Towards Understanding
Towards Understanding
Towards Understanding is a full-length feature interview radio program hosted by Clayton Bjelan. The show contains a mix of interviews based around the understanding and living out of Christian faith and those just doing remarkable things in our world. It focuses on three key groups of people - The Known, The Overcomer and The Unknown. 89.9 | TheLight | PositiveMedia | LightFM | MelbourneSocial links:
Professor Henry Brodaty AO | Living Well with Dementia
Dementia affects hundreds of thousands of Australians and touches the lives of countless families, yet many misconceptions remain about what it is and how best to respond. Professor Henry Brodaty AO joins Clayton to discuss the latest understanding of dementia, the importance of early intervention,…
33:03
Gennelle Guzman-McMillan | The Last Survivor
As the world marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Clayton revisits his conversation with Gennelle Guzman-McMillan, the last known survivor to be rescued from the rubble of the World Trade Center. Trapped for more than 27 hours beneath the collapsed towers, Gennelle shares her ext…
11:46
Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks | Behind the World's Most Powerful Leaders
Who are the people trusted to advise presidents, prime ministers and global leaders? Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks joins Clayton to share insights from conversations with chiefs of staff to some of the world's most influential decision-makers, exploring leadership, influence, trust and what happens behin…
28:09
Rebecca Challoner - Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria
Many people experience rejection, but for some, even minor criticism or perceived disapproval can feel overwhelming. Rebecca Challoner joins Clayton to explore Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), discussing its impact on relationships, self-worth and everyday life, and how greater understanding ca…
29:40
Daniel Sih : Wise AI
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work, learn and live, but how do we use these powerful tools wisely? Daniel Sih joins Clayton to explore the opportunities and challenges of AI, the importance of human wisdom and discernment, and how we can embrace innovation without losing sight …
34:54
Vaneetha Rendall Risner | Walking with God through Divorce
What happens when life repeatedly takes turns you never wanted and never expected? Vaneetha Rendall Risner joins Clayton to share her journey through disability, grief, loss and an unwanted divorce, reflecting on how faith can survive even the most painful seasons. Together they explore disappointm…
36:55
Martyn Scrimshaw | Meeting People in Life's Defining Moments
Airports are places of reunions, farewells, celebrations and crises, where some of life's most significant moments unfold. Martyn Scrimshaw joins Clayton to share what years of chaplaincy at Melbourne Airport have taught him about people, resilience and the power of being present in moments of unce…
31:44
Nathan Holland | What We Can Learn from the Persecuted Church
One in seven Christians around the world experiences persecution for their faith, yet many Australian Christians know little about what life is like for believers living under pressure. Nathan Holland joins Clayton to explore the stories behind the 2026 World Watch List, including the growing chall…
28:09
Susan McLean | Growing Up Digital
The internet has opened up incredible opportunities for young people, but it has also introduced new challenges for parents and families. Susan McLean joins Clayton to discuss the realities of growing up in a digital world, exploring online safety, social media, cyberbullying and the practical step…
36:54
Ian Reilly | Culture, Context and Life Change
Sometimes the experiences that shape us most are the ones we never planned. Ian Reilly joins Clayton to reflect on how a teaching opportunity in Samoa transformed his understanding of culture, community and compassion, influencing the course of his life and career in ways he never expected. Togethe…
34:07