From school’s easy routine to the rigorous world of the Defence Force, Taylor Ede has been on a journey of challenge, growth, and unexpected opportunities. In this episode, Taylor shares how she went from weighing her next steps after graduation to enlisting in the Army, navigating extended basic training during COVID-19, and later transitioning into the Air Force.

We talk about what it really takes to step into military life, from the physical and mental challenges of training to finding a career path in logistics, adapting to change, and carving out space as a young woman in a male-dominated environment. Taylor reflects on the resilience she’s built, the importance of female participation in the Forces, and the possibilities she sees for travel, leadership, and further study.

Whether you’re a student curious about life beyond school, someone considering a career in the military, or simply interested in hearing a story of grit and adaptability, this conversation offers an honest look at the realities of service, the lessons it teaches, and the doors it can open.

⏱️ Chapters:

00:00 From School to the Forces

06:03 Why Military Experience Mattered

11:57 Inside Basic Training During COVID-19

19:51 Discovering Logistics as a Career Path

22:15 Transitioning from Army to Air Force

29:46 Life on Base and Building Community

38:25 Navigating Gender Dynamics

46:24 Lessons in Resilience and Growth

50:45 Future Aspirations and Opportunities

From high school’s high-pressure halls to the vibrant world of creative education, Holly Gascoigne has been on a journey of passion, perseverance, and pushing her own boundaries. In this episode, Holly opens up about navigating academic expectations, making the leap to university, and embracing the opportunities—and challenges—of studying abroad.

We talk about what it really takes to pursue a creative career, from finding your “why” to funding your studies, building industry connections, and getting invaluable hands-on experience. Holly shares what she’s learned from halls of residence chaos, a design course full of autonomy, a transformative stint in Madrid, and creating her own book The Queen and the Bee.

Whether you’re a student, aspiring creative, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of the creative industries, this conversation is packed with insights on following your passion, managing the financial realities of education, and carving your own path in a competitive field.

• 💡 Takeaways:
• Passion drives persistence (and career success).
• Creative education opens diverse doors.
• Studying abroad is a game-changer for personal and professional growth.
• Your network is your net worth in creative industries.
• Financial management is just as important as creative skills.
• Real-world experience beats theory alone.
• Growth happens when you push past your comfort zone.

⏱️ Chapters:

• 00:00 Navigating High School Pressures
• 04:17 The Journey to Creative Education
• 09:16 Transitioning to University Life
• 11:49 Experiences in Halls of Residence
• 17:54 Funding Education and Managing Finances
• 20:33 Exploring the Creative Design Course
• 29:30 Studying Abroad: The Madrid Experience
• 37:06 Creating The Queen and the Bee Book
• 43:09 Career Path and Future Aspirations

From spinning tracks to spinning stories, Matt Hicks has always lived at the intersection of creativity and connection. In this episode, he takes us through his winding path in the entertainment industry - from a schoolboy with a passion for performance, to a DJ and event manager, to the filmmaker behind the feature film The Tavern.

Matt opens up about the five-year journey of bringing The Tavern to life, the unique and community-driven marketing strategies that set it apart, and the challenges of making a film that truly resonates with audiences. We explore how collaboration, networking, and personal growth have shaped his creative process - and get a sneak peek into his aspirations for future projects, including heart-driven sports storytelling.

If you love behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in creative perseverance, and the magic of bringing people together through art, this one’s for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🎧 How DJing & event management paved the way for filmmaking

🍻 The five-year labour of love behind The Tavern

📣 Creative grassroots marketing strategies that worked

🤝 Why collaboration & community matter more than ever

🏅 Matt’s vision for positive, uplifting sports storytelling

In this episode, drummer Felix Holton takes us behind the kit and into the heart of his music career — from realizing his passion for the drums at age 9 to touring the world with acclaimed New Zealand artist BENEE, playing stages like the O2 Arena in London and Coachella in California.

Felix opens up about the realities of the music industry, the vital role of education, and the delicate balancing act between a demanding tour schedule and personal life. We talk about the perseverance, passion, and community support that fueled his rise, the lessons learned from performing at major venues, and why drummers are often the glue that holds a band together. Whether you’re an aspiring musician or just curious about life on the road, Felix’s insights on risk-taking, networking, and self-belief will inspire you to keep chasing your next step.

💡 Episode Takeaways:

1. Plan A mentality.
2. Believe in yourself and your passion for music.
3. The drummer’s role is essential to a band’s success.
4. Education can shape and elevate musical growth.
5. Balancing life and music takes intention and discipline.
6. Networking is key to opportunities in the industry.
7. A healthy lifestyle is critical for touring musicians.

🔗 Follow Felix on Instagram: @felixholton

#music #drummer #career #musician #drums #podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Megan Gray to unpack her journey from the whirlwind of high school to carving out a meaningful career in public service. Megan opens up about the pressures of academic achievement, navigating personal identity, and the mental health challenges that shaped her along the way.

She shares how relationships - both inside and outside the classroom - became a grounding force during turbulent times, and why embracing failure was pivotal for her personal growth. From university life to finding her place in government work, Megan’s story is rich with lessons on resilience, authenticity, and pacing yourself through life’s marathon.

We also explore her love of travel, reflections on living in Tasmania, and her advice for future generations on building connections that truly matter.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The hidden pressures of high school and how to navigate them

Why building strong relationships is vital for personal and professional growth

The role of mental health in shaping identity and resilience

How to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success

Insights into public service and contributing to your community

The power of authenticity in attracting the right opportunities

Life lessons from travel and living abroad

"Life is a marathon, not a sprint."

This episode is a masterclass in wonder. We sit down with Mark Cairns, one of the UK’s top magicians and psychological mind readers, to unravel the fascinating journey that took him from a mathematics degree to captivating audiences with feats of mind-bending magic.

Mark opens up about the twists and turns that shaped his career — from his early academic achievements to finding his way into the prestigious Magic Circle. He shares how neurodiversity has influenced his life and art, why asking for help can be a superpower, and the lessons he’s learned overcoming personal challenges, including bullying and alcohol abuse.

You’ll hear:

✨ The moment maths gave way to magic.

✨ Behind-the-scenes insights into The Magic Circle.

✨ How neurodiversity became a strength in his performances.

✨ Raw, honest reflections on resilience and recovery.

✨ Advice for aspiring magicians — and anyone chasing their passion.

Whether you’re a magic enthusiast, a lover of inspiring stories, or just curious about the human mind, this conversation will leave you seeing the world with fresh eyes — and maybe a little more wonder.

🎧 Tune in now for an unforgettable journey into the extraordinary mind of Mark Cairns.

#Magic #MindReading #Neurodiversity #Inspiration

In this episode, we sit down with Cam Roigard who shares his journey from a young aspiring rugby player to becoming an All Black. He opens up about the resilience it took to get there, the challenges of balancing academics with elite sport, and the setbacks that shaped him along the way. Cam speaks to the power of surrounding yourself with good people, staying dedicated, and maintaining perspective in a high-performance world.

His story is a powerful reminder for young athletes that success isn’t just about talent - it’s about grit, support, and focusing on your next step.

🎯 Take-home Messages:

- Education and sports can coexist—balance is key.

- Resilience is crucial; don't let setbacks define you.

- Surround yourself with supportive people and mentors..

- Injuries are part of the journey.

- Stay humble and appreciate the opportunities you’re given.

- Success isn’t just talent- it’s hard work and preparation.

- Learn from others and be open to advice.

- Enjoy the journey and keep life in balance.

🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, we sit down with Gemma Lee - founder, designer, and former competitive swimmer - to dive into her journey from the pool to the world of women’s wetsuits. 🌊

Gemma opens up about her high school years, the leap into fashion design, and how she turned a personal passion into a bold, beautiful brand. We chat about designing specifically for women, keeping things personal as you grow, and what it really takes to start something from scratch.

Whether you're into sport, design, or just love a good entrepreneurial origin story - there’s plenty to soak up here.

Take-home gems:

• Chase the doors that open - don’t wait for the “perfect” moment
• Build something personal, and stay close to your “why”
• Design for the people you understand best
• Learn, adapt, and keep evolving - especially in fashion
• Female-focused design is more than a niche—it’s a need