Kintsugi Heroes: Uncovering our Hidden Value

Born in Melbourne, Jamie faced adoption and an early ADHD diagnosis, but found solace and focus through sports, especially tennis and soccer.When he was six, Jamie moved to Alice Springs with his adoptive mother. Despite a rough environment, sports remained his constant anchor. He excelled in tennis, earning a sports scholarship and turning pro at 16. However, intense pressure led to burnout and eventual withdrawal at 18. Jamie’s first major burnout sparked a journey of self-discovery. He returned to university, then business school, influenced by his socially active father.Entering the tech world, Jamie thrived quickly relocating to San Francisco to expand operations. The success was thrilling, but burnout struck again. Post-tech burnout, Jamie turned to buying and selling small businesses, founding a brokerage. But another burnout pushed him to reassess his path.Multiple burnouts led Jamie to explore "flow," an optimal state for peak performance. He used diverse methods like yoga, breathwork, and ice baths. Reframing ADHD as a strength, Jamie founded Flo Jo, a coaching program to help entrepreneurs harness their neurodivergence for fulfilment and success.Jamie’s struggles with anxiety and depression fuel his advocacy for mental health, pushing for authentic communication and embracing one’s unique path. Jamie now focuses on writing, public speaking, and helping ADHD entrepreneurs. He seeks authentic connections, meaningful work, and a balanced life journey.*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Ben’s passion for music was sparked early, paving the way to his musical journey. He was inspired by childhood road trips, family music collections blending classical and popular tunes. Ben’s academic path intertwined with creative pursuits of music and theatre when he attended ANU in Canberra before furthering his studies at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver. In 2004, Ben jumped into the music scene, playing with various bands. These experiences honed his skills and later on fuelled his ambition for solo projects. Ben’s first songwriting effort came during a tumultuous relationship while studying in Canada, turning emotional highs and lows into a creative outlet.At 41, Ben’s ADHD diagnosis brought clarity to his mental health challenges, particularly around rejection-sensitive dysphoria, reframing his past experiences and boosting his self-awareness.From Nirvana in adolescence to band gigs, music continuously served as Ben’s personal therapy, helping him manage life’s ups and downs. Through merging music, theatre, and social justice, Ben recognised the therapeutic power of storytelling. He is dedicated to aiding marginalised communities through shared artistic experiences.Although he contemplated a corporate job, Ben followed his passion for music and in 2024, he committed to a long-term sustainable career where he expresses his creativity and authenticity. Ben’s music extends beyond performance, aiming to create inclusive spaces for dialogue and personal advocacy. He also supports mental health charities through his work.Focused on fostering deep connections with his audience, Ben strives for a meaningful career. “Squirrel Brains and Growing Pains” hints at new, innovative community-centred projects on the horizon.*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Gary grew up curious and spirited, always eager to solve problems. He discovered his innate passion for helping others early on in his life.He studied business and economics and combined academic rigor with practical insights, eventually earning a doctorate. Gary entered the automotive industry, quickly rising through the ranks and became known for his strategic mind and empathy.He met and married Leanne, a partnership built on love, trust, and mutual support. Their journey soon faced unexpected challenges when Leanne was diagnosed with limb girdle muscular dystrophy. Gary took on caregiving, balancing roles with determination and dedication. He compares caregiving to a marathon and highlighted the emotional, physical, and mental challenges it entails. Gary was Invited to join Carers Australia's board, eventually becoming vice-president. Where he played a crucial role in policy shaping at the national level. After shifting to senior leadership roles in not-for-profits and academia, he also became an adjunct professorship at Deakin Business School.Gary spearheaded the Carer Gateway initiative, providing essential resources and support for carers across Australia. He believes in honesty, readiness to ask for help, and the power of education and advocates for the intrinsic value and recognition of carers.*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

This month, Kintsugi Heroes is sharing episodes from other podcasts we've created to address different stages of adversity. You may not realise, but Kintsugi Heroes is a podcast network with many stories to listen to, watch and share.This week, you'll hear a preview of the "Humans of HOPE: Inspiring Stories with Kerrie Atherton". With the support of Kintsugi Heroes, Kerrie chats to people from every background and country about their stories of trauma, vulnerability, resilience and recovery. At the end of the day, we all need a story of hope.If you enjoyed this episode, select from the platforms below and subscribe to the podcast.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/humans-of-hope-inspiring-stories-with-kerrie-atherton/id1764300001Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4KjaVYE816RCTToqHf7UArAmazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/7a8f5e7e-39f7-42c1-9b3c-ab1feb6ec4d5/humans-of-hope-inspiring-stories-with-kerrie-athertonYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvWGYmXsM8BBBny7U9R-0P94uItNy3oQF*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This month, Kintsugi Heroes is sharing episodes from other podcasts we've created to address different stages of adversity. You may not realise, but Kintsugi Heroes is a podcast network with many stories to listen to, watch and share.This week, you'll hear a preview of the "Connecting Seniors (Kintsugi Heroes)", a Limited Series that focuses on our senior community in Australia. Having lived long lives with many trials and tribulations, their experience and insights are helpful for everyone and creates a strong social connection with an otherwise disparate elderly population.If you enjoyed this episode, select from the platforms below and subscribe to the podcast.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/connecting-seniors-kintsugi-heroes/id1771676820Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5BxAKIiNlaAbsDCz7dZdxNAmazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c990b72a-13b3-4da7-90cc-747c7a4d6440/connecting-seniors-kintsugi-heroesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvWGYmXsM8BBt4r2j41ezPJXlnq_QwtRa*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This month, Kintsugi Heroes is sharing episodes from other podcasts we've created to address different stages of adversity. You may not realise, but Kintsugi Heroes is a podcast network with many stories to listen to, watch and share.This week, you'll hear a preview of the "Australian Carers (Kintsugi Heroes)", a limited podcast series run over Mental Health Week in October that shared stories of volunteer carers in Australia, the obstacles they face and the resilience they need to persist.If you enjoyed this episode, select from the platforms below and subscribe to the podcast.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/australian-carers-kintsugi-heroes/id1770734012Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38pCXjjLDQyl78gH35F3YZAmazon Music: https://music.amazon.de/podcasts/e0740995-93ce-47bd-8ba6-14d9277bb2bb/australian-carers-kintsugi-heroesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvWGYmXsM8BD6uTdtHHUlKmc5QSXYZzYB*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This month, Kintsugi Heroes is sharing episodes from other podcasts we've created to address different stages of adversity. You may not realise, but Kintsugi Heroes is a podcast network with many stories to listen to, watch and share.This week, you'll hear a preview of the "Beyond The Deluge: Flood Resilience Stories from the Hunter Valley" podcast covering stories of survival during the floods that wracked Broke and the Hunter Valley during 2022.If you enjoyed this episode, select from the platforms below and subscribe to the podcast.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-deluge-flood-resilience-stories-from/id1744901037Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6AAeiPHWZOV377pb5poMTUAmazon Music: https://music.amazon.de/podcasts/d33e04d3-6d7f-438b-a35d-704182be7347/beyond-the-deluge-flood-resilience-stories-from-the-hunter-valleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvWGYmXsM8BDGXkr_WaTfAeWIxMTDZ483*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This month, Kintsugi Heroes is sharing episodes from other podcasts we've created to address different stages of adversity. You may not realise, but Kintsugi Heroes is a podcast network with many stories to listen to, watch and share.This week, you'll hear a preview of the "Kintsugi Heroes - Alpine Series" podcast covering stories of resilience during and after the bushfires that ravaged the Alpine Region in 2019/2020.If you enjoyed this episode, select from the platforms below and subscribe to the podcast.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kintsugi-heroes-alpine-series/id1705701521Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0rTIV6JL786Ql0IB4BLG3MAmazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/7d7eb2d6-8aab-490a-a7b9-b4e1c1b3eb67/kintsugi-heroes---alpine-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvWGYmXsM8BBz1ajxD6PrQ2fy-z7upiwY*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

Born and raised in the UK, Adam led a relatively routine life, growing up in a close-knit community. He pursued studies in business, where he honed his skills in management and leadership. He then embarked on a successful career in the business sector, becoming known as a reliable and innovative leader.Adam met his future wife, Anna, in a nightclub in the UK, sparking a love that would lead to a nurturing and adventurous partnership. Together, they raised two children, Noah and Manon, balancing family life with their busy professional careers.In 2017, tragedy struck when Anna was diagnosed with bladder cancer, abruptly changing their family dynamics. Anna passed 14 months after her diagnosis, leaving Adam to navigate single parenthood and the emotional toll on their young children.Inspired by Anna, Adam founded Beat Bladder Cancer Australia, focusing on support and awareness for bladder cancer patients.Late, he met Catherine, forming a blended family and learning to balance past grief with newfound joy.At 54, Adam's professional life  has flourished with consulting and charity work, while he embraces personal growth and future adventures.*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Tim started as an IT salesman for Fujitsu, receiving a computer as payment from a cash-strapped client. This unforeseen twist sparked his interest in programming. After getting the computer, Tim self-taught programming and database skills. He used these newfound abilities to develop systems for selling scuba gear.Tim's adventurous spirit led him into the scuba gear business. Despite initial success, a business dispute forced him to exit, demonstrating his resilience.Tim next worked in illegal casinos in South Africa. This unconventional job matched his thrill-seeking nature. Seeking new horizons, Tim transitioned into the music industry before realizing his true passion lay elsewhere, prompting him to pursue formal computing education.Tim met his future wife at a programming college. Their shared ambition eventually took them to Australia in 2001, initially for a short-term experience for Asian exposure but chose to settle permanently in Australia after having children, opting for a stable environment away from South Africa.Compulsory military service during South African conflicts in Angola and Namibia traumatized Tim, affecting his emotional responses for years. Soldiers' dark humour was a coping mechanism.Struggling with old traumas, Tim had a significant emotional breakthrough at his aunt's funeral. This led to a gradual emotional awareness and self-reflection journey.Embracing mindfulness and meditation, Tim learned to live in the present. His aspirations now focus on meaningful relationships and continuing his personal growth with loved ones and living near to the water, providing him with a sense of peace, tranquility, and balance in his life.*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Alex's parents were displaced WWII refugees from Europe, eventually moving to Australia where Alex was born in the 1960s. She faced cultural and language barriers growing up.Because she started school at eight and a half, Alex missed the early formative years. She attended irregularly, faced integration challenges, and was labelled as a slow learner. This led to significant educational hardships.Introduced to narcotics in high school, Alex used substances to cope, which led to deeper addiction issues. Despite this, she completed her secondary education and enrolled in TAFE.Immersed in the drug culture, Alex moved to a communal farm and later Sydney’s Kings Cross, where she faced addiction, crime, and survival struggles. She experienced close bonds as well as significant losses.Alex endured trauma from losing partners to drugs and arrests for criminal activities. A pivotal arrest and subsequent miscarriage marked rock bottom for her and propelled her towards change.Determined to reinvent herself, Alex pursued her education, acquiring degrees in forensic medicine and mental health. She focused on understanding trauma and healing. Alex now travels globally, sharing her story of survival and transformation. She runs a private practice, has written a book, and enjoys her role as a grandmother to her five grandchildren.*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Raised in Brisbane, Filipe’s parents immigrated to Australia from Portugal, driven by the allure of "Skippy the Bush Kangaroo," grounding his understanding of belonging and community from an early age.Filipe’s family, especially his mother, supported him through his dyslexia, teaching him resilience and fostering his self-confidence despite academic challenges.At 17, a formative trip to Cambodia opened Filipe’s eyes to the struggles of an orphanage, igniting his passion for sustainable community service and support models. When he was 19, Filipe founded a non-profit providing medical services in Cambodia and Vietnam, demonstrating his commitment to community service and blending this with his business acumen.Dyslexia forced Filipe to be innovative and persistent. It became a strength, helping him develop self-confidence and comfort in public speaking through creative problem-solving.Early in his career, Filipe worked with the Australian Red Cross in emergency services and in statutory out-of-home care for children, expanding his experience in direct community support. To gain insights from high-performing organizations, Filipe joined Sonder, an Australian startup, learning the importance of planning, communication, and execution in organizational success.Over the past six months, Filipe dedicated himself to listening to mentors, mentees, and community members, understanding their needs and the universal craving for a sense of belonging. As CEO of a small organization, Filipe navigates the heavy responsibility of ensuring operational stability while striving to make a meaningful impact on men's mental health.Filipe’s vision includes redefining societal perceptions of masculinity, promoting vulnerability and emotional honesty, and employing practical mental health strategies like outdoor activities to support well-being.Socials:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/filipegamaesilvaWebsite: https://mentoring.men/*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Born in the UK in 1952, Bob's early life was tough. He was premature, had a volatile relationship with his mother and was often bullied at school, he shares these formative experiences.He began as an engineering apprentice but found his true calling in music. Bob played music on boats during pub nights, entertaining the passengers. Moving to Australia in 1989 Bob's music career flourished. Quitting his engineering job marked a pivotal turn, as Australia became a fertile ground for his musical pursuits.Deeply influenced by bands like the Berkshire Ramblers and Kelpie, Bob found his heart truly resonates with folk and Irish music, genres that he passionately embraces to this day.Bob's music career highlights include diverse performances, crowned by a remarkable show for Prince Charles in 1993, showcasing his versatile artistry.A heartfelt song dedicated to his son, an aerospace engineer now. "Sonny's Dream" encapsulates the emotional distance yet profound love in their father-son relationship.For Bob, music isn't just sound but a therapeutic tool. He believes in the healing power of sharing stories and emotions, a simple yet powerful form of recovery. Committed to emotional connection, Bob uses song as a storytelling vehicle, believing “Feelings are healings” and emphasizing simplicity in both life and music.Motivated by deeply personal experiences, Bob’s mission is to eradicate suicide. He challenges conventional views on mental health, advocating for self-awareness and heart-centred healing. After a near-death experience in 2008, leading to profound self-discovery and healing, Bob’s life philosophy revolves around simplicity and integrity. He shares his belief in a collective human evolution and his privilege in witnessing the rise of integrity over power. Despite severe health challenges like depression and prostate cancer, Bob trusts in natural remedies and his body's healing power, demonstrating his resilient and holistic approach to life.*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Gina McClement has a story of resilience and her dedication to healing and helping others. She grew up in a structured, education-centric environment, which fostered critical thinking, but as a child, she experienced a high conflict separation between her parents.Despite a privileged education, Gina grew up with undiagnosed ADHD not receiving a diagnosis until her early forties. Her early challenges influenced her empathy and insight into the neurodiverse experiences of her clients.Gina has undergone over 25 years of therapy which allowed her to connect deeply with herself and recognise the power of healing.Gina achieved significant success in marketing and sports marketing. However, after a 20-year corporate career and the challenges of motherhood she experienced burnout. So Gina flipped and followed her passion, founding Living In Bloom, a private mind therapy practice where her client promise is - "Grow Into You." In her practice Gina focuses on neurodiverse individuals. She emphasises relational healing, attachment theory, and the impact of early childhood experiences. Gina is driven by her belief, that it is everyone's right to love themselves wholeheartedly, and she walks alongside her clients who are on this journey. BiographyGina's holds a Master in Counselling, a Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and a Bachelor of Business. She is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, an Advanced Clinical Resource Therapist and Trainer as well as a Meditation Teacher and member of the Australian ADHD Professionals Association. Primarily she practices psychodynamic psychotherapy with a focus on neurodiversity and is LGBTQIA+ affirming. What truly brings value to her clients' is her commitment to her craft, her Lived Experience and unwavering belief that healing is not only possible but a human right. Gina practices face to face and via telehealth across Australia and New Zealand. She works with people aged 17+ and with parents raising children with ADHD.Social Media:https://livinginbloom.com.au/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginamcclement/https://www.facebook.com/livinginbloom.ginamcclement/https://www.instagram.com/gina.mcclement/https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/counselling/gina-mcclement-pagewood-nsw*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || a...

After retiring from rugby, Wes Bending purchased a farm in Bunya in 2006, fulfilling his father's dying wish to retire in the countryside. His father, terminally ill with cancer, passed away the day after the purchase. This period marked the beginning of Wes's journey into farming and a rural lifestyle.In memory of his brother who committed suicide in 2012, Wes and his brother Rob created the Crownback Classic. Held annually from 2013 to 2018, this event provided support to men needing a break and raised over $20,000 for Northern Beaches Lifeline.Following their marriage in 2013 Wes and his wife moved to various rentals before convincing his wife to move near Bunya in 2017. Despite his efforts, Wes went through a tough separation, impacting his relationship with his children. He stresses the importance of support during such challenging times.Wes and his friends honoured their fallen friends through Friday morning surfing. He believes that modern society makes it hard for men to find opportunities for male bonding due to financial pressures and other constraints. Wes credits his understanding of pure love and his spiritual journey to his experiences with plant medicines. These experiences changed his perspective on relationships and connections, advocating for exploration over judgment.Finding strength in daily mindfulness practices, yoga, Wes sees beauty in everyday life, inspired by scenes like a plastic bag floating in the wind. He aims to start a Bunya yoga club and men's retreat to give back to the community.Wes values mentoring young people to help them heal from childhood trauma. He finds genuine gratitude more fulfilling than financial gain. Through reflection and openness to learning from others, he has gained wisdom from life's experiences and the passing of close family members.*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Wayne's early years were filled with rugby union and league, providing him companionship and a mental outlet. Despite personal struggles with depression, sports helped him cope.From a young age, Wayne faced debilitating depression, navigating periods of despair unseen by others. Misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment marked his early experiences with mental health systems but did not define him.Transitioning from sports to the real world, Wayne joined the fire brigade, discovering a renewed purpose. Nevertheless, he encountered setbacks and tough lessons in trust, which impacted his mental health journey.After years of battling treatment-resistant depression, Wayne found substantial help under Dr. Gordon Parker at the Black Dog Institute and his path to mental wellness began taking shape.After his 17 years at Black Dog, Wayne dedicates his life to men's mental health advocacy. His straightforward communication style and personal experiences break stigmas and foster open dialogues, inspiring countless individuals.Wayne champions a new view of masculinity, advocating that seeking help is strength, not weakness. He emphasises emotional health, being a good person, and family bonds over societal standards of material success.Wayne’s transformative journey impacted his family positively, inspiring his son to seek mental health help. Focusing on the present, he stresses self-forgiveness and using life's challenges as growth milestones.BiographyWayne Wigham is a passionate lived experience speaker with 18 years of experience presenting to rural and remote communities, and corporates including keynote and charity presentations to sporting and community groups. He is a consultant on men and youth mental health.SocialLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-wigham-19683686*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Born in Sri Lanka with limited career options, Jetha's perfectionist tendencies and cultural isolation triggered mental health challenges early on. His parents' courageous move to Australia provided new opportunities but also difficulties adapting.Jetha battled obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety in silence for years, with the conditions significantly impacting his life. He felt shame about the disorders and suffered alone, without openly seeking help, even as he advanced his corporate career.Grappling with OCD forced Jetha to redefine success beyond corporate achievements. He recognized the importance of building self-worth, not relying only on external validation. Authenticity and self-compassion became key, even as he continued professional advancement.A pivotal moment for Jetha was an encounter with cancer patients sleeping on hospital floors in Sri Lanka. It reignited Jetha's childhood aspiration to help others and he launched a naïve but persistent effort to make a difference through fundraising.Jetha's 20-year philanthropic journey establishing a cancer transit home, lifeline centre, and other initiatives in Sri Lanka gave rise to the Courage, Compassion and Commitment (CCC) Foundation. These three virtues guided his life and work. Jetha's mental health experiences and philanthropy shaped his focus on psychological resilience - the ability to "bounce with and bounce off adversity." He emphasized building self-worth, psychological safety, strong relationships and having realistic expectations for thriving despite challenges.At age 56, Jetha boldly restarted his career to share his insights on mental well-being. His "Let's Talk" program and CCC Foundation aim to foster honest conversations, reduce stigma and help people feel seen, heard and valued."A simple conversation can be the difference between an end or a beginning". My passion is to make it a beginning by enabling everyone to feel SEEN, HEARD and VALUED. Feeling valued fundamental for our emotional wellbeing and our ability to connect, learn and contribute.ContactLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jetha-devapura-576a2a6Website: https://letstalkprogram.org/*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting...

Glenys Reid is the CEO of the Chatty Cafe Foundation in Australia, an initiative focused on addressing loneliness and social isolation through facilitating conversations in coffee shops and cafes. Glenys has a background marked by resilience, shaped by her family's experience, particularly her father's time as a prisoner of war. Her family's attitude towards life and survival has significantly influenced her approach to adversity. Glenys attributes her wisdom and values to the diverse experiences and cultures she encountered through her privileged upbringing, which included education, travel, and scholarships.Before founding Chatty Cafe, Glenys worked in the corporate sector, facing mental health issues and employment challenges, particularly in 2017. She places strong emphasis on the importance of physical fitness and its impact on mental health, advocating for the integration of physical activity and social connections in daily life.She was inspired to start Chatty Cafe in 2019 after her own experiences of loneliness and social isolation led her to notice people sitting alone in cafes. Despite various challenges, including national bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, she successfully launched Chatty Cafe and grew it to over 230 venues with more than 70 volunteers across Australia.Glenys values kindness and social connection. She defines kindness as a competency and believes in the power of one person to make a difference, stressing the importance of listening to others' stories and building meaningful relationships. Social Mediahttps://chattycafeaustralia.org.au/https://www.facebook.com/chattycafeaustraliahttps://www.instagram.com/ChattyCafeAUS/https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenys-reid-8385521a/*****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Alan's personal experience with homelessness and mental health challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, informs his empathetic approach to peer support work. He transitioned from a career as a financial advisor to a peer worker position in suicide prevention, where he co-designs and implements vital services to support those in crisis.Alan is an inspiring community advocate and leader, known for his contributions to various community initiatives. Some of his notable undertakings include:Founding the Sydney Community Safe Space. This is a safe-haven for individuals in crisis, providing a supportive environment for those in need. Setting up a Men's Space Supper Club which aim to foster camaraderie, support, and open dialogue among men, encouraging them to share their experiences and challenges in a safe and supportive setting.Conversation Cafes which are designed to encourage open, meaningful conversations within the community, helping individuals connect, share, and support one another. Additionally, Alan is actively involved with the Public Interest Advocacy Centres. He strives to bring honest, compassionate support to the community and advocate for tailored, non-clinical approaches to mental health. His focus on vulnerability, patience, and discipline reflects his commitment to making a positive impact and shining a light for others facing similar struggles. Alan's ultimate hope is to see systemic changes that provide appropriate support to prevent individuals from taking their own lives and to foster a world where everyone's unique needs and interests are addressed. On a personal level, he aspires to have a fulfilling life, maintain hope, and improve his relationships with family and friends. He has committed himself to a resourceful lifestyle in recovery. *****We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes. Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contactWe hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!Warmly, The Kintsugi Heroes teamYouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || WebsiteTheme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Tracie Eaton is an Internationally-renowned & award winning Australian artist with an artistic career spanning over 17 years. Tracie’s studio is located on the Gold Coast, QLD, Australia. Her personal experiences with burnout propelled Tracie to transition from corporate to creative pursuits, emphasizing the importance of listening to one’s inner needs and embracing purposeful change.With a background in occupational therapy, Tracie explores the emotional impact of colours in her art, using them as a therapeutic tool to unlock and express feelings.Tracie utilises art to inspire and fundraise for Destiny Rescue, highlighting how creativity can drive social and emotional transformation, and uplift exploited communities.Tracie addresses sex trafficking head-on, advocating for societal awareness and action, while illustrating how collective efforts can lead to significant impacts on global and local scales.Tracie’s connections with Hollywood celebrities amplify her mission, using their influence and reach to raise awareness and support for rescuing children from exploitation and trafficking.BiographyTracie is a self-taught artist with a painting style that is expressive & unique, with her creativity knowing no bounds. Her luxurious artworks are bold, textured with loose form & brush strokes, and has been described by curators as ‘passion-art’ – “everyone who sees it loves it.”Tracie specialises in creating original acrylic & mixed media artworks for the luxury art sector. Tracie is often referred to as a ‘Celebrity Artist’ following her exclusive 3-year commissions (2019-2021 and 2023 -2005) to create bespoke artwork for Oscar’s nominees & winners, with an impressive list of Hollywood A-listers, In 2024 Tracie won the international Masterful Minds award by Circle Foundation. She has also been recognised as International Acrylic Artist of the Year Award (Australia) by Lux Life). Tracie has also established the Art for Rescue initiative, an approved fundraiser for the Charity Destiny Rescue, established to eradicate sex trafficking and exploitation of children. In 2023 Tracie was awarded the Best Acrylic Artist – Asia-Pacific by APAC. Additionally, Tracie was the only international artist invited, and participate in a joint digital exhibition in ToDA(Dubai). In 2022, she recognised by Lux Life as the Leading Luxury Art Company - Australia and has been awarded the Leonardo Da Vinci International Artist Award for Outstanding Artistic Merit for her acrylic & mixed media piece ‘Flowers In Bloom.’In 2022 Tracie was recognised by APAC Best Original Painting & Art Studio QLD & Most Creative Australian Arts & Painting Company. In 2021 Tracie Eaton was recognised by GAA as one of the Leading & Investable Contemporary Artists worldwide and included in their Curated publication for distribution to galleries, collectors, art museums & art fairs around the world. She was listed by Herrington Publications as one of the top 25 Global Woman Change Makers of the year. During the last five years Tracie was involved in over 20 live art performances, solo or joint exhibitions. Social MediaART FOR RESCUE:https://artforrescue.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/art.for.rescue/TRACIE EATON:https://www.tracieeaton.com/https://www.facebook.com/TracieEatonArtist