THE COURAGE TO LEAD INTERVIEW SERIES

The Roots of Leadership: From Head Boy to Minister

Our conversation began with a look back at Felix's first brush with leadership as the head boy of his primary school in Broome, Kimberley. He candidly shared that he felt ill-prepared at the time and didn't represent his peers as well as he would have liked. This early experience taught him valuable lessons about preparation, focusing on people, and the essence of servant leadership.

The Reality of Trade

We discussed Felix's background as a plumber and gas fitter. The values of hard work, humility, and practical problem-solving were ingrained in him during his apprenticeship. These skills proved invaluable, enabling him to assist individuals from various backgrounds throughout his career as a tradesperson.

Navigating the Challenges of Tasmanian Politics

The conversation then turned to the demanding nature of the Tasmanian state government. Felix attributed his success in this environment to his upbringing, voracious reading habits, and admiration for political leaders who demonstrated courage under pressure. His political interests were sparked by his remote upbringing and the influence of his parents, especially his mother, a remote area nurse.

When discussing the skills he aspires to emulate, Felix listed several political leaders, noting their courage and conviction in serving the public. He also recognised the importance of humility and the pursuit of continuous learning in politics.

A Rapid Rise and the Weight of Responsibility

Felix's ascent in the Tasmanian parliament has been swift, with him now holding multiple significant roles, including being the leader of the house. He spoke of the diverse responsibilities he manages and the rapid progression of his political career.

The Finite Nature of Political Leadership

Felix and I delved into the impact of his senior government positions on his leadership approach, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledged the limited time frame of political leadership and the imperative to make a meaningful impact. Felix emphasised the need to consider the future and the challenges that lie ahead for the next generations, such as an aging population, climate change, and global instability.

The Role of Family in Shaping a Leader

Turning to his personal life, Felix spoke about his wife, Margo, and her role as his moral compass. Their home discussions range from professional matters to the everyday challenges of renovating their old house, illustrating the normalcy behind the public figure.

Empowering Others: The Hallmark of True Leadership

Felix shared his advice for aspiring leaders, stressing the importance of embracing diverse viewpoints, practicing humility, and empowering those around them. He suggested that careers in the military or policing could provide a solid foundation for future politicians, given the skills and life perspectives these roles offer.

Gratitude and Reflections

As our conversation drew to a close, I expressed my gratitude for Felix's openness and insights. His leadership philosophy and personal values offer a blueprint for effective governance and serve as an inspiration for current and future leaders alike. Felix's participation in the interview was not only an honour but also a reminder of the profound impact that thoughtful and courageous leadership can have on society.

In this podcast, we've journeyed through the experiences and insights of Minister Felix Ellis, a leader who embodies the courage and dedication required to navigate the complexities of government and the ever-changing landscape of public service. His story is a testament to the power of humility, hard work, and the relentless pursuit of improvement – principles that can guide us all, regardless of our chosen paths.

Cheryl's remarkable contributions to emergency services in New South Wales have earned her nominations as the Surf Lifesaver of the Year for both New South Wales and Australia.

Collaborative Leadership: A Key to Success

During our talk, Cheryl emphasised the importance of a collaborative approach to leadership. Recognising the diverse skill sets and experiences that each team member brings to the table is crucial. She believes that adapting one's leadership style to embrace and enhance the strengths of the team is essential for success. Her insights on leadership are not just theoretical; they are backed by her impressive nominations, which recognise her exemplary leadership qualities.

Facing Fears and Embracing Challenges

In a lighter moment, Cheryl revealed her fear of elevators, a surprising fact that led to a humorous exchange about the unexpected fears we all face. It's these human moments that remind us that leaders, too, have their vulnerabilities.

Her passion for emergency response and management has been a driving force over the past five years, shaped by her diverse background.

A Journey of Growth and Adaptation

Cheryl's journey is a rich tapestry of experiences, from owning a small business to working in marketing, communications, and fundraising. Her 17 years in Canada, including time spent with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and the University of Calgary, have equipped her with invaluable skills. These experiences have taught her to navigate different organisational environments and to value the contributions of each team member.

Learning from Bureaucracies and Self-Reflection

Cheryl candidly discussed the challenges of adjusting to new leadership and the importance of honest self-reflection. She shared a poignant example of leaving a job due to a lack of communication, yet doing so with professionalism and dignity. Her ability to preserve relationships and learn from mistakes is a powerful lesson for all aspiring leaders.

From Consultancy to Community Leadership

Upon transitioning to Australia, Cheryl continued her consultancy business and became deeply involved in the local community. Her volunteer work at the surf club led to leadership roles in emergency management and response. She drew parallels between event management and emergency management, underscoring the importance of collaboration, communication, and preparedness.

The Impact of the Black Summer Bushfires

Cheryl's involvement in the Rural Fire Service and her experiences during the Black Summer bushfires of 2019-2020 were profound. She recounted the emotional and logistical challenges of managing a large number of people seeking refuge at the surf club. Her story highlighted the power of support, teamwork, and leadership in responding to such a devastating crisis.

Teamwork and Recognition

Throughout our conversation, Cheryl consistently attributed her success to the incredible team she works with. She expressed gratitude for their collaborative efforts and the inspiration they provide. Her humility and recognition of her team's role in her achievements speak volumes about her character as a leader.

Leadership Lessons for Aspiring Leaders

Cheryl's insights on leadership are invaluable. She stressed the importance of communication, reflection, and integrity. Aspiring leaders should prioritise listening, understanding motivations, and making tough decisions for the right reasons. Maintaining integrity, honesty, and inclusivity are non-negotiable traits for effective leadership.

In Conclusion

Our interview with Cheryl McCarthy was not just a conversation; it was a masterclass in leadership. Her experiences during the fires, her humility in acknowledging her team's contributions, and her unwavering commitment to community service are lessons for us all.

Thank you, Cheryl, for your service and for reminding us of the impact one person can have when they lead with courage, compassion, and collaboration.

A Wild Symphony: Shaun Warden's Journey from Music to Wildlife Advocacy

Today, I'm thrilled to share the insights and experiences of Shaun Warden, the remarkable founder of the Growing Food for Wildlife Project, a wildlife rehabilitator, citizen scientist, educator, aspiring vet, violinist, and conductor.

A Symphony of Skills: Shaun Warden's Multifaceted Life

Shaun's journey is a testament to the power of diverse interests converging towards a singular purpose. From his early days mediating disputes among classmates, Shaun recognised his innate leadership abilities. His love for music and historical performance not only led him to become a musician and historian but also shaped his approach to leading community-driven conservation efforts.

Nurturing Nature: The Project's Impact and Expansion

Throughout our conversation, Shaun shared the project's evolution, from its humble beginnings to its recognition by notable figures like Costa Georgiadis from ABC's Gardening Australia. The project's reach has extended to various sites in Sydney, such as Pennant Hills, Flat Rock Gully in Willoughby, and the Randwick Sustainability Centre, as well as a site within Melbourne city in collaboration with Melbourne University.

Overcoming Challenges: The Art of Collaboration

Shaun's ability to bring together different organisations and councils, despite initial resistance, underscores the significance of communication and collaboration. He emphasises the need to prioritise wildlife well-being and the role of mentorship in his personal and professional growth. The project's workshops and educational sessions further highlight the collective effort in wildlife conservation.

Tech Meets Nature: An App for Conservation

In a move to harness technology for environmental good, Shaun discussed the development of an app designed to connect individuals with native plants to wildlife rehabilitators. This innovative tool aims to simplify the process of caring for local wildlife and encourage community participation.

The Harmony of Leadership: Conducting Change

Drawing parallels between his musical background and his leadership style, Shaun reflected on the importance of trust and empowerment. He shared how gardening for wildlife has the power to unite people and mend relationships, demonstrating the unifying force of shared goals.

Life Lessons and Self-Care: The Elastic Band Metaphor

Shaun's personal story of learning the importance of balance and boundaries resonated deeply. He likened life to playing with elastic bands, emphasising the need to challenge oneself without overstretching. His experience with burnout and the crucial role his partner played in finding equilibrium offers a powerful message about self-care and living in the moment.

Parting Wisdom: Empowerment and Purpose

As our conversation drew to a close, Shaun imparted advice for aspiring leaders: listen to the environment, draw inspiration from others, and lead with purpose and heart. His encouragement to set boundaries and focus on self-care is a reminder of the delicate balance required to sustain passion and avoid burnout.

For those eager to learn more about Shaun's incredible work, I invite you to visit the Growing Food for Wildlife Project's website at www.growingfoodforwildlifeproject.org.

It has been an absolute pleasure to host Shaun Warden on my podcast, and I am honoured to share his story with you. His dedication to wildlife conservation and community engagement is a beacon of hope and a call to action for us all. Let us take a leaf out of Shaun's book and strive to make a positive impact in our own communities, one plant, one animal, and one conversation at a time.

In a recent episode of our podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming Lauren Cassimatis, the principal lawyer and director of Gallant Law, the founder of Connecting Lawyer Mums, and an ambassador for She Inspires Me Australia. Lauren's journey is a testament to her innate leadership skills, her passion for problem-solving, and her commitment to community wellbeing.

Advocating for Rehabilitation and Prevention

Lauren, a criminal lawyer, strongly believes in the importance of rehabilitation and prevention of crime in promoting community wellbeing and safety. She argues that punitive measures often do more harm than good. She is proud to support Success Works, an organisation that helps women get back on track and contribute to society.

The Birth of Connecting Lawyer Mums

Connecting Lawyer Mums, initially known as Criminal Law Mums, started with Lauren sharing relatable stories on Instagram. The response from other women was overwhelming, leading to the organisations first networking evening, which saw a surprising turnout of 30 women. This success motivated Lauren to continue organising events centered around resilience, imposter syndrome, and other topics related to wellbeing and empowerment. Within six months, the organisation grew to include over 400 members, prompting the expansion to include lawyers from different areas of law.

Building a Community

Lauren is grateful for the support she has received from the community in organising events. She mentions Michelle Boundy, who helped her source the venue, and a neuropsychologist from the Gold Coast who connected her with donors for a silent auction. She also mentions a Byron Bay lawyer who has a side hustle in fashion and will be putting on a fashion exhibit at their ceremony next year.

The Impact of Connecting Lawyer Mums

Lauren shares two stories of women who were motivated by Connecting Lawyer Mums to start their own law firms. One woman had self-doubt and felt stuck in her current workplace, but through Connecting Lawyer Mums, she gained the confidence to start her own firm. The other woman, a single mom, started her own firm after her husband left her, and she found encouragement and support from other Connecting Lawyer Mums members.

The Journey to Becoming a Lawyer

Lauren shares her upbringing and the values instilled in her by her father and grandmother. Despite facing discouragement from some teachers who doubted her potential, her father always believed in her and supported her aspirations. She pursued legal studies in high school and fell in love with the subject, eventually getting into law school with her father's help.

The Values Behind Gallant Law

When Lauren started her firm, it was just her, but she has since grown her team to 14 members. She carefully recruits individuals who share her values and care about their clients and the community. She wants to challenge the misconception that criminal lawyers are rogues who cause trouble in the community.

The Importance of Believing in Your "Why"

Lauren emphasises the importance of believing in your "why." Understanding why you want to lead, why you want to make a difference, and why you want to pursue your goals is crucial. For Lauren, her overarching why is to show people, especially her children, what women are capable of and the power of kindness.

From Cricket Captain to Cage Fighter: A Journey of Leadership and Self-Discovery with Adam Hollioake

Introduction

A former cricketer and captain of the Surrey cricket team, Adam's journey of leadership and self-discovery is nothing short of inspiring.

The Unexpected Leader

Adam's first experience of leadership came unexpectedly when he was asked to captain the Surrey cricket team at the tender age of 21. Among those who mentored him were cricket legends like Alex Stewart, Graham Thorpe, Saqlain Mushtaq, Azhar Mahmood, and Martin Bicknell. Alex Stewart, in particular, played a pivotal role in helping Adam navigate the responsibilities of captaincy and introduced him to the world of cricket committee meetings.

The Fiery Leader

Adam's fiery and rebellious streak, which initially made others doubt his leadership potential, became a strength as he learned to manage his emotions and anger. His honesty and openness about his struggles and growth as a leader are commendable.

The Spiritual Leader

In a surprising revelation, Adam shared his newfound religious faith. Despite his background in professional boxing and cage fighting, Adam has become quite religious, attending church a couple of times a week. This unexpected interest in religion, influenced by his mother and a self-help book "The Power of Positive Thinking," shows Adam's willingness to explore new ideas and expand his knowledge - a characteristic of a true leader.

The Evolving Leader

Adam's journey as a leader in cricket was not something he aspired to. His initial focus was on being the best cricketer he could be. However, he gradually evolved into a leader, taking the role seriously. By the age of 24, he was already captaining the England Lions, and by 25, he became the captain of the English cricket team.

The Reflective Leader

Adam's leadership journey was not without its ups and downs. He also faced a challenging situation where his own position in the team was being questioned. He made decisions based on others' expectations rather than his own instincts, leading to a loss. This experience taught him the importance of staying true to himself and the pain of regret being worse than the pain of losing.

The Humble Leader

Adam emphasises the importance of humility as a leader. He believes that acknowledging the expertise of others and showing respect for their knowledge creates a positive and productive atmosphere. He also stresses the importance of self-reflection and honesty in understanding oneself.

The Fighter

Adam's transition from cricket to boxing and MMA came after he retired from cricket at the age of 32. He felt lost and needed to be back in a competitive world. Boxing and cricket both require mental toughness, and through boxing, Adam learned to organise his thinking and manage his emotions during fights.

The Resilient Leader

Adam's resilience and perseverance have played a significant role in his life. Despite numerous failures in cricket, fighting, and life, he has learned to overcome these challenges and not let them define him. He is currently involved in mental health initiatives, particularly in men's mental health, and is pursuing a study in sports psychology.

Words of Wisdom

Adam's advice for someone embarking on a leadership journey is not to take oneself too seriously and not to act as if one knows everything just because they are the leader. He emphasises the importance of humility and accepting advice from the people being led.

Conclusion

Adam's journey from cricket captain to cage fighter is a testament to his courage, resilience, and leadership. His insights and experiences provide valuable lessons for anyone embarking on a leadership journey.

As the host of the Courage to Lead Interview Series, I am grateful for Adam's openness and honesty, and I look forward to sharing more inspiring stories of leadership in the future.

I recently had the pleasure of welcoming Stephanie Copus Campbell, Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality, to my podcast.

The Role of Gender Equality in Society

As Australia’s lead advocate on gender equality, Stephanie works under the portfolio of Minister Penny Wong, Australia’s Foreign Minister. She emphasises that when every person has equal opportunities to reach their full potential, society as a whole benefits. She has witnessed the positive impact of gender equality throughout her long career, including happier and more prosperous families, healthier children, higher incomes, and more peaceful and stable communities.

Stephanie also highlights the economic benefits of gender equality, noting that countries with gender equality tend to be more prosperous. However, she acknowledges that women and girls often face greater barriers than men and boys in reaching their full potential due to entrenched social norms and gender perspectives. These barriers can manifest in various sectors, such as education, workforce, and accessing health services.

A Journey from Alaska to Australia

Stephanie’s upbringing in Alaska shaped her values and understanding of community. After studying international relations in the UK, she met her husband, Angus Campbell, who is now the Chief of the Defence Force in Australia. They made the decision to be together, which led Stephanie to drop out of her PhD program and move back to England. They eventually settled in Perth, Western Australia, where Stephanie began her career with the Australian Red Cross, focusing on international humanitarian law.

Balancing Dual Careers and Family

Stephanie and Angus have supported each other’s careers, despite the challenges of being in different countries for extended periods. They have had open discussions and made sacrifices to make their dual careers work. Stephanie emphasises the importance of gender equality in their relationship and how it has enabled her to pursue her career in foreign policy.

The Importance of Vision and Inspiring Leadership

Stephanie believes in the importance of setting a vision and inspiring people to work towards it. She shares an example from her experience in Papua New Guinea, where the urgency of the situation motivated people to step up and take risks. She emphasises the need for a permissive environment for failure, where people can learn from their mistakes and grow.

Leading a Gender Equality Life

When asked for advice on leading a gender equality life, Stephanie emphasises the importance of self-care and having a well-rounded life. She encourages individuals to prioritise their own well-being, as it enables them to better support others. Stephanie shares her own self-care practices, such as surrounding herself with animals and exercising daily.

Everyday Heroes

Stephanie shares a powerful story about an incredible woman she met in Papua New Guinea. This woman was a midwife in a remote village, working without running water or electricity. Despite the challenging conditions, this woman prioritised the needs of her community and found ways to provide holistic care with limited resources. Stephanie greatly admires her and often thinks of her when facing tough times.

The Importance of Self-Care and Support

Stephanie emphasises the importance of seeking support, especially as one advances in their career. She personally relies on good friends and her husband for debriefing and emotional support. She also mentions the significance of finding someone to talk to after witnessing traumatic events or experiencing vicarious trauma.

Hello there,

I'm thrilled to share with you the latest episode of our Courage to Lead podcast series, where we had the privilege of hosting the brilliant Professor Cordelia Fine. A philosopher of science, psychologist, and writer, Cordelia's work on gender differences is both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

1. The First Experience of Leadership: Cordelia believes that our first experience of leadership begins at birth, emphasizing the role of caregiver-baby interactions in shaping our cognitive, social, emotional, and moral development.

2. Challenging Gender Stereotypes: Cordelia's book, "Delusions of Gender," is a deep dive into the scientific evidence behind gender differences. She challenges popular views and stereotypes, making academic ideas accessible to everyone.

3. The Journey to Professorship: Cordelia's path to becoming a professor was unconventional, filled with periods in and out of academia. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of having a safety net.

4. Inherited Resources in Human Development: In her book "Testosterone Rex," Cordelia explores the complexities of the relationship between hormones and behavior. She emphasizes that we inherit not just genes and hormones, but also external resources like caregivers, peers, and cultural artifacts.

5. Closing Gender Gaps: Cordelia highlights the closing or reversing of gender gaps over time, attributing these changes to gendered environments and cultural influences rather than genetic factors.

6. The Importance of a Council of Advisers: Drawing from her experience, Cordelia suggests having an informal council of advisers or a "critical friend" to help prevent making unwise decisions.

I hope these insights spark your curiosity and inspire you to listen to the full episode. Cordelia's wisdom and courage to challenge the status quo are truly inspiring.

You can find Cordelia's books, "Delusions of Gender" and "Testosterone Rex," at reputable booksellers and online platforms. Remember, supporting authors by purchasing from legitimate sources is crucial.

Stay tuned for more exciting episodes of Courage to Lead. Until then, keep learning and leading!

Best, Allan Sicard

Hello there,

I'm thrilled to share with you some exciting insights from our latest podcast episode of the Courage to Lead series. This time, we had an enlightening discussion on resilience with four distinguished leaders: Carlene York, Amy Brown, Mick Willing, and Peter Scott.

The Resilience Factor: Our panelists shared their personal experiences, emphasising the importance of resilience in overcoming setbacks. Carlene and Mick, both having faced unexpected departures from their respective organisations, highlighted how resilience helped them bounce back and continue their journey.

Support Systems: The panelists unanimously agreed on the significance of having a strong support system. Whether it's trusted mentors, friends, or family, these relationships can provide the necessary support during challenging times.

Authentic Leadership: Amy stressed the importance of authenticity and culture in organisations. A culture where people feel comfortable being themselves and expressing their ideas is crucial for navigating challenges and seizing opportunities.

The Power of Purpose: Peter pointed out that resilience is not just about overcoming adversity, but also about adapting and thriving during successful periods. He emphasised the importance of purpose in fostering resilience.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities: Carlene shared her experience leading the State Emergency Services during crises like floods and the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasised the importance of being positive and proactive, turning challenges into opportunities.

The Importance of Self-Care: Peter reminded us that self-care is crucial for leaders. It enables them to make good decisions and effectively serve others.

The Constant Value of Individuals: Amy encouraged listeners to remember their worth, regardless of their circumstances, and to look for the positive aspects even in challenging times.

I'm incredibly grateful to our panel for their candidness and the dynamic discussion we had. I hope their stories inspire you as much as they inspired me.

Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation. Tune in to our latest podcast episode and let's continue to learn and grow together!

Best, Alan

I'm thrilled to share with you the latest episode of our "Courage to Lead" series, where we had the pleasure of hosting Michelle Bundy, the inspiring leader behind the "She Inspires Me" movement and the "Tell Your Story" initiative.

1. The Power of Persistence: Michelle shared her first leadership experience, where she led a major wellbeing reform in the state government. Despite facing opposition and disciplinary action, she never gave up. Her initiatives like Wellness Wednesday and Fresh Fruit Friday impacted thousands of workers, a testament to her courage and determination.

2. The Human Side of Leadership: Michelle opened up about her personal struggles, reminding us that even the strongest leaders have their moments of vulnerability. She also shared her journey of resilience, from her son's tragic incident to her own battles with self-doubt.

3. The Unexpected Path: Michelle's journey into modelling and her return to it at the age of 52 is a fascinating story of seizing opportunities and breaking societal norms. It's a reminder that it's never too late to pursue your passions.

4. The Power of Kindness: Michelle's work with the Salvation Army and the Alison Baden Clay Foundation highlights her commitment to serving others. Her passion for supporting women and helping them move forward from difficult situations is truly inspiring.

5. The Birth of "She Inspires Me": Michelle's initiative, born out of a desire to celebrate women's contributions and achievements, has become a platform for sharing inspiring stories and building each other up.

6. Connect with Michelle: You can find Michelle on LinkedIn, her website, She Inspires Me Australia, and on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Don't forget to check out our co-hosted podcast, "She Has the Courage to Lead."

7. Living Life to the Fullest: Michelle's perspective on embracing aspirations, cutting off toxic relationships, and surrounding oneself with supportive people is a valuable lesson for us all.

I hope Michelle's story inspires you as much as it did me. Remember, it's never too late to take charge of your life and create your own story.

Until next time,

Allan

Discover the Power of Resilience and Well-being in Leadership

I'm thrilled to share with you the latest episode of the Courage to Lead Interview Series, where I had the pleasure of hosting Fleur Heazlewood, an award-winning author and founder of the Blueberry Institute.

Fleur's journey is a testament to resilience and well-being in leadership. She shared her experiences as a young female leader in a male-dominated industry, facing adversity, bullying, and even manipulation. Yet, she stood her ground, advocating for herself and others, and setting a new standard for leadership.

Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

Leadership and Well-being: Fleur's first true experience of leadership was during the global financial crisis. She made a bold decision to prioritise her employees' well-being over commercial requirements, proving that doing right by people is also right for business.

The Importance of Psychological Safety: Fleur emphasised the need for a safe and supportive work environment. She believes that no one should be treated poorly because of differences or needing help.

The Power of Resilience: Fleur's personal journey of resilience is inspiring. She faced burnout, recovered, and used her experiences to educate others about the importance of well-being in the workplace.

Well-being as a Business Strategy: Fleur demonstrated that investing in well-being is also an investment in business performance. She shared a case study where a company saw significant improvements in engagement, reduced absenteeism, and safety incidents after implementing a well-being and resilience training program.

The Role of Books: Fleur sees her books as an act of service, sharing the strategies and techniques she teaches in her programs. She prefers speaking and facilitating over writing, valuing the dialogue and interaction with people.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to share Fleur's wisdom with you. Her story is a reminder that resilience and well-being are not just personal pursuits but essential elements of effective leadership.

I encourage you to listen to the full episode and discover more about Fleur's inspiring journey.

Until next time, keep leading with resilience and well-being.