Raising the Bar Perth 2023

Extreme waves and open water swimming by Dr Scott Draper

This episode explores the vital role of the ocean in society and the engineering challenges of working in such a dynamic environment. Dr. Draper discusses innovations in building structures that withstand extreme conditions and improving navigation for ships and swimmers—highlighting how WA is at the forefront of these solutions.

Living in the Cloud: the Philosophical Prospects of Mind-Uploading by Dr Clas Weber

This episode explores the philosophical debate around mind-uploading—the idea of transferring human consciousness to artificial hardware. It examines arguments from both optimists, who believe survival through uploading is possible, and pessimists, who doubt its feasibility, asking whether we should embrace or reject the prospect.

Fact-checking the truth by Dr Paul Harrigan

As screen time and content consumption rise, so does the spread of misinformation. This episode explores the nature of fake news—what it looks like, why it spreads, and what we can do to stop it—highlighting the urgent need for critical thinking in the digital age.

Pharmacists in Aged Care: Unravelling the Medicines Tangle by Dr Amy Page

This episode explores the complex role of medicines in aged care and the risks of polypharmacy, with residents often taking around 10 medications daily. It also examines the potential impact of the government’s plan to place pharmacists onsite in residential aged care facilities to improve medicines management and safety.

Talking about death will not kill you by Professor Samar Aoun

Professor Aoun explores why open conversations about death, dying, and grief are essential for better end-of-life care. She advocates for improving death and grief literacy, empowering individuals and communities to play an active role in care. This episode highlights the importance of Compassionate Communities as partners in supporting people through caring, dying, and grieving.