Best Kintsugi Heroes Podcasts (2025)

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Facing ADHD, anger, and finding strength in helping others with Lance Burdett 1:02:31

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3d ago1:02:31

1:02:31

Lance grew up moving often, with a tough childhood and feelings of not fitting in. He struggled at school, found it hard to make friends and often felt alone. Early on, Lance showed signs of ADHD and anger, feeling out of place and hearing constant criticism which shaped his self-belief and experience at home and school. He started work young, taki…

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The path to healing and self-empowerment with Caroline Brunne • Animals & Us E16 1:10:50

25m ago1:10:50

1:10:50

Caroline Brunne grew up in a large, fun-loving, close-knit Mauritian family in Australia. At age ten, she experienced four years of abuse by a family member, learning early about trauma responses like fawning and shrinking herself to stay safe in her own home. During her teens, Caroline struggled to cope and kept her secret for years. At 16, she di…

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The Power of Sport to Rebuild: How Roman Abasy Champions Refugee Integration Through Sport 32:33

16h ago32:33

32:33

In this podcast episode, Roman Abasy shares his inspiring journey from Afghanistan to Australia as a refugee and human rights advocate. He discusses his background as a Taekwondo champion, his transition to advocating for women's rights in sports, and the challenges he faced adapting to a new culture. Roman emphasizes the importance of sports in he…

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Finding strength after setbacks with Mark Berridge 1:29:12

3d ago1:29:12

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Mark grew up in Albany in WA, enjoying nature and learning from his schoolteacher parents, who blended creativity, resilience and the support that shaped his values and curiosity. After finishing high school, he went on to university in Perth, where he made lifelong friends. Mark began a corporate career in logistics and sales, working for Rio Tint…

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Navigating love, loss, and mental health through faith, determination, and strength with Nicole Peterson 1:49:35

7d ago1:49:35

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Nicole grew up in a loving family in Cape Town, South Africa before moving to Australia with her parents and siblings at the end of high school. Nicole met her husband Chris in her early twenties, married young, and together navigated early adventures including running a café and art gallery in Hawk’s Nest. After starting her family, she devoted he…

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Learning to live a life free of limits with Michael Hingson • Animals & Us E15 51:02

8d ago51:02

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Michael was born blind and grew up in Chicago and California. His early years lacked access to braille, but he learned math in his head and stayed curious about science. Michael got proper braille education in fourth grade. With his mother’s support and a new resource teacher, he caught up in school, joined the Boy Scouts, and developed skills in l…

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Becoming My Self: Rugare Gomo on Owning Identity, Creating Safe Spaces, Asking for Help, and Pursuing Freedom 1:11:46

12d ago1:11:46

1:11:46

In this episode, host Emma Bellamy-Dodd speaks with Rugare Gomo, author, leadership coach, and Zimbabwean-born migrant, about his journey toward embracing his authentic self in Australia. Rugare discusses growing up under strict societal and cultural expectations, navigating identity as a gay Black African man, and overcoming years of statelessness…

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From saddle making to global tech leadership with John Dwyer 1:10:46

14d ago1:10:46

1:10:46

John Dwyer left school at age fourteen and started as an apprentice saddle maker. While working in leather, John became interested in computers. He taught himself basic programming on early computers and helped computerize the factory. This growing interest led to a new direction in technology. John joined the tech industry in the early 1980s. He s…

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Breaking free from abuse and hardship, a journey of courage, growth, and hope unfolds with David Lee 58:42

1M ago58:42

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Dave grew up in Maroubra, a tough part of Sydney, raised by a single mother in an environment of poverty and violence, surrounded by people with difficult ideas and constant stress. His early childhood memories include feeling unsafe at home due to a father who left early and a mother who struggled with her own challenges after a troubled upbringin…

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Building awareness and advocating for wildlife with Sandy Steers • Animals & Us E14 33:52

24d ago33:52

33:52

Sandy Steers is a biologist, energy healer, writer, and entrepreneur. With a degree in biology, she has led 14 trips to the Galapagos Islands; run the environmental educational nonprofit, Friends of Big Bear Valley, for 24 years; and written hundreds of high-engagement educational social media posts describing the lives of the local bald eagles. Du…

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Navigating Mental Health in Refugee Populations: A Conversation with Nooria Mehraby 1:10:13

29d ago1:10:13

1:10:13

In this conversation, Nooria Mehraby shares her profound journey from being a refugee to becoming a clinician and advocate for mental health among refugees. She discusses the traumatic experiences of fleeing Afghanistan, her life in refugee camps in Pakistan, and the challenges of resettling in Australia. Drawing on her personal and professional ex…

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From grief to purpose and creating change with Craig Goozee OAM 54:31

1M ago54:31

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Craig Goozee OAM grew up loving sport, always seeing himself as a sprinter and never dreaming he would one day run ultra marathons across some of Australia’s toughest terrains. Craig spent nearly 24 years in the New South Wales police force, choosing proactive roles that kept him out in the field and, later, in covert operations such as the Anti-Th…

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Embracing vulnerability and supporting men's mental health with John Broadbent 1:17:09

2M ago1:17:09

1:17:09

John Broadbent grew up in Yorkshire, born into a low working-class family, before moving to Australia at age ten, which marked a big turning point for his life and perspective. He trained as an engineer and fully immersed himself in the world of science and logic, John spent his early career excelling in a technical environment, sometimes missing t…

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Finding hope through adopting a pet with Michael de Haan • Animals & Us E13 30:25

1M ago30:25

30:25

In this episode of Animals and Us, we’re joined by Michael de Haan – a Certified Money Behaviour Coach, author, and former financial planner – who shares a deeply personal story about finding purpose and healing through the bond with his rescue dog, Missy. Michael has spent over 25 years in the financial services sector, where he now focuses on coa…

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Navigating Code-Switching, Empathy Limitations, the Pressure to Be Grateful and the Complexities of Belonging: Mish Kumar-Jonson on Migrant Healing 1:16:04

2M ago1:16:04

1:16:04

In this episode of From There to Here, host Emma Bellamy-Dodd sits down with Mish Kumar-Jonson - a queer, non-binary, neurodivergent South Indian migrant who has called India, Oman, France, the US, New Zealand, and Australia home. Mish shares a deeply personal and insightful journey through multiple migrations, exploring how cultural identity is sh…

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Breaking generational cycles, healing anxiety, and reshaping masculinity with Gunter Swaboda 59:59

2M ago59:59

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Gunter grew up in a home filled with conflict and the strong influence of a mother who survived complex trauma and a gentle but wounded father, both from Vienna during the Russian invasion. As a teenager, he became fascinated by philosophy and Buddhism, which helped him realize that being a man involves intention and not just reacting to the world …

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How to Navigate Migration as an Introvert: Embrace Your Quiet Strenghts with Serena Low 41:25

2M ago41:25

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In this episode, Serena Lowe shares her journey as an introverted migrant from Singapore to Australia. She discusses the challenges and strengths of being an introvert in a new culture, the importance of community, and how to embrace one's introverted nature. Serena emphasizes the need for self-acceptance and the value of quiet strengths in a world…

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Raising standards in swim education and therapy with Ruth Smith 43:36

2M ago43:36

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Growing up as a farmer’s daughter in rural Australia, Ruth spent her childhood exploring creeks, drinking fresh milk, and roaming the paddocks with my siblings. Life was simple, honest, and deeply connected to the land and community. She developed a passion for water early, competing in state-level swimming, water polo, synchronised swimming and li…

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Farming with respect for animals and land with Dr Nan Bray • Animals & Us E12 57:14

2M ago57:14

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In this episode of Animals and Us, we’re joined by Dr Nan Bray – marine scientist turned ethical wool producer – who’s redefining what it means to care for both animals and the land. Based in the Tasmanian highlands, Nan runs White Gum Wool, a farm where sheep are not just livestock but respected members of a social and ecological community. Nan sh…

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Thriving through disaster thanks to community support with Mark Leigh • River Murray Recovery Stories E16 44:22

2M ago44:22

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Mark grew up visiting the river and eventually moved with his family to the banks of the Murray for a relaxed country lifestyle. He became part of a small, friendly community where people help each other, and boating is part of everyday life for locals and visitors alike. Mark’s kids thrived in a tiny school, and the family enjoyed close ties, with…

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The Power of Bilingualism: A Conversation with Antonella Sorace 47:33

2M ago47:33

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In this episode, Antonella Sorace, Director of Bilingualism Matters, joins the host to share her personal journey and dispel common myths about bilingualism. Together, they explore how bilingualism shapes identity and fosters adaptability, with Antonella explaining that while bilinguals often feel “in between” cultures, this very adaptability is a …

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Finding purpose during adversity thanks to community support with Adrian 'Moose' Skeggs 38:16

2M ago38:16

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Adrian “Moose” Skeggs was born and raised on Lord Howe Island, a small, close-knit place he calls absolutely idyllic and full of daily adventures and learning. Adrian faced a tough start. His mother was bedridden for years, and he often pushed boundaries, seeking attention and connection from his community. Despite childhood challenges and going of…

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Building a home on the Murray River with Adele Johnson • River Murray Recovery Stories E15 40:07

2M ago40:07

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As a child, Adele visited the Pyatt river settlement with family friends, creating lasting memories of carefree days spent exploring the land and water, deeply connecting to the Murray River. In 2015, Adele and her family purchased the property, transforming it into their home. Embracing the rural lifestyle, she balanced work as a baker with life o…

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From Somalia to Australia: Abdi Aden’s Lessons in Resilience as a Former Refugee 47:43

2M ago47:43

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In this episode, Abdi Aden shares his incredible journey from Somalia to Australia, detailing the impact of the civil war on his life and the challenges he faced as a refugee. He discusses how he found purpose through motivational speaking, the challenges he faced due to societal expectations and discrimination, and how he overcame them by embracin…

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Danni’s Story: From Grief to Supporting Others as an End-of-Life Doula 1:13:50

2M ago1:13:50

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Danni started her working life as a police officer where she saw death early but rarely spoke about it and learned firsthand about the challenges of facing mortality. Danni also dealt with the deaths of several family members and often became the person responsible for bringing people together and supporting her family through loss. She experienced…

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Recognising the importance of animals in war with Nigel Allsopp • Animals & Us E11 44:16

2M ago44:16

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In this episode of Animals and Us, we’re joined by Nigel Allsopp – military veteran, former police dog handler, historian, author, and President of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation. Nigel’s career spans more than three decades across New Zealand and Australian military and police forces, with deep expertise in canine operations and a…

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Conveying calm communications amid rising waters with Stephanie Brookes • River Murray Recovery Stories E14 54:53

2M ago54:53

54:53

Stephanie grew up in Dublin, Ireland, where she explored her interest in consumer behaviour and marketing. She studied wine and its emotional connections, learning the importance of storytelling in people’s lives. She moved to the Riverland in 2012 and fell in love with the region especially the River Murray. She is married to a local wine maker wi…

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Requalifying as a Veterinarian: Natalia Gomez’s Journey From Colombia to Australia 46:40

3M ago46:40

46:40

In this conversation, Natalia Gomez shares her transformative journey from Colombia to Australia, discussing her motivations for leaving her home country, including the cultural dissonance she experienced with Colombia’s ‘machista’ norms. She recounts the challenges of securing a skill-aligned job, preparing for the Australia Veterinary Exam, and r…

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Learning how to value yourself with Kat Finnerty 49:04

3M ago49:04

49:04

Kat Finnerty grew up as the eldest of five children in a multicultural family. Her upbringing taught her resilience and responsibility, shaping her perspective on life from a young age. At twelve, Kat lost her mother to cancer. This experience deeply influenced her understanding of impermanence, grief, and the importance of finding meaning during d…

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Rebuilding a home and advocating for clearer communication with Graham Radford • River Murray Recovery Stories E13 56:28

3M ago56:28

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Graham arrived to live on the Murray in 2010 after a life as a multi-generation landowner and farmer elsewhere in the region. He describes rural self-reliance, and both the strengths and challenges of small-town community dynamics during crises. His first-hand experiences with flood preparation, with the help of his family, what worked, what didn’t…

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When Gloria Tabi Took the Wig Off and Found Enough 59:48

3M ago59:48

59:48

In this episode, Emma Bellamy-Dodd interviews Gloria Tabi, founder of Everyday inclusion and Enable Women Africa, about her journey from Ghana to Australia and her fight against systemic racism. Gloria shares how colonial legacies and the search for opportunity shaped her migration, and describes the invisible barriers she faced in Australia’s work…

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Serving the community, and the importance of blood donations with John Breda 1:13:44

3M ago1:13:44

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John grew up in the western suburbs near Parramatta, playing footy, learning a trade as a sparky and always wanting to become a police officer, inspired by his grandfather’s advice. His early lessons in communication as a sparky on job sites shaped how he approached policing and helped him connect with others. In 1997, John joined the police. He wo…

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How you can learn from the wisdom of wolves with Dr Amanda Beer • Animals & Us E10 1:00:56

3M ago1:00:56

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In this episode of Animals and Us, Natalie speaks with Dr Amanda Beer, licensed psychologist, educator, and Executive Director of Wolf Connection – a sanctuary and wilderness retreat in California where rescued wolves play a vital role in trauma recovery and personal transformation. Amanda’s work sits at the intersection of clinical psychology and …

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Building a community workforce with Anthony Winter & Brenton Jinks • River Murray Recovery Stories E12 50:28

3M ago50:28

50:28

Anthony Winter and Brenton Jinks are highly experienced local tradies and community service co-ordinators who have worked for the South Australian Corrections Department for over 16 years. During the 2022-3 Murray River Floods they taught practical trade skills to prisoners, from the safe use of tools to teamwork. They helped participants gain conf…

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From Refugee to Women’s Advocate: Maryam's Inspiring Journey 36:03

3M ago36:03

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In this insightful episode, Maryam Zahid shares her powerful journey from being a refugee in Afghanistan to becoming a community leader and advocate for women's rights in Australia. She reflects on her childhood experiences during the war, the challenges of resettling in a new country, and her mission to empower Afghan women. Through her work, she …

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Serena’s Journey: Embracing Quiet Strength to Inspire Other Introverts 1:02:57

3M ago1:02:57

1:02:57

Serena grew up in Singapore in a home that valued stability, achievement and following a well-planned path. She studied law for its prestige and structure, later working as a lawyer for the government. After years in a secure career, Serena realised she felt trapped by expectations and began questioning her purpose. Taking time away from work to re…

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Servicing the community's needs and planning for the future with David Hassett • River Murray Recovery Stories E11 54:14

3M ago54:14

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David has made the River Murray his home since 1989, forming a deep bond with the land and its dynamic environment. Over 30 years, David’s involvement in the Mid-Murray region deepened, fuelled by his passion for roads and infrastructure. Seven years ago, David returned to the Mid-Murray area, bringing his expertise to the council as Director of In…

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Helping Refugees Overcome Trauma Through Storytelling & Drama Therapy: A Conversation with Catherine Maguire-Donvito 44:49

3M ago44:49

44:49

In this conversation, Catherine Maguire-Donvito, Co-founder and Director of Treehouse Theatre, shares the program’s unique approach to supporting refugee adolescents through storytelling and theatrical performance. The initiative is designed to facilitate trauma recovery and raise awareness about the refugee experience among high school students. C…

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Lyn Gregory’s Journey from Mormonism to Discovering her True Spirituality 51:42

3M ago51:42

51:42

Lynn grew up in a large, devoted Mormon family, deeply connected to her great great grandfather, Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon church, and shaped by strong traditions and high expectations. As a child, Lynn worked hard in school, followed strict family rules, and tried to live up to the “Mormon royalty” label placed on her by her community. T…

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How pets can become a reminder that life is worth living with Rachael McDermott • Animals & Us E09 55:25

3M ago55:25

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Trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of abuse, sexual assult, suicide, death, grief, and loss. Please consider whether listening may impact your wellbeing. If you need support, reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14. Rachel’s story is one of resilience shaped by both visible and hidden traumas. Outwardly, Rachel grew up in a loving and priv…

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Overcoming trauma and mental health impacts after natural disaster with Rob Gordon • River Murray Recovery StoriesE10 55:21

3M ago55:21

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Dr Rob Gordon is a psychotherapist who specialises in trauma caused by natural and other disasters. He has been a consultant to the Victorian government and the Red Cross for disasters since 1989. In this podcast, Rob gives us a powerful and detailed explanation of the effects trauma resulting from disasters and describes strategies for healing. He…

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From Burundi to Australia: Christian Nduwimana’s Journey of Hope 52:28

4M ago52:28

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In this conversation, Christian Nduwimana shares his harrowing journey from Burundi, where he escaped a civil war and political persecution, to becoming a refugee in Australia. He discusses the political dynamics that led to violence in his home country and what led him to speak out against the injustices he witnessed. Christian shares his complex …

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From Trauma to Healing Through Compassion and honesty with Darren Wagner 1:12:45

4M ago1:12:45

1:12:45

Darren grew up in a military family, moving often as a child and experiencing different cultures and ways of life. As a young man, he dreamed of acting but instead served as a paramedic and police officer, always drawn to helping others. Long years of frontline work took a toll, leading Darren to struggle with depression and eventually be diagnosed…

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Leading a community with empathy, and managing media misinformation with Peter Hunter • River Murray Recovery Stories E09 59:14

4M ago59:14

59:14

Peter Hunter grew up by the sea, developing a lifelong love for water, which later shaped his deep connection to rivers and the natural environment. He began his career in 1977, serving as a teacher and later a school principal, honing his skills in leadership and community engagement. Peter transitioned into public service, joining the Renmark cou…

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Navigating the Immigrant Job Market: A Conversation with Kahlil Bagatsing 56:21

4M ago56:21

56:21

In this conversation, Khalil Bagatsing shares his journey from working in his family's business in the Philippines to helping immigrants find skill-aligned jobs in the US. He discusses the challenges immigrants face in the job market, including the importance of customizing resumes, recognizing transferable skills, and overcoming credential recogni…

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Karen Humphries' Unique Journey Through Chronic Illness 1:05:30

4M ago1:05:30

1:05:30

Karen was born in England to Irish parents and moved to Australia as a baby, growing up with a childhood full of change and learning to adapt to new situations. Early on, she faced undiagnosed medical challenges with clumsiness, gastrointestinal issues and hypermobility, always feeling there was something different and relying on instinct and persi…

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Working with horses to turn adversity into purpose with Sue Spence • Animals and Us E08 58:55

4M ago58:55

58:55

Sue grew up in New Zealand loving horses, always asking for a white pony and feeling happiest when spending time riding and caring for her first ponies and her horse, Lady. As a child with autism and ADHD, Sue felt awkward around humans but found peace and confidence with horses, using time in nature to manage her feelings and emotions. Bullied at …

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Rekindling a spirit of collaboration and keeping the community connected with Shannon Baxter • River Murray Recovery 53:55

4M ago53:55

53:55

Shannon worked initially in business and HR, then transitioned into local government nearly ten years ago, developing a passion for infrastructure while supporting management teams. As an intelligence officer for the Renmark Paringa Council, she coordinated resources, working diligently with her team to prepare for the River Murray flood's impacts …

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Navigating Identity and Mental Health: A conversation with Niharika Hiremath 53:45

4M ago53:45

53:45

In this insightful episode, Niharika Hiremath OAM, a first-generation immigrant and mental health professional, joins the podcast to share her unique perspective on growing up in Australia after leaving India at a young age. Niharika discusses her lived experiences as a third culture kid, the challenges and conflicts of navigating multiple identiti…

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Steve Rothwell on creating a Meaningful Life with Neurodiversity 1:16:51

4M ago1:16:51

1:16:51

Steve grew up feeling different, always curious and passionate about things his friends didn’t understand. Early on, he developed a love for words and storytelling that set him apart. As a child, Steve struggled with perfectionism and low self-esteem, not knowing he was neurodiverse. He saw the world differently and often felt isolated and misunder…