Follow the Leader

In this episode of Follow the Leader, host Cassie Silver sits down with Laura Hunter, CEO of the Australian Council on Smoking and Health and ECU science graduate. Laura shares how a Bachelor of Science in nutrition and human biology led to a purpose-driven career in public health advocacy. 

She reflects on formative ECU experiences, the power of volunteering and mentoring, and her fierce commitment to tackling youth vaping and tobacco harm. A must-listen for students and graduates seeking meaningful, impact-focused careers 

This podcast features Dave Hamilton, Director of Performance Science for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. From Olympic coaching to winning the Super Bowl, Dave shares insider insights into elite athlete development, career transitions, and the secrets of high-performance sports. 

 Discover how Dave navigated different sports, worked with world-class athletes like Tom Brady, and learned the true meaning of success. Packed with practical advice and inspiring stories for sports enthusiasts, students, and aspiring professionals looking to understand the world of elite athletic performance. 

In this episode ECU alumnus Christian Wright shares his journey into midwifery. Christian initially had no plans to pursue this field but became inspired by the high rates of preventable maternal deaths in developing countries. 

Christian describes his positive experience at ECU, highlighting the unique practitioner model and the strong support he received from lecturers and peers, even as the only male student. He emphasises the importance of the networking opportunities provided by ECU, which led to valuable connections and experiences, including his work with a midwifery-led charity in Papua New Guinea. 

Christian's story provides an insightful look into the midwifery profession, the benefits of an ECU education, and the power of taking risks to pursue a meaningful career path. Listeners will come away with a deeper appreciation for the role of midwives, especially those who bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the field.

Episode hosted by Cam Black, John Van Emmenis, Cameron Purdy and Emily Kroonenburg

In this episode, we sit down with Candice Rhodes, an ECU alumna who has built an impressive career at Rio Tinto. Candice shares how her time at ECU, including her degree and experiences, shaped her professional journey. 

Candice provides insights on navigating the corporate ladder, the importance of soft skills, and maintaining work-life balance. She also discusses diversity, inclusion, and the power of mentorship in developing resilience.

Episode hosted by Cam Black, John Van Emmenis, Cameron Purdy and Emily Kroonenburg 

Amelia Burke is the Artistic Director of the Western Australian Youth Theatre Company, where she oversees their workshops, training programs, and productions. In the interview, Amelia discusses how her time at ECU shaped her approach to directing and prepared her for a career in the performing arts industry. She talks about the obstacles she faced transitioning from student to professional, and how the connections and mentors she gained at ECU helped her find her path. 

Amelia also shares insights into her creative process, what inspires her work, and the most fulfilling aspects of her career in theatre. 

Overall, the podcast provides an insightful look into Amelia's journey from ECU student to established theatre director, offering valuable advice and perspectives for aspiring performing arts professionals.

Episode hosted by Cam Black, John Van Emmenis, Cameron Purdy and Emily Kroonenburg 

While most university students juggle a part time job while they are studying, few juggle a professional sporting career.  But Tom Carter did exactly that.  In the final few years of his time playing rugby union for the New South Wales Waratahs, Tom completed a Master of Exercise Science (Strength and Conditioning) through ECU. 

When his playing career ended, Tom founded his company Human Performance, working as a consultant, sports scientist and movement coach to professional athletes and sporting teams.  Since 2019 he has also worked at Rugby Australia, currently the Head of Athletic Performance for the Australian Women’s Rugby Sevens, with the team currently preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics. 

In this episode of Follow the Leader, you'll get insights into Tom's journey from a top-level rugby player, to a top-level Strength and Conditioning coach, helping develop Australia's best athletes. 

Jessica Gethin is an award-winning conductor who has captivated audiences worldwide with her exceptional musicianship and dynamic performances. Jessica has earnt acclaim as one of the 'Top Twenty Australian Artists of the Year' by Limelight Magazine and a place in the 'Top 100 Women of Influence' by AFR. Her impact extends beyond her musical prowess; she is a passionate advocate for women in music, serving as Ambassador for Perth Symphony's Women on the Podium initiative. Her leadership both on and off the podium has inspired a new generation of artistic leaders, elevating emerging women artists in her wake.

In this wide-ranging episode, Jessica talks about her full circle journey from WAAPA as a student, to returning to WAAPA as the Head of Orchestral Studies, the obstacles she’s overcome throughout her illustrious career, and shares her tips for aspiring musicians.  

Episode hosted by Jack Fenwick and Olivia Nanut 
Edited by Olivia Nanut 

ECU Engineering graduate Kieran Fazey has been able to achieve what most motorsports students can only dream of - working as a surface design engineer for Formula 1 team, Alpine. In this episode, Kieran talks about his journey from the ECU student racing team to working in Formula 1, the highs (and lows) of working in the high pressure environment of F1, and shares his tips on how to crack into this incredibly competitive industry.

If you're an aspiring motorsports engineer, or you've watched Drive to Survive and love the drama of F1, this episode is one not to miss!

Episode hosted by Jack Fenwick and Olivia Nanut 
Edited by Mya Wilkin 

Having led marketing strategies for incredibly influential global brands including frank green and L’Oreal, Rebecca Smith has established an impressive career as a marketing leader, specialising in using ecommerce and social media campaigns to drive business growth. In this chat, you’ll gain insight into some of the marketing campaigns Rebecca has worked on, as well as valuable advice on networking, staying up-to-date with marketing trends, and inspiring content creators. Rebecca also opens up about overcoming anxiety to pursue new opportunities. This really is an inspiring story of entrepreneurship, marketing strategies, and personal growth.

Episode hosted by Georgia Clark and Annabelle Hughes and edited by Campbell Greaves 

Ben Smith has had quite the career journey to date. Having originally studied sports management, Ben started off in the sports industry, working his way up over time to become Head of Commercial Operations at Basketball Australia, before changing direction into General Manager roles with high profile FMCG brands, 2XU and frank green. Ben discusses how he has been able to pivot between sectors to find new opportunities for growth and learn valuable skills. Ben also offers insights on how he’s balanced family life while traveling extensively. He reflects on key decisions, relationships, and values that have shaped his path and success.

Episode hosted by Georgia Clark and Isobella Boros and edited by Mya Wilkin