In this episode, I sit down with Bronwyn Wright, CEO of the Sir Brian Bell Foundation, a proud wife and mother, and a huge influence in my journey beyond NRL. She’s helped me see Papua New Guinea in a whole new way: with empathy, purpose, and hope.

We talk about her family’s deep roots in PNG, the legacy of Sir Brian Bell, and why improving women’s health through Her Health Hub, is a mission close to her heart.

We also unpack the January 10 crisis. How it shook the country and businesses like Brian Bell. But more importantly, how it brought out resilience, unity, and true leadership. It was an opportunity to “Build Back Better”.

Brian Bell has been part of PNG since 1958, more than 67 years of building a business and supporting communities across the country.

This episode is about leading with heart, rising through tough times and showing up when it matters most.

Recorded with five minutes' notice in the Brian Bell boardroom in Port Moresby — no script, no prep, just two Rode mics, an iPhone, and Bron casually dropping wisdom like it was a TED Talk. Real, raw, and straight from the heart. Big thanks to Bron for rolling with it like a pro!

To get in touch with Bron and the team visit:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bronwyn-wright-6a03368/

https://www.facebook.com/herhealthhubpng/

Her Health Hub, located at Stop & Shop Badili in Port Moresby, is a pioneering women's health clinic dedicated to providing affordable and accessible cervical cancer screening services in Papua New Guinea. Established through a partnership between the Sir Brian Bell Foundation and the CPL Foundation, the clinic offers same-day HPV and cervical cancer testing for just K20, utilising WHO-endorsed GeneXpert diagnostic technology.

This initiative addresses a critical health need, as cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in PNG, with high incidence and mortality rates. By facilitating early detection and immediate referrals to Port Moresby General Hospital's Obstetrics & Gynaecology Clinic, Her Health Hub plays a vital role in improving women's health outcomes.

Beyond clinical services, Her Health Hub also engages in broader awareness and education campaigns aimed at reducing the stigma around reproductive health care, encouraging more women to seek regular screenings, and ultimately lowering cervical cancer rates across PNG.

https://sirbrianbellfoundation.org.pg/

The Sir Brian Bell Foundation is a family driven organisation dedicated to supporting the people of Papua New Guinea through health, education, and community programs. Led by CEO Bronwyn Wright, the Foundation has proudly operated for 9 years, staying true to the values of the Sir Brian Bell family legacy. In that time, it has contributed over 50 million kina to projects across the country, helping to build a stronger, healthier, and more hopeful PNG.

The new "Beyond the Field" branding was proudly developed in collaboration with Colony Group — bringing the vision and identity of this new chapter to life. Huge thanks to the team for their creative direction and design expertise.

Connect with David and follow him on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Lee Cheesman shares a story of how a near death experience to be something that saved her life, literally. Getting hit by a car while crossing the road. It was because of this event that doctors found a lime-sized tumour in her head while she was in hospital. The tumour was affecting an optic nerve which meant her sight wasn’t clear. As a result she was hit by a car she ‘didn’t see’. After nine months of chemo and two operations she has been clear since 2013. She shares what helped her through that period.

Lee works for Pacific Labour Facility - a program which helps people from the Pacific Islands to get work into a currently in-demand industry. Many people (mainly from PNG) have messaged me on social media channels asking to help them to get jobs in this space. Please go to the Labour Mobility Units within the country. That is the only way to connect with the employers in Australia.

Go to www.palm.gov.au

This conversation covers many interesting and different fields: Ayahuasca - uncovering memories as a child; the meaning behind them.

This is something that I personally want to experience. Of course in a safe and guided environment. How the brain responds to certain events Using breathwork as a tool to become resilient Working in sport Growing up in a cult; brainwashing and trying to escape

Connect with and follow Lee on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-cheesman-05b4595/

About David Mead:

David played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Connect with David:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast

Representing her dad’s country, Papua New Guinea, while playing in her mother’s homeland, England, was a powerful and unique moment. In this episode, Shae shares what it felt like to wear the PNG Orchids jersey and why the team means so much to her.

We talk about the rise of women’s rugby league in PNG and the growing impact the Orchids are having in the community. Messages from families back home like “Thank you for inspiring my daughter” have become a big part of what drives her and her teammates to keep pushing forward. This one’s about pride, connection, and using sport to make a difference.

About David Mead:

David played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Connect with David and follow him on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast

Lesley grew up in a settlement area in Port Moresby; Morata. Discovered his passion for art at a very young age. Sold his artwork to become independent and this was his way of providing for him and his family. He got a scholarship to Australia to further his education. He has his sights set on winning the Archibald prize; the most prestigious portrait prize in Australia. I'm backing him to receive this one day. Check out Lesley's outstanding artwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lwengemboart/

Facebook: facebook.com/lesley.wengembo

About David Mead:

David played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Connect with David:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast

Growing up in Papua New Guinea before heading to boarding school in Australia, Aidan shares what it was like finding his love for rugby union at 16 and the importance of enjoying what you do. We talk about the untapped potential of rugby in PNG and why real pathways matter. He opens up about the cultural shifts of moving to France and Japan, learning to dive all-in (with a few too many croissants and red wines along the way), and how injuries, missed sacrifices, and strong support systems all shaped his journey. A down-to-earth, honest chat about sport, growth, and taking chances.

Connect with Aidan on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aidan-toua-8910b21a6/

About David Mead:

David played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Connect with David and follow him on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast

Delouise has had a different path to NRL than most. Seven years between first grade games and plenty of speed bumps along the way. We speak about what is was like to move countries from Tonga to New Zealand and then from New Zealand to Australia, and what the best tips are for handling that transition. Being held accountable at a young age by his older brother helped him to stay on the right path. Fear of letting others down was one way of staying on track. Young guys in rugby league should make the most out of the education grants that the game provides. How external pressures can be better managed by athletes. Chatting for 5-10 minutes and showing some vulnerability to teammates can take huge weight off your shoulders. Sauna chats and much more.

Connect with Delouise: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delouisehoeter/

About David Mead:

David played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Connect with David:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast

Anna-Liza Mopio-Jane moved from Port Moresby to the Central Coast of NSW at just four years old. Her visits back to PNG are always special — reconnecting with family, friends, and the roots that shaped her.

A Learn to Swim program in Australia opened the door to a career in the pool, eventually leading her to represent Papua New Guinea on the world’s biggest stage: the Olympics. In this episode, Anna-Liza shares what that experience was like, how to develop strong training habits, and how she learned to navigate disappointment — in both sport and life.

We also chat about celebrating your wins, the power of manifestation, and her next chapter: opening a private practice to support and guide athletes through their journeys, both mentally and emotionally. This is a story of growth, identity, and giving back through experience.

Connect with Anna-Liza and follow her on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annalizamj

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-liza-mopio-jane-oly-62393515/

Instagramm: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-liza-mopio-jane-oly-62393515/About David Mead:

David played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Connect with David:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast

In this episode, Kurt Capewell shares what it was like growing up in the country town of Charleville, QLD — riding horses, going pigging, and living a life far removed from the city. He opens up about the challenges of moving from the bush to the city, and how rugby league gave him an instant community.

We talk about how to settle into new environments, making the most of your 1% chance of cracking the NRL from under-20s, and the lasting influence of the Walker brothers on his career.

Kurt speaks honestly about the emotional and mental battles he’s faced, how perspective makes you mentally stronger, and why hard work always beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.

A powerful story of focus, resilience, and staying grounded no matter how far you go.

Connect with Kurt and follow him on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kurt_capes/

About David Mead:

David played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Connect with David:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast

Peter Vollert grew up in Papua New Guinea and now runs a successful business in Australia — but his connection to PNG remains strong. In this episode, we dive into his journey from childhood in PNG to entrepreneurship, and the routines and mindset that keep him focused daily.

We talk about:

What growing up in PNG taught him about community, resilience, and opportunity

The reality of running a business — and why structure and discipline matter

How composting and sustainability became part of his lifestyle

Why PNG needs Australia — not just in aid, but in long-term partnerships

This is a grounded, insightful chat on culture, business, and the power of small daily actions to create big change.

Connect with Peter on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-vollert-6866032a

https://www.ecoflo.com.au/about-us

About David Mead:

David played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Connect with David:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast

Mel Kawa was born and raised in the Southern Highlands of Papua New Guinea and moved to Australia at 14 in search of better educational opportunities. Her rugby journey began unexpectedly — a friend dragged her along to sign up at the University of Queensland, and three seasons later, a coach told her she had the potential to represent Queensland.

Back-to-back knee injuries couldn’t keep her from the sport she loves. Today, she plays for the Melbourne Rebels women’s team — and despite that, she’s a proud NSW Origin fan.

We talk about resilience, pushing through setbacks, the power of belief, and what life was like living and playing rugby in France. A powerful story of grit, growth, and chasing dreams.

Follow Mel on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melaniekawa/

About David Mead:

David played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Connect with David:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.mead.94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmead411

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411?lang=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast