What happens when the version of yourself you created to succeed starts getting in the way of actually being yourself?

In this episode, broadcaster and author Christian O’Connell opens up to Osher Gunsberg about the darker side of the career he built around conversation and connection. Christian reflects on the radio persona he developed early in his career, his obsession with having the funniest show on air, and the moment that carefully constructed identity began to fall apart. In his 40s, he started having severe panic attacks in the one place he had always felt the most comfortable: the radio studio. Eventually, he sought therapy for the first time and discovered that confronting what was happening beneath the surface could change everything. He also packed up and moved his family halfway around the world from England to Australia, sparking initial backlash from radio listeners.

This conversation explores vulnerability, self-discovery and authentic human connection, including Christian's unconventional experience of physically releasing emotions during a therapy session. Christian also shares his 'WAVES' framework for better conversations, and explains why becoming less defensive, more curious and more present can transform the way we communicate with partners, children, colleagues and ourselves. There are practical tools too, including Christian's experience with breathwork and a simple breathing technique that he uses when he feels anxiety beginning to rise.

In one of the episode's most moving moments, Christian recalls how a listener named Pete sharing his bowel cancer experience on air led to a 600% rise in the return of bowel screening kits. And Christian reveals that Pete's final message became a guiding principle: “Keep up the humour, don't forget the human.”

As social media and AI increasingly changing the way we communicate, this conversation is a reminder that the things that make us human — curiosity, vulnerability, humour, presence and genuine connection — may be more important than ever.

LINKS 

• Christian's book 'Unscript: The Radical Act of Being Yourself' is available now
• Follow (@mrchristianoconnell) on Instagram
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest books here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

LIKE THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT...

• How Radio Star Robin Bailey Kept Going Through Unimaginable Grief - Twice
• Jackie O Reveals How She and Kyle Sandilands Built Australia's Most Successful Radio Show
• Purpose, Parenting, Posca - and how you can do everything you want, with Merrick Watts
• What it's like to be Hamish Blake

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes a child want to read? And what happens when we stop trying to make childhood perfect?

In this episode, Osher Gunsberg looks back on his chat with one of Australia’s most successful children’s authors, Andy Griffiths, the award-winning creative force behind The Day My Bum Went Psycho and the much-loved Treehouse series.

Andy reflects on his early years as a high school English teacher and the lesson that shaped much of his work: children will engage with reading when we give them something they actually want to read. He explains why books offer children more than literacy — they can open up their imagination, expand their understanding of the world and provide a private escape from the rules and expectations of everyday life.

Andy also reveals how watching children choose books helped inspire the unconventional visual style of his Treehouse series of books, and how his creative partnership with illustrator Terry Denton grew from a willingness to embrace silliness, experimentation and ideas that might otherwise have been considered too strange.

The conversation also covers parenting, where Andy challenges the pressure to create the “perfect childhood”. Drawing on his own experience raising two daughters, he argues that allowing children to experience some adversity can help them develop resilience, and that 'good enough parenting' really can be good enough.

It's a funny, thoughtful and surprisingly profound conversation about books, childhood, imagination, parenting and the importance of giving kids permission to explore the world on their own terms.

LINKS 

• Listen to the full episode with Andy here
• More about Andy and his work here
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at  Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest book "So What? Now What?" here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Climate change can feel so enormous that it’s difficult to know where to start or how to stay engaged without becoming overwhelmed.

In this episode of Better Than Yesterday, Osher Gunsberg speaks with climate campaigner and Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie about the realities of climate change, the progress Australia has already made, and how we can continue fighting for a better future without burning ourselves out.

Amanda has spent more than 20 years working on climate change, and she reflects on what it’s like to dedicate your life to an issue that can feel almost impossibly large. She opens up about the loss of her friend and climate scientist Professor Will Steffen, and the emotional toll of witnessing environmental change while raising young children.

The conversation also explores Amanda’s idea of “stubborn optimism” -  a deliberate choice to acknowledge the seriousness of the climate crisis while still believing that people can work together to create meaningful change.

Amanda and Osher also discuss Australia’s rapid growth in renewable energy, why the economics of clean energy are changing the conversation, the potential for Australia to become a global leader in green industries, and why progress can sometimes be difficult to see while you’re living through it.

Amanda also shares practical ways to protect yourself from doom-scrolling and climate burnout. And if you’re wondering what you can actually do about climate change, Amanda’s advice is simple: start small - because you don’t have to save the world on your own. You just have to find your part of the puzzle.

LINKS 

• More on the Climate Council here
• Follow (@theclimatecouncil) on Instagram
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest books here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

LIKE THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT...

• Listen to Amanda's first appearance on Better Than Yesterday
• The Psychology of Climate Anxiety, Climate Denial and Talking to your Kids about it with Psychologist Dr Susie Burke
• The Economic Cost of Climate Inaction with the brilliant economist Nikki Hutley

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are we actually teaching young people about consent?

In this episode, Osher looks back on his powerful conversation with Chanel Contos, where they explored how children and teenagers learn about sex, relationships, boundaries and consent — often from sources far beyond the classroom.

Chanel, whose campaign for better consent education began after thousands of young people shared their experiences of sexual assault, argues that education needs to go much further than simply teaching “no means no”. Young people need to understand empathy, recognise boundaries and learn what healthy, mutually desired relationships actually look like.

The conversation examines the influence of pornography, movies and popular culture, and how romantic storylines can normalise jealousy, coercion, obsession and controlling behaviour. Chanel also discusses the different ways boys and girls are socialised — including the pressure on girls to be accommodating and the importance of helping boys develop empathy beyond their immediate social circles.

They also explore what consent can look and sound like in real life, including the importance of paying attention to body language and creating space for someone to change their mind. As Chanel explains, consent isn't simply about hearing an explicit “no”; it is about actively checking that another person is comfortable and genuinely wants to participate.

Despite the difficult subject matter, Chanel remains hopeful. She believes sexual violence is preventable, but that doing so requires adults to have uncomfortable conversations, challenge their own assumptions and make these lessons part of everyday life.

Because teaching consent isn't a one-off conversation. It's something we teach through the small, ordinary moments in which young people learn what love, respect, boundaries and healthy relationships look like.

SUPPORT

• For domestic or sexual abuse support: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT)
• For immediate support in a crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14
• More resources are available from Beyond Blue

LINKS 

• Listen to the full episode with Chanel here
• Follow Chanel (@chanelc) on Instagram 
• More from Chanel's Teach Us Consent initiative
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest book "So What? Now What?" here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if happiness isn’t about achieving more, but learning to find inner peace wherever you are?

In this episode of Better Than Yesterday, former professional surfer and mental health advocate Cooper Chapman shares with Osher Gunsberg the mindset shifts that transformed his life — from chasing success, external validation and results, to focusing on gratitude, mindfulness, resilience and service to others.

Cooper talks openly about the pressure of high performance, the danger of tying your self-worth to achievement, and why falling into a victim mindset can leave us feeling powerless. He explains how we can instead take responsibility, learn from setbacks and focus on what is within our control.

 Cooper also explains his simple approach to mental health: small, practical habits that anyone can incorporate into everyday life. From a daily gratitude practice to spending time in nature without your phone, Cooper discusses how seemingly tiny actions can gradually retrain our minds to notice the positives. Along the way, he also shares some memorable lessons, including “get curious, not furious,” “knowledge is knowing, wisdom is doing,” and his father’s reminder that “life’s about appreciation, not expectation.”

LINKS 

• More on Cooper's Good Human Factory here
• Follow (@thegoodhumanfactory) on Instagram (and DM “Good Club” to join the free community Cooper mentioned)
• Watch Cooper's 'Good Humans' podcast on YouTube
• Listen to Cooper's Good Humans podcast
• Cooper's book 'The 1% Good Club' is out now
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest books here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

CONTENT NOTE:
Advice contained in this episode is general in nature and does not take into consideration personal circumstances. If you are concerned about a prolonged mental health challenge for yourself or someone you know, be sure to contact your health professional or Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au 

LIKE THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT...

• Why Winning Doesn’t Always Make You Happy with Ben Crowe
• How Social Media And Smartphones Are Rewiring Our Brains with Dr. Mark Williams
• 'Comfort Is Holding You Back': Secrets to Growth and Confidence with Ant Williams

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom Nash knows what it means to have your life change in an instant. At just 19, he contracted meningococcal sepsis, fell into a coma and woke up to find his arms and legs had been amputated to save his life.

Looking back on his chat with me, Tom explores the power of reframing adversity, why positive thinking isn't about pretending everything is okay, and how learning to find a different perspective can become a skill that gets stronger with practice. He explains why he prefers “fear setting” to traditional goal setting, and why focusing on the next small milestone rather than an overwhelming end goal helped him learn to walk again with prosthetics.

Tom also challenges the idea that “everything happens for a reason”, arguing instead that we have the power to give meaning and purpose to what happens to us. From everyday frustrations to life-changing adversity, his philosophy is about distinguishing between what we can and can't control — and concentrating our energy on what is directly in front of us.

LINKS 

• Listen to the full episode with Tom here
• Follow Tom (@djhookie) on Instagram 
• More from Tom on Substack
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest book "So What? Now What?" here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Than Yesterday, Osher Gunsberg sits down with legendary comedian, writer, actor and broadcaster Shaun Micallef for a wide-ranging conversation about comedy, creativity, empathy, addiction, and so much more.

Best known for his TV shows like Full Frontal, Talkin' 'Bout Your Generation and Mad As Hell, Shaun talks about his latest role, as part of the Melbourne Theatre Company’s production of Uncle Vanya, and how he prepared for the show. Shaun also discusses the challenge of balancing comedy and tragedy on stage, and why breaking the fourth wall has become such a defining part of his work. He also reflects on his years in television, including his experience hosting the Logies, and working with Osher on Dancing with the Stars.

Shaun also discusses his documentaries about addiction, particularly gambling addiction, and what he learned from listening to people whose lives have been devastated by gambling. Together, Shaun and Osher explore the complicated nature of addiction, personal responsibility and the need to show greater compassion towards people caught in its grip.

Shaun then shares the story behind his upcoming book about explorer Matthew Flinders, his approach to writing about Australia's colonial history, and why humour can be a powerful way of confronting difficult subjects without trivialising them.

If you love Shaun's quick wit and love of all things chaotic, you'll love this chat!

LINKS 

• Catch Shaun in Uncle Vanya at the Arts Centre Melbourne until August 22 - tix and info @ mtc.com.au
• Shaun's book 'Matthew Flinders' is released on September 29
• Shaun's book 'DeAth Takes a Holiday' is out now
• Shaun's documentary 'Shaun Micallef's Going For Broke' is available now on ABC iview
• Shaun's documentary 'Shaun Micallef's On The Sauce' is available now on ABC iview
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at  Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest books  here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

LIKE THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT...

• Natalie Bassingthwaighte Lifts the Curtain on Her Career & Personal Struggles
• Alex Lee on using improv and comedy to bring history to life
• When Australian Idol's Wes Carr Picked Up A Shovel It Changed What Happens When He Picks Up A Guitar

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to stay true to your values in a political system that often rewards compromise?

In this episode, I'm looking back on my interview with Hannah Ferguson, the founder of Cheek Media who recently announces she was running as an independent candidate, challenging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in the federal seat of Grayndler. Though this interview was recorded before she announced her political ambitions, this chat offers a fascinating glimpse into the principles that shaped her journey long before she entered the race. But the truth is - I don't want her to be Prime Minister.

Hannah shares with me why media literacy is one of the most important skills Australians can develop, how to identify bias, question the information you consume, and become a more informed citizen. She argues that democracy depends on people thinking critically rather than accepting headlines at face value.

We also explore some of the biggest political and social challenges facing Australians today, including sexual violence reform, workplace relations, housing, and protecting power over creating meaningful change. Hannah discusses her passion for making complex political issues understandable and accessible for everyone.

If you liked what you heard here, you can check out the full conversation in the link below.

LINKS 

• Listen to the full episode with Hannah here
• Follow Hannah (@hannahferguson___ ) on Instagram
• Read more on Cheek Media
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest book "So What? Now What?" here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it really mean to lead with strength?

For decades, we've been taught that great leadership is about being loud, decisive and commanding. But what if the most effective leaders are the ones who listen first, lead with empathy and have the courage to challenge the status quo?

In this episode, Osher Günsberg sits down with former Deputy Commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force (and first female to be promoted to rank of lieutenant general) Elanor Boekholt-O'Sullivan, whose remarkable career has redefined what leadership can look like. Rising through one of the world's most traditional institutions, Elanor transformed military culture by proving that sensitivity, curiosity and authenticity aren't weaknesses, but powerful competitive advantages.

Drawing on more than 30 years of military service, Elanor shares how she overcame resistance, challenged outdated systems, and created lasting change by helping people rethink why they do what they do. From being the only woman aboard a warship with no accommodation for women, to inspiring a new generation of leaders to embrace vulnerability, her experiences offer lessons that apply far beyond the military.

This conversation also explores her extraordinary decision to leave the military after 32 years to take on one of the Netherlands' biggest challenges: helping solve the country's housing crisis as newly appointed Minister of Housing and Spatial Planning. Her deeply human perspective on the importance of creating not just houses, but homes, reveals why purpose should always be at the heart of leadership.

Whether you're leading a business, managing a team, raising a family or navigating your own career, this episode is packed with practical insights on resilience, change, emotional intelligence and leading with courage.

LINKS 

• Elanor's book 'Armed With Sensitivity: A General's Perspective On Leadership' is out now
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at  Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest books  here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

LIKE THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT...

• Kids Don’t Need Perfect Parents, Just Present Ones with Lisa Taylor
• How The Netherlands Turned an Oil Crisis Into a National Opportunity
• The New Leadership Playbook: Why Caring Workplaces Win with Graeme Cowan

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time world surfing champion Tom Carroll scored back-to-back perfect 10s at Pipeline, one of the deadliest waves on the planet. But behind the world titles and global fame, Tom was fighting a quiet, destructive battle with methamphetamine addiction while raising three daughters.

In this conversation, Tom opens up about the trauma of losing his mother as a child, what actually happens when you stop running from emotional pain, and the split-second decision at a roundabout six months into recovery that saved his life.

Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or trying to break free from your own unhealthy cycles, Tom’s insights offer a practical map out of isolation and into a life beyond what you thought was possible.

LINKS 

• Listen to the full conversation with Tom here
• More on Tom's meditation workshop
• Tom's breathwork workshop
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at  Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest books  here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to [email protected] 

LIKE THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT...

• AFL Coach Michelle Cowan on How to Stay Confident When People Doubt You
• Enjoyment Is Efficiency: The Productivity Shift That Changes Everything
• The Iconic founder Adam Jacobs' reveals his top 3 ideas for success

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.