Best Liveable Places Podcasts (2024)

1
MUMA - Pip Wallis 32:54

8h ago32:54

32:54

We had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Pip Wallis, Senior Curator at MUMA Monash University Museum of Art! Pip has curated a solo exhibition of work by acclaimed Chinese-American artist Candice Lin titled ‘The Sex Life of Stone’ opening this weekend, Saturday 29th of June. Candice Lin is an interdisciplinary artist who works across ceramics …

1
138 Gallery - Sylva and Victoria 53:46

2d ago53:46

53:46

Recently, we had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Sylva and Victoria from 138 Gallery! 138 is based in Brunswick East on Lygon Street. We were lucky enough to chat all about their gallery space, their accessible application processes and their exhibitions! At the time, they were showing Aperitif, a group exhibition with Shannon Toth, Georgia …

1
Storytelling to Inspire Engagement in Urban Planning (with Uytae Lee) 48:35

9d ago48:35

48:35

Uytae Lee from the YouTube channel About Here, joins Helen Lui to chat about storytelling in urban planning, emphasizing the need for effective communication strategies to drive public engagement. They also advocate for diverse voices in advocating for inclusive urban environments. About Here: https://www.youtube.com/@AboutHere Show Credits: Host: …

1
The Future of Urban Planning 46:56

16d ago46:56

46:56

Helen Lui interviews Fern Hahn, a transit advocate and urban planning student, who shares experiences that shaped their perspective on public transit. Fern discusses advocating for better transit and their interest in transit network design. Next, Helen speaks with Matthew and Emma from UBC CAPACity, focusing on engaging university students in urba…

1
Designing for Happiness (with Houssam Elokda) 47:32

23d ago47:32

47:32

The conversation continues with Houssam Elokda from Happy Cities, as Helen Lui explores the impact of the built environment on communities, emphasizing the importance of creating livable and sustainable cities. They discuss the subjective nature of happiness and well-being in urban settings, also highlighting the significance of social connections,…

1
Does Density Impact Happiness? (with Houssam Elokda) 35:35

1M ago35:35

35:35

Density is a hotly debated topic in urban centres. Is it good? Is it bad? Does it make us more isolated, more lonely, or can it improve our happiness? Helen Lui speaks with Houssam Elokda, from Happy Cities. Their research explores the connection between urban design and happiness, striving to enhance the quality of life in cities through sustainab…

1
#10 The Resilient City 14:44

1M ago14:44

14:44

‘Resilience’ has become something of a buzzword these days – not just in terms of a desirable personality trait but also something companies and even cities can aspire to. But what does it look like in practice? We travel to Rotterdam to ask: What exactly makes a city resilient? How can you measure such a thing? And whose job is it to prepare our c…

1
From Neighbours to Community 45:14

1M ago45:14

45:14

Helen Lui speaks with Mark Boardman and Alyssa Sacal from Minivillage, a Vancouver-based company fostering social connections within neighbourhoods. Mark discusses transforming neighbours into friends, while Alyssa emphasizes combating loneliness. The conversation explores authentic community bonds, the impact of physical environments on social con…

1
Next Wave - Matisse and Banda 16:12

1M ago16:12

16:12

I had the pleasure of chatting with two of Next Wave’s Artistic Directors, Anthony ‘Banda’ Bandalan and Matisse Laida. Next Wave is celebrating 40 years with an exciting program called All School Lab - full of artist talks, performances and activities running over the 24th and 25th of May. The event will conclude with a party curated by Next Wave’s…

1
Designing Public Spaces 48:29

1M ago48:29

48:29

Helen Lui is joined by architects Amit Price Patel and Jill Robertson from DIALOG, to discuss the design of great public spaces. They share insights on the political power of design, the intersection of science and art in shaping communities, and the significance of community engagement in creating inclusive spaces. The conversation emphasizes incl…

1
Other Goods - Monikha 1:04:25

2M ago1:04:25

1:04:25

For our new vol Lucy's first show we chatted with Monikha from Other Goods and Services - all about Goods, Services, and manifesting the best work-balance lifestyle possible in the industry. Monikha was a delight to chat with, and we're really keen to see what's going to happen next in the Other Goods space! Other Goods is a local shop front, event…

1
#9 Honest Mistakes 15:22

2M ago15:22

15:22

Why do we fear failure? Sustainability is an iterative process. There are no shortcuts. But in a world focussed on success, we often hide from our mistakes. Recognising this, Gerald Babel-Sutter set out to unite urban change-makers in an environment where they could confidently share their pitfalls, problems, and brick walls. The idea caught on. Wh…

1
Vivian Qiu - Artist Interview 30:01

2M ago30:01

30:01

This week, we had the opportunity to speak with emerging artist Vivian Qiu all about her practice, projects and philosophy! Vivian develops material forms in order to consider cultural identity and connection to place. Through experimentation with organic materials, she has built a 'sentimental' practice of jewellery-making. Check out Vivian's work…

1
Zeta Hamilton-Durkin - Artist Interview 39:39

2M ago39:39

39:39

Before our season break, I spoke to Zeta Hamilton-Durkin, local young filmmaker, dancer and visual artist. Listen now to a great chat with Zeta about her practice, her upcoming exhibitions and the connections she makes with other emerging artists! Art Smitten airs on SYN Radio 90.7 FM SYN Media acknowledges and pays respect to the people of the Woi…

1
The Evolution of Third Spaces (with the Sneaky Artist) 54:59

2M ago54:59

54:59

Helen Lui is joined by Urban Sketch Artist Nishant Jain, also known as "the Sneaky Artist" to discuss the concept of 'Third Spaces'—the places between home and work where social bonds are forged and community enriched. We explore how these spaces, from parks to cafes, are not just physical locations but also platforms for cultural expression and so…

1
How Do We Improve Public Transportation? (with RMTransit) 44:23

2M ago44:23

44:23

Reece Martin from the YouTube channel RMTransit joins Helen Lui to discuss the evolving landscape of urban mobility and public transit. Explore the cutting-edge developments and innovative solutions that are shaping the future of our cities. Reece, who grew up in the Lower Mainland, and now a resident of Toronto, shares his expert insights on the c…

1
Getting there Safely (with Lucy Maloney) 37:20

2M ago37:20

37:20

Helen Lui explores the critical need for safer, more sustainable urban transportation with Lucy Maloney, a fervent cycling advocate who leads the organization "Love The Lane" and is also a HUB Cycling member. Lucy discusses the ongoing efforts to promote safer streets in Vancouver, addressing the broader challenges of shifting public policy. She hi…

1
Cities for People and the Planet (with Rhiannon Fox) 33:14

2M ago33:14

33:14

Helen Lui discusses the interconnectedness of urban development, climate initiatives, and public safety with guest, environmental scientist Rhiannon Fox. Highlighting the benefits of dense, less car-dependent cities, the discussion emphasizes community involvement and personal action as catalysts for change. Rhiannon shares how individual efforts c…

1
#8 Citizens, Assemble! 15:27

3M ago15:27

15:27

Elected officials make decisions that affect millions of people, but beyond voting every few years, what say do citizens really have? Maybe democracy needs a tune-up. A citizens’ assembly – a sort of lottery promising better representation – can bring diverse voices to the table. Copenhagen has already given it a go, and the change in perspectives …

1
Blindside - Ponie Curtis and Phuong Nguyen Le 54:53

3M ago54:53

54:53

This week I spoke with emerging artists Ponie Curtis and Phuong Nguyen Le, who have both recently graduated from their respective arts courses at VCA and RMIT. Joining us was Audrey Thomas-Hayes, one of the curators of DEBUT XX and artistic director at Blindside. DEBUT is Blindside Gallery’s annual exhibition of works by recent graduates from Naarm…

1
#42 - Steve Mouzon: True Sustainability & the Importance of Loveable Cities 1:12:22

3M ago1:12:22

1:12:22

Steve Mouzon is an architect, urbanist and author known for his work in the New Urbanism movement. With several influential books and articles on the subject of sustainable and traditional architecture, including "The Original Green: Unlocking the Mystery of True Sustainability," today’s guest goes beyond the regular, technological solutions to fix…

1
#7 How to Move a City 15:29

3M ago15:29

15:29

Moving an entire city? It’s not science fiction. Faced with an existential crisis, the city of Kiruna, in Sweden, is being relocated approximately three kilometres away from where it was founded – brick by brick. The whole process raises some interesting questions: how exactly do you undertake such a massive task? What do you bring with you from th…

1
100 Years of Surrealism 22:03

3M ago22:03

22:03

Did you know that 2024 marks 100 years of Surrealism? I dive into the birth of Surrealism and introduce you to the terms, techniques and artists that work within the movement. Art Smitten airs on SYN Radio 90.7 FM See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By SYN Media

1
Louise Meuwissen - Artist Interview 1:37:50

3M ago1:37:50

1:37:50

I interviewed contemporary textile and embroidery artist and good friend, Louise Meuwissen. Louise and I chat about her practice in art and fashion, the art world and it’s structures and our shared love of collecting second-hand objects. A big thank you to Louise for inviting me into her space and facilitating such an interesting chat ❤️ Art Smitte…

1
Bus Projects - Jermaine Ibarra and Juliet Phraser 44:01

3M ago44:01

44:01

This week I had the pleasure of speaking to local artists Jermaine Ibarra and Juliet Phraser about their exhibitions at Bus Projects. Jermaine Ibarra and Sara Jajou have a duet exhibition opening today, the 27th of March, titled Love Song open till the 20th of April. https://busprojects.org.au/program/love-song Juliet Phraser has a solo show openin…

1
#6 The Tada Manifesto 13:51

4M ago13:51

13:51

How can we ensure that a ‘smart city’ is also a fair, diverse and ethical one? We talk to Douwe Schmidt from the city of Amsterdam about the thorny issues cities face when implementing technological solutions, and why we can’t leave ethical decision-making to the computers. Featuring: Douwe SchmidtBy Urban Future

1
Into the White Cube 17:51

4M ago17:51

17:51

Ever wondered why art galleries have plain white walls, bright white light, and simple minimalist decor? This interior practice has been labelled the ‘white cube’ by art writer Brian O’Doherty in his fundamental 1976 text, ‘Inside the White Cube: The Ideology of the Gallery Space.’ This week for our art history segment, Audrey dives into the concep…

1
#5 The Unlikely Urban Planners 14:21

4M ago14:21

14:21

What would a city designed entirely by children look like? And what could it tell us about the cities we live in now – the good things and the bad? Academic Christina Ergler's research into pre-school aged children and the urban environment has some surprising insights for the experts (and the adults) who make the big decisions about our cities, as…

1
BC Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon 44:45

4M ago44:45

44:45

Host Helen Lui welcomes Ravi Kahlon, MLA for North Delta and British Columbia’s Housing Minister, to discuss transformative approaches to the housing crisis. Minister Kallon shares his political journey and the personal experiences fueling his commitment to driving positive change. They delve into the shift towards embracing density, the introducti…

1
#41 - Lew Oliver: New Urbanism, Humane Design, Facades as Masks & Architectural Truth Bombs 1:05:30

4M ago1:05:30

1:05:30

Lew Oliver is an Atlanta-based designer, urbanist and master planner, celebrated for advancing New Urbanism and designing whole towns with a focus on the pedestrian experience. He masterfully blends local values, vernacular, and climate considerations into his work, ensuring communities are not only livable but also aesthetically enriching. His not…

1
Romanticism on Valentine's Day 16:55

4M ago16:55

16:55

This week our new Executive Producer, Audrey, delved into Romanticism and the Sublime, starting with history of the movement and then discussing Neo-Romanticism in art. Ending with an idea of a 'New Romanticim' in contemporary Australian art, one that you can take with you on your upcoming gallery visits. Artworks discussed in this segment were: Ca…

1
#4 Orange Sky 14:05

4M ago14:05

14:05

Turning big ideas into reality is what CityChangers do. But what happens when, against the odds, you finally achieve your goal? What next? Nicholas Marchesi, of charity Orange Sky, launched the world’s first mobile laundry, helping Brisbane's homeless community to wash and dry their clothes. Then he discovered this served a very different purpose..…

1
2024 Updates and the Power of Pausing to Connect 12:11

5M ago12:11

12:11

Hi #SmartCommunity friends! I sat down with my podcast producer Ellen to record a little update episode, there is a little bit of Smart Community Podcast news and we want to keep you in the loop! We are planning to take an extended break from the podcast because unfortunately my Mum is very unwell. So I'm going to take some time to be with her and …

1
#3 The Tiny Town Hall 13:40

5M ago13:40

13:40

With declining rates of civic engagement across cities around the world, Kiel, in Germany, is taking a unique approach to improving participation – by putting it on wheels! The Tiny Townhall is a world-first project that brings city government out of the stuffy buildings we’re used to and back to the citizens. And, in a time when bigger is often be…

1
Summer Series: The Neon Grid and Nighttime Economy in Smart Communities, with Samuel Austin 40:29

5M ago40:29

40:29

Hi #SmartCommunity friends! Welcome to the Summer Series here on the Smart Community Podcast. As you know, we’re taking a little break from new content over the Australian summer holidays, and instead we are sharing the replays of a few of our all time favourite episodes. This week we’re sharing my interview with Samuel Austin from Episode 340, whi…

1
#40 - Jonathan Weatherill: Teaching in Rome, Drawing, Moving towards Traditional Architecture Without the Myths 1:12:34

5M ago1:12:34

1:12:34

Jonathan Weatherill is an architect based in Rome and professor at Notre Dame University. He graduated at the Architectural Association in London over 25 years ago and now runs his own practice. He has collaborated with the 2014 Driehaus laureate Pier Carlo Bontempi for a long time, leading to a shift in his practice from Modernism to Traditional a…

1
#2 The Slow Lane 13:48

5M ago13:48

13:48

What links pedestrian crossings in Chicago, USA, with the Sydney Opera House in Australia? Sascha Haselmayer’s surprising story provides an unexpected answer to this unusual question, and it’s led to positive change in more than 130 cities around the world. In this episode, Sascha explains why we should embrace red tape and presents a case for taki…

1
#1 Rotterdam Rooftops 13:00:00

5M ago13:00:00

13:00:00

Facing their fair share of challenges on the ground (from housing shortages to climate change) cities like Rotterdam are looking skywards for solutions – to the rooftops. There’s plenty of opportunity but also headwinds on the horizon. For one thing: where most roofs are owned by private citizens, how do you convince more people to look up and see …

1
Summer Series: Pioneering Intelligent Transport Systems in Uganda, with Michael Wanyama 48:55

5M ago48:55

48:55

Hi #smartcommunity friends! Welcome to the Summer Series here on the Smart Community Podcast. As you know, we’re taking a little break from new content over the Australian summer holidays, and instead we are sharing the replays of a few of our all time favourite episodes. This week we’re sharing my interview with Michael Wanyama from Episode 335, w…

1
Summer Series: Smart Communities on Earth and in Space, with Dr. Michaela Musilova 41:46

6M ago41:46

41:46

Hi #smartcommunity friends! Welcome back to the Summer Series here on the Smart Community Podcast. As you know, we’re taking a little break from new content over the Australian summer holidays, and instead we are sharing the replays of a few of our all time favourite episodes. This week we’re sharing my interview with Dr. Michaela Musilova from Epi…

1
#39 - Pierre Bidaud, Stonemasonry Company: Natural Stone, or the Most Underrated Construction Material 29:25

6M ago29:25

29:25

Pierre Bidaud is a skilled stonemason and entrepreneur promoting the use of natural stone for load bearing structures. He is the co founder of the Structural Stone Company, part of the Stonemasonry Company which is based in London. With his company, he is proving that natural stone is still one of the most versatile, sustainable and beautiful mater…

1
Summer Series: Local Government Challenges and Lessons Learnt in Smart Communities, with Martin Darcy 44:38

6M ago44:38

44:38

Hi #smartcommunity friends! Welcome to the Summer Series here on the Smart Community Podcast. We’re taking a little break from new content over the Australian summer holidays, and instead we are sharing the replays of a few of our all time favourite episodes. This week to kick off the series, we’re sharing my interview with Martin Darcy, who was on…

1
The Future of Housing 47:23

7M ago47:23

47:23

We delve into the pressing issues of housing and city building, revisiting discussions with guests Michelle Cyca and Khelsilem, who have underlined the need for immediate action. We explored root causes of the housing crisis, such as the historical supply limitations as well as city planning that excluded many from accessing housing. Michelle and K…

1
Data, Digital Innovation and the Sustainable Development Goals in Smart Communities, with Calum Handforth 43:34

7M ago43:34

43:34

Hi #SmartCommunity friends! Welcome back to the Smart Community Podcast. In this episode I have a fantastic conversation with Calum Handforth. Calum works for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and has led innovation and digitalisation efforts globally, as well as advised governments around the world. He was also Co-Chair of the Digita…

1
#38 - Micah Springut, Monumental Labs: Disrupting How We Build - Robotics, AI & Automated Stone Carving 43:04

7M ago43:04

43:04

Micah Springut is an entrepreneur based in New York City. After having set up multiple successful software startups, he is now on the path of disrupting the way we construct our buildings using AI and robotics. Potentially, his new company Monumental Labs could enable us to build more ornate, detailed buildings on a larger scale and for lower cost …

1
Another Point of View 33:55

7M ago33:55

33:55

Michelle Cyca, a seasoned freelance journalist, joins Helen Lui and delves into the complexities of the housing market, touching upon themes like home ownership and the evolving notion of housing wealth. The episode features a candid reflection on the soaring housing prices in Vancouver, discussing the impact on families and the generational wealth…

1
Matthew Lutton - Hour of the Wolf 8:54

7M ago8:54

8:54

Hour of the Wolf creator and director Matthew Lutton joined Zack and Josh to discuss the immersive theatre production. A follow-up to 2021's Because the Night, Hour of the Wolf invites audiences to walk around the town and experience mystery first-hand. You can listen to Art Smitten live every Saturday from 12pm on SYN 90.7. Get in touch with the s…

1
Jye Walker - Peter Pan: A Musical Adventure 7:47

7M ago7:47

7:47

Jye Walker, actor behind the devilish Captain Hook in The Mount Players Theatre Company's musical rendition of Peter Pan, joined the show to talk about playing the classic villain. You can listen to Art Smitten live every Saturday from 12pm on SYN 90.7. Get in touch with the show on our Instagram @artsmittensyn See omnystudio.com/listener for priva…

1
Jude Perl - SugarHope Records 12:47

7M ago12:47

12:47

Comedian Jude Perl joined the show to talk about her new record and web-series SugarHope Records. You can listen to Art Smitten live every Saturday from 12pm on SYN 90.7. Get in touch with the show on our Instagram @artsmittensyn See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By SYN Media

1
MaggZ - New Reality 11:29

7M ago11:29

11:29

Zack and Josh were joined by Naarm-based artist, performer, and dancer MaggZ to talk about their instillation at the Immigration Museum, New Reality. You can listen to Art Smitten live every Saturday from 12pm on SYN 90.7. Get in touch with the show on our Instagram @artsmittensyn See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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