THE COURAGE TO LEAD INTERVIEW SERIES

In this deeply powerful episode of The Courage to Lead Interview Series, Allan Sicard speaks with Deborah Wallace APM — one of Australia’s most respected policing leaders. From frontline policing to organised crime, from tragedy to reform, Deb shares extraordinary insights on leadership, integrity, community safety, and resilience. This conversation explores authentic leadership beyond rank, the power of listening, and the human moments that define great leaders. An essential episode for anyone passionate about courage, service, and making a difference.   COURAGE   COMPASSION   LEGACY   Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book Listen now to The Courage to Lead Podcast and explore more stories of leaders who are redefining courage into action, empowering others to create supportive and inclusive workplaces where people can thrive.

In this episode of The Courage to Lead Interview Series, Allan Sicard speaks with Debbie Lee, owner and publisher of Ginninderra Press and Festival Director of Melbourne Jewish Book Week. From her childhood instinct to protect the kid being left out, to her early days as a book rep, to inheriting Ginninderra Press from its founder Stephen Matthews, Debbie’s story is all about connection. She shares how she builds strong networks across the publishing world, champions First Nations and social justice stories, helps an 81-year-old survivor bring a lifelong secret to light, and supports advocates tackling gambling harm and homelessness. Debbie also reflects on identity, antisemitism, and hosting Israeli–Palestinian peace-builders in an era of deep division. This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership can simply be the courage to Connect, Include and Listen. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book Listen now to The Courage to Lead Podcast and explore more stories of leaders who are redefining courage into action, empowering others to create supportive and inclusive workplaces where people can thrive.

In this episode of The Courage to Lead Interview Series, I sit down with Matt LaHood, founder and real estate CEO of The Agency. Matt shares how his leadership was shaped by his parents — a father who brought thongs to Australia and a mother who backed him to take courageous risks — and by giants like John McGrath and John Symond. We explore how he built an “attraction business” where people queue to join, why he believes you “can’t coach care,” and how he spots and supports team members with “black clouds” over their heads. Matt opens up about difficult conversations, rejection, retention, and doing the right thing every time. This is leadership with Heart, Consistency and Courage.       Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book Listen now to The Courage to Lead Podcast and explore more stories of leaders who are redefining courage into action, empowering others to create supportive and inclusive workplaces where people can thrive.

Captain Michelle Huntington — pilot, author of Lady MacGyver, and breast-cancer survivor — shares how curiosity, preparation, and mentoring forged her leadership. From conquering air-sickness by teaching the lesson to ferrying a Beechcraft across the Pacific with a 750-kg fuel bladder and a syringe-fed oil hack, she shows why you must “fly one hour in a thousand different ways.” As a 737 Captain she led with questions, analogies, and trust, proving that checklists and compassion can coexist. Her three beacons: don’t take “no” as final, choose the hard reps, and treat every person as significant. This is a blueprint for staying calm when the air gets bumpy — in the cockpit and in life. This conversation is about: COMPASSION, PREPARATION, KINDNESS   Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book Listen now to The Courage to Lead Podcast and explore more stories of leaders who are redefining courage into action, empowering others to create supportive and inclusive workplaces where people can thrive.  

The Humanity of Hugh Brasher: Leading the World’s Greatest Marathon with Heart In this episode, on The Courage to Lead Interview Series, Hugh Brasher — CEO of the TCS London Marathon — shares his deeply human approach to leadership. From growing up as the son of Olympic and tennis champions to leading one of the world’s most inspiring events, Hugh reveals the values that guide him: curiosity, humility, and compassion. He reflects on learning from mistakes, leading through values, and uniting communities through sport. His message is clear — togetherness beats competition. This is a story of humanity, courage, and what it truly means to lead. This conversation is about: Togetherness. Curiosity. Humanity. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book Listen now to The Courage to Lead Podcast and explore more stories of leaders who are redefining courage into action, empowering others to create supportive and inclusive workplaces where people can thrive.

In this powerful episode of The Courage to Lead, Allan Sicard sits down with Ally Kelly, Founder and CEO of MindBlank, to explore how early intervention and prevention can transform mental health outcomes. Ally shares her personal journey from carer to changemaker and explains how MindBlank’s innovative interactive theatre empowers people to “Spot, Share, and Refer” before crisis strikes. Through lived experience and practical wisdom, she shows how leaders, teachers, and workplaces can hold space for others and build resilience through empathy and awareness. This is a conversation about Prevention. Compassion. Empowerment. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book Listen now to The Courage to Lead Podcast and explore more stories of leaders who are redefining courage into action, empowering others to create supportive and inclusive workplaces where people can thrive.    

From a shy 14-year-old questioning how newspapers were delivered to leading Australia’s largest digital youth mental health platform, Gary Groves’ story is a masterclass in courage, curiosity, and compassion. In this episode, Gary reveals how vulnerability became his greatest strength — transforming command-and-control leadership into collaborative, evidence-based change. From the frontline of policing to shaping national reform, he shows that real leadership isn’t about knowing all the answers — it’s about asking the right questions. This is a conversation about courage, curiosity and compassion. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book Listen now to The Courage to Lead Podcast and explore more stories of leaders who are redefining courage into action, empowering others to create supportive and inclusive workplaces where people can thrive.

The Courage to Lead: From Ten Pound Pom to Triple G — The Extraordinary Life of Gillian Whan OAM In this warm and inspiring episode, Allan Sicard sits down with Gillian Whan OAM — nurse, migrant, political campaigner, radio announcer, theatre stage manager, historian, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Gillian’s story spans a wartime childhood in rural England (including the day she saw Winston Churchill), her migration to Australia as a “Ten Pound Pom” aboard the Orontes, and her early nursing career in Canberra. She shares vivid memories of campaigning with her husband Bob Whan, alongside Gough Whitlam in 1972, bringing to life one of the most transformative moments in Australian politics. Her life has been one of service and participation: leading the Woden Valley VIEW Club, broadcasting for community radio, reading for the vision-impaired, managing stage productions, and later preserving local history in Sydney. Family is at the heart of Gillian’s story — from her children Stephen and Susan to her grandchildren Lachie (“Triple G”), Maddie, Georgie, and Jamie, and her great-granddaughters Harriet and Elizabeth . This is a conversation about resilience, adaptability, and never being a bystander — a masterclass in leadership, community, and love across generations. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book

Leading with Empathy, Humanity, and Competence: Erin Longbottom on Healthcare for the Homeless.  In this powerful episode of The Courage to Lead, Allan Sicard reconnects with Erin Longbottom, Nurse Unit Manager of the Homeless Health Service at St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney. Erin shares her transformative leadership journey since stepping into the role in 2016, building a comprehensive street-based outreach model that serves Sydney’s most vulnerable populations. From assertive health care for people sleeping rough to navigating the trauma of a deeply religious upbringing, Erin speaks candidly about her purpose, pain, and passion for justice. This episode dives into the real-world impact of intergenerational trauma, why systemic empathy matters, and how Erin grew her team from one nurse to a multi-disciplinary powerhouse supporting people on the margins. A must-listen for leaders committed to equity, compassion, and sustainable change.  Erin 3 pillars of Leadership are: ✨ Empathy ✨ Humanity ✨ Competence This episode isn’t just about homelessness — it’s about leading a movement for equity, one courageous act at a time. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book

“From Redfern to Reform: Belinda Hughes on Courageous, Compassionate Leadership” 📄 Episode Summary: In this powerful episode of The Courage to Lead Interview Series, Allan Sicard sits down with Belinda Hughes—current Executive Director Legal for the Papua New Guinea Independent Commission Against Corruption—for a raw, inspiring, and deeply human conversation about leadership, resilience, and integrity. Belinda shares her extraordinary journey from her early days as a probationary constable in Redfern, to becoming a trailblazing prosecutor with Strike Force Raptor, and eventually taking her skills and values to the international stage. Along the way, she opens up about navigating motherhood in the police force, studying law while raising a daughter, and leading major cultural change in some of the most complex environments in Australia and the Pacific. With warmth and candour, Belinda reveals how she broke down barriers—sometimes literally with a netball team—and challenged the status quo with intelligence and heart. 🔑 Key Themes Discussed: Leading without rank: her first experience of real leadership as a junior constable Creating innovation and cultural change within police, transport, and regulatory agencies The importance of mentorship, authenticity, and ‘prosecuting nicely’ How she built trust in PNG through connection, culture—and netball Why emotional intelligence is a leadership superpower Whether you're an aspiring leader, a seasoned professional, or just in need of a fresh perspective, this episode will leave you reflecting on what it truly means to lead with courage and compassion. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book

  A Life of Service and Leadership: Danny Doherty’s Courage to Lead In the latest Courage to Lead Interview Series, I spoke with recently retired Detective Superintendent Danny “Dasha” Doherty, whose remarkable 40-year career in the NSW Police culminated in commanding the Homicide Squad. Reflecting on his journey, Danny shared how his formative years, shaped by a caring teacher and challenging family life, instilled early lessons in trust and leadership. A true servant leader, Danny’s career spanned undercover operations, major crime squads, and leading complex homicide investigations. He spoke powerfully about Winston Churchill’s words, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give,” which guided his life of service. Danny reminded us that resilience, trust, and staying true to yourself are non-negotiable traits for leaders under pressure. He credited his wife Jane, his love for music, and his team for keeping him grounded through tough times—including the loss of a colleague and confronting organised crime. 🔊 Listen now to learn how leadership can be about lighting other candles while keeping your own flame burning bright. His story is an inspiring testament to courage, compassion, and the power of leading with heart. through the concept of gratitude.  This is truly a different way of approaching leadership and creating a team of leaders around you. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book    

In this episode of The Courage to Lead, Belinda Sinclair, National Sales Director at Domain Australia, shares her journey of values-based leadership in a high-performance, highly competitive industry. From being promoted two weeks before maternity leave to leading with gratefulness, Belinda explores the power of trust, feedback, and building diverse teams. She opens up about setbacks, strategic growth, and how accountability and care can—and must—coexist. A masterclass in modern leadership, this episode is for anyone striving to lead with integrity, courage, and humility. 🔊 Listen now to learn how leadership can be created through the concept of gratitude.  This is truly a different way of approaching leadership and creating a team of leaders around you. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM.  

In this episode of The Courage to Lead, Deputy Commissioner Ben Millington shares his inspiring leadership journey from surf lifesaving as a teenager to leading operational coordination for NSW Rural Fire Service. Ben reflects on key lessons from policing in tough communities, coordinating crisis responses during the Black Summer fires and COVID, and driving reform in Queensland. With honesty and humility, he highlights the power of persistence, team trust, and listening deeply. A must-listen for leaders navigating high-stakes environments and complex change.   🔊 Listen now to learn how leadership in high stakes environments and more importantly how to prepare yourself to be the best leader you can be.   Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM.  

🎙 Navigating Leadership in Crisis Situations: Jamie Caldwell’s Leadership Journey In this powerful episode, we sit down with Jamie Caldwell, Director of Energy Operations in New South Wales, to explore what it means to lead through complexity, uncertainty, and crisis. Jamie shares his insights on why leadership is less about technical know-how and more about human connection, trust, and adaptability. He reflects on the challenges of operating in a rapidly evolving energy sector, the impact of shifting political landscapes, and the importance of continuous learning. From working alongside local politicians to managing diverse energy sources and ensuring equitable access, Jamie highlights the critical role of collaboration and communication in effective leadership. We dive into the importance of fostering strong team dynamics—through open dialogue, recognition, and one-on-one connection—and how these values shape a resilient and motivated workforce. The episode culminates with Jamie’s account of the Broken Hill electricity outage, a real-world crisis response that put leadership principles to the test. He walks us through the challenges of coordinating a statewide response, the importance of community resilience, and the need for strategic, calm decision-making under pressure. Whether you’re leading a team, navigating change, or preparing for the unexpected, this episode is packed with wisdom for leaders at every level. 🔊 Listen now to learn how leadership in crisis is built on connection, clarity, and courage.   Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM.

This interview by Allan Sicard on The Courage to Lead Interview Series with Professor Pauline Boss, author of Loving Someone with Dementia, looks at what our futures will be like.  1 in 2 women, and 1 in 3 men over 85, in the western world will experience dementia.   The scary part is that the carers of dementia are currently dying quicker than the people with dementia.   This interview and her book provides insights and valuable tips on how to navigate this challenging journey for both ourselves and our loved ones. The interview should also act as a level of awareness for leaders in any workplace, as the role of caregiver, amongst our employees will become more and more prevalent, and how do workplaces deal with this new challenge.   Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM.

This interview by Allan Sicard on The Courage to Lead Interview Series explores what is really meant by Gender Equality with a true expert in the field Professor Cordelia Fine.  This is the 2nd time Cordelia has been on our podcast(see Episode 36). She is described as a 'living legend' researcher in this field with her books on the subject having the following descriptions : ‘Ten books about women that will change your life’ (Sunday Times), '22 books women think men should read’ (Huffington Post), ‘Top 10 books on women in the past 30 years’ (The Australian) and the New York Public Library’s Essential Reads on Feminism, 100 Years After the 19th Amendment, among others.  Her latest book titled "Patriarchy Inc" seeks to shift the dial from something we need to do in a business sense to the concept of well-being for everyone.  As our responsibilities grow we have periods in our lives that we step in and out of paid work for care giving responsibilities as parent and as a carer, for partners, parents and relatives.  It is unfathomable that women should be the only care givers.  As the baby boomers age, 1 in 2 women over 80 and 1 in 3 men over 80 will suffer from dementia.  A lot of people will be parents to their children and carers to their parents.  Care giving will potentially be a greater activity than paid work.  Gender equality is getting lost in economic framing.  Equality and inclusion is about a fairer and more just society for everybody.  It really is that simple and something we should all embrace  and consider what our workplaces will need to be like to accomodate our care giving responsibilities.   Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM.

This interview by Allan Sicard on The Courage to Lead Interview Series delivers a story with a twist on leadership.  As we hit the golden age of 40 + we bring with us a level of wisdom and capabilities that we didn't possess when we were younger.   This is the story of leadership from Aneace Haddad, A C-Suite Coach who unlocks the potential of C-suite teams. Aneace introduces "joyful rejuvenation" as a proactive embrace of change and transformation. As individuals age, their resilience increases, allowing them to approach challenges with joy and curiosity rather than fear. He observes that leaders often default to a directive style, akin to parenting, which can infantilise team members. He advocates for empowering others, where leaders act as supportive guides rather than authoritative figures. The conversation concludes with the importance of joy in the workplace. Aneace highlights that when leaders embody fun and positivity, it sets the tone for the organisation, inspiring creativity and collaboration. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM.

This interview by Allan Sicard on The Courage to Lead Interview Series delivers a story that we do not see that often.  A CEO and a Company that genuinely puts their people first and from that building an amazing culture and a profitable business. This is the story of leadership from Michelle O'Keeffe, CEO of Engaging.io a technology business in North Sydney that recently placed in the top 10 workplaces for the Great Place to Work Australia in small businesses for 2024-5 and ranked in the top 3 for Technology business. Michelle O'Keeffe emphasised the importance of helping employees achieve their career goals, even if it means they move on to other opportunities. This open and supportive approach to employee development is a cornerstone of their culture. Imagine working for a company that supported you in this way.  Another great focus that Michelle and her team have is if clients put pressure on staff to work 24/7, after hours and on weekends Michelle will push back on the client and advise them that's not they do business.  We will work hard for you Monday to Friday in business hours and provide you with an excellent outcome - that's why you chose us.  How many bosses will do that for their staff. Is it any wonder their is a waiting list for Engaging.IO to work there.  There are always prospective staff knocking on the door wanting to work for Michelle and her team.   This is truly a story about leaders putting people first and what comes from that.  We need more stories and more leaders like Michelle O'Keeffe and Engaging.IO.  A special thank you for Great Place to Work Australia for highlighting that these type of workplaces exist and are more than possible. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM.

This interview by Allan Sicard on The Courage to Lead Interview Series delves into the captivating journey of renowned Australian journalist Peter Overton, exploring his path from school leadership to pivotal career moments like the Thredbo disaster, while emphasising the values of authenticity, mentorship, and teamwork that have shaped his distinguished career. By embracing early leadership opportunities, seeking mentorship, recognising and appreciating others, staying true to oneself, and building strong connections, aspiring leaders can navigate their own paths to success. Peter's insights serve as a testament to the power of values, resilience, and the impact of supportive relationships in achieving personal and professional growth. Follow Allan Sicard on Linkedin, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM

Wayne Larden is the Event Director of TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS - The 7th Abbott World Marathon Major.  This interview by host Allan Sicard is the second interview with Wayne Larden on The Courage to Lead Interview Series, with the first interview over 3 years ago, before the Sydney Marathon entered the qualifying process for it to become an Abbott World Marathon Major, next to the cities of Tokoyo, London, New York, Chicago, Boston and Berlin.  This is the story of how Wayne Larden and his team at Pont 3 turned a passion for marathon running and major events into Sydney becoming a World Major Marathon, putting Sydney and Australia on the world stage.   The link to the first interview with Wayne Larden is here. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn and at ALLANSICARD.COM