#1 - Introduction: The Journey To Reconnect And Inspire Engaging Conversations | Inspiring Dialogue, Empowering Communities podcast

Engaging Conversations | Inspiring Dialogue, Empowering Communities

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We're trying something different this week: a full post-show breakdown of every episode in the latest season of Black Mirror! Ari Romero is joined by Tudum's Black Mirror expert, Keisha Hatchett, to give you all the nuance, the insider commentary, and the details you might have missed in this incredible new season. Plus commentary from creator & showrunner Charlie Brooker! SPOILER ALERT: We're talking about the new season in detail and revealing key plot points. If you haven't watched yet, and you don't want to know what happens, turn back now! You can watch all seven seasons of Black Mirror now in your personalized virtual theater . Follow Netflix Podcasts and read more about Black Mirror on Tudum.com .…

Engaging Conversations | Inspiring Dialogue, Empowering Communities «
#1 - Introduction: The Journey to Reconnect and Inspire

for ca. et år siden 6:06

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In the first episode of Engaging Conversations, host Leon Goltsman welcomes you to the weekly podcast that connects with the heart of our communities.

Through authentic and powerful dialogues, Leon shines a light on the people making a real difference—those unsung heroes who lead purposefully and inspire positive change. Hope in a world that often feels disconnected.

As the co-founder of Ecolibrium Headquarters, Leon begins with intriguing insights about Lake Macquarie, setting the tone for a series that celebrates both the beauty of our environment and the extraordinary individuals who shape it. Drawing on his 13 years as a Waverley Councillor, Leon shares the importance of accountability and how this podcast aims to deepen your understanding of our local area.

Each episode promises inspiring conversations with local leaders, volunteers, and experts dedicated to creating a better future. Whether you're passionate about community or the environment or simply looking to be inspired, Engaging Conversations is here to bring people together, one meaningful dialogue at a time.

Join us on this journey to reconnect, inspire, and be part of a supportive community committed to making a difference.

Support the show

Thank you for listening!

26 episoder

#1 - Introduction: The Journey to Reconnect and Inspire

published for ca. et år siden

Del

MP3•Episode hjem

Send us a text

In the first episode of Engaging Conversations, host Leon Goltsman welcomes you to the weekly podcast that connects with the heart of our communities.

Join us on this journey to reconnect, inspire, and be part of a supportive community committed to making a difference.

Support the show

Thank you for listening!

26 episoder

Alle episoder

1
#26 - Leading with Purpose: How to Attract, Engage, and Retain Talent in Business with Trudy MacDonald 43:48

for 11 dage siden43:48

43:48

Send us a text Transforming workplace culture isn't about quick fixes but fundamentally understanding what drives human performance. Trudy MacDonald, award-winning global keynote speaker and founder of Talent Code HR, brings over two decades of organisational psychology expertise to this illuminating conversation on building high-performance teams, particularly in regional areas. Trudy unveils the psychology behind what motivates young professionals in today's challenging economic landscape. She dismantles the false dichotomy between supportive leadership and accountability, revealing how the most engaging workplaces seamlessly blend both. "If we have high levels of empathy and support without accountability, we risk creating entitlement," she explains, offering instead a framework that balances psychological safety with clear expectations. For leaders struggling with talent retention, Trudy provides refreshingly practical guidance. Beyond competitive compensation (which "takes money off the table"), she emphasises creating workplaces where people feel genuinely valued while having opportunities to grow. Her innovative concept of "WOMBAT hunting"—identifying Waste of Money, Bandwidth, and Time—offers a transformative approach to productivity that both individuals and organisations can immediately implement. Drawing fascinating parallels between her competitive rowing career and business leadership, Trudy demonstrates how high-performance habits create the "recipe for success" in any domain. Her insights on upward mentoring, building resilience through change, and connecting personal values to the company mission provide a comprehensive blueprint for creating workplaces where everyone thrives. Whether leading a business, managing a diverse team, or seeking to elevate your professional impact, this conversation delivers actionable strategies that blend cutting-edge psychology with real-world experience. Connect with Trudy at talentcodeHR.com.au to continue your leadership journey. Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#25 - Service Above Self: A Legacy of Community Impact with Vincent De Luca OAM 39:28

for 20 dage siden39:28

39:28

Send us a text Vincent De Luca OAM doesn't just talk about community service—he embodies it. From starting advocacy work at just nine years old to becoming one of Australia's youngest Order of Australia Medal recipients, his journey reveals what happens when someone refuses to look away from society's most challenging issues. Growing up under the guidance of remarkable women activists, Vincent learned early that meaningful change requires courage and persistence. His grandmother (the first woman to surf at Dee Why Beach) and mother (a founding member of Mundaring Netball Association) showed him that service isn't something you choose—it's something you live. This foundation propelled him into decades of groundbreaking work in youth suicide prevention, drug reform, domestic violence advocacy, and disability inclusion, often before these issues received mainstream attention. When diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma during his first council campaign and given just six weeks to live, Vincent's response wasn't to retreat but to double down on service. Even from his hospital bed, he organised fundraisers for the cancer ward. This experience fueled his later advocacy with the Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation and Cure the Future Foundation, addressing critical funding gaps he witnessed firsthand as a patient. Vincent's story offers profound insights into authentic leadership and community building. He demonstrates how sports create belonging, how leveraging networks amplifies impact, and how systems often fail those designed to help. Most importantly, he reminds us that real change happens when ordinary people refuse to wait for permission to make a difference. Subscribe to hear more conversations that bridge divides, spotlight unsung heroes, and provide practical pathways to strengthen our communities from the ground up. Together, we can build the kind of world where everyone belongs. Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#24 - Words That Wound: How Everyday Language Shapes Gender Respect with Rachael Natoli 36:39

for 4 weeks siden36:39

36:39

Send us a text What we say reveals who we are—especially when we think no one's listening. Rachael Natoli, founder of Lokahi Foundation, brings raw honesty and practical wisdom to our conversation about the language that shapes attitudes toward women and ultimately fuels violence. As a mother raising twin boys and leading a foundation supporting abuse survivors, Rachel occupies a unique position at the intersection of personal experience and professional advocacy. We explore how casual phrases like "boys will be boys" create the foundation for disrespect that can escalate to abuse. Rachael shares a striking story about her son, who was raised in a home that was hyper-aware of language and who is still absorbed concerning attitudes from external influences. This reality check illustrates the powerful cultural forces working against families trying to raise respectful young men. The conversation takes us through the critical spaces where change must happen—from locker rooms where men speak freely when women aren't present to workplaces where young apprentices navigate established cultures to online spaces where algorithms can rapidly lead young men toward toxic content. Rachel offers practical strategies for men to challenge disrespect without confrontation and explains why male voices are essential in this movement. Perhaps most thought-provoking is Rachael's reframing of feminism—not as a radical position, but simply as the belief in gender equality. When even women hesitate to embrace this label, how can we build the unified approach needed to address a crisis where police respond to domestic violence every three minutes in NSW alone? Ready to move beyond awareness to meaningful action? Listen now to discover how everyday conversations and small acts of courage can help build communities where respect isn't optional—it's expected. Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#23 - How One Op Shop Gave Back $1 Million—and Changed Lives Forever with Theo Van Bezouwen 23:05

for 6 weeks siden23:05

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Send us a text The Hillview Op Shop demonstrates how a social enterprise can harness community spirit to create a remarkable impact by transforming donated goods into life-changing community initiatives. Manager Theo Van Bezouwen shares the inspiring evolution of what locals affectionately call "the David Jones of op shops" — a 2,000-square-metre operation that generated over $1 million for community projects in the past year alone. What began as one church member's vision in 2018 has grown into a bustling hub powered by more than 150 volunteers from diverse backgrounds. Throughout our conversation, Theo reveals how these volunteers — many arriving with their struggles, from health challenges to broken relationships — find healing and purpose through their service. "Some of them come here with problems," Theo explains, "but once they volunteer here for a while, those problems seem to disappear because they feel wanted, needed, respected and valued." The ripple effects of this community powerhouse extend far beyond its walls. University scholarships support students who are often the first in their families to pursue higher education. Mental health initiatives through the Avondale Community Counselling Centre provide accessible support for those in need. Emergency relief programs assist survivors of domestic violence and elder abuse with essential items and financial support. Behind each initiative lies the organization's guiding principle: "What's the loving thing to do?" Perhaps most moving are the stories of transformation — from the elderly shopper who visits weekly not just for bargains but for connection to the volunteer who received flowers during a mental health crisis and felt the embrace of her "Hillview family" when she needed it most. These moments reveal the true mission behind the merchandise: creating a community where everyone belongs. Ready to contribute to this powerful vision? Whether through donations, shopping, or volunteering, Theo's advice is simple: "Don't leave it forever. Go out and do it today." Connect with Hillview Op Shop at 0407 497 855 or theo@mdhs.com.au and discover how giving back might change your life. Follow Hillview Op Shop on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/people/Hillview-Op-Shop/61572862858370/ Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#22 - Beyond The Paycheck: How Hunter Adults Financial Collaborative Transforms Lives 29:33

for 7 weeks siden29:33

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Send us a text When someone finds meaningful employment, they gain more than a paycheck—they discover dignity, purpose, and the ability to contribute to their community. This transformative journey sits at the heart of Hunter Adults Financial Collaborative (HAFC), where Cherylin Beever and her team help refugees and disadvantaged individuals overcome the invisible barriers standing between them and financial independence. From the remarkable story of refugees establishing a successful commercial cleaning company to empowering women through tailored computer literacy programs, HAFC's approach recognises that employment support must go beyond traditional job placement. They address the practical challenges—like affording insurance for a business, navigating complex regulatory requirements, or rebuilding after setbacks—that often prevent talented, motivated people from securing stable work. What makes HAFC's approach particularly powerful is its holistic vision of success. They combine practical assistance (small loans, skills training, resume writing workshops) with emotional support and ongoing mentorship, ensuring that clients don't just find jobs but develop lasting financial resilience. Working alongside partners like Newcastle City Council, Lake Macquarie Council, and local businesses, this volunteer-driven charity maximises its impact through strategic collaboration. The cultural exchange through HAFC extends beyond employment, creating spaces where diverse communities connect through shared meals, celebration ceremonies, and mutual learning. Volunteers describe being profoundly moved by clients' stories of resilience, while clients express heartfelt gratitude for support that acknowledges their unique needs and circumstances. For those interested in making a difference, HAFC welcomes volunteers and business partnerships that can help create employment pathways. Their story reminds us that when we remove barriers to participation, everyone benefits—individuals gain independence, businesses acquire dedicated workers, and communities grow stronger through increased diversity and contribution. Visit www.hunteradultsfc.org.au to learn how you can support their vital work. Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#21 - Empowering Communities through Ethical Investment with Niaz Cannoth 31:09

for 8 weeks siden31:09

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Send us a text Step into the world of ethical finance with our guest, Niaz Cannoth, whose remarkable journey reflects how financial investments can spark real change in communities. From his beginnings in Australia to becoming a leader in NDIS accommodation partnerships, Niaz demonstrates that success in finance goes beyond numbers. It's about uplifting those around us. He shares powerful stories of first-home buyers overcoming barriers, illustrating how tailored financial solutions create opportunities where none seemed possible. Niaz's commitment to ethical investments shines through as he advocates for transparent and responsible real estate strategies. He believes in building an ecosystem where everyone, from investors to support providers, collaborates to enhance community well-being. Niaz's leadership style, grounded in trust and integrity, highlights the importance of engaging with others to achieve mutual goals. This episode is a call to rethink our perceptions of finance and recognise that every investment can be an opportunity for social impact. Join us as we explore critical themes of leadership, community engagement, and ethical practices in finance. Let's work towards a future where we all flourish together—every conversation matters, and so does every connection we make. Remember to subscribe, share, and inspire others with these insights! Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#20 - From Bondi to the World Embracing Ocean Conservation with Anita Kolni 32:52

for 11 weeks siden32:52

32:52

Send us a text What drives someone to transform a personal passion into a movement with global impact? Join us as Anita Kolni, the visionary founder of the Ocean Lovers Festival, reveals how her commitment to ocean conservation inspired the creation of a vibrant festival that captivates and educates. Anita's story is a testament to how an individual's love for the ocean can blossom into a platform merging ideas, art, music, and tangible actions to combat climate anxiety, particularly among younger generations. Discover how, by partnering with universities, environmental organisations, and well-known figures, Anita has crafted a community that celebrates the ocean and champions its conservation. Navigating the complexities of funding and engaging a young audience hasn't been without challenges, but the Ocean Lovers Festival has seen significant breakthroughs. Anita shares insights on how the festival has successfully shifted from sponsorship reliance to attracting support from companies with strong environmental goals. Educational initiatives like Fish Tank, Literati, and the Ocean Smart Schools program are pivotal in inspiring future ocean advocates. Through initiatives like the Sea Science Student Expo, young people gain exposure to diverse career opportunities while facilitating a deeper connection with the environment. Anita's vision extends beyond the festival's immediate impact, aiming for a future where humans reconnect with nature and commit to sustainable actions. With an impressive reach—40,000 attendees in Bondi and a media footprint of 34 million—the festival has a profound influence, inspiring meaningful change in the lives of its participants. As the festival prepares to expand across Sydney in March 2025, we invite you to explore the myriad of engaging activities available, from talks hosted by ABC Radio National to insightful episodes of the Ocean Ideas podcast series. Be part of this collective effort to champion ocean conservation and make a lasting difference. For More Info, visit www.oceanloversfestival.com Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#19 - From Vision to Reality: Inspiring Global Change with Julian (Jolly) Day 34:06

for 12 weeks siden34:06

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Send us a text Discover the incredible journey of Julian (Jolly) Day, the visionary behind the Consensus Awards, as he shares his insights into innovation. These awards have spotlighted transformative technologies with a unique blend of rigour and support for over two decades. Join us as Julian recounts his path from the UK computer scene to shaping Australia's tech landscape, armed with experiences from the British and Australian Computer Societies and his editorial role at Software Magazine. You'll learn how the Consensus Awards have become a hallmark for identifying innovations with remarkable global potential and performance. Explore how the Consensus Awards contribute to Australia's innovation-driven economic growth, offering entrants detailed feedback and unparalleled guidance. Julian discusses how winning this prestigious award can significantly enhance a company's credibility and attract investors, opening doors to global expansion. Hear about groundbreaking innovations like ARRI Water's stormwater filtration technology and a novel guttering system from Western Sydney, which exemplify the transformative impact and marketplace validation that these awards facilitate. Engage with stories of innovation from Australia and New Zealand, highlighted by endorsements from influential figures such as Malcolm Turnbull. From AI and machine learning to niche projects like turning deserts into fertile land, these narratives showcase the iterative process of innovation and encourage a vibrant community of creative thinkers. We invite you to reflect on how you can contribute to meaningful change within your community, drawing inspiration from the pioneers redefining human connection and challenging traditional boundaries. Join us for more extraordinary journeys that continue to inspire and empower. Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#18 - Uniting for Melanoma Awareness Through Small Actions with Claudia Tolhurst 19:41

for 13 weeks siden19:41

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Send us a text Claudia Tolhurst's journey from melanoma survivor to passionate advocate with the Hunter Melanoma Foundation is an inspiring tale of resilience and purpose. Claudia takes us through her personal story and highlights the urgency of raising awareness about this preventable disease. This episode brings to light Bec's heartwarming success story—a testament to the power of early detection after being motivated by a patient story at a fundraising event. We navigate the landscape of skin checks, stressing the importance of regular monitoring through general practitioners, specialized skin clinics, and dermatologists. Claudia offers practical advice to combat the lengthy waiting times for appointments, urging timely actions through a GP when concerns arise. Scott Polglase's legacy lives on through the Hunter Melanoma Foundation's impactful Five Cent campaign, which has amassed over $80,000 in support of melanoma awareness and prevention. His wife, Kiralee, continues to champion this cause, recently trekking to Mount Everest to raise funds. We outline the foundation's ambitious goals for the next five years, emphasizing initiatives like the Spot Check campaign and education sessions aimed at high-risk groups. Through this episode, we reflect on the powerful combination of small actions and community support, and express our deep gratitude to listeners for helping to spread the crucial message that melanoma is both preventable and treatable when caught early. Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#17 - Empowering Hearts: Astrid Hocking’s Impactful Journey in Child Protection and Community Building 31:36

for 14 weeks siden31:36

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Send us a text Astrid Hocking, the inspirational powerhouse of the not-for-profit world, shares her incredible journey and insights from two decades of empowering vulnerable children. Astrid has become a beacon of hope for local and international communities through her dynamic leadership at Hearts and Hands. Her tireless advocacy, through initiatives like the Umbrella Hearts campaign, strives to break cycles of child abuse. At the same time, her commitment to the Butterfly Hearts program uplifts those with mobility challenges. Astrid's collaborative work with orphanages in the Philippines, offering trauma-informed training for caregivers, paints a picture of compassion in action. Our conversation unfolds the transformative power of Hearts Enhanced, an organisation devoted to empowering communities and protecting children. Astrid's work in the Philippines, helping 33 communities transition from living on dump sites to learning sustainable livelihood skills, is a testament to her impact. The Umbrella Ribbon campaign further underscores the importance of child protection awareness. Drawing from her experiences as a foster parent to nearly 90 children, Astrid shares the challenges and triumphs of fostering, emphasizing the necessity of unconditional love and nurturing environments. Looking to the future, Astrid envisions expanding the reach of Hearts and Hands through initiatives like the Orange Ride and Camp Teddy, which aim to spread child protection awareness. We delve into the importance of community involvement and how collective efforts can drive positive change. Astrid's journey from saving Hearts and Hands from closure to building a supportive community of like-minded individuals exemplifies the power of collaboration. We invite you to support initiatives like the Small Steps for Hannah event, underscoring our vital role in fostering stronger, kinder communities. Hearts and Hands www.heartsandhands.net.au --- HANNAH'S STORY www.smallsteps4hannah.com These sessions aim to create more awareness and empower members of the community about the early warning signs of coercive control and the tragic but inspirational story of Hannah Clarke, her three children and her family. Presented by Michael Jeh, DV Prevention Educator Wallsend Diggers Friday 31 January 2025 10:00 AM - 11:50 AM 5 Tyrrell Street, Wallsend NSW 2287 https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1335736?qr=true&qr=true SURVIVORS R US Fri 31 Jan 2025 1:30 PM - 3:25 PM 57 Pendlebury Rd, Cardiff NSW 2285 https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1335751?qr=true&qr=true TORONTO WORKERS CLUB Fri 31 Jan 2025 6:00 PM - 7:55 PM James St, Toronto NSW 2283 https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1335781?qr=true&qr=true Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#16 - Nourishing Communities: The Transformative Journey of Our Big Kitchen (OBK) with Rabbi Dr Dovid Slavin 20:17

for 15 weeks siden20:17

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Send us a text Rabbi Dr. Dovid Slavin and his wife, Laya, transformed a simple idea into a heartwarming reality that feeds thousands. From Leah's journey from hairdresser to a beacon of hope for women undergoing chemotherapy to the establishment of Our Big Kitchen (OBK) in Bondi, Sydney, this episode captures their incredible story. Discover how OBK evolved into a non-denominational industrial kitchen, making over 250,000 meals yearly to combat food waste and hunger in Australia. This isn't just about meals; it's about connecting people and creating a community where no one feels alone, especially during festive seasons. In a conversation with Rabbi Slavin from OBK, we explore the future ambitions for this impactful initiative and discuss ways listeners can be part of this mission across Australia. Kindness is a language everyone understands, and by building a model of community support, we can counter negative narratives and foster meaningful connections. Whether using your unique talents or taking small steps in your community, your actions can make a significant difference. Stay tuned for a sneak peek into our upcoming chat with Astrid Hocking from Hearts and Hands, who dedicates her life to supporting vulnerable children and communities. OBK Website: https://www.obk.org.au/ Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#15 - A Festive Wrap-Up and a Look Ahead to 2025 4:24

for 18 weeks siden4:24

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Send us a text Claudia Tolhurst returns to our spotlight with transformative insights into melanoma prevention, shedding light on how early detection can lead to life-saving recoveries. Her expertise has not only sparked widespread conversation but is instrumental in changing lives, proving that knowledge truly is power. Meanwhile, we're excited to introduce Dovid Slavin, the visionary behind Our Big Kitchen (OBK), who will inspire you with stories of community spirit and resilience. Transforming surplus food into over 250,000 meals for those in need, OBK exemplifies how collective efforts can make a substantial impact. As we conclude this remarkable year, we are grateful to each listener who has journeyed with us through thought-provoking discussions and uplifting narratives. Reflecting on the impactful stories shared in 2024, on behalf of our team, I am genuinely excited for what's to come in 2025, where we aim to spotlight even more trailblazers driving positive change. Join us as we continue to build connections, share wisdom, and celebrate the extraordinary efforts of those committed to making a difference. Until then, may this festive season bring you joy, reflection, and a renewed spirit for the year ahead. Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#14 - Melanoma Awareness: Understanding and Protecting Your Skin with Claudia Tolhurst 33:05

for 19 weeks siden33:05

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Send us a text Uncover the alarming truth behind melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, in our compelling conversation with Claudia Tolhurst, Executive Officer at the Hunter Melanoma Foundation. Join us as we shine a light on why melanoma is referred to as Australia's "national cancer" and explore the foundation's dedicated mission to combat this aggressive disease. Claudia shares eye-opening statistics and invaluable insights into the importance of early detection and the role of sun-safe practices in reducing skin cancer fatalities. Equip yourself with essential sun protection knowledge in this episode that could save lives, especially in climates as harsh as Australia’s. Claudia and I discuss practical sun safety measures, such as UPF 50+ clothing, sunscreen, and the crucial need for education, particularly for children. Learn about the impactful community initiatives from the Hunter Melanoma Foundation, including the upcoming Spot Check campaign offering free skin checks, and discover how you can contribute to the fight against melanoma. In a world where awareness is key, discover a wealth of educational programs designed to promote skin health and melanoma awareness. We explore resources like the SWAP program for outdoor workers and the Melanoma and Skin Cancer Advocacy Network's offerings. Personal stories bring the discussion to life, underscoring the message to "check and protect your skin." Tune in for practical tips, such as using photographs to monitor suspicious skin changes, and be inspired to raise awareness in your community. Claudia and her team are here to guide you through understanding and prioritising your skin health, ensuring that melanoma prevention is a part of everyday life. You can get in contact with the Hunter Melanoma Foundation by phone on: 02 4985 0103 by emailing: info@hmf.org.au . Alternatively visit the website https://hmf.org.au/ for more info. Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#13 - The Automation Advantage: Reclaiming Time and Redefining Work with Brad Woollett 25:39

for 20 weeks siden25:39

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Send us a text Ever wondered how artificial intelligence can transform your workplace and give you back precious time? Join us as we chat with Brad Woollett, CEO of Definiti, on Newcastle’s sunny Honeysuckle foreshore. Brad reveals how Definiti is revolutionising work with automation, introducing digital co-workers like Vinnie—AI-powered helpers designed to boost business efficiency, especially during crunch times. Amid the hum of lawnmowers, blowers, whipper-snippers and the warmth of coastal breezes, we delve into AI’s incredible potential, from simplifying everyday tasks to driving groundbreaking innovations. Brad’s passion for delivering value shines through, particularly in partnerships with large enterprises. He envisions a future where data becomes a powerful asset, and predictive maintenance is within reach for small businesses. His vision? A world where technology doesn’t replace us—it empowers us. Stay curious and inspired as we explore how awareness and technology can transform challenges into opportunities and redefine how we work and live. Support the show Thank you for listening!…

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#12 - Empowering Voices: Wendi's Journey from Banking to Disability Advocacy 30:24

for 22 weeks siden30:24