In this episode of Tall Tales, we welcome back Mel — the globe-trotting, crowd-towering adventurer — for another candid and comical chat about life from well above average height.

I love chatting to Mel she cracks me up and makes me smile.  One of those people you look forward to seeing, I hope you enjoy her too.

In this laid-back, inspiring episode, I sit down with a true-blue Aussie legend — a man who grew up in the country, shared roadkill meals with his mates, built a business from scratch, and made enough money to walk away from it all by 52.

He now lives the good life, one that reminds me of an old Italian fella — sipping red wine, watching the world go by, and appreciating every second of this short time we’re given. We dive into the mindset shift that made him downsize, the lessons he learned chasing success, and why he believes time is the only real wealth.

We also chat about his son — a successful stand-up comedian making waves in London — and there are links to his work in the show notes below.

Whether you're dreaming of financial freedom, curious about simple living, or just love a good yarn from a classic Aussie character, this one’s for you.

https://www.instagram.com/ramseysmith_comedy/#

http://www.youtube.com/@Rsif-1115

http://www.youtube.com/@EmiliMilosevska

In this heartwarming episode, we’re joined by a special guest who was raised in a loving family in rural New South Wales, she shares fond memories of an idyllic childhood filled with holidays and trips to Sydney.

Becoming a Registered Nurse, she eventually found herself working in one of the most intense and emotionally demanding areas of healthcare — the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). She takes us behind the curtain of ICU life, giving us a rare insight into the pressure, precision, and emotional strength required to care for patients on the brink.

We dive into the tough realities of working through the COVID-19 pandemic, how she and her colleagues coped, and the lessons she carries with her from that time.

Now, as she looks forward to  a gentler pace of life on the stunning South Coast of NSW, she talks about re-discovering a new creative passion: crafting beautiful leadlight windows. With her husband out catching dinner and the sea breeze at her back, she finally has time to embrace artistry and relaxation.

This episode is a beautiful blend of clinical grit and personal grace — you won’t want to miss it.

In this deeply moving episode, Rhys’ recovery from his heart transplant is filled with both triumph and heartache. As he heals physically, the unexpected news of his wife’s life-limiting illness shakes their world. Through moments of pain and realization, Rhys reflects on the powerful impact of organ donation, the emotional rollercoaster of life’s fragility, and the profound sense of purpose in caring for his family. His journey highlights the everyday challenges that connect us all, showing that even in the toughest times, love, resilience, and hope can prevail.

In Episode 2 of this 3-part podcast series, Rhys' life takes an unexpected turn when he suffers a stroke, leading him to experience a profound and humbling realization about the fragility of life. As he struggles with the sensation of being trapped in his own body, unable to communicate or move, Rhys faces a devastating diagnosis: cardiomyopathy, a condition that requires a heart transplant for survival.

In this powerful episode, Rhys shares the emotional rollercoaster of coming to terms with his condition, and the life-altering moment when he understood just how miraculous and precious a heart truly is. He reflects on the unimaginable pain a family must endure to give the gift of life through organ donation, and the overwhelming gratitude he feels for the second chance he’s been given. Rhys’ journey is a poignant reminder of resilience, the deep connections we share, and the profound impact of life’s most unexpected challenges.

Stay Tuned for Episode 3, where Rhys shares his inspiring recovery journey and the medical tragedy that strikes his wife, adding yet another layer to their remarkable story of  love.

In episode one of this 3 part podcast, we hear the inspiring journey of Rhys, who moved from New Zealand to Australia to escape a destructive cycle of fighting and drinking. Realizing he needed a fresh start, Rhys pursued his passion for cooking and became a chef. On a random meeting, he found himself becoming a white-water rafting guide, leading trips along Australia's beautiful east coast. Along the way, he discovered a love for white-water rafting, met his soulmate, and started a family. Rhys' story is a powerful example of transformation and embracing new opportunities.

Be sure to return next week for Episode 2, where Rhys shares the details of a life-threatening medical emergency that changed everything.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with an extraordinary guest who has lived a life of grit, perseverance, and transformation. From his humble beginnings hunting rabbits in the country to enduring a life-altering injury during basic training with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), our guest's journey is nothing short of remarkable.

He opens up about his battles with painkillers and overcoming the challenges of business failure. But through it all, he found a beautiful silver lining: a loving wife, three wonderful children, and the realization of his lifelong dream of becoming one of the magnificent men in their flying machines.

Now, as a trainee flight instructor, he teaches others to soar while reflecting on his personal journey of resilience, love, and overcoming the odds. Join us for a conversation about strength, recovery, and the power of dreaming big.

In this episode, we chat with Elisa, a young lady whose journey is as unconventional as it is inspiring. From choosing to live  in a tent and living off food she found in dumpsters after earning three degrees she embraced a minimalist, eco-friendly lifestyle, Elisa’s story proves that there’s no one “right” way to live.  Elisa shares her unique perspective on putting life over career, finding fulfillment outside the typical 9-to-5.  

Step back in time with Aunty Val, an 87-year-old Sydney native, as she shares stories from her early life in post-World War II Australia. In this heartfelt and nostalgic podcast, Val takes us through the challenges and joys of growing up when girls had limited educational options, and how the world around her changed. As the last of four siblings, Val is the keeper of family history, recounting the memories of her lost brother and her own journey through a transforming world. Tune in for an intimate look at life, love, and loss, as told by one remarkable woman who’s seen it all.

Hey everyone! Big news – Season 2 of East Coast Averages is coming your way very soon! I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you who’s been listening, subscribing, and supporting the show. Your enthusiasm means the world to me!

I know it's been a bit of a wait, and I appreciate your patience. Life threw some bad vibes my way, and I had to take some time to handle a few personal things on the home front. But the good news is, I’m BACK and ready to dive into more great conversations and content.

Season 2 promises to be just as engaging, with even more exciting topics, guests, and insights that you won’t want to miss. So stay tuned, and get ready for the next chapter of East Coast Averages!

Thank you again for your continued support, and I can't wait to reconnect with all of you soon!