In this episode, we sit down with Mario (Drac) Matijevic — part time actor, drummer, manager, junior soccer coach, and proud dad of two girls. Growing up in Geelong, Mario shares fond memories of attending footy games with his mum and how her love for the Cats shaped his own passion for sport and community.

We dive into his journey through acting and performing, the joy and mindfulness he finds in playing drums, and the life lessons he’s learned from coaching his daughters’ soccer team.

At its heart, this episode is about gratitude — appreciating what you have, where you are, and the people who make the ride worthwhile.

Tune in for a chat full of warmth, laughs, and a reminder to take stock of the good stuff.

Episode 5 – Darren O’Conner: Dedication, Family & Community

In this episode of the DadHavinACrack Podcast, we sit down with Darren O’Conner – a dad, community leader, and man of quiet determination.

Darren shares his story of growing up in North Queensland before moving to Toowoomba for university and later spending two years at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA). Motivated deeply by his mother’s cancer diagnosis, Darren has dedicated much of his career to pharmaceutical logistics, driven by a passion to make a difference in the lives of families facing similar battles.

We also talk about his father’s tireless efforts in raising funds for the Cancer Council, a commitment that continues to inspire Darren’s own path of service. Beyond his professional life, Darren leads as the president of the Stars Junior Basketball Club, giving back to the next generation while balancing the most important role of all – being a dad.

This is a story of resilience, family values, and community dedication.

In this episode of Dad Havin’ A Crack, I sit down with Joel Gniel to dive into the moments that have shaped his life and family.

Joel shares what life looked like before meeting his wife Kate in Bali, and how that chance encounter set him on a new path. We talk about his time living in Adelaide and the move back to Melbourne, his love for sport and the Collingwood Football Club, and how music has been a constant thread in his journey.

But it’s not all about passion and pastimes — Joel also opens up about a powerful, life-changing moment that tested and strengthened his family in ways that will stay with them forever.

This conversation is about presence, resilience, and finding joy in the now — even when life throws challenges your way.

👉 Tune in to hear Joel’s story of family, passion, and what it truly means to live in the moment.

💜 If this episode resonates with you, we’d love for you to support causes close to Joel and Kate’s heart.

Please consider donating to the Starlight Children’s Foundation and the Monash Children’s Hospital. And while you’re at it, check out Kate’s inspiring podcast, The Glitter Effect – [link included below].

Donate To Starlight Today

Donate To Monash Children's Hospital

The Glitter Effect Podcast - Apple

The Glitter Effect Podcast - Spotify

Dad Havin A Crack Instagram

Episode 3: Duty, Discipline & Deep Loss – A Conversation with John Rhodes

This episode contains discussion of sensitive topics, including death and mental health. Some listeners may find this content distressing. Please take care while listening, and if you need support, reach out to a trusted friend, your GP, or a support service in your area.

In this episode of The Dad Havin A Crack Podcast, we sit down with John Rhodes – former New South Wales Police Inspector, proud dad, and a man who’s lived through both incredible highs and heartbreaking lows.

John opens up about the reality of family life while being away for work – the strain it puts on relationships, the moments missed, and the challenges of staying connected. He shares the deeply personal story of losing a child at birth, and how he and his family navigated unimaginable grief.

But John’s journey also includes remarkable achievements – from representing Australia in Taekwondo and managing security operations at the Sydney Olympics, to working with the ICC to investigate global corruption in sport.

This is a raw and inspiring chat about discipline, resilience, purpose, and the strength it takes to keep showing up – both at home and on the world stage.

In Episode 2 of The Dad Havin A Crack Podcast, we chat with Luke Wilson – father of three, high school teacher, lead singer, junior basketball and footy coach, cyclist, and runner – a true example of a dad giving life a red hot crack.

We wind back the clock to his school days, where his love of heavy metal music began. Luke shares stories of starting bands, touring the country, and how music has shaped his identity and influenced his life.

We also dive into how he balances the chaos of everyday life – from early mornings on the bike to late nights on stage – while staying present as a dad, partner, and mate. He opens up about the wins, the struggles, and the mindset that helps him stay grounded.

If you’ve ever felt stretched trying to do it all, this one’s for you. A reminder that balance isn’t about perfection – it’s about showing up where it counts.

https://www.instagram.com/dadhavinacrack/

https://www.youtube.com/@dadhavinacrack

DadHavinACrack is here – for the everyday, relatable dads giving life a red hot go.

This podcast dives into honest conversations with real blokes juggling the highs and lows of life, fatherhood, work, and everything in between. We chat about family, fitness, hobbies, passions, mental health, and those moments we don’t always talk about – from epic fails to unexpected wins.

No experts. No filters. Just everyday dads sharing stories, swapping laughs, and reminding each other that having a crack is what it’s all about.

Whether you're on the tools, stuck in traffic, or out for a jog – this one's for you.

Episode 1: Finding Your Why with Chiropractor Greg Conlan

In our very first episode, we sit down with chiropractor and dad Greg Conlan to chat about the importance of finding your why – that deeper reason that keeps you moving forward when life gets tough.

Greg opens up about his own journey, the cracks he’s faced, and why building a strong health team (not just physically, but mentally and emotionally) is essential for dads trying to be at their best.

From mindset to movement, this convo is all about setting yourself up for long-term health, purpose, and having a red hot crack at life.