Author, scholar and former Poet Laureate Dr Selina Tusitala Marsh discusses the origins of her award-winning children's book series Mophead. In this episode, she talks about the third instalment of the series, Wot Knot You Got? Mophead's Guide to Life. She explains how the idea of Mophead came about and how the books have resonated with children and adults alike. Selina’s new book is being released on 9 November, click here to order your copy: https://aucklanduniversitypress.co.nz/wot-knot-you-got-mopheads-guide-to-life/

Dr Rowan Light discusses how Anzac Day has transformed from a quiet veterans’ reunion in 1965 to a popular and deeply meaningful national event. 

Dr Rebecca Phillipps discusses a ground-breaking project using an AI programme to identify stones that have been modified by early humans to use as tools. Academics from archaeology and bioengineering have collaborated to train AI to recognise features of human-modified artefacts and speed up the classification process.

How do your views align with New Zealand’s political parties? Associate Professor Jennifer Lees-Marshment discusses the relaunch of Vote Compass ahead of the election on 14 October. Used by almost half a million people during the last election, the online tool is backed by the Electoral Commission and delivered by the University of Auckland and Victoria University. She also talks about her new book, which illustrates the challenges facing political staff in democracies around the world. Find out more: Vote Compass The Human Resource Management of Political Staffers

Associate Professor Alice Mills discusses the challenges ex-prisoners face when they are thrust back into the outside world with just $350 for rent. She highlights a lack of support and limited resources which often lead to unstable housing situations and former inmates returning to a life of crime. You can read the report in full here: Going Straight Home: Post-prison housing experiences and the role of stable housing in reducing reoffending in Aoteaora.

Associate Professor Paula Morris discusses an upcoming anthology of contemporary Māori short stories; Wharerangi, a Māori literature hub; and the foundation of Aotearoa New Zealand Review of Books.     Find out more about the projects and websites Paula is involved with: Academy of New Zealand Literature Wharerangi, The Māori Literature Hub Hiwa: Contemporary Māori Short Stories) Auckland University Press

John Middleton discusses the impact of climate change on low-lying atolls like Tokelau and the challenges they face in maintaining their language due to the possibility of forced migration.

Dr Carisa Showden shares insights from Fierce Hope: Youth Activism in Aotearoa, a new book that explores the motivations and experiences of young activists in New Zealand.

Dr Tom Gregory discusses the weaponisation of civilian protection in conflicts like Afghanistan. He highlights the impact of shifting perspectives on civilian casualties, which came to be viewed more as a strategic setback than a humanitarian crisis by coalition forces.