Conversations

Lindsey Fidler’s quest to find her biological father started with jazz and an American Air Force Base. It ended with a trip to the U.S. through a disastrous free flights promotion run by the British division of Hoover Vacuums.Sociologist Lindsey Fidler’s parents met and married in the 1960s in East Anglia, United Kingdom.They would go to jazz clubs and socialise with the men from the American Air Force base nearby.Lindsey’s father was known as The Typewriter King because he could fix any typewriter in the area.He had contracts to repair machines on the nearby base, and even in London, where he was responsible for some of the Royal typewriters.This was the world Lindsey knew — the one she was born into. However, she was always separated from it somehow.Adults behaved strangely around her, and she felt she didn’t fit in.She was 22 when her parents sat her down and told her why.This episode of Conversations touches on biological fathers, family secrets, secrets we keep, epic life stories, belonging, identity, race, infidelity, siblings, affairs, being mixed race, blended families, biological parents, step parents, sociology, finding dad, personal stories, origin stories, typewriters, jazz, U.S. military, motherhood and self.

Join Paul Livingston, a musician known for his comedic alter-ego, Flacco, and Nadia Madhuri, a counselor and author specializing in maternal mental health. They delve into the healing power of humor and how bell ringing provides comfort through life's toughest moments. Paul shares his transformative experiences as a hospital volunteer, capturing poignant life stories of those nearing the end, while Nadia reflects on her journey into motherhood and her cultural roots. Their conversation weaves comedy, caregiving, and the importance of heritage.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned physician and expert on trauma, delves into how early experiences shape our lives. He explores the profound effects of childhood trauma on addiction and chronic illness, using his own journey as a testament to healing. Maté emphasizes the connection between emotional well-being and physical health, challenging conventional thought. He advocates for compassion and understanding in mental health treatment and highlights how play can facilitate personal growth and healing.

Nadia Mahjouri, a Moroccan-Australian author and maternal mental health counselor, shares her transformative journey of discovering her father's identity while embracing motherhood. She explores the concept of matrescence and how it reshaped her sense of self. With a blend of cultural heritage and personal storytelling, Nadia discusses the poignant moments of searching for family in Marrakech and the emotional challenges faced after becoming a mother. Her experiences highlight the beauty of family bonds and the significance of one’s roots.

Gus Worland, TV and radio host known for his heartfelt engagement with mental health, shares his journey of grief after losing two father figures. He examines what it means to be a strong man in a society that often shuns vulnerability. Gus discusses his candid radio moment that sparked a national conversation on masculinity and suicide prevention. The podcast also touches on fatherhood, the impact of loss, and the need for emotional openness, highlighting his efforts to redefine masculinity through the Gotcha4Life Foundation.

Brigitte Muir is a renowned mountaineer who made history by climbing the tallest peaks on all seven continents. In this conversation, she shares her exhilarating journey, from her roots in Belgium to facing life-and-death challenges on Everest. Brigitte discusses the emotional toll of loss and the strength she discovered within herself. She also reflects on the unique culture of the Himalayas and her efforts to empower women in Nepal. Her adventures reveal not just the beauty of nature, but profound lessons in resilience and community.

David Whyte, a renowned poet and philosopher, shares insights from his rich journey in poetry, deeply influenced by his Irish roots and early experiences. He emphasizes how a single line of poetry can transform lives, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in our everyday moments. Whyte reflects on a near-death experience in the Galapagos, which illuminated his understanding of life and vulnerability. The discussion explores how poetry navigates emotions, captures the essence of human connections, and facilitates personal growth through artistic expression.

Dannielle Miller, CEO of Enlighten Education and advocate for at-risk youth, shares her remarkable journey from fearful novice teacher to trusted mentor. She discusses her childhood experiences with domestic abuse, shaping her resilience and approach to teaching. The impact of societal pressures on teenagers, especially girls, is examined, along with the importance of creating safe environments and understanding their unique struggles. Dannielle also addresses the urgent need for improvements in school facilities, highlighting how overlooked issues affect student well-being.

Clare Wright, a Professor of History at La Trobe University and author of "Naku Daruk: The Bark Petitions," dives into a little-known yet pivotal moment in Australian democracy. She shares her experiences living in the Yolngu community and uncovers the significance of the Bark Petitions, where Yolngu people asserted their custodianship over their land through art and language. Clare highlights the transformative effects these petitions had on Indigenous rights, revealing a profound cultural and political awakening that reshaped the narrative of democracy in Australia.

Jimmy Webb, a legendary singer-songwriter known for classics like "Wichita Lineman" and "By the Time I Get to Phoenix," shares his journey from a poor preacher's kid in Oklahoma to a musical icon. He reflects on how his upbringing shaped his artistry, his humorous anecdotes about songwriting mishaps, and the personal losses that fueled his creativity. Webb also discusses the joy of collaboration with legends and the fascinating nuances of songwriting, emphasizing that imperfections can enhance a song's character.