Leading a community with empathy, and managing media misinformation with Peter Hunter • RMRS E09
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 […]
Navigating the Immigrant Job Market: A Conversation with Kahlil Bagatsing
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 recognition issues. Khalil emphasizes the significance of […]
Karen Humphries’ Unique Journey Through Chronic Illness
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 persistence. […]
Rekindling a spirit of collaboration & keeping the community connected with Shannon Baxter• RMRS E08
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 on the community. Shannon emphasised […]
Steve Rothwell on creating a Meaningful Life with Neurodiversity
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 misunderstood […]
Rebuilding a sense of purpose and providing mental health support with Shelley Rose • RMRS E07
Shelley Rose was the Wellbeing officer for the huge area affected by the 2022 Murray River flood. She is a mental health practitioner and retired financial counsellor who has been deeply rooted in her local Riverland community for over 23 years. Shelley’s first task was understanding the varied needs of flood victims, from primary and […]
Creating Safe Spaces for First Responders with Nick White
Nick is a 50-year-old single dad. He always wanted to join the military and dreamed of becoming a helicopter pilot. He decided instead to join the infantry and later trained as a paratrooper in Australia He was based at Holsworthy. He was eventually medically discharged after injuring his spine in a truck accident. After leaving […]
Navigating Identity and Mental Health: A conversation with Niharika Hiremath
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 identities, and her openness […]
Reuniting the community and fostering resilience with Julie Ahrens • RMRS E06
Julie Ahrens began her journey as a bonded student teacher, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities in rural Australia. Drawn by job prospects and adventure, Julie moved from to Berri where her passion for teaching and community blossomed. Julie fully immersed herself in the Riverland lifestyle, cherishing the natural beauty and forming deep connections […]
From chasing promotions to a life built with purpose and authenticity with James Pearson
James grew up in the north of England, earning a degree in politics and economics, working various jobs to support himself after university. He visited Australia for the Olympics and decided to stay. He started working in recruitment, which led to opportunities and a new life here. He thrived in the corporate world, pursuing promotions […]