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)

Subscribe or Follow Us: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS

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 ...