The Innerview

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Alison Bohn, a dear friend, as she opens up about her mother Annie's battle with dementia. Annie, known for her humor and warmth, left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Ali shares cherished memories of her mother before dementia took hold, offering a glimpse into the incredible woman she was.

As we delve into their journey, Ali sheds light on the unexpected challenges that come with caring for a loved one with dementia. She emphasises how this experience is far more gut-wrenching than most might imagine.Despite the trials they faced, Ali and her family maintained a sense of humour and normalcy, creating precious moments that brightened Annie's day. Ali shares some heartwarming stories of humor playing a significant role in their lives.

The journey through dementia profoundly impacted their family dynamics, drawing them closer together and revealing unexpected silver linings. Annie's relationship with Ali's father evolved in remarkable ways, bringing the family even closer.

Ali reflects on the toughest moments they faced while caring for her mother during her dementia. These moments revealed their strength and resilience as a family.

In honour of Dementia Month, Ali talks about a fundraiser happening this week, September 17th, and how it aims to raise awareness about dementia's impact on families like hers.As a writer, Ali is also working on a book that shares her family's experience. She gives us a sneak peek into her writing process and what readers can expect to learn from their heartwarming and inspiring story of love, laughter, and resilience in the face of dementia.

SUPPORT TEAM ANNIE HERE: https://fundraising.dementia.org.au/fundraiser/teamannie?fbclid=IwAR1OxzEI8-d-aOl9qc9ZT07AFJAiuyBVyZwZB6uG1x_xDV9rlEx6QNNjJMY

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In this episode we're privileged to have Erryn Sculley, the compassionate mental health social worker behind "Nurtured Mothers Wellbeing," share her profound journey. Erryn reveals the origins of her initiative and her mission to support mothers in their mental health journeys, touching on the often-overlooked concept of matrescence.

Erryn shares her personal story and recounts discovering her mother's cancer diagnosis just one day before learning of her own pregnancy. She bravely shares how this dual journey profoundly impacted her experience and the coping mechanisms she relied on during this challenging time.

The societal myth of the "perfect mother" is explored as Erryn reflects on how it shaped her journey and offers thoughtful ideas on challenging and redefining this stereotype. She also delves into her unique transition from a nutritionist and food scientist to a mental health social worker, sharing the motivations behind this change and how her nutrition background informs her approach to mental health work.

Erryn's journey extends to her work in NDIS and youth mental health, where she shares some of her most impactful experiences and how they have shaped her perspective on mental health. We chat about Erryn choosing an elective c-section due to a history of reproductive trauma and facing judgment for this decision. Erryn and i connect on experiencing judgment from others surrodning birth and feeding and how detrimental these comments can be to women.

CONNECT WITH ERRYN:
WEBSITE: https://nurturedmotherswellbeing.com.au/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/nurtured.mothers.wellbeing/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091373085979&mibextid=LQQJ4d

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Thank you for listening if you enjoyed the episode i would love it if you could leave a rating and review! X

Join us in this inspiring episode as we sit down with Alan Thorpe, an extraordinary individual who is embarking on a remarkable journey from Ballarat to Adelaide CBD. Covering a staggering distance of 630 kilometers in roughly 35 days, Alan's determination to walk around 30 kilometers a day is a testament to his unwavering commitment to mental health awareness.

In this captivating conversation, Alan shares the motivations behind his incredible journey and his dedication to raising funds for the mental health charity Beyond Blue. Having already surpassed his initial goal of $15,000 with an astonishing $40,000 raised, Alan delves into how these funds will contribute to breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and providing vital support to those in need.

At the heart of Alan's mission is his determination to challenge the stigma surrounding men's mental health and suicide. He explains how his personal experiences, including overcoming the challenges of losing his home and marriage, have fueled his passion to make a difference. Alan's authenticity and willingness to share his own struggles have allowed him to connect with others on a profound level, creating a ripple effect of hope and understanding.

Throughout his journey, Alan has been uplifted by the outpouring of support from the community. He discusses how these positive interactions have propelled him forward and kept his spirits high during challenging moments. Not only has Alan's walk encouraged donations, but his placement of donation boxes in local businesses has actively engaged the community in spreading awareness about mental health.

SUPPORT ALAN AND BEYOND BLUE:
WEBSITE: http://iwalkformensmentalhealth.com.au/
DONATE: https://team.beyondblue.org.au/alan-t
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077886126684&mibextid=LQQJ4d
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/iwalkformensmentalhealth/

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INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/the.innerviewpodcast/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=the%20innerview

Thank you for listening if you enjoyed the episode i would love it if you could leave a rating and review! X

Join us for a heartfelt episode as we celebrate the life of Tess Pearce, a remarkable individual who embraced life with cerebral palsy and refused to let her challenges define her. Tess's mother, Sandi Pearce, shares the story of her incredibly intelligent and kind daughter who fought for equality her entire life.

Tess's journey was filled with determination and support from her family, especially her inspiring mother, Sandi. Although she faced social challenges at school due to her disability, Tess remained determined to succeed academically. She pursued her dreams, and even in the face of adversity, she never lost her positive spirit.

While living in Melbourne, Tess pursued her interests in animal welfare, music, and health while studying social services at Deakin University. Her aim was to work in disability, LGBT advocacy, or case management.

Unfortunately, Tess's life was cut short last year, leaving Sandi grappling with grief and seeking closure amidst the ongoing circumstances. 

In this episode, we honour Tess's legacy of equality and determination, celebrating the impact she made on those who knew her. Join us as we remember Tess Pearce, her unyielding spirit, and her mission to promote equality and happiness for all, regardless of their background or abilities.

Helpful links or resources:
LIFELINE: https://www.lifeline.org.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw2qKmBhCfARIsAFy8buLxg9w3DTrsn4zL-m_uR_454z24wgiKDAkO38L_USQ3F7W63ZmRTygaAlevEALw_wcB
SUICIDE PREVENTION: https://suicideline.org.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw2qKmBhCfARIsAFy8buL1ICinVM3XMGbUdvcTGRR2bijHfMPcPFgnIWgqDdHRiI2_A49Ci1gaApdaEALw_wcB

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You can follow and connect with me here:
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/the.innerviewpodcast/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=the%20innerview

Thank you for listening if you enjoyed the episode i would love it if you could leave a rating and review! X

In this inspiring episode, join us as we sit down with Dean, Gus, and Josh, three remarkable individuals who are embarking on an extraordinary charity run from Federation Square in Melbourne to Ballarat, covering a distance of approximately 117 kilometers, all in one go. Their mission? To raise awareness and funds for men's mental health.

We dive deep into their motivations and personal connections to mental health challenges. Dean shares his own journey, shedding light on the struggles he has faced and continues to face, which have fueled his determination to make a difference. Gus and Josh also open up about their experiences and how these challenges have shaped their perspectives on this critical issue.

Throughout the interview, we explore the goals they hope to achieve through this charity run, from raising awareness to breaking down the barriers surrounding mental health conversations. Dean explains why they chose a podcast as a platform to discuss the 'why' behind their endeavor, emphasizing the power of storytelling and vulnerability in fostering understanding and support.

The importance of tough conversations and embracing vulnerability in addressing men's mental health is a central theme. Our guests share their insights on encouraging others to open up, seek help, and create a supportive environment. They offer valuable advice to those who may be hesitant to reach out for support.

Additionally, we highlight various resources and organizations dedicated to men's mental health, providing our listeners with avenues for further assistance and guidance.

Finally, we explore the long-term goals and aspirations of Dean, Gus, and Josh in their advocacy work for men's mental health. Discover how they plan to sustain their positive impact beyond the charity run and continue their journey of making a difference in the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges.

Join us for this compelling conversation, filled with personal stories, insights, and a shared mission to raise awareness and support for men's mental health.

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Join us for an incredible chat with Celia Gercovich, a young and fearless entrepreneur who took a leap of faith by leaving her corporate job to conquer the world of social media and entrepreneurship. With a thriving online presence on TikTok and YouTube, Celia shares her journey of transition and the highs and lows of building a successful online career.

Discover the early influences that shaped Celia's entrepreneurial mindset and fuelled her determination for success. Hear how she bravely made the leap from the typical 9-5 grind to fully embracing the digital realm. She'll also reveal the secrets she learned along the way to spot unique opportunities and launch multiple thriving businesses.

Learn how Celia manages content creation across different platforms, consistently delivering fresh and engaging material to her audience. She opens up about the pressures of relying on self-generated income and shares strategies for avoiding burnout and staying motivated on her entrepreneurial journey.

Aspiring entrepreneurs will greatly benefit from Celia's valuable advice, which is based on her own experiences. Get a sneak peek into her exciting upcoming plans and projects. She also unveils the story behind selling her business, 'Bespoke Balloons,' and shares effective strategies for building a massive following on TikTok while fostering genuine connections with her dedicated followers.

Lastly, Celia leaves listeners with one impactful piece of advice that captures the essence of her entrepreneurial journey, inspiring those who are ready to dive into the online business world. 

FOLLOW CELIA:
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@celia.gercovich
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/CeliaGercovich
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/celia_gercovich

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York's journey continued with two open-heart surgeries, complications, and a harrowing stint on life support known as ECMO. Maddison vividly recounts the harrowing moments when the doctor revealed the gravity of York's condition, forcing her to confront the possibility of leaving the hospital without her baby. The PICU became their second home, witnessing both the heart-wrenching struggles of other families and the extraordinary dedication of medical professionals.

The episode takes a dramatic turn as Maddison reveals the recent cardiac arrest that York experienced, and the heroic actions she and her partner had to take to save their baby's life. Amidst it all, Maddison expresses her gratitude for the life-saving training provided by PAEDS, and the ongoing tests and uncertainties they face in determining the cause of York's respiratory arrest. Join us for the second part of this emotional journey, as Maddison and her family demonstrate unwavering strength and love for their little warrior, York.

In this episode, Maddison also delves into her interactions with the heart community, the difficulty of well-meaning but sometimes insensitive remarks, and the invaluable support she received from her loved ones. She shares her thoughts on navigating the complexities of life in the hospital, where the abnormal becomes normal and grief intertwines with hope.

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In this powerful and emotionally charged episode, join us as we welcome back returning guest Maddison Hutchinson. Maddison bravely shares her remarkable journey of resilience and hope after the loss of her daughter Sutton to hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Experience the rollercoaster of emotions she endured, from the depths of despair to the joy of a new pregnancy.

After the devastating loss of her daughter and a subsequent miscarriage, Maddison found herself living in fear during her subsequent pregnancy with York. Every step felt precarious, and she meticulously watched every aspect of her life, from medications to food choices. Friends expressed concern that she might be battling depression.

At the 20-week scan, Maddison's anxiety peaked as memories of Sutton's diagnosis flooded back. The same doctor who delivered the heartbreaking news appeared during the scan, but this time there was an underlying uncertainty. The diagnosis revealed a severe case of aortic stenosis, raising worries about the future of her unborn child.

Amidst the challenges, Maddison and her partner faced difficult decisions armed with options, knowing that the condition could potentially worsen during the pregnancy. The episode delves into Maddison's experiences, including an amniocentesis and unforeseen complications when her waters broke at 26 weeks. Being in a different country complicated matters, leading to a 10-day hospital admission and having to fly home and go straight to the hospital.

Throughout the pregnancy, Maddison battled physical and emotional challenges, fuelled by her love for her unborn son. At 35 weeks and 5 days, her waters broke again, signalling the impending arrival of baby York. In a whirlwind of medical urgency, Maddison underwent an emergency c-section, allowing for a different birth experience while preserving Sutton's story.

Stick around next week to hear Part Two of Maddison's Journey. 

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Join us for an emotionally charged podcast episode as we delve into the extraordinary journey of Tamara Donnelly, a resilient mother who faced unexpected challenges with her daughter, Mackenzie. Everything seemed perfect on Mackenzie's first day of life, but a routine hearing screen revealed something amiss. Tamara vividly recounts the moments that followed, from initial confusion to witnessing her partner's concern. 

They underwent a series of tests, with each step bringing a mix of emotions. Tamara humorously reflects on turning to Dr. Google, only to be bombarded with worst-case scenarios. However, it was their exceptional audiologist who became their guiding light, explaining the intricacies of Mackenzie's condition and offering hope. 

Amidst the challenges, Tamara shares the impactful decision they made regarding future children. Genetic testing presented them with an overwhelming chance of various disabilities. After a previous miscarriage, they chose not to have more children, focusing their energy on giving Mackenzie the best life possible. Fate had other plans, as Tamara unexpectedly became pregnant with their second child, Lottie. Tamara humorously shares the shock home birth story and the subsequent family adventure across Australia when Lottie was just 4 1/2 months old.

Throughout their journey, Tamara dispels myths and misconceptions about hearing restoration through cochlear implants. She describes the time it took for Mackenzie to adjust to sound and the ongoing learning process. Tamara's unwavering love and dedication shine through as she recounts the constant testing and Mackenzie's determination and resilience keeps them going.

FOLLOW TAMARA
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100058924243238
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/tamara_mitch/

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Get ready for an incredibly powerful and heartfelt episode as we wrap up our "Loss of a Parent Series" with Marnee, our sixth and final guest. Marnee has bravely agreed to share her deeply personal story of losing both her mum and dad to heart attacks and cardiac arrests. Through tears and vulnerability, she opens up about the devastating impact these losses have had on her life and who she has become as a person.

In this candid conversation, Marnee reflects on her challenging relationship with her mum, revealing the ups and downs they experienced together. But amidst the difficulties, she finds solace in the three incredible years they reconnected, holding onto those precious moments as a lifeline during her darkest days.

With a heavy heart, Marnee expresses her deep love and admiration for her late father. The pain of his absence is still very much alive as she shares heartfelt memories and the lasting impact he had on her. Listening to her speak, it's clear that his loss has left an indelible mark on her life.

As Marnee navigates the journey of parenthood without her own parents' support, she vulnerably shares the challenges she faces. She talks about the struggle of not comparing herself to other Mum’s, especially those she encounters at her children's school. However, despite these difficulties, Marnee has built a tight-knit and loving family unit with her partner and two daughters, creating a support system that carries her through life's ups and downs.

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Thank you for listening if you enjoyed the episode i would love it if you could leave a rating and review! X