Five of My Life

I simply can't believe that I haven't heard this piece of music before. It floored me,... and I am eternally grateful to next weeks guest on the Five of My Life, who introduced it to me, Stephanie Dowrick. This remarkable and multi-talented woman shares her story behind the music and her other 4 choices and I urge you not to miss it - Nigel. But if you really can't wait - listen to Spiegel im Spiegel by Arvo Pärt on YouTube here, Spotify here and Apple here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stewart MacFarlane was born in Adelaide in the 50's, and entered the South Australian School of Art at just 16 years old. At 21 he travelled to New York to study at the School of Visual Arts, and to pursue a career in music. Along with residencies in various countries, Stewart has gone on to hold over 50 solo exhibitions in major galleries around the world, establishing himself as a master of Australian contemporary, narrative painting. Check out Stewart's art here Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I stumbled on an artist, completely by chance, and fell in love with his art. After researching and discovering that he was in fact an accomplished Australian artist, I decided to reach out and see if he'd take the Five of My Life challenge. Lucky for us all he accepted. Tune in next week to hear about his time in New York as a young musician in the 70's and his journey through life and art - Nigel Oh and check out his art here! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sarah Grynberg is a highly experienced media executive, who has produced some of the best known and most loved shows in Australia. She's also the host of her own chart topping podcast, 'A Life of Greatness', where she interviews global figures as diverse as Geena Davis, Wim Hof and Matthew McConaughey, to extract practises and strategies that help her listeners unlock their best selves. Her responses to the Five of My Life Challenge reflect her deeply mindful approach to life. Find Sarah on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and on TikTok Listen to her podcast A Life Of Greatness here Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every day is a fresh beginning; Listen, my soul, to the glad refrain, And, spite of old sorrow and older sinning, And puzzles forecasted and possible pain, Take heart with the day, and begin again. An excerpt of the poem 'New Every Morning' by Susan Coolidge Sarah Grynberg was a fascinating and authentic guest on the Five Of My Life - hear a snippet of her story in this sneak peak, and don't miss our wonderful conversation in full next week - Nigel Listen to Sarah's podcast The Life of Greatness here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frances Fitzgerald is a member of the European Parliament for Dublin and former Deputy Prime Minister of Ireland. She has spent her life working to deliver change and reform, first as a social worker and family therapist for ten years, then in government with roles including Minister for Justice and Equality, and the State's first ever Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. Through Frances's choices she generously reveals some of the rich history, social scars and feminist developments of modern Ireland. Find Frances Fitzgerald on Twitter: @FitzgeraldFrncs Instagram: @frances_fitzgerald_mep Facebook: Frances Fitzgerald LinkedIn: Frances Fitzgerald Website: www.francesfitzgerald.ie Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of my favourite traditions on Five of My Life is the 'sixth question'. This is when, at the end of every interview, I ask my guests who they want to hear take the Five of My Life Challenge next. As this 'sneak peak' into next week's episode explains, it's how the 'Sixers Club' came to be, and brings a beautiful connectedness to the whole exercise - Nigel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I've always admired people who create something new and meaningful from nothing. Particularly, when their creation is something that makes society better. It takes courage, vision and incredible tenacity to overcome the naysayers and inevitable obstacles. In this special 'Founders' compilation episode I talk to Andrew Penfold, David Handley, Zara Siedler, Ronni Kahn and William Sieghart - five remarkable people who have each successfully founded projects that have made a lasting and meaningful contribution to the world - Nigel Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Leser is a multi-award winning Australian journalist, author of seven books, moderator and keynote speaker. A former Middle East and North American correspondent, he has a reputation for in-depth coverage on complex social and political issues, which you can hear woven through his thoughtful responses to the Five of My Life Challenge. Read more about David Leser and see his work here Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five of My Life listeners from around the world contact me with feedback and suggestions regularly and I love it. Next week's guest was a suggestion from a lovely chap, Nicolas Shorter, who emailed me. He recommended that I invite the award winning journalist and author David Leser onto the show and I'm so glad he did. Don't miss next week's chat with the author of 'Women, Men and the Whole Damn Thing' - N Got a 5ML suggestion for Nigel? Email him here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five of My Life hit's the road again this week, with part two of two special episodes recorded live at the Castlemaine State Festival. In part two, acclaimed children's author Andy Griffiths takes the Five of My Life challenge and shares his wonderful stories in front of a live audience. Andy has a nuanced childlike way of looking at the world and brings joy to his Five of My Life choices and the CSF audience. Visit the Castlemaine Festival Website here CSF Instagram and Facebook Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here See Andy's books and contact Andy here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five of My Life hit's the road this week, with part one of two special episodes recorded live at the Castlemaine State Festival. In part one, Nigel takes to the stage to be interviewed by curator of the 'Dialogues Program,' Kristin Gill. Enjoy hearing Nigel discuss his own life including thoughts on sliding into your third trimester sideways screaming "yaaahooooo". Visit the Castlemaine Festival Website here CSF Instagram and Facebook Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amanda Keller is one of Australia's most successful and most loved media personalities. Whether it be hosting the nation's most listened to radio show or presenting a number of top rated TV programs, Amanda has been at the head of the field for over 30 years. Also a respected author, actress and journalist - this episode beautifully demonstrates her natural talent and pure authenticity responding to the Five of My Life Challenge. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here Follow Amanda on Instagram here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amanda Keller is a national treasure, achieving multi-awarded success as a television and radio presenter, comedian, journalist and author. In next weeks episode she shares her fear of not being able to have kids, her solace in privacy and much more. All delivered with her trademark generosity and authenticity, her responses to the Five of My Life challenge are not to be missed - N This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Collee is is highly regarded and awarded screenwriter who's film scripts include well known successes like Happy Feet and Master & Commander. A qualified doctor, he's also a respected journalist and best selling novelist. He exudes a charming and infectious delight for the world around him as he shares the stories behind his Five of My Life choices. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here Find John Collee's books and contact him here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I really do love the growing and engaged Five of My Life community. This surprising and very sweet story about 9 year old Olivia and her family, from Montana in the US, was the highlight of my week. I hope you appreciate this touching moment as much as I did and if you'd like to connect or suggest a guest, you can contact me here - Nigel Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Five of My Life is deliberately and distinctly not part of the daily political news cycle. However, it is fascinating to hear from our political leaders when they are not delivering a sound bite or policy beat up. This compilation episode gives an insight into the true and authentic personalities of Tanya Plibersek, Julia Gillard, Anthony Albanese, Jacqui Lambie and Gladys Berejiklian via their responses to the Five of My Life challenge. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Tanveer Ahmed is a psychiatrist and the author of two best-selling books, The Exotic Rissole and Fragile Nation. He works in private practice in Bankstown, Sydney and regularly visits jails for forensic assessments. Through the Five of My Life Challenge, Tanveer shares his unique migrant perspective and fascinating life stories. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here Contact Tanveer here This episode proudly sponsored by Darrell Lea See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Next week's guest is someone that was put to me by a Five of My Life listener. I thoroughly enjoy reading your messages and suggestions and, to my delight, I get them from around the world. I'm so glad that Tanveer Ahmed was suggested to me as our chat was fascinating and engaging. Please join me as Tanveer takes the Five of My Life challenge in next week's episode. And if you'd like to connect or suggest a guest, you can contact me here - Nigel Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To show our support for International Womens Day we've put together this special compilation episode. In it, five amazing women: Layne Beachley, Anya Hindmarch, Kate McClymont, Julia Gillard and Mary Chiarella, each tell a story prompted by the Five of My Life Challenge. Entertaining and enlightening, these leaders who have dominated across the varied worlds of sport, fashion, journalism, politics and nursing serve as an inspiration to us all. Listen to the full episodes from these amazing women by hitting the above links or searching in the Five of My Life feed below. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Professor Ross Fitzgerald is a historian, novelist and political commentator. One of Australia's most prolific authors, Ross almost went to an early grave due to his chronic and dangerous alcoholism. Sober for more than 5 decades, Ross shares the stories behind his Five of My Life choices with wisdom and gratitude. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here Learn more about Ross and find his books here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’ve always been fascinated by the stories of others who, like me, have decided to live their life without drinking. In next week’s episode the wonderful Ross Fitzgerald takes the Five Of My Life challenge - and in the process we discuss his dangerous and destructive life on the grog , and the marvellous 53 years he’s had since getting sober - Nigel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To celebrate Valentine's Day we are re-releasing this heart-warming conversation when one of Australia's most popular authors - the wonderful Monica McInerney - took the Five of My Life challenge, and movingly wove love throughout her stories. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here Find Monica here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2018 Zara Seidler co-founded the hugely successful Daily Aus, an online news service that offers young Australians a digestible and engaging way to access the news. As the youngest guest on the podcast to date, it is a revealing episode that demonstrates age is no barrier when it comes to The Five of My Life challenge. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here Connect with Zara on LinkedIn here, IG here and check out The Daily Aus here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This podcast has helped me grow and learn in ways that have been surprising. Next week's guest was one of those lovely surprises. The youngest guest we've had on the podcast to date, Zara illustrated that wisdom and life changing experiences can come at any and every age. Join me next week to hear about this incredible young woman's achievements - Nigel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're re-releasing this episode with Taryn Brumfitt from a couple of years ago as she has just been announced as the 2023 Australian of the Year. Learn more about this incredible Australian through her Five of my Life choices. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here Follow Taryn on Instagram here Co-founder of The Embrace Hub See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Holly Wainwright has had a long career as a journalist and editor, most recently as head of Content at Mamamia - Australia's only women's media company. Author of four best-selling books and host of two of the country's most successful podcasts, Holly's honest, relatable and wise commentary has earned her an army of followers. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here Find her books and contact Holly here Follow Holly on IG here Listen to Holly's Podcast Mamamia Out Loud here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doing this podcast has most definitely expanded my world and next week's guest has added to that enlightenment. Here is a tiny taste of the wonderful author, journalist and podcaster Holly Wainwright as she shares the stories and life experiences behind her Five of My Life choices. Please check out the full chat with Holly next week - Nigel Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alison Mirams is an inspirational trailblazer at the very top of corporate Australia. CEO of tier one construction company Roberts Co, Alison's courageous leadership took on the norms of an entire industry and her policies have transformed the lives of thousands of families. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here Connect with Alison here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Happy New Year and welcome back to a new exciting year of Five of My Life! In these 'sneak peak' episodes you'll get a taste of what's coming up in next week's episode. I was thrilled when a friend sent me a video of Alison Mirams, the CEO of Roberts Co and I found that Alison and I share many values and behaviour around work. Look out for the full chat with Alison next week on Five of My Life - Nigel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan Ilic is one of Australia's most prolific comedic voices. His incisive satirical take on current affairs has garnered attention, and followers, around the world. As funny as he is thought provoking, Dan reigns supreme as Australia's leading investigative humorist. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. Follow Dan on IG here, Twitter here, FB here and check out his Podcast A Rational Fear See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Like so many families around the world, we sit and watch 'Love Actually' at Christmas time every, single, year. So I thought it would be great to revisit this episode with the wonderful actor Kris Marshall, who plays Colin Frissell in the movie. Merry Christmas from my family to yours. Check out the 'Five of My Life playlist' on Spotify and hear every guests chosen song Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

'Tis the season of 'stuff' and in this compilation episode we revisit the chosen possessions from Jo Stanley, Todd Sampson, John Eales, Amantha Imber and Carl Honore - as they talk about the story and meaning behind their object. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this sneak peek into next week's episode, Nigel explains how his relationship with possessions has changed as he's got older. The 'possession' question is his favourite and next week he'll bring you some of his favourite Five of My Life choices just in time for Christmas. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nancy Kline is a teacher researcher school cofounder and writer, she’s also the creator and pioneer of the Thinking Environment. An internationally bestselling author, the leadership organisation she founded in 1984, Time to Think, has touched the lives of millions around the world. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. Find Nancy's books here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this mini episode, Nigel explains why his next guest, on Five of My Life, is special to him. Join Nigel and Nancy Kline next week and hear what's behind her Five of My Life choices. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

International renown photographer Stuart Spence, has snapped some of the most famous people on the planet. His eclectic work has been exhibited in galleries around the world and his pictures graced the covers of magazines as varied as Rolling Stone and New Scientist. An author and deep thinker, Stuart's photography is a mystical process which is heard through his thoughtful Five of My Life choices. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. Stuart Spence Website Follow Stuart Spence on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mikey Robins is an Australian media personality, comedian, radio host and writer. He has entertained thousands over the years with his stints on radio and television and now has a podcast called Heroes and Howlers. In this open chat about his five selections, Mikey shows gratitude for a full and fun life so far. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connection to physical place will always be one of the most powerful drivers of meaning, memory and happiness. In this episode we revisit the special places chosen by Taryn Brumfitt, Layne Beachley, Rosie Waterland, Monica Mcinerney and Sarah Wilson. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emile Sherman is an Oscar winning film producer and co-host of the podcast The Principle of Charity. The's Kings Speech, Lion, Power of the Dog and Rabbit Proof Fence are some of his well known productions. In his response to the Five of My Life challenge, Emile shares his love of philosophy and provides fascinating insights into his love of filmmaking. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mick Colliss is best known for his hilarious book 'Full Contact Sudoko', he's also a poet, radio host and much in-demand public speaker. In this wonderfully 'Australian' chat he shares how his dream became a reality in the most unexpected way. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wendy McCarthy is one of Australia's most revered public figures. As a feminist icon, author and businesswoman, Wendy has worked for reform in many important sectors in Australia. Her Five of My Life choices reflect this, her deep advocacy for women's reproductive rights and her desire for equality. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To mark Father’s Day in Australia, I’ve put together a ‘best of’ episode with a collection of stories from five guests about their Dads. Join Damian Callinan, Gus Worland, Rabbi Jeffrey Kamins, Rob Carlton and Julia Gillard as they share moving and intimate reflections on their fathers through their Five Of My Life Choices. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stuart Dickinson, Australia's most-capped Rugby Union referee and the only Australian to referee three Rugby World Cups, is a modest and impressive guest. He was once nearly shot at point blank range by a would-be robber, but little did the assailant know, he was also an undercover cop at the time. Stuart is a passionate leader and 'one-off'. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom Tilley's backstory is as fascinating as his list of achievements is impressive. Having grown up in a religious cult, Tom finally broke free to chart his own course becoming, amongst other things, Australia's leading voice in current affairs to young people. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leaving the Jehovah Witness church is always difficult, but even more so when you're a Lebanese Lesbian. Stand-up Naomi Mourra has taken her challenging life experiences and turned them into comedy, as revealed in her thoughtful Five Of My Life Choices. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Caesar is a multi-awarded film and television director and writer. Through his Five of My Life choices, and embodied in his films Mullet, Idiot Box and Dirty Deeds, he reflects on and celebrates 'Australian culture' past and present. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Abby Dobson was a founding member of the successful Australian band, Leonardo's Bride, she has collaborated with Neil Finn, Daniel Johns and Alex Lloyd amongst others; and has a side-project called Baby et Lulu in which she sings French songs in harmony with her friend Lara Goodridge. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Choosing a favourite song has often been difficult for guests on Five of My Life. In this episode you'll hear comedian Matt O'Kine, brain surgeon Charlie Teo and entertainers Will Anderson, Mary Coustas and Julia Zemiro as they share moving and special stories behind their choices. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Pocock had a remarkable sporting career, playing professional rugby for Australia at the tender age of 17, he ended up captaining the Wallabies and being the only Australian player included in World Rugby's 'Team of the Decade'. Yet his story is every bit as fascinating off the field as on, be it his family's traumatic flight from Zimbabwe, his social activism or his run for the Senate. Follow The Five of My Life on Instagram Contact Nigel here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.