Your Daily Commute to a Better Tomorrow: The‘What Happens Next?’ Podcast Is Back

How does an ordinary day transform into an extraordinary opportunity for change? It happens the moment you press play on the newest season of Monash University’s multi-award-winning podcast, What Happens Next?.

The trailer for the show’s ninth season launched today, with the premiere episode to be released later this month. This season challenges listeners to confront the enormous issues facing our world, not with despair but with determination and hope.

Hosted by academic and public commentator Dr Susan Carland, season nine of What Happens Next? covers three critical areas that will define our future: the changing nature of reality, climate change in the Indo-Pacific region and the ongoing struggle to eliminate gender-based violence.

The podcast invites you to join Susan and her expert guests as they examine the future we're hurtling towards if we don't change course, envision the future we could create if we take action and – most importantly – explore how we can work together to build the kind of future we all want.

Each topic is explored in a two-part episode format. The first part focuses on the current situation or potential dystopian outcomes if we don't change, while the second part highlights the positive changes already underway and empowers you with actionable steps you can take as an individual, citizen or community member.

Redefining reality in the digital age

As AI, deep fakes and other innovations reshape our technological landscape, we're faced with exciting opportunities – and tremendous challenges. What new skills will we need to navigate this evolving reality with confidence? In a major year for global elections, how do we harness this tech to strengthen our democratic processes rather than undermine them? And what does it mean to be human in the digital age?

Among other guests, tech visionaries including Professor Geoff Webb, Professor Christopher Lawrence and Data Futures Institute Director Professor Joanna Batstone unravel the complexities of our shifting digital reality.

Climate change in the Indo-Pacific

The Indo-Pacific region stands on the front line of climate change, facing unique challenges that threaten communities' ways of life, economies and well-being. This two-part series explores how reshaping our climate narratives can inspire meaningful action and safeguard the region's future.

You’ll hear stories of resilience, innovation and hope from the shores of the Pacific Islands to informal settlements in Southeast Asia and beyond, and learn the importance of centring the voices and ideas that are often overlooked in climate discussions.

Along with other experts in the field, ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather Director Professor Christian Jakob and Monash Sustainable Development Institute Director Professor Tony Capon shed light on the climate crisis facing the Indo-Pacific. Award-winning journalist Dr Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson also provides a critical local perspective.

Ending gender-based violence

Can we end gender-based violence in one generation, as the Australian government ambitiously aims to do? This series tackles this national crisis head-on, exploring its multiple, complex drivers and potential solutions.

This fascinating discussion covers everything from the influence of hypermasculine online “manfluencers”, to the role of addictive behaviours such as gambling and the deeply entrenched cultural norms that perpetuate violence.

You’ll hear from those leading the charge to stop gender-based violence before it starts, including Professors Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Jane Fisher and Steven Roberts among other fascinating expert guests. Susan also talks to Monash alumna and former Victoria Victims of Crime Commissioner Fiona McCormack AM, bringing her valuable perspective to this crucial discussion.

Can't wait to find out what happens next? Catch up on our back catalogue.

A call to action

With its unique blend of academic rigour and accessibility, What Happens Next? aims to empower listeners with knowledge and inspire action. New episodes are released weekly on Fridays, offering a regular dose of insight and inspiration.

Season 9 is coming to your favourite podcast app soon – subscribe now.

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