JOY Drive

30 Jan 2025

Lauren Rosewarne: United States Deportations

News & Politics

Selena Gomez is no stranger to using her platform to speak out on important social issues, but her latest attempt has sparked intense debate. The singer and actress recently posted—and quickly deleted—a profoundly emotional video in which she broke down in tears over the mass deportation of Mexican immigrants under President Trump’s administration. The backlash was swift, with critics accusing her of being performative while supporters defended her for showing empathy and using her voice.

But beyond the controversy, this moment raises bigger questions: What role do celebrities play in political activism? Why are public figures so often criticised, no matter what they say or do? And what does this all reveal about the current political climate in the United States of America?

Guest: Lauren Rosewarne, Associate Professor in Public Policy, Social and Political Sciences at the University of Melbourne

Presenter: Warren Andrew

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 13:04 — 18.0MB)

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22 Feb 2026

Leo Stubbing: New Music from Hilary Duff , Leigh-Anne and Lana Del Rey

Music, Popular Culture

Hilary Duff is back with her first album in a decade, Leigh-Anne steps out independently with her solo debut, and ...

22 Feb 2026

Laureate Professor Clare Collins: Coffee and Blood Pressure

Diet and Nutrition, Health, Personal Safety, Popular Culture, Science & Medicine

Coffee can cause a short-term rise in blood pressure, yet large-scale research suggests it may not increase long-term hypertension risk ...

22 Feb 2026

Dr Jeremie Bracka: Victoria’s LGBTQIA+ Hate Crimes Inquiry

Government & Organisations, History, Law, LGBTIQA+ Community, News & Politics, Society & Culture

Victoria’s new inquiry into LGBTQIA+ hate crimes marks a significant moment for accountability and prevention. Dr Jeremie Bracka explains why ...