In this episode I sit down with Kendall Gilding and what struck me most wasn't the twenty years on camera or being one of the youngest news anchors in the country. It was her honesty about what it actually cost to hold it all together.

For eight years Kendall was the face of Queensland's afternoon news. And then she walked away from the thing that made her, to build something of her own. What unfolds in this conversation is so much more than a career story. We talk about what it really takes to look composed when you're falling apart behind the scenes, the quiet bravery of leaving, and what she's learning about leading as herself rather than the version the anchor desk asked her to be.

My chat with Kendall was just the reminder I needed that day. That we're all just doing our best and are so very human. As inspired as I always am in my chats with people with such incredible success stories, it's their immense vulnerability that inspires me the most. This was no exception

In this episode I sit down with Kendall Gilding and what struck me most wasn't the twenty years on camera or being one of the youngest news anchors in the country. It was her honesty about what it actually cost to hold it all together. For eight years Kendall was the face of Queensland's afternoon news. And then she walked away from the thing that made her, to build something of her own. What unfolds in this conversation is so much more than a career story. We talk about what it really takes to look composed when you're falling apart behind the scenes, the quiet bravery of leaving, and what she's learning about leading as herself rather than the version the anchor desk asked her to be.
My chat with Kendall was just the reminder I needed that day. That we're all just doing our best and are so very human. As inspired as I always am in my chats with people with such incredible success stories, it's their immense vulnerability that inspires me the most. This was no exception

Kendall Gilding, Former 7NEWS Queensland Presenter and Founder of The Art of Communication

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/a8e94ff8-8092-482f-acd6-b487004c4c3f/transcript

He started in real estate at 16 and never looked back. Jonny built Housemark, Wingman Group and the entire CREATE Holdings empire into something rare: a business that scales without losing its soul. This one is full of gold. His approach to trust, culture and building in the messy middle makes him one of the most compelling young leaders in the country.

He started in real estate at 16 and never looked back. Jonny built Housemark, Wingman Group and the entire CREATE Holdings empire into something rare: a business that scales without losing its soul. This one is full of gold. His approach to trust, culture and building in the messy middle makes him one of the most compelling young leaders in the country.

Jonny Bell, Founder of CREATE Holdings and Wingman Group

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/60e7fab9-3755-4f37-9085-b460000862ab/transcript

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Moore. Former Wallabies Captain, World Cup winner, and one of Australian rugby's most decorated leaders.

And honestly? I wasn't prepared for how much I'd like him.

Because Stephen Moore is not what you'd expect. He's not the alpha in the room. He's not the guy performing his own highlight reel. He's someone who will openly tell you what he doesn't know, what he's still figuring out, and why he thinks relationships and trust matter more than almost anything else in leadership.

Watching him navigate the leap from elite sport into the corporate world. With no ego, no armour, just a genuine commitment to keep growing, reminded me that the best leaders aren't the ones who've arrived. They're the ones who never stop becoming.

This conversation left me thinking: this is exactly the kind of person you'd want leading you. Not because he's impressive (though he is) but because he's real.

Unscripted. Honest. And quietly one of the most compelling leaders I've sat across from.

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Moore. Former Wallabies Captain, World Cup winner, and one of Australian rugby's most decorated leaders.
And honestly? I wasn't prepared for how much I'd like him.
Because Stephen Moore is not what you'd expect. He's not the alpha in the room. He's not the guy performing his own highlight reel. He's someone who will openly tell you what he doesn't know, what he's still figuring out, and why he thinks relationships and trust matter more than almost anything else in leadership.
Watching him navigate the leap from elite sport into the corporate world. With no ego, no armour, just a genuine commitment to keep growing, reminded me that the best leaders aren't the ones who've arrived. They're the ones who never stop becoming.
This conversation left me thinking: this is exactly the kind of person you'd want leading you. Not because he's impressive (though he is) but because he's real.
Unscripted. Honest. And quietly one of the most compelling leaders I've sat across from.

Stephen Moore, AM Managing Director BMS Group Former Australian Rugby Union Captain

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/002b3f10-d652-425a-b9d5-b4270034f671/transcript

You know when two different people tell you, “You really need to meet her”? There’s usually a reason.
That was Jess Caire for me. And they were right.

Jess is sharp, accomplished, and leads in a space that’s traditionally male and corporate. But what struck me wasn’t just what she does. It was how she does it. She’s warm, funny, self-aware, and disarmingly real. The kind of person who makes you feel at ease while also reminding you of what’s possible.

In this episode, Jess shares her journey, from running her own business at 25, to stepping into senior leadership roles and navigating rooms not always designed for women. She’s honest about the learning, generous with her insight, and never afraid to laugh at herself.

Jess is a reminder that the best leaders aren’t the ones who pretend they’ve arrived. They’re the ones who stay open, keep growing, and lead with both impact and humility.

You know when two different people tell you, &ldquo;You really need to meet her&rdquo;? There&rsquo;s usually a reason. That was Jess Caire for me. And they were right.
Jess is sharp, accomplished, and leads in a space that&rsquo;s traditionally male and corporate. But what struck me wasn&rsquo;t just what she does. It was how she does it. She&rsquo;s warm, funny, self-aware, and disarmingly real. The kind of person who makes you feel at ease while also reminding you of what&rsquo;s possible.
In this episode, Jess shares her journey, from running her own business at 25, to stepping into senior leadership roles and navigating rooms not always designed for women. She&rsquo;s honest about the learning, generous with her insight, and never afraid to laugh at herself.
Jess is a reminder that the best leaders aren&rsquo;t the ones who pretend they&rsquo;ve arrived. They&rsquo;re the ones who stay open, keep growing, and lead with both impact and humility.

Jess Caire, Executive Director of Property Council QLD

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/2ca164ea-a00d-40fc-b3a1-b3b0007a2cae/transcript

In this episode, I sit down with David Hanham, CEO of the Queensland Rugby Union. And what struck me most wasn’t the role, the pressure, or the responsibility… it was his honesty.

David is one of those rare leaders willing to speak openly about the things he hasn’t always done well. The missteps, the blind spots, the moments he struggled. And hearing a CEO talk that vulnerably is powerful. What unfolds in this conversation is a masterclass in self-awareness: understanding your strengths, owning your weaknesses, and putting simple, practical steps in place to become a better human and a better leader.

It reminded me that even at the highest levels, leadership is deeply human. And speaking with David felt less like interviewing a CEO and more like talking to a good friend. Real, grounded, generous.

In this episode, I sit down with David Hanham, CEO of the Queensland Rugby Union. And what struck me most wasn&rsquo;t the role, the pressure, or the responsibility&hellip; it was his honesty.
David is one of those rare leaders willing to speak openly about the things he hasn&rsquo;t always done well. The missteps, the blind spots, the moments he struggled. And hearing a CEO talk that vulnerably is powerful. What unfolds in this conversation is a masterclass in self-awareness: understanding your strengths, owning your weaknesses, and putting simple, practical steps in place to become a better human and a better leader.
It reminded me that even at the highest levels, leadership is deeply human. And speaking with David felt less like interviewing a CEO and more like talking to a good friend. Real, grounded, generous.

David Hanham CEO, QLD Ruby Union (Reds)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/f4e10975-330c-4087-aac3-b39900661f8e/transcript

In this episode, I sit down with Zimi Meka, Co-Founder and CEO of Ausenco ,a Brisbane start-up that grew into one of the world’s most respected engineering companies.

Zimi’s story is one of grit, heart, and quiet conviction. From his father’s journey as a refugee to his own path as a global leader, he shares the moments that shaped him ,the setbacks, the instincts he trusted, and the values that never shifted.

It’s an honest conversation about boldness, humility, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.

In this episode, I sit down with Zimi Meka, Co-Founder and CEO of Ausenco ,a Brisbane start-up that grew into one of the world&rsquo;s most respected engineering companies.
Zimi&rsquo;s story is one of grit, heart, and quiet conviction. From his father&rsquo;s journey as a refugee to his own path as a global leader, he shares the moments that shaped him ,the setbacks, the instincts he trusted, and the values that never shifted.
It&rsquo;s an honest conversation about boldness, humility, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.

Zimi Meka, Co Founder & CEO of Ausenco 

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/90aa9d33-95dc-46f8-b153-b38e005bff7d/transcript

In this episode, I sit down with the unstoppable Ashy Bines. Entrepreneur, creator, and one of Australia’s original fitness influencers.

Ashy opens up about what it took to rise above the critics, silence the noise, and truly back herself, even when it meant walking away from the career that made her famous. We talk about self-belief, evolution, and the courage to make bold choices in pursuit of genuine happiness.

It’s an honest, inspiring conversation with a woman who doesn’t just talk about growth - she lives it.

In this episode, I sit down with the unstoppable Ashy Bines. Entrepreneur, creator, and one of Australia&rsquo;s original fitness influencers.
Ashy opens up about what it took to rise above the critics, silence the noise, and truly back herself, even when it meant walking away from the career that made her famous. We talk about self-belief, evolution, and the courage to make bold choices in pursuit of genuine happiness.
It&rsquo;s an honest, inspiring conversation with a woman who doesn&rsquo;t just talk about growth - she lives it.

Ashy Bines, Co-Founder of She Rises & Hideaway, empowering women worldwide

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/835c634c-db06-4cf6-98ee-b382018aa583/transcript

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Mick Willing . CEO of Fortem Australia and former Deputy Commissioner of the NSW Police Force. Mick shares his remarkable journey through 31 years of policing and high‑stakes leadership, from commanding homicide investigations and counter‑terrorism operations to guiding the whole of regional field operations. He reflects on the weight of the uniform, the process of stepping out of it, and what it takes to lead with purpose beyond the badge. It’s a grounded and powerful conversation with a man of deep integrity, grit, and quiet strength.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Mick Willing . CEO of Fortem Australia and former Deputy Commissioner of the NSW Police Force. Mick shares his remarkable journey through 31 years of policing and high‑stakes leadership, from commanding homicide investigations and counter‑terrorism operations to guiding the whole of regional field operations. He reflects on the weight of the uniform, the process of stepping out of it, and what it takes to lead with purpose beyond the badge. It&rsquo;s a grounded and powerful conversation with a man of deep integrity, grit, and quiet strength.

CEO of Fortem Australia and former Deputy Commissioner of the New South Wales Police Force

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/14368d9c-a427-498e-a3b0-b37c00299112/transcript

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Kylie Blucher - Managing Director of Nine Queensland & Northern NSW.

Kylie shares her journey through a remarkable career in media leadership, reflecting on what it takes to stay grounded, authentic, and human while leading at the top. She talks about hard work, courage, and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing exactly who you are, whether you’re in the boardroom or at home.

It’s an inspiring and down-to-earth conversation with a woman of fierce grit, warmth, and unwavering authenticity.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Kylie Blucher - Managing Director of Nine Queensland &amp; Northern NSW.
Kylie shares her journey through a remarkable career in media leadership, reflecting on what it takes to stay grounded, authentic, and human while leading at the top. She talks about hard work, courage, and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing exactly who you are, whether you&rsquo;re in the boardroom or at home.
It&rsquo;s an inspiring and down-to-earth conversation with a woman of fierce grit, warmth, and unwavering authenticity.

Kylie Blucher - Managing Director of Nine Queensland & Northern NSW

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/247393d3-e431-4118-88e5-b371000a3d47/transcript

Samantha Vidler leads with quiet strength and decades of wisdom. With over 30 years at PwC, she’s built deep relationships across Queensland’s business community and carved out a career rooted in purpose, people, and calm leadership.

In this episode, Sam shares the lessons she’s learned across three decades — from navigating complexity to staying grounded in what really matters.

Samantha Vidler leads with quiet strength and decades of wisdom. With over 30 years at PwC, she&rsquo;s built deep relationships across Queensland&rsquo;s business community and carved out a career rooted in purpose, people, and calm leadership.
In this episode, Sam shares the lessons she&rsquo;s learned across three decades &mdash; from navigating complexity to staying grounded in what really matters.

Samantha Vidler, Managing Partner QLD, PWC

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/a41a05e8-77be-440b-ba4c-b2fe0077f862/transcript

Brave Always is a podcast that explores all things BRAVE ( Bold, Resilient, Authentic, Vulnerable and Empathetic) with some of Australia’s best CEO’s, entrepreneurs and outstanding leaders in their field. Hosted by the Founder of Emjoy, Emma Hall with over 20 years experience in Leadership, Employee Experience and Culture. As the former GM of Culture for Virgin Australia, Emma is passionate about truly changing the landscape of culture, through braver leadership. The conversations dive deep into each guest’s journey to success, explores the challenges along the way and showcases to all that real leadership, requires real vulnerability and real bravery. These are conversations you would unlikely ever here from some of the best in the business. 

Brave Always is a podcast that explores all things BRAVE ( Bold, Resilient, Authentic, Vulnerable and Empathetic) with some of Australia’s best CEO’s, entrepreneurs and outstanding leaders in their field. Hosted by the Founder of Emjoy, Emma Hall with over 20 years experience in Leadership, Employee Experience and Culture. As the former GM of Culture for Virgin Australia, Emma is passionate about truly changing the landscape of culture, through braver leadership. The conversations dive deep into each guest’s journey to success, explores the challenges along the way and showcases to all that real leadership, requires real vulnerability and real bravery. These are conversations you would unlikely ever here from some of the best in the business.

Brave Always

Brave always is a people podcast designed for everyday people to ask those burning questions when it comes to work.  Emma and Luke are leaders in the field of culture and employee experience and have over 25 years experience leading culture, engagement, recruitment & holding senior leadership roles. Following on from a long tenure leading culture at one of the worlds global brands Virgin, they launched Emjoy in early 2021, with a passion to help make real change in the world of culture, leadership and helping people love where they work. This podcast is informative but light-hearted and aims to help everyone from employees to leaders look at the challenges they face with a new perspective.

Brave Always

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