What Shall We Do About...? — podcast episodes

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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.
Fun w/ Ben Lee


» The world is a bit of a mess at the moment.
We've been stuck indoors for months, been robbed of human interaction, and who knows when we'll next be able to travel internationally. We miss the freedoms that come with socialising without risk, and in many ways, the world feels less fun, and more negative, than it used to be.
So, what shall we do about fun? Joining the podcast to discuss this question is musician Ben Lee, who has been spreading positivity through his music for years. Ben has just moved back to Australia, recently appeared on The Masked Singer, and released a new single, Born For This Bulls***. Ben shares about his career, dealing with trolls, and how we can push through the hard stuff to find fun.
Ben's new album I'm Fun releases in June 2022, and you can find Ben on Twitter @BenLeeMusic and Instagram @BenLeeMusic.
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.
Climate Change w/ Anika Molesworth


» This podcast has always aimed to fix the world's less pressing problems, but 72 episodes in, it's time for a shake up.
I've always wanted to look at the issue of climate change, because here in Australia, not enough is being done about it. Someone who has been quite vocal about the issue, with a lived experience of its effects, is Dr. Anika Molesworth.
Anika moved to a sheep station outside of Broken Hill when she was 12, just as the Millennium Drought hit. She witnessed firsthand the way in which her surroundings changed, becoming dry, and with challenges of heat waves and dust storms.
Anika's new book Our Sunburnt Country is a hope-filled story of her life, and shares that we can indeed make a difference despite the enormity of the challenge. We discuss plenty in this challenging, yet hopeful chat.
Anika's new book is Our Sunburnt Country, and you can find Anika on Twitter @AnikaMolesworth.
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.
Smoking w/ John Safran


» The danger of smoking has become far more evident around the world in recent years - though did you realise smoking wasn't banned in any workplace or indoor venue in Australia until the early 1990s? In more recent years, the European Parliament has banned traditional menthol cigarettes, but alternatives such as e-cigarettes and vaping have grown in popularity.
But here's a statistic for you: of the 57 million people who die around the world each year, 8 million are due to Big Tobacco. That's 14 per cent. Clearly, it's still a problem.
Joining this episode is writer and filmmaker John Safran. His latest book, Puff Piece, investigates how makers of Marlboro - Philip Morris - have redefined themselves as the future of cigarettes is up in the air. And as John explains, not is all as it seems.
John Safran's new book Puff Piece is available now. John can also be found on Twitter @JohnSafran.
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.
Disability w/ Skye-Blue Henderson


» For the season finale of this podcast, the incredible Skye-Blue Henderson joins us to discuss disability. Skye-Blue competed on this year's edition of The Amazing Race Australia - making it through 20 legs of the race with her brother Jake, and proved to Australia that she can do anything - despite being born with no left hand.
In this conversation, Skye-Blue shares about being underestimated, and how she doesn't believe in the word 'disability'. No doubt you'll find this conversation inspiring, and hopefully you'll leave challenged to make a change in the way you perceive others.
Skye-Blue Henderson is on Instagram @skyeblueh.
Read more about Skye-Blue: Reality TV shows Big Brother, The Voice and The Amazing Race helping to 'crush' stigma around disability (ABC News).
And that brings us to the end of another season of What Shall We Do About...?. If you missed any episodes, there's 70 of them to go back and enjoy. Hopefully we'll be back with new conversations at some time in the near future. In the meantime, shoot me an email and share any feedback you may have!
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.
Generational Gap w/ Ashley Fell


» When we draw lines at different generations, it's easy to make comparisons of experience.
We might look at Baby Boomers and wish we could have grown up in a time where houses were more affordable. We might look at younger generations and think that they have it so much easier, growing up in a world where they'll never have to look up basic information in a paper encyclopedia.
Ashley Fell is a social researcher, and Director of Advisory at McCrindle Research. Together with Mark McCrindle, she has written a brand new book: Generation Alpha: Understanding Our Children and Helping Them Thrive. Ashley joins this episode to talk about Generation Alpha and how they fit together with other generations, whether it's helpful to create generalisations about generations, and how we can better understand those who may have grown up at different times to us.
Ashley Fell is on Twitter @AshFelll, and her new book is Generation Alpha, which is out now.
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.
Museums w/ Marc Fennell


» Museums are a fascinating place to visit, especially on a school excursion or on a rainy day. But behind the glass, and the velvet ropes, what stories really lie behind the artefacts? Are the plaques telling an honest, truthful account of history?
TV host and podcaster Marc Fennell returns to What Shall We Do About...? for the first time in nearly two years. His podcast series for the ABC, Stuff the British Stole, burst onto the podcast charts late in 2020 and delves into a number of museum-held items and their histories. In this conversation, we talk about the making of Marc's podcast, whether cancel culture should exist within the walls of the museum, and how we should best respond to what's on display.
You can hear season one of Stuff the British Stole on the ABC Listen app, or wherever you get your podcasts. Marc Fennell is on Twitter @MarcFennell and Instagram @MarcFennell.
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.
Heartbreak w/ Jessie Stephens


» There aren't many worse feelings in the world than that of a broken heart.
Breakups suck - they're often messy, painful, and disorientating. And yet, we all experience heartbreak at some time in our lives. So why isn't heartbreak seen as a real form of grief, instead relegated to montage sequences in film where characters mope around the house, eating ice cream straight from the tub?
Journalist and podcaster Jessie Stephens has experienced more than her fair share of heartbreak, which moved her to write a non-fiction book called Heartsick: Three Stories about Love and Loss, and what Happens in Between. It's a fascinating, and devastating read - and intrigued me so much I wanted to get Jessie on the podcast, to ask, what shall we do about heartbreak?
Heartsick by Jessie Stephens is out now. You can find Jessie on Instagram @jessiestephens90.
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.
Redevelopment w/ Tim Ross


» If you take a walk around your suburb or town, it's likely you'll see redevelopment in one form or another. In fact, many would argue that the look of most suburbs has changed dramatically in the last decade or so, and grief is often shared that character of buildings and dwellings is lost to redevelopment, and it's mostly due to money.
Tim 'Rosso' Ross is a comedian and design nerd, and has filmed a number of specials about architecture for the ABC. In this conversation, we discuss classic Australian design being lost to redevelopment, the issues around heritage listing, and more.
Tim Ross is on Instagram @Modernister, and you can see more of Tim's passion for architecture and design at timross.com.au.
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.
Hospitals w/ Georgie Carroll


» Hospitals are never a place that we want to spend a whole lot of time at. Unless, of course, we require urgent medical attention - in that case they are exactly the place to be.
Mostly though, it's a place of sickness and sadness, a place of pain and painful waits. A place where staff are stretched, especially as they deal with the added pressure of a pandemic. So, what shall we do about hospitals?
Georgie Carroll spent years working as a nurse in public hospitals around the world, before switching gears and launching into the world of comedy. She's just released her first book, Off the Charts, which is a memoir of her time working as a nurse. In this conversation we talk about nursing, comedy, and what can be done to improve our hospitals.
Georgie Carroll's book Off the Charts is out now. Georgie is on Instagram @nurse_georgie_carroll, and you can find out more about Georgie and her upcoming shows at georgiecarroll.com.
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.
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.
Musicals w/ Gabbi Bolt


» If you're a fan of musicals, you've probably found the past year pretty tough. Broadway, The West End all shut down because crowds can't gather - and it's only in recent months that Australia has begun staging musicals with theatres at full capacity.
So, what shall we do about musicals, and do we need to rethink the way they are created? One such example of ingenuity happened during the pandemic, when TikTok users around the world teamed up to crowdsource create an unofficial musical based on the 2007 Disney Pixar film Ratatouille, Ratatousical.
One of those Tik Tok users is Gabbi Bolt - who wrote a song from her home in Bathurst, Australia. In this episode, Gabbi shares the experience of becoming an overnight musical composer, and where she sees the future of musicals headed.
Gabbi Bolt is on TikTok as @FettuccineFettuqueen, as well as Instagram @GabbiBoltOfficial.
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.
Electric Vehicles w/ Kurt Johnson


» Do you dream of owning an electric vehicle? Imagine - to live in a world where you never have to fill up at the petrol station, or worry about changing petrol prices - all the while knowing your trip is having less of an impact on the environment. When you look around the world, it's clear that electric vehicles - or EVs - are the future of transportation, but here in Australia at least, things are moving slowly. I was quite struck recently reading an article in The Saturday Paper by journalist Kurt Johnson called 'Australia missing out on EVs'. In it, Kurt claims that Australia has all the advantages in the world to manufacture electric vehicles, and yet it just isn't happening.
Kurt happily joined me on this episode to discuss electric vehicles, the technology and minerals required to build them, and whether I'll ever be able to afford an EV here in Australia.
Kurt Johnson is on Twitter @kujo4pm, and his article about electric vehicles is in the April 10 2021 edition of The Saturday Paper.
Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this show, 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.
Game Shows w/ Claire McNear


» For many decades, game shows have been a magnet in homes around the world - as families gathered around television sets after or during dinner. But what proves popular is ever changing, and at least here in Australia, game shows have all but disappeared from primetime. So, what shall we do about game shows? Will they ever gain the fame and attention that they once did?
My guest this week is Claire McNear, a writer at sports and pop culture website The Ringer. Claire has just released a book about the long-running American television show Jeopardy!, and was able to share plenty of insights into not only the history (and scandals) of game shows, but also the obsession that still exists among fans of the format.
Claire McNear's book Answers in the Form of Questions: A Definitive History and Insider's Guide to Jeopardy! is out now. Claire is also on Twitter @ClaireMcNear.
If you enjoyed this episode, you might enjoy our previous episode on Trivia with Cheryl Toh from The Chase Australia.
Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed it, 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.
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.
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.
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.
Reading w/ Nat Amoore


» Happy New Year! If you managed to get a break, did you spend some time reading a book? Whether it's leafing through a novel at the beach, or finally getting to that pile of books on your bedside table - the December to January period is peak reading time.
But how can you keep a reading habit going beyond holidays, and well into the year? And if you've never been much of a reader, where is a good place to start?
Nat Amoore is a children's author who also hosts One More Page - a podcast uncovering the best in kid's literature. I connected with Nat to find out the best ways to form a reading habit, and why reading is such a good thing to be doing, no matter how old you might be.
Nat Amoore's latest book The Power of Positive Pranking is out now, and you can see more of Nat's work at natamoore.com. Nat is also on Twitter at @Nat_Amoore.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cooking w/ Jessica Rowe


» Most of us have a love-hate relationship with cooking. For some of us, it's an opportunity to unwind after a long day, experimenting with flavours and ingredients to create something delicious. For the rest of us, it can be incredibly stressful, especially if we don't feel particularly good at it, and have the added pressure of entertaining guests.
Journalist and author Jessica Rowe is firmly in the latter category.
Having given herself the title of 'Crap Housewife' for a number of years, Jess has been working hard to help ease the pressure on women especially, so that they are kinder and gentler on themselves - including in the kitchen. Jess joined me to talk about cooking triumphs and fails, and her partnership with Australian butchers that saw her learning how to cook her first steak at the age of 50.
Jessica Rowe is on Instagram @jessjrowe and you can read more about her escapades as a Crap Housewife at jessicarowe.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.
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.
Mars w/ Dianne McGrath


» If you were offered the opportunity to travel to Mars, would you go? And what if it were a one way trip - meaning that you would be saying goodbye to Earth, and everything on it, for good?
For Dianne McGrath, this is a very real goal. Dianne is one of the remaining one hundred candidates vying for a position to travel to the Red Planet with Mars One in 2031, and never return to Earth. Imagine that - leaving everything you know behind bound for a planet where no person has ever set foot before, and still so much is unknown. I needed to better understand this situation, and so I connected to Dianne to ask, What Shall we Do About Mars, and discover why we as a human race are so infatuated with our neighbouring planet.
Keep up with Dianne McGrath on Twitter @liteandportable, and find out more at diannemcgrath.com.au.
More about Mars One: https://www.mars-one.com/mission/roadmap
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
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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.
Season 2 Coming Soon...


» With plenty of less-pressing problems still needing to be addressed, here's your first taste of season two of What Shall We Do About...?, landing in your feeds really soon.
Hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts or 'follow' on Spotify for 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.
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.
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: https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/2020-series-31-episode-11/12158524
Factsheet: https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/resourceful-renters/12155080
Trench Composting; Burying scraps straight into the ground as a compost option
Story and Factsheet : https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/trench-composting/9438032
Story and Factsheet with Tino: https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/compost-trench/10213610
Re-purposing and Old Bathtub into a Worm Farm
https://www.facebook.com/ABCTV/videos/1608895892466383
https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/worms-on-the-verge/9440978
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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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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.
47. Screen Time w/ Lauren Bonner


» Remember the days when we were told that we shouldn't sit so close to the television, or else we would end up with square eyes? Simpler times, weren't they? Now, we spend far more time in front of screens that are much closer to our eyes than TVs ever were. And in one way or another, we're addicted to screens, especially our phones - and we feel a great sense of guilt about it. So, what shall we do about screen time?
Enter Sydney comedian Lauren Bonner, who joined me to chat about her experience with screens. Together we discussed the perils of screen addiction, the ways in which phones affect mental health, and whether there are actually ways we can reduce screen time.
Lauren Bonner is on Twitter @laurenybonner and Instagram @laurenybonner.
The article mentioned in this episode is 'We've Got the Screen Time Debate All Wrong. Let's Fix It' by Robbie Gonzalez at Wired.
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.
46. Curiosity w/ Corey Tutt


» Remember when you were a kid, and you wanted to know the answers to every question under the sun? What makes the sky blue? Why is a rock called a rock? Where do flies go when it rains? How does a TV get its pictures? Children have a natural childlike wonder that adults just don't have. Why is that? Did Google kill our sense of curiosity, and our ability to wonder?
My guest this week is Corey Tutt. Corey is a Kamilaroi man who is working hard to help kids - particularly indigenous Australian kids - have their curiosity stoked. Named the NSW Young Australian of the Year for 2020, Corey founded Deadly Science - an initiative that provides remote schools with scientific resources and access to mentors working in STEM.
You can keep up with Corey and Deadly Science on Instagram @deadlyscience_ltd, and if you would like to contribute to the excellent work of Deadly Science, you can do so at deadlyscience.icu.
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.
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.
44. Trivia w/ Cheryl Toh


» Did you know that bees have five eyes? That Billy Joel hasn't released a new single since 1993? That raccoons were originally poised to become the go-to model for animal experiments?
These are fun little facts you pick up and can pull out at parties, or even trivia nights. But sometimes the fun of trivia can be upturned by competitiveness, or someone at your table who dominates and ruins the fun for the rest of the team. When did learning stuff about the world become a chore?
Joining me to discuss is Cheryl Toh - better known as Tiger Mum - one of the Chasers on game show The Chase Australia. Her job is to know more trivia than those who face her, and she has a great passion for knowledge and learning new things about the world around her.
Cheryl Toh can be seen on The Chase Australia, weeknights from 5pm on the Seven Network. And keep an eye out for Beat the Chasers, coming soon to primetime.
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.
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.
42. Cats w/ Lewis McKirdy


» Are you a cat person, or a dog person? It's kinda weird that our society makes us choose one or the other. I'm a dog person, but that's mainly because I only ever had dogs growing up. But this mindset makes me see cats as selfish creatures, bird killers, and unwanted top-of-your-desk sitters.
But - maybe I'm wrong. Perhaps I just need to change my tone. So, what shall we do about cats?
To find a solution, I phoned the UK to speak with Australian expat, former radio guy, and certified cat fan Lewis McKirdy. Since hanging up the headphones at triple j in late 2016, Lewi has moved to London and has spent time driving an Animal Ambulance for injured cats. Yes, really. And as you might expect from Lewi, our conversation took some surprising turns, including a foray into musical theatre.
Lewis McKirdy is on Twitter @lewimckirdy and on Instagram @lewimckirdy. You can hear his podcast Animal Ambulance wherever you listen to podcasts.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
36. Birds w/ Chris Bath


» How do you feel about birds?
Those feathered friends that screech at daybreak, poop on your back deck, and swoop you in springtime. OK - so maybe that's a harsh assessment, but I think it's how many of us think about birds. And yet - there are 10,000 different species of bird around the world ranging from tiny hummingbirds to massive ostriches. They are pretty astounding creatures. So how can we can better appreciate them?
I've brought in the biggest bird enthusiast I know - journalist and broadcaster Chris Bath. As she explains, she has been a keen birdwatcher for some time thanks to her son, and her passion for birds has taken her around the world to some very unusual places.
You can find Chris on Twitter @chrisbathtv, and see her many bird adventures on Instagram @chrisbath. Chris Bath hosts 10 News First, weekends from 5pm on the 10 Network.
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.
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.
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
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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: @
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
26. Trains w/ Alex Dyson


» Here in Australia we have some of the best options for public transport in the world. The only problem is that they don't often run on time, and one single problem can impact an entire network.
One man who knows this all too well is former triple j Breakfast host turned podcaster and author Alex Dyson. Alex ran for parliament in 2019 and public transport was high up on his list as far as changes were concerned. So, what shall we do about trains? We discussed this at length in this bumper episode, and hopefully Alex's cracking stories and experiences will give you a much-needed laugh in this COVID-19 world.
Alex Dyson is on Instagram @aedyson and on Twitter @AlexDyson. Alex's debut novel When It Drops is out today, and you can order a copy for yourself at Booktopia. You can also hear him weekly on the podcast Mirth.
You can also hear Alex's first appearance on this podcast, when we discussed COVID-19 and self-isolation 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.
25. Willful Ignorance w/ Sophie McNeill


» How much do you know about the world you live in? Or maybe the question I should ask, is, how much do you choose to know about the world you live in? Don't get me wrong, at the moment our world is overwhelming. As this episode releases we're living through a pandemic, practicing self isolation, and we crave normality. And yet, in many parts of the globe, disruption has been happening for years - even decades. Often, I feel like we turn a blind eye to what's happening in our world, including atrocities.
Sophie McNeill is an investigative reporter for Four Corners, and former Middle East correspondent for the ABC, and has been challenged deeply by what she has witnessed. Sophie is the perfect person to ask: What shall we do about willful ignorance and complacency? With so much happening in our own bubbles, how can we ensure we understand the situation of those who face injustice daily?
You can find Sophie on Twitter @sophiemcneill, and her book We Can't Say We Didn't Know is available to order at HarperCollins.
Thank you so much for listening to this podcast! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. Leaving a rating and review helps as well. You can follow the show on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. If you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
24. DJs w/ Andrew Levins


» DJs, if they have a decent mix and playlist, can make any party come alive. But what happens when that party is shut down, potentially for months on end? This is the reality for many music makers across the world, and there's a real concern that on the other side of this COVID-19 pandemic, things will have changed so much that the club scene might not bounce back.
So, what shall we do about DJs? I've enlisted one of Australia's best, and most enduring DJs, Andrew Levins, to discuss. He's also written a kids book about vegetables, which seems a little out of place - so we talk about that too.
You can find Andrew Levins on Twitter @levdawg and on Instagram @levdawg.
His brand new book 'Nelson: Pumpkins and Aliens' is available to order here. Also, as mentioned in the episode, you can sign up for Levins' Mixtape Service at Patreon.
You can find more about Levins' infamous Meredith Music Festival DJ set at the VICE article 'An Oral History of Levins's Iconic Meredith 2015 Party Set'.
You can also listen back to Alice Zaslavsky's episode about vegetables, here.
Thank you so much for listening to this podcast! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. Leaving a rating and review helps as well. You can follow the show on Instagram and Facebook, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
23. Cycling w/ Katherine Feeney


» When did you last ride a bike? Perhaps you're a keen mountain biker, or you love to go for weekend rides with your family. Or perhaps you're like me, and you haven't jumped on a bike since you were a kid. It feels too dangerous to ride your bike in the city, and the weather is too variable to make it a reliable source of transport. And yet, we all know the value in cycling - for our health, and for the environment.
Joining the podcast this week is ABC Radio Brisbane broadcaster Katherine Feeney. Katherine is a proud utility cyclist who rides to work every day - even in heels. She offers some great statistics that just might motivate you to get back on your bike, or even take up cycling for the first time.
You can hear Katherine Feeney on ABC Radio Brisbane weekdays from 12:30pm local time. Katherine is on Twitter @katherinefeeney and you can see Katherine's cycling adventures on Instagram @KatherineFeeney.
The article referenced in this podcast is 'One in five Australian drivers admits to cyclist road rage, survey finds' by Patrick Keneally at The Guardian.
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. You can follow the show on Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
22. COVID-19 + Self-Isolation w/ Alex Dyson


» Usually this show attempts to solve the world's less pressing problems, but this week there's really only one issue that the world is talking about: corona virus. This devastating pandemic has seen unprecedented measures put in place to protect people around the world from illness and death. Countries have been placed into lockdown, health systems have been tested, supermarket shelves have been emptied, and as this episode drops Australia has just closed its borders to all non-residents. It's hard to find hope among all of this.
And so, we turn to a man currently in 14 days of self-isolation after returning from a trip to New Zealand - despite being of good health. Former triple j Breakfast host turned author Alex Dyson has, like many, had plans and events greatly disrupted by COVID-19, yet offers some tips on how to turn self-isolation into a positive, productive experience.
Alex Dyson is on Instagram @aedyson and on Twitter @AlexDyson. Alex's debut novel When It Drops releases on May 1, and it can be pre-ordered right now at Booktopia. You can also hear his adventures in self-isolation on the podcast Mirth.
Thanks for listening - stay safe - and you can drop me a line anytime at whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. And don't forget there's plenty of episodes to catch up on if you're looking for something to do across the coming months!
Due to the nature of this topic, I'm dropping this episode a few days early. We'll continue with regular Tuesday episodes from March 31 - with a number of excellent topics and guests recorded before self-isolation restrictions came into place.
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. You can also follow the show on Instagram. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
21. Clutter w/ Dan Ilic


» Whether we like it or not, we all have to deal with clutter. Over years we collect stuff, and often we struggle to let it go. In early 2019, Marie Kondo's KonMari method for organisation gained worldwide popularity, thanks to the Netflix show Tidying Up. In Australia, op shops were inundated with donations as people decluttered whatever did not 'spark joy', as the method goes.
Imagine though, that you're faced with sorting through 30+ years of stuff? Sounds overwhelming, doesn't it? This is the challenge that comedian and producer Dan Ilic faced in early 2020 as his parents worked towards selling their Sydney home. Dan documented his efforts on Twitter in a game called 'Keep or Chuck', and through this process he learned some fascinating new things about his family.
You can find Dan on Twitter and Instagram, and his website is danilic.com. His latest series Riot Act is available on Audible, and you can subscribe to his podcast A Rational Fear.
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, and review to your heart's content! You can follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com.
What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
20. Vegetables w/ Alice Zaslavsky


» Most parents know the struggle that is getting your kids to eat vegetables at dinner time. Maybe it's that classic moment from The Simpsons where Homer and Bart chant, 'You don't win friends with salad', that did it. Or maybe it's because our own parents worked super hard to sell veggies to us. Ever heard, 'Carrots will make you see in the dark!'?
I'm thrilled that for our twentieth (!) episode we've got former MasterChef Australia contestant turned chef and author Alice Zaslavsky to talk about her favourite thing in the world - vegetables. She's currently shooting photos for a brand new book about vegetables, and has spent the last few years creating Phenomenom - a resource for teachers and kids that 'flips food education on its head'. You'll hear in this episode how hard Alice has been working to help kids fall in love with food in a way that she did growing up in the Soviet Union.
Alice is on Twitter @aliceinframes and on Instagram @aliceinframes. Keep up to date with Alice's excellent endeavours at aliceinframes.com. Alice's book about vegetables is due out in November 2020.
The article referenced in this podcast is 'Why A Staggering Number Of Aussies Aren't Eating Their Veggies' by Jessica Dunne at 10 Daily.
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. You can follow the show on Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
19. Singing w/ Astrid Jorgensen


» For most of us, singing doesn't feel natural.
Unless you're hidden away in the comfort of your own car, or belting out 80s tunes in a karaoke bar, singing is very nerve wracking. And so, the fear of humiliation and embarrassment keeps our mouths shut. So, what shall we do about singing?
Joining me this week is director of Pub Choir, Astrid Jorgensen. Pub Choir has become a monthly ritual for many in Brisbane - where Astrid teaches average singers like you and me a three-part harmony, which is sung before the end of the night with voices a thousand strong. It's a really cool idea that encourages everyone to sing loudly and proudly. Astrid shares the importance of using the instrument that we all have inside of us - our voices.
You can find Astrid on Instagram and Twitter, and more information about Pub Choir is at pubchoir.com.au.
Pub Choir is also coming to Sydney for a special show at the Metro Theatre on Monday 20th April. Get tickets 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, and let your friends know! You can follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com.
What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
18. Weather Presenters w/ Sam Mac


» For decades, television weather presenters have played an important part in our lives - helping us know what to wear, whether or not to hang out washing, and whether carrying an umbrella to work is worthwhile.
Recently, however, we've been able to gain all this knowledge with a tap on our smart phones. So, what shall we do about weather presenters? Have they been relegated solely to adding colour on Breakfast television, as they get out and about?
Thankfully, I've rounded up the weather presenter on Australia's top rating breakfast television show - Sunrise. Sam Mac has been informing Australia of weather patterns for a number of years now, all while keeping to a gruelling schedule of travel around the nation. But what's incredible about Sam is that he is an entertainer, and extremely good at what he does - evidenced in a nomination for the Gold Logie in 2019. We discuss his career, how much he really knows about the weather, and whether he feels like weather apps will be the end of weather presenters as we know them.
You can follow Sam on Twitter @MrSamMac, and on Instagram at @sammacinsta. And as he mentions in this episode, his cat Coco is on Instagram @lifeofmisscoco. And of course you can see Sam on Sunrise, weekdays from 5:30am on the Seven Network.
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, and let your friends know! You can follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com.
What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
17. Radio w/ James Cridland


» Do you still listen to the radio?
While we used to have to wait to hear our favourite songs played, now we can stream what we want, when we want. And if you consider the rising popularity of podcasts, we must ask - is radio is a dying medium? For this Breakfast radio host, I hope that's not the case.
So, I've called in the big guns. A radio futurologist. Yes - James Cridland has worked in radio since 1989, and knows media movements extremely well, especially regarding radio and podcasts. We discuss the way in which radio has changed and will change, and what it is able to achieve that music streaming and podcasts cannot.
James Cridland is on Twitter @jamescridland, and I thoroughly recommend his free daily briefing email podnews - sign up at podnews.net. Read more about James at james.cridland.net.
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, and let your friends know! You can follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com.
What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
16. Albums w/ Dami Im


» For decades, albums have been carefully crafted pieces of art. A combination of tracks, often with movement and story. However now, the music industry has changed with streaming services more often than not leaning towards singles and curated playlists. So what about the album? Are albums dead, or have they been reduced to something lesser that it used to be?
Joining me to discuss is Australian musician and Eurovision runner-up Dami Im, who has a bunch of albums under her belt, and is still moving with the streaming times. Dami's manager Ken Outch also weighs in on the conversation.
You can find Dami on Instagram and Twitter, and her latest single is Marching On. She's also competing on Dancing With the Stars Australia, Sundays at 7:30pm on the 10 Network.
The article referenced in this podcast is 'Charli XCX Explains How Streaming Is Changing Songs' by Dani Deahl at The Verge.
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. You can follow the show on Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
15. Plays w/ Melanie Tait


» When's the last time you saw a play? No, not a musical - a proper play? When I think of plays, I think of them as being a sport for affluent folk, or something that you do in high school. Therefore, I haven't seen a play in years. But perhaps this is a perception problem.
I'm joined this week by journalist, broadcaster, and executive producer of Mamamia's The Quicky podcast, Melanie Tait. Melanie is a passionate playwright, with some successful titles to her name, and a brand new play called A BROADCAST COUP just about to debut. She explains the reasons why plays aren't a large industry in Australia, and shares an encouragement to support locally made plays - no matter what your age.
You can find Melanie on Instagram and Twitter, and her brand new play A BROADCAST COUP opens at Sydney's Ensemble Theatre on April 17 and runs until May 23. It then continues to Canberra. Tickets are available at The Ensemble Theatre website - do go and support a local play!
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, and let your friends know! You can follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com.
What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
14. News w/ Alice Matthews


» We are constantly confronted by news - and sadly, most of it isn't good. Our social feeds, radio stations, and TV channels provide us with information as news breaks around the world, quicker than ever before. But while it is good to stay up to date with the news, it can also be incredibly exhausting and saddening. So, what shall we do about the news? Joining the show to discuss is accomplished journalist Alice Matthews, who spent a number of years with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, and now fronts The Feed on SBS.
You can find Alice on Instagram @alice.k.matthews, and Alice will be back on your television soon with brand new episodes of The Feed on SBS.
The article discussed in this episode is 'Bored by Brexit? British TV starts Brexit-free news channel' by Guy Faulconbridge at Reuters.
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, and let your friends know! You can follow the show on Facebook and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
13. Nostalgia w/ Matt Okine


» Remember the good old days? Back before screen addiction, when homes were affordable, and we were all safer?
Nostalgia takes us back to happier places - but it's also making us long for a time that is not the present. So, what shall we do about nostalgia? And are our memories fooling us into thinking that things were better than they actually were? Joining me to discuss is comedian, actor, author and former triple j Breakfast host Matt Okine, whose new book is set in the 1990s and brimming with nostalgia - both good and bad.
You can find Matt on Instagram and Twitter, and his book Being Black & Chicken & Chips is available now.
Matt is taking his brand new show SOLO DINER around Australia in 2020, including a run at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Find all the dates at mattokine.com.
The article discussed in this episode is 'On Frozen 2 and Disney's Nostalgia Problem' by Alissa Wilkinson at Vox.
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, and let your friends know! You can follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com.
What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
12. Libraries w/ Tim Harris


» Libraries are centres of fun and learning - it's a bookworm's paradise. However, when CD stores and video shops have closed down everywhere, are libraries endangered? Are they under threat of becoming havens for free air conditioning and wi-fi? Joining me to discuss is children's author (notably of the Mr. Bambuckle's Remarkables series), former school teacher, and big kid Tim Harris.
Tim shares about the importance of libraries, what happens when school libraries close down, and describes just how precious our libraries are.
You can find Tim Harris on Instagram @timharrisbooks and on Twitter @timharrisbooks, and his latest book Toffle Towers: The Great River Race is out now. Read more about Tim at his website.
The article discussed in this episode is 'Libraries are dying - but it's not about the books' by Simon Jenkins at The Guardian.
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. You can follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com.
What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
11. Hey Hey It's Saturday (and Cancel Culture) w/ John Patterson


» Happy New Year! We're kicking off 2020 with a bit of a different episode, as we talk to musician John Patterson of Brisbane band The Grates. John spent much of 2019 editing together videos made from old episodes of Australian variety show, Hey Hey It's Saturday (which initially ran from 1971 to 1999). In fact, as John shares, this editing became an obsession.
What he discovered and created is a number of rather uncomfortable moments from Australian television history, which John believes is indicative of wider Australian culture. This led to a conversation about cancel culture - one of the bigger discussions of 2019. What shall we do about mistakes made in the past, documented for all to see?
You can find John on Twitter @thegrates, and the Hey Hey videos can be seen on Instagram @jhonpatterson. And if you really want to subscribe to the Hey Hey It's Saturday subscription service... it is indeed online.
The article discussed in this episode is 'Why Cancel Culture Doesn't Always Work', by Leah Asmelash at CNN.
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. And bonus points to you if you share the podcast with your friends.
You can follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
10. Goals w/ Lucy Smith


» It's the start of a brand new year, and you might have made some goals for yourself... that you may well fail at achieving. How then, do we create realistic goals for ourselves? And how do we actually pull them off? Joining the show this week is radio host Lucy Smith, who spent ten years working towards her dream goal of working at national youth broadcaster triple j. And, she's about to take over the prestigious triple j Mornings slot in 2020. So, how did she do it? And how can we stay focussed on achieving our own goals?
Lucy Smith can be found on Instagram and Twitter, and you can hear her on triple j Mornings from January 6, 2020.
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. You can follow the show on Facebook and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
9. Streaming Services w/ Dan Barrett


» The last few years have seen a boom in streaming services, and the way we consume television. Netflix, Stan, Kayo, and more recently Apple TV+ and Disney+ - there's a streaming service for everyone. But - to have them all isn't affordable, so can they co-exist? And how do we pick and choose well for our summer holiday streaming?
Joining me to discuss is writer and podcaster Dan Barrett, who covers television news in his daily newsletter Always Be Watching. Dan shares how he gained such expertise in the world of TV, discusses strategies around making the most of streaming services - as well as their pros and cons, and provides a few tips on what to stream this summer.
You can find Dan on Twitter, and I can't recommend enough subscribing to his daily newsletter at alwaysbewatching.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. You can follow the show on Facebook and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
8. Christmas w/ Colin Buchanan


» Is there a more stressful time of year than Christmas? One day demands weeks of work in the lead-up. Car parks at shopping centres are few, end of year events fill the calendar, and food and gift shopping require real strategy. So, what shall we do about Christmas? Joining me to discuss is country music singer and former Play School presenter Colin Buchanan, who has released a number of Christmas albums, and is the self-proclaimed 'Aussie Christmas Guy'.
You can find Colin on Instagram and at colinbuchanan.com.au. And as we discussed, a great place to buy a gift this Christmas is the Gifts of Compassion catalogue.
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. You can follow the show on Facebook and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
7. Live Sport w/ Cayla George


» Seeing sport live can be thrilling, but it does come at a cost. Expensive tickets, food and drinks; lines for the toilets at half-time... all which could be avoided by watching from home (usually with better views). So, what shall we do about live sport?
Joining me to discuss is professional Australian basketball player Cayla George, who currently plays for the Melbourne Boomers in the WNBL, but has also won gold with the Opals in the 2018 Commonwealth Games. We dive deep into live sport from a player's perspective - and also discuss the very real issue of men's vs women's sport.
You can find Cayla on Instagram and Twitter, and you can discover more about her coaching programmes at caylageorge.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. You can follow the show on Facebook and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
6. Podcasts w/ Marc Fennell


» There are too many podcasts in the world (Apple Podcasts boasts 700,000 and counting), and just about anyone can (and does) make their own podcast these days. So how do we unearth the podcast gold? And what makes a good podcast? Joining me to discuss is TV and radio host, Marc Fennell - a man whose Audible original podcast It Burns has been nominated for a very prestigious award. We discuss podcasting at length, ponder what makes a good podcast, why true crime is so popular, and more.
You can find Marc on Instagram and Twitter, and his Rose D'Or nominated podcast It Burns is available now on Audible.
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. You can follow the show on Facebook and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
5. TV Ratings w/ Mark Humphries


» The way we watch television has changed significantly in recent years with the introduction of digital channels, streaming services, and catch-up. And yet, overnight TV ratings are still how we measure the success of TV shows. So, what shall we do about TV ratings? Joining me to discuss is comedian and satirist Mark Humphries, whose Channel 10 quiz show Pointless was cancelled earlier in 2019 due to low ratings. He joins the show to talk about the highs and lows of television ratings, discovering Pointless had been axed, and the role of television comedy in a world of changing viewing habits.
You can find Mark Humphries on Instagram and Twitter.
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 a huge help too. You can follow the show on Facebook and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
4. The Music Industry w/ KLP


» The music scene has changed rapidly across the last decade. Artists can get global attention via streaming services, but many say that streaming means a lot of legwork is needed in order for musicians to make ends meet. So, what shall we do about the music industry? Is there a better way that we, the consumer, can support music makers? Joining me to discuss is producer, DJ, artist and former triple j radio host Kristy Lee Peters, better known as KLP, who has spent many years both producing music and supporting others doing the same.
You can find KLP on Instagram and Twitter, and her debut album Giver is out now. KLP is touring Australia through Summer, starting December 1st in Manly. Tour dates and tickets are available 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. You can follow the show on Facebook and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
3. Homework w/ Eddie Woo


» We're heading to the classroom this week with Maths teacher and WooTube star Eddie Woo. Homework is often criticised for adding more work to an already busy day for students - but is it possible for us to get a good balance? Eddie also shares his thoughts on the NSW Department of Education's changes to the Higher School Certificate, and teacher burnout.
You can find Eddie on Instagram and Twitter, and his new book is called Eddie Woo's Magical Maths.
Thanks for listening to the show, it means a lot! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. You can follow the show on Facebook and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com.
What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
2. Gardening w/ Zach Mander


» We're talking gardening this week on the show with surprising gardening enthusiast Zach Mander, one half of radio duo Collective Noun. Gardening has often been thought of as an activity for the more mature aged folk in society - and to be honest looks like a lot of hard work. But Zach proves that all you need to grow green thumbs is to watch about 60 odd hours of ABC TV's Gardening Australia.
You can find Zach on Instagram, and hear him on Collective Noun, Mon-Thurs from 11pm across the Hit Network.
Thanks so much for listening! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. You can follow the show on Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
1. Flying w/ Ash London


» We're taking to the skies for our first episode with the host of Ash London Live, and frequent flyer, Ash London. Ash is the perfect person to talk with to try and improve flying, because she's terrified of it. And yet, she flies all around the world interviewing musicians for her job. We also step behind the curtain and discuss what business class is like. Ooh la la...
You can find Ash on Instagram and Twitter, and hear her on Ash London Live, Weeknights from 6:30pm across the Hit Network.
Thanks for listening to the first episode of What Shall We Do About...?, it means a lot! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. You can follow the show on Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com. What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.
Teaser Trailer


» The world is full of problems, but most don't make the headlines. Here's your first taste of What Shall We Do About...?, where each week radio host Sam Robinson will be joined by a prominent personality to try to improve, and perhaps even solve some of the world's less-pressing issues.
Subscribe now to get the show into your feed every Tuesday, starting November 5.
Connect with the show on Instagram at @whatshallwedopod, and get in touch at whatshallwedopod@gmail.com

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