Conversations

Ken Faulkner, a respected natural horseman who transforms both horses and their riders, shares his compelling journey of recovery after a life-threatening accident. He discusses the importance of understanding equine instincts and the emotional connections essential for effective horsemanship. Ken contrasts traditional and modern training methods, emphasizing compassion and trust-building. His experiences with a one-eyed foal highlight the power of patience and communication in overcoming challenges, showcasing his growth as a horseman and individual.

Ailsa Piper, a writer and speaker who turned profound grief into a journey of self-discovery, shares her emotional evolution after losing her husband unexpectedly. She recounts finding solace in water, reflecting on Sydney’s healing community. The significance of a shared annotated dictionary symbolizes ongoing love beyond loss. Ailsa also discusses resilience during health crises and the importance of daily family conversations that foster deep connections. Her story celebrates the luck found in love and kindness amid life’s challenges.

Carol Perry shares her inspiring journey from conventional life to creating a communal farm in northern New South Wales. She discusses her adventurous motorbike travels through Asia and her experiences teaching in war-torn areas, which influenced her values of community and sustainability. Carol emphasizes the joy of a mortgage-free lifestyle, the importance of conflict resolution, and how communal living fosters connections. She highlights the beauty of nature and personal growth, while also weaving in the challenges and joys of aging within a supportive community.

Kim McKay, the Director and CEO of The Australian Museum, shares insights on the museum's vast collection of 22 million historical objects. She discusses the ethical complexities of repatriating Indigenous remains and emphasizes the importance of respecting cultural identities. McKay also reflects on the emotional impact of travel and the legacy of historical figures like Johann Gerard Creft. Additionally, she highlights the origins of the Clean Up Australia Movement and the urgency of addressing archaeological finds, connecting past and present through environmental and cultural stewardship.

In this conversation, Andrew Ford, a composer and broadcaster, dives into humanity's musical journey from prehistoric times to the modern era. He discusses the profound link between music and human experiences, touching on how early influences shaped iconic bands like The Beatles. The rich history of orchestral composition is explored, alongside the evolution of music notation and its cultural significance. Ford also tackles the impact of the internet on music's future, examining subjective interpretations and the parental bond through lullabies.

Laurie Lawrence, a superstar swim coach who triumphed over a chronic lung condition, shares his inspiring journey. He reflects on how a pivotal event in 1956 sparked his swimming passion. Laurie discusses the resilience learned through recovery and the bond formed in sports. He details his transition from a physical education teacher to a dedicated coach, emphasizing the power of connection. Laurie also highlights a young swimmer’s journey from silver to gold and the joy of teaching infants to swim, showcasing the transformative nature of the sport.

In this conversation, Jana Pittman, one of Australia’s most renowned athletes, shares her remarkable journey. She reveals her struggles with body image and societal expectations as a tall female athlete. Jana recounts the pivotal moment when she shifted her focus from medicine to chasing Olympic dreams. She discusses the crucial role her father's support played in her success and navigates the challenges of balancing fame with mental health. Finally, Jana reflects on her transition to bobsledding while maintaining her medical career, showcasing resilience and personal growth.

Christie Dawes, a seasoned wheelchair racing competitor with seven Paralympic appearances, shares her inspiring journey through triumph and adversity. She recounts the emotional aftermath of the 2013 Boston Marathon and reflects on the camaraderie among female athletes in downhill racing. Christie opens up about her father's struggles and the importance of community during her childhood rehabilitation. With humor and resilience, she challenges stereotypes surrounding disabilities in sports while emphasizing the need for thoughtful discourse about disability language.

In this enlightening discussion, Anna Meares, an 11-time World Champion and a trailblazing Olympic cyclist, shares her remarkable journey from the competitive circuit to becoming Australia's Chef de Mission for Paris 2024. She reflects on her emotional experience as the flag bearer at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the strategic insights behind her rivalry with Victoria Pendleton. Anna also candidly explores the complexities of sibling rivalry, her inspiring comeback from injury, and how motherhood has brought her newfound joy post-retirement.

Lisa Curry, a celebrated Australian swimmer and entrepreneur, shares her inspiring journey marked by Olympic glory and personal heartbreak. She opens up about the tragic loss of her daughter, Jaimi, and the profound impact it had on her identity. The conversation dives into her experiences navigating grief, the challenges of both competition and family life, and the importance of mental strategies in sports. Lisa also reflects on her early swimming memories and the crucial role her coach played in her development, blending humor with poignant lessons.