Aleks and Liam Talk

In our first episode back after a long hiatus, we spoke with comedian, ABC Presenter and former Triple J Breakfast host Tom Ballard. It was a rich but sobering conversation, with Tom navigating topics including the pressures of being funny, comedy as activism, the state of the ABC, where to draw the line in comedy, Jordan Peterson, neoliberalism, capitalism, and his middle name.   Tom prides himself on his cooking and was generous enough to provide us with his famous 'Tomato Sauce on Toast' Recipe. Thanks, I guess.  0:00-8:42 - Introduction 8:42-1:02:05 - Interview 1:02:05-1:04:19 - Concluding notes and our future plans

"I spend every day feeling like a failure". In Episode 4, Aleks and Liam speak with the gentle and incredibly wise Julian Burnside AO QC, Barrister and Human Rights advocate, about racism, seeking asylum and defining your worth (intellectually and financially).   We also had the privilege of hearing Julian recite one of his favourite stories. What an orator he is.  This episode deals with upsetting themes. If you are concerned about your own health or someone else's call: Lifeline (24hrs): 13 11 14 - www.lifeline.org.au Kids' Helpline (24hrs): 1800 55 1800 - www.kidshelp.com.au  BeyondBlue (24hrs): 1300 22 4636 - www.beyondblue.org.au

In Episode 3, Aleks and Liam talk with Astrophysicist and Cosmologist Dr Rebecca Allen about the wonders of the Universe, discussing topics such as the Big Bang, Time Travel, Black Holes, Multiverses and the ethics of inhabiting Mars.    Rebecca also gives us some insight into Melbourne's 'astrology' craze and provides her thoughts on various conspiracy theories (aliens exist!). Virgos beware.

In Episode 2, Aleks and Liam talk with Cognitive Neuroscientist Stefan Bode (a.k.a. Melbourne's Sam Harris) about consciousness, unconsciousness and free-will. Stefan also provides a critique of Tinder and explains how to best 'control' people's minds (well, sort of).

In Episode 1 of the show, Aleks and Liam talk with Philosopher Peter Singer about the ethics of climate change, artificial intelligence, capitalism as well as reason, emotion and whether he puts his tomato sauce in the fridge or cupboard.  Peter also provides us with love advice and shares the recipe for his famous potato dish.