Panel Discussions

The business of changing the world

Socially aware businesses have an incredible impact on society as they tackle environmental and social issues, in addition to providing employment and making a profit.

They exist to benefit themselves, their customers, their social cause, and the economy, but what does it look like for a business to be socially aware in practical terms?

The ANZAC Spirit is Inspiring Aussies to Soldier On!

The importance of ANZAC Day is one of the few days in our national calendar that all Australians can agree on.  It’s a day when we reflect on the sacrifices of those who paved the way for the freedoms that we enjoy, and celebrate their legacy.

Is Easter still significant in Australia?

Australia is home to many cultures, so the way we celebrate and think about Easter continues to develop and change as well. For some, Easter is at the centre of their faith, and for others, it’s a rare opportunity to relax over a long weekend. 

Business serving more than the financial bottom line

While every business wants to serve the basic function of creating profit to at least sustain itself, the true success of today’s modern businesses are increasingly being measured by something much more meaningful – their purpose and achievement of positive impact.

Enabling young people to thrive

Children and young people today have greater access to information and resources than any other generation in history. However, in young hands and minds, rather than being helpful, sometimes this ease of access is a barrage of ideas, opinions and perspectives that ultimately have a negative affect on wellbeing. It leads those of us who care for and support young people to continue to ask the question: How can we enable young people to thrive? 

What does it mean to live with purpose?

Purpose is a fundamental factor of happiness. Many people, at different stages of life, ask, What is my purpose? Although this often-daunting question may have no clear answer, it’s one that has wonderful potential to inspire growth, meaning and contentment. 

Keys to living an impactful life

We all know someone who is living an impactful life. For panellists, Darren Thomas, Raewyn Elsegood and Keith Garner, who join host, Laura Bennett, on this episode of Helping Hands, living an impactful life has evolved gradually through a series of choices, often in response to their realisation that they can be the answer to a present need. 

Equipping parents to start the new school year well

The greatest desire for any parent of school-aged kids at this time of year is for their children to start the school year confident and happy. But have you considered how your own ability to start the school year well might impact your children’s success? 

Love Your Neighbour

Brett Ryan, Davyn de Bruyn and Michael Duckett join host Laura Bennett to discuss loving your neighbour. What does it mean to love your neighbour? What does this concept look like when seen through the lens of our family contexts, cultural backgrounds or heritage?

Heroes and Role Models

Collett Smart, Nathan Brewer and Nathaniel Marsh join panel host, Laura Bennett, to discuss heroes and role models. What makes a hero or role model? Should they possess certain qualities? Are there potential pitfalls if someone puts us on a pedestal as their hero or role model?

Overcoming adversity

Collett Smart, Justine Whitchurch and Rev. Keith Garner join panel host, Laura Bennett, to discuss overcoming adversity. Is it easy to recognise adversity? Is adversity something we can expect to conquer on our own?

Caring for ageing parents

Ian Barnett, Jenny Blok and Michael Duckett join host Laura Bennett to talk about caring for ageing parents. What do ageing parents struggle with most as they transition from being carers to needing care? Do parents ever stop caring for their children? Or do the ways they show care change and adapt over time?

New Year Resolutions

Collett Smart, Brett Ryan and Davyn de Bruyn join host Laura Bennett to discuss new year resolutions. Why do we make them? Are they worthwhile? What does it take to make a new year resolution stick? Is self-discipline or support from others important when it comes to changing habits and achieving our goals?

Leisure vs. Work

Collett Smart, Meg McClintock and Rod Braine join host Laura Bennett to discuss leisure vs. work. It's almost the end of the year and most of us are just days away from some well-earned time away from work, school and study. Are times of rest important to our wellbeing? What are the mental and physical benefits of finding the right balance between work and play? Is there a formula to resting well?

Presents vs. Presence

Davyn de Bruyn, Collett Smart and Brett Ryan join host Laura Bennett to discuss presents versus presence. As the Christmas season rushes at us and we rush into it, why do we put pressure on ourselves to buy perfect presents? Is there such a thing? Does time spent with people do more for our emotional and social wellbeing than receiving gifts? What else can make our experience of a special event like Christmas memorable and meaningful?