JOY Drive

19 Dec 2024

Stephanie Gomes-Ng: Superstitions

History, Mental Health, Philosophy, Popular Culture, Psychology, Social Sciences

Superstitions… we all know them, we all laugh about them, and yet, many of us secretly abide by them. From lucky socks to avoiding black cats, superstitions come in all shapes and sizes. We dive into the psychology behind these curious habits and why they persist, even in a modern, science-driven world.

Guest: Stephanie Gomes-Ng is a Senior Lecturer of Psychology at the Auckland University of Technology.

Presenter: Warren Andrew.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 9:48 — 13.5MB)

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26 Jan 2026

Associate Professor Lauren Rosewarne: Why We’re Pushing Back Against Perfect Faces

Fashion & Beauty, Popular Culture, Society & Culture

After years of smooth, interchangeable faces on screens, something is shifting. Associate Professor Lauren Rosewarne unpacks why expressive, readable faces ...

26 Jan 2026

Dr Dee Tomic: Work Participation, Inequality and Feeling Safe at Work

Careers, Psychology, Society & Culture

Work participation isn’t just about skills or effort; it’s shaped by whether workplaces feel safe, welcoming and secure. Dr Dee ...

26 Jan 2026

Nicole Rich: What Renters and Donors Need to Know After a Disaster

Consumer Affairs, Finance, Law, Personal Safety, Society & Culture

After bushfires and other disasters, everyday rules around renting, repairs and donations can quickly become unclear. Nicole Rich outlines renter ...