⚠️ Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of mental illness, addiction, trauma, and suicide. Listener discretion is advised.

In this raw and revealing conversation, former NRL star Dan Hunt opens up about his journey from playing 150+ professional rugby league games to founding a national mental health movement that has trained over 500,000 Australians face-to-face.

Growing up in a household marked by domestic violence, Dan found safety, identity, and purpose in rugby league. As his professional career flourished, he maintained the persona of the "happy-go-lucky" teammate while secretly battling inner demons. It wasn't until a devastating Achilles injury in 2010 that his carefully constructed façade began to crumble, leading to self-medication with painkillers, alcohol, and illicit drugs.

Dan shares the pivotal moments that ultimately led to his diagnosis with type 2 bipolar disorder—from his mother's painful observation that he was "becoming his father" to a life-changing conversation with legendary coach Wayne Bennett. Rather than seeing his diagnosis as a setback, Dan describes it as "the books going back on the shelf in chronological order," finally making sense of his thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.

The conversation dives deep into the often-misunderstood distinction between mental health and mental illness, exploring how organisations can move beyond token awareness initiatives to create genuinely supportive environments. Dan's Mental Health Workplace Blueprint offers a framework for identifying psychosocial hazards, implementing real solutions, and treating the causes rather than just the symptoms of mental health challenges.

Most powerfully, Dan reveals his daily practices for mental fitness—ice baths, gratitude, exercise, connection, and regular "check-ups from the neck up" with his psychologist—while emphasising that everyone's journey is unique. For those currently struggling, he offers a heartfelt reminder: "Your struggles do matter... You may not see any light at the end of the tunnel at the moment, but it will pass."

Whether you're managing a mental illness, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in optimising your own mental fitness, this episode offers practical wisdom from someone who's been through the darkness and emerged to help others find their way.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Mental health in elite sport and high-performance environments
• The impact of injury, trauma, and undiagnosed illness
• Transitioning from professional sport to a purpose-driven life
• The difference between mental health and mental illness
• Building mental fitness as part of your daily routine
• Practical strategies for supporting yourself and others

📌 Disclaimer: The information in this episode is for general discussion and storytelling purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re struggling, please seek help from a qualified healthcare professional.

🛟 Support Services (Australia):

• Lifeline – 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au
• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.au
• Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 |

Send us a text

Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

Dive into the second part of this raw, unfiltered analysis of Australia's political landscape ahead of a crucial federal election. Former MP Michael Johnson and coffee entrepreneur Philip de Bella pull back the curtain on why our political system consistently delivers mediocrity—and why it's ultimately our fault as voters.

This episode addresses the painful truth that we have created a political environment where character assassination trumps vision, short-term popularity overrides long-term planning, and accountability is virtually nonexistent. As DiBella points out, "If a CEO failed to deliver what they promised after three years, they wouldn't even get an interview for another job"—yet politicians routinely break promises without facing consequences.

We explore how Australia's leadership challenges reflect deeper systemic issues: the rise of career politicians with limited real-world experience, parliamentary privilege that shields politicians from defamation consequences, and election cycles that incentivise band-aid solutions over structural reform. The housing affordability crisis serves as a prime example, representing a simple supply-demand equation complicated by political unwillingness to tell voters uncomfortable truths.

Perhaps most concerning is the revelation that talented young Australians are increasingly looking overseas to build businesses and careers, deterred by Australia's tax structure and policy instability. "My kids tell me they're not starting businesses in this country," shares de Bella, highlighting the generational consequences of our political failures.

Whether you're politically engaged or completely disillusioned, this conversation offers valuable context for making your vote count. As Johnson urges, "Vote for Australia, not necessarily for yourself." The message is clear: until Australians demand better by holding their leaders accountable, we'll continue to get the political system we deserve.

Send us a text

Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

When was the last time you truly understood what you were voting for? In this eye-opening conversation with former federal MP Michael Johnson and renowned entrepreneur Philip DiBella, we pull back the curtain on Australia's political landscape and examine how the upcoming federal election could reshape our nation's future.

Democracy isn't always what it seems. Our guests reveal how Australia's preferential voting system can result in candidates who receive fewer primary votes ultimately winning seats—something most voters don't fully grasp when casting their ballots. "We are a country of contradiction," DiBella observes, highlighting how our political structures often create outcomes at odds with voter intentions.

The discussion takes a fascinating turn when examining the economic backbone of Australia. With 9.9 million Australians employed by small and medium businesses (compared to just 3 million in government), why do politicians making decisions about business regulations often have zero experience running a company? We explore how escalating costs are crushing hospitality businesses, with labour expenses jumping from 30-35% pre-COVID to an unsustainable 45-55% today.

As international tensions rise, our guests offer thought-provoking insights on Australia's precarious position between the US and China—what DiBella calls "trying to ride two bicycles at the same time." Johnson delivers a sobering warning about defence spending and national security that should concern every Australian thinking about the future.

Perhaps most revealing is the stark contrast between business and political accountability. In business, leaders who fail to deliver on promises face consequences. In politics, failed promises lead to attacking opponents rather than accepting responsibility—a cycle that undermines meaningful progress.

Whether you're politically engaged or feeling disillusioned with the whole system, this conversation will transform how you view Australian politics. Join us for this candid, non-partisan exploration of what really matters as we approach a watershed election that will shape our collective future.

Subscribe to the Mastering Podcast for more thought-provoking conversations on the issues that matter most to Australians. Your vote is powerful—but only when cast with understanding.

Check out the Coffee Commune here.

Check out The Mastering Podcast on YouTube here.

Send us a text

Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

The smashing sound of cricket balls flying over boundaries may have made Chris Lynn famous, but it's his journey beyond the cricket pitch that reveals his most impressive talents. In this captivating conversation, the explosive Australian batsman opens up about transforming from a rugby league prospect to one of cricket's most feared T20 batsmen—despite multiple career-threatening shoulder reconstructions.

Lynn pulls back the curtain on the mental game that elite athletes must master, sharing how visualization techniques and proper breathing helped him maintain confidence through performance slumps. "If I miss out, don't get itchy feet," he explains about his batting mindset. "I say I'm not out of form – I'm one game closer to the man of the match." This perspective has enabled him to remain one of cricket's premier power hitters while balancing family life and business ventures.

Chris Lynn shares his transformative journey from elite T20 cricketer to purposeful leader as the founder of Playbook Coach, a platform connecting athletes with quality coaching across 32 different sports.

• Evolution from Test cricket aspirations to becoming a T20 powerhouse due to injuries and attraction to the shorter format
• Mental resilience strategies including visualization, breathing techniques, and positive framing of performance slumps
• The physical toll of multiple shoulder reconstructions that forced adaptation in his playing style
• Insights into global T20 franchise cricket and predictions about cricket's future in America
• Creation of Playbook Coach as a way to democratize access to quality sports coaching
• Challenges of transitioning from professional athlete to entrepreneur while still competing at an elite level
• The importance of balancing a cricket career with family life and business ventures

The conversation shifts from cricket fields to entrepreneurial pitches as Lynn reveals the story behind Playbook Coach, his platform connecting aspiring athletes with quality coaching across 32 different sports. "It's like Uber for sports coaches," Lynn explains, driven by his passion to provide others with the mentoring opportunities that shaped his career. The platform addresses a critical gap in sports development while helping athletes transition beyond their playing days.

Whether discussing the evolution of cricket, breaking down the art of hitting sixes, or sharing insights about entrepreneurship, Lynn brings the same explosive energy to conversation that cricket fans worldwide have witnessed on the field. Join us for this fascinating exploration of athletic excellence, purposeful leadership, and giving back to the sports that shape us. Ready to master your own game? This episode delivers the coaching you need.

Check out Playbook Coach to find quality coaching in your area or to offer your expertise to the next generation of athletes.

Send us a text

Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

The AI revolution is here, transforming how we work, build businesses, and solve problems at unprecedented speed. In this illuminating conversation with Lucas Meadowcroft, founder of Crofty and veteran technology entrepreneur, we unpack the realities behind AI implementation and dispel common misconceptions.

Lucas breaks down the crucial distinction between AI and automation, revealing that most business AI implementation is actually 80% automation with only 20% true artificial intelligence. This perspective helps demystify what's happening in the technology landscape and offers practical insights for business leaders wondering how to approach this rapid change.

The most powerful takeaway? "AI won't replace your jobs, but people using AI will replace your jobs." This isn't about fearing technology but embracing how it can transform your work life by eliminating tedious tasks. Lucas challenges listeners to identify what they truly love doing in their roles and focus exclusively on that, using AI to handle everything else. This shift is already enabling businesses to reach a million-dollar revenue with just four staff instead of the traditional 15-20 employees.

We also explore the evolving investment landscape, where venture capitalists no longer seek "AI companies" but instead expect AI integration as standard in any business. Yet despite ChatGPT's massive impact on public awareness, Lucas believes we still haven't seen the true "Steve Jobs moment" for AI, suggesting we're only at the beginning of this technological revolution. With forecasts of $15 trillion in market value to be added in the next five years and medical research timelines collapsing from decades to years, the message is clear: don't fear what's coming, but position yourself to capitalize on it. Are you ready to become an AI-first business?

• AI won't replace your jobs, but people using AI will replace jobs
• Focus on what you love doing and let AI handle everything else
• Admin roles will be eliminated as AI takes over routine tasks
• Companies can now reach $1M revenue with just 4 staff instead of 15-20
• Becoming an "AI-first company" requires a fundamental mindset shift
• VCs are now investing in traditional businesses using AI rather than AI companies
• We haven't yet seen the "Steve Jobs moment" for AI
• Forecasts suggest AI will add $15T to the market in the next five years
• Medical research timeframes are collapsing from 50 years to potentially 2 years
• Australia lags behind the EU and the UK in AI governance and regulation

Don't fear what's happening with AI, embrace it. Where can it add value to your life?

Send us a text

Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

Yussi's transformation from civil engineering student to international drum and bass producer offers a masterclass in artistic dedication and modern music entrepreneurship. With over 167,000 monthly Spotify listeners and a European tour on the horizon, his story demolishes the stereotype of electronic musicians as mere "button pushers."

The South African-born, Australian-based artist reveals how his passion ignited at a quarry party on the Sunshine Coast, leading to humble beginnings with a camping table set up at house parties. The pivotal moment came when he abandoned the security of his engineering career to pursue music production full-time—a decision that demanded extraordinary commitment. Yussi meticulously logged his production hours, surpassing the mythical 10,000-hour threshold separating hobbyists from masters.

His cross-genre approach to drum and bass separates Yussi from countless other electronic producers. Rather than recycling standard samples, he deliberately incorporates elements from house, R&B, and other styles to create a signature sound that stands apart while remaining accessible. This strategy exemplifies his philosophy that developing a unique artistic identity builds a more sustainable career than chasing trending sounds for short-term gains.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when exploring the business realities behind the artistic facade. Yussi candidly discusses the 60/40 split between music creation and marketing that defines his current workflow, the strategic relationships with multiple record labels rather than exclusive deals, and how working with the right management opened doors previously inaccessible. For aspiring producers, his insights into maintaining physical and mental health amidst creative obsession provide a crucial blueprint for sustainable success.

Whether you're a music production enthusiast or simply curious about how creative careers unfold in the digital age, Yussi's journey demonstrates that becoming exceptional requires more than talent—it demands relentless practice, strategic thinking, and the courage to forge your own sonic identity. Subscribe now and join the conversation about what it truly takes to master your craft.


Find Yussi on Spotify, SoundCloud and Instagram @yussiyussiyussi to check out his music, including his 30 new tracks in development.

Send us a text

Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

Elite athletes distinguish themselves through intention, commitment, passion, and natural hunger – traits that translate to success in any field, including wealth creation.

• Former Tennis Queensland acting CEO Elia Hill's journey from playing tennis professionally to coaching and administration
• The importance of curiosity and always asking "why" as a pathway to success
• Tennis Australia's remarkable success as a sports organization built on exceptional leadership
• How compounding works in wealth creation – laying one brick every day builds a wall over time.
• Property investment strategies that don't require living on "beans and rice."
• The gap between financial education taught in schools versus real-world wealth creation principles
• Why saving for a large deposit can be counterproductive as property prices rise faster than savings
• The effectiveness of off-the-plan property investment requiring only a 10% deposit initially
• Importance of developing a wealth mindset rather than focusing on immediate gratification

From the tennis court to financial freedom, Elia Hill's journey is a masterclass in transitioning passion into purpose. The former Tennis Queensland acting CEO and our Mastering teams share how the mindset of elite athletes—unwavering commitment, natural hunger, and relentless drive—shaped her approach to wealth creation and helping others achieve financial independence.

"Every day, you decide that you're going to lay one brick," Magnus explains, revealing the power of small, consistent actions that compound over time. This philosophy underpins Elia's current role as Chief Growth Officer at Neustar, where she guides clients through property investment strategies most never learned in school.

The conversation tackles the seemingly insurmountable challenge young people face with average house prices hitting $1 million. Rather than traditional saving methods that can't keep pace with rising property values, the team outlines alternative approaches like off-the-plan investments where a 10% deposit can grow substantially during construction.

What stands out is the stark contrast between financial education and real-world wealth creation. "You don't learn about recycling debt. You don't learn about tax efficiencies," she points out, highlighting why many high-income earners still struggle financially while those with moderate incomes but smarter strategies pull ahead.

This episode bridges sports psychology and financial strategy, demonstrating how elite athletes' discipline, curiosity, and strategic thinking create a foundation for success in any field. Whether you're at the starting line of your financial journey or looking to accelerate your wealth creation, Elia's insights will transform how you view the building blocks of financial freedom.

If you got value from today's conversation, hit that subscribe button now and share this episode with a friend.

*The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Send us a text

Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

Tim Franklin isn't just an ultra marathon runner—he's a testament to what happens when you push beyond the boundaries of possibility. As one of only eight people to ever run around the world, Tim's accomplishment puts him in a club more exclusive than those who've walked on the moon.

Over 576 grueling days, Tim covered an astounding 26,246 kilometers—the equivalent of 622 consecutive marathons—while climbing 251,351 metres of elevation across 19 countries and five continents. But the numbers only tell a fraction of the story.

What began as an intrinsically motivated adventure transformed into something far deeper as Tim confronted physical challenges and profound personal loss. About 150 days into his journey, Tim learned his father had terminal cancer, forcing him to pause his run to say goodbye temporarily. With his father's final words—"You go and finish that damn run"—echoing in his mind, Tim returned to the road, forever changed but more determined than ever.

• Completing the equivalent of 622 consecutive marathons, averaging 46 kilometers a day for 576 days
• Running through 19 countries across five continents with minimal support crew
• Training sensibly with 150-250km weekly volume to prepare without overtraining
• Starting in Brisbane, then traversing New Zealand, America, South America, UK, Europe, and Australia
• Consuming approximately 2,000 bananas and burning 3.5 million calories during the journey
• Maintaining a sustainable pace of 6-7 minutes per kilometer throughout most of the run
• Dealing with the loss of his father during the journey and returning home to say goodbye
• Learning profound lessons about resilience, patience and redefining personal success
• Emphasizing the importance of consistency over intensity in achieving ambitious goals
• Finding joy in the adventure rather than focusing solely on breaking records

For anyone feeling stuck or believing it's too late to pursue their dreams, Tim offers simple but powerful advice: commit to starting, then become the hardest worker in the room. As he says, "Consistency beats intensity"—a philosophy that carried him through 26,000 kilometers and continues to guide his mission of getting the entire world moving.

Send us a text

Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️