané
11 čvn. 2026
4867-
Algorithms, accountability and the 'manosphere'—empowering men to be the solution
Přehrané
10 čvn. 2026
4866-
Encore: The remarkable life of Professor Richard Scolyer
Přehrané
09 čvn. 2026
4865-
How Japanese spirituality can help make everyday life more beautiful
Přehrané
08 čvn. 2026
4864-
Hip Hop, home, and humanity—'trials' on reckoning with his origin story
Přehrané
05 čvn. 2026
4863-
Learning from the mighty matriarchs of the animal kingdom
Přehrané
04 čvn. 2026
4862-
Brooke Boney quit her ideal job to pursue her secret dream
Přehrané
03 čvn. 2026
4861-
Encore: Australia's TV mum Noni Hazlehurst on her life on stage and screen
Přehrané
02 čvn. 2026
4860-
'Angertainment', algorithms and the online outrage industry
Přehrané
01 čvn. 2026
4859-
Luke Bateman on surviving a gambling addiction and the magic of his mum’s love
Přehrané
29 květen 2026
4858-
How a teen father used the local skate park to change the world
Přehrané
28 květen 2026
4857-
Jimmy Wales says it is possible to have a collaborative, trusting world online
Přehrané
27 květen 2026
4856-
Changing prisoners' minds with Vedic meditation at Rikers Island
Přehrané
26 květen 2026
4855-
Patrick Radden Keefe digs into the mysterious death of a man posing as a Russian oligarch's son
Přehrané
25 květen 2026
4854-
Special Collection: Alain de Botton on the true hardwork of love and relationships
Přehrané
22 květen 2026
4853-
Special Collection: Transforming trauma with Gabor Mate
Přehrané
21 květen 2026
4852-
Special Collection: How I made peace with my mother and our complicated relationship
Přehrané
20 květen 2026
4851-
Special Collection: An unexpected later in life love story
Přehrané
19 květen 2026
4850-
Special Collection: The teenage TV star who feels 'lucky to be paraplegic'
Přehrané
18 květen 2026
4849-
Lindy Lee on how Zen Buddhism changed her life and art
Přehrané
15 květen 2026
4848-
Encore: My parents died in a plane crash and what came next
Přehrané
14 květen 2026
4847-
The secret obsession of a Supreme Court Justice
Přehrané
13 květen 2026
4846-
Encore: How to sleep well and what can get in the way
Přehrané
12 květen 2026
4845-
Moana Hope on a life spent caring for others and re-learning how to love
Přehrané
11 květen 2026
4844-
Prolonged old age, the sandwich generation and biohacking—the realities of an aging Australia
Přehrané
08 květen 2026
4843-
Encore: The misfit mammal that defies biological conventions
Přehrané
07 květen 2026
4842-
Lessons in living, grief and love from the Lebanese Civil War
Přehrané
06 květen 2026
4841-
Encore: Colm Toibin on his early life and running away to Barcelona, Brooklyn and beyond
Přehrané
05 květen 2026
4840-
'Propeller vs forearm, croc vs leg': The incredible job of a remote bush doctor
Přehrané
04 květen 2026
4839-
A journey to help thousands of horses and revive an ancient tradition
Přehrané
01 květen 2026
4838-
Matt Bevan on the history you think you know
Přehrané
29 dub. 2026
4837-
Encore: David Malouf on growing up in Brisbane and his life of letters
Přehrané
30 dub. 2026
4836-
Encore: My year circumnavigating Australia on a surf ski
Přehrané
28 dub. 2026
4835-
The improbable life of 'The Pinching Padre', a vicar with a thirst for adventure and ethical theft
Přehrané
27 dub. 2026
4834-
Surviving White Island and what happened next — Stephanie Browitt's story