Kintsugi Heroes

Greg grew up in a family of six, surrounded by love and support. This big family environment shaped his inclusive and communal mindset.

Successful in various sports, including swimming and basketball, Greg achieved an elite level. His curiosity drove him to explore multiple sporting disciplines.

Greg's career began in education, progressed into architecture, and eventually led him to counselling. His diverse job roles included teaching, cleaning, and coaching.

With extensive training and education, Greg found his true calling in counselling. He specifically helps men through their bereavement and loss journeys.

Adopting meditation and embracing joy, Greg evolved from a shy individual to a person full of life and curiosity. Happiness is a transient emotion, but joy is everlasting for him.

The loss of his daughter, Tabitha Rose, profoundly impacted Greg. It inspired him to work with Bears of Hope, supporting grieving parents through their healing journey.

Greg channels his love for music into therapeutic drumming. He conducts workshops that build community and connection, helping others find their rhythm in life.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

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Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Mentioned in this episode:

Support Kintsugi Heroes

Kintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit, and every story we share is free for the people who need it. If this show has meant something to you, you can help us keep going. Visit kintsugiheroes.com.au and click donate. Every contribution helps us keep telling these stories, and it's tax-deductible.

Thank You For Listening

Follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, or share your own story at kintsugiheroes.com.au. Your story matters.

Born in Brighton, England, Sean moved to Australia at age seven. His dad’s Irish heritage led them to Fremantle, beginning a life of adventure in Perth.

At 15, Sean's navy dream ended due to colourblindness. He joined the Western Australian Police Academy in 1978, quickly finding his passion in policing.

Sean served 15 years in the police, including the Tactical Response Group in 1985, fulfilling a lifelong ambition with thrilling, high-stakes operations.

Leaving the Tactical Response Group in the early '90s due to internal conflicts, Sean faced anger and disillusionment, leading to transitioning struggles and bouts of PTSD.

In the mid-'90s, Sean moved to Sydney, reuniting with his partner Julie. He briefly worked as an ambulance officer, finding new purpose and establishing deeper roots.

Shifting to corporate security, Sean worked globally, regaining confidence and skills. In 2017, he co-founded Beyond the Badge, aiding police and first responders in career transitions.

Today, Sean focuses on improving mental health support for first responders, playing golf, and continuously expanding Beyond the Badge.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank You For Listening

Follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, or share your own story at kintsugiheroes.com.au. Your story matters.

Support Kintsugi Heroes

Kintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit, and every story we share is free for the people who need it. If this show has meant something to you, you can help us keep going. Visit kintsugiheroes.com.au and click donate. Every contribution helps us keep telling these stories, and it's tax-deductible.

Judith was the youngest of eight in a Catholic family. Despite a comfortable life, she faced traumatic experiences, including sexual abuse by priests from an early age.

The abuse and violence she suffered profoundly shaping her programming and she developed beliefs of unworthiness and self-punishment. In secondary school, Judith endured further abuse, by a nun. Her suffering attracted more harmful relationships as she grew older.

She suffered severe  physical issues, leading to surgeries and years of pain. A life-threatening condition and tapping therapy showed her the healing power of the mind.

For seven years  Judith lived a rugged life in a tin shed, hiding from perpetrators. She faced extreme conditions and physical limitations. In 2011, she had a mental breakdown, but this period of physical and mental issues, paved the way for the life-saving therapy she developed, The Richards Trauma Process TRTP which has helped thousands overcome trauma and distress. 

This process resolves psychological trauma-related issues, such as PTSD, anxiety and depression - generally in 3 sessions. She has been teaching TRTP to health and mental health professionals for 12 years – medical doctors, clinical psychologists, psychotherapists, coaches etc. The first research study, in collaboration with Melbourne University, showing the efficacy of TRTP is about to be published.

https://trtptherapy.com/

YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@TheRichardsTraumaProcess/videos

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/therichardstraumaprocess

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Mentioned in this episode:

Support Kintsugi Heroes

Kintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit, and every story we share is free for the people who need it. If this show has meant something to you, you can help us keep going. Visit kintsugiheroes.com.au and click donate. Every contribution helps us keep telling these stories, and it's tax-deductible.

Thank You For Listening

Follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, or share your own story at kintsugiheroes.com.au. Your story matters.

Born and raised in Queensland, Tynan was a painting apprentice, living a typical young man’s life, when a tragic accident at 19 caused serious injuries, including a brain injury and coma. Doctors doubted his recovery, setting the stage for a long, tough journey ahead.

Despite predictions, Tynan endured relentless medical appointments and rehab sessions. He fought through pain, defied expectations, and relearned basic physical and mental skills.

Inspired by watching the Hawaiian Ironmen, Tynan set an ambitious goal to complete the race. This became a symbol of his defiance against limiting prognoses and negative forecasts.

Tynan not only completed his first Ironman but also enrolled in university where he earned a Master’s degree in social work.

Today, Tynan is a key figure in Queensland’s health sector. He’s involved with numerous organisations, driving mental health support and shaping policies, especially for men’s mental wellbeing.

A devoted dad and mental health advocate, Tynan balances personal challenges while aiding others. His journey from trauma to transformation continues to inspire and influence those around him.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank You For Listening

Follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, or share your own story at kintsugiheroes.com.au. Your story matters.

Support Kintsugi Heroes

Kintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit, and every story we share is free for the people who need it. If this show has meant something to you, you can help us keep going. Visit kintsugiheroes.com.au and click donate. Every contribution helps us keep telling these stories, and it's tax-deductible.

Growing up in Adelaide, Robyn was a fiercely curious child, devouring books from the library and mastering puns, all while driving her parents mad with endless questions.

Bored with school, Robyn discovered a love for adventure by exploring forbidden coffee clubs and later worked for the weapons research establishment, becoming a steno secretary for a top-secret project.

Leaving a stable but uneventful marriage, Robyn built a fishing vessel and spent ten years professionally fishing, tackling cyclones, crocodiles, and men, while cruising between New Guinea and Queensland.

Robyn lived in the wild, mingling closely with Aboriginal elders and communities, respecting and sharing their profound knowledge and traditions.

After an unexpected spiritual awakening, Robyn immersed herself in Buddhism, and teachings that resonate deeply with her adventurous spirit.

Currently based in Katoomba, Robyn shares her vibrant life stories and wisdom through community radio. She is a beloved local figure, an official "witty public nuisance of Katoomba."

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Diagnosed with severe asthma and later Addison’s disease, Martin faced numerous health scares, including pancreatitis and septic shock, early in life.

Growing up in the late '80s, Martin dealt with being gay during the HIV/AIDS crisis, influenced by negative media. He came out as gay at 27, despite fears and societal stereotypes, marking a significant milestone in his personal journey.

Overcoming personal health battles and social pressures Martin started a career in telecommunications, demonstrating his resilience and adaptability. Boxing, initially seen as a means of self-defence, soon became a passion and a way for Martin to channel his fight against societal and personal hurdles.

Dedicated to creating inclusive spaces in sports, Martin founded the World Gay Boxing Championships, breaking barriers and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in combat sports. He emerged as a voice against homophobia, tackling misconceptions and promoting dignity, respect, and courtesy across social media and public platforms.

Martin has written a  book on courage, and is now  developing workbooks and a consulting service to foster courage in executive leadership and entrepreneurial arenas.

He threw a ceremonial pitch at a Chicago Cubs pride game and continues to build community spirit through various inclusivity events and mentoring initiatives. Martin aspires to end homophobia in sports, fostering an inclusive, supportive Australian boxing community while inspiring others to face their fears with courage and confidence.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank You For Listening

Follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, or share your own story at kintsugiheroes.com.au. Your story matters.

Support Kintsugi Heroes

Kintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit, and every story we share is free for the people who need it. If this show has meant something to you, you can help us keep going. Visit kintsugiheroes.com.au and click donate. Every contribution helps us keep telling these stories, and it's tax-deductible.

Asher feels a deep connection to Byron Bay where he grew up. His father's complex history, shaped Asher's upbringing and their challenging relationship led to an early estrangement, but Asher is now committed to healing and reconnecting with his father.

Initially he pursued a successful corporate career Asher found himself dissatisfied despite others perceiving him as successful.

The loss of his sister was a pivotal turning point, leading him to reassess his life path and priorities with a new clarity. Shortly after losing his mother, Asher was diagnosed with a type of blood cancer, prompting him to explore alternative wellness options like the Wim Hof Method.

He became a certified HeartMath consultant and Wim Hof Method practitioner, and organised a meditation course for men, which evolved into a global year-long program, emphasising connection and personal growth.

Asher's early work focused on the "warrior" archetype, but he soon evolved, recognising the need for balance between strength and vulnerability in masculine identity.

He reframes grief as praise and highlights the transformative power of dealing with it properly within the context of manhood and emotional intimacy.

Asher's community, the Fifth Direction, includes men and women, honouring poetry as a soul language with works from Rumi, Rilke, and Robert Bly.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Luke Cook, an only child raised by his extroverted mother, developed a knack for socialising early. His father's passing at age 4 deeply influenced his life's perspective.

Engaging in drama and public speaking during his school years, Luke showed a passion for storytelling and captivating audiences with his charisma and humour.

At 19, he started his radio career, earning the nickname "Lightning Luke" while handing out promotional items, and quickly became a beloved personality in the local community.

Transitioning from radio, Luke ventured into media and advertising paving the way for his entrepreneurial endeavours in the future.

At 39 Luke faced a significant emotional journey, losing his business and best friend, and reflecting on his father's death. These experiences profoundly impacted his outlook and aspirations.

Luke's platform, Cuppa, was born from a desire to connect stories and foster personal growth. It became a space for diverse voices, encouraging meaningful conversations and mutual understanding with open, honest dialogue.

Luke promotes supportive dialogues with men, without unsolicited opinions, which encourages a healthier emotional culture. He advocates for starting the day with a phone free morning routine, encouraging mindfulness and intentionality.

Luke’s goal is to create impactful media content like documentaries and shows, driven by compassion and a desire to make a difference.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank You For Listening

Follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, or share your own story at kintsugiheroes.com.au. Your story matters.

Support Kintsugi Heroes

Kintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit, and every story we share is free for the people who need it. If this show has meant something to you, you can help us keep going. Visit kintsugiheroes.com.au and click donate. Every contribution helps us keep telling these stories, and it's tax-deductible.

Born in Melbourne, Jamie faced adoption and an early ADHD diagnosis, but found solace and focus through sports, especially tennis and soccer.

When he was six, Jamie moved to Alice Springs with his adoptive mother. Despite a rough environment, sports remained his constant anchor. He excelled in tennis, earning a sports scholarship and turning pro at 16. However, intense pressure led to burnout and eventual withdrawal at 18. Jamie’s first major burnout sparked a journey of self-discovery. He returned to university, then business school, influenced by his socially active father.

Entering the tech world, Jamie thrived quickly relocating to San Francisco to expand operations. The success was thrilling, but burnout struck again. Post-tech burnout, Jamie turned to buying and selling small businesses, founding a brokerage. But another burnout pushed him to reassess his path.

Multiple burnouts led Jamie to explore "flow," an optimal state for peak performance. He used diverse methods like yoga, breathwork, and ice baths. Reframing ADHD as a strength, Jamie founded Flo Jo, a coaching program to help entrepreneurs harness their neurodivergence for fulfilment and success.

Jamie’s struggles with anxiety and depression fuel his advocacy for mental health, pushing for authentic communication and embracing one’s unique path. Jamie now focuses on writing, public speaking, and helping ADHD entrepreneurs. He seeks authentic connections, meaningful work, and a balanced life journey.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank You For Listening

Follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, or share your own story at kintsugiheroes.com.au. Your story matters.

Support Kintsugi Heroes

Kintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit, and every story we share is free for the people who need it. If this show has meant something to you, you can help us keep going. Visit kintsugiheroes.com.au and click donate. Every contribution helps us keep telling these stories, and it's tax-deductible.

Ben’s passion for music was sparked early, paving the way to his musical journey. He was inspired by childhood road trips, family music collections blending classical and popular tunes. Ben’s academic path intertwined with creative pursuits of music and theatre when he attended ANU in Canberra before furthering his studies at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver.

In 2004, Ben jumped into the music scene, playing with various bands. These experiences honed his skills and later on fuelled his ambition for solo projects. Ben’s first songwriting effort came during a tumultuous relationship while studying in Canada, turning emotional highs and lows into a creative outlet.

At 41, Ben’s ADHD diagnosis brought clarity to his mental health challenges, particularly around rejection-sensitive dysphoria, reframing his past experiences and boosting his self-awareness.

From Nirvana in adolescence to band gigs, music continuously served as Ben’s personal therapy, helping him manage life’s ups and downs. Through merging music, theatre, and social justice, Ben recognised the therapeutic power of storytelling. He is dedicated to aiding marginalised communities through shared artistic experiences.

Although he contemplated a corporate job, Ben followed his passion for music and in 2024, he committed to a long-term sustainable career where he expresses his creativity and authenticity. Ben’s music extends beyond performance, aiming to create inclusive spaces for dialogue and personal advocacy. He also supports mental health charities through his work.

Focused on fostering deep connections with his audience, Ben strives for a meaningful career. “Squirrel Brains and Growing Pains” hints at new, innovative community-centred projects on the horizon.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This episode of Kintsugi Heroes was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at cbf.org.au.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank You For Listening

Follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, or share your own story at kintsugiheroes.com.au. Your story matters.

Support Kintsugi Heroes

Kintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit, and every story we share is free for the people who need it. If this show has meant something to you, you can help us keep going. Visit kintsugiheroes.com.au and click donate. Every contribution helps us keep telling these stories, and it's tax-deductible.