Brave Always

In this special episode I get to sit down and chat with the man himself, Sammy Thaiday. Broncos Legend, State of Origin and Australia NRL rep, TV & Radio entertainer and one of my long-time friends.

In this open and candid interview Sammy puts it all on the table. From his early challenges with his identity, navigating success at an early age and having to figure it all out post the end of his professional sports career.  He’s absolutely the funny man we know and love, but he’s also a passionate Dad and Husband, a bit of a poet and unafraid to face his own demons on his own Brave journey.

Michael Schneider truly is one of Australia’s most humble CEO’s. He’s down to earth, passionate, a man of the people and you would absolutely find him more comfortable in his Bunnings “Reds” than behind a corporate desk. In this episode Michael vulnerably shares his love for the iconic Aussie brand and the experiences that shaped his drive and determination to reach the top. He knows who he is, and what matters in life and isn’t afraid to have the tough conversations….even if he doesn’t like doing them still!

As a Brisbane girl, this was a very special episode. JC, along with two high school friends started their journey as Powderfinger as high school students from Brisbane. Their careers spanned 21 years and changed the landscape for rock music at the time, particularly for the Brisbane music scene. JC has continued his music journey, behind the scenes opening both the Triffid and Fortitude Valley music Hall. His story is one of resilience, hard work and an unwavering belief that keeping calm and positive is simply the best way to approach life.

Julie McLellan is as close as you’ll get to a born leader. Facing challenges and change from an early age, she got comfortable with the uncomfortable, and wasn’t afraid of the responsibility that comes with creating the kind of culture (and world) she wanted to live in. It’s something she continues to work on today, and her ability to ‘tell it like it is’ is both enlightening, and incredibly refreshing. 

Lorie Argus has unknowingly been a champion for females in senior leadership roles her whole life. From her early career at Virgin as one of the first female senior leaders, to now being only 1 of 2 female CEO’s of Australian airports she continues to prove that being authentically yourself, being aware and honest of your shortcomings and never believing your better than anyone else are all powerful ingredients for any leader. She’s funny, humble and incredibly real about the challenges that come with leading at the top, whilst being a wife, a mother and continuing to push yourself to be better everyday.  One of my favourite conversations with one of my early inspirations!