mere utterance.: Recent Episodes

Jess & Tara Djokibell

Everyone has a story - this is a widely held sentiment, yet all too often, when asked to speak about our own stories, the response is that we have nothing to say - or nothing worth sharing. There is a common misconception that in order to have something worth saying you need to have achieved some great form of accolade or overcome some great obstacle. This notion is what we want to challenge. Our host, Jessica Bellingham, is a storyteller and a seeker. With a professional background in literature and education, she is passionate about the connection between stories and growth - both at an individual and collective level. All of our lives are made up of sequences of small, defining moments. Sometimes these moments pass by unnoticed. Sometimes they shake us to our core, altering who we are, causing us to grow and change. Often, it is only awareness of these moments that truly allows for transformation from the inside out. Each of us has a story. Intricate, made up of seemingly insignificant things that nevertheless have the power to deeply resonate within the hearts of others. It is in the sharing of these stories that we connect with those around us, and evolve as a collective. This project is the pursual of these stories within ourselves, to offer others, in hopes of growing the whole.

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This week we welcome Dr Bonnie Teece to the podcast and discuss her amazing journey through school to university, and then to NASA. You can expect everything from learning Russian language and history to fostering inclusivity in STEM, and what it looks like to forge your own path. We hope you enjoy the story.

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This week we welcome the incredible Matt Davis (Diva Attenbra). By day, Matt is a biologist who is in the process of completing a PhD. By night, Matt transforms into Diva Attenbra, the Nigel Thornburry of drag. This episode we discuss the intersection between science and art, as well as the importance of diverse representation - both in science communication and in the queer community.

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Our guest this week, Dr Linda Mitchell, is a chemist, science communicator and passionate motivator. In our conversation, Linda takes us on a deep dive into the tyre recovery industry and expounds on the ways in which science can be used to contribute to a sustainable future. 

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This week we welcome Tash Mansour to the podcast and explore her journey through life as a person with a disability. She expounds upon her experience being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and brings a valuable voice to those who are often othered. Her wisdom, strength and insight leaves a lasting impression, and her story is one of encouragement and acceptance. 

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This week our guest is Amy Martin, the founder and executive producer of the Threshold podcast. Amy is a journalist and story seeker who travels the world, listening to people and weaving stories together on her podcast. During this interview, Amy talks about truly listening, and the power of being present.

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In this episode we chat with Melody and take a deep dive into faith, theatre and sexuality. We hear about the way in which these things have been explored and expressed throughout her life, and the lasting impact they have had on her personal formation. Melody also has a Podcast called You Know I which you can check out on Spotify.

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In this episode, we speak with Lachlan Hart who takes us on his journey through childhood all the way to parenthood. On this journey we explore how a grade A student turned into a punk rocker, and how a love of dinosaurs evolved into a career in palaeontology.

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This week we interview Bess, who shares deep insight on how popular culture and media has the capacity to impact identity. As Bess delves into her story, we hear all about ways to nurture self growth, what it means to tackle grief and how to heal. 

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Join us this week as the Mere Utterance creators Jess and Tara get behind the mic and reflect on the year gone past and what we can look forward to in 2023. ‘Utter Mutterings’ is a special episode of our reflections on the amazing guests we have interviewed and how they have impacted our lives. 

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In this episode, we sit down with Luke Steller and discuss all things from setting boundaries to developing identity and befriending the pain body. In this candid, exploratory conversation, Luke shares his insights and experiences around shame, setting realistic expectations and enjoying life in the moment.

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This week we chat with Bernie, who delves into the journey behind discovering who you are and what you want. In this candid, vulnerable and open conversation, Bernie shares the pivotal life events surrounding family expectations, moving out of home, cancer and finding love - that led to internal revelations of bravery, self awareness and seeking what you want over what you should do. 

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This week we converse with Greg Bellingham, who shares the wisdom of contemplation, ideas in context and asking big questions. Throughout this episode we discuss the many paths to discovering authentic self, and truth - not as a singular entity, but in the deepest sense of plurality. 

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Join us this week as we chat with Dr Isabelle Kingsley about her journey as a STEM educator, researcher and lifelong learner. Together we explore the shifting nature of labels and the limitless potential within all of us.

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This week, we talk with Max Mikha about everything from career changes and travelling abroad, to upcoming nuptials and discovering a sense of place as a first generation Australian.

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For our inaugural episode we sit down with Dr Yi-Ling Hwong to discuss crossing cultures (and seasons), serendipity and learning how to discover and live in accordance with your values.

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Welcome to mere utterance - the podcast where we explore small stories and the big impact they have on our lives.