Life Journey TV : Recent Episodes
Kelly Shann
Life Journey TV is a podcast that helps people find inspiration, motivation and courage in their lives through listening to the lived experiences of others. Kelly interviews inspirational Australian's who generously share their truth and honesty in order to help others find their happiness.
Bruce Breslau’s refreshing and sincere perspective on life is inspiring and thought-provoking.
His diverse experience spanning the media industry to law and the many things he has accomplished in between, has positioned him well to offer unique, thoughtful and insightful perspectives on life.
Bruce is a master storyteller and someone who places great importance on giving back to his community.
I hope you find as many ‘pearls of wisdom’ throughout our chat as I did.
Imagine, as a parent, your 14-year-old son tells you he wants to move more than 10,000kms away to a country so foreign, its difficult for you to even picture it.
Rugare Gomo’s parents though, took it in their stride, embracing their son’s dream and helping him turn it into a reality. They had taught their children the value of living boldly, being true to themselves and leading their lives with faith, integrity and kindness.
When Rugare found himself in Australia two years later, he faced difficulties unfamiliar to those he had encountered in his Zimbabwean home.
With strength and determination, he conquered every challenge that came his way and credits these challenges to the man he is today.
I hope you enjoy Rugare’s inspiring story.
Karen Brook is exceptionally well-positioned to deliver the inspiring material she offers through her coaching programs.
Mentored by the late Bob Proctor, Karen leads a life driven by a passion for serving others and possesses the expertise to teach her clients how to live a fulfilling and extraordinary life.
It hasn’t always been easy for her - far from it in fact - but with tenacity and her life’s philosophy, she has overcome personal challenges with grace and determination.
During our conversation, Karen shared her insight about growing up in Birdsville and the path that led her to where she is today.
I knew this conversation would be particularly inspiring and I wasn't disappointed.
This Anzac Day, I'd like to share the reading of a letter written to Miss Rose Harris of Clermont, from her friend Elsie Grant.
The letter was written from France in 1917.
Their words echo through history, to remind us of the enduring bonds of friendship during the harsh realities of war.
We honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served and continue to serve our nation.
Lest we forget.
Do It for Dolly Day is almost upon us once again.
Tick, Kate and Meg’s determination to build a better world in Dolly’s honour, never fails to amaze and inspire me.
This year’s campaign is firmly centred around Dolly’s own words….’Speak even if your voice shakes’. The Everett’s hope these words will always remain a beacon of hope, courage, and strength for anyone experiencing bullying.
Let’s help them break the silence through education, inspiration and the power of shared experiences. Register a fundraiser or donate to Dolly’s Dream Australia and help bring more resources to fruition, expand the reach of the 24/7 support line and give thousands of young Australians the confidence to find their own voices.
Oh… and always remember to be KIND!
The 9th of August 2002 changed our family forever.
This was the day our beautiful sister-in-law Gayle became caught in the PTO shaft of a post-hole digger while building their garden fence with her husband Mac.
22 years on and both Mac and Gayle continue to amaze their family and friends with their incredible resilience, tenacity, grace and kindness.
They have both worked very hard – harder than most when you understand the processes they go through even before they start their day.
To say they are inspirational is an understatement and something they don’t particularly see – they’re too busy getting on with their lives.
There is certainly no time to look back to wonder why the accident had to happen and there are certainly no excuses in this camp.
As family, we are all so proud of them both. I’m particularly grateful to Gayle for sitting down with me to share her story.
Thank you too, to Bec Fing and Heidi Smith, the power behind ‘RISE’ for so graciously supporting our interview.
I hope you enjoy hearing from this amazing woman.
Jonnie Larmore’s story is as fascinating as it is traumatic.
Jonnie was born into a cult called ‘The Children of God’ or ‘The Family International’, as it later became known.
While its origins in 1968 were relatively conservative, under evangelist David Berg’s leadership it quickly grew into an authoritarian cult engaging in the physical and sexual abuse of its children.
At one point, ‘The Family’ had more than 30,000 followers across the world including the Phoenix family and Jeremy Spencer of Fleetwood Mac fame.
Rates of drug addiction and suicide are well-known in children who grow up in cults.
Jonnie however, has been able to move past his early childhood trauma to make a success of his life.
Up until recently, he was an active member of the Special Emergency Response Team. SERT is the highly secretive police team which protect the public against everything from terrorism threats to sieges and hostage situations.
Having met Jonnie, I know we are in safe hands!
Many thanks to my sponsor for this interview, Bennett and Co Financial.
‘Everything is possible’.
This is the motto my guest today lives his life by. He is easily one of the most inspirational men I have had the pleasure of chatting with.
Perry Cross has a unique gift to motivate people through his words, his actions, and his humour. He is certainly no ordinary man.
With a string of awards to his name, he is known worldwide as a role model for the human spirit overcoming the odds.
His organisation, ‘The Perry Cross Foundation’, is on the cusp of finding a cure for paralysis.
After our interview, I was filled with a tremendous sense of power, feeling like I could achieve anything. This is what Perry does for you.
I hope you enjoy the story of Perry’s incredible life.
If you like this interview - subscribe to my channel!
Its free, and will help me keep bringing inspiring stories to you!
When we visited Fiji last year, I found the stray animal population confronting.
While we were on the way to our beautiful resort, I googled 'animal shelters', to see if someone was helping these poor, sorry strays and came upon 'Animals Fiji'.
Animals Fiji is a very well-respected shelter which, under the expert care of its founder, Casey Quimby, not only takes care of stray animals, but also provides animal welfare education to people, and veterinary care to animals in need.
I hope you enjoy hearing Casey's story and will feel moved to support the shelter, who rely solely on donations and the kindness of people like you.
Their website has a sponsor button which makes it easy to support an animal in need that otherwise has no hope.
https://www.animalsfiji.org/
WARNING: Have running shoes at the ready - you are going to want to hit the track after you've heard this story!
I've wanted to share a weight loss story for quite a while but finding the right person hasn't been easy.....until now.
It has taken Margaret Olive some time to get to where she is today on a road beset with setbacks and disappointment. Hearing her story though, which is brutally honest but filled with humour and acceptance, is inspiring and one which proves you should never, ever give up.
I am so grateful to Marg for sharing her struggles and triumphs with me.
She feels if her experiences can help just one person, her job is complete! I think she will help many more.
What a woman!
To listen to Margaret's story click on the link below or listen on your favourite podcast platform.
In the middle of the dusty, basalt plains of Central Queensland lies something quite extraordinary.
Reaching the homestead complex at “Glen Elgin”, you would be forgiven for thinking you had been transported magically, to a faraway region where flowers grow in abundance and are tended to with love and dedication by their owners.
That love and dedication, (along with trying something new!) is evident through Anna Nicholson’s passion for the flower farm she has created alongside her husband Gill.
Amongst their already busy lives on a remote cattle and grain property, the Nicholson family has created a niche business supplying flowers to local events and homes throughout the area.
Anna's story will be sure to inspire you to ‘think outside the box’ and to make the most of life, wherever you may live!
Losing a child is a devastating experience to go through under any circumstance and at any age.
When that child has taken their own life however, the loss is magnified as family question even more deeply, the ‘why’.
This was certainly the case for the Stuart family.
Searching to give some meaning to his son’s death, Scott Stuart wanted to give back. His goal has been to create awareness around suicide and the importance of talking to someone if you’re struggling.
Scott believes if he can prevent just one more family going through what his has experienced, then his goal is complete.
With friends and family in tow, Scotty and his mates set out on a double crossing of the Simpson Desert on motorbikes whilst raising funds for the RFDS and Lifeline.
Their journey had many challenges, disappointments, and triumphs.
I hope you enjoy hearing about ‘Ride for Warrick’ and the adventures the crew had. Scott is truly a remarkable Dad!
I consider my guest this week to be the Wayne Bennett of the horse world.
Behind his stern exterior, lies a man who is deeply passionate about his family, his students, and of course his beloved horses. He is kind, understanding and there lurks within a wicked sense of humour.
John Arnold is a humble man who does not appreciate the accolades he is so deserving of.
When asked about his greatest achievements – they of course are not about his successes, but those of the many people he has mentored within the horse industry.
Past students I spoke with before I sat down with John, regard him as a father figure and someone whom they have deep respect and admiration for.
If I had to put into a few words what I think of John, those words would be that he is a good man.
MENOPAUSE……..the word alone is enough to make men shake in their boots and women to break out in a hot flush!
My guest this week is Dr Kelly Teagle founder of Wellfemme, her telehealth clinic which specialises in menopause.
Through Wellfemme, Dr Teagle and her team, support women through what can often be a challenging time.
With individual attention and effective, sound advice and treatment, Dr Teagle’s passion is to support women, particularly those living in remote and regional Australia who may not otherwise have access to much-needed care.
For me, I feel this is a topic we need to talk about more to create a better understanding both for ourselves and our families. A bit like the ‘birds and the bees’ for over 40’s!
Once you set your mind to something, everything is possible!
As a thirteen-year-old holidaying in Fiji with his family, Australian boy Jay Whyte had no idea the tremendous impact he would one day have on the lives of the Fijian people.
Jay owns and operates the multi-award-winning Sigatoka River Safari.
What began as a small idea and a deep connection with Fiji, Jay is helping the economies of remote villages and their people whilst giving tourists an unforgettable experience.
I recently caught up with Jay who shares the love he has for his adopted country and her people.
When Susie Williams and her family went on a holiday to Fiji, they didn't expect to fall in love with a stray kitten.
Lucky though for 'Natty' (the cat from Natadola Beach), they did, and she now looks forward to arriving in Australia and a brand new life with her adopted family.
I hope you enjoy this hearing this story as much as I did!
Following the birth of their baby boy, Mark and Anna Dombkins had an overwhelming desire to add to their family by adopting a child who would never otherwise have the opportunity to be part of a loving family.
The Dombkins moved to Tanzania to fulfill their dream with by this stage, two babies in tow.
Seemingly never doing things by halves, Mark and Anna adopted not one but three siblings, suddenly bringing their family of four, to a family of seven.
On their return to Australia a couple of years later with five small children, Mark and Anna added another biological child to the fold and their family was complete.
Not content to leave things there however, the Dombkins began 'Forever Projects', which assists families in Tanzania to become self-sustaining allowing them to break the chain of extreme poverty and to provide for their own families.
My guests this week could live by two old sayings –
‘from little things big things grow’ and ‘every cloud has a silver lining’.
When Felicity Burton and Georgie Keats (along with Georgie’s mum Belinda), watched their friends from regional Queensland experience a particularly challenging time with their little family, they watched on helplessly wondering how they could help ease the burden.
Both Felicity and the Keats family have had their own distressing times. They fully appreciate how difficult it is for regional families to suddenly pack up and spend months away in cities undergoing medical care.
These three women came up with the idea of buying a house in Toowoomba which could become a home away from home for families needing that care and so the Common Ground Foundation was born.
This coming week, there is an amazing fundraiser at Bracknell Lodge near Toowoomba for the foundation – Ride for a Roof.
I recently caught up with Georgie and Felicity who share their dream for the Common Ground.
Australian journalist, radio host, television presenter and rugby league coach.
These are just a few of the hats Rob Brough has worn during a career that spans 40 years.
I first met Rob in the late 1990’s and was struck by his humility and kindness.
Rob has had times of immense sadness in life which has instilled in him much wisdom and courage.
I hope you enjoy hearing from this remarkable man as he shares tales from his childhood through to his distinguished media career.
As Dolly’s Dream gathers momentum with each passing year, so too does the resolve of Tick, Kate and Meg Everett, to make the world a kinder place in honour of their daughter and sister Dolly.
In my chat with Kate this year, she shares what it is like during the lead up to Do It For Dolly Day for her family and the tremendous support they receive from so many people and just what that means for the charity.
We also talk about the marathon Kate took part in recently and how much that has helped her.
Kate has recently been named in the top 100 Most Powerful Women in the Northern Territory – it is easy to see why.
Many thanks to my sponsor for this episode – Fitton Insurance Brokers Australia
When Queensland grazier Wallace Gunthorpe worked through a succession plan with his family, he found himself at a loose end.
Rather than slip into retirement life spending his days playing golf, a trip to Vietnam led him into Cambodia where he heard about this Aussie bloke who was helping the Cambodian people through a ‘cow bank’.
On his return to Australia, Wallace contacted that bloke - Cosi Costello, with an offer to help him with Cows for Cambodia and the rest as they say, is history.
Wallace has become an integral part of Cows for Cambodia and I recently caught up with him to find out the part he plays in this amazing charity.
Many thanks to Kennedy Livestock for their support in bringing you this interview.
When Cosi Costello first visited Cambodia with a mate seven years ago, he fell in love with the Cambodian people.
From that initial visit, Cosi began Cows for Cambodia, a ‘cow bank’, to support families and help them break the poverty cycle.
Cosi has done so much for the people of Cambodia and has watched his charity go from strength to strength, now having branched into Botswana.
To support Cows for Cambodia, head to Cosi’s facebook page or www.cowsforcambodia.com
Many thanks to Kennedy Livestock for bringing this interview to you.
This year for Anzac Day, I invite you to watch my interview from last year with Sergeant Tim Hibberd.
Sergeant Hibberd shared with me, stories of his time in Afghanistan and what Anzac Day means to those who have returned from service.
Lest we forget.
"He was solution driven. The problem was just a small part of the equation", Tory Acton.
Graeme Acton was a monumental man. He was a force to be reckoned with and one of the most influential figures in the cattle industry of our time.
He had the ears of policymakers and great hope for the future of the beef industry.
I remember when we heard the news that Graeme had been seriously injured in a campdrafting accident.
The magnitude of his passing sent a tsunami of disbelief and sorrow which spread from the halls of Parliament House to the dustiest of paddocks in remote Australia - the part he loved the best.
Graeme's business life and accolades have been well-documented but what was he like as a person and what did he most value throughout his life?
Join me, in this very special interview, as I hear from Graeme's family who share with me the story of a husband and father.
Many thanks to Stabler and Howlett Veterinary Surgeons for bringing this interview to you.
From dabbling in a little bit of art at school to becoming one of Australia's foremost bronze sculptors, Kay Paton's journey has not been easy.
Kay is proof that if you stick with something even when the going gets tough, you will succeed.
A strong mentor who has an unwavering belief in you doesn't go astray either!
Join me as Kay shares her story of becoming a master in her craft.
'An impressive human being', 'an incredibly positive, loving vibe' - these are just some of the words others use to describe my guest this week.
Lynda McCallum's brave story has touched many who know her and I am humbled she has allowed me to share her journey here.
Following her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and with the understanding and support of her husband Jim, Lynda competed in the 2018 NCHA Cutting Futurity placing second in Australia's largest Cutting event (for those of you who don't know about cutting horses, it's a pretty big deal!).
In our interview, we chat about the tools she used to put herself in that winning mindset when everything seemed to be against her. Her tenacity and motivation can be applied to anyone wanting to excel in whatever endeavor they set their mind to.
Then we delve into what its like living with MS, her fears and let-downs along with some remarkable coincidences and her hopes for the future.
Join me to hear my chat with Phoebe Penny about her amazing Namibia adventures!
I first met Phoebe when she came to us on work experience from Emerald Pastoral College (when it existed) about 12 years ago.
Her infectious nature, adventurous spirit and happy attitude was a hint of things to come for Phoebe and I wasn't surprised when she set off for the wilds of Namibia to join the Namibia Horse Safari Company.
I have loved following Phoebe's adventures on Facebook and equally, hearing first hand from her about her African experience and I hope you will too!
In her unforgettable memoir, Four Perfect Pebbles, Marion Blumenthal Lazan recalls the horror of the holocaust through her nine-year-old eyes when she and her family were sent to a concentration camp.
It is her mission, that in teaching the lessons of the past, future generations may look forward to peace and understanding in the world.
Her story portrays the resilience of the human spirit, and her experience is proof that we can endure far more than we think we are capable of.
Marion has lived a life full of great love, and it is her greatest wish that we all learn to live with respect, understanding and tolerance of our fellow humans.
Sarah Hayles grew up on a Central Qld cattle property.
After finishing school Sarah found herself working in the mining industry and while there, studied Engineering, proving that once you set your mind to something, everything is possible.
11 years ago however, Sarah began having a problem with one of her eyes and to this day, doctors are still unable to tell her what is wrong.
Sarah shares her courageous story with me - the doubts she has had in her life, her journey into motherhood and tells me about her very successful on-line business and podcast.
Its hard to believe a whole year has passed since Movember 2020 when I first chatted with Dr Sanjeev Bandi and that we are again seeing moustaches on men everywhere.
I thought it timely to chat with Dr Bandi again who is somewhat of a celebrity within Movember circles.
Since 2008, Dr Bandi has individually raised close to $500,000 to support men’s health throughout Australia. His fundraising efforts continue this year along with his team the ‘MOV-ing Mackay Cricket Club’.
Movember supports men’s mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer globally.
One of the beneficiaries of Zara’s Day is the Steve Waugh Foundation.
Whilst little Zara wasn’t here for long enough to access the wonderful support from the organisation, her family wanted to ensure others living with Rare Syndromes were able to access the amazing community that is the Steve Waugh Foundation.
I caught up with Steve to find out what the generosity of the Boshammer family means to so many families, and to him personally.
For all the cricket fans I did manage one cricket question!
In this very special interview, Kate Boshammer shares her family’s story and the journey they have travelled with their baby girl, Zara.
Zara was born with a rare chromosomal condition called Pallister Killian Syndrome and at almost seven months, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family.
“Our beautiful baby Zara was with us for nearly seven months, and we hold a deep gratitude for the blessings she brought to our lives,” says Kate.
Kate’s courage, love and resilience will astonish you as she shares with me the precious time Justin, Kate and Theo spent with Zara.
Following her passing, Justin and Kate organised ‘Zara’s Day’. They raised an incredible $150,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Queensland and the Steve Waugh Foundation (SWF supports children and young people living with rare conditions). They also funded two high-flow oxygen facilities for their local hospital.
This year, the family have chosen to once again host Zara’s Day and are currently running an on-line raffle for the RFDS (QLD).
Friday, October 29th is officially Zara’s Day, and an online auction will commence with funds again supporting the Steve Waugh Foundation.
To assist the Boshammer family and their incredible legacy to Zara, head to
https://zarasday.com.au/
You can also follow Zara’s Day on Facebook and Instagram.
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the QLD Government for bringing this interview to you.
Edwina Robertson is most well known as the Queen of the Dust through her successful photography business, but as I found out when I recently caught up with her, Edwina is one person with a lot going on!
From her ‘accidental’ rise to photographer fame, to her recent expedition climbing Mt Kosciusko in her swimmers (yes you did read that correctly…..and it was winter), Edwina is as inspiring as she is brave.
I really enjoyed my chat with Edwina and I hope you do too!
Marie Kondo, the Japanese organising consultant, has sparked a wave of declutterers, willing to come into your home and help you reorganise your belongings.
They say the benefits of having a good clean-up and clean-out, can reduce stress and anxiety while at the same time boosting your energy, creativity and efficiency.
For Jess Gimm, this has been a huge step in helping her regain control in her life and overcoming her own mental health problems.
Jess now helps others do the same thing through her business 'Managed Mayhem'. She loves nothing more than helping her clients find a sense of achievement when their home and office is uncluttered and organised.
Jess explains that having someone else there can help take the emotion out of keeping certain belongings that may have served their purpose and leaves you with practical tools to ensure a long and happy organised life!
Each year, four of my special friends and I take some time to go away on what has become our annual ‘girls trip’.
We have been to some wonderful places, had some amazing experiences and most importantly, spent a whole lot of time laughing. For me, there’s nothing like getting together with these women.
This year, one of the girls decided we needed to find out what was in our own backyard and organised a weekend in our local town of Clermont.
It was wonderful!
From dining at some of the great restaurants and cafes in town to exploring our local museum and lagoon, we topped the weekend off with a hike to the top of one of the local peaks.
If you haven’t already, I highly recommend looking at what your local region has to offer. You might just be incredibly surprised.
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Qld Government for bringing this interview to you.
Josie Angus and her husband Blair are trailblazing a new era in beef production in Australia.
The couple’s on-property abattoir is nearing completion - a massive project which is set to redefine their business.
Josie very generously shared some time with me recently and we chatted about everything from her childhood to how she handles the stresses in her life. There are also some funny stories along the way!
I hope you enjoy hearing Josie’s tale as much as I did.
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Qld Government for their help in bringing this interview to you.
Following the tragic loss of their little girl Dolly in 2018, the Everett family were quick to launch a platform to help change the bullying culture in communities.
Dolly's Dream has gone from strength to strength and has quickly grown to become one of Australia's most recognised charities.
From developing their 'DigiPledge' to the new support-line , Dolly's Dream aims to provide practical tools to help those who are being bullied, those who are doing the bullying and family and loved ones who wish to help.
Through Tick, Kate and Meg's grief, they have created a lasting legacy to honour Dolly and to help prevent the same thing happening to another family.
For further information, head to www.dollysdream.org.au
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for their support in bringing you this interview.
To celebrate Mother's Day 2021, I wanted to bring to you, a story about an incredibly special Mum.
Debra Lamont was her region’s, Inspiring Woman of the Year in 2020 and is a woman with a huge heart and much love to give.
Debra and her family have helped more than 40 children find stability in their lives and have given these kids a home filled with love and kindness through their involvement with Anglicare Foster Care Services.
Debra confesses it hasn't always been easy but takes pride in the difference she has made to each and every child who has found a place in her home and heart.
I hope you enjoy hearing Debra's story as much as I did!
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for bringing you this story.
To coincide with this year's Beef Australia in Rockhampton, I thought it timely to chat with Jill Rigney from the Right Mind.
Jill shares with me her expertise in ensuring a legacy for future generations through careful financial planning, open communication and understanding each individual's needs.
We also speak about how taking care of our finances can help our mental health.
I hope you enjoy hearing from Jill.
Many thanks to the ANZ Bank for bringing this interview to you.
This year, to commemorate Anzac Day, Sergeant Tim Hibberd joins me to give some insight into his experience whilst serving in Afghanistan.
He also shares what Anzac Day means to him as a returned soldier in the 21st Century and gives a prodigious account of the significance of the Last Post.
Sergeant Hibberd served as an Aircraft Maintenance Manager, UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Mission Commander, and UAS/Tiger Maintenance Training Course Manager during his time in Afghanistan.
His story is more poignant given the recent announcement of the withdrawal of troops in Afghanistan. Hearing his account has given me a great deal of understanding and context around how an entire generation of the ADF would be feeling about the withdrawal.
I hope you enjoy the telling of Tim's story.
Lest We Forget.
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Qld Government for their support in bringing this interview to you.
My recent six-day hike across the Overland Track in Tasmania, opened up a whole new world for me, allowing me to experience many new challenges -
things I had never thought of doing before.
From climbing mountains to swimming in ice cold water, I absolutely fell in love with the whole adventure.
Whilst I don't have Girls Trek to thank for my first hiking experience (that accolade goes to Tasmanian Hikes), Frith Graham is the consummate professional, arranging unforgettable and unique hiking experiences for the perfect girl's getaway.
Their trips are challenging in parts but also rewarding and a lot of fun. Their aim is to provide happy memories to last a lifetime.
I know you'll be pulling on your hiking boots and strapping on your backpack after hearing from Frith!
Sincere thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for bringing this interview to you.
My recent six-day hike across the Overland Track in Tasmania, opened up a whole new world for me, allowing me to experience many new challenges -
things I had never thought of doing before.
From climbing mountains to swimming in ice cold water, I absolutely fell in love with the whole adventure.
Whilst I don't have Girls Trek to thank for my first hiking experience (that accolade goes to Tasmanian Hikes), Frith Graham is the consummate professional, arranging unforgettable and unique hiking experiences for the perfect girl's getaway.
Their trips are challenging in parts but also rewarding and a lot of fun. Their aim is to provide happy memories to last a lifetime.
I know you'll be pulling on your hiking boots and strapping on your backpack after hearing from Frith!
Sincere thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for bringing this interview to you.
When Marie Muffett took a well earned holiday with her daughter, she wasn't expecting their trip to turn her world upside down.
Marie was one of 2,700 passengers on-board the Ruby Princess, when it set sail for New Zealand in February last year.
Unfortunately, she was also one of more than 700 people on board that ship to contract COVID.
Marie shares her experience with me and has a dire warning to others to take COVID very seriously.
By the time Tracey Litfin was 21, she had graduated from study with first class honours, was newly married and within a few months of her wedding, had fallen pregnant with her first child.
Life was wonderful and exciting.
Sadly, that all changed on the 4th of September, 2002 when Tracey had a fall from her horse and was left in a coma with little chance of recovery.
But recover she did.
Tracey has written her courageous story, 'If You Fall' and recently sat down with me to share her experience.
Thank you to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for bringing this interview to you.
As part of International Women's Day, I wanted to bring to you someone who epitomises what I believe being a woman is all about.
Heidi Smith may look like a cowgirl, and she is, but she is also much more.
Heidi has had her fair share of challenges which she handles with grace, courage, love and hope. She doesn't make excuses for herself and is comfortable in her vulnerability.
She is an incredibly strong person in so many ways but also has an inherent softness and kindness.
Heidi speaks about endorphins, getting out of bed when you don't feel like it and putting one foot in front of the other.
From the Kokoda Trail to Everest Base Camp and everything in between, this is Heidi's story.
What happens when we die?
Why are we faced with so many challenges and what is our purpose here on earth?
Betty Eadie answers these questions and so many more in her beautiful book, 'Embraced by the Light'.
In the book, Betty documents her incredible experience of passing away and returning to fulfil her life's purpose.
'Embraced by the Light' has had a profound effect on my own life since I read it in the early nineties. I would never have guessed in a 'zillion' years I would ever have the opportunity to speak with Betty and am eternally grateful for her graciousness and generosity in doing so.
If you only ever listen to one of my interviews ever, let it be this one.
Mackay urologist, Dr Sanjeev Bandi, is a powerhouse within the ranks of Mo Bro’s worldwide.
He has been the leading individual fundraiser in Australia for a number of consecutive years and has raised $435,514 since 2008.
His club, the Mo~ving Mackay Cricket Club has raised $598,529 since 2011.
Dr Bandi believes we all need to work together to improve men’s health and well-being and is particularly passionate about youth suicide.
He is passionate, mo~tivated (sorry!) and very funny.
Warwick Schiller is a world-renowned Australian horseman, who is as passionate about mental health as he is about horses.
Warwick very graciously gave me his time recently, to share his insights from a male perspective on challenges, attitude and mental health.
As part of ‘Movember’ in Australia, I’m very grateful to Warwick for sharing his experiences with me this month.
With 20 million views on his YouTube channel, he is certainly someone well worth listening to!
Tracy Bevan’s name is synonymous with the McGrath Foundation.
As a foundation ambassador and director, Jane McGrath’s best friend has diligently carried out the plan they hatched together to ensure every Australian suffering breast cancer, has access to a McGrath breast care nurse.
With 151 McGrath nurses throughout Australia, there is still a way to go, but with the passion and dedication of Tracy and the McGrath Foundation team, I have no doubt their dreams will be realised.
I feel sure I speak for every Australian when I say how grateful I am these two English women found their way to our shores and have proudly called Australia home.
We have much to thank Jane, Tracy and their families for. I think Jane would be very proud of them all.
Many thanks to Suncorp for helping bring this interview to you and for their support to Life Journey during Breast Cancer Awareness month.
During Breast Cancer Awareness month, I thought it timely to catch up once again with Maree Balmain.
If you missed our first interview, Maree went from the labour ward to the oncology ward soon after giving birth to second child Harry.
The past 12 months have been huge for the Balmain family.
Between Maree’s treatment, the family have moved from Julia Creek in North West Qld to the Northern Territory where they manage up to 18,000 head of cattle.
During our interview, Maree shares that she has achieved PCR (pathologic complete response) which means ‘the absence of invasive cancer in the breast or lymph nodes following chemotherapy". In layman's terms, it means Maree is now cancer free!
Maree continues targeted treatment as a follow up and is finally able to speak about her long term hopes and dreams.
While continuing to place huge importance on raising awareness around breast cancer, Maree is passionate about reminding women to regularly check their breasts and keep their mammograms up to date.
I would like to sincerely thank Suncorp Bank for helping bring this interview to you.
In this episode, Sally Towne bravely shares her journey with IVF and breast cancer.
Sally, originally from Sydney, has spent her entire adult life in remote Australia and wouldn't have it any other way.
October, being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, gives us an opportunity to highlight the impact breast cancer has on those affected and their families.
Sal has a strong message and it includes:
- early detection is the key to survival.
- act on your intuition.
- if something doesn't feel right - don't take no for an answer.
- have regular check-ups.
- give yourself weekly breast examinations.
- check your insurance policies are up to date and include Trauma insurance.
As the founder of ‘Are You Bogged Mate?’, Mary O’Brien is a passionate advocate for men’s mental health.
Are You Bogged Mate?, aims to boost awareness and start a conversation with the broader community about the rising issue of depression and suicide rates among men in rural areas.
Through Mary’s advocacy, she is making it more acceptable for country men to talk about their challenges and most importantly to seek help when they need it.
I learnt so much chatting to Mary. As a woman with some much-loved men in my life, I am very grateful to her for lighting the way.
Watch on YouTube or listen here!
Julie Rainbow had everything she had always wanted.
A loving marriage, 2 gorgeous kids, a beautiful home, and an award-winning business.
Sadly though, Julie was to find out the hard way, what she thought of as a loving marriage, was built on lies and deceit.
Julie lost everything, but rather than dwell on her misfortune, she focused on what she loved most in this world, her kids.
Julie turned her life around and along the way created Clarity Road, a platform assisting women to move through adverse life-changing events such as divorce, bankruptcy, and job loss.
I hope you find empowerment and inspiration in Julie’s words.
Anna Daniels is a journalist, author and broadcaster from Rockhampton in Central Queensland.
Anna famously botched an interview with Russel Crowe when she was fresh from Uni. True to Anna’s style and philosophy, she didn’t let it get her down, turning the disaster into a triumph when she won the ABC’s Comedy Segment of the Year.
Anna has also written a best-selling novel, Girl In Between which was shortlisted for the Vogel Award.
Today's interview is one which I have been looking forward to since hearing Libby Moore speak last year and making an arrangement with her to 'catch up soon!' Well finally, and thank you to the Zoom platform, we caught up firstly last month, and again more recently to record this interview.
Libby certainly has an incredible story.
As a young person, Libby moved from her home state of Maryland to New York. Through a mutual friend's mother, Libby found herself working as assistant to television host Maury Povich.
During this time, Libby was encouraged to live her life with authenticity.
Libby eventually went on to become Oprah Winfrey's Chief of Staff, a position she held for 11 years.
Libby shares so much with me during our interview. Her truth and honesty is remarkable and has certainly taught me we must own our truths no matter how difficult they may be to admit to. As Libby says, 'GOD lives inside of TRUTH'.
I hope you enjoy hearing Libby as much as I did.
Will Wright was just 3 years old when he was diagnosed with leukemia. By the time Will was 5, he had spent 3 Christmas' and 3 birthdays in hospital.
In spite of this, with 4 relapses and 84 surgeries behind him, Will remains optimistic and excited about his future.
In Year 12, Will's class was asked to write an essay on how their lives had been affected by movies they had watched.
Will wrote 'Hakuna Matata'.
Will's Dad tells me how much this essay means to all who read it when they have the understanding of Will's history, treatments and surgeries. I know it certainly has touched me.
In his story, Will describes the profoundness he sees in the movie 'The Lion King' and how if we all worried less, loved and enjoyed our lives more, the world would be a far happier place.
Thank you Will for allowing me to reprint 'Hakuna Matata' and for taking the time to share your story.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very happy 21st birthday today. Congratulations on making your life one of positivity and courage.
Will Wright has the maturity of a person who has seen and experienced much in their life. He is able to put his problems aside to make the world a happier place for those who are fortunate enough to be in his life.
He is a true gentleman, is kind, honest and makes the best cup of tea!
From a simple gesture of kindness, Juliette Wright began her charity GIVIT in 2009 and since then has donated over 2 million items to those in need.
GIVIT's unique concept quickly captured the attention of the Government. When Queensland flooded in 2011, Premier Anna Bligh turned to Juliette for help. Givit became the state government's official website for managing donations during disasters. They are now recognised as the National Disaster and Emergency Partner.
During the devastating bushfires earlier in the year, the Duchess of Cornwall reached out to the GIVIT team to make a donation. Camilla is now Patron of the Charity, something Juliette is justly proud of!
This week's podcast is an oldie, but a goodie. I sit down and interview Ben Dobbin, Dobbo (as everyone knows him). Ben has led such an interesting life. From growing up in the middle of Sydney, to working in the Northern Territory on a remote cattle property, he is now a well known media personality.
Dobbo even shares a bit of life advice with me.
I hope you enjoy this interview.
Jules Galloway had a troubled childhood.
Her adopted parents kept her locked away in their home, only allowing her to go to school with all hell breaking loose if she was just minutes late home in the afternoon.
By the time Jules was 16, being homeless seemed a better option than staying where she was.
Despite everything, Jules has managed to put her dreadful childhood behind her to become a compassionate and successful person.
Jules helps her clients live healthy lives and even lends her time to the organisation, Involvement Volunteers International, helping bring better health to underprivileged countries.
I hope you enjoy Jules story as much as I did!
I was fortunate enough to catch up with the incredible Steven Bradbury last year.
To take his gold medal victory in Salt Lake City in 2002 at face value, would be to seriously underrate the enormous effort he put into his career in the years leading up to that spectacular moment.
Julie Cross is a passionate speaker and brings a strong message of hope and empowerment to all who hear her speak.
Julie's own life hasn't been easy. She lost her husband when their two boys were little and their youngest child has lived his 19 years with autism.
Julie fills her life with so much positivity and humour, its difficult not to feel happier in her company.
I hope you enjoy our interview!
The battle began every morning for Kyle Andrews when he climbed out of bed.
Kyle always knew he was gay, but it wasn’t until he was 13 and his parents found out, that things became really difficult for him.
Thrown out of home and ostracised by his peers, things couldn’t have been worse for a young gay person growing up in a small rural community.
Somehow though, Kyle found the courage to stand up and be true to himself. He did so with humility, kindness, and hope.
I have met Kyle several times now and I thoroughly enjoy his company. He is witty, sometimes vulnerable but filled with love and hope. He is grateful, considerate and lives his life with a deep sense of integrity.
He is one of the bravest young people I know.
"It's hard to imagine how you would react if you were tragically struck down in your youth. Why would you? It's not like that is ever going to happen."
So reads the first paragraph in Col Mackereth's memoir, Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow. A book I had difficulty putting down.
Col's story is one of overcoming unimaginable odds and doing so with courage, humility, and love. He does not just live a good life but has found deep peace and understanding within himself.
I had goosebumps speaking with Col. I hope you enjoy his story.
To learn more about Col head to his website: https://www.8keys.com.au/
"Run Forrest Run". That is the most memorable line for me from Forrest Gump (apart from 'Life is like a box of chocolates'). Forrest is sitting on a park bench as an adult telling a very bored woman - 'You wouldn't believe me if I told you I could run like the wind blows. From that day on, if I was going somewhere I was running'.
Why am I telling you this? Well it reminds me so much of Sarah Foster. Not that Sarah has ever been in callipers and is actually a very smart woman - unlike Forrest who 'may not be a smart man but knows what love is'.
But, Sarah found herself running and forgot to stop! Sarah lives on a remote cattle property in the Gulf of Australia and amongst many things, is an ultra marathon runner. She recently won the Delirious W.E.S.T, a leisurely 350km run in Western Australia.
In our interview, Sarah shares her story of struggle, sacrifice and triumph with a little bit of love thrown in!
Shanna Whan's raw, brutal honesty about her alcoholism, is testament to the courage and strong desire she has to help others suffering from addiction in our country. Shanna explains Sober in the Country below in her own words.
I hope you enjoy Shanna's story.
Sober in the Country (SITC) is a national charity with a focus on positively impacting and shifting the bush alcohol culture through grassroots conversations among mates that it's “OK2SAYNO” to a drink. Charity founder and CEO Shanna Whan has worked relentlessly in this space since early 2015 with the sole aim of using her own lived-experience as a recovered alcoholic to drive overdue change, awareness, and support for others. Specifically she addresses the rural demographic (like her) that works to feed and clothe the rest of the nation but often does so minus adequate support during times of need. When Shanna's episode of Australian Story went to air in late 2019 in the same week that SITC transitioned from 'solo volunteer' to national charity, the conversation went national and international.
During my interview with David Hanlon from The Right Mind, I was reminded how important our own personal growth is to live happy, contented lives.
Hannah Baxter and her children’s passing has affected all of us deeply.
That something so terrible can happen in our beautiful country, in our quiet suburban streets is something that I’m sure we are all having trouble coming to terms with.
What though, of those who have walked before Hannah, in similar circumstances, but have survived the horror?
Joy Leach (not her real name), is one such woman. Joy sat with me towards the end of last year to tell her courageous story of domestic violence. We thought it timely to share this with you now.
Joy told me, that hearing Hannah’s family speak, felt a little like they could have been speaking for her, for her life, not so very long ago. She wonders how many other women out there are like Hannah and herself, who hope and pray things will get better.
Thankfully Joy has lived to see a kind world. An anonymous person, recognising the effect this tragedy would have on Joy, sent her a beautiful bunch of flowers. The note simply read, ‘I know what you went through, stay strong’. If you were that person, know how loved you made Joy feel.
Let's all work together to break the chain of domestic violence. It’s time to step up and speak out.
This interview was recorded after the second annual Dolly's Day.
The Everett family experienced the unimaginable in 2018 when their youngest daughter Dolly took her own life following an extended period of bullying and cyber-bullying.
Tick, Kate, and Meg work tirelessly to prevent other families from experiencing the same thing. When I last sat down with Kate Everett in February last year, the family had just arrived home after winning Australia’s Local Hero Award in Canberra for their initiative in creating Dolly’s Dream. They were also looking forward to their very first ‘Do it for Dolly Day’ with the intention of creating awareness and spreading kindness right across Australia.
Since then, Dolly’s Dream has gone from strength to strength and Tick, Kate and Meg remain stoic in their quest to create a kinder world in memory of their beautiful Dolly.
I hope you enjoy my interview with Kate today. I am so grateful for her taking the time to speak with me.
What makes a person so desperate in this life they no longer want to be here?
What happens if that person survives an attempt on their life?
Is it possible for them to recover and have a full, happy and positive future?
I recently caught up with Anthony Hart who has the answers to these questions and more.
Anthony's story is one of hope and courage, dignity and strength and of course love.
I hope you enjoy listening to Anthony.
If you're struggling, reach out before its too late.
Interview May 2019
In this episode we speak with Kate who, along with her husband Tick, are the driving force behind Dolly's Dream.
Kate is a truly remarkable woman who has turned a mother’s loss into a positive movement for change.
Dolly’s Dream was instigated to honour their daughter Dolly and to continue a nationwide conversation about the devastating effects of bullying.
Dolly’s legacy, through her parents and sister Meg, is to create a happier life for our children.
By educating the devastating effects bullying has on our kids, Dolly’s Dream’s illustrates ways to empower individuals experiencing bullying and also aims to deter bullying in the first place.
Stay tuned for a more recent interview from Kate following the second annual "Dolly's Day"
Demi Bettini is the most inspirational young women I know. As a 13 year old, Demi was told she had just months to live following a terminal cancer diagnosis. Demi is now 19 and lives her life in such joy that you can’t help but be infected by her zest for life. If we could all live with Demi’s attitude, the world would indeed be a wonderful place! Demi you are a rock star!