Tessa’s Path from Grief to Strength and Purpose

Tessa grew up on a South Australian farm, enjoying a childhood filled with outdoor adventures and tight-knit family bonds, which shaped her early years with resilience and joy. At 16, Tessa faced the sudden passing of her younger brother Nathan, a heartbreaking loss that left an enduring impact on her and her family. Also at […]

Greg Boerma’s Path from Trauma to Joy

Greg grew up in a family of six, surrounded by love and support. This big family environment shaped his inclusive and communal mindset. Successful in various sports, including swimming and basketball, Greg achieved an elite level. His curiosity drove him to explore multiple sporting disciplines. Greg’s career began in education, progressed into architecture, and eventually […]

From the Police to First Responder PTSD Advocate – Sean Haran

Born in Brighton, England, Sean moved to Australia at age seven. His dad’s Irish heritage led them to Fremantle, beginning a life of adventure in Perth. At 15, Sean’s navy dream ended due to colourblindness. He joined the Western Australian Police Academy in 1978, quickly finding his passion in policing. Sean served 15 years in […]

Resilience, courage, and caring for others with Andrew Mac Donald • Animals & Us E03

Andrew grew up in Sydney with a rare bone disorder (XLH), underwent painful surgeries, and experienced contrasting childhoods with his healthy twin brother. Despite physical challenges, Andrew pursued music and sound engineering, then became a Bunnings manager, utilising his organisational and managerial skills. At 24, Andrew confronted robbers at Bunnings, displaying bravery but subsequently faced […]

Dealing with loss and finding purpose with Kobe Steele • Animals & Us E02

Kobe Steele has always been an animal person in Australia, having lived with dogs and cats her whole life, treating them as beloved family members. After a successful career in media as a TV and radio host and before finding her calling in conservation, Kobe brought her communication skills to important environmental causes. After the […]

From Coma to Ironman Glory with Tynan Narywonczyk

Born and raised in Queensland, Tynan was a painting apprentice, living a typical young man’s life, when a tragic accident at 19 caused serious injuries, including a brain injury and coma. Doctors doubted his recovery, setting the stage for a long, tough journey ahead. Despite predictions, Tynan endured relentless medical appointments and rehab sessions. He […]

Trailer – Animals and Us – New Kintsugi Heroes Podcast Series

Animals & Us explores and celebrates the transformative power of human-animal connections. Each episode features guests sharing personal stories of how animals have brought healing, connection, and transformation to their lives, alongside insights from experts in eco-psychology, animal therapy, compassion, and animal communication. Rooted in the Biophilia Theory, Animals & Us recognises the essential bond […]

Transforming Illness and Grief through Storytelling with Asher Packman

Asher feels a deep connection to Byron Bay where he grew up. His father’s complex history, shaped Asher’s upbringing and their challenging relationship led to an early estrangement, but Asher is now committed to healing and reconnecting with his father. Initially he pursued a successful corporate career Asher found himself dissatisfied despite others perceiving him […]

On ADHD, Burning Out, Discovering Flow and Forgiving Yourself with Jamie Toyne

Born in Melbourne, Jamie faced adoption and an early ADHD diagnosis, but found solace and focus through sports, especially tennis and soccer. When he was six, Jamie moved to Alice Springs with his adoptive mother. Despite a rough environment, sports remained his constant anchor. He excelled in tennis, earning a sports scholarship and turning pro […]