Inspirational Tales

When Ashlee was a teenager she was diagnosed with anorexia. Whilst she was in hospital for treatment, her Mum began a Facebook page to update Ashlee’s family and friends on her progress. This Facebook page was the beginning of what is now The Secret Burden, a business starting conversations and making change for those with eating disorders and mental health challenges. In this interview Ashlee shares a raw and honest account of her time living with anorexia, the support that her parents gave her and the surprising turning point that led her to deciding she wanted to recover. She then explains why she started sharing her story and the work that she does with The Secret Burden.   CONNECT WITH ASHLEE AND THE SECRET BURDEN - Instagram: @ashlee.thomas - Facebook: The Secret Burden - YouTube: The Secret Burden PODCAST DETAILS - Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast - Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

Alex is the founder of the Melbourne not for profit Urban Bushland Initiative. Urban Bushland Initiative revegetates urban spaces with indigenous flora, to create habitat for local wildlife and encourages community involvement in the process. In this interview Alex discusses the reasons why he began Urban Bushland Initiative, the challenges that they have faced over the past couple of years, why it is important to include the community and the many people that are involved in the process from start to finish.   CONNECT WITH URBAN BUSHLAND INITIATIVE - Instagram: @urbanbushland - Facebook: @urbanbushland - Join the volunteer mailing list: https://forms.gle/kUhK4r6wLYHJLC2i7   PODCAST DETAILS - Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast - Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

In 2017, when she was only 22 years old, Holly was involved in a major car accident. She sustained many injuries, including a brain injury and has required multiple surgeries since. Although her recovery is still continuing today, Holly has come a long way since the day of the accident and she is now using her experience to help others. She is a mentor to those with brain injuries and this year in 2022, she was named the first road safety ambassador for the South Australian police. But Holly is only just getting started. Having found her direction and purpose in life, she has many plans for the future.   CONNECT WITH HOLLY - Instagram: @hollyscott.roadsafety - Facebook: Holly Scott - road safety advocate   PODCAST DETAILS - Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast - Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

CONTENT WARNING: This episode discusses disordered eating and touches on suicide. If you need help or support please contact one of the below organisations. The Butterfly Foundation: 1800 33 4673 butterfly.org.au Lifeline: 13 11 14 lifeline.org.au EPISODE NOTES Dee has lived with chronic illness for most of her life. For many years her physical conditions were left undiagnosed and dismissed by medical professionals. This, along with other issues in her life, resulted in Dee suffering from mental ill health and an eating disorder. Now, at 23 years old, Dee’s mental health is much better. She has finally received a diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which explains the many physical ailments that she has experienced for most of her life, and she is an advocate for herself and others in the chronic illness and mental health spaces. Dee’s experiences have led her to understand the importance of standing up for herself and her own health. If you are listening and have a chronic illness yourself, then I’m sure you will relate to parts of Dee’s story. If you don’t, then I hope it will help you to understand many of the realities faced by those living with chronic illness.   Connect with Dee on Instagram @dee.zoe   PODCAST DETAILS - Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast - Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

My guest on this episode is Damien from Little Warrior Shields. Damien makes items of distraction (including foam shields and helmets) for sick children in hospital. What started off as Damien making a foam shield for his son, has turned into him giving away hundreds for free to sick children.   Connect with Damien and Little Warrior Shields on Instagram @littlewarriorshields   PODCAST DETAILS - Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast - Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

Mark is a Sergeant with Victoria Police, where he has worked for over 25 years. In 2003, Mark attended a call out, which changed his life. This incident, began a decade long decline in Mark’s mental health, before he was hospitalised and diagnosed with PTSD, anxiety and depression in 2013. Following his diagnosis and return to full time work 2 and a half years later, Mark founded The Code 9 Foundation to support first responders and their families who are impacted by PTSD. In this interview Mark shares an honest account of his mental health journey, including the signs he missed at the time and why it is so important to reach out for help if you need it. He emphasises the importance of self-care and that there is always hope, even in the dark times. Mark is so down to earth, with a positive attitude and sense of humour and I have so much respect for him for shining a light on this very important subject.   CONNECT WITH MARK - Website: markthomas.com.au - Facebook: @aftericemelts - Instagram: @aftericemelts - Twitter: aftericemelts CONNECT WITH THE CODE 9 FOUNDATION - Website: code9ptsd.org.au - Instagram: @code9ptsd - Facebook: @code9ptsd   PODCAST DETAILS - Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast - Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

Growing up, Grant was always seen as the happy kid. As an adult, and following periods of depression and then being hospitalised in a mental health ward for a manic episode, Grant was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Grant’s lived experience and learnt coping strategies, led him to become the founder of One Wave Is All It Takes, a global community which raises awareness for mental health through wearing fluro, surfing and salt water therapy, as well as creating a safe space to talk and support each other. In this interview Grant shares so many gems about mental health and I’m so thankful for the work that he is doing within this space.   CONNECT WITH GRANT AND ONE WAVE - Website: onewaveisallittakes.com - Instagram: @onewaveisallittakes - Facebook: @onewaveisallittakes   PODCAST DETAILS - Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast - Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

Being born in the country and moving to the city as a child, Felicity understands the differences and challenges that come with living these 2 different lifestyles. To help our Aussie farmers, she founded The Bush Bundle, providing farmers with a bundle of luxury/non-essential items, which they otherwise would not purchase. It is her goal to put a smile on their faces and also to help connect the country and city.   CONNECT WITH THE BUSH BUNDLE  Website: www.thebushbundle.org  Facebook: @thebushbundle.org Instagram: @thebushbundle/   PODCAST DETAILS Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

CONTENT WARNING: This episode discusses gambling and briefly touches on suicidal thoughts. If you need support please contact one of the below organisations: - Gambler’s Help - Ph: 1800 858 858 Website: gamblershelp.com.au - Lifeline - Ph: 13 11 14 Website: lifeline.org.au   EPISODE NOTES For 12 years, Kate struggled with a gambling addiction to the pokies, on which she gambled half a million dollars in total. After hitting her rock bottom and almost taking her own life, she found help and began her recovery. Kate now uses her lived experience and training as a recovery coach, to coach, educate and inspire others. She is an advocate for gambling reform and the founder of The Hope Project. In this interview Kate shares her own journey through gambling and recovery, as well as her knowledge of the industry and how we can support those who are impacted by gambling harm. This is such an insightful conversation and I hope after hearing Kate’s story that you gain a much better understanding of this topic.   KATE’S DETAILS Website: thehopeprojectnow.com Facebook: @thehopeprojectnow Instagram: @the.hope.project Twitter: @seselja_k   PODCAST DETAILS Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

As a child, Stephanie was diagnosed with Idiopathic Primary Pulmonary Hypertension, a disease which caused high blood pressure in her lungs and the same disease that her brother passed away from when he was only 5 years old. In 2018, following a deterioration in her health, she became the recipient of a double lung transplant. In this interview Stephanie discusses how having Primary Pulmonary Hypertension affected her life as a child and young adult. She explains the process of receiving her double lung transplant and why, following her transplant, she decided to help Donate Life raise awareness for organ donations. Since receiving her transplant, Steph has learnt to live her life to the full and she hopes to continue to do this for many years go come.   Register to become an organ donor here donatelife.gov.au/register-donor-today   PODCAST DETAILS- Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast- Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

With Kindness is a series of interviews with guests who are making a difference in the world. My guest on this episode is Sarah De Jonge, who is the founder of the global kindness project 1000 Hearts. As a symbol of compassion and care, the 1000 Hearts community offers handmade pocket hearts, to those in need.    In this interview Sarah discusses:   - Why she started 1000 Hearts   - How 1000 Hearts grew from just her making hearts, to a global community   - Stories from recipients of the hearts   - Why she believes kindness is so important   If you would like to get involved in giving or receiving hearts, you can do so through the details below.    CONNECT WITH 1000 HEARTS   Facebook: 1000PocketHearts   Instagram: @1000_hearts   Website: 1000hearts.com.au     PODCAST DETAILS Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

Katrina was diagnosed with alopecia when she was 9 years old. Since then, she has experienced varying degrees of the condition, including having her hair grow back and fall out multiple times. In this interview, Katrina discusses how Alopecia has affected many aspects of her life, including the emotional struggles she has faced and how at 37 years old, she decided to take back her power and shave her head. She speaks about her response to both of her children also being diagnosed with Alopecia and how she is teaching them, that hair and external looks are not important and that it is what is inside that counts. Kat is a proud advocate for her family, as well as others living with Alopecia. I am so happy that she has learnt to love herself again and in turn is able to inspire so many others to feel the same about themselves. CONNECT WITH KATRINA - Instagram: @katslife_lesshair - Tiktok: katslife_lesshair   PODCAST DETAILS - Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast - Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

In 2019, Matt’s girlfriend Claudia, passed away from Cystic Fibrosis. Following Claudia’s passing, Matt took up cycling. Now, 3 years on, he is preparing to cycle the full length of New Zealand, to honour Claudia’s memory and raise money and awareness for Cystic Fibrosis. In this interview Matt shares an honest and heartfelt account of his life so far, including his relationship and time spent with Claudia, how her passing affected him and now his current journey with his cycling. ** Please excuse the buzzing sound in the audio. Unfortunately it recorded that way and although I have done my best to reduce it, you can still hear it.   MATT'S DETAILS - Make a donation: https://cycling-for-claudia-cycling-for-a-cure.raisely.com/ - Instagram: @cyclingforclaudia - Facebook: CyclingForClaudia PODCAST DETAILS - Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast - Website: inspirationaltales.com.au

CONTENT WARNING: This episode discusses drug use. If you need support please contact one of the below organisations: Lifeline - Ph: 13 11 14 Website: lifeline.org.au Narcotics Anonymous - Ph: 1300 652 820 Website: na.org.au   EPISODE NOTES My guest on this episode is Jayden Sheridan. Jayden grew up in Seymour, a town in regional Victoria, about 100kms north of the Melbourne CBD. Jayden’s life went off track as a teenager, which saw him get involved with drugs, get into trouble with the police, get kicked out of school and not have a stable place to call home. But everything changed for Jayden when he was 17 years old and he found out that he was going to be a father. He vowed to change his ways and turn his life around so that he could be there for his son. Fast forward a decade and Jayden is now a prominent member of the Seymour community. He founded and runs the not for profit youth group, Gnarly Neighbours, which uses skateboarding and creative workshops to provide a positive space and opportunities for kids that weren’t available when he was growing up. In this interview Jayden shares a raw and honest account of his life, from his troubled childhood to the amazing work and difference that he is now making within the community. What a journey he has been on and he is only just getting started! Connect with Gnarly Neighbours Website: ​gnarlyneighbours.com.au Facebook: GnarlyNeighbours Instagram: @gnarlyneighbours Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

Since the age of 12, Grant Lottering had a passion for cycling and would eventually start racing as a professional at 21. On July 21, 2013, as Grant prepared for the World Championship in Trento, Italy, he crashed. Grant’s accident was so severe that as he lay on the mountain road, he resigned himself to the reality that he would die – yet he lived. The doctors told him that he survived death, and in the hospital, Grant received a vision of a blank page, which he felt was a message telling him, “you’ve got a new story to tell.” Grant would then do the impossible by conquering the French Alps in under 50 hours, the French Pyrenees in less than 72 hours and the entire length of South Africa, despite having undergone 11 surgeries, including emergency cancer surgery. As an international motivational speaker and Laureus Sport for Good Ambassador, Grant has taken his story to over 11 countries and 40 million people Connect with Grant: https://grantlottering.com/  https://www.uhsm.com/resources/grant-lottering/ Instagram: @glottering Podcast Details Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

In 2021, Sarah made her Olympic debut in Tokyo when she represented Australia in the 400m hurdles. But Sarah nearly didn’t make it to the Olympic Games at all because only 5 months earlier she had a freak accident in the gym, which required life saving surgery and many weeks of rest afterwards. Sarah’s surgeon told her to basically forget about the Olympics, but Sarah’s body recovered much quicker than anticipated, allowing her to represent her country in the sport that she loves. In this interview Sarah shares her journey from taking up little athletics as a child, to taking a few years away from athletics as a young adult and then falling back in love with it all over again. She then shares her journey from the gym accident to the Tokyo Olympics and what she is working towards for the future.  This interview gives an insight into what it is like to be an elite athlete, including the highs and lows that come along with it. Sarah is a ball of positive energy and I can’t wait to see all that she will be able to achieve in the future.   Connect with Sarah Instagram: @sarah_carli Tiktok:  sarah_carli  Podcast Details Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

Danielle co-founded Motherless Daughters Australia, after her Mum died from a rare form of cancer, when Danielle was only 23 years old. Motherless Daughters is a not for profit organisation that informs, supports and connects women and girls whose Mums have died. In this interview Danielle speaks openly about her Mum’s battle with cancer and the changing dynamic within her family during this time. She shares how she felt there was a lack of support for her following her Mum’s passing and how this led to her co-founding Motherless Daughters Australia. She also shares some insights into what we can do to support someone who has lost their Mum and how to navigate events like Mother’s Day. Connect with Motherless Daughters Australia Website: www.motherlessdaughters.com.au Facebook: motherlessdaughtersaustralia Instagram: @motherlessdaughtersau Podcast Details Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Bradley Dryburgh. Bradley was born with Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic disease that the first specialist his parents took him to as a baby, said would ruin his life. Luckily, his parents chose to find a different specialist, one with a more positive and hopeful outlook instead and this set Bradley up with the positivity and zest for life that he has today. Cystic Fibrosis has definitely not ruined Bradley's life, in fact he sees it as a badge of honour that has helped him build resilience and the ability to overcome any challenge that life throws at him. In this interview, Brad shares his life story from his amazing childhood to his first Cystic Fibrosis challenges as a young adult and how his hospital stays gave him a new perspective on life. Bradley is also a fellow podcaster and he explains how he went from being uninspired at work to following his passion for podcasting and storytelling. He also takes us through his journey from hating long distance running to running marathons to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis Australia. Bradley is inspiring young children with Cystic Fibrosis all over the country by showing them that anything in life is possible. His positivity and go getter attitude is second to none and it definitely rubbed off on me whilst speaking to him and I'm sure it will for you too.   Bradley's Details: You can find Bradley on Instagram, along with links to his podcast and fundraising page @bradleyjdryburgh Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

On 1st January 2020, then 19 year old Tyler suffered a traumatic brain injury, after falling head first off a 10m high cliff. Tyler needed life saving brain surgery, in which one third of this skull was removed and he was in a coma for 19 days afterwards. Tyler's family and friends were given a grim prognosis and were readying themselves to either say goodbye to Tyler or goodbye to Tyler as they knew him, when Tyler emerged from his coma and began to recover. Since then, Tyler has defied the odds, making a remarkable recovery that has surprised all of those around him. In this interview Tyler speaks about his journey from the events surrounding the accident, to his surgeries and recovery and how he thinks of the brain injury as a blessing in disguise. I find it fascinating what the brain and body can do and Tyler's story is a real testament to that.   Tyler's Details: Intstagram: @tylerproject19 Facebook: tylerproject19 Website: https://tylerproject19.wixsite.com/braininjury   Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Brett Connellan. From the age of 11, Brett was a keen surfer, whose whole life and identity revolved around surfing. Then, on an afternoon in 2016, he was out surfing when he was attacked by a shark. Although you might consider Brett unlucky for being attacked, nearly dying and losing three quarters of his quadriceps muscle in the process, it was a series of events that fell in Brett's favour on that day, which allowed him to survive to tell his story. Following the attack, Brett's prognosis was pretty bleak, but his hard work and determination resulted in him defying the odds to not only be able to walk again but to eventually get back in the water and do what he loves most, surfing. Since then he has even run a marathon. However, what might be considered most profound in Brett's story, is how the attack changed his mindset and outlook on life and resulted in him striving towards a new purpose driven life. In this interview, Brett shares his journey from working towards his dream of becoming a professional surfer, to the events on the day of the attack and how the attack was just the beginning of his journey to becoming the person that he is today. Brett is so much more than just a shark attack survivor. What defines him as a person is not what happened to him but how he responded to it and what he did next.   Brett's Details: Instagram: @brettconnellan Website: www.brettconnellan.com Documentary Instagram: @pyrophyticfilm   Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Meg Salisbury, who joined me to celebrate Rare Disease Day. In 2016, Meg's daughter Ginger, was the 1st person in Australia and only the 34th person in the world, to be diagnosed with the rare genetic disease KAT6A. As of the beginning of 2022, there are now 13 people diagnosed with KAT6A in Australia. Meg is on the board of the KAT6A Foundation and also liaises with researchers in Melbourne at Murdoch Childrens Research Institute (MCRI) and Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medicine (WEHI), who are working on KAT6A. She also offers support to Australian families, in particular when their child is first diagnosed with KAT6A. In this interview Meg discusses what Rare Disease Day is, why it is important to speak out and raise awareness for rare diseases and what we can do to help. She also shares many insights into how KAT6A affects Ginger, the challenges and joys of being Ginger's Mum and how the parents of children with KAT6A have banded together to help each other. Meg is an absolute gem. She is an open book and is more than happy to answer questions and offer advice to those who need it.   Meg's Details: Instagram: @megmajella Facebook: Meg Salisbury   KAT6A information: Website: kat6a.org Instagram: @kat6afoundation Facebook: kat6afoundation   Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

CONTENT WARNING: This episode discusses drug use and attempted suicide. If you need help or support please contact one of the following organisations: Lifeline: 13 11 14 lifeline.org.au Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 suicidecallbackservice.org.au Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4637 beyondblue.org.au EPISODE NOTES: My guest on this episode is Matt Caruana. In 2016, at the age of 16, and after struggling with mental health issues since he was 12, Matt attempted to take his own life by jumping off a 35 metre high building. Luckily, he survived the fall, but when he woke up in hospital, he was confronted with the reality that he now had spinal cord and brain injuries, which he had to learn to navigate on top of his mental health issues. Now, at 22 years old, Matt has such a powerful story to tell. As you will hear in this interview, he has come a long way since his teenage years. In the years that followed his suicide attempt, he learnt to connect with those around him, he found purpose in his life and he no longer suffers from mental health issues. Not only that but he is a motivational speaker and mental fitness facilitator, who uses his experiences to help and inspire others and raise awareness for mental health. I know that this is quite a heavy topic but I also know that every single one of you listening will get something out of hearing this episode, whether it be from Matt’s story or from his advice for dealing with mental health issues. So make sure you listen to the end so that you don’t miss out on anything! Matt’s Details: Website: www.mattcaruana.com Instagram: @mattshares Facebook: mattsharesonfb LinkedIn: Matthew Caruana Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Krystal Barter. Krystal has an extensive family history of breast cancer and grew up watching the women in her family being diagnosed and unfortunately getting very sick or passing away. After years of believing that their family was cursed, Krystal’s Mum and Nan were 2 of the first women in Australia to be tested and find out that they had the BRCA gene mutation. In her early 20s, Krystal also found out that she had this gene mutation but unlike the generations before her, this knowledge gave Krystal preventative options and she eventually decided to have a double mastectomy. It was while she was recovering from her surgery, that Krystal founded Pink Hope, a preventative breast cancer organisation that has gone on to help thousands of women, by providing them with the education and support that was not available to Krystal when she was going through her testing and surgery. In this interview Krystal openly discusses how watching her loved ones go through breast cancer, affected her and how she navigated her preventative options during a time when breast cancer was not widely discussed. She explains why she allowed her surgery to be featured on 60 minutes, why she founding Pink Hope and how it led to her meeting Angelina Jolie. Krystal has helped so many people through her work and I thank her for being so open and honest in sharing her story with us all today. Krystal's Details: Website: Krystalbarter.com Humanise Health Details: Website: wehumanisehealth.com Instagram: @wehumanisehealth Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Emmah Money. Emmah was born with Cystic Fibrosis and was not expected to live past her childhood…but she had other ideas. Now in her 30s, Emmah joined me for a chat about her incredible life so far. As a baby, she was put up for adoption due to her diagnosis. She explains how her adoptive parents gave her the best possible start to life and how she came to meet her biological family purely by chance. Growing up, Emmah didn’t have any role models with cystic fibrosis that she could look up to, so she set out to become that role model for others. Emmah is now a Mum of 2 beautiful children and created her platform CFMummy to bring her community together and show that being a Mum with Cystic Fibrosis is definitely possible. Emmah is also a Cystic Fibrosis ambassador, author, speaker and model. She is the recipient of a number of awards, including being named the 2020 Australian of the Year South Australian Local Hero. Emmah has pushed the boundaries of what she was told was possible for her and as a result is living an incredibly full life.   Emma’s Details: Instagram: @cfmummy Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Jordan Thomas, who joined me for this interview, from his hometown of Nashville Tennessee in the US. When Jordan was 16 years old, he was involved in a boating accident and had to have both of his legs amputated below the knee. Whilst Jordan was in hospital recovering from his surgery, he began to notice that many of the children in the hospital were not as privileged as he was, and would not be able to afford the exorbitant cost of paying for new and ongoing prosthetics. It was there in the hospital, at only 16 years of age and recovering from his own legs being amputated, that Jordan started the Jordan Thomas Foundation. The Jordan Thomas Foundation provides children with prosthetics until they turn 18 years old and has so far helped over 100 children worldwide. Australian NDIS guidelines for prosthetic limbs: In Australia, the NDIS provides prosthetic limbs for those who are eligible, based on individual circumstances and medical needs. Their guidelines can be found here. Jordan Thomas Foundation Details: Website: https://jordanthomasfoundation.org Instagram: @jordanthomasfoundation Facebook: jordanthomasfoundation Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM. Dinesh is a doctor and a lawyer. He is also the 2021 Queensland Australian of the year and a recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia for his contribution to medicine. When Dinesh was 25 years old and part way through medical school, he was involved in a car accident. He suffered a spinal cord injury which resulted in him becoming a quadriplegic. In the years following his accident, Dinesh faced many obstacles to completing his medical degree but he did not let this stop him. In 2016 he became only the 2nd person with quadriplegia to graduate as a doctor in Australia, the 1st in Queensland and the 1st with a spinal cord injury. Dinesh is now paving the way for future generations. He is the cofounder of Doctors with Disabilities, actively speaks and advocates for the disability community and is also involved in spinal cord injury research, with the hope that one day those with spinal cord injuries will be able to walk again. Dinesh is an incredible person, so humble and down to earth in spite of all of his achievements. He has a unique view of life and the medical system, understanding what it is like to be both a patient as well as a doctor. He is a wealth of knowledge and a prime example of the extraordinary things that can be achieved, no matter the obstacles.   Dinesh’s Details: LinkedIn: dineshpalipana Instagram: @dinesh.palipana Twitter: @dineshpalipana Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Bobby Hendry. Bobby grew up in the foster care system in NSW, frequently moving homes and schools. To give you an idea of how often she moved, by the time she was 18 she had lived in 40 different houses and with 16 different families. But when Bobby was 15 years old, she had finally settled in to a school and was enjoying her time there, when her current living arrangement fell through and she was about to be moved again, this time into a group home. It was during this time that 2 of her teachers decided to take her in. After years of moving around and not knowing where she would be living in the future, Bobby finally found herself in a loving home, with stability and a family that wanted her as part of their own. Bobby is now a wedding photographer, who’s photos will forever be a reminder of some of the happiest moments in her client’s lives. Having very few photos of her own childhood, she understands the importance of capturing these special moments. She also completed a photography project where she revisited the 40 different houses that she had lived in until she turned 18.  Bobby has an incredible energy and attitude towards her life. The often challenging experiences that she faced throughout her childhood, taught her many valuable life lessons that she has carried into her adult life. In this interview, Bobby is so open and honest in sharing her story, and I hope that by hearing it, you will gain a better understanding of what many children face growing up in the foster care system like she did. Bobby’s Details: Website: idlewildcreative.co Instagram: @idlewildcreative.co Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Joey Mullaney. Joey joined me from his hometown of Boston, Massachusetts in the US, for a chat about his life and the recent release of his memoir 'Stare At Me'. Joey was 13 years old, when he was told that he had Friedreich's Ataxia, a rare degenerative neuro-muscular disease. Joey initially tried to hide his condition, fearing that people would pity him if they found out and it wasn't until he learnt to accept and acknowledge it, that his outlook on life substantially changed. Joey is someone who sees the opportunities in life. With hard work and the willingness to adapt to situations when needed, he has not let Friedreich's Ataxia stop him from living an incredible life and achieving his dreams. In this interview, Joey speaks about a range of things, from his journey through life so far, to the lessons he has learnt along the way and we even have a laugh about our different accents. At only 26 years old, Joey has achieved so much in his life already and now by sharing his story in his book and his motivational speaking, he is also helping many other people along the way. Joey's Details Book: 'Stare At Me' available for purchase from Amazon Australia here Website: https://www.joeymullaney.com/ Instagram: @joeymullaney1 Facebook: joey.mullaney.77 Podcast Details Website: https://inspirationaltales.com.au/ Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Lauren Spear from The Orange Butterfly.In 2018, Lauren fell at work and hit her head, which resulted in her injuring her brain. Lauren's condition proved to be difficult to diagnose but with persistence and help from her GP and a specialist, she was diagnosed with Post Concussion Syndrome. Lauren has undergone extensive rehabilitation over the past few years and has come a long way since her accident. In this interview, Lauren discusses her injury and how it has affected her life. She explains why she started her blog 'The Orange Butterfly' and also the work that she is now doing within the community, to raise awareness for concussion and brain injuries. I hope that this interview gives you a greater understanding of what it is like to live with a brain injury and I thank Lauren for being so open and honest in sharing her story. Lauren's Details Website: https://theorangebutterfly.blog/Instagram: @theorangebutterfly_Facebook (includes link to join the closed facebook group): theorangebutterflyblog Podcast Details Website: https://inspirationaltales.com.au/Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Hamed Allahyari, who is a refugee from Iran. Hamed was in his early 20s when, fearing for his life, he fled his country and travelled to Australia by boat. After spending time in a detention centre, he arrived in Australia in early 2013. It took 2 years for him to receive his work/study right on his visa and even though he had extensive experience working as a chef in Iran, he found it very difficult to find a job. This became the driving force behind him opening his social enterprise restaurant a few years later. Cafe Sunshine and Salamatea is run entirely by refugees and asylum seekers, providing them with experience, training and employment here in Australia. In this interview Hamed is extremely open about his whole journey, including why he had to leave his home country and the conditions he faced whilst coming to Australia. He then explains how he built his life here in Australia and used his own experiences to help other refugees and asylum seekers through his cafe/restaurant. Hamed's Details Salamatea: 21 Dickson St, Sunshine VIC 3020Website: salamatea.org Instagram: @salamateahouse @hamedsfoodFacebook: CafeSunshineAndSalamaTeaYoutube: Hamed's Persian Kitchen Photo of Hamed in episode artwork by Sam Biddle @biddle.biddle Podcast details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.auInstagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

CONTENT WARNING: This episode discusses disordered eating. If you need support, please contact 1 of the organisations listed at the bottom of these show notes. Episode Notes My guest on this episode is Shreen El Masry. Shreen is a non-diet, body inclusive and Health At Every Size personal trainer, Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellor and the owner of Be You Be Free, a non-diet, body inclusive, fitness and wellbeing community based in Sydney, Australia. Shreen struggled with dieting and body image from a young age, but it wasn’t until she migrated to Australia from the UK back in 2010 that her physical and mental health deteriorated, and she developed depression, anxiety and an eating disorder. Shreen's turning point came when her counsellor warned her that she would hospitalise her under the Mental Health Act. This pushed her into recovery, where she discovered intuitive eating, health at every size and the non-diet community and became educated in all areas. The combination of all these elements ultimately led her to a full recovery.  The experience was life changing and this is what inspired her to set up Be You Be Free. Shreen is passionate about changing the narrative that diet culture has ingrained in many women. She helps women break free from dieting and heal their relationship to food, exercise, and their body so they can have fun with movement, find food freedom and body peace through a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate community. Now an upcoming author, Be You Be Free, will be published by Simon & Schuster Australia early 2022. Shreen's DetailsWebsite: beyoubefree.com.auInstagram: @shreen_beyoubefreeSimon and Schuster book press release Podcast DetailsWebsite: inspirationaltales.com.auInstagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast Support ServicesButterfly Foundation- Ph: 1800 33 4673- Website: butterfly.org.auLifeline- Ph: 13 11 14- Website: lifeline.org.au

My guest on this episode is Michelle Errichiello. When Michelle was 24 years old, she was hit by an out of control car, which instantly amputated her leg. With her wedding only 10 months away and whilst she was still in hospital, Michelle started setting herself goals. These goals initially started small but then she worked up to her 3 main goals, which were to walk down the aisle at her wedding, dance her wedding waltz and run. Michelle was told over and over again that these were not possible but she persisted until she found the right people who could help her. Not only did Michelle walk down the aisle, dance at her wedding and run, but she went on to break the 100m and 200m sprinting world records in her class and represented Australia at the London 2012 Paralympic games. Michelle is a true testament for why it is so important to believe in yourself, to advocate for yourself and to set goals and go after them. Please excuse the changing audio quality in this interview, as we did have some technical issues whilst recording and had to use multiple devices. Michelle's details:Website: www.masteradvocates.com.auEmail: michelle@masteradvocates.com.au Podcast details:Website: inspirationaltales.com.au Instagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

CONTENT WARNING:This episode discusses pregnancy loss. If you need support, please refer to the services listed at the bottom of these show notes. Episode NotesIn this episode, my guest Sydel, openly speaks about her fertility journey. She explains her initial treatments, the ins and outs of the IVF process, the multiple miscarriages that she had and how it was for her to finally bring her beautiful daughter home. She also discusses the psychological rollercoaster that she, and many others in the same position, face. If you have ever wondered what it is like to go through IVF, then this is the episode for you. Support Services:Lifeline - Ph: 13 11 14 Website: lifeline.org.auBeyond Blue - Ph: 1300 22 4637 Website: beyondblue.org.au Podcast Details:Website: inspirationaltales.com.auInstagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Lisa Cox. At the age of 24, Lisa contracted an infection, which lead to her having a brain haemorrhage stroke. She spent 3 weeks on life support, 2 months in a coma, died and was resuscitated twice and spent over a year in hospital. She required multiple surgeries, including the amputations of her leg, fingertips and toes, open heart surgery and a total hip replacement. She also developed epilepsy and was left partially blind. Lisa did not let any of this stop her from living her life to the absolute full. She is now a disability advocate, a model, a published writer and a professional speaker. She has taken on her challenges head on and now works tirelessly for disability inclusion, particularly in the fashion and media industries. Lisa's details:Website: www.lisacox.coInstagram: @lisacox.co Photo of Lisa in episode artwork taken by @katelukephotography for @stylingyouthelabel Podcast details:Website: inspirationaltales.com.auInstagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

CONTENT WARNING:This episode discusses domestic violence. If you need support, please refer to the services listed at the bottom of these show notes. Episode NotesMy guest on this episode is Stacy Jane.Stacy is a survivor of domestic abuse and the founder of the Australian charity Escabags. Stacy is originally from the UK but now calls Australia home, after an Australian family recognised her situation and took her under their wing. Stacy began sewing tote bags to help cope with PTSD from the abuse that she endured and it wasn't long before Escabags was born. Escabags are now stocked in over 400 locations Australia wide and the number continues to grow each week. Stacy is such a courageous and inspiring woman. She is so passionate about helping others and paying forward the kindness that she was and is still being shown by many Australians. In this interview, she openly speaks about her journey from being abused, to escaping and now helping others with Escabags. She explains the issues that those trying to escape abuse face and why it is so important to be kind to others. Escabags Details:Escabags is a registered Australian charity with DGR status. We provide free 'Escape Bags' for victims of domestic and family abuse. The tote bags themselves are handmade by volunteers and then filled with essential items that a victim and his/her children may need when initially escaping an abusive or dangerous situation.Website: www.escabags.orgFacebook - @escabagsInstagram - @escabagsTwitter - @WeAreEscabags Support Services:1800Respect - Ph: 1800 737 732 Website: 1800respect.org.auLifeline - Ph: 13 11 14 Website: lifeline.org.auBeyond Blue - Ph: 1300 22 4637 Website: beyondblue.org.au Podcast Details:Website: inspirationaltales.com.auInstagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

Please note: There is an Auslan interpreted video of this episode available to watch on our website. Click here to watch it or go to inspirationaltales.com.au and click on episode 4. My guest on this episode is Kerrie Taylor. Kerrie is a teacher and a Mum, who is also deaf. In this interview, she discusses what it was like for her growing up, the many challenges that deaf children face and what helped her to ultimately embrace her deaf identity. She also explains how her experiences inspired her to publish bilingual children's books that include Auslan signs, to help support deaf children and their families. Her books have gone on to have such a positive impact on so many people's lives. Kerrie's Details:Instagram: @auslanhubFacebook: www.facebook.com/auslanhubWebsite: www.auslanhub.com.au, Podcast Details: Website: inspirationaltales.com.auInstagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is James Sheppard.James was in his mid 20s when he started having heart issues, which ultimately resulted in him going into heart failure and receiving a heart transplant. After being told that he needed to stay fit post surgery, James took up cycling. Within a year he had organised and completed a 200km bike ride to raise awareness for organ donation. Now, 3 years on from his transplant surgery, James is living an amazingly full life. In this interview, he discusses what life was like for him leading up to the transplant, the extraordinary feats that he has achieved since then, as well as the ins and outs of what the process of receiving a heart transplant has been like for him. He also emphasizes the importance of becoming an organ donor and how much receiving this amazing gift has changed his life. How to register as an organ donor:Fill out the short form at this link donatelife.gov.au/hearttrail James' details:Instagram @jimmys860 and @hearttrailauWebsite: hearttrail.com Podcast details:Website: inspirationaltales.com.auInstagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

My guest on this episode is Dr Neal Rennie (Chiropractor).When Neal was 18 years old he broke his back and injured his neck. After suffering for many years, he decided to become a chiropractor, to help other people who were experiencing similar issues to him. In this episode he shares his words of wisdom about how he got through his darkest days and became the positive person that he is today. Neal's Details:Website: renniehealth.com.auContact at: info@renniehealth.com.au  Podcast Details:Website: inspirationaltales.com.auInstagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast

Welcome to the 1st episode of the Inspirational Tales Podcast!In this episode, Jessica (your host) shares her story of how her own hardships inspired her to start this podcast. I hope you enjoy! Podcast Information:Website: inspirationaltales.com.auInstagram: @inspirationaltalespodcast