Speak Your Truth

Understanding Back Pain: Prevention, Posture & Practical Solutions Detailed Show Description Back pain is one of the most common health concerns affecting people of all ages, from school-aged children to office workers, busy parents, and retirees. In this informative episode of Speak Your Truth with Pri, we dive deep into the causes, prevention, treatment, and long-term management of back pain with expert physiotherapy insights. Listeners will gain a better understanding of the most common causes of back pain and learn the important differences between mechanical and inflammatory back pain. We explore how posture influences spinal health, the impact of poor habits on daily life, and practical strategies to maintain healthy posture at work, home, and school. The discussion also highlights the importance of postural analysis, explaining how it helps identify underlying issues before they develop into chronic pain conditions. Special attention is given to children and young people, emphasizing why healthy posture habits should begin early to support growth, development, and overall wellbeing. With more people working remotely than ever before, we also examine the challenges of working from home and provide practical ergonomic tips to create a healthier workspace. The conversation then focuses on treatment and recovery options, including:  Physiotherapy techniques for pain relief and rehabilitation  The role of exercise in strengthening the spine and preventing future injury  Understanding electrotherapy and TENS machines and how they assist in pain management  Lifestyle changes that can help reduce, manage, and prevent back pain Whether you're currently experiencing back pain, caring for a loved one, working long hours at a desk, or simply looking to improve your overall health, this episode offers valuable, evidence-based advice to help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free. Tune in to Speak Your Truth with Pri on Alive 90.5FM for a practical and empowering conversation on understanding back pain and taking control of your spinal health.

Menopause is a natural stage of life, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and under-discussed health experiences affecting women. In this important episode of Speak Your Truth Show, host Pri Abayakoon sits down with Dr Nive Manokaran, an experienced medical practitioner passionate about women's health and holistic wellbeing, to have an open, honest and empowering conversation about menopause and perimenopause. Together, they unpack what menopause really is, the signs and symptoms women should be aware of, and why many women experience challenges such as brain fog, mood changes, sleep disturbances, fatigue and loss of confidence. Dr Nive also addresses common myths, explains available treatment options, and shares practical lifestyle strategies that can help women improve their overall wellbeing and quality of life. This episode goes beyond the physical symptoms to explore how menopause impacts relationships, family life, workplaces and mental health. Most importantly, it reminds listeners that they are not alone and that support, information and effective solutions are available. Whether you are approaching menopause, currently experiencing it, supporting a loved one through it, or simply wanting to learn more, this conversation provides valuable insights, reassurance and practical guidance. Key Topics Covered: Understanding menopause and perimenopause Common and lesser-known symptoms Brain fog, memory changes and mood fluctuations Debunking menopause myths Lifestyle changes that can help Hormone therapy and treatment options Supporting women through menopause Empowering women to thrive during midlife and beyond Tune in for a compassionate and informative discussion designed to help women navigate this stage of life with confidence, knowledge and self-compassion. Host: Pri Abayakoon Guest: Dr Nive Manokaran Program: Speak Your Truth Show Station: Alive 90.5FM Community Radio

Many Stories, One Australia series: Deputy Mayor for city of paramatta Charles Chen's Journey of Leadership, Belonging and Community In this inspiring episode of Speak Your Truth with Pri on Alive 90.5FM, Pri sits down with the Deputy Mayor of the City of Parramatta, Councilor Charles Chen, for a heartfelt conversation about identity, belonging, leadership, and the Australian story. As part of the Many Stories, One Australia series, Charles shares his family's migration journey, the cultural values that shaped him, and the experiences that led him into public service in one of Australia's most diverse and rapidly growing cities. From his early beginnings and cultural heritage to his role as Deputy Mayor, Charles reflects on the importance of community, the power of multiculturalism, and the responsibility of leadership in building a more inclusive society. Together, Pri and Charles explore: • The influence of family, culture, and tradition • Navigating identity between heritage and modern Australia • Building belonging in a multicultural community • Leadership, local government, and community service • The future of Parramatta and Australia's next generation • The power of social cohesion and shared values This episode is a powerful reminder that while our journeys may be different, our stories collectively shape the rich tapestry of Australia. Many Stories. One Australia. A shared future built through understanding, respect, and contribution.

Speak Your Truth Show with Pri on Alive 90.5 FM Lifestyle Matters with Pri Episode: The Rise of Side Hustles What starts as a hobby, a passion project, or even a simple act of helping others can sometimes grow into something much bigger. In this inspiring episode of Lifestyle Matters, Pri explores the growing world of side hustles and the stories behind the people turning skills, passions, and everyday opportunities into extra income, thriving businesses, and meaningful community impact. From homemade food businesses and online plant sales to lamp restoration, personalised birthday videos, dog transportation services, and grassroots cricket coaching, listeners share the unexpected journeys that transformed hobbies into opportunities. This episode dives into:  Why side hustles are becoming more popular than ever  Turning passions into profit without losing the joy  Financial necessity versus personal fulfilment  The dream of becoming your own boss  How some of the best business ideas start by accident  Whether every hobby really needs to become a business  Lessons learned from everyday entrepreneurs Through heartfelt listener stories, thought-provoking discussions, and a few fun debates, Pri highlights the creativity, resilience, and courage behind people who dared to start something new. Whether you already have a side hustle, are considering one, or simply love hearing stories of everyday people achieving extraordinary things, this conversation will leave you inspired to think differently about the possibilities around you. Because sometimes success begins with a family recipe, a forgotten lamp, a ride for a neighbour's dog, or a love of cricket. Tune in and discover why the rise of side hustles is about much more than making money. It's about purpose, creativity, community, and believing in yourself. Host: Pri Abayakoon Program: Lifestyle Matters Station: Alive 90.5 FM

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Manjula Viswanath, a respected community leader, cultural advocate, and CEO of the Sydney Community Group. From her journey as a migrant arriving in Australia in 2001 to becoming one of Sydney's most influential voices in community service and multicultural engagement, Manjula shares the experiences that shaped her passion for helping others. In this special interview, we explore:  The story behind Sydney Community Group and its impact across Sydney  Supporting vulnerable communities and tackling social isolation  Women's leadership and empowering the next generation  The role of arts and culture in building stronger communities  The success of Rasika Dance Academy and the celebrated Chandraleka production  Her vision for the future of the Sydney Hills Shire and community development An uplifting conversation about service, leadership, cultural pride, and creating meaningful change. Listen now and be inspired by the power of community.  

Pause to Pivot: Finding Your Way Again In a world that constantly encourages us to keep moving, what if the most powerful step forward is actually a step back? This thought-provoking episode explores the importance of pausing to reflect, reassess, and realign with what truly matters. Through psychological insights, real-life examples, and practical reflection tools, we dive into why so many people feel stuck despite appearing successful, and how stepping back can create the clarity needed to move forward with purpose. We discuss the psychology behind change, including metacognition, goal disengagement and re-engagement, the sunk cost effect, fear of change, and how small, intentional pivots can lead to profound life transformation. If you've ever questioned your direction, felt disconnected from your goals, or sensed that your life no longer reflects who you're becoming, this episode is for you. Remember: Letting go of the wrong goal doesn't set you back—it sets you free.

Coming of Age: A Conversation on Becoming, Belonging & Being Description: What does it really mean to come of age? In this intimate and deeply reflective conversation, Pri sits down with Sri Lankan-Australian writer Yasasi Malmeewala, author of Coming of Age—a powerful collection of poetry and prose that explores girlhood, grief, identity, and the quiet complexity of becoming. From navigating dual identities and diaspora blues to redefining love, loneliness, and self-worth, Yasasi invites us into a world where writing becomes both refuge and revelation. This episode moves between the personal and the political—touching on modern womanhood, the meaning of “home,” the tenderness of grief, and the courage it takes to be fully seen.  A conversation for anyone who has ever felt in-between, undone, or still becoming.

Future Builders! Featuring: Nivanthi Reji Educator | Careers Adviser | Industry Connector Where Schools + Industry Unite to Build Tomorrow’s Workforce. In this powerful episode of Future Force Live, host Pri is joined by renowned educator and careers adviser Nivanthi Reji to unpack one of the most urgent challenges facing our communities: the disconnect between schools and industry. With over a decade working across Sydney schools, Nivanthi shares real stories from the classroom—especially from low‑SES communities—highlighting how early industry exposure can transform student confidence, aspiration, and employability. This episode isn’t just a conversation. It’s a direct call to action for employers, industry leaders, and organisations to step into schools and help shape the future workforce—through mentoring, workplace exposure, conversations, and collaboration.  If you’re in industry and wondering how to build talent pipelines that actually work—this show is for you.

Reclaiming Your Narrative Because you were never meant to live someone else’s story. In this powerful and reflective episode, Pri invites all—especially those navigating midlife, identity shifts, and quiet reinvention—into a deeply grounding conversation about authorship, truth, and becoming. So much of who we believe ourselves to be was shaped by expectations, survival, and roles we learned to perform. This episode gently explores what happens when that story no longer fits—and the courage it takes to acknowledge the whisper that says, “There’s more.” Through thoughtful reflection and embodied insight, Pri unpacks: How we inherit stories that once kept us safe—but now keep us small The hidden cost of staying in a life that’s “good enough” Why permission rarely comes from outside us What it truly means to reclaim your narrative without burning everything down How to move with fear without letting it decide your future This is not an episode about perfection, productivity, or dramatic change. It’s about honesty. Alignment. Self‑permission. And remembering that you are not the supporting character—you are the author. 🎧 A grounded, affirming listen for anyone ready to live with more integrity, intention, and internal consent.

Speak Your Truth – Money Stress & Mental Health Money stress is one of the most common — and least openly discussed — pressures in our lives. In this episode of Speak Your Truth on Alive 90.5FM, host Pri Abayakoon is joined by trusted financial adviser Ashish (Ash) Thadani, Director of Investlink Group, for an honest and reassuring conversation about how finances affect our mental health. Together, they unpack why money stress impacts sleep, confidence and relationships, explore the most common worries faced by Australian families, and share gentle mindset shifts and practical tools to reduce anxiety and break avoidance cycles. This is not a “get rich quick” conversation. It’s a real, compassionate discussion designed to help listeners feel less alone, less ashamed, and more empowered — one small step at a time.  Real talk. Practical tools. No judgement.

When My Father Speaks His Truth – Lessons Without a Blackboard On this special episode of Speak Your Truth, I step out of the presenter’s chair and into something far more personal — a conversation with my  father. This is not an interview. It is a reflection on a life shaped by service, learning, and love. From a childhood guided by a principal father and a teacher mother, to a calling that led him into classrooms, curriculum writing, and education leadership both at home and abroad — including service in Seychelles and Botswana — this episode traces the journey of a man who believed deeply in the power of education to change lives. We hear stories of love and partnership through more than fifty years of marriage to his beloved Anula, the values that anchored their home, and the quiet lessons passed on to three children. Beyond titles and achievements, this conversation reveals a man who lived with integrity, faith, and an unwavering sense of responsibility to family, community, and humanity. As he reflects on retirement, legacy, and the principles that guided his life, this episode reminds us that the most powerful lessons are not always taught from a blackboard — they are lived, modelled, and passed on through generations. This is a story of purpose. A story of service. And a daughter honouring the truth of the man who shaped her world.