Running to Rome: Leadership, Family, Faith and the Marathon Journey

Episode 13 — Belonging: The Communities That Shape UsWhat does it really mean to belong?In this episode, I reflect on the communities that have shaped who I am — from my childhood in Whyalla and Port Pirie, to my parents’ commitment to school, sport and community, and now the communities my own family is part of.I dedicate this episode to my Mum and Dad, Peter and Lyn, and the example they gave me: that belonging isn't just about what we receive from a community, but what we contribute to it.We explore the role of volunteering, coaching, culture, faith, running and family, and how leadership skills are developed well beyond formal leadership positions. I also reflect on legacy, the people who come before us, and the importance of knowing when to contribute, when to support and, sometimes, when to step aside so someone else can carry something forward.Because communities don't simply exist. People build them.And perhaps the greatest legacy isn't what we achieve, but what we give — and what continues through others long after we're gone.

Episode 12 – Barossa Half Marathon: The First Test of PreparationSometimes you can achieve a personal best and still finish wondering whether you could have done more.In this episode, I reflect on the Barossa Half Marathon, my first major test on the journey towards the Rome Marathon. After months of training, I returned to a course I last ran seven years ago, with a clear goal: break 1 hour and 45 minutes.But the race didn't unfold exactly as planned. After a confident start, I hit the wall around the 18 km mark, questioned my preparation and had to dig deep to reach the finish. With my brother Luke alongside me, I was reminded that sometimes the most important part of the journey is how we respond when things get difficult.The experience left me reflecting on a powerful distinction: there is a difference between being prepared and being in control.Whether it's running a half marathon, leading a school or navigating the challenges of everyday life, preparation doesn't guarantee that everything will go to plan. It gives us the tools to respond when it doesn't. And sometimes, the setbacks we experience are the very things that teach us what we need to learn next.As I continue towards Rome, I'm learning to prepare well, trust the process, accept what I can't control and keep moving when the plan changes.The race wasn't the failure. The race was the feedback.Week by week. Run by run. One step closer to Rome.

What if we stopped trying to be perfect and simply focusedon becoming 10% better?In this episode, I reflect on academic achievement, thecourage to hold high standards, and the importance of recognising growth as well as excellence. I explore what it means to build a culture where people areencouraged to keep improving, while also reflecting on the parents who show up for their children and the responsibility we have to create the right conditions for others to grow.From the classroom to leadership, parenting, running andfaith, the message is simple:We don’t have to become the best. We just have to keepbecoming.What would 10% better look like for you today?Week by week. Run by run. One step closer to Rome.

What do we do when things don’t go according to plan?A setback can feel like failure — but sometimes it’s simplyan invitation to stop, listen and learn.In this episode, I reflect on the setbacks that have comewith training for Rome, the frustration that comes when our plans unravel, and the lessons they can teach us about resilience, patience and growth.From running and injuries to leadership, family and faith,I explore the idea that setbacks don’t have to define us. What matters is what we do next.Because sometimes the setback isn’t the end of the journey.It’s part of the formation.

What does it mean to truly trust someone? A Tether is only a short piece of cord, but what it represents is so much bigger.A chance encounter on a long run with the Achilles running group left me reflecting on the power of the tether both the physical one connecting a runner and guide, and the invisible ties that hold people together. This episode explores trust, servant leadership, community and faith, and what it means to walk or run alongside someone when they place their trust in you.