Brave Always

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Moore. Former Wallabies Captain, World Cup winner, and one of Australian rugby's most decorated leaders. And honestly? I wasn't prepared for how much I'd like him. Because Stephen Moore is not what you'd expect. He's not the alpha in the room. He's not the guy performing his own highlight reel. He's someone who will openly tell you what he doesn't know, what he's still figuring out, and why he thinks relationships and trust matter more than almost anything else in leadership. Watching him navigate the leap from elite sport into the corporate world. With no ego, no armour, just a genuine commitment to keep growing, reminded me that the best leaders aren't the ones who've arrived. They're the ones who never stop becoming. This conversation left me thinking: this is exactly the kind of person you'd want leading you. Not because he's impressive (though he is) but because he's real. Unscripted. Honest. And quietly one of the most compelling leaders I've sat across from.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You know when two different people tell you, “You really need to meet her”? There’s usually a reason.That was Jess Caire for me. And they were right. Jess is sharp, accomplished, and leads in a space that’s traditionally male and corporate. But what struck me wasn’t just what she does. It was how she does it. She’s warm, funny, self-aware, and disarmingly real. The kind of person who makes you feel at ease while also reminding you of what’s possible. In this episode, Jess shares her journey, from running her own business at 25, to stepping into senior leadership roles and navigating rooms not always designed for women. She’s honest about the learning, generous with her insight, and never afraid to laugh at herself. Jess is a reminder that the best leaders aren’t the ones who pretend they’ve arrived. They’re the ones who stay open, keep growing, and lead with both impact and humility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I sit down with David Hanham, CEO of the Queensland Rugby Union. And what struck me most wasn’t the role, the pressure, or the responsibility… it was his honesty. David is one of those rare leaders willing to speak openly about the things he hasn’t always done well. The missteps, the blind spots, the moments he struggled. And hearing a CEO talk that vulnerably is powerful. What unfolds in this conversation is a masterclass in self-awareness: understanding your strengths, owning your weaknesses, and putting simple, practical steps in place to become a better human and a better leader. It reminded me that even at the highest levels, leadership is deeply human. And speaking with David felt less like interviewing a CEO and more like talking to a good friend. Real, grounded, generous.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I sit down with Zimi Meka, Co-Founder and CEO of Ausenco ,a Brisbane start-up that grew into one of the world’s most respected engineering companies. Zimi’s story is one of grit, heart, and quiet conviction. From his father’s journey as a refugee to his own path as a global leader, he shares the moments that shaped him ,the setbacks, the instincts he trusted, and the values that never shifted. It’s an honest conversation about boldness, humility, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I sit down with the unstoppable Ashy Bines. Entrepreneur, creator, and one of Australia’s original fitness influencers. Ashy opens up about what it took to rise above the critics, silence the noise, and truly back herself, even when it meant walking away from the career that made her famous. We talk about self-belief, evolution, and the courage to make bold choices in pursuit of genuine happiness. It’s an honest, inspiring conversation with a woman who doesn’t just talk about growth - she lives it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Mick Willing . CEO of Fortem Australia and former Deputy Commissioner of the NSW Police Force. Mick shares his remarkable journey through 31 years of policing and high‑stakes leadership, from commanding homicide investigations and counter‑terrorism operations to guiding the whole of regional field operations. He reflects on the weight of the uniform, the process of stepping out of it, and what it takes to lead with purpose beyond the badge. It’s a grounded and powerful conversation with a man of deep integrity, grit, and quiet strength.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Kylie Blucher - Managing Director of Nine Queensland & Northern NSW. Kylie shares her journey through a remarkable career in media leadership, reflecting on what it takes to stay grounded, authentic, and human while leading at the top. She talks about hard work, courage, and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing exactly who you are, whether you’re in the boardroom or at home. It’s an inspiring and down-to-earth conversation with a woman of fierce grit, warmth, and unwavering authenticity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Samantha Vidler leads with quiet strength and decades of wisdom. With over 30 years at PwC, she’s built deep relationships across Queensland’s business community and carved out a career rooted in purpose, people, and calm leadership. In this episode, Sam shares the lessons she’s learned across three decades — from navigating complexity to staying grounded in what really matters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anthony Seibold knows high-pressure leadership. As Head Coach of the Manly Sea Eagles, he’s led some of the NRL’s biggest teams, including the Melbourne Storm, South Sydney Rabbitohs, Brisbane Broncos, and Queensland’s State of Origin. Beyond the field, he’s a sought-after speaker on leadership, resilience, and building high-performance teams. His journey hasn’t been without challenges, but his ability to adapt, lead, and come back stronger is what makes him such a fascinating guest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Self-made multi-millionaire and one time Australia's highest-paid female CEO, Maxine Horne’s story is truly one of grit, determination and passion. The iconic story of Fone Zone and VITA group proves what can happen when you truly believe in yourself and never give up. She’s also now one of the famous sharks on the new series of Shark Tank and this episode is jam packed full of amazing tips and insights from one of the country’s most successful business minds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s not often you meet someone who decides in their early 20’s that I’m going to be the Chief Editor of one of Australia’s biggest newspapers. But here he is. Chris Jones, a talented journalist and now the masthead of one of Australia’s leading newspapers. He bravely opens up about the parts of his leadership he knows he still struggles with and shares his unwavering passion for using his talent and medium to influence for good.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get your pen and paper ready. This is one of those episodes brimming with hot tips! From his days at Essendon football club, to the CEO of the Gold Coast Suns and now the CEO of Grand Prix Australia, Travis Auld knows a thing or two about what it takes to lead from the top in times of good and bad.  His unique approach to leaning into anything uncomfortable is nothing short of inspiring and his hands on approach to listening and leadership defines him as one of Australia’s most inspiring CEO’s.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Antonia is without a doubt what you would call a pocket rocket. She packs a punch when it comes to energy, passion, hard work, achievement but more importantly is just one of those leaders who understands her role to inspire. From humble beginnings Antonia vulnerably shares her career journey, her challenges and life lessons to remind us all that when you believe in what you do, anything is possible.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a former Olympian to now the CEO of Swimming Australia, Rob is an icon in Australian Sports. From navigating a global stage at 18 to traversing the English channel he knows a thing or two about what it takes to push yourself to achieve your goals and bounce back from life’s adversities. He believes passion is the secret ingredient to pushing through challenges and his story is not one to miss!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt probably shouldn’t be here to tell his tale. But the fact that he is is an extraordinary example when a person chooses to take control of their life. Matt bravely shares his story that navigates the world of addiction, crime, mental health, and homelessness. But it also shines a light on what can happen when just one person believes in you. How your life can transform and how you can achieve success in love, life, and your career no matter how challenging your life has been. He’s full of love, passion, and an overwhelming drive to live every day to its fullest. He’s inspiring, lovable, and definitely one of my favourite people.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode I get to sit down and chat with the man himself, Sammy Thaiday. Broncos Legend, State of Origin and Australia NRL rep, TV & Radio entertainer and one of my long-time friends. In this open and candid interview Sammy puts it all on the table. From his early challenges with his identity, navigating success at an early age and having to figure it all out post the end of his professional sports career. He’s absolutely the funny man we know and love, but he’s also a passionate Dad and Husband, a bit of a poet and unafraid to face his own demons on his own Brave journey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Schneider truly is one of Australia’s most humble CEO’s. He’s down to earth, passionate, a man of the people and you would absolutely find him more comfortable in his Bunnings “Reds” than behind a corporate desk. In this episode Michael vulnerably shares his love for the iconic Aussie brand and the experiences that shaped his drive and determination to reach the top. He knows who he is, and what matters in life and isn’t afraid to have the tough conversations….even if he doesn’t like doing them still!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a Brisbane girl, this was a very special episode. JC, along with two high school friends started their journey as Powderfinger as high school students from Brisbane. Their careers spanned 21 years and changed the landscape for rock music at the time, particularly for the Brisbane music scene. JC has continued his music journey, behind the scenes opening both the Triffid and Fortitude Valley music Hall. His story is one of resilience, hard work and an unwavering belief that keeping calm and positive is simply the best way to approach life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julie McLellan is as close as you’ll get to a born leader. Facing challenges and change from an early age, she got comfortable with the uncomfortable, and wasn’t afraid of the responsibility that comes with creating the kind of culture (and world) she wanted to live in. It’s something she continues to work on today, and her ability to ‘tell it like it is’ is both enlightening, and incredibly refreshing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lorie Argus has unknowingly been a champion for females in senior leadership roles her whole life. From her early career at Virgin as one of the first female senior leaders, to now being only 1 of 2 female CEO’s of Australian airports she continues to prove that being authentically yourself, being aware and honest of your shortcomings and never believing your better than anyone else are all powerful ingredients for any leader. She’s funny, humble and incredibly real about the challenges that come with leading at the top, whilst being a wife, a mother and continuing to push yourself to be better everyday. One of my favourite conversations with one of my early inspirations!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.