With the devastating news that Epping footy player Nathan Fitzgerald is on end of life care after suffering head injuries, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss calls for an investigation into how hard cricket pitches are covered on multi-use community sporting ovals. Also in this edition, a peak behind the curtains at the Australian Ballet, what it takes to be a celebrant, plus are "space balls" wash up a Queensland beach.

In this edition of The Conversation Hour Kirsten Diprose is joined by anti-gambling advocate Tim Costello who shares how he thinks the federal government gambling reforms could be improved. Also in this edition, we talk life at 60, plus cross to the States for all the latest on the rumoured Taylor Swift wedding at Madison Square Garden.

It's commonly understood that there are certain unofficial markers we are meant to hit at a certain age, from getting your drivers licence to buying house. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what underpins those social pressures and how to combat the anxiety these social expectations can create. Plus, a new KPMG study says the debate is settled and that current Australian households are in tougher economic times than in 1989 when interest rates hit 17 per cent , but can it ever really be settled which generation had it harder? Also in this edition, we tackle social media cringe and the case for line drying your clothes.

A new report into the stigma and discrimination experienced by people with mental health challenges has highlighted that negative attitudes remain an ongoing issue, despite growing awareness about complex mental health conditions. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we hear from someone who lives with schizophrenia plus National Mental Health Commission to explore what underpins these attitudes and how to reduce stigma and discrimination. Also in this edition, what's driving a warm winter here and a boiling summer in Europe and why there are long lines at the airports in Europe? Plus, Tasmania's Neil the seal is going viral for his somewhat raucous behaviour down at Seven Mile Beach, we talk seal behaviour and hear about your wildlife encounters.   SANE Support line 1800 187 263

A new program, jointly funded by federal and state governments, will see specialist pelvic health educators visit schools to discuss women's health issues such as endometriosis, periods and pelvic pain. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what this means for reducing the mystery and stigma about women's health. Also in this edition, concerns for residents of long-term Salvation Army facility which is facing closure, why hospital GPS are considering industrial action. Plus, we celebrate the rock poster ahead of Rock Posters Printing Factory opening it's doors for Open House Melbourne.

As auction clearance rates and house prices fall, in this edition of The Conversation Hour, we ask how these changes are impacting you? Also in this edition, what it is to live with young onset dementia and the new resource for people recently diagnosed. Plus, why Madonna's biopic was scrapped.   If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au. And for further information on young onset dementia, discussed in this program, visit: forwardwithdementia.au

In this edition of the Conversation Hour we bring you all the action as the Socceroos gear up to compete against Paraguay. Plus, we talk the legaliteis of taking a sickie.

Independents Allegra Spender and Zali Steggall have teamed up to form a new party which they have called Community Strong Australia. In this edition of The Conversation Hour Ms Steggall reflects on what the party will stand for and how the party will work, plus we get analysis from author and former adviser to Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd, Sean Kelly. Also in this edition, a woman living in Syria with links to ISIS, who had been banned from returning, has been issued a permit to come home. International law expert Don Rothwell talks why revoking the temporary exclusion order marks uncharted territory in Australia. Plus, animal behaviourist Dr Kate Mornement takes your calls.

A new study from The University of Melbourne has found there is a lack of evidence that IVF add-ons improve fertility. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we  take a look at the research and discuss what resources are available to women to make informed decisions around treatment. Also in this edition, how much does emotional labour lead to work burnout? Plus, as Daryl Braithwaite announces he will no longer perform live, we ask you how often you see live gigs.

UK PM Keir Starmer has resigned, and ex-Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is favoured to take over role. Some commentary has  focused on the role of charisma in the rise  as a determinant of political success and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we ask  how much charisma, authenticity and conviction  sway who you vote for.  Also  in this edition, the broader impacts of bird flu on wildlife in Australia. Plus, the legacy of music executive Clive Davis who has died aged 94.