SCU Buzz | The Southern Cross University podcast

How do new industries actually get built - and where are the next big opportunities in regional Australia? In this episode recorded live at Primex Field Days 2026, we explore how research, agriculture and industry collaboration are driving the future of farming, creating new markets, and unlocking high-value opportunities - from functional foods to the fast-growing hemp industry. Recorded in the Northern Rivers, this episode brings together researchers and industry leaders to break down how innovation moves from early research to real-world impact. You’ll learn: - How emerging industries are developed from research to market - Why regional agriculture is shifting towards value-add and diversification - How crops like rice and hemp are being adapted for new climates and new uses - The real barriers to scaling new industries (regulation, supply chains, funding) - Where the biggest opportunities are in hemp, plant-based products and sustainable materials Why it matters: Regional economies are changing. Smaller farms and shifting climates mean success now depends on innovation, differentiation and collaboration - not just production. This episode shows how research is helping regions: - Build entirely new industries - Increase farm profitability - Create more sustainable and resilient systems Key takeaways: - New industries are co-designed across research, business and government - The future of farming is diversified, high-value and sustainability-driven - Hemp is an emerging sector with major potential—but needs policy and investment - The biggest gains come from rethinking how we use what we already grow Who should listen? Farmers and agribusiness professionals Students interested in science, agriculture or sustainability Entrepreneurs exploring new markets Anyone curious about real-world research impact

Training for a marathon comes with big questions: Am I doing enough? Too much? What should I eat? And how do I avoid injury? In this episode, a panel of Southern Cross University researchers and practitioners sit down with Olympian Courtney Atkinson to translate the science of endurance performance into practical, everyday advice. Covering everything from biomechanics and injury prevention to nutrition and race-day strategy, this conversation is designed to help runners at every level make smarter decisions in their training. In this episode, you’ll take away: - Evidence-based principles for building endurance safely and sustainably - How to balance training load with recovery to avoid burnout and injury - Insights from osteopathy on movement, pain and running mechanics - Real-world nutrition advice for fuelling training and racing - What carb loading actually involves—and how to do it properly - Tips for managing gut issues and improving tolerance during long runs - Effective recovery habits, including sleep, hydration and active recovery - Pacing strategies to help you avoid hitting the wall - Mental techniques to stay focused and push through fatigue Grounded in research but built for real runners, this episode gives you the tools to train with confidence, perform at your best, and enjoy the process along the way.

Essential Stories: Creativity, Community, and Collective Identity was presented by Southern Cross University and NORPA. A sold-out discussion moderated by Professor David Heilpern that brought together national and local voices to explore how community storytelling and place-based cultural practices can support recovery, resilience and a renewed sense of collective identity. This discussion formed part of NORPA’s wider creative development project 'Dinner Party at the End of the World', a bold multi-artform response to the 2022 floods that supports regional recovery through local stories, connection and reflection. SCU academic Jeanti St Clair contributed key research and community insights, reinforcing the University’s commitment to regionally relevant research and meaningful community partnerships. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Rewilding the Stage: Agency and Responsibility in Feminine Creativity was presented by Southern Cross University and NORPA. This panel discussion explores female creativity in the production of NORPA’s performance, WILDSKIN. The panel analyses how themes of ‘rewilding’ were woven into the production, from choreography to set and costume design. The discussion is chaired by Southern Cross University Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and feminist historian, Professor Mary Spongberg. Panellists include: Charlotte Haywood; Set and Costume Designer, NORPA Jade Dewi Tyas Tunggal; Movement Director and Performer, NORPA Heather Fairbairn; Associate Director, NORPA. This panel session was recorded live at NORPA. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

In this powerful panel discussion, four distinguished alumni — Greg Young (CEO, Coast Entertainment Holdings), Marion Charlton (COO, Queensland Airports), Will Brook (CEO, Brookfarm), and moderator Georgina Holt (Director, Co-Creative Studios) — share candid insights into what it truly means to lead in 2025. From navigating crises like COVID and industry tragedies, to building resilient teams and staying true to values under pressure, this episode explores: - Whether leadership is innate or developed - The role of authenticity, trust, and culture in effective leadership - How values are tested in real-world decision-making - Practical tips for emerging leaders, including networking, self-care, and getting things done Whether you're a student, entrepreneur, or seasoned executive, this episode offers rich, relatable stories and actionable advice to help you grow as a leader in any field. This audio was recorded at our Lessons in Leadership: Alumni Lunch Series. Study business: https://www.scu.edu.au/study/business/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

A special edition buzz from a BusinessNSW summit at Southern Cross University. Sophie Cruikshank, head of sustainability at Essential Energy, chats to Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Education Impact) Ben Roche about how to deal with change, from fundamental internal transformation to external pressures like COVID and the floods.

In this episode of SCU Buzz, Dr Owen Hogan chats with Lara Goode, SCU alumna and founder of Coastal Therapies, about her journey from new osteopath to thriving clinic owner. Lara shares the highs and lows of starting a business, including rebuilding after a flood, managing staff, and balancing work with motherhood. They also discuss the upcoming Graduate Certificate in Small Business Management, designed to help professionals - especially in allied health - gain the business skills needed to launch and grow their own ventures. Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Small Business Management: https://www.scu.edu.au/study/courses/graduate-certificate-in-small-business-management-1008130/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

With the rise of smartphones and social media, bullying has evolved far beyond the schoolyard, creating additional challenges for school communities to protect young people. In this episode of the SCU Buzz podcast, Dr Vanessa Miller and Dr Tony Yeigh from Southern Cross University’s Faculty of Education explore the growing issue of cyberbullying and share their expert recommendations for addressing this national problem. Learn more about research in the Faculty of Education: https://www.scu.edu.au/education/research/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

It's no secret that Australians love coffee. We consume more than 6 billion cups of it each year. Yet less than 1% of this coffee is grown in Australia. Researchers from Southern Cross University, Dr Simon Williams, Dr Ben Liu and Professor Tobias Kretzschmar, speak on the SCU Buzz podcast about their research project that is looking to boost Aussie beans by developing a more suitable variety of coffee planet for the Australian climate, as well as a unique way to describe it. Learn more about Southern Cross University’s coffee research project: https://www.scu.edu.au/news/2023/its-coffee-time--who-ordered-the-fresh-bread-flat-white/#d.en.514489 This research is part of the Harvest to Health Research Impact Cluster: https://www.scu.edu.au/research/harvest-to-health/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Southern Cross University’s Early Offer program is designed to make the process of applying for university as a Year 12 student easy and cost-free. Future Students Officers Jaci and Gabi explain what is and how to apply in this episode of the SCU Buzz podcast. Plus, student Sienna talks about her experience applying through the Early Offer program and receiving a generous scholarship. Apply now: https://www.scu.edu.au/study/high-school-students/entry-pathways/early-offer/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

How can businesses innovate and utilise artificial intelligence to stay ahead? And how is Southern Cross University's 2026 Bachelor of Business preparing students to meet industry demand? In this episode, Associate Professor John Haw sits down with Gold Coast Innovation Hub (GCIH) Founder and CEO Sharon Hunneybell and GCIH Workplace and Program Coordinator Josh Smith to discuss the new degree, the need for business 'all-rounders' and global study opportunities. 2026 Bachelor of Business: https://www.scu.edu.au/study/courses/bachelor-of-business-3007255/ Gold Coast Innovation Hub: https://www.gchub.com.au/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

In the lead-up to the 2025 Gold Coast Marathon, Southern Cross University held the webinar 'The Road to Success: Building Mental and Physical Endurance'. Speakers include: . Dr Chris Stevens, Chair of Discipline, Human Sciences and Rehabilitation - Faculty of Health . Dr Melanie Clarke, Post Doctoral Research Fellow - Faculty of Health . Dr Gabriel Fernandes, Senior Physiotherapist and Lecturer in Physiotherapy - Faculty of Health . Keegan Hipgrave, former NRL player and host of the 'Keegan & Company' podcast. This webinar discusses endurance training, overcoming mental blocks, training with an injury and much more. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

February and March 2022 saw close to 1,000 schools in the Northern Rivers region temporarily close, with some schools unable to return to their original locations. The disaster resulted in damaged infrastructure and educational materials, displaced families and impacted teachers. Southern Cross University researchers have launched the Floods + Me project to work with young people in gathering their experiences during and following the natural disaster and its impact on their schooling. Dr Simone Blom and Dr Liberty de Rivera speak on the SCU Buzz podcast about the research project and their upcoming education framework aimed at helping schools prepare for floods. Learn more: https://www.scu.edu.au/education/research/sustainability-environment-and-the-arts-in-education-seae-research-cluster/floods--me/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

A new scholarship program for Honours and PhD students will enable students to learn skills in artificial intelligence (AI) and solve problems for businesses in implementing circular economy principles. The AI-Powered Digital Transformation for the Smart Circular Economy Scholarships are available for students to study Southern Cross University’s Bachelor of Innovation with Honours or a Doctor of Philosophy. Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Science and Engineering and Principal Research Scientist at CSIRO, Dr Aaron Thornton speaks with Co-Founders of CSENS.io, Oliver and Malcolm Robertson, and CEO and Founder of Revolve Your World, Luke McConell, on this episode of SCU Buzz. Learn more about the Honours scholarship here: https://www.scu.edu.au/scholarships/ai-smart-circular-economy-scholarship/ Learn more about the PhD scholarship here: https://www.scu.edu.au/graduate-school/scholarships/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

What ethical issues arise when we take a human-centred approach to the legal protections of animals? Ecologist, lawyer and lecturer in law at Southern Cross University Dr Meri Oakwood speaks on the SCU Buzz podcast about the complexities and morality of how the Australian legal system views wildlife and domestic animals and the steps needed to effect change. Please be advised this episode contains references to domestic violence and animal cruelty. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Rivers, oceans and waterways are the lifeblood of our communities. So, what happens when the health of our water systems declines? Environmental chemist and award-winning academic, Professor Amanda Reichelt-Brushett speaks on the SCU Buzz podcast about her local and global research into river health and marine pollution. Learn more about studying science and environment at Southern Cross University: https://www.scu.edu.au/study/science-and-environment/ Learn more about environmental research: https://www.scu.edu.au/research/#d.en.479263 The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Business trailblazer, philanthropist and advocate for women empowerment, Bonnie Boezeman AO, believes nurses should have equal opportunity to advance in their careers. Speaking on the SCU Buzz podcast, Bonnie shares insight into her entrepreneurial spirit and the creation of the Bonnie Boezeman AO Leadership in Nursing Scholarship, in partnership with Chief Executive Women and Southern Cross University.

Does the social media ban for children go too far, or not far enough? Under a controversial new law, which comes into force at the end of 2025, children under 16 will not be permitted to hold an account on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat. Law lecturer Yvette Holt and Honours student Jayne Phillips discuss the ban, its consequences, and the issues social media poses for privacy and democracy. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Commencing higher education can be an exciting time full of new experiences and challenges. To help you navigate university life and studies, Southern Cross University’s First Year Adviser Program offers tailored support for first year students. Manager of First Year Success, Dr Pete Muir, gives his advice on how to succeed during your first year of university. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Despite having a prescription, Australians who use medicinal cannabis with THC cannot legally drive or risk a fine and loss of licence. Southern Cross University Dean of Law, Professor David Heilpern, is calling for reforms to road laws surrounding medicinal cannabis to ensure patients aren’t unfairly penalised for seeking treatment. Foundation Director of Southern Cross University's National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Professor Jon Wardle, outlines the national research underway into cannabis plants, its properties and health benefits. This musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

There is no need for a gap year when you can travel as part of your studies. Southern Cross Global Director, Global Engagement, Christine Martin explains how global experiences work and how students can apply. Bachelor of Science student Yasmeen talks about her year abroad in South Korea thanks to a New Colombo Plan scholarship. Learn more about global experiences: scu.edu.au/global-experience The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Gumbaynggirr man and physiotherapist Joe Bryant talks to manager of the Indigenous Australian Student Services at Southern Cross University Anthony Olive about why it's important to have Indigenous practitioners in healthcare, as he shares some of his experiences in the field. Southern Cross will offer a Bachelor of Physiotherapy for the first time in 2025 at the Coffs Harbour campus. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Student Kaz sits down with author Tim Baker at the 2024 Byron Writers Festival. Tim is an award-winning author and journalist and multimedia storyteller, specialising in surfing history and culture. In this episode, Kaz and Tim discuss his recent book, 'Patting the Shark', which details Tim's journey with cancer. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Student Kaz sits down with author Rebecca Huntley at the 2024 Byron Writers Festival. Rebecca is a social trends researcher, with degrees in law, film studies and gender studies. They discuss her recently published book, 'Sassafras: A memoir of love, loss and MDMA therapy'. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Student Emily sits down with author Lynette Noni at the 2024 Byron Writers Festival. Lynette is an award-winning Young Adult and Fantasy author. Her works include 'The Prison Healer' series, 'The Medoran Chronicles' and the 'Whisper' duology. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Student Emily sits down with author Lili Wilkinson at the 2024 Byron Writers Festival. Lili is a young adult author who has published over 20 books, including 'A Hunger of Thorns', 'Deep is the Fen', and 'Bravepaw and the Heartstone of Alluria'. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Student River sits down with author Jodi Rogers at the 2024 Byron Writers Festival. Jodi is a sexologist, counsellor and special education teacher. She was also the relationship counsellor and TV series 'Love on the Spectrum'. She is the author of 'Unique: What autism can teach us about difference, connection and belonging'. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Student River sits down with author Isabelle Reinecke at the 2024 Byron Writers Festival. Isabelle is the Executive Director and Founder of Grata Fund, a not-for-profit organisation campaigning for human rights, climate action and democratic freedom. She is the author of 'Courting Power: Law, Democracy & The Public Interest in Australia'. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

A problem shared is a problem halved goes the old expression – but what about medical appointments? Could sharing your health consultation with others lead to better outcomes for chronic disease, especially in remote and regional Australia? Researchers at Southern Cross University are the first in Australia trialling the concept of Shared Medical Appointments, starting in remote communities with overwhelming success. Lead investigator, Associate Professor John Stevens, discusses this new mode of health appointments, the rise of lifestyle medicine and how all health practitioners can benefit. The musical introduction to this podcast is written and performed by Alako Myles.

How can farmers reduce waste while boosting their bottom line? This PRIMEX panel discussion features Southern Cross University lecturer Dr Owen Hogan, Business NSW Regional Director Jane Laverty and SEATA Co-Founder John Winter. Moderated by Southern Cross University's Professor Dirk Erler. The introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

How can farmers use regenerative principles to build resilient farms? This PRIMEX panel discussion features Southern Cross University lecturers Dr John Grant and Dr Helen McGregor, Ross Arnett from Malua Farm, and buffalo farmer Keiran Livermore. Moderated by Grow your Food Founder Phil Dudman. This is a recording of a panel discussion at PRIMEX Field Days 2024. The introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

What is a physiotherapist and how did they fit into the Australian healthcare system? Professor of Physiotherapy, Maria Constantinou, joined the SCU Buzz podcast to explain what physiotherapy is and the career outcomes of the new Bachelor of Physiotherapy, launching in 2025. Maria's career as a physiotherapist has taken her across the globe to major international sporting events where she has worked with Olympic and sporting greats. This podcast introduction was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Who was your favourite school teacher and what made them special? In this episode of SCU Buzz, Faculty of Education academic and researcher Dr Lana McCarthy and education student Blake share what qualities they believe make a good educator.

Strength, determination and resilience shines through for Olympian and open water swimmer, Moesha Johnson. After missing selection for Tokyo in 2021, Moesha shares the inspiring story of her journey to Paris, from changing squads to leaving Australia to train in Germany, leading to her silver medal in the Women’s 10km Marathon Swim. Moesha spoke on the SCU Buzz podcast about the determination that drives women to achieve their dreams, ahead of her presentation at the Gold Coast Women in Business Awards Gala Reception Breakfast on Friday 4 October 2024. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

How can nursing graduates expand their career potential? Nurse practitioner Rasa Kabaila spoke on the Vital Signs podcast about career pathways in mental health, becoming a nurse practitioner, and publishing her debut novel, 'Put some Concrete in your Breakfast: Tales from Contemporary Nursing'. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Nutrition is one of the most important factors in your overall health. Dietitian and Course Coordinator for the Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education and Management, Dr Emily Burch, breaks down dos and don'ts of our diets. From coffee intake to managing mental health, Dr Burch shares the simple science of eating healthy. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

How can alumni lead with purpose and authenticity? Hear the successes and challenges of Southern Cross University alumni at our inaugural Alumni Lunch Series. Panellists included Jules Allen, motivational speaker and youth advocate; Jonathan Freeman, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Club Active; Sharon Styman, Company Strategist and Deputy Chair, Twin Towns Club & Resorts; Professor David Heilpern (Moderator), former magistrate and Chair of Discipline (Law), Southern Cross University. This is a recording of a panel discussion. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Hidden in the narrow depths of a cave in Indonesia, researchers have discovered the oldest known evidence of storytelling in art. The painting of a hunting scene, located in the limestone cave of Leang Karampuang in the Maros-Pangkep region of South Sulawesi, portrays three human-like figures interacting with a wild pig. The cave art has been dated at over 51,000 years old. Expert in archaeogeochemistry, Professor Renaud Joannes-Boyau, discusses the process of dating ancient fossils and other exciting discoveries he has been involved in through his research at Southern Cross University. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

In 2024 Southern Cross University saw some significant rankings results. Esteemed broadcaster Angela Catterns sat down with Vice-Chancellor Professor Tyrone Carlin to understand more about the University's unique place in Australian tertiary education, and what the future might hold. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Can food waste become biodegradable plastic? Researchers at Southern Cross University, Dr Lachlan Yee and Dr Owen Hogan, are investigating if black soldier flies could be the key to reducing organic waste while creating a sustainable form of bioplastic. This project is part of the ZeroWaste Research Cluster. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

It is not through catching fish that a handwoven fishing net is nourishing people, but through connection to cultural practice, knowledge and community, according to Dr Kylie Day from the Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples, and Aimee Andersen from the Centre for Teaching and Learning. The pair spoke on SCU Buzz podcast about their research project into the sustainable construction of traditional fishing nets. 'Stories behind the fishing net – sitting with the Aunties' is a Community Engaged Research Project revitalising the cultural practice of string-making to construct a traditional fishing net. The project is funded by Southern Cross University’s Centre for Children and Young People. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

How can farmers ensure their practices form commercially viable agribusinesses? From circular economies and naturopathic medicine to making composting cool, a panel of industry experts share their knowledge on turning regenerative practices into profit. This panel was held at Primex Field Days and included the following speakers: Regional Director, Northern Rivers at Business NSW, Jane Laverty (moderator); Founding Director of Jagun Alliance Aboriginal Corporation, Oliver Costello; Owner of Honeyvale Farm, Jackie Morrison; Owner of Five Sixty Farms, Pepe Fassos; Foundation Director of Southern Cross University’s National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Professor Jon Wardle; Director of FreshChain Systems, Greg Calvert; Professor of Environmental Engineering at Southern Cross University, Professor Andrew Rose; and Regeneration Connection Expert in Residence, Saadi Allan. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles. Photo credit: Primex Field Days

Ensuring inclusive care for gender and sexually diverse people in residential aged care is the driving force behind a new research project led by Southern Cross University’s Professor Mark Hughes. Speaking on SCU Buzz podcast, Professor Hughes said the project aims to transform residential aged care. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

An expansive and rewarding career awaits health students in the field of public health, according to Professor Connie Evashwick, academic at San Diego State University School of Public Health. Professor Evashwick spoke on SCU Buzz podcast about the opportunities for students in the public health sector. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Artificial intelligence has transformed learning and the delivery of higher education. While many have feared and critiqued the incorporation of generative AI into teaching and assessment, Ruth Greenaway says we need to lean in. As the Director for the Centre of Teaching and Learning at Southern Cross University, she oversees the use of AI in the classroom. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Pillars of Performance: Combining Nutrition, Physiotherapy and Psychology is presented by Southern Cross University and the Gold Coast Marathon. Speakers include record-breaking runner and Gold Coast Marathon Ambassador Erchana Murray-Bartlett, Southern Cross University Chair of Health Sciences Dr Chris Stevens, Professor of Physiotherapy Dr Maria Constantinou, and Postdoctoral Research Fellow Dr Scott Goddard. This is a recording of a panel discussion aimed at helping runners prepare for the Gold Coast Marathon. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

With over 380 million tonnes of plastic being produced per year and 500 billion plastic bags in 2023 alone, its safe to say we’re in dire need of innovative solutions to our global waste problem. To begin to tackle the issue, Southern Cross University has a range of research projects underway. From implementing circular economy principles to using AI in waste management. Professor Dirk Erler and Professor Andrew Rose from the University’s Zero Waste research cluster join us for a special Earth Day edition of the SCU Buzz podcast. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Year 12 students are being encouraged to apply for Southern Cross University’s Early Offer program, which recently opened to 2025 applications. Education student and SCU Buzz host Blake sat down with Future Students Officer Jo to find out everything high school students need to know. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

How can students prepare for the workforce of the future? Course Coordinator of the Bachelor of Innovation with Honours at Southern Cross University, Dr Kerrie Stimpson, says innovative thinkers will have a critical advantage in an evolving world. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

For First Nations Peoples, humans are part of an interconnected system with the earth and its environments. Associate Professor at Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples, Kelly Menzel, spoke on SCU Buzz podcast about the importance of planetary health for all populations, supporting First Nations employees and studying a degree in Indigenous Knowledge. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.