Yasser Zaki on hope, grit and disability advocacy

From homelessness to hope, from law school dropout to CEO of a purpose-driven disability services organisation, this is the extraordinary journey of Yasser Zaki, Global CEO of TLC Disability Services. In this powerful episode of Uncommon Ground, hosted by Professor Talal Yassine, Yasser opens up a…

Anthony Mundine on being original, outspoken and standing his ground

From Redfern ovals and Canterbury streets to world-title nights under bright lights, Anthony “Choc” Mundine has lived more than one lifetime in Australian sport. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Choc sits down with Talal to trace the full arc of his journey – from precocious footy kid and A…

Hugh Riminton on storytelling, turmoil and life on the frontline

In the latest episode of Uncommon Ground, Talal Yassine speaks with veteran journalist Hugh Riminton about a life spent reporting from the world’s flashpoints. Hugh reflects on his childhood in Sri Lanka and New Zealand, the unlikely path that led him into journalism, and the coup in Fiji that firs…

Nabil Hafza on business, belief and building with integrity

From humble beginnings in Western Sydney to leading one of Australia’s largest structural package firms, Nabil Hafza’s story is one of grit, sacrifice and long-term belief.   In this episode of Uncommon Ground, Nabil reflects on his upbringing, leaving school early to pursue a trade, starting Fut…

Billy Dib on boxing, cancer and a champion's mindset

World champion boxer and cancer survivor Billy Dib sits down with Talal to trace an extraordinary life. From a corner shop in Engadine and schoolyard racism to the bright lights of world titles, celebrity promoters, heartbreak, and healing. Billy shares how his father’s “kill them with kindness” ph…

Fatima Payman on representation, politics and fighting for justice

At just 27, Fatima Payman made history as the first hijab-wearing Muslim woman elected to the Australian Parliament. Her election was more than symbolic, it was a moment of visibility that resonated deeply across Australia, especially for young people who had never seen themselves represented in pu…

David Campbell on identity, fatherhood and breaking the chain

Season 2 of Uncommon Ground opens with David Campbell, one of Australia’s most versatile performers, an actor, singer, television presenter, and proud father. In this intimate conversation with Talal Yassine, David reflects on the complexities of identity, from a childhood raised by his grandmothe…

Stan Grant on truth, faith and finding hope in a fractured world

Journalist, author and academic Stan Grant joins Talal Yassine for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about identity, faith, and the cost of speaking out. From a childhood of poverty and constant movement across rural New South Wales, to interviewing world leaders and reporting from some …

Cameron Kerr on conservation, leadership and a life with animals

Cameron Kerr has spent 25 years at the helm of Australia’s Taronga Zoo, transforming it from a traditional attraction into a global conservation powerhouse. A zoologist and conservationist at heart, Cameron’s story begins in the rock pools of Collaroy and the paddocks of rural NSW, where a pet donk…

Catherine Harris on, family, fairness and 50 years of Harris Farm

Trailblazing business leader, arts patron and advocate for women in leadership, Catherine Harris joins Talal Yassine for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about business, family and purpose. From growing up as one of ten children in a loud, loving Italian–Irish household, to co-founding Harr…