Planning XChange
Planning Xchange is an interview series of built environment professionals doing interesting work beyond the ordinary. Guests include town planners, architects, urban designers, landscape architects, academics, historians, CEO's (and much much more!). Featuring podcast hosts Jess Noonan and Peter Jewell.
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PlanningxChange 133: Five Decades in City Planning: A Conversation with Peter O’Leary
07/26/2025
PlanningxChange 133: Five Decades in City Planning: A Conversation with Peter O’Leary
In this episode of PlanningXchange, we speak with Peter O’Leary, whose planning career spans an impressive five decades. Peter began his journey in the mid-1970s as a cadet in local government, rising through the ranks to senior management. He later moved into the private sector before serving over 11 years as a Tribunal Member at VCAT, where he presided over a broad range of planning matters. Following his time on the bench, Peter returned to consultancy, specialising in mediation and dispute resolution. We explore each phase of his remarkable career, drawing on his insights into what makes an effective advocate, a fair and capable decision-maker, and a resilient professional. Peter offers thoughtful guidance for planners at every stage—whether just starting out, navigating mid-career, or reflecting on a lifetime of service. Few reach the milestone of 50 years in the profession—fewer still with such breadth of experience. This is a generous and candid conversation with a true planner’s planner. In Culture Corner / Podcast Extra: Peter recommends The Incredible Life of Hubert Wilkins: Australia’s Greatest Explorer – – and the documentary Maya and the Wave – . Jess suggests attending professional conferences for inspiration and renewal. Pete offers a couple of classic comforts: hot water bottles on cold nights and the contemplative beauty of Evensong at Church. Podcast released 26 July 2025
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PlanningxChange 132: How AI Is Transforming City Planning - with Scott Matheson
06/26/2025
PlanningxChange 132: How AI Is Transforming City Planning - with Scott Matheson
In this episode of PlanningXchange, we speak with Scott Matheson, Head of Planning at MyLot, an Australian AI technology company focused on simplifying the planning process for councils and communities. With a background in statutory planning across local government, consultancies, and the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, Scott brings both practical experience and a forward-thinking approach to the role of technology in urban planning. We explore Scott’s journey from traditional regulatory planning into the dynamic world of AI, discussing how MyLot is transforming development assessments with automated tools and data-driven insights. Scott shares examples of how AI can enhance transparency, reduce processing times, and better engage citizens—while still respecting the role of professional judgment and community context. We also discuss the broader implications of AI on the planning profession, potential ethical concerns, broader strategic analysis, impacts on employment and how planners can position themselves to work with emerging technologies rather than against them.In Culture Corner / Podcast Extra, Scott shares a light-hearted story about using AI to open up relationship discussions. Jess recommends the Netflix documentary Titan: The OceanGate Submersible Disaster, which examines the events leading up to the 2023 implosion of the Titan submersible during a deep-sea expedition to the Titanic wreck site. Pete recommends investing in a pair of Stihl chainsaw chaps for serious chainsaw safety. Podcast released 26 June 2025
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PlanningxChange 131: Alfonso Morales + Edna Ely-Ledesma: Public Markets
05/26/2025
PlanningxChange 131: Alfonso Morales + Edna Ely-Ledesma: Public Markets
In this episode of PlanningXchange, we speak with Professor Alfonso Morales and Edna Ely-Ledesma of the University of Wisconsin-Madson about the unique and often overlooked role of public markets in shaping vibrant, inclusive urban environments. Drawing on their research and on-the-ground experience, they share insights into how markets serve not just as commercial spaces, but as critical infrastructure for food access, social connection, and local economic resilience. We explore the history and diversity of market types across different regions, the policy frameworks that support or hinder their success, and the role markets play in community-building and placemaking. Alfonso and Edna also discuss the innovative Farm 2 Facts toolkit—a software platform they developed to help market managers collect, analyze, and visualize data on their operations. This decision-support tool empowers cities and market operators to better understand food distribution, ecosystem services, and community impact in real time . For more information and to explore the toolkit, visit farm2facts.org In Podcast Extra, Alfonso recommends ‘The Cadfael Chronicles’ . Edna recommends ‘Conclave’ the film Jess recommends ‘Alone Australia’ . Pete recommends ‘Bullet Train Explosion’ Podcast episode released 26 May 2025.
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PlanningxChange 130 - Inside the Mind of a Developer: A Conversation with Max Shifman
04/25/2025
PlanningxChange 130 - Inside the Mind of a Developer: A Conversation with Max Shifman
In PX130 our guest is Max Shifman, Chief Executive Officer of Intrapac Property, one of Australia's most respected private developers. Max brings a wealth of experience to the discussion, having worked across master-planned communities, regional housing projects, and complex urban redevelopments mainly along Australia’s eastern seaboard. His background in engineering and law, combined with hands-on experience in the development sector, gives him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today. In this episode, we explore what motivates developers, how public misconceptions impact the industry, the growing burden of red and green tape, and how political and media narratives shape outcomes on the ground. Max shares candid insights into the development process, the importance of long-term thinking, and the need for a more collaborative approach between planners, developers, and regulators. We also discuss innovation, housing affordability, the tension between idealism and pragmatism in city-making, and why Australia needs to rediscover its ambition for building new cities. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner: Max recommends the Netflix series Drive to Survive https://www.netflix.com/au/title/80204890, a behind-the-scenes look at the world of Formula One racing. Cam reflects on the power and abundance of Australia's natural coastal landscapes. Pete recommends the play , a landmark 1913 Russian Futurist work that pushed the boundaries of theatre and art. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victory_over_the_Sun Episode PX130 was released on 26 April 2025.
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PlanningxChange 129: Charter Cities in the Developing World with Jeffrey Mason
03/30/2025
PlanningxChange 129: Charter Cities in the Developing World with Jeffrey Mason
In PX129 our guest is Jeffrey Mason of the Charter Cities Institute. Jeffrey joined CCI as a Researcher in 2019. His research interests include urban economics, structural transformation, special economic zones, and technology ecosystems. He has worked on policy advisory projects in Nigeria, Tanzania, Zambia, and Honduras, among other countries. Prior to joining the Charter Cities Institute, Jeffrey worked as an MA Fellow at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. He holds a BA in economics from the University of Maryland and an MA in economics from George Mason University. His writing has been featured in publications including City Journal, Works in Progress, Investment Monitor, Quartz Africa, and The American Mind. The Charter Cities Institute is a nonprofit dedicated to creating the ecosystem for charter cities, founded on the idea that a fresh approach was necessary to tackle humanity’s most pressing challenges, such as global poverty, climate change and rapid urbanisation. CCI believe charter cities—new cities granted a special jurisdiction to create a new governance system—are that solution. By improving governance through deep regulatory and administrative reforms, charter cities can help accelerate economic growth in developing countries and lift tens of millions of people out of poverty. Details at In podcast extra / culture corner, Jeff recommends the book ‘Outsourcing Empire: How Company-States Made the Modern World' by Andrew Phillips and JC Sharman Jess recommends the TV series Ted Lasso Pete recommends the book ‘The Diaries of Fred Williams 1963 - 1970’ Episode PX129 was released on 31 March 2025.
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PlanningxChange 128: Emergent Tokyo: Designing the Spontaneous City (author Jorge Almazan)
03/02/2025
PlanningxChange 128: Emergent Tokyo: Designing the Spontaneous City (author Jorge Almazan)
In PX128 our guest is architect and author Jorge Almazan. Jorge is a Tokyo-based architect and associate professor at Keio University. He holds a degree in architecture from the Polytechnic University of Madrid and a PhD from the Tokyo Institute of Technology. His practice focuses on ecologically responsible and socially inclusive design, ranging from urban to interior projects. His built work has earned significant recognition in Japan, including the Ota City Urban Landscape First Prize (2019) and selections by the Japan Institute of Architects (2018, 2022) and the Architectural Institute of Japan (2023). Almazán's research on Tokyo has been published in numerous academic journals, and his book, Emergent Tokyo: Designing the Spontaneous City (Oro Editions, 2021), was a finalist for the 2023 Pattis Family Foundation Global Cities Book Award. ‘Emergent Tokyo: Designing the Spontaneous City’ was mentioned in a recent article in the Wall Street Journal about visiting Tokyo on a budget, using the book as a guide In podcast extra / culture corner, Jorge recommends two Netflix programs that feature Tokyo. These are ‘Midnight Diner’ and ’Tokyo Swindlers’ . Jess recommends getting back into tennis as she returns to the court. Pete recommends the ‘New Books’ podcast series . Episode PX128 was released on 3 March 2025.
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PlanningxChange 127: Derham Groves - Sherlock Holmes and good City Making etc
02/10/2025
PlanningxChange 127: Derham Groves - Sherlock Holmes and good City Making etc
In PX127 our guest is architect, former academic and author Dr Derham Groves. He studied architecture at Deakin University and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and art history at the University of Minnesota. He taught architecture at RMIT from 1985 to 1997 and the University of Melbourne from 1999 to 2019 and was a Senior Fellow in the Faculty of Architecture, Building, and Planning at the University of Melbourne from 2020 to 2024. Derham is the author of many articles and books about popular culture, architecture, and design, including, Feng-Shui and Western Building Ceremonies (1991), You Bastard Moriarty (1996), Mail Art: The D-I-Y Letterbox from Workshop to Gatepost (1998), TV Houses: Television’s Influence On the Australian Home (2004), Mask: Pro Hart’s Frankenstein Monsters (2006), There’s No Place Like Holmes: Exploring Sense of Place Through Crime Fiction (2008), Victims and Villains: Barbie and Ken Meet Sherlock Holmes (2009), Anna May Wong’s Lucky Shoes: 1939 Australia Through the Eyes of an Art Deco Diva (2011), Out of the Ordinary: Popular Art, Architecture and Design (2012), Hopalong Cassidy: A Horse Opera (2017), Monkeemania in Australia: Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of The Monkees’ Australian Tour in 1968 (2019), Arthur Purnell’s “Forgotten” Architecture: Canton and Cars (2020), Sherlock in the Seventies: A Wild Decade of Sherlock Holmes Films (2021), Australian Westerns in the Fifties: Kangaroo, Hopalong Cassidy on Tour, and Whiplash (2022), and Homicide on Hydra: George Johnston’s Crime Novels (2023). His latest book, Walt Disney’s Forgotten Australia: From Mickey’s Kangaroo to Outback At Ya! has been released in February 2025. Derham agrees with the Austrian architect Hans Hollein that ‘Everything is architecture,’ and the American designer Charles Eames who said, ‘Eventually everything connects—people, ideas, objects.’ Episode released 10 February 2025.
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PlanningxChange 126: Key to the City - How Zoning Shapes Our World: Sara Bronin
01/19/2025
PlanningxChange 126: Key to the City - How Zoning Shapes Our World: Sara Bronin
Our guest is Sara Bronin a Mexican-American architect and attorney whose interdisciplinary research focuses on how law and policy can foster more equitable, sustainable, well-designed, and connected places. She is the author of , and she founded and directs the , which aims to digitize, demystify, and democratize information about zoning in the United States. She has advised the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Sustainable Development Code, has served on the board of Latinos in Heritage Conservation, and founded Desegregate Connecticut. Previously, she led the award-winning, unanimously adopted overhaul of the zoning code and city plan of Hartford, Connecticut. Bronin holds a juris doctor from Yale Law School, a master of science from the University of Oxford (Rhodes Scholar), as well as a B.Arch. and B.A. from the University of Texas–Austin. In podcast extra / culture corner Sara recommends ‘Climate Change and Historic Preservation ‘ (Sept 2024) . Jess recommends the Martha Stewart documentary on Netflix () and Pete recommends two books and making omelettes. Episode released 19 January 2025.
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PlanningxChange Episode 125 - PX turns 10, reflections and an Ai Review
12/27/2024
PlanningxChange Episode 125 - PX turns 10, reflections and an Ai Review
In this episode, Jess and Pete reflect on the tenth anniversary of the PlanningxChange podcast. This discussion occurs before an Ai review of the planningxchange podcast series. A rather indulgent episode to mark the anniversary! For podcast extra / culture corner, Jess recommends making pizzas at home with the family. Her New Year resolution is to have more interesting podcast extra recommendations. Pete recommends doing background research about books you like. He also discusses film locations and the potential for cultural tourism. On YouTube there are various films about film locations. The film Pete mentions is Mad Max. There are now transcripts for the episodes. These will progressively be included for previous editions. The transcripts generally reflect what is said in the episode (they are altered to improve grammar etc). Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released on 27 December 2024.
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PlanningxChange 124: Public Toilets with Katherine Webber
12/07/2024
PlanningxChange 124: Public Toilets with Katherine Webber
Katherine is a social planning practitioner with over 14 years’ experience working for a range of government and non-government organisations in Australia and the Pacific. Katherine has considerable experience in developing and implementing community plans, programs and policy to improve social inclusion and participation. Katherine was awarded the 2018 Rodney Warmington Churchill Fellowship to increase inclusion and accessibility in public toilets by researching taboos, design, policy and legal barriers. The Churchill Fellowship consolidated previous work with planners, institutions and community members identifying public toilets as essential to support the participation of a wide section of our communities. Photos of many toilets Katherine has visited are documented via Instagram Katherine appears on Youtube talking about her work. Discussion mentions the film ‘Perfect Days’ which is set amongst Tokyo’s public ‘art’ toilets (). Mention is also made about Singapores ‘Happy Toilet Program’ () For podcast extra / culture corner, Katherine recommendations ‘Birnam Wood’ by Eleanor Catton . She also recommends the ‘Public Toilet’ app. Jess recommends outsourcing at home in times of stress relying upon the ‘diner lady’. Pete recommends the ‘Transit maps’ app, and secondly, YouTube Premium. Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released on 7 December 2024.
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PlanningxChange 123: Build Baby Build, with author Bryan Caplan
11/12/2024
PlanningxChange 123: Build Baby Build, with author Bryan Caplan
In PX123 our guest is Bryan Caplan. Bryan is Professor of Economics at George Mason University and a New York Times Bestselling author. We interview him about his ground breaking graphic novel ‘Build, Baby, Build - The Science and Ethics of Housing Regulation’. The book is so described: 'In Build, Baby, Build: The Science and Ethics of Housing Regulation, economist Bryan Caplan makes the economic and philosophical case for radical deregulation of this massive market―freeing property owners to build as tall and dense as they wish. Not only would the average price of housing be cut in half, but the building boom unleashed by deregulation would simultaneously reduce inequality, increase social mobility, promote economic growth, reduce homelessness, increase birth rates, help the environment, cut crime, and more. Combining stunning homage to classic animation with careful interdisciplinary research, Build, Baby, Build takes readers on a grand tour of a bona fide “panacea policy.” We can start realizing these missed opportunities as soon as we abandon the widespread misconception that housing regulation solves more problems than it causes.’ The book is a must read for planning undergraduates and all policy makers involved in the housing sector. Other books he has written include The Myth of the Rational Voter, named "the best political book of the year" by the New York Times, Selfish Reasons to Have More Kids, The Case Against Education, Open Borders (co-authored with SMBC's Zach Weinersmith), Labor Econ Versus the World, How Evil Are Politicians?, Don't Be a Feminist, Voters As Mad Scientists, You Will Not Stampede Me, and Self-Help Is Like a Vaccine. He is now writing Unbeatable: The Brutally Honest Case for Free Markets. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner Bryan recommends ‘The problem with political authority’ by Michael Huemer (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Problem_of_Political_Authority). He also recommends the Youtube series 'Ride with Gabi' https://www.youtube.com/@ridewithgabi Jess has gone back to duolingo, learning Italian (https://www.duolingo.com). Pete recommends the Netflix K Rom - com ‘Business Proposal’. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business_Proposal) Audio produced by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 12 November 2024.
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PlanningxChange 122: Rafael Mangual - Crime + City Planning
10/22/2024
PlanningxChange 122: Rafael Mangual - Crime + City Planning
In PX122 our guest is Rafael Mangual a distinguished writer and researcher on crime issues in cities and regions. He is the Nick Ohnell Fellow at the Manhattan Institute (MI), a contributing editor of City Journal, and a member of the . His first book, , was released in July 2022. He has authored and coauthored a number of MI reports and op-eds on issues ranging from urban crime and jail violence to broader matters of criminal and civil justice reform. His work has been featured and mentioned in a wide array of publications, including the , The Atlantic, , , , and . He regularly appears on TV and radio. In a wide ranging interview, Rafael explains various criminology theories about urban environments and how design measures can reduce crime. He talks about how crime reduces urban amenity, the consequences for the most disadvantaged and if unchecked how lax civic and legislative standards create a doom loop. Rafael presents an inspiring and well thought out approach to addressing a very serious urban issue that rarely receives any attention in urban planning circles. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner Rafael recommends fitness accounts and trackers. Jess recommends attending professional conferences. Pete recommends ‘The Passage of the Damned’ by Elsbeth Hardie . Audio produced by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 23 October 2024.
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PlanningxChange 121: Calvin Po - new ways of thinking and doing
09/10/2024
PlanningxChange 121: Calvin Po - new ways of thinking and doing
In PX121 our guest is Calvin Po (). Calvin Po is a strategic designer at Dark Matter Labs, co-leading the Radicle Civics portfolio, where he explores institutional and governance systems as sites of design. He has led projects with the Scottish Government’s Land Commission on land governance reform, the Taiwanese Government on decentralised web3 civic infrastructure, and is developing multi-actor governance approaches for river ecosystems, and in FreeHouse, a commons housing model based on ‘self-owning’ houses. At the Architectural Association School of Architecture, Calvin is a unit master of Diploma 9, ‘Universal Free Housing’, focusing on strategic, policy, and economic pathways for realising housing as a universal human right. He studied architecture at UCL Bartlett, where he graduated top of class as a RIBA Donaldson Medallist, and he was a scholar at the AA, where his Diploma thesis won the Dennis Sharp Prize and was a finalist for RIBA President's Awards for Research 2021. Calvin is also a writer, publishing most regularly as an architecture critic for The Spectator magazine. His research interests and writing include topics on land, territory, and its political systems. In podcast extra / culture corner, Calvin Po recommends the movie Tar directed by Todd Field (); Jess recommends the Netflix program ‘Red Eye’ and Pete recommends ‘War Gamers’ and Audio produced by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 11 September 2024.
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PlanningxChange 120: Innovative planning and university programs in Japan (Tokyo U)
08/09/2024
PlanningxChange 120: Innovative planning and university programs in Japan (Tokyo U)
In PX120 our guest is Assistant Professor Akane Bessho, Ph.D of the Housing and Urban Analysis Laboratory, Department of Engineering, The University of Tokyo. Information about Akane’s work is at and her website is: Akane has a wide range of research projects and in the field work including those that seek to reverse depopulation in Japan’s rural areas, assisting people with disabilities in the agricultural sector (see for example Coco Farm & Winery (), new approaches to food production and creating community gardens designed to aid those with dementia. Akane describes her faculty at the the Tokyo University and the excellent work it produces. The students are highly motivated and create highly innovative urban projects. Details at The interview discusses many issues confronting Japanese society. From this we can draw lessons that can be applied to other countries. An engaging and inspiring interview about new approaches to create better societal outcomes. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner, Akane has two recommendations, music by 'Ren' () and a book 'The Essence of Language: How Words Were Born and Evolved?' (by Mutsumi Imai & Kimi Akita): Jess has taken up tennis lessons and recommends this to listeners. Pete has two recommendations both Japanese related; The TV series 'Golden Kamuy' on Netflix and 'Design X Stories' a TV program on NHK () in particular ’Shared Living, Shared Spaces' () Audio produced by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 10 August 2024.
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PlanningxChange 119: Kylie Legge of Place Score
07/20/2024
PlanningxChange 119: Kylie Legge of Place Score
In PX119 our guests is Kylie Legge of Place Score (). Kylie is a leading voice in placemaking, an architecture graduate, planner, place maker, author, facilitator, curator and entrepreneur. She is founding Director of Place Partners, a multidisciplinary placemaking consultancy based in Sydney, Australia and – the world’s first place experience measurement company. An engaging interview about new methods to find out what citizens seek in their local area. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner, Kylie Legge recommends The National Gallery of Victoria ‘Triennial’, an exhibition featuring 120 artists with contemporary works (see ). Jess recommends Turning Point on Netflix () Pete recommends the ‘WSJ Free Expression Podcast episode - ‘Is Modern Technology Ruining Our Children’ which features Jonathan Haidt author of ‘The Anxious Generation’ - How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing and Epidemic of Mental Illness’. Details at - and he also recommends the Ford Ranger Youtube clip Audio produced by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 20 July 2024.
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PlanningxChange 118: YIMBY Melbourne: Build, Baby, Build
06/24/2024
PlanningxChange 118: YIMBY Melbourne: Build, Baby, Build
In PX118 our guests are Jonathan O’Brien and Jonathan Nolan of YIMBY Melbourne. Details of YIMBY Melbourne are at YIMBY Melbourne seeks a ‘People-led’ ‘Grassroots’ ‘For Housing Abundance.’ The YIMBY website states: ‘A better Melbourne is possible. A Melbourne that is affordable, liveable, and sustainable. A city that is walkable, accessible, and which gives everyone access to the amenity-rich areas that make living here so special. Creating housing abundance will take a lot of work. It will require reform across planning, governance, and taxation. It will force us to take a serious look at how we use, value, and control the use of land in this city. The two Jonathan’s outline the problems with the current planning system and how this leads to disadvantage, exclusion and a lack of new housing. They propose various measures that can redress the problems. They also call for volunteers to assist the cause. An engaging interview with dedicated activists who have created a new third party force in the housing / planning policy - public awareness space. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner, Jonathan Nolan recommends a website he has created () which looks at the population density of major cities in relation to distance from the CBD. Jonathan O’Brien recommends ‘Arbitary Lines: How Zoning Broke the American City and how to fix it’ by M Nolan Gray () He also recommends ‘The Boat’ by Nam Le () and Jess recommends a book ‘What happened to Nina’ by Dervla McTiernan () and a podcast ‘The Imperfect’ (). Pete recommends ‘Climate - the movie (the cold truth)’ at and the Radio Taiso (also spelt Rajio Taiso which translates to ‘radio exercises’) morning exercise program released by NHK - see YouTube Audio produced by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 24 June 2024.
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PlanningxChange 117: Rob Parker - Trilith - New Urbanism 2.0++
05/31/2024
PlanningxChange 117: Rob Parker - Trilith - New Urbanism 2.0++
In PX117 our guest is Rob Parker, President of Trilith Development, LLC. Rob oversees with a development team the continued growth of the Trilith Township and Film Studios. Trilith is located on the edge of Altana in Fayette County, Georgia. Trilith is in the advance guard of new urbanism practices. Details at https://www.trilith.com Trilith is a large masterplanned community which seeks to ‘redefine the modern American town’. Based on New Urbanism 2.0++ principles, the town has a vibrant commercial centre, multiple open space places and a diverse range of housing options. It is colocated adjacent the Trilith Film Studios. Rob describes the passions that drive the Trilith team and the concept of continuous improvement in the creation of new urban spaces. He discusses building for the long term and the high level of detail that goes into making first rate community projects. Trilith has many unique features. One of the surprising aspects is the popularity of the ‘Trilith Experience’, a tour of not only the film studios but also ‘the intrically designed new urbanist community of the The Town @ Trilth’. Rob reports that many visitors are excited and drawn to the new urbanism built form and layout. An engaging interview with a professional dedicated to creating better town life experiences. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner Rob recommends ‘Suburban Nation - The Rise of Sprawl and the Decline of the American Dream’ by Andres Duany, Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk and Jeff Speck and ‘Walkable City - How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time’ by Jeff Speck Rob also describes the value of travel and taking in new experiences that can lead to better solutions 'at home'. Jess recommends ‘Foul Play’ by Fiona McIntosh . Pete recommends ‘I Robot’ by Isaac Asimov . Audio produced by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 31 May 2024.
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PlanningxChange 116: Stephen Rowley - author, planning professional, academic and astute commentator.
05/02/2024
PlanningxChange 116: Stephen Rowley - author, planning professional, academic and astute commentator.
In PX116 our guest is Stephen Rowley. Stephen is the author of two books, ‘Movie Towns and Sitcom Suburbs: Building Hollywood’s Ideal Communities’ and ‘The Victorian Planning System: Practice, Problems and Prospects’. In February 2022 he was made of a Fellow of the Planning Institute of Australia, the citation included: ‘Over the first 20 years of his career Dr Stephen Rowley has made a very significant contribution to planning as an inspiring and passionate lecturer, through his publications, his engagement in planning debates, and his continued advocacy for planning reform. Stephen is one of the profession’s leading voices on the operation of the Victorian planning system. His critical insights into the structure of the VPPs and their intersection with planning practice are highly valued across the sector.’ An engaging interview with a planning profession who has given much to the profession and Australian cities. His observations can be applied broadly to planning systems around the globe. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner Stephen recommends the British comedy (satirical) program ‘The Thick of It’ (). Jess recommends Canva a graphic design software program. Pete has two recommendations. the movie ‘Godzilla Minus One’ () and the second, a British comedy program from the 1980’s ‘The Young Ones’ () that could never be made these days. Audio produced by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 2 May 2024.
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PlanningxChange 115: Liz Mackevicius, organisational coach
04/08/2024
PlanningxChange 115: Liz Mackevicius, organisational coach
In PX115 our guest is Liz Mackevicius. Liz is an urban planner who has taken a new role as an organisational coach for those in the built environment industry. She will be leading the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) program ‘Pathway to Lead’. Information about the program, and the link to register for the session is: . It’s for consultants across Australia. An accredited organisational coach, Liz has built a reputation of strong but supportive coaching. She values accountability, acknowledging this is what helps us translate aspirations into real breakthroughs. She has worked with a range of clients, building their confidence, resolve and satisfaction. Liz is also a trainer and facilitator with a passion and commitment to helping those who create our liveable cities be more effective and have rewarding work. She believes that the challenge and problem solving we experience at work should be part of a fulfilling life – but that we often need to do the work to create that for ourselves. Liz is also a public policy expert with nearly 20 years’ experience in urban planning, government advisory, strategy and policy development across a range of consulting and State and Local government roles. She understands the challenges of consulting, including balancing client demands with deep and creative thinking, leading people with different working and communication preferences, working with clients on tricky problems and developing strategies and policy in a constantly changing context. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner Liz recommends The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner Jess recommends Oppenheimer the movie () Pete recommends: Dragon Sakura TV series Netflix and ‘Modern Talking’ hear their song ‘Who will save the world’. or Audio produced by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 9 April 2024.
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PlanningxChange 114: Anna Lowder talks New Urbanism including Hampstead
03/21/2024
PlanningxChange 114: Anna Lowder talks New Urbanism including Hampstead
In PX114, our interview guest is Anna Lowder, a co-founder and director of , a New Urbanist community in Montgomery, Alabama, inspired by her experiences while living in London before returning to Montgomery. Established in 2008, the 416-acre master-planned residential and mixed-use development features homes, townhomes, condos, apartments, restaurants, shops, workspaces and a school, farm, and a lake. Anna helped Hampstead and Montgomery become the first neighborhood and largest city to adopt the SmartCode, an innovative zoning code that encourages diverse, mixed-use community for all ages and stages of life. She is a member of the National Town Builders Association and the Congress for the New Urbanism. Interview topics include, New Urbanism, Multigenerational Design, Designing for Sustainable Communities, SmartCode Adoption and Breaking Barriers with New Urbanism. In podcast extra / culture corner, Anna recommends ‘The Bear’ TV series https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bear_(TV_series) Jess recommends: ‘Wholesome by Sarah’, recipes and a new cookbook coming and Pete recommends local history books including ‘The Enigma of Snake Island’ by Rob Ganly Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 21 March 2024.
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PlanningxExchange 113: Air taxis (spinners) & Vertiports with Clem Newton-Brown
03/01/2024
PlanningxExchange 113: Air taxis (spinners) & Vertiports with Clem Newton-Brown
Episode PX113 is all about Advanced Aerial Mobility (AAM) aircraft, these are typically electric or hybrid powered, air taxis and the like. They have appeared in various science fiction films such as Blade Runner 2019 and Blade Runner 2049 (nicknamed ‘spinners’). They will soon be appearing above our cities and towns. Clem Newton-Brown our guest is CEO and founder of Skyportz (), the only Australian business developing a network of landing sites for a future air taxi network. Clem’s background as a former Deputy Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Member of Victorian Parliament and barrister specialising in planning and property development has put him at the forefront of this emerging industry. More details on Clem are found at . Clem serves on several Federal, State, industry and international committees advancing the development of the rules and regulations around establishing a whole new era in clean, green electric aviation. The success of the industry depends on these changes along with a network of Skyportz sites from which air taxis will operate. These are known as ‘vertiports’. We note some AAM's aircraft might have alternative power sources or run as hybrids. Skyportz has over 600 property partner sites in Australia and New Zealand which are ready to activate when regulations permit. A terrific interview subject with a great passion for new business concepts, cities and aviation. In podcast extra / culture corner, Clem recommends the great outdoors and getting away form technology (for a little bit). Jess recommends: Duolingo ‘Learning Italian’: Pete recommends: ‘A Rebel from the start - Setting the record straight’ by Avi Yemini Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 1 March 2024.
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PlanningxChange 112: Converting office buildings into residential with Jessica Lee of FK Architects
01/02/2024
PlanningxChange 112: Converting office buildings into residential with Jessica Lee of FK Architects
In PX112, our interview guest is Jessica Lee, a principal architect at Fender Katsalidis Architects (). Jessica discusses the ‘Alba’ project, the conversion of a 1970’s former office building into 150 rooms of age appropriate housing (retirement accommodation and aged care). The site is located within South Melbourne, an inner city suburb in Melbourne, Victoria Australia. The cost of the conversion was $125m (AU). Whilst not being significantly cheaper than a rebuild there were environmental savings according to Jessica. In the interview Jessica discusses the project from start to finish. There was the initial ‘whats the building like’, ‘’whats under the surfaces’, to scoping the logistics of conversions (very different from a vacant site), finding a suitable builder (not all high rise builders have the equipment or skill set to do this type of work), services upgrades and the intricate details of providing contemporary residential accommodation (along with the end user needs). Jessica indicates that a review of the Melbourne CBD found only 6% of sites are candidates for such conversions. Frequent killers of such projects are the depth of a site and the position of lift cores, the reasons being apartments need natural light unlike office buildings. Also the ‘bones’ of a structure building in terms of structure and floor to floor heights may not be suitable. Applying contemporary safety and environmental standards are also difficult to satisfy. The interview explores the design concept as well as the ’nuts and bolts’ and up close descriptions of the building project. At times it is like being on site mid project with hard hat, boots and vest. The conversion of office buildings to residential has been touted in many planning publications and strategies as a solution to various housing crisis. The interview reveals that such conversions are possible but not many sites are suitable and there are specialist requirements in undertaking the challenge. Jessica provides a clear eyed view of a not well understood issue. One insight from the interview is that blanket planning policies or government subsidies promoting such conversions at the expense of complete rebuilds may not be cost effective, environmentally benefical or practical. A terrific interview subject with a great passion for buildings, cities and life. In podcast extra / culture corner, Jessica recommends Rob Adams - Urban Choreography Central Melbourne 1985 - MUP Jess N recommends: Duolingo ‘Learning Italian’: Pete recommends: Break Point on Netflix ( and celebrates his sporting triumphs over 2023 Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 2 January 2024. Happy New Year to all our listeners.
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PlanningxChange 111: Jesse Suskin - Wing Aviation (drone delivery)
12/04/2023
PlanningxChange 111: Jesse Suskin - Wing Aviation (drone delivery)
In PX111, our interview guest is Jesse Suskin, Head of Government Relations & Public Policy at Wing Aviation (). We talk all things drone delivery particularly the experience learnt in Logan in Queensland, Australia where there has been extensive delivery operations over a lengthy time period. Wing Aviation is an offshoot of Google’s parent company Alphabet Inc. Jesse Suskin is the head of government relations and public policy in Australia for Wing, a company that sees a future where drone delivery is the safest, fastest and most environmentally friendly way to transport small items. Before joining Wing in 2018, Jesse spent over six years with Google, working in government relations, public affairs, and public policy in Washington, DC and Sydney, Australia. Earlier in his career, Jesse worked in politics and public service including at the White House as Associate Director of Communications for President George W. Bush, and as Director of Media Services for Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney. Jesse also worked for the Government of Australia at its Embassy in Washington, DC, advising Ambassador Kim Beazley. Jesse serves on a number of advisory committees including the Australian Department of Infrastructure’s New and Emerging Aviation Technology Consultative Committee, the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority’s Regulatory Roadmap Technical Working Group, and the University of New South Wales School of Aviation’s Industry Advisory Committee. In the interview we talk about how drone delivery works, the testing that has gone into the systems, how drone delivery offers alternatives to car based delivery methods and lessons learnt in the various trials around the world. Jesse also discusses working with local authorities including the sharing of data. In podcast extra / culture corner, Jesse recommends the ‘The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York’, a 1974 biography of Robert Moses by Robert Caro. Details at Jess recommends ‘The Days’ a Netflix production on the Fukushima nuclear plant that experienced a Tsunami and earthquake in 2011. Details at . Technical details of the incident can be found at Pete recommends ‘Fauda’ a Netflix series on the Middle East conflict. Details at Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 5 December 2023.
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PlanningxChange 110: Professor Tim Parkin - The Romans and their cities
10/29/2023
PlanningxChange 110: Professor Tim Parkin - The Romans and their cities
In PX110, our interview guest is Professor Tim Parkin, we talk all things Roman particularly their city life. Tim Parkin joined the Classics and Archaeology department at the University of Melbourne in 2018 as the inaugural Elizabeth and James Tatoulis Chair in Classics. Before this he had spent over 11 years as Professor of Ancient History at the University of Manchester (UK). Tim is a New Zealander by birth who was awarded a D.Phil. at Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar and who, since 1989, has worked in universities in New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom, as well as spending over a year in Germany as an Alexander von Humboldt research fellow. His teaching covers both Greek and Roman history and classical languages. His main research is in ancient history, particularly Roman social, cultural, and demographic history. Among his publications are Demography and Roman Society (1992), Old Age in the Roman World: A Social and Cultural History (2003), Roman Social History: A Sourcebook (2007), and The Oxford Handbook of Childhood and Education in the Classical World (2014). Tim is currently working primarily on ancient sexual health, in particular sexually transmitted diseases, as well as co-editing a cultural history of old age from antiquity to the current day and a BICS supplement on domestic violence in the Roman world, and working on papers on elders in the early Christian church and the demographic realities of the ancient countryside. He is currently supervising research students in a wide range of topics including feminist readings of Ovid's Metamorphoses, the geographical writings of Solinus, concepts of revenge in the Roman world, and the uses of food, magic and drugs in the works of Apuleius. In 2023 he continues in his role as Deputy Head of the School of Historical and Philosophical Studies and he takes on a new role as Deputy Associate Dean (Partnerships) in the Faculty of Arts. He is also Honorary President of the Classical Association of Victoria. In podcast extra / culture corner Tim recommends the NZ actor Sam Neil’s Memoir ‘Did I Ever Tell You This?’ . Tim also recommends ‘Kellis: A Roman - Period Village in Egypt’s Dakhleh Oasis’ . Jess recommends ‘Dead Tide’ by Fiona Mcintosh Pete recommends ‘My father and me’ by Nick Broomfield. Also the work of Maurice Broomfield recognised by the V & A in the book ‘Maurice Broomfield Industrial Sublime’ (available in many libraries). See also Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 30 October 2023.
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PlanningxChange 109: Doug Tallamy - Home Grown National Park - native species over lawn
10/02/2023
PlanningxChange 109: Doug Tallamy - Home Grown National Park - native species over lawn
In PX109, our interview guest is Professor Douglas (Doug) Tallamy, the author of many nature books and co - founder along with Michelle Alfandari of Homegrown National Park (). Homegrown National Parks is a grassroots call - to - action to regenerate biodiversity and ecosystem function by planting native plants and creating new ecological networks. The group encourages homeowners and landowners to substitute native species for traditional garden approaches to encourage biodiversity. There are many resources to help people with the transition on their website. Doug is an American entomologist, ecologist and conservationist. He is a professor in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware. Doug advocates for home gardens and landscaping that bridge the gaps between parks and preserves in providing habitat for native species. He has spoken on the connections between plants and insects and how those relations are important to birds. He has called for smaller lawns. He has written a number of books on nature including: ‘Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation that starts in your yard.’ (Feb 2020), ‘Bringing Nature Home: How you can sustain wildlife with native plants.’ (April 2009), ‘The Nature of Oaks: The rich ecology of our most essential native trees’. (March 2021), with Rick Drake - ‘The Living Landscape: designing for beauty and biodiversity in the home garden’. (July 2014) and for children along with Sarah Thomson ‘Nature’s Best Hope (Young Readers Edition): How you can save the world in your own yard’. (April 2023) Doug has authored 97 research publications and has taught insect-related courses for 40 years. Chief among his research goals is to better understand the many ways insects interact with plants and how such interactions determine the diversity of animal communities. His research has been ground breaking showing links between insects, plants and wildlife that had never before been envisaged. His book Bringing Nature Home, published by Timber Press in 2007, was awarded the 2008 Silver Medal by the Garden Writers’ Association. Among his awards are the Garden Club of America Margaret Douglas Medal for Conservation and the Tom Dodd, Jr. Award of Excellence, the 2018 AHS B. Y. Morrison Communication Award, and the 2019 Cynthia Westcott Scientific Writing Award. There is an interview with Doug in the Smithsonian magazine: He appears on a number of YouTube talks and interviews. In podcast extra / culture corner Doug talks about David Attenborough’s latest show, ‘Wild Isles’ about nature in Great Britain and Ireland. Jess recommends ‘Mirror Man’ by author Fiona Mcintosh (). Pete mentions his ambitious plan to grow grass trees (). Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 3 October 2023.
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PlanningxChange 108: Dr Stefan Gruenert - Odyssey House - Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation
09/05/2023
PlanningxChange 108: Dr Stefan Gruenert - Odyssey House - Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation
In PX108, our interview guest is Dr Stefan Gruenert, the CEO of Odyssey House Victoria. Odyssey House Victoria is a state-wide, specialist treatment organisation dedicated to improving the lives of individuals who experience significant or long-term problems from alcohol and other drug use. Stefan describes the work of Odyssey House and the clients they serve. He talks of the various programs on offer. He describes how the OH facilities work and about the knowledge gained in providing effective treatment. Many drug and alcohol rehabilitation projects run the gauntlet of the development approval system. Stefan talks of his experiences with the development assessment process and makes observations about common misconceptions. As a disclaimer, Pete has worked as a planning consultant for Odyssey House. Podcast extra / culture corner Stefan talks about the joys of learning German listening to the podcast ‘Coffee Break German’ (https://coffeebreaklanguages.com/coffeebreakgerman/). Also he recommends the Netflix documentary series ‘Alone’ (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alone_(TV_series)). Jess recommends a Netflix documentary ‘The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari’ https://www.netflix.com/au/title/81410405. Pete recommends a documentary on NHK (Japanese state broadcaster) ‘Return to an Abandoned Village: 50 Years in Tsubayama)’ https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/tv/worldprime/20230429/3016152/ Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 5 September 2023.
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PlanningxChange 107 Kate Hardwick: shining bright
07/27/2023
PlanningxChange 107 Kate Hardwick: shining bright
In PX107, our interview guest is Kate Hardwick an exceptional planning professional originally from Australia who now works in South East Asia. Kate takes the listener on a fascinating journey describing her professional career. Along the way she offers tips to those starting out and also to those seeking a new direction after a number of years in the job. She talks of recognising and responding to cultural variations and social norms in many different countries. Also in gaining humility and the value, often overlooked, of actually listening and observing. Kate looks back on her early career and identifies key change moments. She also talks of the challenges and rewards of working on large scale 'new world' urban development projects both oin the west and east. There is a particular segment of note on how Singapore does planning. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner, Kate recommends ‘War Transformed’ by Major General Mick Ryan . Jess recommends the pleasures of farmers markets while Pete reads a poem about his new dog. Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 27 July 2023.
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PlanningxChange 106: James Vincent - Smart Cities Technology
07/03/2023
PlanningxChange 106: James Vincent - Smart Cities Technology
In PX106, our interview guest is James Vincent who is the CTO at NCS NEXT Australia, a global digital, data and cloud services consultancy (). James is a senior people leader with 25 years’ commercial IT experience and an established authority in large-scale strategic transformation in enterprise environments and delivering business outcomes through technology. In this episode James shares four smart city technology solutions government could adopt to improve citizen services amid a rapidly growing urban population. Smart meters, sensor technology and AI in buildings to reduce environmental footprint are some of the examples that James touches on. With Australia’s population projected to reach 30 million between 2029 and 2033, adding pressure to the quality and delivery of services for the community, James describes how it’s becoming more important to leverage modern technology to improve experiences and the efficiency of infrastructure, public transport, travel and roads. He has previously stated: “Urban populations are growing at unprecedented rates, so we need to keep investing in smart city technology to create a brighter and more stable future. When further demand is added to systems such as public transport and traffic networks, some will struggle to cope – leading to overcrowding and poor-quality experiences. “Modern technology is making safe, scalable, sustainable cities and performant governments a reality. In particular, smart city technology helps accommodate large and rapid urban population growth, facilitate resource conservation such as water and carbon, and improve the quality of services for the community across utilities, transport, healthcare, waste management, air quality, safety and wellbeing, and emergency response. “We’re already starting to see various levels of Government engage in public-private partnerships and sponsored collaboration to modernise and advance services through technology. It’s a great step in improving access for citizens and the broader community and one we hope will continue in response to the changing population’s needs.” The concept of ’Smart Cities’ has been touted before. In this episode we talk about how technologies and systems thinking has created previously unrealisable outcomes. James, in a very broad discussion talks about how these technologies are just as relevant in developing nations as they are in first world countries. We also talk about the potential downsides of such technologies in terms of civic life. In the interview we also discuss visions of the future portrayed through popular culture. A wide ranging and testing interview on a topic that those responsibility ofor cities and towns will have to grapple with. We hope the episode makes a positive contribution to an understanding of the issues. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner, James recommends the Emperor series by British author Con Iggulden . The series follows the life of Julius Caesar. On another note he describes his efforts trying to build an acoustic guitar, quite a challenge! He revels in the hands on, craft aspect of the task. Jess has a TV show recommendation, Fisk (. Pete recommends Wuthering Heights () and the PlanningxChange Spotify playlist! Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 3 July 2023.
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PlanningxChange 105: Torie Brown - Student accommodation
06/05/2023
PlanningxChange 105: Torie Brown - Student accommodation
In PX105, our interview guest is Torie Brown, Executive Director of the Student Accommodation Council. The Council was formed in 2022 by the Property Council to give a voice to the critically important purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sector which provides homes for over 76,500 students per year, a figure that continues to grow. Providing vibrant and connected housing options for students underpins Australia’s largest service export – international education. Ensuring a strong pipeline of beds also reduces pressure on the broader residential rental market by providing a safe, student-only housing choice. Torie talks about the vital importance of this type of housing stock and along the way dispels various misconceptions about the users of such housing and the housing type. She talks about the evolution of design practice and how this is linked to the constant feedback provided by occupants. She also identifies good locational PBSA criteria and makes various suggestions to policy makers on how to facilitate the growth of this sector. There are 200+ PBSA developments in Australia. It is the fourth largest student market in the world. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner, Torie recommends an article ‘Investors backing student beds in downturn’ () and ‘Poker Face’ on Stan (). Jess has no book ar film recommendations but does discuss the joy of setting aside an hour each week, early morning, in a cafe, for ‘life admin’. Pete recommends the film clip of AC/DC - It’s a Long Way to the Top (If you wanna rock ’n’ roll). The band plays the song on the back of a flatbed truck travelling slowly down the main street of Melbourne’s CBD, in 1976. A great audacious, larrikin performance (). Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 5 June 2023.
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PlanningxChange 104: Vanessa Schernickau - CEO of the Geelong Regional Library Corporation
05/01/2023
PlanningxChange 104: Vanessa Schernickau - CEO of the Geelong Regional Library Corporation
In PX104, our interview guest is Vanessa Schernickau, the Chief Executive Officer of the Geelong Regional Library Corporation (GRLC). The GRLC provides library and information services to residents and visitors across the Geelong region on behalf of five local government councils. The network consists of a central library, 18 community libraries, three mobile libraries and website. It provides free, universal access to lifelong learning, reading and discovery. The Geelong Library began in 1858 as part of the Mechanics Institute. Vanessa talks about her first library book and a lifetime love of libraries. She talks of the dynamic changes that have led to the modern library model. This model has changed with the times and now a substantial component of user requirements are not associated with physical books. As the industrialist and great patron of public libraries Andrew Carnegie famously put it more than a century ago, “A library outranks any other one thing a community can do to benefit its people. It is a never-failing spring in the desert.” His words ring true today. We chose libraries as an interview topic as they represent one of the few public places in our towns and cities. They also provide a good deal of assistance to people navigating government services and simply as pleasant places to rest and relax. In Podcast Extra / Culture Corner, Vanessa recommends two books, ‘The Colony’ by Audrey Magee and ’Small things like these’ by Claire Keegan. Jess recommends ‘The House of Eve’ by Sadeqa Johnson. Pete recommends ‘100 Poems, 100 Poets (Hyaku-nin isshu). Audio production by Jack Bavage. Podcast released 1 May 2023.
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