Leadership Odysseys

Some conversations stay with you long after the microphones turn off. This is one of them. In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, Kirsty sits down with Raj Nanra, CEO of SLE Worldwide Australia, for a powerful conversation about leadership shaped through lived experience, cultural belonging, resilience, and loss. From growing up as the child of one of Melbourne’s first Sikh families, to leading businesses across Asia for two decades, to building culture through human connection, Raj’s story reveals how leadership is built not in boardrooms alone, but in the moments where listening, empathy, and courage meet. Raj speaks openly about the devastating loss of his 21-year-old son, Sachin to cancer, and how that grief became the catalyst for purposeful action. In response, he founded the annual You Can Charity Golf Day in partnership with the Sony Foundation, mobilising his industry community to support young Australians facing cancer. Over the past four to five years, these events have raised close to $250,000 to fund youth cancer programs and provide tangible support to families during their hardest seasons. What emerges is a story of choosing to transform pain into service and leadership into something that extends far beyond business. This episode explores the human side of leadership: culture as behaviour, presence over performance, and the deep power of staying curious about people. Key Highlights Culture is built in conversation, not slogans Raj grew up learning to speak with anyone, without judgement, background bias, or status filters. That lesson still defines how he builds teams today. Culture, he believes, is not written on walls. It is shaped by daily behaviour, attention, and genuine conversation. Asia taught him how connection earns trust Twenty years across China, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and beyond taught Raj that leadership begins with curiosity. Learning names, languages, foods, and customs became a bridge to trust. His willingness to listen before leading turned short assignments into long partnerships and shaped his approach to people-first leadership. Listening is a leadership discipline Raj draws a clear line between leaders who speak and leaders who listen. He prefers presence over performance, relationship over hierarchy, and dialogue over distance. From meeting every staff member personally to prioritising uncomfortable conversations, listening became both his cultural strategy and leadership edge. Turning grief into impact The loss of his son Sachin changed everything. Supported by his industry community, Raj chose to respond with purpose rather than retreat. By founding the You Can Charity Golf Day alongside the Sony Foundation, he created a practical way to support adolescents and young adults with cancer, raising nearly $250,000 to fund programs that care for families as they walk through the most difficult chapters of life. Purpose comes from action, not sentiment For Raj, giving back is about more than fundraising totals. It is about showing up with time, care, and presence. Whether supporting families facing the long road of treatment or donating simple items that restore small moments of joy, leadership, he says, is measured by how you help when no one is watching. Raj’s odyssey reminds us that leadership is ultimately human work. Culture grows through conversation. Trust is built through listening. Purpose is forged when pain meets service. His story shows leadership matters most when leaders lift others, even while carrying their own moments of challenge. Connect with Raj Nanra: LinkedIn  Connect with SLE Worldwide Australia: Linkedin | Website Sony Foundation Australia: Website | LinkedIn | You Can Golf Day  This episode is brought to you by: Naturally Glutenfree Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website

Some stories shimmer at the surface; others reveal their depth only when you listen closely. Kellie Hush’s journey through Australian fashion has been anything but linear – from Canberra schoolgirl to magazine editor, retail founder, and now CEO of Australian Fashion Week 2025. She’s seen the glamour, the grind, and the grit behind an industry built on reinvention. In this episode, Kellie opens up about the power of resilience, the lessons hidden in failure, and the optimism that has carried her through every chapter.   Key Highlights ~ From outlier to insider. Growing up in Canberra, Kellie never quite fit in – a creative misfit who turned her difference into drive. That independence shaped her ambition and built the resilience that would define her leadership. ~ The making of a media powerhouse. From Who Weekly to InStyle to Harper’s Bazaar, Kellie built a career at the center of Australian fashion publishing, leading with clarity, curiosity, and commercial instinct during the golden era of magazines. ~ The humbling fall – and the rebuild. After leaving media to start her own accessories business, Kellie faced betrayal, burnout, and humiliation. What looked like failure became the turning point that redefined her sense of self and strength. ~ Reinvention through connection. Guided by mentors like Carla Zampatti and surrounded by a network she’d built with care, Kellie rebuilt her career as a consultant, eventually joining The Volte – a world-first fashion rental platform reshaping the circular economy. ~ Leadership with optimism. As CEO of Australian Fashion Week 2025, Kellie champions purpose over perfection. Her focus: celebrating Australian design, supporting emerging talent, and proving that optimism isn’t naivety – it’s discipline. Kellie Hush reminds us that leadership isn’t about never falling. It’s about knowing when to stand back up, what to carry forward, and what to leave behind. Her story is a testament to clarity through chaos – and the quiet power of backing yourself when no one else does.   Connect with Kellie Hush: LinkedIn  Connect with The Volte: LinkedIn | Website | Instagram  This episode is brought to you by: Flagship Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website

Some leaders build empires. Others build character. Guy Maine has done both, and rebuilt himself along the way. From launching Australia’s prepaid mobile era at Optus and leading Virgin Mobile’s turnaround, to driving Foxtel’s shift from analogue to digital and starting an aviation business, Guy’s path is full of bold moves and honest reflection. Today he brings that same energy to On The Monee, improving dignity for hospitality workers, while mentoring young Australians through the Raise Foundation. This episode isn’t about titles or exits. It’s about what stays when the rest falls away. Resilience. Courage. Clarity. And the discipline to keep showing up. Key highlights ~ The advice from his mother that shaped how he learns, works, and leads. ~ How he launched prepaid mobile in Australia and why persistence beats permission. ~ What the best leaders in his career had in common, and why humanity mattered more than authority. ~ The moment everything collapsed and how he rebuilt with grit and purpose. ~ Why mentoring through Raise gives him a sense of meaning no corporate result could match. Guy Maine’s odyssey shows that leadership is not a straight climb. It is a constant act of becoming. Thank you, Guy, for joining me on Leadership Odysseys and for showing that courage, kindness, and clarity still matter.   Connect with Guy Maine: LinkedIn   Connect with On The Monee: LinkedIn | Website  Connect with Raise: LinkedIn | Website  This episode is brought to you by: Naturally Glutenfree Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website  

After more than five decades leading some of the most complex business transformations across enterprise and government, Ken Garrard has seen it all – from billion-dollar portfolios to local government restructures that changed lives. But what stands out isn’t the scale of his projects, it’s the humanity behind them. In this conversation, Ken shares how a lifetime of systems thinking, resilience, and belief in people has shaped not only his work, but the way he lives. At 73, he’s still building, still learning, and still leading – carrying forward the dream he once shared with his late wife and proving that purpose doesn’t retire. Key Highlights ~ How a simple spreadsheet turned into a $50 billion cost saving and a new way to prioritise what matters. ~ Why cascading strategy into every role changed how people saw their purpose at work. ~ The power of mentoring and watching teams grow beyond what they thought possible. ~ What leadership truth only time can teach – patience, perspective, and the value of slowing down. ~ How legacy, not titles, defines a meaningful career. Ken’s story is a reminder that leadership isn’t about the noise or the next big thing – it’s about consistency, clarity, and care for the people around you. His life’s work shows that real success lies in building systems that work, teams that thrive, and a legacy that lasts. Connect with Ken: LinkedIn | APO Powered by KEPA Software: LinkedIn | Website  This episode is brought to you by: Cell Wellness Co Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website

Some leaders chase growth. Others build movements that last. In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, Kirsty Gee sits down with Rosy McEvedy, the founder of IV League Drips and Academy by IV League, to unpack how she turned a simple idea into a national model for integrative health. From a single clinic to a network of more than 200 licensees, Rosy shares the clarity, conviction, and discipline it takes to build something that scales with purpose. Key Highlights: See the opportunity before it’s obvious. Rosy recognised a gap in Australia’s wellness landscape and moved first to bring IV therapy into mainstream care. Lead with knowledge and intent. Her pharmaceutical training and nursing studies gave her the foundation to build credibility and trust in an unregulated space. Design systems that scale. Rosy breaks down how her licensee model—not a franchise—allows clinicians to deliver consistent, quality care while retaining ownership. Build culture into the structure. She shares why energy, belief, and alignment matter more than credentials when expanding across a national network. Stay grounded in the mission. Rosy’s focus now is depth over speed—educating, supporting, and strengthening the community she’s built. Rosy McEvedy isn’t just building a business; she’s shaping an industry. Her story shows how conviction, clarity, and structure can turn an idea into a lasting impact.   Connect with Rosy McEvedy: LinkedIn | Instagram  IV League Drips: LinkedIn | Instagram | Website  Academy by IV League: Instagram This episode is brought to you by: Naturally Glutenfree Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website

Great leaders don’t just run companies. They set the rhythm, shape the culture, and build belief. Sacha Laing has led some of Australia’s most iconic retail brands—CEO of General Pants, Group Executive at David Jones and Country Road Group, and now CEO of Adore Beauty. Beyond the titles is a leader anchored in family, clarity, and conviction. This episode looks beyond strategy. We talk about values as decision filters, the cultural clarity required to scale, and what legacy means when no one’s watching. From boardrooms to home life, Sacha brings a rare blend of consistency and heart. This conversation is leadership with substance. Highlights ~ General Pants as a defining chapter – Turning around a youth brand with edge, vision, and a clear cultural pulse ~ The human behind the title – How Sacha stays anchored to family, perspective, and personal clarity ~ Leadership that drives change – Lessons from leading major brand transformations under pressure ~ Values as a decision filter – How Sacha makes complex calls in fast-paced, high-stakes environments ~ The quiet power of consistency – Why leadership is built in the unseen moments, not just the public ones Sacha Laing doesn’t lead for applause. He leads with alignment, impact, and integrity. His story shows that real leadership comes from clarity—what you build, how you build it, and who you become in the process.   Connect with Sacha Laing: LinkedIn  Adore Beauty: LinkedIn | Website This episode is brought to you by: Cell Wellness Co Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website

She made other people famous. For more than 15 years, Carlii Lyon was the quiet force behind global names like Miranda Kerr and bestselling authors — building influence, shaping reputations, and keeping herself invisible in the process. Then came the pause. Time away to raise her two sons brought with it a brutal truth: the phone stopped ringing, the invitations disappeared, and people she thought were friends went silent. What felt like rejection turned into revelation. Many of those connections weren’t real — they were tied to her role, not to her. That silence became her cosmic filter — painful, yes, but also the start of her reinvention. In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, Carlii reveals: ~ Why waiting until you “feel ready” will keep you small — and how courage is the real catalyst for confidence. ~ The 5 P’s of personal branding every leader needs to understand. ~ How introverts can build authentic influence without pretending to be extroverts. ~ Why writing her debut book Courage to Be became her boldest act of visibility yet. This isn’t just about personal branding. It’s about losing an identity, reclaiming your voice, and daring to be seen when it would be easier to hide. Carlii’s story isn’t only her own — it’s a call to stop waiting for permission, and start choosing courage in your own life. Connect with Carlii Lyon: LinkedIn | Instagram | Website  This episode is brought to you by: Cell Wellness Co Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website

What if paying with friends could be as easy as checking out solo? In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with Cam Richardson, Founder & CEO of PaySquad, the world’s first "Buy Now, Pay Together" platform. From growing up across continents and navigating loneliness to becoming a purpose-driven founder reshaping group payments, Cam opens up about the origin story of PaySquad, the challenges of building a fintech from scratch, and the deeply human reasons behind his mission to make commerce more connected. Key Highlights ~ The Spark Behind PaySquad Cam shares how a surprise 21st birthday gift—a three-wheeled motorbike funded by friends—became the catalyst for reimagining group payments at scale. ~ The Reality of Starting From Zero We dive into the early struggles of starting a fintech with no product, no capital, and just a bold idea—and how Cam validated demand directly with merchants. ~ The Vision: Turning Checkout Into a Growth Engine Cam unpacks how PaySquad doesn’t just make it easier for people to chip in—it gives merchants a way to boost order value and acquire up to 10 new customers from a single sale. ~ Faith, Family & Founding with Intention From building a startup while raising three young kids to practicing “confrontational love” with his trusted community, Cam shares the rhythms and rituals that keep him grounded. ~ Words of Wisdom for Future Founders Cam reflects on the power of patience, the myth of the overnight success, and why readiness matters more than speed when it comes to leadership. This conversation is a reminder that great businesses often start with a deeply personal insight—and that leadership, at its core, is about creating something that makes life better for others. Whether you're a founder, a future builder, or simply someone who believes the world is better when we do things together, Cam’s story will leave you inspired to chase your vision with both courage and care. Connect with Cam Richardson: LinkedIn  Paysquad: Linkedin | Instagram | Website  This episode is brought to you by: Flagship Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website  

Wilson Poon doesn’t just build businesses, he builds trust. From his early days as a software engineer to founding Whitetower Digital and co-founding MemberPulse, Wilson’s journey has been marked by sharp strategy, deep integrity, and a human-first approach to innovation. In this candid and compelling conversation, Wilson shares how he’s grown multiple businesses, sold a company, navigated failure, and led with quiet clarity all while helping others bring their visions to life. Whether you’re building your first startup or scaling your tenth, this episode is a masterclass in doing business with intention, value, and genuine care. Key Highlights ~ The moment Wilson walked away from a corporate tech job and began rewriting the rules of his own career. From a 2.5-hour commute to Dell, to discovering the world of startups and agency life — Wilson’s pivot point reveals the power of listening to your gut and trusting your own pace. ~ How Wilson built — and sold — a branding agency by identifying niche, scalable market demand. Wilson shares how he spotted opportunity in off-the-plan property developments, built recurring revenue, and made a strategic exit just before the COVID crash. ~ The realities of running multiple companies — and why clarity of purpose is non-negotiable. With Whitetower now a mature agency and MemberPulse his rising SaaS venture, Wilson opens up about how he structures his energy, delegates with trust, and prioritizes long-term value over short-term gains. ~ Lessons from a failed activewear startup — and why failure builds deeper insight than any course ever could. Wilson and his wife launched an activewear brand during COVID. It didn’t work. But the lessons — from supply chains to marketing to content strategy — now shape how he advises clients every day. ~ Why Wilson believes in “Hitch-style” consulting — showing up, solving real problems, and then disappearing. Inspired by the movie Hitch, Wilson has built a service model rooted in loyalty, transparency, and enablement. His goal? Help clients win, without becoming a bottleneck or chasing unnecessary scope. Wilson Poon’s story is a refreshing reminder that success isn’t about hype — it’s about helping others win, one honest conversation at a time. His entrepreneurial journey spans tech, branding, SaaS, and strategy — but what remains constant is his refusal to overpromise and his commitment to solving problems that actually matter. For any founder, leader, or builder feeling the pressure to do it all, Wilson’s clarity, calmness, and care offer a new blueprint: build slower, build better, and always build with heart. Connect with Wilson Poon: LinkedIn  Member Pulse: LinkedIn | Website  Whitetower: LinkedIn | Website  This episode is brought to you by: Flagship Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website

Michael Ragavan was born in Australia to parents who had fled genocide in Sri Lanka, arriving with little more than resilience, hope, and an unshakable belief in opportunity. That belief would become the foundation for Our Leg Up, a bold venture reimagining home equity as a tool not just for building wealth, but for widening the path to ownership and opportunity. In this conversation, Michael shares the grit it took to challenge the system, the years spent learning the rules well enough to rewrite them, and why innovation and fairness must go hand in hand if we want to change the future of wealth in Australia. Key Highlights ~ From family sacrifice to founder’s vision – How his parents’ escape from genocide in Sri Lanka shaped his worldview and gave him a deep understanding of financial insecurity and opportunity. ~ Reimagining home equity – Why Our Leg Up is more than a financial product; it’s a new category designed to help aspiring homeowners buy years sooner and give existing owners a way to put their equity to work. ~ Fighting “impossible” – The candid reality of being told no by banks, lawyers, and advisors and the relentless persistence it takes to turn a system-wide “no” into a workable “yes.” ~ Learning the rules to change them – The years Michael spent in the trenches studying regulations himself, developing the expertise to create a compliant and scalable model where none existed before. ~ Purpose as fuel – Why anchoring his business in fairness, inclusion, and real human impact has been the most resilient driver through setbacks and long timelines. Michael’s story is a reminder that change rarely comes from those who accept the rules as they are; it comes from those willing to challenge them, learn them, and rewrite them for a fairer future. Our Leg Up is still in its early chapters, but its potential to reshape the way Australians think about wealth, ownership, and opportunity is already clear. This is more than a business story, it’s a blueprint for purpose-driven innovation in one of the country’s most entrenched systems.   Connect with Michael Ragavan: LinkedIn  Our Leg Up: LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website  This episode is brought to you by: Naturally Glutenfree  Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website

Nearly two years on, we’re thrilled to replay Episode  1 of Leadership Odysseys with Simon Molnar. Simon’s path from weekend shifts in his parents’ jewellery store to helping drive Afterpay’s surge and now reinventing in-store retail with Flagship encapsulates everything our mantra, 'Embrace the Journey,' stands for. Press play to hear the lessons, pivots, and breakthroughs that shaped his leadership—and reignite your own sense of possibility. Key Highlights ~ Retail Roots & Side Hustle: How early weekends selling Pandora on eBay lit Simon’s entrepreneurial spark and paved the way for Australia’s largest pure‑play jewellery site. ~ From Code to Commerce: Why Simon traded high‑paying gigs for a steep software‑engineering learning curve and how that technical fluency unlocked new business possibilities. ~ Fueling Afterpay’s Ascent: The “help us help you” campaign that flipped Afterpay’s pipeline from outbound hustle to viral inbound momentum and what it teaches about customer‑led growth. ~ Pivot with Purpose: Facing a six‑figure hardware setback at Flagship, Simon leaned into tough feedback, rallied his team, and invented a platform now powering retailers worldwide. ~ Leadership & Well‑Being: Why treating mental recharge as seriously as physical recovery and building a culture of open vulnerability became Simon’s secret weapon for sustaining performance. Simon Molnar’s journey demonstrates that true leadership is never linear; it’s forged through bold experiments, smart pivots, and unwavering self-care. Whether you’re scaling your first venture or steering a global team, let these insights inspire you to lean into uncertainty and lead with both courage and compassion.   Connect with Simon Molnar: LinkedIn  Connect with Flagship: Website | LinkedIn This episode is brought to you by: Naturally Glutenfree  Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website

In this deeply human episode of Leadership Odysseys, Kirsty sits down with Michelle Brenton—clinical naturopath, nutritionist, herbalist, personal trainer, and founder of Cell Wellness Co for a conversation that goes far beyond supplements and health advice. Michelle shares the evolution of her 20+ year career in the wellness space: from running health food stores and clinics to co-creating Cell Charge, a globally trusted micronutrient supplement. But beyond the titles and ventures is a story of burnout, healing, reinvention, and the courage to slow down. Together, we explore what it means to truly listen to your body, why rest is an act of resilience, and how we can protect our health in an increasingly toxic world. It’s a conversation rooted in honesty about motherhood, business, ambition, and the cost of pushing too far.   KEY HIGHLIGHTS Trading Perfection for Presence Michelle shares how pneumonia and total exhaustion forced her to stop and start again. Her story reveals the strength in surrender and the importance of building a life that honours the body, not just the goals. The Origin Story of Cell Charge Discover how a unique micronutrient concentrate, developed for patients who had run out of options, grew into a product trusted by thousands. Michelle explains the science behind Cell Charge and why it's become a daily foundation for so many. The Power of Letting Go After selling their home and packing life into a caravan, Michelle and her family spent nearly four years on the road. The realisation? That freedom isn’t found in more, but in less. Discipline vs. Wholeness From extreme discipline to deep recalibration, Michelle discusses why her greatest strength was learning when to stop. This insight is especially powerful for high performers on the edge of burnout. A Whole-Body Approach to Modern Health From gut health and nutrient absorption to environmental stressors and soil depletion, Michelle breaks down the invisible load we carry—and how to support the body with simplicity, intention, and curiosity.   Why this episode matters: Michelle’s odyssey is a masterclass in tuning into your body, your purpose, and the pace that’s right for you. Whether you’re navigating burnout, chasing big dreams, or simply looking to live more intention, this episode will meet you right where you are—and invite you to slow down, soften, and honour what matters most. Connect with Michelle Brenton:  LinkedIn | Instagram Cell Wellness Co: Website | Instagram Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website This episode is brought to you by: Naturally Glutenfree | Airwallex

In this profound episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with transformational coach Linda Wallace, whose journey spans global leadership roles, a personal reckoning, and a deep return to self. Once climbing the ranks of major corporate brands, Linda hit burnout—mentally, physically, and emotionally. But instead of pushing through, she paused. And in that pause, everything changed. Today, Linda helps others step into lives of alignment, clarity, and embodied leadership, not through titles or hustle, but through deep listening, inner safety, and somatic awareness. This episode is a masterclass in self-leadership. A call to let go of who the world told you to be and step into who you truly are. Episode Highlights: “Anxiety is loud. Intuition is quiet.” — Linda unpacks the difference between fear-based urgency and grounded self-trust, revealing how true direction is often quiet, not performative. Purpose isn’t a title. It’s how you show up. — We explore how redefining purpose away from job titles and towards values-led daily action can radically reshape your life. Our brains are wired for safety, not happiness. — Linda shares the neuroscience behind fear, why we default to the familiar (even if it hurts), and how to build courage through gentle, embodied awareness. Leadership from clarity, not speed. — We challenge modern leadership norms that celebrate fast decisions and visible output, and explore the power of pause, attunement, and emotional regulation. The moment she stopped performing and started listening. — Linda shares the pivotal moment that changed everything—and why being honest with herself was the bravest leadership decision she’s ever made. This episode is for anyone who’s ever questioned the pace, the pressure, or the path they’re on. Linda Wallace reminds us that leadership is not about how loudly we speak, but how deeply we listen. If you’ve been searching for clarity, connection, or courage, this is the conversation your soul’s been waiting for. Connect with Linda Wallace: LinkedIn | Instagram | Website Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website This episode is brought to you by: The Beauty Chef | Naturally Glutenfree

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we’re joined by Claudine Ogilvie, an executive and entrepreneur who’s spent over two decades at the intersection of technology, transformation, and leadership. From her time as CIO at Jetstar and Ridley Corporation to board roles with Cuscal and Scyne Advisory, Claudine has built a career shaped by curiosity, courage, and bold transitions. Today, she’s the founder and CEO of HivePix, a data orchestration platform improving transparency and trust across the supply chain. We dive into the mindset behind leaving corporate leadership to build something new, how to navigate complexity without losing clarity, and why empathy, ethics, and innovation must go hand in hand in the age of AI. This is a conversation about technology, yes—but also about purpose, progress, and leading with integrity in a rapidly evolving world. Key Highlights: ~ The Leap into Entrepreneurship: Claudine shares what it took to step away from big business and start HivePix—and the gap in supply chain data she’s now solving. ~ Courageous Career Shifts: We explore how to know when it’s time to pivot, what holds leaders back, and why reinvention requires more belief than certainty. ~ Complexity and Clarity: Claudine offers lessons from leading large-scale transformation at Jetstar, including how to align teams, stay grounded, and make decisions when the path isn’t obvious. ~ The Future of Responsible Tech: A thoughtful look at AI, quantum computing, and the urgent need to build technology with trust, ethics, and inclusion at the core. ~ Act First, Think Differently: Inspired by a quote from Herminia Ibarra, Claudine reflects on how doing—more than thinking—reshapes how we lead and who we become. Claudine Ogilvie’s journey is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about staying in your lane, it’s about learning, leaping, and building what you believe the world needs. Whether you’re navigating a career pivot or shaping the future of tech, this episode offers grounded insight and inspiration for embracing change with clarity and conviction. Connect with Claudine Ogilvie: LinkedIn | Website  Connect with HivePix: LinkedIn | Website  Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website This episode is brought to you by: Thebeautychef | Flagship

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with Raf Adams, global thought leader and creator of The Suited Monk philosophy. Raf shares the profound personal journey that led him from corporate success in global shipping to emotional burnout, and ultimately, to founding a global leadership movement that’s helped thousands of executives and organisations around the world. Through his signature framework, distinguishing between the Suit (external success) and the Monk (inner self), Raf teaches us how to identify the gap between who we are and who we’ve been conditioned to be. If you’ve ever achieved success and still felt like something was missing, this conversation is for you. ~ The Gap Between the Suit and the Monk Raf explains how early conditioning and people-pleasing create a split between our outward identity and inner truth and how this hidden gap affects performance, well-being, and fulfilment. ~ The Wake-Up Call From chronic fatigue at 24 to being laid off during the 2008 financial crisis, Raf shares how his own journey forced him to stop chasing external validation and begin listening to his inner Monk. ~ The Three-Step Suited Monk Methodology Raf outlines his transformative model that starts by reconnecting with self-awareness, then clearing emotional blockages, and finally aligning external achievement with personal purpose. ~ Making Suited Monk Decisions He reveals how true freedom and fulfilment come from making decisions that honour both your intuition and your responsibilities integrating the Monk first, then the Suit. ~ The Power of Slowing Down Raf explains why meditation isn’t always the answer—and how awareness can be found in silence, reflection, and choosing truth over noise. Raf’s journey is a powerful reminder that success without alignment is never sustainable. The most courageous path we can take is the one that brings us back to ourselves. Whether you’re a founder, executive, or simply someone seeking more meaning in your work and life, this episode offers clarity, depth, and an invitation to tune inward. Start your own journey home by taking The Suited Monk Life Review Quiz, a free reflection tool designed to help you reconnect with your inner Monk and realign with what truly matters: 👉 www.suitedmonk.com/quiz Connect with Raf Adams: LinkedIn  The Suited Monk: LinkedIn | Instagram | Website | You Tube Video Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website This episode is brought to you by: Thebeautychef | Airwallex

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with Alan Shields—entrepreneur, board advisor, speaker, and co-founder of RFI Global. With over two decades of experience scaling a two-person startup into a global data insights powerhouse, Alan shares his leadership journey, the importance of storytelling, and what it really takes to build a business that lasts. From physics to financial services, Alan’s path is grounded in curiosity, strategic thinking, and a clear passion for helping others grow. Whether you’re an aspiring founder, a team leader, or someone navigating your next big leap, this episode is filled with practical wisdom you’ll want to carry forward. Key Insights from Alan’s Odyssey: ~ Curiosity is the foundation of great leadership. Alan explains why curiosity can’t be taught—and why it’s the single most important trait he looks for when hiring and mentoring. ~ Storytelling is a leadership superpower. With over 3,000 presentations under his belt, Alan shares how he structures compelling narratives using the SCQA method—situation, complication, question, and answer. ~ Build the right team, not just a big one. From day one at RFI, Alan focused on diverse, values-aligned talent. The result? A high-performing global team with over 24 nationalities—driven by curiosity, not just credentials. ~ Founders don’t have to do it all. Alan opens up about the moment he realised he wasn’t the right person to take RFI Global to the next level—and why self-awareness is a core part of leadership. ~ Startup lessons are meant to be shared. From writing The Startup Handbook to mentoring emerging founders, Alan reflects on why giving back is now central to his purpose. Alan’s odyssey is a masterclass in scaling with heart, humility, and clarity. His approach to leadership—grounded in thoughtful reflection and bold decision-making—is a reminder that success isn’t just about building big, it’s about building well. Whether you’re on day one or year ten of your own journey, Alan’s story will leave you inspired to ask better questions, back yourself, and lead with intent. Connect with Alan Shields: LinkedIn | RFI Global Website | The Startup Handbook Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website This episode is brought to you by: Thebeautychef | Airwallex

In this extraordinary episode of the Leadership Odysseys podcast, we step into the world of Jim Frecklington MVO, OAM—Australia’s master royal coach builder and the man behind some of the most iconic ceremonial carriages in modern history. From the rural fields of Peak Hill, NSW, to the grand halls of Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, Jim’s journey is a testament to passion, craftsmanship, and courageous leadership. He has built not one, but three royal coaches—each an intricate fusion of tradition, symbolism, and vision. As he opens the doors of his workshop to share his story, we’re reminded that leadership can be quiet, purposeful, and deeply legacy-driven.   In this episode, you’ll discover: ~ The inspiration behind Jim’s lifelong pursuit of building carriages fit for royalty—rooted in art, history, and heart. ~ How he assembled a global team of master artisans to create time capsules of British and Commonwealth history. ~ The resilience it takes to build something truly lasting—mortgaging his home, battling cancer, and continuing to create with unwavering commitment. ~ Why preserving craftsmanship matters now more than ever in an increasingly digital world. ~ His reflections on riding with Queen Elizabeth II, honoring the fallen of Dunkirk, and designing a masterpiece for King Charles III—an entirely hand-built, history-laden carriage that will one day carry future kings, including Prince William and Prince George, and be treasured as one of the most significant artistic and cultural creations of our time. This is more than an interview. It’s a window into legacy-making at its finest. Jim Frecklington doesn’t just build coaches—he tells stories in motion, stories that will outlive all of us. His humility, wisdom, and quiet courage will leave you moved, inspired, and reminded that some of the greatest leaders are those who choose to leave something beautiful behind.   Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website This episode is brought to you by: Naturally Glutenfree  | Airwallex

In this powerful episode of Leadership Odysseys, Kirsty sits down with Robyn Saranah—Executive General Manager at Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand and former National GM of Commonwealth Private. Robyn is not only a leader in finance but a lifelong champion for social impact and financial empowerment, especially for women. From growing up in a small country town to leading change across some of Australia’s most respected institutions, her journey is rich with insight, resilience, and heart. We explore the mindset shifts that shaped her, the importance of building agency through financial independence, and why vulnerability and courage are essential for modern leadership. Key Insights from the Episode: ~ Resilience is built at the edge Robyn shares that growth happens when we challenge ourselves at our “development edge”—those moments of discomfort that lead to real transformation, not just in leadership but in life. ~ Financial literacy is not about money—it’s about choice She reframes financial independence as a form of freedom, agency, and power. Whether you’re raising a family, building a business, or navigating change, knowing how to manage money is fundamental to self-determination. ~ You don’t need a title to be a leader Robyn dismantles traditional definitions of leadership, reminding us that influence comes from how we show up, ask questions, build trust, and create safety for others, not just from a job title. ~ Surround yourself with “treasures” From mentors to challengers, Robyn encourages all leaders to build an inner circle of truth-tellers—people who know your values and will hold you accountable when you're out of alignment. ~ Kindness is a strategy, not softness One of Robyn’s most profound messages: enter every relationship with the mindset of “how can I help?” The universe has a way of showing up when you do—and this generosity builds deeper community and lasting impact. Robyn’s odyssey reminds us that leadership is not a ladder—it’s a layered, evolving journey grounded in curiosity, courage, and connection. Whether you're navigating your first leadership role or building your legacy, this conversation is a masterclass in leading with purpose and humanity. Her call to action? Start small, ask the big questions, and never underestimate the power of asking for help. Connect with Robyn: LinkedIn  Good Shepherd Australia and New Zealand: LinkedIn | Website Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website This episode is brought to you by: Thebeautychef | Naturally Glutenfree  | Airwallex

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, I sit down with Caterina (Cat) Embersic-Dunne—a dynamic executive coach, lecturer, and leadership expert who brings an unconventional yet highly effective approach to coaching: play. Through her work and doctoral research, Cat has pioneered the integration of play into leadership and team development, helping individuals unlock creativity, foster resilience, and navigate challenges with a fresh perspective. Key Highlights:  ~ The Power of Play in Leadership – How Cat uses play methods to drive innovation, connection, and learning within teams. ~ The Crossroads Moment – Why Cat made the bold decision to pivot her career and lean into coaching full-time. ~ The Art of Self-Reflection – How embracing self-awareness and holding things lightly can lead to sustainable success. ~ Redefining Leadership – Challenging traditional leadership models and why it’s not just about titles but about influence, relationships, and accountability. ~ Cooking, Coaching & Martial Arts – How Cat’s experience as a chef on The Chef’s Line and her journey to a second-degree Black Belt have shaped her approach to leadership. Cat’s insights are a powerful reminder that leadership is not about rigid structures—it’s about adaptability, creativity, and the courage to explore new ways of thinking. Whether you’re leading a team, navigating change, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you with a renewed perspective on what it truly means to embrace the journey.   Connect with Cat Embersic-Dunne: LinkedIn | Website  Centre of Coaching in Organisations: LinkedIn Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website This episode is brought to you by: Thebeautychef | Naturally Glutenfree  | Flagship

What does it take to truly embrace your journey when the world questions your place in it? In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, I sit down with Suzan Mutesi—an actress, award-winning fashion designer, author, and influencer whose story is one of relentless reinvention. From growing up in Uganda during the civil war to building a life and career in Australia, Suzan’s journey has been anything but conventional. She opens up about navigating the entertainment and fashion industries, the challenges of being in the public eye, and the resilience it takes to keep going when criticism is louder than applause. Most importantly, she shares a powerful message on self-love, authenticity, and the courage to keep showing up. This conversation is real, raw, and deeply inspiring—one that will leave you reflecting on what it means to embrace who you are, unapologetically. Key Takeaways 🌀 The Power of Reinvention – Suzan’s journey proves that you don’t have to fit into one box. From fashion to acting to writing, she’s embraced every opportunity that came her way. 🌀 "I Deserve to Be Here" – Suzan shares the emotional reality of self-doubt and public scrutiny, and how she reminds herself that she has earned her place. 🌀 Authenticity is Your Superpower – A powerful lesson on why staying true to yourself—even when misunderstood—is the key to long-term success. 🌀 Navigating the Media and Public Criticism – Suzan opens up about what it’s like to be in the headlines, how she processes negativity, and why she refuses to let external opinions define her. 🌀 Love, Relationships & Finding Your Person – Why Suzan believes that life isn’t meant to be done alone and the importance of finding someone who truly sees you. Suzan’s story is a reminder that resilience is built in the moments no one sees—the tears before stepping onto a red carpet, the silent self-doubt before hitting ‘post,’ and the courage to keep going even when the world questions your worth. Her journey isn’t just about success; it’s about embracing every chapter—no matter how messy, misunderstood, or unexpected. Connect with Suzan: LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok  Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram This episode is brought to you by: Flagship | Thebeautychef