Lead with Courage

Guest: Nat Cook – Olympian & Advocate for Aussie Athletes

In this inspiring episode, five-time Olympian and Olympic gold medallist Nat Cook sits down with Cherie to share the real story behind elite sport, the courage, resilience, and grit required to compete at the highest level, and the often unseen challenges that come after the medals.

Nat opens up about:

• The raw truth of leading with courage: why courage only exists alongside fear, and the importance of being bold enough to take the first step — even when terrified.
• Her journey through five Olympic Games, including the mindset shifts from "failure isn’t an option" to embracing resilience and bouncing back stronger.
• A powerful lesson she learned on the sand during competition: “No one’s coming”  the brutal but liberating advice to own your journey and never wait for rescue.
• The real cost of a sporting career, including retiring with significant debt, no superannuation, and no formal degree  and how this inspired her to create and champion the Aussie Athlete Fund to support the next generation.
• How sport and leadership lessons translate into everyday life — from managing pressure to building resilience, to leading yourself when no one else will.
• Her call to arms for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics: why staying in your city and being part of this moment is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for individuals, families, and communities.

Nat also shares fun and personal stories about her love for golf, the importance of networks, and her ongoing mission to empower young athletes to not only survive but thrive in their careers and beyond.

If you want a fresh perspective on leadership, courage, and resilience from someone who’s lived it on the world’s biggest stage this episode is a must-listen.

https://aussieathletefund.com/
https://nataliecook.com/
https://au.linkedin.com/in/nataliecookoamoly
https://www.instagram.com/natcook_official/

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

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Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

In this episode, Cherie is joined by real estate powerhouse and entrepreneur Hayley Van De Ven, owner of multiple RE/MAX businesses and ambassador for Four Voices. Together, they explore what it means to lead with courage — from navigating tough conversations and setting boundaries, to building magnetic culture and a strong personal brand.

Hayley shares her journey from a teenage Kiwi receptionist to CEO of five businesses, including three RE/MAX offices and a thriving virtual assistant company. Her story is one of values-driven leadership, resilience, and unwavering authenticity. Whether you're an aspiring leader or seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is packed with relatable lessons and bold inspiration.

Key Takeaways

• What “lead with courage” means to Hayley
• The secret to creating values-led culture
• Her powerful morning routine and energy rituals
• Balancing leadership, parenting, and personal ambition
• How to handle rejection and build sales resilience
• Growing from one RE/MAX office to five businesses
• The importance of personal brand and showing up as your best self
• Hayley’s impactful role as an ambassador for Four Voices

Some of Hayley’s Mic Drop Moments:

Resources & Mentions:

• Four Voices – Support for women facing domestic violence, homelessness & isolation
• Sonia Stradiotto Couture – Power suits for powerful women
• Vinnies CEO Sleepout – National fundraiser to support homelessness services

Connect with Hayley Van De Ven

💼 RE/MAX Results | Bayside | Bayside Properties:

• Website: https://www.remaxresults.com.au
• Facebook: facebook.com/REMAXResultsQLD
• Instagram: @remaxresults
• LinkedIn (Office): RE/MAX Results

👤 Hayley Van De Ven:

• Instagram:

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

What does it take to lead with trust, resilience, and courage—both in the pool and in the boardroom? In this episode of Lead with Courage, Cherie Canning sits down with Olympian-turned-entrepreneur Toby Jenkins to explore the lessons he’s learned from elite sport and leadership.

Toby, a former Australian water polo player and now Executive Coach, knows firsthand the power of trust under pressure. He shares how his Olympic journey shaped his leadership philosophy and how the same principles of teamwork, discipline, and psychological safety apply to business and beyond.

Together, Cherie and Toby dive into why trust is the ultimate competitive advantage, how leaders can create environments where people feel safe to take risks, and the small yet powerful actions that build deeper connections. With practical strategies and real-world insights, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired to lead with more authenticity, courage, and impact.

If you're looking to elevate your leadership, strengthen relationships, and create high-performing teams, this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss!

Resources:

Psychological Flexibility Test

Connect with Toby

Website: https://www.tobyajenkins.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobyjenkins/

Instagram @tobyjenkins

X: Toby_Jenkins

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

In this episode of Lead with Courage, Cherie Canning speaks with workplace strategist and author Melissa Marsden about how the design of our work environments can significantly impact our well-being, productivity, and overall fulfillment. Melissa shares her expertise on creating spaces that support both individual and collective success by considering factors such as culture, leadership, and employee experience.

Drawing from her book The Next Workplace, Melissa emphasizes the importance of designing workplaces that align with human needs rather than forcing people to fit into rigid, outdated models. She also highlights how leaders can cultivate environments that foster creativity, collaboration, and engagement.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Workplace Design Affects Performance: Thoughtful workplace design can enhance productivity, creativity, and well-being. It’s not just about aesthetics but how spaces function to support people.

✅ Culture and Leadership Matter: A workplace’s success isn’t just about physical space; culture and leadership play a critical role in how employees feel and perform.

✅ The Future of Work is Human-Centered: Organizations need to rethink traditional office models and design workspaces that prioritize flexibility, connection, and purpose.

✅ Aligning Space with Strategy: The best workplaces are designed intentionally to reflect and reinforce company values, goals, and the unique needs of their teams.

✅ Practical Tips for Leaders: Melissa shares actionable insights for leaders looking to create more engaging and effective work environments, whether in-office, hybrid, or remote.

Resources:
Two Wolves

Contact Melissa

https://www.melissamarsden.com.au/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamarsden/

Instagram: @melmar

X: /melissamarsden1

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

In this episode of the Lead with Courage podcast, Cherie welcomes Leanne Hughes, a dynamic facilitator, speaker, and podcast host known for pushing boundaries in leadership and learning. Leanne shares her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped her career—including an unexpected challenge in a leadership workshop that ultimately led her to launch the First Time Facilitator podcast.

Cherie and Leanne dive into themes of personal branding, innovation in facilitation, and the courage required to stand out and take risks. Leanne reflects on the importance of embracing failure, stepping off the "Hesitation Station," and the power of saying "yes" to opportunities, even when they feel daunting—like cold-messaging cricket legend Justin Langer, which led to an unforgettable moment.

The conversation also explores the future of leadership development in the age of AI, the significance of personal energy management, and the value of building meaningful connections. As a special moment, Leanne turns the tables on Cherie, encouraging her to share her aspirations for writing a Lead with Courage book.

With humour, wisdom, and a wealth of insights, this episode is an inspiring reminder that leading with courage means trusting yourself, embracing bold decisions, and always staying curious.

https://www.leannehughes.com/

https://podcast.leannehughes.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannehughes/

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

Shea Morrison, co-founder of The Goodnight Co. and a corporate wellness facilitator specialising in sleep health join Cherie for the first episode of season 3. Cherie and Shea explore the crucial role of sleep in leadership, well-being, and performance, as well as practical strategies for improving sleep quality.

Key Insights from the Conversation:

1. The Importance of Sleep in Leadership & Well-being – Good sleep enhances resilience, decision-making, and emotional regulation, making it essential for effective leadership.
2. Shifting the Narrative Around Sleep – Historically, sleep deprivation was seen as a badge of honor, but the conversation is shifting toward recognising sleep as a key pillar of health alongside diet and exercise.
3. Practical Tips for Better Sleep – Shea shares strategies such as maintaining a consistent sleep routine, managing light exposure, and prioritising rest and recovery.
4. Workplace Sleep Awareness – Leaders should understand their team's sleep challenges, encourage recovery breaks, and promote a culture that values rest to enhance productivity and well-being.
5. Sleep & the Bigger Picture – Sleep impacts long-term health, brain function, and overall quality of life. Small, consistent habits can make a significant difference in improving sleep.

The discussion highlights the importance of personalized sleep strategies, breaking unhealthy cycles, and integrating sleep awareness into corporate culture. Shea also shares her journey from a fast-paced media career to co-founding The Goodnight Co., emphasising the power of living authentically.

https://www.thegoodnightco.com.au/

Instagram: thegoodnightco

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

Cherie sits down with Cooper Chapman, former professional surfer and founder of the Good Human Factory, for an inspiring and deeply reflective conversation. Cooper shares his transformative journey of moving from chasing external validation to living authentically through his core values. Together, they explore the significance of shifting from mental health awareness to action, the life-changing power of gratitude, and how small, consistent steps can lead to a more meaningful and impactful life.

Drawing on his experiences as an athlete, Cooper reveals the pivotal moments that reshaped his mindset, from overcoming a victim mentality to embracing mindfulness and intentional living. He also talks about the creation of the 1% Good Club, a global community that encourages daily practices of gratitude and meditation—positively influencing thousands of lives.

In this episode, Cherie and Cooper dive into the role of empathy in leadership, the importance of actionable habits for mental well-being, and how incorporating values into daily life can create long-lasting change.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that progress, not perfection is the key to thriving in life and leadership. Whether you're looking to build resilience, lead with courage, or inspire growth in others, this episode is packed with practical insights and meaningful takeaways to help you live a more fulfilled and values-driven life.

Instagram: @cooperchapman and @thegoodhumanfactory

Website thegoodhumanfactory.com

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

In this inspiring episode, hosts Cherie and Andy Canning welcome Dr. Dinesh Palipana, a trailblazing leader and changemaker, to the Lead with Courage podcast. As the second person with quadriplegia to graduate as a doctor in Australia and an advocate for inclusivity, Dinesh shares his unique perspective on life, leadership, and the importance of courage.

This conversation delves into Dinesh’s remarkable journey, from a life-changing car accident to becoming a doctor, lawyer, and author. Through personal anecdotes and thought-provoking reflections, Dinesh explores how perspective and empathy shape effective leadership and how purpose can bring meaning to our lives. Whether it’s his experiences in Sri Lanka, the values he lives by, or the impact of gratitude, Dinesh’s insights offer powerful lessons for leaders at all stages.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• What “leading with courage” means and why courage is integral to leadership.
• How Dinesh’s accident transformed his life and taught him to view challenges as opportunities for growth.
• The role of empathy and perspective in creating impactful leadership.
• Why purpose and values are essential in navigating life’s complexities.
• Practical advice on embracing gratitude and staying present in the moment.

Notable Quotes:

• “Courage is part of what makes up leadership—you can’t separate the two.”
• “The world is a reflection of ourselves. Perspective and gratitude can transform even the hardest days.”
• “Empathy isn’t just understanding those who are similar to us; it’s about bridging divides and creating unity.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Dinesh Palipana’s book: Stronger
• The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday
• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Connect with Dr. Dinesh Palipana:

• Instagram: @dinesh.palipana

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

In this episode of Lead with Courage,  Cherie Canning has an eye-opening conversation with Jess Taylor, CEO of Qendo, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting individuals with endometriosis. Jess shares her personal journey with the chronic condition, reflecting on years of silent suffering, stigmatisation, and misdiagnoses before discovering her own voice and purpose through Qendo. Her story unveils the challenges faced by countless women living with endometriosis and details her inspiring transformation from patient to passionate advocate.

Throughout the episode, Cherie and Jess discuss the significance of bringing endometriosis—and women’s health more broadly—into the workplace. Jess describes how a lack of awareness and support in professional settings often leaves women struggling to balance careers with the demands of managing a chronic condition. She shares the steps Quendo has taken to educate workplaces, normalize discussions around endometriosis, and empower women to advocate for their health without fear or shame.

Listeners will gain insight into Jess’s work advocating for policy change, her mission to increase education and resources, and the tools Qendo offers to help workplaces better support employees affected by endometriosis. Jess also shares practical tips on how leaders can foster an inclusive environment that acknowledges health as a critical factor in workplace wellbeing.

This episode offers lessons on resilience, courage, and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding women’s health. It’s a powerful call to action for leaders, employees, and allies to create supportive spaces that honour the complex health journeys of women everywhere.

https://www.qendo.org.au/

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

In this insightful and heartwarming episode of the Lead with Courage podcast, host Cherie Canning and guest host Andy Canning sit down with Macca (Macaulay Ryan) from LSKD, a passionate runner and Movember ambassador. They dive into Macca's incredible journey of personal growth, mental health awareness, and the power of running.

Macca shares how his love for running transformed his life, from pushing through the tough moments to becoming an advocate for mental wellness. He discusses the symbolism behind his "Just Keep Running" tattoo and how it applies to both running and life’s challenges. Macca also opens up about his own struggles with mental health after a difficult breakup and how his dog, Kendrick, became his emotional support and life-changer.

The conversation explores Macca's journey to becoming a Movember ambassador, his commitment to raising mental health awareness, and the inspiring events he's spearheaded, including running 100km around a 1.8km loop as part of Movember’s fundraising efforts. The team also touches on Macca's unique approach to ultra-marathon running, where discipline and mental strength take centre stage.

This episode covers the intersection of running, mental health, and resilience, and hear how Macca embodies the LSKD values of moving fast, learning from mistakes, and always striving for one percent better.

Links & Resources:

• Follow Macca on Instagram: @macauleyryan_ and Linkedin 
• Learn more about LSKD and their Run Club: LSKD
• Support Movember: Movember Australia
• Furball 2024 Event: Furball Tickets

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.