Everyone Has A Story: Recent Episodes
John Caruso
When it comes to building your dream home, the initial consultation with your builder is a crucial step. Today PatRyan from Ryan Designer Homes will explore the importance of this first meeting. From understanding your aspirations to setting a realistic budget, Pat shares his expert insights on how to make the most of this critical stage. Learn how to ask the right questions, establish a collaborative relationship with your builder, and set your project up for success.
Matteo is the restaurateur behind Lucio's Marina. In this episode of our podcast, we'll take you on a journey through the three acts of his restaurant's evolution, from post-COVID to its status as a must-visit destination for serious foodies. With a focus on customer satisfaction, unique offerings, and attention to detail, Lucio's Marina is a true reflection of Matteo's passion and dedication.
From the bustling financial world to the heart of the arts scene, our guest today has lived a multifaceted life.
Meet Andrew Stafford, Brisbane born with a destiny seemingly carved out by his grandfather’s words. Andrew’s journey has taken him from the vibrant cities of Hong Kong and Sydney to the laid-back paradise of Noosa. A successful Director and Senior InvestmentAdviser at Morgans Noosa and current President of Noosa Alive, Andrew’s career path might seem straightforward, but there’s a rich tapestry of experiences and passions woven into his story.
Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the future of motoring with our guest, Brett Mills, dealer principal for Ken Mills Toyota. As we navigate the uncharted road of electric vehicles and sustainable technology, Brett’s insights shed light on the journey ahead, reminding us that the journey is just as important as the destination.
In this episode, we’ll explore Brett’s experience with Toyota’s first fully electric vehicle, the bZ4x, anddiscuss the broader landscape of motoring. From the everyday practicalities ofowning an EV to the future possibilities of hydrogen fuel cell technology, this is an interesting insight into Toyota’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
In this episode, we're featuring Pat Ryan, the man behind Ryan Designer Homes and we’ll follow his journey from apprentice to operating his own thriving business. Pat's journey is a testament to the power of a dream and his unique approach to building balances his vision with the needs and wants of his clients, ensuring every home is a unique reflection of personal style and preferences.
Pat's story is a reminder that with passion, dedication, and a clear vision, it's possible to build not just homes, but dreams. Join us as we uncover the story of a bloke who still gets a 'buzz' when he delivers the keys to excited new homeowners.
Pip Covell is the dynamic and charismatic leader of Sunshine Beach Real Estate! Pip's infectious energy andpassion for her work have made her a household name in the local industry. With a career spanning over three decades, she has built a reputation for sound business practice, effective communication, and a deep connection with the community. From classic cars to music and dance, Pip's creative side shines through in everything she does.
In this episode, we delve into Pip's inspiring story, from teaching music to the real estate industry. We explore her unique approach to leadership, her commitment to her team, and her dedication to the Sunshine Beach community. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind Pip's success and learn how she continues to thrive in a competitive industry.
Join me as I sit down with Rio Capurso from Locale, one of Noosa's most beloved restaurants. From Puglia, Italy to the picturesque Greek Islands and the bustling streets of London, Rio's journey is a great tale.
In this episode, we'll delve into how one of Noosa’s most successful restaurant ticks and what makes Locale ahousehold name in Noosa's dining scene. We'll talk about the skills required to succeed in the fast-paced hospitality industry, and how family and heritage have, and are shaping Rio's approach to food and community.
Join us as we delve into the remarkable story of Bella Venezia, a Sunshine Coast institution that has transformed during its almost forty-year history into the gastronomic haven it is today. We’ll sit down with co-owner Todd Young to uncover the secrets behind its enduring success and adaptability in the ever-changing hospitality landscape.
Ever wondered how someone from a laid-back place like the Sunshine Coast ends up working on some of the biggest reality TV shows? Shows like Survivor and The Apprentice? Today, we meet Dan Munday andhe’ll talk us through his incredible career path, taking us from regional Queensland to the San Fernando Valley in California. But Dan isn't just reminiscing – he's using his experience to give back to the Sunshine Coast. We'll also hear about the Sunny Coast Showdown, a film festival spearheaded by Dan and another Sunshine Coast legend, Powderfinger drummer Jon Coghill.
Today we're joined by two distinguished guests, Travis Shultz, and Jane Ferrari. Travis, a respected local lawyer with a deep-seated passion for fine wines, began his journey in the world of wine as a writer many years ago. Jane, on the other hand, is a celebrated figure in the winemaking industry, with a wealth of knowledge andexperience.
This episode of our podcast was recorded in the “green room” ahead of the 2024 Winemaker's Masterclass at the Maroochy RSL, an event that combines the love of wine with a noble cause. The event is more than just a masterclass, it's a fundraiser for SunnyKids, a charity that's making a real difference on the Sunshine Coast.
This year’s event raised over $187,000!
Welcome to a special episode of our podcast, Everyone Has a Story, today featuring Hedley Thomas, multi-Walkley Award winner, investigative journalist, and creator of the most listened-to crime podcast in the world, The Teacher’s Pet.
This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at Park & Cove Restaurant at Pepper’s Noosa Resort & Villas. You may be surprised to hear in the episode that Hedley crafted and wrote some of the episodes while staying at Pepper’s.
Let’s go behind the scenes of The Teacher’s Pet podcast and discover extra details that were never in the original podcast but now feature in Hedley’s new book of thesame name.
Today we're excited to be joined by Tom Harvey, co-founder of TH7 BodyLabs. Now, Tom isn't just another entrepreneur – he's on a mission to revolutionise humanperformance and well-being through a unique set of protocols and that's exactly what we're going to dig into today.
Curious about how to unlock next-level health benefits, from sleep so deep you wake up feeling reborn to accelerated injury recovery and even the potential to extend your health span? Then strap yourselves in, because Tom's about to break down the science behind TH7 BodyLabs’ methods and how they can transform your life. Let's jump right in!
In a world obsessed with electric vehicles, one car maker is taking a different road. Toyota, the brand synonymous with reliability, is sceptical towards EVs. But is their caution justified?
Join us on this episode of our podcast as we speak with Brett Mills from Ken Mills Toyota, a long-time dealer principal, we’ll dive deep into the iconic brand'sfuture. We'll explore Toyota's multi-pronged approach to clean cars, from hybrids to hydrogen, and discover why they believe it's the key to winning the race for sustainable transportation. Is electric the only path, or is there a morediverse future for motor vehicles? Buckle up for a fascinating conversation about trust, tradition, and the road ahead.
Do you crave authentic Mexican flavours with a fresh, local twist? In this episode, we journey from the SapphireCoast to the Sunshine Coast with restauranteur Jason Jones. We'll explore his passion for Mexican cuisine, ignited by a childhood spent foraging and experimenting in the kitchen.
Jason will share the story behind Mamasita, one of Melbourne's most beloved Mexican destinations. We'll also discover how his adventures abroad, from Europe to Singapore, influenced the creation of his current project, Bandita.
Located riverside in Noosa, Bandita offers a unique take on Mexican food. Think fresh, local seafood cooked over fire, alongside classic favourites like tacos and guacamole.
But Bandita is more than just a restaurant. It's an experience. Jason believes in fostering a communityaround food and creating memorable moments for his guests.
Join us as we delve into Jason's culinary philosophy, the inspiration behind Bandita, and the magic of dining riverside with a million-dollar sunset.
Today, we're diving into the life of Alexander Payne, a man who has always had a love for Noosa. Originally from Victoria, he was a frequent visitor to Noosa, sometimes visiting twice a year for holidays. His deep affection for the area led him to move here for the first time in the 1980s.
Now, Alexander lives in Sunshine Beach with his husband, Adrian, and Alexander works as a real estate agent with Reed & Co. He specialises in properties in Sunshine Beach, an area he fondly describes as a place where you’ll come across "Beetles and Bentleys". Join us as we explore Alexander's journey, his love for Noosa, and his insights into the unique charm of Sunshine Beach.
Welcome to our latest podcast episode, where we delve into the world of community banking with our guest, Kerryn Vincart, Branch Manager of Bendigo Bank at Tewantin Noosa.
Kerryn brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in fostering a community-focused banking approach that genuinely helps locals.
In this episode, we explore the importance of financial education and the need for all of us to develop financial literacy. Kerryn shares her insights on the future of physical bank branches and whether they will continue to exist in the coming years.
It’s an engaging discussion on the evolving landscape of banking and finance.
Welcome to Everyone Has a Story, where we dive into the lives of extraordinary individuals who are shaping our world in remarkable ways. Today, we're thrilled to have with us Amanda Yeates, the CEO of SunCentral, the company behind the transformative development of the new Maroochydore CBD on the Sunshine Coast.
In a world driven by technology and innovation, it's easy to overlook the power of infrastructure development. But as Amanda reminds us, building infrastructure isn't just about creating roads and bridges; it's about shaping the very fabric of our communities.
Growing up, Amanda was inspired by her father's dedication to infrastructure projects. She witnessed firsthand the impact his work had on people's lives, and it was this realisation that ignited a passion to pursue a career in infrastructure development.
Today, Amanda stands at the helm of SunCentral, leading a team of passionate individuals who are redefining the concept of a city centre. The new Maroochydore CBD is more than just a collection of buildings; it's a vision for a sustainable, connected, and vibrant community.
In this episode, we'll delve into Amanda's journey, exploring the challenges and triumphs of building a CBD from scratch. We'll also discuss the importance of community building, the role of green credentials in urban development, and Amanda's vision for the future of Maroochydore.
In this episode of Everyone Has a Story, we meet Andrew Wilcox from restaurant Park & Cove at Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas. He’s an individual who has always been driven to succeed. Growing up on the Sunshine Coast in Tewantin, Andy always had a thirst for life and a desire to make his mark on the world. He demonstrated a strong work ethic and a passion for cooking, traits that have led him to a successful career in hospitality. Andy'slove of food and his dedication to his craft have made him a well-respected figure in the industry.
He’s a big sports fan, he loves Formula One motor racing and the NBA. He’s particularly fond of former Chicago Bulls coach Phil Jackson, whom he admires for his mentorship, leadership, and motivational skills.
Andy's story is one of determination, hard work, and success. He is an inspiration to us all to follow our dreams and never give up on ourselves. In this episode, we will hear about Andy's life, his career, and his passions. We will also learn about the challenges he has faced and how he has overcome them.
Andy's story is a reminder that anything is possible if we set our minds to it.
Diamonds form, over time, under extreme temperature and pressure. Today you’ll meet a woman, who just like the formation of a precious gem, has built a successful business and brand following several obstacles. Life has tossed Sandra Greenberger a few curveballs. Low self-esteem growing up, a broken marriagethat left her with two small children, and then the loss of her driver’s licence and subsequently her full-time job. Sandra will tell you that there were occasions when she was “curled up in a ball on the floor” however the result culminated in the purchase of her own business, Leskes Jewellers, even though she had no experience at all at ever running one.
Like many of us, settling on a career in our teens or even early twenties can be elusive. Today’s guest didn’t know what she wanted to do with her life.
From underwater archaeological sites in the Aegean Sea to outrunning pirates in the Red Sea, she’s managed to combine all her loves. Travel, shopping, and homewares.
Imagine how challenging running multiple business interests can be.
Today’s guest is a woman of many talents and passions. She’s always been fascinated by different industries and opportunities and has pursued her goals with courage and creativity. From organising dream weddings to running successful gymnasiums and fitness centres in Australia and the Cayman Islands to launching a chain of popular art and wine studios. My guest is a female entrepreneur who has learned valuable lessons along the way. It’s been a journey of discovery, challenge, and growth. A journey that still has some way to go.
Are older women being seen? More importantly, are they being heard? Millennials buried deep in a social media landscape seldom recognise what baby boomers have to offer.
Today’s guest speaks about her purpose of being seen and heard as a septuagenarian.
And Kerala, India with its cultural diversity, rich history, and varied landscape that includes the Arabian Sea coast, seems worlds away from Dalby, the often-hot rural Queensland town where my guest grew up.
Why does she go there every two years?
Find out in this episode.
The Comiskey Group is a family-owned hospitality, entertainment, and construction company founded by Paul Comiskey more than 50 years ago. Rob is one of two brothers who run the business with his dad and the group recently opened the doors on The Doonan, a site they purchased 15 years ago.
I was interested in learning why and how some people see opportunity in a venture when others don’t. The Comiskey Group has done that with several projects and as you’ll hear in this episode, sometimes without a “plan B”.
Coffee has a rich history, complex chemistry, and a variety of effects on the human body and mind. For many, it’s more than just a drink; it’s a ritual, a social lubricant, a source of energy, and pleasure.
I recently sat down with two locals responsible for the smoothest double espresso I’ve ever tasted.
Ben & Kate Saultry from Bunker Specialty Coffee Co.
There are many tools, strategies, events, and support available for business owners these days. Coaches, consultants, boot camps, and business breakfasts. In this episode, you'll meet a business owner who’s fined tuned the art of conversation, connection, and community and packaged it up into a brand new podcast that’s paying dividends.
My guest on today’s episode of our podcast always dreamt of creating a place where it felt like the people dining were at his home sharing a meal. Somewhere warm, relaxed, and familiar. The idea for Herbert sprang from a collaboration with Alex McKechnie, an earlier podcast guest, and the end result is described as a creative yin to an excel yang.
The explanation for that lies ahead in the episode you’re about to hear.
There’s something very special about All' Antica.
The space is warm and cozy and the tables have those traditional red and white tablecloths and the Chianti on the menu pairs perfectly with the Italian fare.
I can’t help but hear the Billy Joel classic in my head, Scenes from an Italian Restaurant, and the words linger long after the meal has ended.
The restaurant itself has been operating for more than three decades.
Everyone Has a Story and today I'd like you to meet Helen and Shane McNally
Harry grew up in a large immigrant family in the rough and tough western suburbs of Melbourne and his first jobs in kitchens were an escape, of sorts, from thetight reins his dad held over the seven kids. He’s prepared food for Formula One driver Michael Schumacher and he recalls the early days of Cecconi’s in Melbourne’s Crown Casino when the pollies would be seated on one side of the restaurant and the local mafia on the other.
Everyone has a Story and today I’d like you to meet Harry Lilai (executive chef Bocca Italian)
Nilla is the driving force behind the Vanilla Food brand. There’s a café, retail, and a cookbook.
The Vanilla Food cookbook is on sale in the IN Noosa Magazine shop on our IN Noosa website and on vanillafood.com.au
In this episode, you’ll hear the story of a rebellious teen from Denmark who dreamt of traveling and ended up a successful businesswoman on the other side of the world in a country she now calls home.
Today’s guest had a great childhood. He traveled around Australia with his parents on a bus being home-schooled. This ignited his adventurer’s spirit that led him to London with plans to then make it to New York City.
His passion for and interest in botany has set him off on a fascinating journey of discovery that has dovetailed into his career in hospitality as co-owner of Herbert in Noosa Junction.
Today’s guest has worked as part of the production team for some of the world’s biggest films and television shows. From Harry Potter to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory starring Johnny Depp, to The Last Samurai with Tom Cruise.
These days he’s helping people from his Doonan home with skills honed while on set as a makeup artist.
Everyone has a story and today I’d like you to meet Michael Krehl from Scalp Micropigmentation Noosa.
Abalone has been a much sort after product in Asian countries, however with fewer exports heading to China there’s now a push by the New South Wales Abalone Association to get abalone on menus here in Australia and to raise awareness for the product amongst Aussie consumers.
Greg Finn and Greg Ryzy are both part of the association and I spoke to them on the afternoon ahead of a sold-out abalone experience at Peter Kuruvita’s Noosa restaurant, Alba by Kuruvita.
Today’s guest never thought she’d be working with people involved in domestic violence cases. Her interest in sociological issues started at a young age and driving social change has been a powerful motivator. Kathleen Hope is the General Manager of Sunny Kids, Sunshine Coast.
Today’s guest has dedicated herself to her career in ophthalmology with study and work in places like London, Singapore, Melbourne, and Sydney. Her father’s influence in terms of the way he helped and supported his children early on with their careers has had a big influence on my guest today, and in turn, there’s an element of giving back to the community and giving back to students who are just starting out.
You can't help but get swept up in my next guest's enthusiasm when she talks to you. She's a podcaster, coach, and author of the book Radical Self Belief. She's spent a lot of her time helping women and now she's turning her attention towards helping blokes. This episode is full of cracking one-liners that you're sure to remember and repeat to others.
Today’s guest is the founder of OneWorld, a home furnishings business with seven retail outlets and an online store as well.It’s a great entrepreneurial tale of a South African businessman who turned his rejected job applications into fuel to start his own company.
There’s always been a sense of myth and mystery around baseball. MLB teams like the New York Yankees, The White Sox, and the LA Dodgers are globally recognised brands, and while the game may not be considered a tier-one game in Australia, a local club, Sunshine Coast Baseball has given my son Max a sense of purpose, passion and skill level that I’ll always be grateful for. It might just do the same for your kids.
My guest on today’s episode is a cardiologist who’s studied and worked all over the world, from the UK to Italy, Germany, and the United States.With the recent deaths of prominent Australians, Shane Warne, and Senator Kimberley Kitching, cricketer Ryan Campbell is luckily recovering following his cardiac arrest; pre-emptive measures around heart disease and heart attacks have been a trending topic.Professor Christian Hamilton-Craig believes that there’s a simple, accurate test that could save many more lives.
My next guest is the CEO and artistic director of Anywhere Festival which has been running for twelve years now. The performance locations are as diverse as the artists involved, laneways, swimming pools, backyards and even an old ambulance station in Nambour will host performers during Anywhere Festival which starts on April 29.
My guest on today’s episode of Everyone Has a Story is following in his father’s footsteps and carving out a career behind the wheel of a racing car.
In today’s episode, we’ll meet the founder and managing director of Respond Global where a team of superheroes operates out of an unassuming office in Noosaville.This conversation was recorded before the Russian invasion of Ukraine and before the flooding that occurred along the Australian East coast. Because of those two big headline events, COVID-related news hasn’t been as prominent as it was when this episode was recorded however according to medical and scientific experts, new variants will inevitably develop, and we’ll continue to learn how to manage and live with that.
Today’s guest has travelled and worked for some of the best and biggest hospitality brands around. His passion for food was sparked early on when his family moved to Hong Kong and Singapore because of his father’s work.Following stints in Melbourne and making a name for himself at Ricky’s in Noosa my next guest has branched out into the ready-made meals business with a new brand, Noosa Cartel.
My guest on today’s episode of Everyone Has a Story is the event organiser for this year’s Noosa Festival of Surfing, March 5 to 13, 2022. The legendary Phil Jarratt was one of my first guests on this podcast, you can check out all of our episodes for free by simply searching for Everyone Has a Story on your favourite podcast platform. Phil is still involved with the event, and we talk about that and all of the other attractions and special guests that’ll be part of year’s Noosa Festival of Surfing.Everyone Has a Story and today I’d like you to meet Josh Allen.
My next guest is a household name, although there are many aspects of his life and career that I was unaware of and I’m sure you’ll find this episode equally fascinating and inspirational.We talk about his travels and work all over the globe, dealing with racism in Sydney when he was a kid back in the ‘70s and we discuss his passion and love of food.Everyone has a story and today I’d like you to meet Peter Kuruvita.
Today’s guest on Everyone Has a Story was born in France. He’s travelled the world and his passion for food has led him to our shores where together with his partner Jimmy, they operate the much talked about Whisky Boy on Gympie Terrace, Noosaville.
I’ve always admired my next guest’s passion and drive. He applies it to all aspects of his life. In this episode of our podcast we talk, Harley Davidson motorbikes, nature photography, growing up in Germany and making a new life here in Australia, and applying his entrepreneurial skills to building a successful business.
My next guest traveled to the other side of the world to work in the bustling financial markets in London.She was in Christchurch in 2011 when the earthquake struck and soon after moved to Australia.If you’re familiar with real estate shows like Million Dollar Listing & Luxe Listings, then you’ve heard the term buyer’s agent.That’s what my next guest does now, here on the Sunshine Coast with her business Klein Hunter Property Buyers.
My next guest says he disappointed his father when he made the decision not to take over the family’s farm in rural Victoria. Instead, a career in aviation lay ahead and these days my guest is one of the founders of Sunshine & Sons on the Sunshine Coast.He says that the business is not a transaction business, it’s a relationships business and in this episode, we’ll hear how a major supermarket chain helped the start-up find its feet.
My next guest has spent a lifetime involved in music. She was classically trained however her teacher at the time said she had the talent but not the discipline. My guest on today’s episode has performed in bands and entertained huge crowds as a DJ all over the world, even working for iconic fashion labels like Louis Vuitton.Everyone Has A Story and today I’d like you to meet Niki De Saint.
Mark is the father of two girls who suffer from eating disorders. He founded endED with the goal of giving hope to those suffering from an eating disorder by creating an alternative to the medical model. The first residential eating disorder facility has opened and it’s here on the Sunshine Coast.
David Williamson is Australia’s most successful playwright celebrating fifty years in the arts with the release of Home Truths, a memoir, in September of this year. He and his wife Kristin were instrumental in launching the Noosa Long Weekend, now known as Noosa Alive. In this episode of Everyone Has A Story, we talk about his work, his kids, grandkids, the Collingwood Football Club, and Graham Kennedy.
Today’s guest on this episode of Everyone Has A Story has been the principal of Sunshine Coast Grammar for many years. As a parent, I really enjoyed this chat, we talk about the impact of social media on kids, online bullying, why a cookie-cutter approach to teaching is not an option for students at Sunshine Coast Grammar and we discuss how the school is helping raise kids today that will turn into the positive community leaders of tomorrow.Everyone Has A Story and today I’d like you to meet Maria Woods.
My guest on today’s episode of Everyone Has A Story is a guy whose parents were both Maltese. He lost his mum when he was only eight years of age and his passion for the 1960s and the 1970s, his collectibles, his music, the films he’s collected, and his cars, all remind him of his late mum. He’s got all of this incredible memorabilia together in what most blokes would describe as the ultimate ‘man cave’ on a property that he and his wife Lisa Curry, are preparing as a Sunshine Coast hinterland retreat called, Mali Retreat.He’s an entertainer who brings the music of Elvis, Tom Jones, John Lennon, and many others to life up on stage.Everyone Has A Story and today I’d like you to meet Mark Tabone.
Lisa Curry has been a recognised name, or brand if you like for 40 years. From gold medal performances in the pool to launching her own business, Happy, Healthy, You and now she’s preparing a new site with her husband Mark Tabone, a property in the Sunshine Coast hinterland called Mali Retreat. Lisa’s experienced the highs and the tragic lows. Everyone Has A Story and Lisa has a few to share with us in this episode of our podcast.
A great story of resilience and of never being afraid of getting your hands dirty. From establishing the Solbar in Maroochydore to the newly opened Rooftop Bar and now onto brewing with Diablo Co Queensland, Dimi has seen and done it all!
Tony Kelly is a well-known Sunshine Coast business owner and entrepreneur who first made his mark in Maroochydore about two decades ago with the iconic Wine Bar. His brain is always at work thinking up new ideas and new business opportunities and I think this chat offers a wonderful insight into how this local identity 'ticks'. We talk about the COVID shut down last year and why he dove headlong into launching new business ventures just as local restrictions lifted, while others were paralyzed to move.
The story may be a familiar one, your parents or grandparents grow older, their health deteriorates, and a nursing facility is where they spend their final days.But have you ever wondered where you end up if say you’re a teenager or twentysomething and you need ongoing care?Youngcare is an organisation that recognised that there was work to be done in that area.Anthony Ryan is the CEO of Youngcare.
About twelve months ago Clare Stewart was elected Mayor of Noosa and she became the first female Mayor in Noosa Council history. However, that’s not what’s remarkable about Clare. Twenty-one years ago, in Sydney, Clare was struck by a truck with her legs pinned under the weight of the truck for more than half an hour. She was conscious the whole time. The accident and Clare’s recovery are detailed in her book Standing On My Own Two Feet, and what you’ll hear with our chat here is the story of someone who overcame the odds, continued to pursue a professional career in law, and then eventually found her way into local government.
For Gudanji people, only a select few are storytellers. It’s a testament to Ryhia Dank’s skill as an artist, that someone so young, has become one of those storytellers, depicting the neutral, natural tones of her traditional land, Gurrinjiny, together with the brighter colours that surround her, here on the Sunshine Coast.
Opening and successfully running your own business is one thing. Doing it when you’ve been diagnosed with epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and autism is an achievement that deserves recognition and much respect. A year ago, my next guest was out of a job and out of options. Today he’s operating a successful coffee shop on the Sunshine Coast.Everyone has a story and I’d like you to meet Harrison Hedges.
If you Google the name Ashton Wood and the brand Jeep, you’ll discover that my next guest had a protracted ‘beef’ with Jeep over a vehicle that he called a ‘lemon’.The relationship between Ashton and Jeep is a lot better these days, in fact, Jeep dealerships are helping Ashton with a project, getting unwanted mobile phones into the hands of victims of domestic violence.Everyone has a story and today I’d like you to meet Ashton Wood.
My next guest’s adventurous spirit saw her leave her rural setting in the north of England and settle in Australia when she fell in love with an Aussie bloke which resulted in her mum promptly buying an airline ticket to head down under to see what all the fuss was about.A back injury many years ago was the catalyst for Julia to start painting and the walls of her gallery on Gateway Drive, Noosaville is full of bright inspirational work.And that’s where we met to record this podcast.Everyone has a story and today I’d like you to meet Julia Carter.
If your mum or dad worked in the arts, do you think they would encourage or strongly discourage you from following in their footsteps?Rory is the son of the most produced playwright in the history of Australian theatre, his father is David Williamson.Here’s an opportunity for you to be a fly-on-the-wall as Rory and I talk about his dad, what it was like for the Williamson family growing up in Balmain, and what was it that Rory discovered in an old filing cabinet that set him off on his current career?Williamson & Co is about to throw open the doors on its new premises, shop 2/28 Sunshine Beach Road, Noosa Heads.Everyone Has A Story and today I’d like you to meet Rory Williamson.
My next guest is a Noosa highflyer with a long and varied career, from hospitality to television and radio and now real estate.Kate works for Reed & Co Estate Agents and she currently has a listing, Stonelea, Cooroy Mountain Noosa Hinterland, that just might set a new record price for Noosa real estate property prices.
Ok, so we've had a global lock-down because of COVID-19, and now we're in a recession. What's next for the Noosa Real Estate market?
The rise of craft breweries and independent brewers has been phenomenal over the last five years.Brothers Lance and Craig Masterton from Heads of Noosa Taproom, have always had a passion for beer, brewing and diarising their results, sometimes as many as three to four hundred times, making sure that the flavour profiles are palatable and to their liking.Why did the brothers decide to go big when building the large brewing facility in Rene Street, Noosa? What are the goals for the brand in the next five years?And who’s responsible for that, outstanding Japanese Lager that they have on tap?
Imagine a life, where you spend your childhood between Switzerland and Spain and celebrities like Andy Warhol and Allen Jones are regular party guests at your parents’ home.This was Zoe’s life growing up with renowned British pop artist Peter Phillips as her father.These days, Zoe, along with her father Peter, husband Read and their young daughter, all call Noosa home.What brought them here? Why did Zoe send herself off to boarding school in the United States? And is it true that her dad would trade his art for parcels of land all over the world?
Giving kids an opportunity and a chance to excel with their education, growing confidence and ambition for children who have experienced a challenging upbringing is a rewarding experience for my next guest, Tara Bell, CEO of Noosa Chances
Providing care and support for a loved one with a terminal illness is not something that most of us think about often. The ‘circle of life’ means we’ll all have to consider the options at some stage and if the cold, clinical, institutional operation of a nursing home leaves you despondent, it’s comforting to know that there’s a place like Katie Rose Cottage.There’s a line in the podcast you’re about to hear, with Katie Rose Cottage chair Carol Raye, that really struck me, ‘There is such a thing as a beautiful death’.
Have you ever wondered how the great fashion designers and labels got started?What if I told you that from humble beginnings at the Eumundi Markets, in the Noosa hinterland in Queensland, Dui Cameron has seen her colourful Boom Shankar fashion label grow into a super successful global business?In this podcast we’ll examine the Boom Shankar business model and explore why it’s critical to surround yourself with the right people for your business and brand.I hope you enjoy the pod. Dui and I recorded it just outside the Boom Shankar office, in the Peregian Village square.
Juan Ford is IN Noosa Magazine’s spring issue cover artist. We met at the official opening of Floating Land at Boreen Point. He went from studying engineering to the fine arts and his discipline and approach to creating his work is unique.
Leroy Faure spent six years in the army, serving in Timor. His love of discipline, army regimentation and fitness guided him into his current career as a personal trainer. It’s true, that if you operate a business and you’re not online then your business or brand can only reach customers who walk in through your front door and your reach extends only to people you meet locally. The Fit Dad Lifestyle, created by Leroy, is an online training course which means Leroy’s brand extends around the globe.
Sue is featured as our inspiring person in the spring 2019 issue of IN Noosa Magazine. A few years ago, Sue was diagnosed with breast cancer and her experiences, within the public health system, exposed several gaps in the way women were being treated. As a result, Sue developed and launched an app called Just Diagnosed, that is now available on both Apple and Google Play.
Stew is a hairdresser who currently works at Pony Hair and Beauty Noosa. He’s a colourful Englishman who grew up in some of the roughest parts on the outskirts of London, places like Gravesend.In this podcast we talk about working your way up to the top of the football firm, street violence, survival, and the career and Australian soap that led him to Bondi and then onto Noosa.It’s a fascinating chat recorded in Pony’s new barber shop called SIR Barber Lounge
Wes Carr is better known as the winner of the sixth season of Australia Idol, however, his appearance on that reality show is only a small part his story. Wes is a real musician with genuine passion and knowledge of the artists that formed the building blocks of today’s popular music. He knows what it’s like to make a living as a working musician by gigging every night and he’s paid his dues in clubs and pubs across Australia.In this podcast we talk Beatles, writing with Don Walker, recording and releasing his music, his family and calling Noosa his new home.Wes has got a brand-new album coming out in September this year called This Thing Called Life and a show at the J Theatre Noosa on September.14.
Pete Goodlet is a local artist and landscape designer who has, as we mention early in the podcast you’re about to hear, many strings to his bow. He grew up with eight siblings in East Ivanhoe, Victoria and in this pod we talk about working with Jamie Durie, just as Jamie’s star was on the rise. We discuss coming out to his parents, the death of his mum recently, his kids, and we compare living in Noosa to other communities and places where Pete’s lived.
It’s not everyday that you get to sit down and have a conversation with the general manager of one of Noosa’s top restaurants.IN this podcast I speak with David Jouy from Rickys River Bar and Restaurant. We cover David’s hospitality journey from France to England and here in Australia. What’s the secret to managing creative staff like chefs? What influences are uniquely David’s on the way Rickys is run? We talk business plan, challenges and the role technology plays in hospitality these days.
Talking real estate is always popular, the last time we spoke to Adrian Reed from Reed & Co Real Estate Noosa, it was one of our most listened to podcasts. Since then, we’ve had a few different factors and events that may have had an impact on the property market. A federal election, an RBA cash rate cut and just where is Noosa Council at when it comes to their new Noosa Plan, potentially restricting short-term holiday letting to specially zoned areas.And that’s where we start this podcast.
You might recognise the name Tim Loydell from his time in Brisbane band The Deckchairs. In this podcast we talk about his involvement in that ‘lifestyle’ band, hitchhiking as a solo musician across Australia, settling a rough crowd in a Western Australian pub by playing Waltzing Matilda and we also explore the world of slam poetry.The pod starts with Tim's current role with Noosa Alive.
Statistically, 50% of couples, whether they’re in a marriage or a de facto relationship, separate every seven years and those figures have been like that for a long time now.In today’s podcast we talk to Kristy Perdriau, a divorce and separation strategist from DIV eX, who’s written a couple of books on the subject. The advice is general in nature however we cover some commonly asked questions when it comes to divorce and separation. The custody of children, is the family law court skewed towards woman when it comes to asset splits and custody? If so why? What happens to pets? Is my partner entitled to my superannuation?
Oz Bayldon is a rare breed. He’s a world record holder for a number of unique gigs, like the highest concert on land which happened in Nepal and he’s working on a few other record breaking plans, including the longest performance down the Amazon River in South America, and the craziest gig, which will include a performance on top of a hot air balloon.The question I can hear you asking is why?Oz has been a musician and an event and venue manager for over 20 years, most of that time in London, and he admits he lived a clichéd sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle until a trip to Nepal where he met a group of local children who’d been repeatedly, physically abused by their parents and gang members, and then the kids with their broken limbs, were made to beg for money on the streets.This was a life changing moment for Oz.
The popularity of craft beer has risen sharply around the world in the last decade and when talking to local brewers here in Australia, they’ll tell you that converting consumers from traditional, heritage beers and breweries to something new with a fancy label or can is one of the biggest challenges.I decided to venture out of podcast HQ. I charged the Conversations IN Noosa microphone and headed to Land & Sea Brewery on Venture Drive in Noosaville where I spoke to the man behind the operation, Tim Crabtree. Shane Fairweather is Tim’s Canadian import who heads up the brewery team, he also chimes in on the pod.In this podcast we talk all things beer, gin and whiskey, plus, Tim and I discuss the challenges of setting up an operation like Land & Sea.
Toni has always had a strong sense of justice which drove her to study law. She thought about a career in journalism while she was at school, she studied in Indonesia for twelve months and now is a driving force in the local arts community, involved in the Anywhere Festival, which is into its third year.Imagine seeing a performance on a Noosa Ferry while cruising the Noosa River or watching comedian Tim Ross perform in an award winning architecturally designed home. These are just two types of performances that make up the Anywhere Festival
Michele, from Oz Harvest hails from California. She graduated with a master’s degree in clinical psychology and a PhD in sociology. How did she end up in war torn places like Ethiopia, Afghanistan and Kosovo? On one occasion during a phone call to her mother Michele said, ‘It doesn’t matter whether I live or die because for the first time ever I feel like I’m living my life’.
Everyone loves talking real estate and there’s no hotter topic in Noosa than who bought where for what and predicting the next hot spots.The name Don Reed has been associated with the Noosa Real Estate market for a long time and Adrian Reed, Don’s son, from Reed & Co Real Estate is my guest on today’s podcast.If you own property that you rent out as a holiday rental or maybe you’ve had your home listed as an Air B’n’B, are you aware that there’s a potential massive game changer currently being examined by Noosa council that may stop you from renting your property out as a holiday rental? More on that in this podcast. Also, Adrian talks about the next growth suburb, where the big multi-million-dollar sales have happened and is Noosa a good place for residential property investors when compared to our capital Brisbane, an hour down the road?
Craig Argent was the knockabout son of a Tasmanian ship builder who ended up cutting and styling hair in a Beverly Hills salon and working on the sets of movies like Lord of the Rings and The Last Samurai. How did he do it? Who inspired him and how did a magazine cover shoot change his life?
There are around 7.7 billion people in the world today. Imagine an exclusive environment where only 20 people each year, compete in the highest level of a particular endeavour.Mark Webber was part of that environment for 12 years, and he topped the highest earning Australian sportsperson’s list in 2010, beating golfer Greg Norman who had been at the top of the list for 15 years.On his Instagram account, Mark describes himself as a country boy. We started the podcast talking about how he reflects on his journey from Queanbeyan NSW to standing on the top step of Formula One podiums all over the world, to what he’s doing today.
My next guest has been a journalist for many decades, many would remember him as a reporter on Seven Local News. He then took on a role as media advisor with controversial MP Peter Slipper, the former member for Fisher. Richard Bruinsma tells me that there were times when the avalanche of phone calls into Mr Slipper’s office was so great, that he was instructed not to answer the phones. We talk about Richard’s time with Mr Slipper in the podcast you’re about to hear as well as Richard’s own run at politics, where he ran as an independent for a state seat in 2017.
“In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes!” They were artist Andy Warhol’s words back in 1968. Almost 40 years before social media platforms allowed everyday people like you and I to share content with the rest of the world. Long before the term ‘Instafame’ was coined and decades before we’d ever heard of the Kardashian surname.Elora Murger or Elora Tahiti as she calls herself on Instagram is a former contestant on the Australian version of The Bachelor and Bachelor in Paradise and she’s my next guest on Conversations IN Noosa.In this pod we talk about growing up in Tahiti, what really goes on behind the scenes of a reality TV show, being Instafamous and can you really make a living from being a social media influencer?
Unless you’ve served, or you’re part of a family that has members who have served in the military in an active war zone, then your everyday day life is very, very different from the life that my next guest has led. He was a commando in the Australian Army intercepting enemy communications, performing two tours of duty in Afghanistan, one in 2007 and again in 2009 when one of the vehicles he was in, ran over a roadside bomb.In this podcast Andy Fermo speaks openly and honestly about his military career, his PTSD, and what life is like, living in Noosa these days with his wife Claire and two kids.
Katie Noonan has one of those voices that leaves an indelible mark on your soul once you’ve experienced it. In this podcast we talk about growing up in a home that was brimming with music, the band George that she formed with her brother, Tyrone, her role as Musical Director of the opening and closing ceremonies at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and her role as Artistic Director of the Queensland Music Festival. Plus, what better gift to give kids, than the opportunity to make music with your friends. Katie’s project School of Rock now enters its third year.
A reoccurring topic on this podcast has been the subject of moving away or abandoning a corporate lifestyle, chasing the ‘money gods’, as today’s guest says, and living a more meaningful life doing the things that add value to you and your lifestyle. Anne Harris has done exactly that. Anne is from Tree Place and she has an exhibition currently underway at the Noosa Regional Gallery with a comprehensive guide now available in the summer 2018 edition of IN Noosa Magazine, which is out now.This podcast traces Anne’s childhood, from growing up alongside indigenous communities in Arnhem Land, discovering her passion for art, living the corporate life in Sydney and then relocating to Noosa.
I knew nothing of Renate Luca’s life however what unfolded in the podcast you’re about to hear is an open, honest, emotional journey that covers Renate’s childhood from when she was given up for adoption, meeting her biological mother, coming out and fighting for her rights to be gay and then changing her sexuality to marry her current partner Roberto, who also had lived an openly gay life. We discuss how she’s lost friends along the way who disagree with her belief that sexuality is a choice and we talk about raising kids.
Imagine leaving home at the age of 14 to pursue a dream of a life at sea. That’s exactly what my next guest did. In this podcast Andrew Leak and I talk about the exotic locations he visited while with the merchant navy, becoming a salesman for Sanyo, meeting his wife, and his current role as flotilla commander of the Coast Guard in Noosa. Meeting a yearly funding shortfall of around $270,000 is one part of his job and Andrew is thankful to his two major supporters, Tom Offermann Real Estate and Bendigo Bank.
Brendan is a dad of two boys who prefers to lead by example rather than simply dictate. He recently completed 10 consecutive days, two kilometres offshore swimming more than 110 kilometres all for charity. Make yourself a cuppa, pour a glass of wine or crack a beer and enjoy being a ‘fly on the wall’ as we talk Buddhist minimalism, raising boys, growing up in Papua New Guinea and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone
Bodo has run small businesses in north Queensland and he’s the founding director of Yes Insurance Solutions based in Noosa. He was part of a six-man outrigger team that took part in the grueling Yukon River Quest back in 2012, surviving a flipped canoe and hypothermia, in the wild mountainous Yukon territory in northwest Canada. A 41-hour paddle over 715 kilometers from Whitehorse to Dawson City.We’ll hear all about that test of endurance and how his teamed fared up against an outrigger team from America in this podcast.
How does the daughter of Philippine migrants end up producing rosellas on a property in South East Queensland? Cecilia Diaz-Petersen, or CC as she’s known to her friends and fellow producers, was a hardworking daughter, along with her brother, in her family’s small business back in the Philippines. Moving to regional NSW was a culture shock for CC and it was only when she joined the NAB in Sydney did she start to feel comfortable with her new surroundings. I spoke to CC at a Slow Food Noosa breakfast where delegates had just returned from the big Slow Food Festival, Terra Madre, in Turin. They’d shared stories of their adventures in Italy and I started this podcast with Cecilia by getting a sense of just how big a year 2018 has been for her and her husband Greg
I’ve known Frank for over a decade. He’s an individual with many ‘strings to his bow’ and I’ve always admired his passion and commitment. He’s a councillor and deputy Mayor of Noosa Council, he’s a performer and playwright and he’s a devoted dad and fitness fanatic.In this podcast we cover a lot of ground. Frank grew up in the same Brisbane suburb and street as Keith Urban, and Frank could see a superstar of the future in the making. We discuss Frank’s local government career, his teaching and his work as a journalist
If you were discussing great early explorers you’d probably use words like, fearless, courageous and determine. They’re all words you can use to describe Heather Mills. Heather is a septuagenarian with an adventurous spirit who has recently returned from back packing in Jordan. In this podcast we talk about the international travellers she’s met during her hostel stays, accidentally deleting all of her photos at the top of a mountain she’d just conquered in India, an archaeological dig she was part of when she was 22 and her ancestral connections to some early Queensland pioneers.
It’s not every day that you sit opposite someone with remarkable stories of survival. As you’ll hear in this podcast, Suzie Smeed cheated death three times before she was six years old. Her parents fled Budapest during the second world war and her grandparents were killed in Auschwitz. Suzie’s family arrived in Australia in 1949 and Suzie says she was bullied at school because she was a refugee. These days she’s part of Courage to Care, where she speaks to school kids about her experiences. If you’ve had what you consider a tough day at work today, or maybe you’re worried or down about money, relationships or life in general. This podcast just might help put your life into perspective
Erin has travelled and worked in New Zealand, Wales and now Australia. She was a real estate agent who experienced earthquake scares with her family in Christchurch, she has an infrastructure background from when she was married to a Welshman in Wales. We’ll hear about a real estate investment in Bulgaria that turned sour, her new career path with Jam Social Media and we’ll get Erin’s top three social media tips for small businesses.
Jodie is a great example of someone who has had a lifelong connection to the place where she was born and despite its size and geographic location she’s managed to build a very successful business that now employs 20 staff. Jodie Williams from Black Ant Gourmet and Kin Kin General Store is now even considering a ‘tiny homes’ project in the area for a number of reasons and we talk about that in this podcast. You’ll also hear about Terra Madre in Turin Italy, Jodie’s involvement with Slow Food Noosa and we discuss her scientific approach to preparing food in her kitchen.Jodie is also one of these very rare people who can say that they were born and raised, IN Noosa.
The story behind the Fry Family Food business is remarkable. From modest beginnings in South Africa where Tammy Fry’s father worked as a goat and pig farmer, to an organisation, now based at Sunshine Beach Queensland, that supplies vegan food to outlets globally.In this podcast Tammy and I talk about diet, fasting and the effect it has on your body. There’s the husband who was a hunter who is now a vegetarian. We talk about the car-jacking that Tammy survived, teaching women all about self-defence and where to next for the family business.
Caroline recently celebrated two important milestones. She turned 50, and she marked her 20th anniversary as breakfast radio co-host on Mix FM, Sunshine Coast. You’ll hear Caroline Hutchinson explain, that there may only be one or two other female presenters in Australia that could match her 20-year record, we also talk about her brief foray into politics, when she ran as an independent candidate in the federal seat of Fisher against Peter Slipper and why she’d never do it again. We talk about her Sydney radio days when she was working multiple jobs while her husband John was recovering from a battle with cancer and we discuss why she has grave fears for the future of radio when she sees 10-year old kids.
Ron has lived a rich and colourful life as a projectionist, theatre owner, organ player and film fanatic. He played an integral role in getting the travelling film festival, out of Sydney, to Queensland in the early ‘70s, and he helped establish the Majestic Theatre’s reputation as a must visit destination in Pomona, with tourists from as far as Texas in North America, coming to visit.
Ali is a young musician with big dreams. Influenced by the music she heard growing up, she created vision boards of where she wanted to go with plans on how she was going to get there. If you’re a young musician starting out or maybe your kids are, Ali tells us about self-funding her first EP and music video clip, song writing workshops, performing live, getting your music on digital platforms and heading to Nashville to make connections.
'Fox' was born in Columbia, schooled in Scotland, worked as a clown, lived as a hippie, and then worked in local government in Queensland.In this podcast Alan 'Fox' Rogers and I talk about boarding school, music festivals, the secret to raising high achieving kids, the next great Australian novel and exactly how he ended up with the nick name Fox!
If you think life has dealt you a bad hand, then this next podcast is a must listen for you. Helen Peel is a successful artist who’s known for her sense of colour and dedication to her work. She’s also the kind of person who no matter what challenges are thrown her way, manages to rise above the circumstances with great determination and commitment. In this podcast you’ll hear Helen talk about miscarrying her son, her first husband who left her penniless, fighting bowel cancer and working five jobs to simply make ends meet. It’s a great story.
Estonia is a Baltic country smaller than Tasmania with a population of around 1.3 million people. Erika Hackett’s parents fled Estonia looking to make a new life and to raise a family in a new country. In this podcast we talk about Erika’s early life as a model and stock broker, re-visiting the country her family fled from, walking the Camino and the work she does as President of Slow Food Noosa.
Tomi is a long-haired, long-bearded, tattooed lad from Gympie Queensland who grew up listening to punk music. He also has an infectious personality and you can’t help but like the bloke. Tomi is the kind of guy you tell other mates about. In this podcast we talk about his biker dad, barbering at Scumbags, tattoos, music, history, a wedding in Scotland and his traditional English mum from Birmingham.
Have you ever felt like you’re living your life according to other people’s expectations? The degree you’re studying for, the career you’ve chosen or the lifestyle that you’re living? It happened to Elisa Hurtado. Even though Elisa was studying law, modelling in exotic locations, and helping to run a string of restaurants, she felt that those choices weren’t fulfilling her on a number of levels. So, what did she do? The answers are in the podcast
When you work on television there’s a familiarity and imaginary relationship that’s fostered between presenter, host or actor, and viewer. The reality is that a lot of what is happening behind the scenes or in private, is often kept private and the viewer is none the wiser. That’s certainly the case with my next guest, Rosanna Natoli. In this podcast, we talk about her television career and the changing face of journalism, her marriage to former Maroochy Shire Mayor Joe Natoli, the highs and the lows, including the six months of her life where it just seemed to go all wrong.
You’d describe 'Fletch' as a typical larrikin Aussie bloke who loved his footy and liked to party. He played semi-professional footy, travelling from Victoria to the Northern Territory, working as a butcher, slaughter-man, and bouncer. These days he's a vegan who meditates, who believes in the self-healing power of good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.In this podcast, we talk about growing up in Hamilton, running a personal fitness business, Fletch Fitness, and couching the Noosa Tigers to a couple of premiership flags.
Chad grew up in San Jose, spending most of his childhood by the ocean. He served in the US Navy, studied marine biology, and his goal these days is to eliminate plastic in our community. In this podcast, we talk about Chad’s journey from California to Queensland, his time in the Navy, volunteering at an aquarium and Plastic Free Noosa.
Glen was a Brisbane boy who represented the state seat of Noosa as a Liberal MP. Radio was his first love, scoring a job at 4IP Brisbane half way through radio school followed by stints at Mt Isa, Warwick and Gympie before playing politics. In this podcast we talk about political careers and how they only ever end in a brutal fashion, Glen’s early radio days and why sustainable growth in Noosa is good for everyone.
Brad has worked in film as a director and producer, he’s been a journalist, broadcaster, and businessman. His passion for radio wasn’t simply a desire to work for a radio station, Brad wanted to own the station. This podcast offers an interesting insight into what it was like for Brad to raise the capital to purchase his own radio stations and to streamline those operations so that they became profitable businesses. We also talk about how the global financial crisis, two major floods and a cyclone impacted on Brad Smart’s regional radio network. Whether you’re someone who has worked in the radio industry or simply an entrepreneur or businessperson interested in strategy, risk mitigation, planning and business models, I hope you enjoy this podcast.
Marcus grew up in Kent in the United Kingdom and he travelled extensively across Australia when he was 19. It was a place where he wanted to return to live someday. He owned and ran a pub when he saw an article in the newspaper looking for chefs to come and work in Australia. These days he’s the head chef at Wood Fire Grill, Noosa and we started the podcast by talking about who’s in charge of meals in the Denby family home.
Carolyn has been a palliative care nurse for nearly 30 years and she says she’s witnessed thousands of deaths during her professional nursing career. For the last few months, she’s been performing as a stand-up comedian and I wanted to know whether this was simply an outlet and coping mechanism away from the pressures of living a nurse’s life.
Carolyn ran her own business as a pharmacist, worked in the NSW health department and was progressively headhunted, traveling extensively throughout Asia representing pharmaceutical company Pfizer. Carolyn Winkler now calls Noosa home and the last couple of years has sadly been filled with loss and grief, losing both her daughter and her husband. In this podcast, we talk about coping with loss, support networks, running a small business and new beginnings.
Living with fatigue can feel lonely and it can be isolating. Imagine dedicating your life to a sport that requires peak physical fitness and stamina while at the same time managing your tired muscles and mind. Pete Jacobs has been living with fatigue since he was a young teenager and in 2012 he was crowned Ironman World Champion in Hawaii. How did he do it? In this podcast, we’ll follow Pete’s journey from the northern beaches of Sydney to Noosa and discover what it took for Pete Jacobs to accomplish and conquer his biggest goal. We also talk about his new project Live Your Own Fit.
By any measure, Hilary has lived a very interesting life. She was born in Ireland, learned to sing in London, painted sets in Africa and often, would perform up to 200 shows a year when she lived in Berlin. Hilary plays the harp, sings opera and is currently penning her memoir.
Greg had a desire to work in radio from a very young age however he admits that he didn’t have the ‘gift of the gab’, preferring to work behind the scenes instead of in front of a microphone. Was Greg simply in the right place at the right time or was it his interest in the research and strategic side of radio that landed him at the forefront of what would become a major game changer in the way that radio stations were run in this country. In this podcast, we talk about the challenges that radio faces today up against content on-demand platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Has Australia missed the boat when it comes to DAB+? And what should radio networks be doing with their spare digital channels? The discovery of Kyle Sandilands in Darwin, Jeff Allis and Boost Juice and the book Thick Face, Black Heart.
Billy is from just outside Glasgow and from all descriptions, it was certainly a tough place for a kid to grow up in. In this podcast, you’ll hear about Billy’s never say die attitude. He’s the kind of bloke who rolls with the punches, dusts himself off and keeps moving forward. On his arm are tattooed the words “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”. This podcast holds great inspirational lessons for anyone who runs their own business or for those who simply want to live the best life they can. Billy is co-owner and operator of FTA Noosa.
Michael is a new arrival to Noosa, Queensland. He ran his own gallery in Footscray, Melbourne and then added curator to his resume before jumping at the opportunity to become the director at the Noosa Regional Gallery. He grew up in the outer Melbourne suburb of Sunbury in a house that his parents won in a local newspaper competition and his fondest memories are of his father, writing poetry and printing his own books at home. In this podcast we talk about freedom of speech, burning the Australian flag and being questioned by the police for a piece that was displayed in his gallery that some found offensive.
Yenny describes herself as a life thriver. Have you heard that term before? If not, listening to Yenny talk passionately about her travel, photography, podcast, land paddling and general love of life might paint you a clearer picture of exactly what a life thriver is. And how did she end up in Noosa, Queensland, having been born and raised in Sweden?
It’s hard to categorise John. He was a reality TV contestant on The Biggest Loser, he worked as a bouncer at Melbourne nightclubs and pubs in the thriving pub rock scene of the late ‘70s and ‘80s when bands like Midnight Oil, The Angels, Noiseworks and The Uncanny X Men were all making a name for themselves. He tells me as a bouncer he was shot at and stabbed. He’s worked in retail and these days he owns his own gym, Jetts Noosa. John Morrall is passionate about business and passing on what he knows and understands about the game.
Growing up as a young boy with a passion for art, in a big country town in the ‘60s, meant that Lew felt somewhat like an outsider. People kept telling him that he was different, and he says that he struggled with the school system from year 4 onwards. Those challenges, however, didn’t stop Lew from becoming a community leader, a local government councillor, and a much sort after artist. If you’re familiar with Lew’s art, you know that it is extremely intricate and detailed. It’s a passion that he is committed to daily, working away in his private space on his property in Cooran.
Do you love beer? Do you brew your own? Maybe you’ve been a long-term fan of mass-produced, traditional amber liquid, and you’ve been satisfied with that. Craft or independently brewed beer just might open up a world of flavours and experiences you never thought possible. Josh Donohoe is a beer fanatic, and his love of beer was the catalyst for the creation of Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tours. Bottoms up!
Katja has the kind of accent that’s hard to pick. Her mum was from Finland and Katja was raised in a small place called Formello just outside of Rome in Italy. Photography, travel, wildlife, cooking and the environment are all things that Katja is passionate about. In this podcast we cover all of those subjects and more; and is there a secret to photographing food correctly? A topic for those of us who like posting food pics on Instagram & Facebook.
Johnny, from Noosaville based online clothing retailer Boom Shankar, has always had an adventurous spirit. Heading off into the Colorado mountains to spend the night camping when he was a kid with a group of his friends was common. From ski resorts to water sports, Johnny has always believed that a healthy body equals a healthy mind and ultimately that makes you a better business person. How did he end up in Noosa? Who in the business and entrepreneurial world does he admire and why? What forms the foundations of his business and marketing strategies and what plans are there for Boom Shanker to expand into the US market? The answers are in the pod!
Mark’s dad was a Queensland policeman, so his family moved about often. The kids developed the ability to make new friends quickly and Mark says that some of his fondest memories were spent in remote parts of the state. As a petroleum geologist, Mark gets to spend a lot of time in the great outdoors. He’s an advocate of alternative energy sources, setting his own home up completely off the grid, however, he does still see an environmental cost with things like the manufacturing of lithium batteries and the amount of plastics that go into the construction of say an electric car. In this podcast, we talk about the finite resources that lie beneath our feet. The legacy we’ll leave our kids, alternative energy sources and why we still need to do more.
June was a businessperson who for a long time, ignored the signs and what her body & brain were telling her, to continue to invest in her professional life. Without a balanced work/life existence, her health took a serious hit. Unhappiness, depression and then cancer and on top of that a loss in the family. It was time to re-evaluate her life, re-discover her identity and chart a new course in an environment that would nurture her body and her soul
"Women share in a very different way to men. Women have a deep understanding of their stories and I can see it in the way they produce art" - Alicia Sharples, co-ordinator Butter Factory Arts Centre. In this podcast we talk, art, inspiration, exhibitions, travel, homeschooling kids and how Alicia coped with the death of her mum who was in a coma for six years.
Matt has been a drag performer for almost 30 years, starting in Melbourne back in the 80s. He grew up on the outskirts of Melbourne with a desire to always entertain others. He came out to his mum when he was in his early teens however he says that the pressures he put on himself were the biggest challenges to deal with. Matt is involved with the Sunshine Coast Pride Festival, the Rainbow Formal, RSPCA, and the Million Paws walk. Plus, he cares full time for his partner while still performing three to four times a week..
Jon talks about growing up in New York City, getting your foot in the door in the movie business, the highs and lows of the film industry, meeting his Australian wife, moving to Noosa and a renewed passion for scriptwriting.
Sam Coward doesn’t believe in “having something to fall back on” when it comes to his career. It’s an all or nothing approach for Sam whose passion has always been to perform. His choices may not have always had his father’s blessing, however, Sam’s involvement in theatre has led onto film roles and now a successful breakfast radio show on Hot 91. Sam talks about the first time his father came to see him in a stage production, and why they never spoke for six months after that event, starting out in radio and the car crash that could have easily ended his life
This podcast is about men’s mental health issues from someone who has travelled that road and worked with other men who, all too often, are reluctant to talk about what’s going on inside them. We talk about the effects of anti-depressants, how quick doctors are to prescribe them, and the culture that surrounds men that prohibits them from truly expressing how they feel.
Giuseppe left Italy together with his family in 1967 unaware his father had organised an arranged marriage for his sister. Giuseppe's passion was always music and once in Australia that passion drew him into a copyright battle with the government, importing vinyl from overseas and eventually establishing Central Station Records in Melbourne. His entrepreneurial spirit, together with his partner Morgan Williams, saw them launch a line of clothing off the back of the brand as the business continued to build. These days they call Black Mountian, in the Noosa hinterland, home where they work on their other passion, conservation and the protection of the environment.
If you ask Sandy Bolton how she felt understanding that her father walked away from her mum, leaving four children behind, she’ll tell you that you never miss what you never know. Sandy’s resilience and determination have been part of her character from when she was very young, right through to when she was elected as the first-ever female councilor in the newly de-amalgamated Noosa Council, to her current position as an independent MP representing the state government seat of Noosa. What makes Sandy Bolton tick? Why a life in public office? Download the podcast NOW
Getting fired from her job was the best thing that ever happened to Katie Johnston. It was the catalyst that started Eco Bling, a range of planet-friendly fashion accessories, with a global customer base. How do you build a successful business from nothing? What are Katie’s most effective marketing tools? What was the advice that her six mentors gave her? Where to next? Listen to the podcast for the answers.
JV has done it all. He's been a high profile sports presenter across Queensland for 7 Local News, the CEO of the Sunshine Coast Sea Eagles rugby league team, he managed the Yandina Flyer, Chris Vermeulen, during his brief stint with Moto GP and now he runs his own successful business in Noosa.
"No woman I know is happy with their body. Every woman has body image issues. I wouldn’t believe it if a woman said she didn’t." - Carlie Wacker
"Everyone was nervous when Mugabe took over, fearing massive changes and retaliation against the whites" - Ian Pugh
Holly Pittman is a Canadian whose love of traveling was sparked by an interest in reading and in film. She's the president of the Noosa Film Society and also involved in the annual Noosa International Film Festival which is now into its third year.
Jon talks about his years with Brisbane band Powderfinger, the end of the band and the start of a new career as a journalist.
Chef Matt Golinski opens up about losing his family, his motivation to keep going, new beginnings, cooking, his garage band, and motorcycles.
Outback Australian adventurer's, The Gall Boys have been holidaying in Noosa each summer for nearly four decades. What's changed, if anything, and is the fishing still good?
Imagine building a business from scratch and asking people to invest in thin air? Deb Caruso has always wanted to create a community where locals could come together to inspire, indulge and inform. Launching a new publication was challenging, however, the business has survived and in 2018 enters its fifth year.