Empowering Leaders

In this episode of Empowering Leaders, Luke is joined by Dr. Ben Hamer, a leading sociologist and futurist, to explore the seismic changes redefining work, leadership, and life in the 21st century. Ben discusses the evolving role of AI and predicts a future where autonomous agents play a key part in our daily lives. He also outlines the critical skills leaders must now cultivate—especially AI literacy, emotional intelligence, and above all, curiosity.

The conversation touches on how younger generations like Gen Z and Gen Alpha are reshaping workplace expectations with their demand for authenticity, connection, and purpose. Ben also explores our negativity bias and how it impacts the way we tend to perceive the future, and why that means embracing optimism and adaptability is more important than ever. Ben draws insights from his experience in sport, leadership, and academia to make a compelling case for collaboration, lifelong learning, and the importance of balancing personal well-being with professional impact in this age of exponential change.

Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can you have a big career, raise a family, and still feel like yourself at the end of the day?

For Dixie Marshall, the answer is yes - and she’s done it with her signature mix of courage, clarity, and collaboration. In this episode of Empowering Leaders, Dixie shares her incredible journey from becoming Australia’s first female AFL boundary rider to leading high-stakes government communications and now serving on influential corporate and community boards.

Along the way, she’s balanced her ambition with true authenticity, navigated industries that sadly weren’t built for women, and discovered that the stories we tell - and the ones we tell ourselves - have the power to shape culture and shift outcomes.

Dixie speaks candidly about the challenges she faced breaking into sports media, the transformational power of curiosity, and the value of surrounding yourself with diverse thinkers who challenge your perspective. She offers practical wisdom on career transitions, building resilience, and why collaboration is more than a buzzword - it’s a leadership mindset.

Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this mind-expanding episode of Empowering Leaders, Luke sits down with Dr. Andy Walshe, one of the world’s foremost experts on elite human performance.

In this conversation, Andy invites us to reimagine performance—not as a solitary pursuit, but as a collective journey toward becoming more human in an increasingly technological world.

With over two decades of experience working with Olympic athletes, cultural leaders, special forces, and pioneering innovators, Andy brings a rare depth of insight into what drives human excellence.

As Director of High Performance at Red Bull, Andy led groundbreaking initiatives like the Red Bull Stratos mission—coaching Felix Baumgartner to the edge of space and back in a record-breaking leap that captivated the world. Now, as the Chief Performance Officer and founding member of Liminal Collective, he continues to push the frontiers of what’s possible in human potential.

In this chat with Luke, Andy tells us how to unlock elite performance in any field, why empathy and curiosity are crucial tools for leaders and he drives home the importance of patience and self-compassion for our own personal growth.

Andy and Luke also discuss what artificial intelligence means for the future of human capability. This episode is a masterclass in mindset, preparation, and leading with purpose.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Empowering Leaders, Luke sits down with Lorena Bernal—a celebrated actress, model, and entrepreneur whose life and work are rooted in elegance, intention, and inner strength.

With a career that spans global television hits like CSI: Miami, NCIS, and Chuck, as well as appearances on the covers of Elle, Marie Claire, and more, Lorena is no stranger to the spotlight. But it’s her off-screen journey that reveals a deeper, more inspiring story. Today, as the founder of Live Love Better, Lorena is redefining what it means to live with purpose—focusing on self-growth, mindfulness, and empowering women around the world to lead connected, intentional lives.

Born in Argentina, raised in Spain, and educated in France, Lorena brings a global perspective to leadership, authenticity, and resilience. A proud mother of three boys and wife to Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta, she speaks candidly with Luke about the evolution of motherhood, the balance between personal and professional life, and the courage it takes to be true to yourself in every chapter of life.

Throughout this heartfelt conversation, Lorena shares why perfection is the enemy of authenticity, the vision behind Live Love Better, and how mindfulness shaped her parenting and leadership style.

This episode is filled with wisdom, warmth, and real-life insight from a woman who lives what she leads.

Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Luke sits down with one of Australia’s most celebrated portrait artists, Vincent Fantauzzo. Known for capturing the souls of icons like Heath Ledger, Paul McCartney, and Australia’s first female Prime Minister - Julia Gillard, Vincent shares the raw and deeply personal journey behind his acclaimed work. From his early life in Melbourne’s commission housing to global success, Vincent embodies resilience, passion, and purpose. Vincent tells Luke how despite the challenges of severe dyslexia and leaving school at 14, he managed to carve a path through creativity, discipline, and sheer determination.

Despite facing severe dyslexia and leaving school at 14, Vincent’s neurodivergence became a catalyst for his creative genius. His remarkable path is a testament to how different minds can lead us to powerful new perspectives. In this raw conversation, Vincent opens up about the emotional process of writing his memoir, how art became his therapy, and why human connection lies at the heart of every portrait he paints. He also reflects on the life-changing influence of his boxing coach and the importance of nurturing children’s individuality and passions.

This episode is a celebration of creativity, courage, and the beauty of seeing—and thinking—differently.

Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Luke Darcy is joined by Dr. Pippa Grange—renowned psychologist, author, and culture coach—for a moving and enlightening conversation on the soul of sport, the power of vulnerability, and the true meaning of performance.

Best known for her groundbreaking work with England’s national football team, Pippa helped shift their fear-driven mindset into one of connection, courage, and psychological freedom. Her influence was pivotal in England’s transformative journey to the 2018 World Cup, and her character and her work is now being portrayed in the award-winning West End play Dear England that explores just how their success became possible.

Pippa’s career began in Australia, advising several AFL teams, before taking on the role of Head of People and Team Development at the Football Association—home of the world’s oldest national football team. Her influence now reaches far beyond sport.

Pippa and Luke discuss the dangers of shallow winning, the regenerative power of love and soul in competition, and the necessity of self-awareness and authentic connection in leadership.

It’s a conversation that encourages you to start thinking about success as a deeper, more fulfilling expression of human potential. We’ve all felt the tension between high performance and personal wellbeing and Pippa has the salve.

Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the world of sports broadcasting, they don’t come much more accomplished - or beloved - than the one and only Bruce McAvaney.

Throughout his career, Bruce has covered an incredible 12 summer Olympic games, 20 AFL Grand Finals, the world swimming and world athletic championships, Rugby World Cup, Melbourne Cup and a slew of others.

In this episode, you’ll hear about the early influences that ignited Bruce’s passion for sport, the mentors who have supported him throughout his career, and why he remains dedicated to doing the same for up-and-coming broadcasters.

Bruce’s almost encyclopaedic knowledge of the sporting world is undoubtedly a result of the extensive preparation he prides himself on, and he tells us why ‘being prepared’ is key advice he gives to young people wanting to follow their dreams.

You'll also hear Bruce talk about the more challenging aspects of being a high-profile media personality, why he’s so excited about 17-year-old Australian sprinter, Gout Gout, how self-doubt still manages to creep in after all these years, and the iconic Olympic moment that caught him off guard.

Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Empowering Leaders, Luke Darcy sits down with one of Australia’s sharpest and funniest stand-ups—comedian and TV host Wil Anderson. From growing up on a farm in country Victoria to making it big on stage and screen, Wil shares the real story behind the laughs and sheds some light on the gray area of comedians crossing the line.

They chat about everything from Wil’s early days idolising Billy Connolly, the hilarious story Wil told Billy when they first met, and how learning to deal with osteoarthritis while staying committed to the craft of stand-up is playing out. Wil talks openly about his creative process, the ups and downs of life in the spotlight, and why curiosity, mindfulness, and backing yourself all play a crucial role in his journey.

It’s a wide-ranging, honest, and bloody entertaining conversation about leadership, resilience, and what it takes to stay true to yourself—on stage and off.

Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Empowering Leaders, host Luke Darcy sits down with Tyson Ballard, a visionary entrepreneur, legal tech innovator, and creative force shaping industries from law to music, lifestyle, and business transformation. As the founder and CEO of Stella Legal, Tyson is revolutionizing legal operations with AI-driven solutions. Beyond the legal world, he’s a music curator, DJ, and co-founder of All My Friends, Everywhere, a collective blending music, art, and travel into immersive experiences as far afield as up in space!

Tyson’s leadership style is bold, innovative, and deeply rooted in collaboration, craftsmanship, and community. His ability to connect ideas across industries is nothing short of inspiring—so much so that, as Luke puts it, if Tyson has an idea, you’d be wise to follow along. You’ll have to make up your own mind when it comes to chasing alligators around golf courses though!

Tyson’s ventures span real estate, tech startups, and biotech among so many more, so enjoy this deep dive into Tyson’s multifaceted world and the insights behind his success in building impactful businesses and communities.

Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Brey is a coaching legend. As the all-time winningest coach in Notre Dame history, he transformed the Fighting Irish into a powerhouse, guiding them to 13 NCAA Tournament appearances, multiple Sweet 16s, and back-to-back Elite Eight runs. Known for his loose yet fiercely competitive coaching style, Mike has mentored countless players, instilled a culture of confidence and resilience, and built lifelong relationships in the game.

Now, as an assistant coach with the Atlanta Hawks, Mike joins Luke to reflect on his coaching journey, the importance of leadership, and the art of building trust within a team. He shares insights on developing young talent like Australian star Dyson Daniels, the lifelong mentorships that shaped his career, and what it takes to build a winning culture—on and off the court. Plus, he reveals the coaching philosophies that have helped him earn the respect of some of basketball’s biggest names, from Mike Krzyzewski to Tom Izzo and Quinn Snyder.

This episode is packed with wisdom, stories, and lessons from one of the most respected minds in basketball.

Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia.

If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders.

Learn. Lead. Collaborate.

Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time.

Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.