Head Game

With the year drawing to a close, I look back at some of the most impactful conversations I've had over the last year. In this episode, inaugural Masterchef winner Julie Goodwin's raw and candid conversation about her mental health; plus 7NEWS journalist Mike Amor recounts being on the ground as the September 11 attacks unfolded in 2001; and journalist Cheng Lei opens up about her experience in a Chinese prison after being accused of espionage.  SUPPORT For immediate support in a crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 More resources are available from Beyond Blue LINKS Listen to the full interview with Julie Goodwin here Listen to the full interview with Mike Amor here Listen to the full interview with Cheng Lei here Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ricardo Bardon Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A parent's instinct is to protect their children from harm, and in a world full of adversity, our kids have never needed resilience more. But wrapping them in cottonwool could be doing more harm than good. In this episode, former soldier, leadership consultant and resilience expert Tim Curtis shares his own lessons from the battleground and corporate life. He also unpacks the extensive research and advice from childhood experts gone into developing the knowledge and techniques within his latest book 'Building Resilient Kids'. LINKS Tim's book 'Buliding Resilient Kids' is available now Follow Tim on Instagram More information on The Resilence Shield Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ricardo Bardon Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter Baines spent years as part of the New South Wales police force investigating some of the state's most horrific crimes and collecting and analysing the forensic evidence to convict the perpetrators. After helping with the recovery and investigation of the Bali bombings in 2002, Peter was tapped to assist when a devastating tsunami struck Thailand on Boxing Day, 2004. In this raw and candid conversation, Peter details the heartbreaking aftermath of major natural disaster, as he and his team were tasked with identifying thousands of bodies left in the tsunami's wake. The devastation he witnesses prompted Peter to start a charity to help the disadvantaged children of Thailand, recently marking the 20th anniversary of his efforts by running 1,400 kilometres across Thailand. LINKS Peter's book 'Building Resilient Kids' is available now Follow Peter on Instagram More information on Hands Across The Water Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ricardo Bardon Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saya Sakakibara and her brother Kai grew up competing in BMX racing, starting when her family moved to Japan. When they relocated back to Sydney, the pair quickly rose through the ranks, winning a slew of state and national titles between them. No stranger to accidents while competing, Saya had suffered a number of concussions herself before Kai was involved in a serious accident in 2020. It left him with a life-changing traumatic brain injury, and Saya with a crippling fear of getting back on the bike. In this episode, Saya details the strong bond she and Kai formed through BMX, how her fear of competing grew over the years and how she found a renewed passion and purpose to return to competition, winning Gold at the Paris Olympic Games and becoming World Champion three years running. LINKS Saya's book 'Just Go' is available now Follow Saya on Instagram Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ricardo Bardon Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's no denying that many modern 'conveniences' are actually making us less resilient, sicker and un happier than ever before. And we've been told for years to avoid stress to help us live better. But in his new book The Hardiness Effect, Dr Paul Taylor says we need to view potential adversity as a challenge, rather than a threat. Instead, we should be embracing stress and using it as fuel to reach our full potential. In this episode, former Royal Navy Officer turned psychophysiologist Dr Paul Taylor outlines some of the ancient wisdom with cutting-edge research that backs The Hardiness Effect, and the steps you can take to embrace challenge, welcome change and boost your physical and mental health. LINKS Paul's book 'The Hardiness Effect' is available now Follow Paul on Instagram Listen to Paul's podcast 'Hardiness with Dr Paul Taylor' Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ricardo Bardon Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of suicide and mental health issues. Barry Du Bois had been a successful builder who had retired young and was sailing around the world, when he was tapped to join the TV world, becoming a beloved face on our TV screens thanks to the hugely popular TV series The Living Room. But behind the beaming smile that greeted audiences was a lifetime of trauma and pain, including his public cancer battle. In this candid conversation, Barry recounts how he almost let his deteriorating mental health get the better of him, until a well-timed phone call from a mate saved his life. He also details his struggle to start a family with wife Leonie, and why he fired one of the doctors treating his cancer. SUPPORT For immediate support in a crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 More resources are available from Beyond Blue As this episode demonstrates - a conversation can change a life. Ask R U OK? any day. LINKS More on Well Traveller Follow Barry on Instagram Follow R U OK? on Instagram Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ricardo Bardon Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adam Reynolds grew up in the Sydney suburb of Redfern - the heartland of the South Sydney Rabbitohs. A gifted junior footy player, he quickly rose through the ranks, taking home plenty of awards and ultimately winning the NRL premiership in 2014. But he shocked the NRL community in 2021 when he left the Rabbitohs to head north and captain the Brisbane Broncos - leading them to victory in the 2025 NRL Grand Final. But his success hasn't been without its struggles. He's battled multiple injuries throughout his career, the latest sidelining him as the Broncos beat the Melbourne Storm to take home the 2025 Premiership. Now Adam is detailing the highs and lows of his career in his memoir 'On My Own Terms'. Adam spoke with Ant about his determination to get through injuries, how his young family inspires him and the power of teamwork. LINKS Adam's book 'On My Own Terms' is out now Follow Adam on Instagram Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ricardo Bardon Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jack Carr grew up with a love of reading, and when he joined the Navy SEALs, he always carried a book with him into battle. But when we left the military life to focus on his family, a new career as a bestselling author flourished. Now his books have been adapted into two hit Amazon Prime Video series: The Terminal List starring Chris Pratt, and The Terminal List: Dark Wolf starring Taylor Kitsch. In this episode, Jack reveals how his love of reading fuelled his military career, the lessons from his SEAL training he still carries with him today, and how his experience has made him a better storyteller today. LINKS Jack Carr's latest book 'Cry Havoc' is out now Follow Jack on Instagram Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ricardo Bardon Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing up in a strict religious household and sheltered from the outside world, Claire McAuliffe found herself coerced into marriage at the age of 18. When her husband moved Claire and their growing family to a compound belonging to a known doomsday cult, she slowly began to question the absurd teachings and questionable actions of cult leaders and members. As her questions grew, Claire found herself and her children kicked out of the family home. In this episode, Claire reveals why she and her kids were actually happy when the sheriff knocked on her door with an eviction notice, and how she endured decades under strict religious lifestyles.  SUPPORT For domestic violence support, contact 1800 RESPECT  More resources are available here LINKS Claire's book 'Lessons From A Cult Survivor' is out now Follow Claire on Instagram Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Ricardo Bardon Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In August 2025, Port Adelaide star Travis Boak called time on his 19-year AFL career. Known for his commitment to the game and strong mental focus over a record 387 games with the club, he's now sharing his life lessons from two decades of high performance in the new book 'The Power Within'.  In this episode, Travis discusses how, while his father's death fuelled his success mindset, it was ultimately exhausting and broke him down. He also explores how mindfulness and self-acceptance helped him achieve lasting success and happiness; and how changing up his off-season training helped him better understand his body and elevate his performance. LINKS Grab a copy of Travis' book 'The Power Within' Follow Travis on Instagram Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing up, Jaye Pukepuke dreamed of making it big in rugby league. But falling in with the wrong crowd led him to a life of crime. Convicted of 15 armed robberies, his jail sentence not only ripped away his freedom, but his hopes of hitting the heights of the NRL. But sitting in a cell and wanting more from life, Jaye made the most of opportunities to progress within New Zealand's rugby league divisions.  Now, Jaye is hoping a new generation of Māori youth will learn from his mistakes, operating a charity and education program to reconnect teams with nature and culture. LINKS Grab a copy of Jaye's book 'Inner Warror' Follow Jaye on Instagram More info on Bros For Change Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After graduating from university as a marine biologist, Matt Lewis scored his first big role in the field as an observer aboard the South African fishing vessel Sudur Havid. Just three weeks after leaving dry land, the boat was hit by a massive Antarctic storm. As a massive swell swamped the vessel, the water pumps failed.The Sudur Havid tipped on its side and was unable to recover.  In this episode, Matt Lewis recounts the chaos that ensued as the emergency unfolded on deck, the dangerously cold conditions that would ultimately claim 17 lives, and how he - even as one of the youngest on board - was the last man off the stricken boat.  LINKS Grab a copy of Matt's book 'Last Man Off' Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rhonda Hapi-Smith never intended on following her father and brothers into New Zealand's corrections service. But at a crossroads in life as she approached the age of 30, she relented and became a prison guard, working at some of the country's most notorious jails. But 20 years of keeping convicted criminals in line and keeping her work and personal life separate took their toll.  In this episode, Rhonda details what it's really like inside prison from someone who enforced the rules. She also speaks about the about the many internal conflicts she endured, including imprisoned family members, the role of the Māori and having empathy and compassion for prisoners. LINKS Grab a copy of Rhonda's book 'Inside The Wire' Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matty Johns is one of Australia’s best known and most beloved sportsmen. Growing up in a small town with a passion for rugby league, his decade-long NRL career opened the door to a successful media career following appearances on Channel 9's The Footy Show. But as Matty admits to Ant in this episode, success didn’t come easily. Growing up in a small rural town, he almost followed his father down the coal mine. But after setting his sights on a footy career, a sibling rivalry with brother Andrew, and the mistrust he placed in his own talent helped fuel his determination and winning mindset. LINKS Check out the 'Backstage with Cooper & Matty Johns' podcast Listen to the 'Matty & Cronk' podcast Catch Matty Johns on Fox Sports Listen to Ant Middleton's appearance on 'Backstage with Cooper & Matty Johns' Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During Operation Desert Storm, part of the Gulf War in 1991, Des Powell was part of the Bravo Three Zero patrol that successfully infiltrated enemy lines to take out scud missiles. It was a story that was overshadowed by the tragedy of Zero Two Bravo, which saw three soldiers killed and another four captured. In this episode, Des recounts his reluctant entry into the military, influenced by his family's military background, to joining the Parachute Regiment, facing SAS selection twice, and the lessons he learned along the way.  LINKS Des' book 'SAS: My Trial By Fire: True Stories and Life Lessons from SAS Selection' is out now: Australia / UK Follow Des on Instagram Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Winterbottom is one of Australia's most successful Supercars drivers, but his success didn't come easy. Growing up with a mother battling cancer and struggling to make ends meet, a raffle ticket changed the course of his career. Winning a mini-bike as a kid fuelled his passion for motorsport, which saw him move into a successful karting career and formula racing. His path to glory at Mount Panorama wasn't quick or easy, but for the man affectionately known as 'Frosty', his grit and determination finally saw him take out the Bathurst 1000 in 2013.  In this episode, Mark details the struggles he faced growing up, how he turned trauma and weakness into fuel for success, and how he never took no for an answer. LINKS Mark's book 'Frosty' is out now Follow Mark on Instagram Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITS Host: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Amor was just 13 months into his role U.S. Bureau Chief for 7NEWS when the World Trade Centre came down on September 11. As the only Australian journalist on the ground in New York that day, it fell on his shoulders to keep Australians updated on the tragedy unfolding in the aftermath of that horrific attack. A seasoned broadcast journalist, Mike has been a fixture of our TV screens for more than two decades. In this episode, he reveals his humble beginnings at a regional newspaper, takes us inside his first major story covering the Port Arthur Massacre, and details the toll being an international correspondent took. From reporting inside war zones, covering natural disasters and school shootings to interviewing celebrities on the red carpet, Mike Amor has done it all. Now he's giving a look behind the lens. LINKS Mike's book 'News Cowboys' is out now Follow Mike on Instagram Catch Mike Amor on 7NEWS Melbourne Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special 100th episode of Head Game, Ant speaks with Australian Army veteran Curtis McGrath. Curtis lost both his legs in an IED explosion in Afghanistan, and being his teams medic, directed his own lifesaving care as he lay bleeding in the desert. As he was airlifted out for treatment, he joked with his unit that he'd soon be at the Paralympics. Within months Curtis was trialling sports to get into, eventually settling on Para-canoe. Within four years, he was an international champion, winning Gold at three Paralympic Games and winning titles all over the world.  In this in-depth chat, Curtis talks about his reasons for joining the military, the small mistake that lead to disaster that day in Afghanistan, and the mindset he needed to win Paralympic gold. LINKS Curtis' book 'Blood, Sweat & Steel' is out now Follow Curtis on Instagram More on Paralympics Australia Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In his final year of high school, Jake Bailey thought a persistent toothache was caused by his wisdom teeth. But as his condition deteriorated, further tests revealed the horrific truth. An aggressive form of cancer was infiltrating his body, and doctors told Jake that without treatment, he'd have as little as two weeks left to live. His courageous end-of-school-year speech went viral and his story captivated his home nation of New Zealand. After going into remission, Jake studied psychology and travelled the world learning about resilience, in an effort to help young people learn how to overcome adversity. In this episode, Jake shares with Ant what having cancer taught him, and what he's learned about resilience in the years since his diagnosis. LINKS Jake's book 'The Come Back Code' is out now Follow Jake on Instagram More from Jake Bailey Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pete Murray has been a fixture of the Australian music scene for two decades. With three #1 albums and multiple hit singles under his belt, Pete this year launched his biggest tour to date - with nearly 60 shows across Australia and New Zealand. Initially planning a career in rugby union, a missed call and a string of injuries ended his sporting dreams. Pete didn't pick up a guitar until he was 23, but it sparked a passion for music that saw him propelled to the top of the charts. In this episode, Pete reveals his struggles with the success of his hit album 'Feeler', his issues dealing with a major record label and the life lessons he took away from his father's premature passing. LINKS See Pete's tour dates at PeteMurray.com Listen to 'Better Days (Pete's Version) Pete Murray's new album 'Longing' is released October 3 Listen to Pete's new single 'Home To Me' Listen to 'I Am Fire' Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producer: Damien Haffenden Managing Producer: Elle Beattie Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we recorded this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.