The Future Of

Curtin University
  • 4.7 (21)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

The podcast where experts share their vision of the future and how their work is helping shape it for the better. Powered by Curtin University.

  1. Plastic: circular economy, zero waste and the global plastic crisis

    14 APR

    Plastic: circular economy, zero waste and the global plastic crisis

    Is plastic pollution a design flaw we can actually fix?  In this episode, David Karsten and Celeste Fourie are joined by Dr Atiq Zaman, Associate Professor at Curtin University and UN advisor, to discuss why recycling alone won't solve the plastic crisis – and what a genuinely circular system could look like. Why only 14% of Australia's plastic gets recycled [02:35] The REDcycle collapse and the missing market for recycled plastic [04:00] The reality of "green" alternatives like biodegradable plastic [05:44] Zero-trace and non-pollutant plastic: a new framework [08:15] What Australia can learn from informal recycling systems in the Global South [15:49] Waste as a design flaw: what a circular plastic system looks like [26:15] The emerging threat of atmospheric microplastics [31:42] Learn more Beyond Bioplastics: The Zero-Trace Plastic (ZTP) Material Framework Connect with our guests Dr Atiq Zaman Associate Professor at the Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute (CUSP) Dr Atiq Zaman was ranked first globally under ‘zero waste’ by the ScholarGPS database in 2025 and recognised as one of the world's ‘Top 2% Scientists’ by Stanford/Elsevier in 2024. He advises the UN Secretary-General's Council of Engineers for the Energy Transition, has contributed to COP27, COP28, and COP29, and is the Founding Co-Director of the Global South Nexus at Curtin University. His research focuses on developing zero-waste strategies and circular economy tools across sustainable development – from packaging and plastics to cities and the built environment. Curtin staff profile LinkedIn Join Curtin University This podcast is brought to you by Curtin University. Curtin is a global university known for its commitment to making positive change happen through high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and practical teaching. Work with us Study a research degree Start postgraduate education If you loved this episode, you might like our Graduate Diploma or Master of Environment and Climate Emergency.  Got any questions, or suggestions for future topics? Email thefutureof@curtin.edu.au Social media X Facebook Instagram YouTube LinkedIn Transcript Read the transcript Behind the scenes Host: David Karsten and Celeste Fourie Content creator: Caitlin Crowley Producer: Emilia Jolakoska Executive Producers: Anita Shore and Natasha Weeks First Nations Acknowledgement Curtin University acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the First Peoples of this place we call Australia, and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future. Curtin University supports academic freedom of speech. The views expressed in The Future Of podcast may not reflect those of Curtin University.

    36 min
  2. Energy: green tech, critical minerals and net zero

    31 MAR

    Energy: green tech, critical minerals and net zero

    With oil costing more than US$100 a barrel, there’s never been a better time to go green. Meet some of the movers and shakers who are funding and fast-tracking clean energy solutions. In this episode, hosts David and Celeste are joined by Jason McFarlane and Desire Runganga from the GreenTech Hub – a Western Australian Innovation Hub that’s helping to solve global sustainability challenges through novel thinking, commercialisation and tech development.  Australia’s progress on the Paris Agreement [01:07] The critical minerals paradox [03:55] Economic disconnect in energy transition [09:22] Bargaining problems in mineral supply [12:19] GreenTech Hub innovations [16:08] Business imperatives for going green [20:42] Economic viability of clean energy [24:13] Generational change [36:16] Learn more GreenTech Hub Connect with our guests Jason McFarlane Jason is the inaugural Director of the Western Australian GreenTech Hub. He’s an economic strategist with a strong understanding of green technology trends and the practical realities of commercialisation.  Desire Runganga Desire is an engineer with postgraduate degrees in mining, economics, and law. He’s currently completing his PhD at the Curtin Institute for Energy Transition, focusing on global collaboration in securing critical minerals.  Join Curtin University This podcast is brought to you by Curtin University. Curtin is a global university known for its commitment to making positive change happen through high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and practical teaching. Work with us Study a research degree Start postgraduate education Interested in energy? Explore these courses: Master of Science (Minerals and Energy Economics) Master of Environment and Climate Emergency Got any questions or suggestions? Email thefutureof@curtin.edu.au Transcript Read the transcript: https://thefutureof.simplecast.com/episodes/energy/transcript Behind the scenes Hosts: David Karsten and Celeste Fourie Writer: Zoe Taylor Producer: Emilia Jolakoska Executive Producer: Natasha Weeks First Nations Acknowledgement Curtin University acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the First Peoples of this place we call Australia, and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future. Curtin University supports academic freedom of speech. The views expressed in The Future Of podcast may not reflect those of Curtin University.

    41 min
  3. Climate Anxiety: agency, community and action

    10 MAR

    Climate Anxiety: agency, community and action

    How can we turn climate anxiety into meaningful action and hope for the future? In this episode, David Karsten is joined by Associate Professor Jayne Bryant, Director of the Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute, to discuss climate anxiety, sustainability leadership and how people can move from fear to meaningful action. A journey from music to sustainability [00:58] Discovering climate anxiety [03:24] Why climate anxiety is growing [07:24] Sustainability and generational equity [10:57] Empowering people to drive change [15:31] Finding purpose through “active hope” [18:33] Lessons from Scandinavian sustainability [23:27] Learn more Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute Professor Peter Newman Connect with our guests Associate Professor Jayne Bryant Director, Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute Associate Professor Jayne Bryant’s career in teaching, research and practice has focused on building the sustainability leadership capability of those around her. Jayne has spent close to a decade living, working, teaching and researching in Sweden and is keen to share this unique experience in strategic sustainability, transformational leadership and a systems approach to creating change for more just and sustainable futures. Curtin staff page Join Curtin University This podcast is brought to you by Curtin University. Curtin is a global university known for its commitment to making positive change happen through high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and practical teaching. Work with us Study a research degree Start postgraduate education If you liked this episode, explore the possibilities of a Master or Graduate Certificate in Environment and Climate Emergency. Got any questions, or suggestions for future topics? Email thefutureof@curtin.edu.au Social media X Facebook Instagram YouTube LinkedIn Transcript Read the transcript Behind the scenes Host: David Karsten Content creator: Caitlin Crowley Producer: Emilia Jolakoska Executive Producers: Anita Shore and Natasha Weeks First Nations Acknowledgement Curtin University acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the First Peoples of this place we call Australia, and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future. Curtin University supports academic freedom of speech. The views expressed in The Future Of podcast may not reflect those of Curtin University.

    30 min
  4. Four-day Work Week: flexibility, productivity and adoption

    24 FEB

    Four-day Work Week: flexibility, productivity and adoption

    The four-day work week sounds ideal, but is it realistic for all of us?  Seven decades ago, Australia moved from working six days a week to five. Many of us now think it’s time for an update, with the idea of a four-day work week gaining traction around the word.  A shorter work week has been shown to boost productivity and mental health, but critics argue it’s a 'white-collar fantasy' that’s unrealistic for many industries. Our host David Karsten is joined by Professor Julia Richardson to explore the pros and cons of a shorter work week, and how likely it is to be implemented in your workplace.  Clarifying the four-day concept [01:09]Increased efficiency [03.31]An identity beyond work [06:21]Long term sustainability concerns [08:41]Expectations and performance [12:12]Interpersonal over AI [20:18]Learn moreFrom the great resignation to the four-day work week (2024)Connect with our guestsProfessor Julia Richardson Professor Julia Richardson is the Head of the School of Management and Marketing at Curtin University and a recognised expert in careers and human resources management.  She has enjoyed a global career in the UK, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, New Zealand and Canada, and has won multiple awards for her research and teaching. Julia’s current research focuses on the future of careers, career sustainability, and work-life balance. Join Curtin UniversityThis podcast is brought to you by Curtin University. Curtin is a global university known for its commitment to making positive change happen through high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and practical teaching. Work with usStudy a research degreeStart postgraduate educationGot any questions, or suggestions for future topics?Email thefutureof@curtin.edu.au Social mediaXFacebookInstagramYouTubeLinkedInTranscriptRead the transcript. Behind the scenesHosts: David Karsten and Celeste Fourie Writer:Zoe Taylor Producer:Emilia Jolakoska Executive producer: Natasha Weeks First Nations AcknowledgementCurtin University acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the First Peoples of this place we call Australia, and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future. Curtin University supports academic freedom of speech. The views expressed in The Future Of podcast may not reflect those of Curtin University.

    26 min
  5. Human–AI Decision-Making: trust, agency and context engineering

    10 FEB

    Human–AI Decision-Making: trust, agency and context engineering

    You make your own decisions – right? AI is already shaping everyday choices and purchases – most often in ways we barely notice. In this episode, David and Celeste are joined by Professor Billy Sung to explore how AI influences everyday consumer decisions, what drives trust, and how humans can stay in the loop as AI becomes more embedded. What “AI” actually means (beyond ChatGPT) [01:07]How AI is already shaping consumer decisions through ads, search and recommendation systems [03:27]What happens when AI search starts serving ads [04:13]The three drivers of trust in AI [08:51]Disclosure is a double-edged sword [11:54]Why people bond with AI influencers: anthropomorphism and parasocial relationships [16:15]The likely future: co-created decisions and “shared agency” [31:17]Learn moreThe Professor Insight PodcastYou make decisions freely? Neuromarketing says think againHow much can we trust AI? Podcast insightsConnect with our guestsBilly Sung, Professor, School of Management and Marketing Professor Billy Sung is a researcher and professor at Curtin University, specialising in neuromarketing, consumer psychology and human–AI interaction. He leads Curtin’s Consumer Research Lab, bringing together behavioural science and emerging technologies to inform industry and policy decision-making. Curtin staff pageJoin Curtin UniversityThis podcast is brought to you by Curtin University. Curtin is a global university known for its commitment to making positive change happen through high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and practical teaching. Work with usStudy a research degreeStart postgraduate educationIf you liked this episode, why not explore our Master of Artificial Intelligence. Got any questions or suggestions for future topics?Email thefutureof@curtin.edu.au Social mediaXFacebookInstagramYouTubeLinkedInTranscriptRead the transcript Behind the scenesHost: Celeste Fourie and David Karsten Content creator and recordist: Caitlin Crowley Producer: Emilia Jolakoska Executive Producers: Anita Shore and Natasha Weeks First Nations AcknowledgementCurtin University acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the First Peoples of this place we call Australia, and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future. Curtin University supports academic freedom of speech. The views expressed in The Future Of podcast may not reflect those of Curtin University.

    42 min
  6. Smart cities: urban efficiency, surveillance and data

    27 JAN

    Smart cities: urban efficiency, surveillance and data

    From helping elderly people to cross the road to finding a free parking space, technology is helping to make our cities become safer and more enjoyable. But at what cost to our privacy? In this episode, David and Celeste are joined by Dr Courtney Babb, a senior lecturer in urban and regional planning at Curtin University. They explore the benefits of integrating technology in urban areas, such as efficiency, security and quality, but also look at the implications, including surveillance and privatisation.  Songdo: the rise of the smart city [02:00]Data in urban efficiency [03:15]Who’s using your data, really? [09.30]Technology doesn’t always mean better [12:00]Future directions in urban planning [22:00]Being smarter with your data [29:00]Learn moreWharf Street BasinNew frontiers in sustainable innovationPerth is more smart city than meets the eyeThe Future of Sustainable ArchitectureConnect with our guestsCourtney Babb Courtney Babb is a senior lecturer in urban and regional planning at the School of Design and the Built Environment (DBE), at Curtin University. His research interests include institutional change and design in spatial planning; transport institutions and the politics of resisting auto-mobility; transitions to low energy transport systems; and integrated planning and management of riverine environments. Join Curtin UniversityThis podcast is brought to you by Curtin University. Curtin is a global university known for its commitment to making positive change happen through high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and practical teaching. Start postgraduate educationStudy a research degreeWork with usGot any questions, or suggestions for future topics?Email thefutureof@curtin.edu.au Social mediaXFacebookInstagramYouTubeLinkedInTranscriptRead the transcript.  Behind the scenesHosts: David Karsten and Celeste Fourie Producer: Emilia Jolakoska Writer: Zoe Taylor Executive producer: Natasha Weeks First Nations AcknowledgementCurtin University acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the First Peoples of this place we call Australia, and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future. Curtin University supports academic freedom of speech. The views expressed in The Future Of podcast may not reflect those of Curtin University.

    32 min
  7. AI in Education: tutors, learning models and integrity

    13 JAN

    AI in Education: tutors, learning models and integrity

    Nearly 80% of Australian students are already using generative AI – but should they be? In this episode, Celeste Fourie and David Karsten are joined by Alex Jenkins, Director of the WA Data Science Innovation Hub to discuss the future of artificial intelligence in education.  From AI-powered tutoring to the risks of cognitive offloading, this episode examines how students and educators can collaborate with AI while preserving critical thinking. From neural networks to ChatGPT: how generative AI became mainstream [01:14]AI in classrooms: mastery learning and AI tutoring [04:53]Assessments, skill building and academic integrity in tertiary education [12:00]The danger of cognitive offloading [14:41]AI risks, ethics and equity gaps [21:31]How students and educators can use AI responsibly [27:48]Learn moreAI’s impact on education in Australia: podcast insightsAn (AI) tutor for every student TEDxAssessment 2030Connect with our guestsAlex Jenkins, Director of the WA Data Science Innovation Hub Alex is an artificial intelligence specialist and experienced technology leader. He has more than 15 years of experience working in the technology space where he implements and advocates for analytics, data science and artificial intelligence solutions.  Connect with Alex. Join Curtin UniversityThis podcast is brought to you by Curtin University. Curtin is a global university known for its commitment to making positive change happen through high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and practical teaching. Work with usStudy a research degreeStart postgraduate educationIf you liked this episode, why not explore our Master of Artificial Intelligence or one-year Graduate Diploma in Education. Got any questions, or suggestions for future topics?Email thefutureof@curtin.edu.au Social mediaXFacebookInstagramYouTubeLinkedInTranscriptRead the transcript. Behind the scenesHosts: Celeste Fourie and David Karsten Content Creator and recordist: Caitlin Crowley Producer: Emilia Jolakoska Executive Producers: Anita Shore and Natasha Weeks First Nations AcknowledgementCurtin University acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the First Peoples of this place we call Australia, and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future. Curtin University supports academic freedom of speech. The views expressed in The Future Of podcast may not reflect those of Curtin University.

    38 min
  8. Speech: stuttering, genetics and intervention

    09/12/2025

    Speech: stuttering, genetics and intervention

    What causes some people to stutter? It's often believed that trauma or anxiety is the cause, but world-first research has found a genetic link to stuttering, allowing for life-changing early intervention. Our host David Karsten is joined by Professor Janet Beilby, an internationally renowned stuttering expert and Director of the Curtin Stuttering Treatment Clinic (CSTC). They discuss how Beilby and her colleagues have pinpointed the genes associated with stuttering, meaning intervention can happen much sooner, which is crucial for managing the condition.  David and Janet also talk about the the impact stuttering can have on a person's life, and how the CSTC helps to manage stuttering and other fluency disorders in children, adults and the elderly.  What is stuttering? [01:16]Challenges faced by people who stutter [05:52]The genetic link to stuttering [11:05]‘Genes aren’t destiny’ [19:27]Fostering resilience in kids [29:44]Acceptance and Commitment Therapy [31:00]Future directions in speech science [40:03]Learn moreCurtin Stuttering ClinicLife-changing genetic link offers hope for millions who stutterInternational Stuttering ProjectLarge-scale genome-wide analyses of stuttering (Nature Genetics)Connect with our guestsProfessor Janet Beilby Janet is a leading speech pathology clinician, researcher, educator and director of the Curtin Stuttering Treatment Clinic (CSTC). In July this year, Janet co-published world-first research in Nature Genetics that pinpointed the genetic markers for stuttering.  As director of CSTC, Janet has translated research into life-changing outcomes for over 10,000 clients, trained hundreds of students and been awarded over half a million dollars in research funds to investigate aspects of stuttering disorders, as well as dementia and virtual education. Join Curtin UniversityThis podcast is brought to you by Curtin University. Curtin is a global university known for its commitment to making positive change happen through high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and practical teaching. Work with usStudy a research degreeStart postgraduate educationGot any questions, or suggestions for future topics?Email thefutureof@curtin.edu.au Social mediaXFacebookInstagramYouTubeLinkedInTranscriptRead the transcript: https://thefutureof.simplecast.com/episodes/speech/transcript Behind the scenesHost: David Karsten Producer: Emilia Jolakoska Content writer: Zoe Taylor Executive producer: Natasha Weeks First Nations AcknowledgementCurtin University acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the First Peoples of this place we call Australia, and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future. Curtin University supports academic freedom of speech. The views expressed in The Future Of podcast may not reflect those of Curtin University.

    42 min
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4.7
out of 5
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About

The podcast where experts share their vision of the future and how their work is helping shape it for the better. Powered by Curtin University.

Information

  • Creator
    Curtin University
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    148
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Curtin University
  • Show Website
    The Future Of