So...Podcast John Mckenna
By So... John Mckenna Podcast
So… is a podcast that’s about…
Conversations with everyday people. Social workers and CEOs. Activists and politicians. Artists and accountants. Everyone with a story to tell.
Diversity.
Learning more about who’s in our community, what they do, and why they do it.
Asking unique questions.
Questions that are non-judgmental but probing. Getting to the heart of the matter.
Focusing on individuals.
Giving them a platform to pitch their initiatives for helping people, their organisation, or even the planet.
Not being afraid.
Allowing people to tell their story without reservation. Embracing controversial topics from all sides of the equation.
Conversations with everyday people. Social workers and CEOs. Activists and politicians. Artists and accountants. Everyone with a story to tell.
Diversity.
Learning more about who’s in our community, what they do, and why they do it.
Asking unique questions.
Questions that are non-judgmental but probing. Getting to the heart of the matter.
Focusing on individuals.
Giving them a platform to pitch their initiatives for helping people, their organisation, or even the planet.
Not being afraid.
Allowing people to tell their story without reservation. Embracing controversial topics from all sides of the equation.
So...Podcast John MckennaJun 03, 2021
00:00
25:16
Hey Max, what's it like being Grace Tame's partner?
Max Heerey didn’t know what he was getting into when he invited a fellow Hobart (Aust) runner out for a jog late in 2020.
As it turned out, he had just organised a date with Grace Tame, who was named Australian of the Year 2021 just a couple of months later.
In this So...podcast episode, Max talks publicly for the first time about his relationship with Grace, an advocate for survivors of sexual assault, particularly those who were abused in institutional settings.
From the age of 15, Grace was groomed and raped by her maths teacher, who was later jailed for his crimes.
Grace also fought and won for the reform of laws in Tasmania – Australia’s island state - that gagged survivors from speaking publicly and identifying themselves.
Max has been by her side the whole time, despite their relationship being so new when she received the award.
He reveals how he copes with hearing Grace discuss the abuse she suffered, his pride when she won the award, and how he prefers to keep a low profile.
This couple bounce off each other in this relaxed – and often funny - conversation that even includes a discussion about Grace’s tasty banana bread.
This episode contains references to grooming, sexual abuse, and mental health issues. If you feel that you need any support, please use one of the below resources.
Jun 03, 202125:16
Brett Ashby - a Rolling & Flowing Contemporary Artist
Melbourne based public, performance and contemporary artist, Brett Ashby talks to John McKenna on ‘So…’ podcast about flowing, ‘rolling’, and growth through art, creation, and connection.
In his 15-year journey as both a local and international artist, Ashby opens up about how his artistic practice and connections helped him to discover his own story and healing.
Using his childhood love of surfing and skating in a flow-state artistic process he calls ‘rolling’, Ashby explores how art can be created through interpreting energy and vibrations.
Maybe that sounds a bit different – but that’s his story, and Ashby’s art has become an energetic therapy and avenue to connect with others.
In a conversation with John that rolls and flows like Ashby’s art, they discuss his unique skateboard-riding-portrait-painting-process, and how connecting with young people through public art helped him to learn and rediscover his own journey, as well as produce public artworks that made a positive contribution to community.
Stay connected with Brett on Instagram
May 13, 202121:16
How to Lose Friends & Influence White People
Why are all television newsreaders blonde?
This is something Antoinette asked herself when she was at the gym almost 4 years ago and confronted with a sea of blonde newsreaders across every news show that was being broadcast. She looked from the TV to the people in the gym and saw people of all cultural backgrounds. She saw that the media was failing to represent Australia’s diverse community.
In that moment, Antoinette conceived the idea of Media Diversity Australia, a not-for-profit that advocates for more meaningful diversity within Australian media.
Antoinette Lattouf is a Senior Journalist at Network 10, the Co-Founder/Director of Media Diversity Australia and is in the process of adding author to the list. She has built a successful career in Australian media, and as a woman of colour, has experienced firsthand the need for more cultural diversity within the industry.
‘We pat ourselves on the back for being a multicultural country, but we’re only multicultural to a certain point. There are certain institutions where that diversity isn’t allowed to prosper.’ Antoinette Lattouf
She believes that the Australian media needs to do more work to reflect its audience and is a vocal advocate for increased diverse cultural representation.
An exciting element of her advocacy is the upcoming release of her book How to Lose Friends and Influence White People. Antoinette’s ‘cheeky’ take on a book that has been read by generations of people is set to upheave some cultural tension, raise more than a few eyebrows, and make lots of people uncomfortable.
And why? Because it’s important to provide a guide on how to navigate this complicated conversation, to challenge the status quo, and to provide the voice the Australian media has neglected.
Is Antoinette scared of the potential backlash? Nope. She’s charging forward, brave and ready. She says, ‘If I don’t push myself out of my comfort zone, how can I ask others to do the same?’.
Mar 11, 202122:52
The Power of Representation and Role Modelling
International students in the Australian news and media often carry the negative connotations of being "foreign", "problems" that are "exploited".
Belle Lim is here to challenge that stereotype.
Coming from Malaysia at the age of 17, Belle completed a Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences with honours as the Gold Medallist, received the prestigious Victorian Premier Award for International Students of the Year in 2019, and is currently pursuing a PhD degree in cancer genetics. Driven by her personal experience, Belle is also a passionate advocate for international students and women of colour. She is the founder of Future Female conference in Victoria and the national president of Council of International Students Australia.
Belle joined the So…Podcast to explore her journey so far. From a shy, reserved girl whose culture praised her for being obedient, to a young woman confident in her quest to empower other women from culturally diverse backgrounds. Belle shared the inner thoughts, confusion and breakthroughs that she had throughout this journey of discovering her real abilities, whilst also unpacking the cultural transition that international students are confronted with and how the burden of assimilating is placed solely on international students.
Belle strongly believes in the power of representation and role modelling to expand what young people from diverse cultural backgrounds expect from themselves. On tips to ambitious women, she emphasized on the power of knowing your values and having the right attitude - adversities and challenges will come, but it is how you approach them that will ultimately define your journey.
Feb 09, 202120:48
Women's Experiences of Violence Across the Lifespan
CONTENT WARNING: Violence against women and abuse.
Violence against women is a major global public health problem. In Australia, one in six women have experienced violence from an intimate partner and more than one woman a week dies as a result of violence against women.
PhD candidate Amy Warren and John discuss how this important issue is being addressed in Australia, around the world and what we can do to further these efforts. They look at the impact of fear and stigma, culture, and disability on experiences of abuse.
Amy's PhD project, 'Violence against women across the lifespan', explores violence against women across three categories of abuse: child abuse, domestic/family violence, and elder abuse.
The project also explores how we can better support women whose experiences don't fit into any of these categories, and how anyone can be a victim/survivor of violence.
This episode may cover sensitive or triggering topics. If you feel that you need any support please use one of the below resources.
www.lifeline.org.au/
www.1800respect.org.au/
To keep up with Amy's research, you can follow The WEVAL Project on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Violence against women is a major global public health problem. In Australia, one in six women have experienced violence from an intimate partner and more than one woman a week dies as a result of violence against women.
PhD candidate Amy Warren and John discuss how this important issue is being addressed in Australia, around the world and what we can do to further these efforts. They look at the impact of fear and stigma, culture, and disability on experiences of abuse.
Amy's PhD project, 'Violence against women across the lifespan', explores violence against women across three categories of abuse: child abuse, domestic/family violence, and elder abuse.
The project also explores how we can better support women whose experiences don't fit into any of these categories, and how anyone can be a victim/survivor of violence.
This episode may cover sensitive or triggering topics. If you feel that you need any support please use one of the below resources.
www.lifeline.org.au/
www.1800respect.org.au/
To keep up with Amy's research, you can follow The WEVAL Project on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Jan 27, 202120:22
Disability Advocacy & Counselling, Working together
In Australia we live in a world of 'Royal Commissions'. Currently, the conversations are around the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (known as the Disability Royal Commission). To dive into this further, So...Podcast is joined by two prominent people in the disability advocacy and trauma-informed counselling space.
Mary Mallet is the CEO of the Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA), which is the peak body for independent disability advocacy in Australia.
Dr Cathy Kezelman AM is the President of Blue Knot Foundation which is the National Centre of Excellence for Complex Trauma. Blue Knot operates the National Counselling and Referral Service for people with disability who have experienced violence, abuse, neglect or exploitation.
The Disability Royal Commission emerged in response to the years of advocacy and self-advocacy work that aimed to create a platform where people could share their stories and have them heard.
It's not surprising that a Royal Commission of this nature can cause many different reactions. Some people may feel empowered to make a submission, some may feel retraumatised as the Royal Commission opens up old wounds, and some may just feel confused and unsure of how to engage with it.
Mary Mallet and Dr Cathy Kezelman represent two modes of support that currently exist for people who are affected by the Disability Royal Commission: advocacy and counselling.
Mary says that "advocacy is doing the 'doing' work". It's supporting people with practical actions such as making a submission, or a phone call, or reading through a document.
Counselling offers support of a different kind, the emotional.
So how do you know what is right for you?
There is no one answer. Trauma can present itself in many different ways, and affects each person differently. What is important to know is that each service exists to understand an individual's complex needs and support them as best they can.
It's about providing trust, understanding and somebody to walk alongside you.
This episode may cover sensitive or triggering topics. If you feel that you need any support please use one of the below resources.
www.blueknot.org.au/
www.lifeline.org.au/
www.beyondblue.org.au/
Mary Mallet is the CEO of the Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA), which is the peak body for independent disability advocacy in Australia.
Dr Cathy Kezelman AM is the President of Blue Knot Foundation which is the National Centre of Excellence for Complex Trauma. Blue Knot operates the National Counselling and Referral Service for people with disability who have experienced violence, abuse, neglect or exploitation.
The Disability Royal Commission emerged in response to the years of advocacy and self-advocacy work that aimed to create a platform where people could share their stories and have them heard.
It's not surprising that a Royal Commission of this nature can cause many different reactions. Some people may feel empowered to make a submission, some may feel retraumatised as the Royal Commission opens up old wounds, and some may just feel confused and unsure of how to engage with it.
Mary Mallet and Dr Cathy Kezelman represent two modes of support that currently exist for people who are affected by the Disability Royal Commission: advocacy and counselling.
Mary says that "advocacy is doing the 'doing' work". It's supporting people with practical actions such as making a submission, or a phone call, or reading through a document.
Counselling offers support of a different kind, the emotional.
So how do you know what is right for you?
There is no one answer. Trauma can present itself in many different ways, and affects each person differently. What is important to know is that each service exists to understand an individual's complex needs and support them as best they can.
It's about providing trust, understanding and somebody to walk alongside you.
This episode may cover sensitive or triggering topics. If you feel that you need any support please use one of the below resources.
www.blueknot.org.au/
www.lifeline.org.au/
www.beyondblue.org.au/
Dec 01, 202030:29
Shedding leaf light with Trace Balla
Children's author and illustrator Trace Balla has always had a great fascination with trees and nature.
Growing up, if she felt lonely she found companionship and comfort in the tree that grew in her garden. She called this her 'tree friend'.
Trees, Trace says, have seen a lot and felt a lot. They carry a natural wisdom that is difficult for humans to tap into. Trace overcomes this by 'tree connecting', using a physical experience such as a hug to surrender her body into trees and let them hold her and her emotions.
This relationship with trees has informed her work as an author and illustrator. Her children's book Rivertime showcases the beautiful wisdom of the natural Australian landscape that Trace is now surrounded by in her home country town in - Dja Dja Wurrung Country - Southern Australia.
Trace's love for trees has gifted her with friendships, lessons and support that are completely unique, shedding 'leaf light' upon all aspects of her life and walking alongside her as she experiences the world.
Growing up, if she felt lonely she found companionship and comfort in the tree that grew in her garden. She called this her 'tree friend'.
Trees, Trace says, have seen a lot and felt a lot. They carry a natural wisdom that is difficult for humans to tap into. Trace overcomes this by 'tree connecting', using a physical experience such as a hug to surrender her body into trees and let them hold her and her emotions.
This relationship with trees has informed her work as an author and illustrator. Her children's book Rivertime showcases the beautiful wisdom of the natural Australian landscape that Trace is now surrounded by in her home country town in - Dja Dja Wurrung Country - Southern Australia.
Trace's love for trees has gifted her with friendships, lessons and support that are completely unique, shedding 'leaf light' upon all aspects of her life and walking alongside her as she experiences the world.
Nov 23, 202021:37
The strength in being vulnerable - Rugare Gomo
In Australia we rely on the Western media to hear about what's happening across the globe. It shows us filtered versions of important world events and the voices of people these news stories are about can often be missed.
Rugare Gomo, founder of the Gomo Foundation, joins the So...Podcast to bring some of these voices to listeners everywhere.
Rugare grew up in Zimbabwe, in a context where white people were considered better than black people, where being gay could get you put in jail and where men were considered more valuable than women. Even though the women in his life were smart, entrepreneurial and driven, they were deprived of opportunity.
He came to Australia when he was 16 with just a suitcase and the dream of having an education he would never have in his home country.
Rugare lets us in on the ups and downs of his journey, from raising over $100,000 for his university education, to becoming a lawyer, to feeling alone and unhappy and eventually founding the Gomo Foundation.
He started this not-for-profit to unleash the potential of girls in Africa through education. It has now grown into an organisation that gives young girls a voice and empowers them to create opportunity for themselves.
His story is a unique one, that has seen many different sides of the world and significant tests and challenges. But, through the power in vulnerability, Rugare was able to accomplish everything he had ever wanted and more.
Rugare Gomo, founder of the Gomo Foundation, joins the So...Podcast to bring some of these voices to listeners everywhere.
Rugare grew up in Zimbabwe, in a context where white people were considered better than black people, where being gay could get you put in jail and where men were considered more valuable than women. Even though the women in his life were smart, entrepreneurial and driven, they were deprived of opportunity.
He came to Australia when he was 16 with just a suitcase and the dream of having an education he would never have in his home country.
Rugare lets us in on the ups and downs of his journey, from raising over $100,000 for his university education, to becoming a lawyer, to feeling alone and unhappy and eventually founding the Gomo Foundation.
He started this not-for-profit to unleash the potential of girls in Africa through education. It has now grown into an organisation that gives young girls a voice and empowers them to create opportunity for themselves.
His story is a unique one, that has seen many different sides of the world and significant tests and challenges. But, through the power in vulnerability, Rugare was able to accomplish everything he had ever wanted and more.
Oct 16, 202026:60
SHHHH! Can we talk for a moment about turning down the noise?
It may sound like a contradiction, to have a chat about being more quiet. But that's exactly what John does with Christine Jackman in this podcast.
Christine's 20-year career as a journalist took her to New York as a foreign correspondent and Canberra, where she worked in Australia's National Press Gallery, covering federal politics. Then she was headhunted to corporate communications where she gave advice to some of Australia's top business and political leaders.
Along the way, her life got very noisy and her health and family relationships suffered. So she quit her job and went on a journey to find out what was creating the "noise" in her life, what it was doing to her (according to scientific and medical research) and whether there were ways to reduce the unhealthy impacts of living in a noisy modern world.
John and Christine chat about what she discovered: about the noise in our heads, as well as the noise around us; the distraction of the news and social media; the healing power of Nature and meditation; and the challenges of going on a 10-day silent retreat.
Christine also gives some tips about how to incorporate more quiet places and practices into your own life.
Her book Turning Down the Noise was published in Australia in September 2020 by Murdoch Books, and will be released in the United Kingdom in early 2021
Christine's 20-year career as a journalist took her to New York as a foreign correspondent and Canberra, where she worked in Australia's National Press Gallery, covering federal politics. Then she was headhunted to corporate communications where she gave advice to some of Australia's top business and political leaders.
Along the way, her life got very noisy and her health and family relationships suffered. So she quit her job and went on a journey to find out what was creating the "noise" in her life, what it was doing to her (according to scientific and medical research) and whether there were ways to reduce the unhealthy impacts of living in a noisy modern world.
John and Christine chat about what she discovered: about the noise in our heads, as well as the noise around us; the distraction of the news and social media; the healing power of Nature and meditation; and the challenges of going on a 10-day silent retreat.
Christine also gives some tips about how to incorporate more quiet places and practices into your own life.
Her book Turning Down the Noise was published in Australia in September 2020 by Murdoch Books, and will be released in the United Kingdom in early 2021
Oct 09, 202040:22
Danielle Matthews "How do I tell stories?...I sing"
The creative behind I've Never BIN to Me (YouTube) joins the So...Podcast to talk about the power of music.
After taking inspiration from the viral Facebook page 'Bin Isolation Outing', which encouraged individuals in lockdown to fancy dress while taking the bin out, Danielle Matthews decided to put her spin on 'dressing up' to take the bin out.
She wrote a parody of I've Never Been to Me by Charlene, exploring what it felt like to be in lockdown in Victoria.
After 48 hours her video had 1 thousand views. Danielle realised that her parody did more than make people laugh, it connected with other people who have also been struggling in lockdown.
And Danielle is not only an internet sensation. She is a 'born singer', working professional for over 20 years. She says that she grew up singing, and there was never a question of what path she would follow.
This path has taken her around the world, seeing incredible things and meeting incredible people, eventually bringing her back to Melbourne where she is the Co-Artistic Director of the Choir of Hard Knocks.
This Choir displays the power and beauty of music. A choir for people who experience all kinds of disadvantage, it has shown Danielle that no matter what people go through, the music never leaves and it can always bring back joy.
Danielle brings her warmth and vibrant love for music to the So...Podcast... if you listen closely there might even be a surprise tune!
After taking inspiration from the viral Facebook page 'Bin Isolation Outing', which encouraged individuals in lockdown to fancy dress while taking the bin out, Danielle Matthews decided to put her spin on 'dressing up' to take the bin out.
She wrote a parody of I've Never Been to Me by Charlene, exploring what it felt like to be in lockdown in Victoria.
After 48 hours her video had 1 thousand views. Danielle realised that her parody did more than make people laugh, it connected with other people who have also been struggling in lockdown.
And Danielle is not only an internet sensation. She is a 'born singer', working professional for over 20 years. She says that she grew up singing, and there was never a question of what path she would follow.
This path has taken her around the world, seeing incredible things and meeting incredible people, eventually bringing her back to Melbourne where she is the Co-Artistic Director of the Choir of Hard Knocks.
This Choir displays the power and beauty of music. A choir for people who experience all kinds of disadvantage, it has shown Danielle that no matter what people go through, the music never leaves and it can always bring back joy.
Danielle brings her warmth and vibrant love for music to the So...Podcast... if you listen closely there might even be a surprise tune!
Oct 08, 202021:36
Drawing the talk with Simon Kneebone
In this episode John chats with Simon Kneebone - a cartoonist who's work has been featured in a number of places, including many social and community organisations. Simon had his start as a cartoonist by simply doodling and drawing pictures during his time at university. Someone he had studied with remembered his drawings, and offered him a job. This led to his current career in illustration.
Find out exactly what a cartoon or an illustration is, and what its purpose should be. Creating a cartoon is about conveying a message, sometimes quite complex, in a very short time. We discover listening is an important ingredient in getting it right when creating a cartoon for someone else.
Simon tells us the cartoonist must consider the idea being communicated, political correctness, and who the intended recipient of the message is, to help craft the cartoon.
Finally, what is the future of cartooning in the media and video age?
A key takeaway - you don't have to be a great drawer to be cartoonist.
Find out exactly what a cartoon or an illustration is, and what its purpose should be. Creating a cartoon is about conveying a message, sometimes quite complex, in a very short time. We discover listening is an important ingredient in getting it right when creating a cartoon for someone else.
Simon tells us the cartoonist must consider the idea being communicated, political correctness, and who the intended recipient of the message is, to help craft the cartoon.
Finally, what is the future of cartooning in the media and video age?
A key takeaway - you don't have to be a great drawer to be cartoonist.
Oct 03, 202023:06
Listening or pretending to?
John and Oscar Trimboli, who is what some might call a professional listener, discuss the finer points of listening.
Oscar is an expert in communication whose goal is to create 100 million deep listeners worldwide. He highlights how listening starts with you, and not with the speaker.
Discover how you can listen better, how you can prepare yourself to listen, even when you don't feel like it, and what the purpose of listening really is.
They also delve into the difference in speech between cultures, listening and communication within families, and much more.
Find a number of resources at Oscars website - www.oscartrimboli.com.
Oscar is an expert in communication whose goal is to create 100 million deep listeners worldwide. He highlights how listening starts with you, and not with the speaker.
Discover how you can listen better, how you can prepare yourself to listen, even when you don't feel like it, and what the purpose of listening really is.
They also delve into the difference in speech between cultures, listening and communication within families, and much more.
Find a number of resources at Oscars website - www.oscartrimboli.com.
Oct 03, 202031:12
Violence against women, walking without fear
Alix Sampson a young, bisexual and socially innovative woman from the inner north of Melbourne, Australia joins the So...Podcast to talk about her community connection project that (literally) walks the talk.
Brunswick Sole Mates, was an idea that Alix "birthed organically" in response to issues that had been challenging her local community.
She loves to walk around her neighbourhood, before work, after work, usually when the sun is coming up or going down.
But lately, Melbourne has felt unsafe for people walking alone, especially women.
Several violent attacks against women had made not only Alix, but many members of the community feel unsafe when going for walks.
For Alix, the answer was not to simply stay indoors. Nothing was going to stop her from doing what she wanted to do. So she took things into her own hands (or feet?) and created safety for herself and her community; a local walking group.
Brunswick Sole Mates has since flourished into a group that is almost 1000 members strong.
"All genders, faiths, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, identities, ages, levels of ability and fitness are welcome." Brunswick Sole Mates Facebook Group Description (Alix Sampson)
It's not only a group for the socially inclined, the Sole Mates also love to go on 'antisocial walks' where people can walk alongside each other and feel no pressure to talk with others.
It has become an inclusive space that fosters community connection and empowers personal autonomy. It allows for all members of the community to come together and feel safe, free to walk without fear.
Brunswick Sole Mates, was an idea that Alix "birthed organically" in response to issues that had been challenging her local community.
She loves to walk around her neighbourhood, before work, after work, usually when the sun is coming up or going down.
But lately, Melbourne has felt unsafe for people walking alone, especially women.
Several violent attacks against women had made not only Alix, but many members of the community feel unsafe when going for walks.
For Alix, the answer was not to simply stay indoors. Nothing was going to stop her from doing what she wanted to do. So she took things into her own hands (or feet?) and created safety for herself and her community; a local walking group.
Brunswick Sole Mates has since flourished into a group that is almost 1000 members strong.
"All genders, faiths, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, identities, ages, levels of ability and fitness are welcome." Brunswick Sole Mates Facebook Group Description (Alix Sampson)
It's not only a group for the socially inclined, the Sole Mates also love to go on 'antisocial walks' where people can walk alongside each other and feel no pressure to talk with others.
It has become an inclusive space that fosters community connection and empowers personal autonomy. It allows for all members of the community to come together and feel safe, free to walk without fear.
Sep 04, 202012:27
Take off your clothes, look at your skin
John Mckenna talks to Dr Edward Upjohn MB.BS MMed FACD FACMS, a dermatologist in Melbourne, Australia, about different types of skin cancers and treatments.
Dr Edward Upjohn talks about the three different types of skin cancers and how to potentially identify them:
· Melanoma
· Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC)
· Basel cell carcinoma (BCC)
Your General Practitioner (GP) is the best starting point if you notice something different on your skin. They use a device called a dermatoscope to examine skin spots and are trained in biopsy which means removing a sample of your skin to test, and if required your GP may refer you to a dermatologist.
A skin cancer known as a melanoma can look like a mole and can be serious. Talk to your GP if you notice a new spot on your skin or an existing spot that has changed in shape, colour or is feeling uncomfortable.
Non--melanoma cancers can cause soreness and can look like a pimple.
Dr Edward Upjohn spoke about advancements in treatments over the past 20 years, such as creams and new drugs.
Dr Edward Upjohn specialises in MOHs surgery, which is a type of surgery that can give immediate confirmation that all the skin cancer has been removed.
Normally it is a day procedure involving a local anaesthetic.
During this procedure a tissue sample is removed and then immediately checked in a laboratory so that the surgeon knows where the skin cancer is located and further tissue can then be removed if required, instead of waiting for test results which can take a number of days.
Dr Edward Upjohn quoted a well-known phrase - "early diagnosis can save lives" which he says is especially true for skin cancers. While it may be embarrassing to get undressed in front of your doctor, the skin cancer doesn't stop, so continuous skin checks with your GP is a must.
www.edwardupjohn.com/
Dr Edward Upjohn talks about the three different types of skin cancers and how to potentially identify them:
· Melanoma
· Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC)
· Basel cell carcinoma (BCC)
Your General Practitioner (GP) is the best starting point if you notice something different on your skin. They use a device called a dermatoscope to examine skin spots and are trained in biopsy which means removing a sample of your skin to test, and if required your GP may refer you to a dermatologist.
A skin cancer known as a melanoma can look like a mole and can be serious. Talk to your GP if you notice a new spot on your skin or an existing spot that has changed in shape, colour or is feeling uncomfortable.
Non--melanoma cancers can cause soreness and can look like a pimple.
Dr Edward Upjohn spoke about advancements in treatments over the past 20 years, such as creams and new drugs.
Dr Edward Upjohn specialises in MOHs surgery, which is a type of surgery that can give immediate confirmation that all the skin cancer has been removed.
Normally it is a day procedure involving a local anaesthetic.
During this procedure a tissue sample is removed and then immediately checked in a laboratory so that the surgeon knows where the skin cancer is located and further tissue can then be removed if required, instead of waiting for test results which can take a number of days.
Dr Edward Upjohn quoted a well-known phrase - "early diagnosis can save lives" which he says is especially true for skin cancers. While it may be embarrassing to get undressed in front of your doctor, the skin cancer doesn't stop, so continuous skin checks with your GP is a must.
www.edwardupjohn.com/
Aug 16, 202020:36
Reclaim, Reform, Restore
When you walk past hard rubbish on the street, what do you see?
Meg Renou doesn't just see a pile of junk, she sees inspiration. She describes herself as a bowerbird due to her love of collecting discarded objects and giving them a new and different life
John talks to Meg about her reclaimed, reformed and restored art business that she runs in Melbourne. A kitchen table project she started a few years ago has become a creative passion, an outlet for letting go.
Meg finds and reclaims objects that other people would consider junk, she reforms them into something different and restores life into it. From dragonflies made out of venetian blinds to mushrooms made out of teapot lids, for Meg the possibilities are endless.
'I want to keep its history and recognition of what it was while also showing how it has been transformed' - Meg
And it's not just about the objects, it's a form of meditation for Meg. When she uses her hands to create, her mind is able to switch off and just breathe for a moment.
She puts love and care into her pieces, her ideas and feelings to take a physical form allowing her to let go.
What is your outlet? How do you find time to breathe?
Meg Renou's Instagram: www.instagram.com/meg.renou/?hl=en
Meg Renou doesn't just see a pile of junk, she sees inspiration. She describes herself as a bowerbird due to her love of collecting discarded objects and giving them a new and different life
John talks to Meg about her reclaimed, reformed and restored art business that she runs in Melbourne. A kitchen table project she started a few years ago has become a creative passion, an outlet for letting go.
Meg finds and reclaims objects that other people would consider junk, she reforms them into something different and restores life into it. From dragonflies made out of venetian blinds to mushrooms made out of teapot lids, for Meg the possibilities are endless.
'I want to keep its history and recognition of what it was while also showing how it has been transformed' - Meg
And it's not just about the objects, it's a form of meditation for Meg. When she uses her hands to create, her mind is able to switch off and just breathe for a moment.
She puts love and care into her pieces, her ideas and feelings to take a physical form allowing her to let go.
What is your outlet? How do you find time to breathe?
Meg Renou's Instagram: www.instagram.com/meg.renou/?hl=en
Jul 16, 202012:32
It's Okay to Talk About Suicide
This episode covers a sensitive topic. Before you listen please be aware that we are discussing suicide, the impact of suicide and resources surrounding suicide prevention.
John talks with Shayne Connell, the CEO of LivingWorks.
LivingWorks is an organisation that has been running for over 40 years and is focussed on suicide prevention.
Shane believes in the principles of community development, the LivingWorks training model focusses on training people from within the communities they are working with and using co-design to design their modules.
This means that their work is directly tailored for the communities they are working with, allowing these groups to decide what is important for them.
At the heart of their work is empowering individuals to have choice over how and when they talk about suicide.
"Suicide is a human condition, anyone can fall into crisis and distress where suicide becomes an option" Shayne Connell
Suicide can effect the community in a multitude of ways, it is a silent killer that can impact anybody.
Because of this Shane believes that it is everyone's responsibility and opportunity to learn the skills to identify suicide and keep people safe.
A key takeaway message for me was that suicide prevention training is just as important (if not more) as basic First Aid training in keeping the community safe.
So it's great that LivingWorks is here to walk alongside us and educate the community on suicide prevention.
If this topic has brought up anything for you, it's okay. Look after yourself as best you can.
If you need further support:
Lifeline 13 11 14
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
John talks with Shayne Connell, the CEO of LivingWorks.
LivingWorks is an organisation that has been running for over 40 years and is focussed on suicide prevention.
Shane believes in the principles of community development, the LivingWorks training model focusses on training people from within the communities they are working with and using co-design to design their modules.
This means that their work is directly tailored for the communities they are working with, allowing these groups to decide what is important for them.
At the heart of their work is empowering individuals to have choice over how and when they talk about suicide.
"Suicide is a human condition, anyone can fall into crisis and distress where suicide becomes an option" Shayne Connell
Suicide can effect the community in a multitude of ways, it is a silent killer that can impact anybody.
Because of this Shane believes that it is everyone's responsibility and opportunity to learn the skills to identify suicide and keep people safe.
A key takeaway message for me was that suicide prevention training is just as important (if not more) as basic First Aid training in keeping the community safe.
So it's great that LivingWorks is here to walk alongside us and educate the community on suicide prevention.
If this topic has brought up anything for you, it's okay. Look after yourself as best you can.
If you need further support:
Lifeline 13 11 14
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
Jul 09, 202023:56
Wake up Aged Care Providers: Technology can help
How can technology keep your loved ones in Aged Care safer and more connected?
John O'Callaghan from Acsess Health talks about his game-changing products in Aged Care support.
Acsess Health was founded in 2004 and are innovative leaders in using technology to improve accessibility.
In this episode we dive into the world of technology, how it can empower us to support our loved ones and take the pressure off the hardworking carers.
John O'Callaghan talks us through two of his revolutionary products:
· Safe and secure screening technology
o An easier way to protect your loved ones from the impact of COVID that doesn't sap resources and gives us a good sense of security
· Staying connected during COVID
o A magic box that connects to your loved one's TV in the aged care facility and lets them video chat, look at your
photos and, it's controlled and set up remotely by family members from their home.
In a time where health resources are under pressure, it's great to see technology provide the solutions.
John O'Callaghan from Acsess Health talks about his game-changing products in Aged Care support.
Acsess Health was founded in 2004 and are innovative leaders in using technology to improve accessibility.
In this episode we dive into the world of technology, how it can empower us to support our loved ones and take the pressure off the hardworking carers.
John O'Callaghan talks us through two of his revolutionary products:
· Safe and secure screening technology
o An easier way to protect your loved ones from the impact of COVID that doesn't sap resources and gives us a good sense of security
· Staying connected during COVID
o A magic box that connects to your loved one's TV in the aged care facility and lets them video chat, look at your
photos and, it's controlled and set up remotely by family members from their home.
In a time where health resources are under pressure, it's great to see technology provide the solutions.
Jun 23, 202018:54
Good & bad experiences for International Students in Australia
During the conversation with Philip Liu, who is a strong advocate for international students, we covered the following areas
•Conscious and unconscious racist perceptions towards people of Asian descent.
•Be yourself, don't change because of peer pressure
•How international students in Australia can remain resilient and not feel like they need to say sorry all the time
•Strategies in managing anxiety & confusion for international students during stressful time
•The important roles & sacrifices that international students make when entering Australia's work force
Jun 10, 202020:28
Collective messages from Disability Service Providers across Australia
"I'm not shaking your hand mate, I don't care who you are."
This is one of the quotes that stuck in my mind, as I was producing this episode you are about to experience.
It's a response from a client who was interacting with a Chief Executive Officer from an Australian Disability Service Provider.
The CEO acknowledged "that sometimes you just got to stop and reflect, so that we can be reminded that when we need to do things rightly, advice can come from people we wouldn't normally expect."
No matter what business you are in, I believe there are many takeaway messages that you will relate to, with this episode.
My takeaway message after listening to this episode is that organisations are responding quickly as situations are continuingly changing.
There are hopefully now less boxes to be ticked before things can be approved.
Right now, it's all about being responsive when creating innovative ways to support people.
Whist at the same time continue to listen to the people who are being supported.
I would like to thank the 11 CEO's from Disability Services Providers from around Australia who contributed by leaving short recorded messages of innovation, support, and creativity during COVID-19 period.
Another great highlight for me was understanding how each organisation is uniquely different.
Thank you to the National Disability Services for assisting in finding organisations who chose to be a part of this episode.
These are the names of the organisations that participated.
SelfHelp - Donna Bain
Multicap - Joanne Jessop
Activ Foundation - Danielle Newport
Aruma - Andrew Richardson
OCConnections - Therese Desmond
Wallara - Phil Hayes-Brown
Helping People Achieve - Tony Burns
genU - Graeme Kelly
Community Living Australia - Mark Kulinski
Mambourin - Rohan Braddy
SCOPE - Jennifer Fitzgerald
This is one of the quotes that stuck in my mind, as I was producing this episode you are about to experience.
It's a response from a client who was interacting with a Chief Executive Officer from an Australian Disability Service Provider.
The CEO acknowledged "that sometimes you just got to stop and reflect, so that we can be reminded that when we need to do things rightly, advice can come from people we wouldn't normally expect."
No matter what business you are in, I believe there are many takeaway messages that you will relate to, with this episode.
My takeaway message after listening to this episode is that organisations are responding quickly as situations are continuingly changing.
There are hopefully now less boxes to be ticked before things can be approved.
Right now, it's all about being responsive when creating innovative ways to support people.
Whist at the same time continue to listen to the people who are being supported.
I would like to thank the 11 CEO's from Disability Services Providers from around Australia who contributed by leaving short recorded messages of innovation, support, and creativity during COVID-19 period.
Another great highlight for me was understanding how each organisation is uniquely different.
Thank you to the National Disability Services for assisting in finding organisations who chose to be a part of this episode.
These are the names of the organisations that participated.
SelfHelp - Donna Bain
Multicap - Joanne Jessop
Activ Foundation - Danielle Newport
Aruma - Andrew Richardson
OCConnections - Therese Desmond
Wallara - Phil Hayes-Brown
Helping People Achieve - Tony Burns
genU - Graeme Kelly
Community Living Australia - Mark Kulinski
Mambourin - Rohan Braddy
SCOPE - Jennifer Fitzgerald
May 10, 202022:41
Disability, it's a joke, for some
Tim Ferguson and I had a funny chat, to be expected, as he is a professional comedian.
(From his website cheekymonkeycomedy.com) Tim is a widely acclaimed comedian, writer and producer. He's toured the world performing stand-up and musical comedy, co-writing dozens of live stage comedy shows and light entertainment programmes.
What made this conversation meaningful for me was that we spoke heart to heart as two people with disabilities and how we use humour when we interact with the rest of the world.
Tim has multiple sclerosis and I've had a physical disability since birth.
A lot of the discussion was also focused on what is humour and does it really matter if it offends others?
(From his website cheekymonkeycomedy.com) Tim is a widely acclaimed comedian, writer and producer. He's toured the world performing stand-up and musical comedy, co-writing dozens of live stage comedy shows and light entertainment programmes.
What made this conversation meaningful for me was that we spoke heart to heart as two people with disabilities and how we use humour when we interact with the rest of the world.
Tim has multiple sclerosis and I've had a physical disability since birth.
A lot of the discussion was also focused on what is humour and does it really matter if it offends others?
Apr 23, 202028:45
Supporting those who are missing out on podcasts
Christina Canters from Podcast Services Australia and producer and host of 'Stand Out Get Noticed' podcast joined me to talk about "Supporting those who are missing out on podcasts"
Christina's insights into understanding the podcast audience enriched our conversation which focused on people who are not listening to podcasts and why.
Christina and I shared different strategies for podcast listeners who are interested in helping others connect with podcasts.
Existing barriers include accessible formats for the Deaf community, and senior members of our community missing out due to not having a good understanding of technology.
Christina's insights into understanding the podcast audience enriched our conversation which focused on people who are not listening to podcasts and why.
Christina and I shared different strategies for podcast listeners who are interested in helping others connect with podcasts.
Existing barriers include accessible formats for the Deaf community, and senior members of our community missing out due to not having a good understanding of technology.
Apr 16, 202018:26
Social isolation is not new to us
In the spirit of staying connected during these times, the following 12 recordings are from individuals who live with disabilities such as, Schizoaffective disorder, Deaf Blindness, Cerebral palsy, Oculocutaneous Albinism, physical and intellectual disabilities and want to share their own personal message to the world.
What's evident for me after listening to these insights, is that people with disabilities already live everyday with skills around being adaptable and robust.
As the community navigates through these changing times there needs to be a mind shift, so that people with disabilities are seen as a valuable resource, who, on a daily basis are resilient and creative whist remaining positive when it comes to living in the broader community.
I sincerely thank the people who left recorded messages using their mobile phone, my support team Xinxin & Jian who were fantastic when it comes to making this technology work.
Also I must acknowledge the continuing support from OutScribe Transcription Services who transcribed all of my episodes so that they are accessible to all.
Apr 03, 202028:17
Lawyer lottery, will yours take a risk?
Samantha Lovrich is the co-founder of Legal Tech Helper and legal operations coach.
In this interview we talk about the importance of lawyers stepping into the shoes of their clients, the role of open questions and deep listening to build empathy, and the role of coaching and mentoring to create better culture in legal teams.
We also discuss the role that technology can play to address unmet legal needs. We hear about online guided client interviews that allow ordinary people to get legal information targeted to their circumstances - without giving away personal information.
In this interview we talk about the importance of lawyers stepping into the shoes of their clients, the role of open questions and deep listening to build empathy, and the role of coaching and mentoring to create better culture in legal teams.
We also discuss the role that technology can play to address unmet legal needs. We hear about online guided client interviews that allow ordinary people to get legal information targeted to their circumstances - without giving away personal information.
Mar 11, 202023:17
He sells words because his words sell
Tom Valcanis is a copywriter and journalist that sells words.
He writes words for businesses, not-for-profit, and more so they can get their point across as effectively as possible.
In this intriguing interview we touch on how making writing simple means more people can understand. That, and anyone can be a writer!
We covered topics such as how if you can talk you can write; subtle mistakes that can cost your business; why being concise is king; some rules aren't what they used to be; and how to cultivate a practice of writing.
You can also contact Tom for his course on better business writing; more at the end of the episode.
He writes words for businesses, not-for-profit, and more so they can get their point across as effectively as possible.
In this intriguing interview we touch on how making writing simple means more people can understand. That, and anyone can be a writer!
We covered topics such as how if you can talk you can write; subtle mistakes that can cost your business; why being concise is king; some rules aren't what they used to be; and how to cultivate a practice of writing.
You can also contact Tom for his course on better business writing; more at the end of the episode.
Mar 10, 202020:53
Deaf and Proud
Brent Phillips is a proud third generation deaf Australian.
He identifies himself as Culturally and linguistically Deaf. Brent is also an Executive Director - Language, Partnerships & Innovation at Expression Australia.
It was an insightful interview that focused on Brent's views of the Deaf culture in Australia, ranging from myths to misassumptions.
These include information such as
· 95% of people who are Deaf are born to hearing parents
· Acceptance of the Cochlear implant from the Deaf community
· Medical intervention and how parents aren't always given the opportunity to make an informed decision
· How Deaf people are not all the same, when it comes to their hearing loss
Mar 07, 202016:09
Is a conscious death a perfect death?
Annie Whitlocke is a Death Elder and Palliative care liaison coordinator at Buddhist Council of Victoria.
To be honest, I went into this interview with a sense of discomfort and also a mix of excitement.
My favourite part of our chat was hearing about the Tonglen meditation practice.
Tonglen Meditation is Tibetan meditation style which means giving and taking and visualizing the suffering of others via your breath.
I do hope that there are some interesting takeaway messages for you, as Annie & I discuss many other topics around dying from Voluntary Assisted Dying to her own perfect death.
Mar 02, 202020:34
Need more space for a sneaky kiss & cuddle? Try the Accessible Toilet!!
One of Bruce Bromley's (from Equal Access Group) favourite phrases is
"Everyone, Everywhere, Everytime" especially when it comes to addressing accessibility for people with disabilities in Australia.
This fascinating interview touches on the many aspects of what physical access to the built environment is all about.
It's definitely not just about replacing a step with a ramp.
Here are some of the topics that we covered:
· Being aware of accessibilities in open spaces such as parks
· What does universal access mean?
· How different disability types have specific accessibility requirements
· The Changing Places project
· Evacuation from public buildings for infants & adults
· Building codes & Heritage buildings in Australia
· Liveable Housing Australia
Feb 21, 202020:33
What motivates some people to be on not for profit boards?
You can never over emphasize the importance of compassion and humanity, especially when it's a not for profit organisation, where outcomes are measured by the quality of people's lives.
Yes, organisations should have a Vision and Mission that feeds a strategic plan, but it shouldn't override the purpose of fairness and human rights.
Dorothy, Geoff and Graeme give their unique perspective on how important it is to weave Human Values into Good Governance
Dorothy Graff
Dorothy Graff's consultancy, Career Futures, provides career coaching for people seeking to make a significant job move either voluntarily or through retrenchment. Specialties: coaching at any organisational level for both for-profit and not-for profit organisations
See Dorothy's LinkedIn profile for more details. www.linkedin.com/in/dorothy-graff-oam-64429728/
Geoff Donovan
Throughout my legal career I came to appreciate that when you have purpose, you can achieve. I believed in collaboration not competition and the joint creation of economic and social value with my clients through shared purpose. I was the Founder and Director of Purpose Law, a commercial law firm that was client focused and purpose driven.
See Geoff's LinkedIn profile for more details. www.linkedin.com/in/geoffdonovan/
Graeme Kelly
An experienced, successful C-Suite executive, governance leader and consultant with organisations that make an important social impact. The organisations include major health and emergency services as well as significant "for purpose" organisations in the disability, mental health and education sectors.
See Graeme's LinkedIn profile for more details. www.linkedin.com/in/graeme-kelly-8609a120/
Yes, organisations should have a Vision and Mission that feeds a strategic plan, but it shouldn't override the purpose of fairness and human rights.
Dorothy, Geoff and Graeme give their unique perspective on how important it is to weave Human Values into Good Governance
Dorothy Graff
Dorothy Graff's consultancy, Career Futures, provides career coaching for people seeking to make a significant job move either voluntarily or through retrenchment. Specialties: coaching at any organisational level for both for-profit and not-for profit organisations
See Dorothy's LinkedIn profile for more details. www.linkedin.com/in/dorothy-graff-oam-64429728/
Geoff Donovan
Throughout my legal career I came to appreciate that when you have purpose, you can achieve. I believed in collaboration not competition and the joint creation of economic and social value with my clients through shared purpose. I was the Founder and Director of Purpose Law, a commercial law firm that was client focused and purpose driven.
See Geoff's LinkedIn profile for more details. www.linkedin.com/in/geoffdonovan/
Graeme Kelly
An experienced, successful C-Suite executive, governance leader and consultant with organisations that make an important social impact. The organisations include major health and emergency services as well as significant "for purpose" organisations in the disability, mental health and education sectors.
See Graeme's LinkedIn profile for more details. www.linkedin.com/in/graeme-kelly-8609a120/
Feb 08, 202025:05
Holiday Accessible Accommodation, no longer in the "Too Hard Basket"
The holiday bug will definitely bite you after Kerry Willliams from Accessible Accommodation explains how her business continues to develop a great resource that provides information for people with physical disabilities looking for suitable holiday accommodation.
Kerry also shared with me how her Facebook page is being used as a great communication tool for travelers with physical disabilities wanting to inquire or share their own accessible accommodation experiences.
*Transcript of this interview is also available*
Kerry also shared with me how her Facebook page is being used as a great communication tool for travelers with physical disabilities wanting to inquire or share their own accessible accommodation experiences.
*Transcript of this interview is also available*
Jan 17, 202017:57
Is Divorce a dirty word?
Eliza Tipping talks with me about her book she is writing on the different aspects of divorce, from a personal perspective and her findings after 12 months of research in Australia.
Eliza shared how her journey about the support she had and how writing played an important role in having a amicable divorce outcome.
Eliza shared how her journey about the support she had and how writing played an important role in having a amicable divorce outcome.
Nov 08, 201917:23
Are children resilient enough or are they being mollycoddled?
It was great getting Terry Laidler's take on a range of topics ranging from the resilience of children in Australia and the impacts of family breakdowns and the role the community plays.
Oct 05, 201914:27
Inclusive Meaningful Volunteering, goes beyond stuffing envelopes
Camellia Sayed from Volunteering Victoria along with Marnie Higgs talk with me about the Victoria ALIVE project which aims to improve disability Inclusion in the volunteering community sector.
We also covered the broader topics about the pros and cons for services & people with disabilities when considering volunteering.
For more details, go to volunteeringvictoria.org.au and www.victoriaalive.org.au
Aug 25, 201917:02
Little Bird That's Fallen From The Nest
Mum, Dad & I talk about their journey as parents of a child with a severe physical disability, which is me :) - 1962
Jul 12, 201928:10