In this deeply moving episode of Your Neighborhood Show, host Carolyn sits down with the courageous and compelling Wendy King. From her early years in Fiji, navigating a childhood shaped by alcoholism and trauma, to facing personal trials as a young mother and battling disconnection in adulthood, Wendy shares her raw and unfiltered story of survival, healing, and reconnection.

Through heartbreak, addiction, estrangement from her children, and a transformative battle with cancer, Wendy reveals how her life has come full circle. Her journey underscores the human need for connection, the lasting impact of childhood, and the power of community and sisterhood in recovery.

Wendy's vulnerability and honesty provide inspiration for anyone feeling lost or isolated. This episode is a powerful testament to the idea that while we can’t rewrite our past, we can reclaim our future—one intentional connection at a time.

🔍 Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – 05:30
Carolyn introduces the show and the inspiration behind it—rebuilding community after personal isolation.

05:31 – 17:00
Wendy’s early life in Fiji: the duality of deep family bonds and growing up with an alcoholic father.

17:01 – 27:00
Teen years: trauma, dislocation to the Cook Islands, and confronting early abuse in silence.

27:01 – 34:30
Becoming a young mother in Fiji and the emotional challenges of rejection, cultural shifts, and solo parenting.

34:31 – 42:00
Wendy’s turbulent life in Australia: a cycle of relationships, cultural disconnection, and the powerful sense of tribe she found in Sydney—despite it being steeped in partying and escapism.

42:01 – 48:00
The pivotal breakdown: addiction, emotional disconnect, and the turning point visit to Fiji that began her path to healing.

48:01 – 51:00
Reconciling with her past and children—especially the painful estrangement from her son, Jake—and her reflections on generational trauma and motherhood.

51:01 – 54:30
Facing breast cancer, spiritual awakening, and finding forgiveness—from others and herself.

54:31 – 56:00
Looking ahead: Wendy’s new chapter in Fiji, using food, culture, and community to build connection and meaning.

🎧 Tune in to hear a story of redemption, reflection, and the strength of the human spirit. Whether you’ve experienced disconnection, are navigating motherhood, or are seeking to rebuild your sense of belonging, this episode offers both comfort and courage.

⚠️ Content Warning: Suicide
This episode contains discussion of suicide and grief, which may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that you are not alone and there is help available. In Australia, you can contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support, or visit www.lifeline.org.au. If you're outside Australia, please seek support through your local mental health services. Your well-being matters. 

In this heart-opening episode of Your Neighborhood Show, host Carolyn sits down with Lauren McHutchison, a Brisbane-based entrepreneur, mother, and passionate community-builder. Lauren shares her journey from a close-knit upbringing in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, to navigating life as a young expat in Australia. She opens up about the challenges of loneliness as a new mother, building connection from scratch, and the life-altering grief of losing her brother to suicide. Through vulnerability, resilience, and a deep commitment to living authentically, Lauren reveals how she found healing and purpose—both in her personal life and through her real estate business. A moving and inspiring story of courage, community, and reconnection.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – 07:00 | Carolyn’s Story & Podcast Purpose
Carolyn shares her motivation behind the podcast—rediscovering connection after personal isolation and drawing out stories that normalize the ups and downs of community and disconnection.

07:01 – 14:30 | Meet Lauren McHutchison
Lauren is introduced as a local business owner and foster parent with deep roots in her Brisbane community. Carolyn highlights Lauren’s real estate business, Atlas Real Estate, and her consistent efforts to give back.

14:31 – 26:45 | A Joyful Upbringing in New Zealand
Lauren reflects on growing up in the beachside town of Mount Maunganui, being known through her family's pharmacy, and the strong community ties that shaped her identity.

26:46 – 35:00 | The Leap to Australia and Canada
At 19, Lauren moves to Australia, where she meets her husband Chris, travels the country in a van, and later relocates to Canada. She recounts the spontaneity, freedom, and learning that defined these early adult years.

35:01 – 44:20 | An Unexpected Pregnancy & Surprise Wedding
Lauren finds out she's pregnant while in Canada. She and Chris return to Australia and pull off a surprise backyard wedding, redefining love and family on their own terms.

44:21 – 53:30 | Motherhood, Loneliness & Rebuilding Community
Despite having support from Chris's family, Lauren describes the emotional weight of isolation as a new mum. She shares how she took initiative—joining a mother’s group, posting on Gumtree, teaching Zumba—to form real community connections.

53:31 – 1:07:15 | Losing Her Brother: Grief and Isolation
Lauren speaks candidly about losing her brother Ryan to suicide during COVID lockdowns, the pain of grieving from another country, and the emotional toll of watching his funeral online. A profound and moving segment about love, loss, and healing.

1:07:16 – 1:17:50 | Turning Pain into Purpose Through Business
Fueled by grief, Lauren launched her own real estate business with a renewed focus on values and alignment. She talks about choosing clients intentionally, building boundaries, and being a fully present mother and leader.

1:17:51 – End | Balance, Boundaries & Community Leadership
Lauren discusses her current approach to balancing business, motherhood, and community involvement. From volunteering at events to donating strategically, she models a thoughtful way of giving back while honoring her personal limits.

🎧 Listen to this episode if you:

• Are navigating big life changes or loss

Description:
In this heartfelt compilation episode, Your Neighbourhood Show reflects on the spirit of community, resilience, and connection through powerful stories shared across our first eight episodes. Host Carolyn revisits moving moments of building support networks after disconnection, finding belonging in new towns, overcoming isolation, and the deep impact of simple acts of kindness. From heartfelt personal journeys to inspiring reflections on friendship, family, and healing, this special episode captures the essence of what it means to belong — and how each of us can be a light in someone else's life.

Episode Breakdown:

Opening — Carolyn's Story: Carolyn shares the roots of the podcast and her journey from connection to isolation and back.

Finding Belonging After Isolation: A story of moving towns, facing loneliness, and the transformative power of one act of kindness.

Early Lessons in Resilience: A teen’s tough but defining experience on a remote cattle station.

Growing Up in a Village Community: Childhood in a large family, learning life skills through community and a family business.

Navigating Business Challenges: How starting a values-driven business and surviving COVID shaped resilience and innovation.

Belief, Healing, and Critical Thinking: A powerful story of faith, healing, and later reflection on personal growth.

Creativity and Emotional Healing Through Music: Turning grief into art through the unexpected gift of songwriting.

Adapting to Change in New Communities: Teenage transitions, building resilience, and creating new beginnings.

The Power of Childhood Initiative: How a simple "Fun Club" changed one young girl’s world — and her neighborhood.

Duration: 50 minutes

🎧 Episode Synopsis:

In this heartfelt episode of Your Neighborhood Show, host Carolyn welcomes longtime friend and community builder Christine Bagley-Jones—an experienced psychologist, author of Creative Connections, and mother of five. Together, they explore the deeply human experience of connection and disconnection through personal stories, childhood reflections, and professional insights.

Christine shares her journey from childhood loneliness on rural acreage to building intentional community, both as a young girl and as a grown woman. With warmth and wisdom, she opens up about her family, marriage, and the pivotal experiences that shaped her understanding of belonging. She also dives into her creative projects, including an online retreat and her acclaimed book, all crafted to help others navigate disconnection and rediscover purpose and self-connection.

Listeners will walk away inspired to reflect on their own relationships, find strength in vulnerability, and be more intentional about creating community around them.

🗂️ Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – 03:00 | Welcome & Backstory
Carolyn introduces the show’s origins, rooted in her personal journey from a connected childhood in Mumbai to experiencing isolation in Australia. The podcast aims to normalize disconnection and celebrate reconnection.

03:00 – 06:00 | Meet Christine Bagley-Jones
Christine is introduced as a longtime neighbor, psychologist, author, and mother of five. Carolyn highlights her impactful work, including My Finest Life and her book Creative Connections.

06:00 – 13:00 | Childhood Loneliness & the "Fun Club"
Christine reflects on her childhood growing up in isolation and her creative ways of seeking connection, like starting a neighborhood "Fun Club" at just 11 years old.

13:00 – 19:00 | Parental Influence & Marriage Reflections
The two discuss the subtle disconnect within their parents' relationships and how that shaped their own expectations of love and partnership.

19:00 – 26:00 | Choosing the Right Partner & Relationship Insights
Christine opens up about her 25+ year marriage to David, the qualities that make their relationship work, and the importance of emotional support, humility, and mutual growth.

26:00 – 29:00 | Christine the Introvert?
A surprising twist—Christine, a self-described extrovert, now cherishes solitude and solo pursuits as a way to recharge from her high-connection lifestyle.

29:00 – 33:00 | Creative Work: From Book to Retreat
Christine explains the roots and purpose behind her book Creative Connections and her online retreat course My Finest Life, offering tools to overcome disconnection and deepen self-awareness.

33:00 – 36:00 | Family, Legacy & Final Reflections
Christine shares her greatest life achievement—fostering deep bonds among her children—and the intentional parenting that helped nurture love, resilience, and communication within her family.

📚 Featured Resources:

• Book: Creative Connections by Christine Bagley-Jones (Available on Amazon)
  
  
• Course: My Finest Life Project – Online Retreat at plenmindhealth.com.au
  
  
  

Perfect For Listeners Who:

• Crave deeper connection in their lives
• Are navigating loneliness or life transitions
• Want insights on parenting, relationships, or self-growth
• Love real, inspiring conversations grounded in lived experience
  
  

Episode Synopsis

In this heartwarming and deeply authentic conversation, host Carolyn introduces Luke Dunning—creative entrepreneur, father of four, and the very person who helped bring this podcast to life. This episode delves into Luke’s journey from a childhood of connection and freedom on the Gold Coast to navigating disconnection, fatherhood at 21, and the entrepreneurial leap that shaped his life.

Luke shares candid reflections on growing up in a supportive family, how early disconnection shaped his resilience, and why intentional connection is at the core of both his personal and professional life. From humble beginnings in web design to founding a creative video agency, Luke's story is one of adaptability, integrity, and heart. The episode is also filled with relatable insights about balancing business and family, managing ADHD, and cultivating meaningful relationships in a digitally driven world.

Listeners will come away with a renewed appreciation for community, creativity, and the power of everyday stories to inspire connection.

Episode Breakdown

[00:00 - 04:30]
Carolyn introduces the podcast’s mission—exploring human connection through real stories—and shares her personal journey from a connected upbringing in Mumbai to feeling isolated in Australia after her marriage ended.

[04:31 - 10:45]
Meet Luke Dunning: Luke shares how his business, Umbrella Creative, began as a response to personal financial pressures and evolved into a video-first storytelling agency rooted in honesty and integrity.

[10:46 - 17:25]
Luke reflects on his childhood, growing up with older siblings, playing outdoors, and how those formative years built a foundation of connection and curiosity.

[17:26 - 24:40]
The culture shock of moving to a small town as a teenager, feeling disconnected, and learning to adapt and stay occupied through creativity and independence.

[24:41 - 30:55]
Luke opens up about becoming a single dad at 21, the support of his parents, and how that season—though difficult—strengthened his sense of responsibility and purpose.

[30:56 - 39:10]
The leap into entrepreneurship: why he left a secure job to start a business during paternity leave, how ADHD became a creative asset, and the importance of choosing projects that align with personal energy.

[39:11 - 44:30]
Working with his wife Caitlyn in business, the realities of balancing work and family, and the intentional communication that keeps their relationship strong.

[44:31 - 49:10]
Parenting philosophies, instilling confidence and emotional openness in their kids, and how the family works together as a team—even in the studio.

[49:11 - 52:00]
Closing thoughts: Luke shares his one piece of advice—do something kind for someone else, even a small gesture can be transformative. A simple but powerful reminder that connection begins with action.

🎧 Tune in for a raw and inspiring episode that celebrates the beauty of everyday connection, resilience, and creative courage.

Episode Synopsis

In this heartfelt and deeply introspective episode, Carolyn welcomes musician, composer, and writer Jack Terroni to explore themes of connection, disconnection, and the mystical journey of self-discovery. Jack shares his upbringing in North London, the impact of family grief, and his transformative experiences in nature that shaped his creative path.

From his unexpected musical downloads in a forest as a teenager to his serendipitous mentorships in Denmark and London, Jack's story is one of artistic passion and spiritual awakening. He opens up about his upcoming fatherhood, the profound vision he had before knowing his wife was pregnant, and the synchronistic moments that have guided his life.

Jack also treats listeners to a moving live performance of "The Day," a song born from deep emotion and personal loss. This episode is a powerful exploration of purpose, creativity, and the unseen forces that shape our lives.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 - 05:30 | Carolyn’s journey: From a connected childhood in Mumbai to feeling isolated in Australia
05:30 - 10:00 | Introducing Jack Terroni: Musician, composer, and creative storyteller
10:00 - 20:00 | Jack’s early years: Growing up in North London in an anxious but loving household
20:00 - 30:00 | A mystical turning point: The life-changing vision in the forest and its impact on Jack’s music
30:00 - 40:00 | Mentorship, music, and moving to Denmark: A transformative period with Nick Rowley
40:00 - 50:00 | The power of synchronicity: Meeting his wife, fatherhood, and a spiritual awakening in the bathtub
50:00 - 55:00 | Jack performs "The Day": A song inspired by grief, love, and healing
55:00 - 59:00 | Carolyn and Jack reflect on purpose, deep listening, and the wisdom of everyday life

💡 Tune in for a soul-stirring conversation that blends music, meaning, and the magic of human connection.

🎶 Listen to Jack’s music & explore more at jackterroni.com or Punchy The Musical.

In this heartfelt episode, host Carolyn welcomes the incredible Yani Mills—choir director, vocal coach, and passionate community builder. Yani shares her inspiring journey from childhood disconnection to fostering deep connections through music. She opens up about growing up feeling different, her transformative experience as a Sai Baba devotee, and how a shocking revelation led her to reevaluate her beliefs. Despite the challenges, Yani found solace and purpose in leading choirs, helping people connect through song and shared experiences. This episode is a moving exploration of belonging, resilience, and the healing power of music.

Episode Breakdown:
[00:00] Introduction

Carolyn shares her personal journey of growing up in a connected neighborhood in Mumbai, then experiencing isolation in Australia.
The mission of the podcast: normalizing disconnection and finding ways to rebuild community.
[05:30] Meet Yani Mills

Yani’s passion for music and her work as a choir director.
How she connects people through her choir programs.
[10:45] Early Experiences of Connection & Disconnection

Feeling out of place as a child due to cultural differences and being outspoken.
Finding comfort in a childhood friend, Madeline.
The deep bond with her grandmother, Pearl Harrison, a feminist and advocate for women’s shelters.
[20:00] A Life-Changing Spiritual Journey

Diagnosed with aplastic anemia as a child.
Her grandmother’s work typing a manuscript about Indian guru Sai Baba.
Becoming a devoted follower and attributing her healing to faith.
[30:15] Losing Faith & Rebuilding Identity

Witnessing an unsettling moment that shattered her beliefs.
The emotional impact of leaving a spiritual movement after 42 years.
Struggling with belonging and finding new meaning.
[40:00] Music as Healing & Connection

How choir work became a true form of spirituality for Yani.
The magic of singing together: breaking barriers, creating belonging.
Her philosophy: “Sing, Learn, Laugh, Connect.”
[50:00] Final Reflections & Advice

How to find belonging: pursue what you love and find people who share that passion.
The Ubuntu Wellness Choir and its mission.
Yani’s final words on connection and the power of music.
🎶 Ready to experience the joy of connection through song? Join Yani’s choir and be part of something truly special!

🔊 Listen now and be inspired by Yani’s journey of resilience, transformation, and community building.

Episode Synopsis

In this heartfelt episode of Your Neighborhood Show, Carolyn sits down with Marty Richards, the owner of Blackstar, a vibrant cafe in West End, Brisbane. Marty shares his deeply personal journey from feeling disconnected as a child to building meaningful connections through community work, spirituality, and entrepreneurship.

Marty opens up about his early struggles with loneliness, his transformative spiritual awakening as a teenager, and the intentional communities that shaped his path. He reflects on the joys and challenges of starting Blackstar and how he rebuilt the business during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaning on the relationships he had cultivated over the years.

Together, Carolyn and Marty explore themes of resilience, belonging, and the lessons we can learn from listening to our elders. It’s a powerful conversation about navigating life’s ups and downs, finding purpose, and fostering connection in a disconnected world.

Episode Breakdown

0:00 - 5:00 | Welcome and Introduction

• Carolyn introduces the podcast and shares her vision for exploring stories of connection and disconnection.
• Meet Marty Richards, owner of Blackstar Cafe, and hear how a chance meeting at the cafe led to this conversation.

5:01 - 15:00 | Early Years: Loneliness and Connection

• Marty recalls growing up in South Australia, memories of feeling alone as a child, and the impact of his parents' life experiences on their parenting.
• The transition from Wyala to Melbourne and a pivotal moment of being mocked at school, earning him the nickname “Goggles.”
• Turning adversity into strength by excelling in sports and music to find belonging.

15:01 - 25:00 | A Spiritual Awakening

• Marty shares his transformative spiritual experience at age 14 and how it sparked a sense of purpose and connection.
• Joining a youth group and becoming involved in community projects that emphasized justice, compassion, and social action.

25:01 - 35:00 | Intentional Communities and Grassroots Work

• Marty’s time living in intentional communities focused on activism, justice, and mutual support.
• Moving to Brisbane to join the Waiters Union and building a network of like-minded individuals dedicated to grassroots change.

35:01 - 42:00 | Building Blackstar and Overcoming Challenges

• How Marty and his former wife founded Blackstar Cafe as a hub for community and sustainable values.
• The struggles of running a business, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how his network of connections helped him pivot and adapt.

42:01 - 45:00 | Reflections and Closing Thoughts

• Marty reflects on what he would do differently in life: listening to elders and seeking wisdom earlier.
• Carolyn and Marty wrap up with a lighthearted yet meaningful conversation about resilience, gratitude, and the power of connection.

Why Listen?

This episode is a compelling reminder that no matter how disconnected we may feel, there’s always a path back to connection—through community, spirituality, or meaningful work. Marty’s journey is sure to inspire listeners to embrace their own struggles, seek out support, and build lives rooted in purpose and love.

Episode Title: Finding Connection: Terry Fitzpatrick's Journey Through Community and Purpose
Duration: 42 minutes

In this heartfelt episode of Your Neighborhood Show, host Carolyn delves into the extraordinary life of Terry Fitzpatrick, a leader in the St. Mary's in Exile community. Terry shares his deeply personal journey from growing up in a tightly-knit family in Toowoomba, Australia, to becoming a nurse, entering the priesthood, and later transitioning into social justice work. He reflects on the challenges of finding purpose, navigating connection and disconnection, and embracing his role as a father while honoring his spiritual calling.

Terry's story reveals the transformative power of community, spirituality, and authenticity in shaping a meaningful life. From the foundations of a "village kid" childhood to creating inclusive, justice-focused spaces at St. Mary's, this episode offers listeners a profound exploration of resilience, service, and the divine in the everyday.

Episode Breakdown:

[00:00] Introduction

• Carolyn introduces the podcast’s theme: connection and disconnection in community.
• Terry Fitzpatrick joins as the guest, sharing his background and connection to St. Mary's in Exile.

[03:45] Terry’s Early Life in Toowoomba

• Growing up as one of nine children in a close-knit family.
• The influence of living in a working-class Catholic neighborhood on his values.

[08:30] Discovering a Calling in Nursing

• Choosing a career in nursing as the sole male in a class of 90 women.
• How the experience shaped his understanding of care, resilience, and spirituality.

[15:20] Spiritual Exploration and Charismatic Prayer

• Terry’s journey into the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement.
• Living in an intentional community and its impact on his faith and life direction.

[20:45] Entering the Priesthood

• Reflecting on seminary life and his early years as a priest in rural Queensland.
• The challenges and rewards of serving in tight-knit country towns.

[27:30] Life’s Turning Point: Fatherhood and Change

• The decision to leave active priesthood after becoming a father.
• Finding support and purpose within the St. Mary’s community.

[33:00] Rediscovering Spirituality and Social Justice

• Joining St. Mary's in Exile and the establishment of Micah Projects.
• Integrating spirituality with action for homelessness and social justice causes.

[38:15] The Power of Connection

• Terry shares his philosophy of “connect, don’t correct” in relationships.
• Reflecting on how relationships and community have supported him through life’s challenges.

[41:00] Closing Reflections

• Carolyn and Terry discuss the role of community in fostering resilience and purpose.
• Final thoughts on gratitude, support, and spirituality as guiding principles.

Why Listen?

This episode is a testament to the human need for connection and the courage to follow your heart, even in the face of uncertainty. Terry’s insights into spirituality, community, and service offer profound lessons for anyone navigating change or seeking deeper meaning in their lives.

Welcome to Your Neighborhood Show! In this heartfelt episode, host Carolyn dives into a meaningful conversation with Deb, a Brisbane local whose life journey exemplifies resilience, courage, and the power of connection. Together, they explore stories of childhood, community, personal struggles, and triumphs, touching on themes like mental health, loneliness, and the importance of building support networks. Deb shares how transformative life events shaped her path, from working on a remote cattle station at 16 to navigating single motherhood while training as a nurse, and ultimately finding joy and connection in her community. This episode is a moving reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of seeking help when needed.

Episode Breakdown
Duration: 1 hour, 5 minutes

Introduction to the Podcast and Deb (0:00 - 5:00)

Carolyn shares her journey of creating the podcast to foster conversations about connection and disconnection.
Introduction to guest Deb, her roles as a nurse, mother, grandmother, and volunteer, and Carolyn’s reflections on their deepening friendship.
Deb’s Early Life and Resilience (5:01 - 20:00)

Deb recounts her childhood in Tully, a small, rain-drenched town in North Queensland.

At 16, her father sent her to work on a remote cattle station, where she developed independence and resilience despite homesickness.
The challenges of isolation and hard physical labor taught her life lessons she carries to this day.

Navigating Single Motherhood and Building a Village (20:01 - 35:00)

Deb reflects on her time as a single mother, raising two young children while completing her nursing training.

The power of community and friendships that supported her during this challenging period.

Mental Health Journey and Overcoming Stigma (35:01 - 50:00)

Deb shares her experience of facing anxiety and depression, the turning point when she sought professional help, and her transformative time in a psychiatric unit.

The benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy and life skills that changed her outlook on mental health.

Finding Joy Through Connection and Volunteering (50:01 - 1:00:00)

How Deb rebuilt her sense of belonging after moving to Brisbane, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her inspiring involvement in community volunteer work and her philosophy of “chasing the joy.”

Final Thoughts and Advice (1:00:01 - 1:05:00)

Deb encourages listeners to seek help when needed and to look beyond themselves by connecting with and supporting others.
Key Takeaways:

Connection often begins with intentional effort—seeking joy and reaching out to others.
Mental health struggles are normal and manageable with the right support and tools.
Building a community or “village” is essential for overcoming isolation and finding fulfillment.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to find strength through vulnerability and inspiration in the power of human connection.