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In this episode of PlanningxChange, Jess Noonan and Peter Jewell speak with historian and writer Robyn Annear about cities, memory and the art of noticing. Robyn has written extensively about Melbourne, lost places, everyday life, archival fragments and the small details that open up larger stories. Her recent book Shutter City looks closely at early photographs of Melbourne, but the conversation ranges more widely across her work as a historian and writer. The discussion explores place-based history, the previous lives of cities and towns, and the question that sits behind much of Robyn’s work: what was here before? Robyn reflects on how photographs, newspapers, buildings, signs, shopfronts, street furniture and passing figures can reveal the ordinary rhythms of urban life, including work, trade, movement, amusement, language, humour and sociability. The episode also considers whether history has become a niche interest, how historical knowledge can help planners, architects and city managers resist generic “anywhere” urbanism, and how memory can survive even when buildings and places change. Robyn also discusses AI-generated versions of the past, the danger of confident but invented historical narratives, and why human curiosity and judgement remain central to historical understanding. In Podcast extra / culture corner, Robyn recommends the poetry of John Clare, Jess recommends Pete's children’s book 'Kaizo at Dog Beach' (soon to be released on Amazon), and Pete recommends the Korean drama Teach You a Lesson appearing on Netflix. Podcast released 29 July 2026.

In this episode of PlanningxChange, Jess Noonan and Peter Jewell speak with Maree Marshall from Urbis about waste, resource recovery and the city. Maree has worked in the waste and resource recovery sector for more than 25 years, advising councils, government agencies and designers on how waste systems operate in practice. The discussion begins with the ordinary household bin, but moves quickly into the larger planning and infrastructure questions behind waste collection, recycling and recovery. Topics include FOGO, glass recycling, container deposit schemes, textile waste, op shops, apartment buildings, transfer stations, repair spaces, tool libraries, landfill, waste-to-energy and the idea of local circular economy hubs. Marie explains why recycling is not the whole solution, and why better outcomes depend on reducing consumption, separating materials properly, designing buildings and precincts more intelligently, and making reuse and repair easier for communities. The conversation also considers how waste moves through cities, whether Australia relies too heavily on trucks, the role of technology and AI in sorting systems, and the importance of realistic policy that works for households, councils and the built environment. Podcast extra / culture corner includes home repairs, tuckpointing, the op shop challenge and Peter reading Virginia Woolf’s Mrs Dalloway. Episode released 1 July 2026.

Living Better for Longer: Blue Zones, Longevity and the Places We Create Guest: Marcus Pearce What do a small Greek island, a mountain village in Sardinia, and a Californian faith-based community have in common? They are among the world's famous Blue Zones - places where people routinely live into their nineties and hundreds, not because of miracle diets or expensive health interventions, but because of the way their communities are structured and how people live their everyday lives. In this episode, Peter Jewell and Jess Noonan speak with Marcus Pearce, longevity educator, host of the 100 Not Outpodcast, and founder of wellbeing experiences to Blue Zone communities. Marcus shares his personal journey from sports journalist to one of Australia's leading voices on healthy ageing and wellbeing. The conversation explores what planners, designers and policymakers can learn from places where longevity is not the exception but the norm. In this episode we discuss: * What Blue Zones are and how they were identified * The six recognised Blue Zones, including the recent addition of Singapore * Marcus's personal transformation from sports media to longevity advocacy * Why attitudes towards ageing can significantly influence lifespan * The role of social connection, purpose and community in healthy ageing * What makes places such as Ikaria (Greece) and Sardinia (Italy) unique * The importance of walkability and natural movement in daily life * Why loneliness may be one of the greatest public health challenges of our time * The relationship between urban design, wellbeing and longevity * How modern technology and changing work patterns may be weakening social connections * Lessons planners can draw from village-scale living and human-centred environments * Whether Blue Zone principles can be applied in contemporary cities Marcus also reflects on the concept of an "ageing mentor" - someone whose approach to life and ageing inspires us to think differently about our own future. Key Takeaway The most powerful lesson from the Blue Zones may be that healthy ageing is less about individual optimisation and more about creating places where connection, movement, purpose and belonging occur naturally. In other words, the environment often shapes healthier behaviours without people consciously trying to pursue them. Guest Marcus Pearce
Host of the 100 Not Out podcast and founder of Blue Zone-inspired wellbeing experiences. Marcus has spent more than a decade interviewing centenarians, longevity experts and wellbeing leaders, helping people rethink what it means to live a long and meaningful life. Podcast Extra In Culture Corner: * Marcus reflects on David Attenborough's remarkable longevity and asks: Who is your ageing mentor? * Jess discusses The Mushroom Tapes by Helen Garner, Sarah Krasnostein and Claire Hooper. * Peter talks about rediscovering fountain pens following a recent trip to Japan. Podcast released 29 May 2026.

This episode explores spogomi, the Japanese-born idea that reimagines litter collection as a competitive, team-based sport, transforming one of the least appealing aspects of urban life into something energetic, social, and unexpectedly joyful. We are joined by Masanori (Max) Tamazawa and Kazuhiro (Hiro) Yagasaki of the Spogomi Institute, who trace the evolution of spogomi from a local response to everyday urban waste into a global movement. What began as a way to address litter in Japanese cities has become a structured sport, where teams collect, sort, and score waste within a defined time and place, shifting behaviour from obligation to participation. That shift is powerful. Spogomi reframes public space. The overlooked, the discarded, the “back of house” of the city becomes a site of play, collaboration, and shared purpose. It suggests a different way of engaging with urban environments, where care, competition, and community overlap, and where something unattractive is reshaped into a fun, collective expression. The movement has scaled rapidly. The first Spogomi World Cup in Tokyo in 2023 brought together teams from 21 countries, while the 2025 World Cup expanded to more than 30 countries, reflecting its growing global reach and appeal. How can urban managers and promoters harness this new sport to create better civic places? What lessons can be learnt from the experiences so far. Max and Hiro explain the motivation of its creator, how the sport was created, how it plays out and the expressions it takes on in different cultures. A truly wonderful export from Japan. There are many videos of the sport on Instragram and YouTube see for example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLNooXSOK0I and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XA3qOiXxsNg. More on spogomi at https://en.nf-spogomiwc.com The spogomi website is currently being updated. When complete we will add. Podcast released 4 May 2026.

In this episode of PlanningxChange, Jess Noonan and Peter Jewell are joined by Jared Jones, founder of Middle Housing Partners (https://middlehousingpartners.com) in California, to explore the growing challenge of delivering housing within established neighbourhoods. The conversation begins with a striking observation: in parts of California, access to home ownership is increasingly shaped by inheritance rather than income. From this starting point, the discussion turns to the question facing many cities - how can housing supply increase when established areas remain largely unchanged? Jared outlines his work delivering what is often described as “middle housing” - small-scale, incremental projects such as duplexes, triplexes and accessory dwellings that sit within existing suburban fabric. These projects, sometimes referred to as “quiet density,” offer a way to add housing without large-scale redevelopment, but are not without their challenges. The episode explores the practical realities of this model, including planning controls, approval pathways, infrastructure constraints and the cumulative impact of fees and delays. It also considers the broader implications of housing scarcity, not only in terms of affordability, but for community life, labour mobility and the functioning of cities. Drawing on experience from California, the discussion reflects on what lessons may be relevant across different planning contexts, particularly the role of state-led reform, the balance between local discretion and more consistent, rules-based approaches, and how small-scale housing can be enabled within established neighbourhoods. An interesting discussion with a housing creator who has learnt the gritty way by doing and perseverance. Jared has many insights including a message of respect for those in the assessment role is also most welcome. Episode released on 6 April 2026.

Jess and Pete talk about the year ahead and current planning topics. Episode released 28 February 2026.

Driverless and autonomous vehicles are moving steadily from concept to reality, raising important questions for cities, streets and planning systems. While the technology is often framed as a transport or engineering issue, its impacts are likely to be felt far more broadly — shaping travel behaviour, land use, and the way urban space is organised. In this episode of PlanningxChange, hosts Cam Alderson and Jess Noonan are joined by Cern Basher to explore what autonomous vehicles could mean in practice. The discussion focuses on the economic and systemic forces behind driverless cars, rather than technological hype, and considers how cost, scale and incentives may influence how — and where — autonomy is adopted. The conversation examines potential implications for parking, congestion, public transport and equity, as well as the risk of unintended consequences such as increased travel demand. Rather than assuming a single future outcome, the episode highlights the uncertainty planners must work within as new technologies emerge. This episode also marks PlanningxChange’s first video release, alongside the regular audio format, and introduces a new hosting arrangement — continuing the podcast’s tradition of practical, practitioner-focused discussion about the forces shaping planning and cities. Episode released 26 January 2026.

In this episode of PlanningxChange, Jess and Peter speak with Mary Reilly, a planner and educator with deep experience in rural land-use issues. Mary helps us unpack the widely discussed Old Mission case from Michigan - a dispute between wineries and a township over land-use controls that resulted in a major federal damages award (approx $50m US). The discussion does not explore the legal merits or the ongoing appeal; instead, it uses the case to illuminate broader lessons for planners everywhere. Mary reflects on how agricultural areas are changing, how councils manage risk, and how planning systems can better balance rural preservation with economic adaptation. She also draws on her teaching experience to explain how real cases help future planners understand complexity, conflict, and the value of clear decision-making. Five Key Themes We Explore 1. What the Old Mission case reveals about zoning and regulation Mary outlines how restrictive controls can create tension when agricultural enterprises diversify into tastings, events, weddings and food service — activities that increasingly blur the line between “farm” and “commercial.” 2. Balancing preservation with economic survival Many farms depend on supplementary income. Mary discusses how planners can support this economic reality while still protecting landscape character, amenity and long-standing rural values. 3. Managing risk for councils and planners A large damages award raises questions about insurance coverage and liability. Mary talks about how planners can help councils navigate uncertainty through clearer drafting, transparent process and sound policy grounding. 4. The unique pressures on small rural municipalities Old Mission, like many small townships, has limited planning resources. Mary explores how smaller councils can respond to complex disputes and why early community engagement can prevent escalation. 5. Lessons for planning education and practice Drawing on her academic work, Mary explains how real planning conflicts — like Old Mission — help students and practitioners think critically about regulation, equity, and the evolving expectations placed on rural land. Podcast Extra / Culture Corner Mary recommends Zoned in the USA by Sonia Hirt (https://www.cornellpress.cornell.edu/book/9780801479878/zoned-in-the-usa/#bookTabs=1) and ‘Paris Tea’. Jess recommends going off-line and embracing being bored. Pete recommends furniture beeswax (https://gillysaustralia.com.au) and maintaining the things around you. Episode released 27 November 2025.

In this episode, PlanningxChange travels to Vietnam to speak with Olivier Souquet, French architect and co-founder of DE-SO Asia, a Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)-based design studio renowned for projects that weave together climate, culture, and poetic sensibility. Since establishing DE-SO Asia in 2016, Olivier has guided a diverse body of work across Vietnam—from rural schools and urban housing to major civic and cultural landmarks, including the new City Planning Exhibition Center in Ho Chi Minh City. His practice embraces both rigorous environmental awareness and a deep respect for local materials, topography, and traditions. Olivier discusses his architectural philosophy—shaped by influences such as Édouard Glissant’s call to “act in your place, think with the world”—and the realities of designing in Vietnam’s tropical context, where rain, heat, and humidity shape the rhythm of daily work. He reflects on building responsibly in a time of ecological change, how poetic gestures sustain creativity, and why uncertainty (“Au Vietnam, rien n’est jamais sûr”) is part of the country’s charm and challenge. This is a conversation about architecture as adaptation, empathy, and imagination—rooted in place yet globally aware. Key Topics * Origins and philosophy of DE-SO Asia * Practicing architecture across French and Vietnamese cultures * The Family Garden studio: daily rituals, nature, and community * Designing the Ho Chi Minh City Planning Exhibition Center * Balancing civic responsibility with poetic intent * The evolving discourse: “Is it still moral to build?” * Advice for young architects and reflections on VietnamDE-DE-SO)’s creative energy About DE-SO Asia Founded in 2016 by Olivier Souquet, DE-SO Asia is a Vietnamese architectural and planning firm working at all scales—from regional masterplans to public buildings and landscapes. The firm collaborates with public authorities, private investors, and international partners, and is recognised for its environmentally conscious, site-responsive designs grounded in local knowledge and craftsmanship.
🌐 de-so.asia Culture Corner/Podcast Extra Olivier recommends the 1961 French classic film ‘Last Year at Marienbad’ directed by Alain Resnais (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Last_Year_at_Marienbad) and the works of Ridley Scott in particular Blade Runner and Inception and the music of Hans Zimmer www.Hans-zimmer.com. Jess talks of returning to playing the violin; Pete talks of a 2000km road trip travellinbg north through rural Australia and the delights with the countryside, small towns and farming districts. Episode released 5 November 2025.

In this episode of PlanningxChange, Jess and Peter speak with Daniel Gannon, Executive Director of the Retirement Living Council of Australia.
Daniel brings nearly two decades of experience across advocacy, public policy, and media, including eight years leading the Property Council in South Australia, where he played a key role in landmark tax reforms that strengthened the state’s investment landscape. Now at the helm of the Retirement Living Council, Daniel is championing policies to meet the needs of Australia’s rapidly ageing population and to promote age-friendly communities across the nation. He shares his insights into the future of retirement living—from debunking common misconceptions to exploring design, affordability, and the social and health benefits of village life. The conversation also tackles industry challenges: regulatory complexity, barriers to new supply, and how governments can better support this essential housing sector. Daniel discusses global and local innovations shaping the next decade of retirement living, the “silver tsunami” of demographic change, and why the right kind of housing can unlock new opportunities across Australia’s property market. In the Podcast Extra / Culture Corner, Daniel recommends ‘Your exceptional life’ by Marcus Pearce https://marcuspearce.com.au. Jess recommends a podcast ‘Dr Emily - The Risk of Avoiding Risk’ by the Imperfects’ https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dr-emily-the-risk-of-avoiding-risk/id1476501557?i=1000656075537 Pete flags a forthcoming book he will publish ‘Kaizo at Dog Beach’ aimed at 3 - 7 year olds. Episode released 14 October 2025. (Japan National Train Day & Izzy’s birthday)

In this episode of Planningxchange, Jess Noonan and Peter Jewell are joined by Stephen Turner, founder of TS Japan Rail a well respected commentator on Japanese rail travel. Stephen has lived in Japan since the early 1990s and has featured on NHK World’s Japan Railway Journal and Japanology Plus. Through his work, he helps visitors craft memorable journeys across both Japan’s famous Shinkansen network and its lesser-known regional lines. Together we explore: * Why Japan’s railways are unique – from punctuality down to the second to a culture of courtesy and order onboard. * The role of private rail companies such as Tokyu and Hankyu in shaping entire suburbs through transit-oriented development. * Rail etiquette and staff culture – women-only carriages, the quiet of commuter trains, and the formality of conductors bowing to passengers. * Railway fandom and culture – from timetable collectors to station melody enthusiasts, and even mention of the 1900's Railway Songs by Owada Takeki (tetsudo shoka). * Rural and third-sector lines – the challenges of depopulation, the fight to sustain local connections, and the role of tourism in keeping them alive. * What the future holds – labour shortages, financial pressures, and whether Japan’s model can inspire other countries. Stephen’s insights open a window onto railways as more than just transport—they are a cultural institution, an engine of urban form, and a source of national pride. Tune in to hear how the Japanese system blends planning, culture, and innovation, and what lessons it might hold for cities and regions across the world. In Podcast Extra/Culture Corner Stephen recommends travelling the rural train lines of Japan. Jess notes the relaxing nature of gardening and the book ‘Abundance’ by. Ezra Klein. Pete recommends the book ‘I Want Everything’ by Dominic Amerena. Podcast episode released on 14 September 2025.

In this episode of PlanningXchange (PX134), we sit down with Dr Cameron McAuliffe, Senior Lecturer in Human Geography & Urban Studies at Western Sydney University. Cameron has written widely on the cultural politics of graffiti and street art, and has advised public authorities on how cities can approach the governance of these highly visible—and often contested—forms of expression. Our conversation explores: * The social meaning of graffiti in contemporary cities * How governments attempt to balance regulation, creativity, and community values * The role of planning and urban management in shaping the street art landscape * International perspectives on graffiti and what Sydney’s experience can teach other cities Cameron offers both scholarly insight and practical reflections from his advisory work with councils and state agencies. For planners, urban designers, and anyone interested in the cultural life of cities, this episode sheds light on a subject that provokes strong reactions but also opens up new ways of thinking about public space. In Podcast extra / Culture corner Cameron recommends the Vivid Festival in Sydney, a celebration of light, music, and creative culture that transforms the city each year. Jess is diving into the global hit Squid Game, reflecting on its social themes and powerful storytelling; whilst Pete recommends George Orwell’s Coming Up for Air, available as audiobook on YouTube or in book form Podcast released: 18 August 2025

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 – Wikipedia – and the documentary Maya and the Wave – mayaandthewave.com. * 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

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. https://www.netflix.com/au/title/81712178 Pete recommends investing in a pair of Stihl chainsaw chaps for serious chainsaw safety.https://shop.stihl.com.au/function-core-270-chaps Podcast released 26 June 2025

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 icicle.osu.edudpla.wisc.edu. For more information and to explore the toolkit, visit farm2facts.org icicle.osu.edu In Podcast Extra, Alfonso recommends ‘The Cadfael Chronicles’ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Cadfael_Chronicles. Edna recommends ‘Conclave’ the film https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conclave_(film) Jess recommends ‘Alone Australia’ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alone_Australia. Pete recommends ‘Bullet Train Explosion’ https://www.netflix.com/au/title/81629968 Podcast episode released 26 May 2025.