Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences

PsychTalks

A Social Sciences , Science and Health & Fitness podcast

#20 in Social Sciences · 🇦🇺 #54 in Social Sciences · 🇮🇪

About the show

This is PsychTalks: a podcast that deep dives into groundbreaking research in psychology. Hear psychology and neuroscience experts unpack how our minds work – and discover how these insights can enrich your own life and help others. Made by the University of Melbourne’s School of Psychological Sciences.

Newest episodes

What happened to the SunSmart generation?

Nov 11, 2026 33 min

“No hat, no play” has become synonymous with Australian childhoods. We’re very aware of the risk of sun damage – and were one of the first countries to ban sunbeds – so why is suntanning suddenly having a resurgence in popularity? Dr Anna Nicholson and Emma Glassenbury explain how social norms shape attitudes towards tanning and sun safety. Drawing on research with young Australians, they discuss social media, influencers, changing beauty trends and the challenges of public health messaging in a digital world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can your lifestyle choices affect your child’s brain?

Oct 6, 2026 47 min

Before you’re even born, your parents’ health is already shaping your future wellbeing. Welcome to the world of epigenetics: where environmental factors – stress, diet and infection – leave molecular marks on genes, altering their expression across generations. Professor Anthony Hannan from the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health shares how a father’s health can impact offspring development, why our hunter-gatherer brains struggle with modern life and how precision medicine could transform future healthcare. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are children trying to tell us when they struggle at school?

Sep 22, 2026 52 min

Many children are struggling to attend school, but what if we've been getting the story wrong? In this episode of PsychTalks, Associate Professor Sarah Knight and Natasha Staheli explore how children's distress is often mistaken for misbehaviour and why terms like "school refusal" can fail to capture the reality of many children's actual experiences, especially the role of neurodivergence and impact of masking. Together, they look at what parents and educators can do to better support children so they feel safe, understood and ready to learn. Yellow Ladybugs is a non-government organisation, dedicated to the happiness, success and celebration of autistic girls, women and gender diverse individuals. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Similar podcasts

Hidden Brain Hidden Brain, Shankar Vedantam

Boring History for Sleep Velvet

That UFO Podcast That UFO Podcast

Skeptoid Brian Dunning

Suspicious Minds: AI and the Apocalypse Agoric Media

You Are Not So Smart You Are Not So Smart

Therapist Uncensored Podcast Sue Marriott LCSW, CGP & Ann Kelley PhD

Something You Should Know Mike Carruthers | OmniCast Media

All episodes

What happened to the SunSmart generation?

Nov 11, 2026 33 min

Can your lifestyle choices affect your child’s brain?

Oct 6, 2026 47 min

What are children trying to tell us when they struggle at school?

Sep 22, 2026 52 min

Why do so many drivers say "sorry mate, I didn't see you"?

Sep 8, 2026 41 min

If you’ve ever looked directly at a motorcyclist while driving – yet completely failed to see them – you’re not alone. The phenomenon is so common, riders refer to it as a “smidsy” (or, “sorry mate, I didn’t see you”.) Professor Kristen Pammer and Dr Angus McKerral discuss the cognitive demands of driving; explaining how inattentional blindness can render a motorcyclist invisible and exploring the promises and pitfalls of self-driving cars. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is cycle syncing science or social media hype?

Aug 25, 2026 33 min

‘Cycle syncing’ has exploded online, promoting the idea that women can optimise their wellbeing by planning everything from workouts to work commitments around their menstrual cycles. But what does the science actually say? Dr Lindsie Arthur cuts through the pop psychology hype and discusses the current research around hormones, behaviour and performance. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is alcohol dependence about more than willpower?

Jul 28, 2026 28 min

Alcohol is a normal part of life for many Australians. But why do some people develop problems with drinking while others don't? Dr Antoinette Poulton unpacks the link between impulsivity and hazardous drinking, and explains why our decisions around alcohol are shaped by much more than willpower. From personalised feedback to smartphone-based interventions, we explore how researchers are finding new ways to help people better understand their drinking and make lasting changes. Relevant links: Learn more about Antoinette's research: She is currently recruiting for a study charting cannabis use form and method in Australia, to assist with future app development: https://go.unimelb.edu.au/gnf2 For other current projects: https://hesterlab.org/projects If you have concerns about your own or someone else's drinking, you call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 or visit Daybreak at hellosundaymorning.org. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why are Australians so addicted to sports betting?

Jul 13, 2026 38 min

Online sports betting is now part of everyday life in Australia. But how do betting apps actually work, and why are they so hard to ignore? In this episode, Dr Daniel Bennett explores the psychology behind modern betting products, and how they are designed to keep people hooked. He explains how features like in-play betting, cash-out options and constant advertising shape our behaviour – often in ways we don't notice. Dr Bennett also discusses the risks of gambling, including who is most affected and why, and what can be done to reduce harm. Related links: A Better Bet: How Australia Should Prevent Gambling Harm (2024 report by the Grattan Institute) The 4 Corners report about the NT Racing and Wagering Commission. If you or anyone you know needs support or help for gambling, please contact Gambling Help Online (or on 1800 858 858). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hidden biases in humans and machines: Can we really be fair?

Apr 21, 2026 1 hr 4 min

We like to think we’re fair. But what if our minds and our machines don’t always agree? In this special bonus episode of PsychTalks, hosts Professor Nick Haslam and Associate Professor Cassie Hayward are joined by Professor Mahzarin Banaji (Harvard University), one of the world’s leading researchers on implicit bias. Drawing on decades of research across psychology, neuroscience and artificial intelligence, Professor Banaji explains how bias can shape judgments and decisions without our awareness – even when we genuinely value fairness and accuracy. She explores how these hidden processes affect everyday life, social institutions and the technologies we are increasingly relying on. Recorded during Professor Banaji’s visit to the University of Melbourne as a Miegunyah Distinguished Visiting Fellow, this conversation asks what it really means to take responsibility for bias and how a clearer understanding of the human mind might help us build a more just and accountable world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do we ever stop being curious?

Jan 13, 2026 45 min

We said the season was over – but when the chance to sit down with Professor Alison Gopnik comes along, you make an exception. In this bonus episode, we’re delighted to welcome one of the world’s most influential developmental psychologists for an extended conversation on how our minds grow and change over the lifespan. Drawing on her work on children as “little scientists,” the explore–exploit dilemma and her gardener-versus-carpenter model of parenting, Alison reflects on why play, risk and exploration matter so much in childhood. We also explore caregiving as a form of intelligence – one that becomes increasingly important in later life – and what elders, grandparents and even orcas can teach us about care, culture and human flourishing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shelf deception: How does marketing on packaged foods influence us?

Oct 21, 2025 31 min

Are we really making healthy choices for our children in the supermarket? Or are we being nudged by bright colours, on-pack claims and fruit-filled imagery? Associate Professor Helen Dixon and Jane Martin unpack the psychology, policy and packaging that influence what ends up in our shopping trolleys. They highlight the subtle strategies used to market commercial infant and toddler foods, and discuss what can be done to support parents in making informed choices. Kids are Sweet Enough (Food for Health Alliance) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why is misinformation so powerful?

Oct 7, 2025 28 min

Misinformation and disinformation now pose some of the biggest global risks to democracy and public trust. Associate Professor Piers Howe explains how misinformation and disinformation spreads, and the subtle but influential ways they can shift public opinion, disrupt elections and damage society. With the rise of AI and sophisticated campaigns, he explains why it's more important than ever to stay informed, think critically and understand the science behind persuasion. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How does power and influence shape our lives?

Sep 23, 2025 31 min

Want tips on how to use power and influence more effectively - whether you’re pitching an idea, leading a team, or asking your preschooler to brush their teeth? Professor Jennifer Overbeck unpacks what sets power apart from influence, how persuasion works, and why gender, identity and context matter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can self-compassion help us better navigate menopause?

Sep 9, 2025 30 min

What are the mental health impacts of menopause and how are they connected with our ideas about ageing? Dr Lydia Brown shares insights from her research on self-compassion and how it can help those managing the psychological challenges of menopause. Whether you’re approaching menopause or simply interested in evidence-based strategies for a healthy outlook on ageing, this conversation offers practical and deeply human advice for navigating change. Resources mentioned in this episode: Australian Menopause Society Jean Hailes Centre for Women's Health See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How does language shape the way we think?

Aug 26, 2025 27 min

What do the names of colours, kinship terms and legal jargon tell us about the human mind? Dr Frank Mollica explores language as a cognitive tool – shaped by culture, adapted for purpose, and far from universal. We dive into how children learn language, how it evolves and why legal language is so confusing. Along the way, we challenge common assumptions about how we think, communicate and learn. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are some people just nicer?

Aug 12, 2025 24 min

Why do some people seem naturally kind or generous? Professor Luke Smillie breaks down personality traits like empathy, honesty and compassion – and how they shape behaviour. Tune into this thoughtful discussion about the ‘prosocial personality’ and discover whether people can become more altruistic over time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can social media bans protect young minds?

Jul 29, 2025 23 min

Will the Australian government really lock under-16s out of TikTok? Associate Professor Scott Griffiths returns to PsychTalks to unpack Australia’s proposed social media ban. He breaks down the psychological harms driving the policy, the challenges and possible pathways to secure enforcement, and what anxious parents can do to protect kids’ mental health online. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How does Ozempic affect the brain in binge eating disorder?

Jul 15, 2025 28 min

Could Ozempic do more than help with weight loss? Dr Trevor Steward is uncovering the science behind what’s happening in the brain when people take drugs like Ozempic. His research queries how these medications influence appetite, food-related thoughts, and their potential to turn down the dial on binge eating disorder. Read more in Dr Steward's article for Pursuit. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do we keep secrets?

Dec 11, 2024 25 min

Unlock the psychological reasons behind why we hold onto secrets. Associate Professor Katie Greenaway and Valentina Bianchi explore the emotional costs and benefits of keeping secrets. Discover who we often confide in and hear a clinical psychologist’s perspective on being a professional secret-keeper. And take this survey at keepingsecrets.org to compare your secrets with others. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can bots improve our mental health?

Nov 26, 2024 27 min

Discover how the AI revolution is entering the world of psychology and clinical practice. Professor Simon Dennis shares his quest to craft AI-driven tools for therapy. Can bots help address the shortage of mental health professionals by providing affordable, 24/7 support? And what are the ethical, practical and philosophical questions behind using therapist bots as part of therapy treatment? Find out more about Simon's AI-driven cognitive behavioural therapy tools. Please be advised that this episode discusses suicide and suicide ideation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could cognitive neuroscience influence how we teach and learn?

Nov 10, 2024 25 min

Do 'brain-training' apps or mindfulness exercises really boost our capacity to learn? Professor Iroise Dumontheil shares her research into why we differ in our ability to control our attention, thoughts and behaviour. Hear how these differences impact on our learning and whether cognitive training enhances outcomes in education. Discover how insights from cognitive neuroscience might reshape the future of education by enabling personalised learning. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sleep and pain: What’s keeping you up at night?

Oct 29, 2024 29 min

Managing pain can be part of life for many of us. Professor Amy Jordan and Associate Professor Natalia Brumley unlock the intriguing relationship between sleep and pain. Find out how different types of pain affect sleep quality, if gender is a factor, and in what ways exercise, blue light and social media consumption might have an impact. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can we improve PTSD treatments?

Oct 16, 2024 32 min

PTSD is the second most common mental health disorder. Current treatments work for about half of those affected, but are there better options? Professor Kim Felmingham breaks down exposure therapy and explores if pharmacological-based interventions such as MDMA/ecstasy are really the answer. Plus find out what her studies on exercise reveal about this promising potential line of treatment. Visit the Phoenix Australia website for more information about PTSD and current research trials. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are household inequities ruining your sex life?

Oct 1, 2024 24 min

Studies show there is still a significant gender imbalance in taking on domestic chores and managing a home in most heterosexual relationships. But can this divide also dampen things in bedroom? Dr Emily Harris discusses why women usually take on more, the structural barriers to change and practical strategies for couples. To find out more about her research, visit Emily's website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do teenage brains work?

Sep 17, 2024 33 min

Explore the fascinating world of adolescent brain development and inhibition with Dr Sarah Tashjian. Find out how different parts of the brain mature during adolescence, the crucial role of sleep and the surprising science behind how teens make decisions. Get science-backed tips on how best to talk to teens about risky behaviours and challenges in their formative years. For recommendations on teens use of social media, check out the American Psychological Association’s Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/09/protecting-teens-on-social-media See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do athletes need for good mental health?

Jul 19, 2024 28 min

Excitement is building for the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games – but how do its elite competitors cope with the stress of performing with the eyes of the world upon them? This special episode launching series 3 of PsychTalks unpacks Dr Courtney Walton's latest research into athletes’ mental health. Hear about the strides being made in the professional care of our athlete superstars and how best to support your kid in sport. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What can we do about vaping?

Dec 11, 2023 33 min

E-cigarette use, or vaping, has quickly become a regular habit for many teenagers in Australia and around the world. Associate Professor Michelle Jongenelis talks about the rise of vaping and what steps the government needs to take to curb its widespread misuse. And we ask her: is there a better way to convince young people that vaping might not be the best idea? Discover more about this topic here. Featuring Associate Professor Michelle Jongenelis. Michelle is a Clinical Psychologist with expertise in health promotion and behavioural science. Credits: Hosted by Associate Professor Cassie Hayward and Professor Nick Haslam. Produced by Carly Godden and Louise Sheedy. Mixed by David Calf. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is screen time bad for kids?

Dec 5, 2023 29 min

We’ve all heard the old saying that watching too much TV rots your brain. How much truth is there to this – especially when it comes to kids paying attention in school? Should parents feel guilty about their kids’ screen time? Associate Professor Katherine Johnson has the answers. Read about the featured study here. Featuring Associate Professor Katherine Johnson. Katherine's research is in the area of developmental cognitive neuroscience. Credits: Hosted by Associate Professor Cassie Hayward and Professor Nick Haslam. Produced by Carly Godden and Louise Sheedy. Mixed by David Calf. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do trigger warnings work?

Nov 28, 2023 40 min

Today, trigger or content warnings pop up in much of the media we consume, and have spread to universities and classrooms. But are these warnings actually helping us? Do they make us avoid triggering material, or at least minimise the potential harm involved, if we do see it? This episode, featuring Dr Ella Moeck, invites you to rethink trigger warnings and how we might best deal with confronting topics in our everyday lives. Hosted by Associate Professor Cassie Hayward and Professor Nick Haslam. Produced by Carly Godden and Louise Sheedy. Mixed by David Calf. Discover more about this topic: Meta analysis Instagram papers Art paper Featuring Dr Ella Moeck, Research Fellow in the Functions of Emotion in Everyday Life (FEEL) Lab at the University of Melbourne's School of Psychological Sciences. Ella’s research focuses on the intersection between cognition and emotion. Episode credits: Hosted by Associate Professor Cassie Hayward and Professor Nick Haslam. Produced by Carly Godden and Louise Sheedy. Mixed by David Calf. Music by Chris Falk. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is TikTok toxic for our body image?

Nov 27, 2023 45 min

We've heard that social media can warp perceptions about our bodies, dieting and appearance. So what happens when TikTok invents a new type of algorithm – one that's incredibly powerful at tapping into our inner desires and anxieties? Join us for a new series of PsychTalks and hear Dr Scott Griffiths chat about his astonishing study on how TikTok can harm those vulnerable to eating disorders. Discover more about Scott’s research and check out the Butterfly Foundation. Featuring Dr Scott Griffiths, Psychology Researcher at the University of Melbourne’s School of Psychological Sciences. Scott specialises in body image and physical appearance. Episode credits: Hosted by Associate Professor Cassie Hayward and Professor Nick Haslam. Produced by Carly Godden and Louise Sheedy. Mixed by David Calf. Music by Chris Falk. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus episode: mindfulness and meditation

Jun 26, 2022 5 min

User Experience Researcher and Certified Meditation Teacher Nerida Lennon shares the full version of her loving kindness style meditation exercise. As featured in the episode Mindfulness and meditation: the search for authenticity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mindfulness and meditation: the search for authenticity

Jun 26, 2022 24 min

Mindfulness and meditation are ancient practices that can now be accessed via your smart phone. Mindfulness is everywhere: there’s mindful learning, mindful parenting, mindful business leadership — even mindful soldiers. We’re told these practices reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and blood pressure. And they're being sold for billions. If something sacred has been co-opted by capitalism, is it still ‘good’ for us? Learn more about how to navigate the complex world of mindfulness and meditation, and what to look for if you're considering giving these practices a try. Hosted by Lynne Malcolm for the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences. Featuring Associate Professor Nicholas Van Dam and Nerida Lennon, User Experience Researcher and Certified Meditation Teacher. Our production team is: Carly Godden (producer), Amy Bugeja and Mairead Murray (assistant producers), Arch Cuthburtson (sound engineer) and Chris Falk (music). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can big data unlock human psychology?

Jun 12, 2022 23 min

Today, big data is exploited by corporations and misused by hackers, usually to make money. And we're practically inundated with instances of online privacy violations and data breaches. But some experts believe we can better harness the power of big data for scientific research. By getting a fine-grained picture of individuals, big data research could vastly strengthen diagnosis and treatment of psychological conditions, such as bipolar disorder. This technology also puts the individual user back in control of their data — and even enables them to profit. Hosted by Lynne Malcolm for the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences. Featuring Professor Simon Dennis and data security consultant Troy Hunt. Our production team is: Carly Godden (producer), Amy Bugeja and Mairead Murray (assistant producers), Arch Cuthburtson (sound engineer) and Chris Falk (music). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus episode: scary ads

May 29, 2022 4 min

We've discovered what makes a good fear appeal ad, but what about the ones that miss the mark? Hear our expert Associate Professor Cassie Hayward's take on the Australian Government's Covid-19 vaccination campaign. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How scary ads can change our behaviour

May 29, 2022 21 min

Government and advocacy groups want us all to make healthier and safer choices. Yet, changing undesirable behaviour is notoriously challenging. Why then are fear appeal ads – when done well – such an effective means to jump-start us into action? This episode looks at the ways the Victorian TAC — Transport Accident Commission — leverage fear appeal ads to reduce our road death tolls. Hosted by journalist Lynne Malcolm for the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences. Featuring Associate Professor Cassie Hayward and TAC's Head of Road Safety Sam (Samatha) Cockfield. Our production team is: Carly Godden (producer), Amy Bugeja and Mairead Murray (assistant producers), Arch Cuthburtson (sound engineer) and Chris Falk (music). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do we fall for misinformation?

May 15, 2022 19 min

Misinformation is being weaponised in the media and politics, and many fall down the conspiracy theory spiral. In what ways do our brains predispose us to believe in misinformation? How is our current information environment – especially social media – aiding the spread of ‘fake news’? And can you actually convince true believers to let go of conspiracy theories? Hosted by journalist Lynne Malcolm for the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences. Featuring Associate Professor Andrew Perfors and David Milner from The Shot. Our production team is: Carly Godden (producer), Amy Bugeja and Mairead Murray (assistant producers), Arch Cuthburtson (sound engineer), and Chris Falk (music). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

–

0 ratings from members

Rate this podcast

No reviews yet — be the first member to rate "PsychTalks".

This podcast, its content and its artwork are not owned by, affiliated with, or endorsed by Castquire.

What happened to the SunSmart generation?

Share this podcast

Live Chart rankings

Chart history

🇦🇺 Social Sciences Best #20

Holding at #20 — the line fills in as this chart moves.

🇮🇪 Social Sciences Best #54

Holding at #54 — the line fills in as this chart moves.

Podcast details

Created by: Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 11, 2026
Episodes: 35
Release period: Every two weeks
Avg. episode length: 31 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

Links

Official website ↗ Apple Podcasts ↗ RSS feed ↗

Is this your podcast?

Claim it to show it on your profile. Using the email from your RSS feed approves it instantly.

Keep listening

Discover more podcasts like this.

Browse podcasts See the charts