Serena’s Journey: Embracing Quiet Strength to Inspire Other Introverts
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 […]
From Refugee to Women’s Advocate: Maryam’s Inspiring Journey
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, […]
Helping Refugees Overcome Trauma Through Storytelling & Drama Therapy with Catherine Maguire-Donvito
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. Catherine emphasizes the importance of building trust and connection among participants […]
Lyn Gregory’s Journey from Mormonism to Discovering her True Spirituality
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 […]
How pets can become a reminder that life is worth living with Rachael McDermott • Animals & Us E09
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 […]
Overcoming trauma and mental health impacts after natural disaster with Rob Gordon • RMRS E10
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 […]
From Burundi to Australia: Christian Nduwimana’s Journey of Hope
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]