Shows
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: James McAloon Kurt Fearnley sits down with adventurer James McAloon to explore his incredible journey from a corporate career to life on the edge of the world's most challenging environments. James shares stories of his daring expeditions, from trekking across the frozen tundras to navigating dense jungles, and discusses the pivotal moments that inspired him to leave the conventional path behind. They delve into the mental and physical challenges of extreme adventure, the importance of resilience and adaptability, and how his experiences have shaped his outlook on life.
2024-08-1952 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Angie Ballard Angie Ballard is one of Kurt's oldest friends. She shares her journey from a young athlete discovering the world of wheelchair racing to becoming a world-class competitor and a six-time Paralympian. With numerous medals and world records to her name, Angela talks about the highs and lows of her career, the dedication required to stay at the top, and the importance of resilience and determination.
2024-08-1252 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Ryley BattIn this episode of Tiny Island, Kurt Fearnley sits down with Paralympic legend Ryley Batt, a true powerhouse in wheelchair rugby. Ryley shares his journey from a young boy growing up on a farm to winning multiple Paralympic gold medals and world championships. Ryley's story is one of resilience, determination, and breaking barriers. This episode is full of motivation, laughter, and insights into the life of an extraordinary athlete who embodies the spirit of never giving up. Don't miss this chance to hear from one of Australia's most inspiring sports figures!
2024-08-0553 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Peter Doherty We sit down with Peter Doherty, Nobel Prize-winning immunologist and passionate advocate for scientific research. In this conversation, Kurt delves into Peter's groundbreaking work in immunology, his perspectives on global health challenges, and the vital role of science in our rapidly changing world. From the intricacies of the immune system to the importance of informed public health policies, Peter shares his vast knowledge and passion for science. It's an episode filled with insightful discussions and thought-provoking reflections from one of Australia's most esteemed scientists.
2024-07-1549 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Michael AtkinsonTiny Island is back for another season! And to kick things off Kurt sits down with Michael Atkinson, better known as Outback Mike. At 47 years old, Mike is an adventurer, filmmaker, and former military pilot with a wealth of stories and experiences to share. Mike’s passion for the extreme outdoors and his knack for capturing the raw essence of adventure on film led him to create his award-winning film, "Surviving the Outback."
2024-06-261h 05
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Jackie FearnleyIn this episode of Tiny Island, host Kurt Fearnley sits down with his first return guest! Back in one of our first episodes Kurt spoke with his mum, Jackie, when they were in Kenya visiting Kurt Fearnley Centre for children with disability. This time Kurt and Jackie talk about raising a child with disability, some of the decisions the family had to make, and what it was like to follow the career of a professional wheelchair racer.
2023-03-2335 minKurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Rhys MuldoonIn this episode of Tiny Island, host Kurt Fearnley sits down with Australian actor and comedian Rhys Muldoon to discuss his life and career. Rhys opens up about his childhood growing up in Melbourne, his early years in the entertainment industry, and his experiences working on some of Australia's most beloved television shows. Rhys also shares some of his favorite memories from his time working on shows like Play School, The Saddle Club, and Bluey, and offers insights into what makes these programs so special for both children and adults alike.
2023-03-171h 00Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: John HowardIn this episode of Tiny Island, host Kurt Fearnley sits down with former Australian Prime Minister John Howard to discuss his life in politics and beyond. He reflects on his childhood in a working-class Sydney suburb, and how his experiences growing up shaped his political beliefs. Mr Howard offers candid insights into his decision-making process and his philosophy on leadership, and shares personal anecdotes about some of the most memorable moments of his time in office.
2023-03-1054 minKurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: David ConnollyKurt Fearnley sits down with David Connolly, the general manager of Tipperary group of stations in the Northern Territory. David shares his experiences of managing the stations, which cover an area larger than the size of Switzerland! He discusses the challenges of running a business in such a remote location, from the logistics of getting supplies to the stations to dealing with extreme weather conditions. They reflect on the beauty of the Australian outback and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
2023-03-0241 minKurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Alison BattissonAlison Battisson runs a legal and advocacy organisation that promotes human rights for refugees and asylum seekers. Kurt and Alison were part of a team who helped Afghan Paralympian get to the Tokyo games. Kurt and Alison discuss the complex issues surrounding the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers, the importance of advocacy and legal representation.
2023-02-2257 minKurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Royce SimmonsRoyce Simmons is a rugby league legend and all round great Aussie. He's a premiership winning captain of the Penrith Panthers and now faces another challenge after he was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Kurt and Royce chat about his early days growing up in rural New South Wales, his career in rugby league and all the highs and lows of his journey.
2023-02-1642 minKurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Stan GrantWe're back for 2023! In this episode of Tiny Island, host Kurt Fearnley welcomes special guest Stan Grant, renowned journalist, author and commentator. Kurt and Stan delve into the complexities of identity, culture and the power of storytelling. With their shared experiences and unique perspectives, they discuss the challenges faced by Indigenous communities and the importance of amplifying their voices.
2023-02-061h 03
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Libby TrickettWho can forget seeing the wonderful Libby Trickett (nee Lenton) on our TV screens, winning Olympic Gold and smashing World Records? But an athlete's career extends before and after their moment in the limelight, and it can be a tough road. While getting to the start line is one thing, it's the days, weeks and years post sporting career which are probably the toughest. Libby and I had a great catch-up, chatting about life in the Olympic bubble, mental health, parenting, Bluey, podcasts and how we spend our post-racing lives.
2021-07-071h 09
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Back soon!I've been out and about gathering some great yarns for you all and will be back soon!
2021-06-0901 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Daley PearsonSome TV shows transcend the market they are directed at and Bluey is definitely in that category. Especially in my house! Daley Pearson is a co founder of Ludo Studio, the Brisbane-based production company behind Australia's most watched TV series which has more than 350 million downloads and is now a global hit. Ludo has won three Emmy Awards, a Logie and a few others things along the way. And Daley is a Marvel Universe hero too, starring as Thor's roommate, Darryl, in Taika Waititi's Team Thor comedy series.
2021-04-281h 14
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Bob BrownBob Brown has lived a life of activism. From nearly 30 years in state and federal Parliament to leading a truck convoy protesting against a coal mine and establishing his own foundation which 'takes action for Earth', Bob has been on the frontline for decades. Oh, he's also a trained medical doctor, Australia's first openly gay Member of Parliament and has publisher nearly a dozen books.
2021-04-2137 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: John MorrisJohn Morris is a rugby league legend, playing 300 first grade games before his career was ended by injury. He transitioned to coaching straight away, taking charge of the Cronulla Sharks first grade team while still in his 30s, leading them to consecutive finals appearances in the midst of Covid, a transitioning playing list and other controversy. We spoke just before the 2021 season kicked off. Six weeks later, the Sharks sit just outside the finals spots and John has been sacked by his club. Listen to our yarn and I'm sure you'll agree with me, that John's resilience will ensure...
2021-04-1445 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Natasha Stott DespojaNatasha Stott Despoja entered the Australian Parliament in her twenties and went on to represent South Australia and the Australian Democrats for 13 years, including a period as leader. Post politics, Natasha has worked in the media and led a life of service. She is most well known for her work in gender equality and in 2020 was elected to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, becoming Australia's first member of the committee in 28 years.
2021-04-0755 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Andy ReidMany international listeners would identify Australia's beach-going lifestyle with one patch of sand in Sydney, largely thanks to today's guest and his colleagues. Born and bred in Bondi, Andy "Reidy" Reid is most well-known for his role as a lifeguard on worldwide TV hit, Bondi Rescue. There's more to Reidy than his day job and subsequent TV fame. Entertainer, athlete, documentary star. An all round great Aussie.
2021-03-311h 12
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Felicia JedrasiakPolish-Australian Felicia Jedrasiak spent her teenage years in a German concentration camp and working as forced labour on a soldier's farm. Yet her life has been full of so much joy. Mrs Jay has lived an extraordinary life. From the tiny village of Ruda Różaniecka in Poland, to Majdanek concentration camp, and a refugee camp in Italy where she found her life love, before making her way to Cabramatta in Sydney's west. Felicia's son Peter, my cousin, also jumps in on this episode to help join some dots.
2021-03-241h 07
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Reece HignellReece Hignell has a lifelong love of food. In particular, his Nan's cakes. Reece's passion took him to Australian MasterChef twice, and more recently to open his own bakery, Cakeboi in Newcastle. While people are travelling from across the country to nab one of Reece's cakes, I'm fortunately, or unfortunately if you ask my retired athlete body, just a couple of blocks away.
2021-03-1051 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Di PassDi Pass has spent the last 20 years recruiting people for jobs, including the 12,000 people who worked at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. She was also one of the first people to believe enough in me to sponsor me.
2021-03-0356 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Alex McKinnonAlex McKinnon was an up and coming 22 year old rugby league first grader when his life changed in one infamous tackle. The spinal injury he suffered, meant no more footy and life in a wheelchair. We chat parenting with a disability, finding your place in life post sporting career and reflect on what its like as a wheelchair user in Australia.
2021-02-2459 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Peter V'LandysPeter V'Landys loved horse racing and rugby league, sports followed by millions of Australians. As an administrator the goal was to contribute to one. Then he was appointed to roles in both, working concurrently in two of the highest profile sports administration jobs in the country. When Covid hit V'Landys applied what he'd learnt in horse racing to rugby league with the NRL one of the first sports worldwide to operate in this global pandemic.
2021-02-1752 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: David 'Jimmy' Cox Have you ever wanted to quit your day job and follow your passion? David 'Jimmy' Cox did this a couple of years ago and now has a successful microbrewery in Dungog.
2021-02-1037 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Dan IlicDan Ilic is prolific. In front of the camera and at the mic, behind the camera, producing and directing, writing and performing. But Dan's Aussie story is more than his work and it was wonderful to get his take on what it means to be an Australian.
2021-02-031h 06
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Australia Day 2021Today is Australia Day. My thoughts around this day have changed over the last couple of decades, even more so in recent years. I know people have differing relationships with this day and what it means to be Australian. It's complicated. Here are a few snippets from previous guests diving into the premise of Tiny Island, about what it means to them to be Australian.
2021-01-2630 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Matt BevanI spent close to six months a year and four of the previous five elections in the US when I was racing, so have a healthy interest in what's happening across the Pacific. ABC journalist Matt Bevan shares my interest-and passion-so it was great to sit down for a yarn about the current state of affairs and what impact the Trump years have had on our Tiny Island.
2021-01-201h 20
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Alicia EdgeWho has set a 2021 diet or weight loss resolution? I'd be lying if I said it wasn't bouncing through my head when 1 January clicked over. Well, our guest this week is Alicia Edge the Co-Founder/CEO and Principal Dietitian at Compeat Nutrition. Compeat Nutrition utilises an innovative service platform to educate, support and empower people to their version of life. performance - redefining the role of nutrition in the lives is athletes and everyday people.
2021-01-131h 11
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Nathan LyonOn the back of four first class matches, Nathan Lyon was thrown in the deep end to bowl for the Australian test cricket team. He's now the third highest Australian test wicket taker in history. But his two greatest moments in the green and gold don't involve a ball or a bat. Tune in to learn what they have been and hear more from an unsung Australian sporting champ.
2020-12-231h 00
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Malcolm TurnbullMalcolm Turnbull is a man who never sits still. From tech startups, high profile law cases, running cattle or running Australia as Prime Minister, his life has been varied and colourful. There have only been 30 Prime Minister's of Australia so it is always an honour to sit down and have a yarn with one.
2020-12-1655 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: John NewcombeWinner of three of the four tennis majors in singles. Winner of all four in doubles. World number one in both... Five times Davis Cup winner as a player, once as captain. One of our best ever tennis players and fighting with Merv Hughes for all-time best mo... John Newcombe is an Aussie legend and it was a pleasure to share some time to talk tennis, Australia and life.
2020-12-0955 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Sam WellsWhat's it like to represent your country at an Olympic Games and World Championship but not be known to almost all of the population? Welcome to the life of aerial skier, Sam Wells. Sam represented Australia at two Winter Olympics before retiring from her sport in 2018. Her journey from self confessed average gymnast with a major injury, to Olympian is bloody great.
2020-12-021h 14
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: John BrownWe all know Paul Hogan threw the shrimp on the barbie, but who got Bob Hawke to buy the prawns? Former Federal Minister John Brown was the man who sold the beauty of Australia to the US in the 1980s and helped Sydney secure the 2000 Olympics. Beyond his Parliamentary career, John and his Sport and Tourism Youth Foundation, helped hundreds of Australians, including me, to follow their talents and dreams on national and international stages.
2020-11-251h 05
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: MovemberWhen I was racing, every year I would treat myself to a cut-throat shave at a New York City barber on the 1st of Movember. Not for the 0.1 of a second aerodynamic advantage in the marathon two days later, but to kick-start my annual mo growth, helping to raise awareness and sometimes funds, for Movember, the leading charity changing the face of men's health. This Movember, I've pulled together three segments from previous episodes which deep-dive into some of the focus areas of Movember - in particular, mental health and suicide, and testicular cancer. If you haven't listened to m...
2020-11-1835 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Drew DugganIt's Movember, a cause close to my heart and one I've supported for more than a decade. This week I get to talk with a Mo Bro and good mate, Drew Duggan, who has battled one of the key areas Movember supports - testicular cancer.
2020-11-1157 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Alicia QuirkA sporting career is finite but there's life either side to consider for all athletes. For elite sportswomen wanting to start a family, it's even more complex. For an Olympian in a contact sport, next level. Welcome to the life of 2016 Rio Olympic gold medallist in women's rugby 7s, Alicia Quirk.
2020-11-041h 03
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: John Hartigan I recently had former Managing Director of the ABC on the pod where we spoke about the current state of Australian media. This episode was an opportunity to hear from someone who has sat on the other side of the fence, John Hartigan, former Chair and CEO of News Limited. John has sat in many chairs and our paths have crossed on the board of Paralympics Australia and in our work with the Indigenous Marathon Project.
2020-10-2844 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Sister Diana SantlebenSometimes we need a voice to fight for a cause when we are silenced. Sister Diana Santleben has been that voice, a very loud one at that, for hundreds of refugees and other Australians throughout her life. A wonderful member of my community in Newcastle, Sister Di is a cracking Aussie.
2020-10-2159 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Mark ScottMark Scott is one of Australia's best known public servants. As the managing director of the ABC for 10 years he oversaw the introduction of Australia's first 24 hour news channel and a big shift towards digital delivery of content. As the current secretary of the NSW Department of Education he is taking on the epic battle of ensuring hundreds of thousands of students receive a quality education in a safe environment as the world battles Covid.
2020-10-1454 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Kirk Pengilly We've all moved and grooved to the sounds of this week's guest, Kirk Pengilly of INXS. Kirk and I have crossed paths a few times over the years and it was nice to sit down and deep dive into his life as an 80s rock god. But I think Kirk is best described by my dad "he'd fit in at the Carcoar pub".
2020-10-071h 16
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Craig HamiltonCraig Hamilton has had a successful and varied career. He has worked as an underground coal miner, radio sports commentator and is a mental health advocate, speaker and author. As a Beyond Blue Ambassador, Craig provides an insight into what it is like to experience a mental health condition and gives hope and encouragement to others. Craig is probably best known as a member of the Grandstand Rugby League commentary.
2020-09-3050 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Lawrie McKinnaLawrie McKinna has worn many hats and shirts! He arrived in Australia from Scotland in the 80s as a professional footballer, before moving into coaching and management in the national league and in China, with a sidestep into local government in between. Now in football administration as CEO of the Newcastle Jets, Lawrie brings his own perspective to what it means to be an Australian.
2020-09-231h 04
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Adam SpencerVictories shared are the sweetest and Adam Spencer helped me share mine with thousands. I fondly remember shooting down Fifth Avenue in a chauffeured car after winning the New York Marathon, alone but thanks to Adam and ABC radio, talking to a city of millions back home. Author, presenter, mathematician, Adam wears many caps and it was great to catch up.
2020-09-091h 14
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Kamalle DabboussyThere are always challenges as a parent. For me, it can be that tough night, awake at 4 in the morning, seemingly tortured through lack of sleep, feeling like it will never end. When I first met Kamalle Dabboussy I was having one of those nights. Kamalle's pain though, is on a different level with no end in sight. His child is trapped in Syria along with his three grandchildren.
2020-08-261h 02
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Georgie GardnerGeorgie Gardner is a face and name known to most Australians. She's been in our living rooms for more than 25 years and is one of few news presenters and journalists to work across our three main commercial television stations. In 2019, she was part of the first all-woman main presenter duos on Australian breakfast TV, when Deborah Knight joined her on the Today show. An all-round wonderful person, Georgie is another cracking Aussie.
2020-08-191h 07
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Jordan O'Reilly Jordan O'Reilly is the co-founder and CEO of Hireup, an online platform connecting Australians with disability with support workers who fit their needs and share their interests. Last year Hireup was named Google.org Impact Challenge winner & named Australia's 2017 fastest growing tech company name by Deloitte.
2020-08-061h 11
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Peter FoxPeter Fox gave one of the most noteworthy interviews on Australian television in 2012. His description of systematic abuse and coverup of sexual crime against children, which he had witnessed as a police officer, was the tipping point in forcing the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. Peter's bravery to step out ended his 35 year career as a police officer and changed his life forever.
2020-07-2900 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Wil AndersonWil Anderson is an Australian comedian, writer, presenter, and podcaster. Wil's rise to prominence started in 2000 when he co-hosted the triple j breakfast radio show with Adam Spencer. Between 2001 and 2006, Wil hosted the comedy talk-show The Glass House & is currently the executive producer and host of The Gruen Transfer. Wil also hosts numerous podcast, yet is most well known for Wilosophy, where Wil gets to explore how people think & the belief systems behind them
2020-07-221h 43
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Liesl TeschLiesl Tesch is one of those Australians who keeps challenging herself and coming out on top. School teacher, Paralympic medalist in two sports, world champion, Sydney to Hobart sailor, Member of Parliament, the list is long! I've known Liesl for 20 years and it was lovely to have a chat and reflect on sporting career and beyond.
2020-07-081h 08
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Justin HalesJustin Hales wanted to revisit his childhood love of caravanning. When searching for the perfect van to hire, he couldn’t help but notice all of the un-used caravans and campers sitting on driveways around his neighbourhood. A stackload of entrepreneurial spirit, a passion for making camping holidays more accessible and investment from a local business accelerator, saw Camplify first say ‘G’day’ to Australia in 2015. Five years later, Justin’s nostalgia trip has led to a global community of thousands of van owners in Australia, the UK, Spain and New Zealand now boosting their income by sharing the joys of caravan...
2020-07-011h 03
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Nat Heath Nat Heath is a graduate of the Indigenous Marathon Project(IMP) and now Board Member of the Indigenous Marathon Foundation (IMF). Working in Indigenous mentoring and education his entire career, we speak about the importance of education and the difference it can make in lives. And we take time to digest some of the many issues currently being tackled by his community, many of which have been fought over for decades!
2020-06-241h 49
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: David RickardsDave Rickards was a co-founder and CEO of Crazy Clints Bargain Stores in Australia from 1979 - 2001. Having sold this business in 2001, he along with his wife Kerry embarked upon a personal journey of giving. In 2010, they set up the DAK Foundation. Now they are one of Australia's most active philanthropic donors.
2020-06-171h 09
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Cheryl SalisburyCheryl Salisbury may not be a household name but she is a one of the giants of Australian Sport. Cheryl was captain of the Australian female national team, the Matildas. A fierce competitor on the field, Cheryl make her debut in 1994 and went on to play 151 games for the green and gold, a record number of caps for a female or male player. Cheryl’s achievements saw her named in the FIFA Women’s World XI on two occasions in 2004 and 2007. On 27 January 2009, she announced she would retire after the game against Italy at Parramatta Stadium. The game finished as a...
2020-04-151h 05
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Steve MooneyThe last Tiny Island Podcast I recorded while I was on the road working, was literally recorded while I was on "The Road". Steve Mooney has picked me up and drove me across QLD for the last 3 years. Steve has an infectious energy about him. He's been in the chauffeur game for ten years and is never short of a story to tell.
2020-04-0620 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Chad CareyFrom the Amazon jungle to the Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia, Chad Carey along with Business partner Greg Carter have grown a travel business, discussed over a few beers into Chimu Adventures offering adventures across South America & stretching into voyages down to Antartica. We speak whilst crossing the Drake Passage returning from Antarctica in the first days of the advance of the Corona Virus.
2020-03-3046 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Linda Hughes While COVID19 turns our lives upside down, it's important to stop and learn from people who have learnt to thrive in what others perceive to be turbulence. Today we talk to Linda Hughes about constantly adjusting to what life throws in her direction while balancing the supports and complexity of high needs disability. Linda is a fierce social justice advocate and was recognised as Newcastle's Woman of the Year. We talk about the realities facing people with disability right now, the importance of independence and choice while navigating a complex National Disability insurance scheme.
2020-03-231h 11
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Dr Erika Chapman BurgessDr Erika Chapman Burgess has a great Australian story of success, after a childhood which was a little complex. At times it was hectic beyond imagination. Erika was one of five who were all born on the same day. As an Indigenous quintuplet growing up in Glen Innes life was a bit different. But Erika (and her siblings!) has shown there's nothing wrong with a bit of difference and how hard work and dedication can take you places where people least expected.
2020-03-161h 08
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: John Marsden As a kid, John Marsden would retreat into books as a way to escape a tough childhood. As a school teacher John was frustrated by the lack of reading and good stories available to his students so took matters into his own hands. And has now written over 40 books. The majority of his books are written for teenagers, including the popular Tomorrow series. The difference he has made to young Australians stretches beyond his writing though, having moved on from just being a teacher to founding two schools in Victoria. It was great to sit down and have a y...
2020-02-2455 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Mark Hughes During winter in Newcastle you would be hard pressed to walk down the street without seeing a Mark Hughes Foundation beanie on a Novocastrian head. The unofficial uniform is a product of the foundation and its founder who played rugby league for Newcastle, NSW and in the English Super League. In 2013 Mark Hughes had an operation to remove an avocado sized tumour from his brain and went through rounds of treatment to try and beat a condition which arrived with few warning signs. It was great to have a yarn with Mark, who is striving to make...
2020-02-1744 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Craig Johnston If Craig Johnston's soccer career happens in today's digital age there wouldn't be a kid in Australia who didn't know his name and have the Liverpool 7 on their back. Instead he's a bit of an enigma on our shores but has one hell of a story of making it to the big time against all odds, falling down over and over and dragging himself back up. It was wonderful to have a yarn with Craig in Newcastle and learn a bit more about his highs and lows, and what keeps him coming back for more.
2020-02-101h 45
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Sophie Roden Sophie Roden is a humanitarian worker and lawyer. At 17 Sophie would volunteer in rural Zambia, not too many years after she would choose to join the fight against Ebola in Liberia. One of the youngest guest on Tiny Island, Sophie has a great story to tell.
2020-02-0359 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Adam Goodes Adam Goodes is one of the true gentleman of Australian sport. His genuine character and desire to make our country better shines through in every action. Adam had a long career as one of the best Australian Rules footballers of his generation, won the Brownlow as best in the game a couple of times, two premierships, four time All-Australian, Indigenous team of the century, the list goes on. He did alright on the field but his actions off the field are his ongoing legacy. A cracking yarn.
2020-01-2758 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Michael Turner While individual athletes are on their own in the sporting arena, there's still a team behind them. This week I had the chance to sit down with Mick Turner, whose been part of my team through the ups and down for the last 20 years. From his living room in the middle of the night while I race a world away, next to me on Kokoda or trying to talk me out of racing the Sydney to Hobart, Mick's been there through the lot.
2020-01-201h 09
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Anthony Bell In my life there's been a few key people who have said how do we make this work, rather than throw me to the Sharks, Anthony Bell is one of them. I had the distinct honour of crewing with Belly in the Sydney to Hobart onboard Loyal, a boat which won the 2011 race and raised hundreds of thousands for children's medical equipment. We recounted some of that trip and why he does what he does.
2020-01-1343 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Catia Malaquias Catia Malaquias is a lawyer, board director and mother of three young children. Catia works tirelessly progressing human rights and inclusion of people with disability. I think this quote sums Catia up perfectly. “We need to take every opportunity to disrupt our culture’s mindset of exclusion of people with disability, which is so harmful. When you think about the hierarchy of human need, belonging has to be right up there and belonging is what historically has been denied to disabled people, though exclusion, segregation and institutionalisation. I feel that it is particularly important to foster in children an attitude...
2020-01-0651 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Alan TongueAlan Tongue and I have a lot in common. NSW country boys born in the early 80s, rugby league loving and nearly there Australians of the Year. After 10 years in the NRL playing for the Canberra Raiders, Alan's found a new direction in life and it was great to spend some time with him to share a yarn.
2019-12-2350 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Warwick Green Warwick Green is a journalist, author & former Australian rules player for the St Kilda football club. Warwick is the author of biography's for Jim Stynes, Neale Daniher & my own.
2019-12-1553 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Curtis McGrath Curtis McGrath is an incredibly humble and hard working Australian paracanoeist & Paralympian. He took up canoeing competitively after having both of his legs amputated as a result of a mine blast whilst serving in the Australian Army in Afghanistan. McGrath is the current Paralympic Champion & has won ten gold medals at ICF Paracanoe World Championships between 2014 and 2019.
2019-12-091h 23
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Returning soon Tiny Island Podcast will return from the break with fresh sounds and new stories from around Australia.
2019-12-0400 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Short break Today is a quick check in with Tiny Island listeners. We will be taking a short break between episodes. Now is a great chance to catch up on past conversations with some of the previous guests.
2019-10-2801 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Elaine Masters I am the product of Australia's world-leading and renowned public education system. Teachers changed my life, offering the support, direction and fight to guide me where I am today. They inspired me and two of my siblings to become teachers. My belief in public education is due to the work of teachers from day one that lived by the belief of equality. This weeks guest is Elaine Masters, a primary teacher and principal in rural Australia for a few decades an my first teacher. We share stories of our first years in Carcoar & our common belief in the...
2019-10-1453 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Lynne Anderson If it is possible to have Australian Sport pumping through the veins of an individual, that person has to be Lynne Anderson. Lynne was born into the renowned Canterbury Bulldog Rugby Leagues, Moore family, & has carved out a career in building sporting brands and fostering the family approach to every sport that Lynne has touched. Now the CEO of Paralympics Australia Lynne has continued to build the Paralympic Family, whilst guiding her beloved Bulldogs as Chair.
2019-10-0634 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Michael Groom, climber, paralympics Michael Groom is an Australian mountain climber who is the fourth person ever to reach the summits of the four highest mountains in the world (Lhotse, Kangchenjunga, K2 and Everest) without the aid of bottled oxygen. He proceeded to climb the fifth-highest, Makalu, in 1999. In 1987 he lost the front third of his feet to frostbite after descending from the summit of Kangchenjunga. He later managed to summit Mount Everest in 1993 and again in 1996. Michael is made of some pretty tough stuff. We speak about the drive behind mountain climbing & the power of desire.
2019-09-3058 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Kevin Mitchell Kevin Mitchell is an Australian singer-songwriter; Mitchell uses the name Bob Evans for his primary solo project. He is also the founding lead vocalist for the alt rock band Jebediah. Kevin’s music would be the soundtrack to the lives of a generation of Australians & he takes it all in his humble creative stride.
2019-09-231h 00
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Milly Tapper There's an elite club of 15 athletes who have competed in full medal events at both an Olympic and Paralympic Games and one of them is an Aussie. In 2016 Milly Tapper wrote her name in the history books when she represented Australia in Rio, playing table tennis in both games, a few weeks apart. I guarantee after today's episode you will have caught some of Milly's infectious laughter and learned a bit more about what it's like to represent Australia at the highest sporting level.
2019-09-1645 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Craig Foster Craig Foster played football for Australia in the 90s, honing his craft in leagues across Asia, Europe and here in Australia. These days he is a sports analyst for one of Australia's state broadcasters, and recently came to prominence campaigning on behalf of Bahraini footballer Hakeem al-Araibi, who was granted protection as a political refugee in Australia but was detained upon arrival in Thailand while honeymooning with his wife. We cover the power of sport, the need to give back to community and his love for the those who’s life is centred around the betterment of humanity.
2019-09-091h 30
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Osher Gunsberg Osher Gunsberg might be best known these days for handing out roses on the Bachelor Australia but his most important work happens away from the camera. Osher is an active advocate in the mental health space, sharing his own journey openly and trying to help others as host of the Osher Gunsberg podcast. We sat down a few weeks ago, and a week later Osher welcomed his first son, Wolfgang into the world.
2019-09-021h 11
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AO QC It's hard to drive through a town in NSW without seeing the names of our first Governors Phillip, Hunter, or Macquarie on a sign for a landmark, but who are our most recent Governors? And what is the role of a modern Governor? My first exposure was as an 11 year old when I entered the residence of the NSW Governor, known as Government House on the door step of the Opera House. One of the few trips over the Great Dividing Range that wasn’t to see a doctor, I was receiving an award for what I believed to be...
2019-08-2646 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: NSW Australian of the Year Recognition for the work and life has never been something that has sat comfortably with me. But being named as one of the four recipients for the various categories of NSW Australian of the year has been an incredible honour. In particular, sharing the honour with 3 powerful people. Jarred Wheatley, Sophie Smith & Heather Lee OAM have an amazing message. This conversation covers the power of optimism, healthy lifestyle and the importance of relationships.
2019-08-191h 12
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Jon RouseDo your kids enjoy a bit of downtime in their bedroom with their phone? Have you ever considered that someone posing as 'Justin Bieber' could get your innocent, clever daughter to do unimaginable things online? Nobody is immune to online crime, even our children. People like Queensland Australian of the Year DI John Rouse, are playing a leading role globally investigating and acting on crimes against children. This is a heavy topic and in this episode we talk about sexual abuse. If this is a trigger for you, sit this one out. And remember Lifeline is there for you...
2019-08-1254 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Kevin Coombs Kevin Coombs is an Australian wheelchair basketballer and athlete who competed at 5 Paralympics including the first Paralympic Games in 1960. He is also the first Indigenous Australian Paralympic competitor. He is the most resilient man that I have met and I feel grateful to have grown up within the Australian Paralympic family that Kevin Coombs helped create. Affectionately known within the community as Uncle Kevin.
2019-08-0547 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Gladys BerejiklianGladys Berejiklian is an Australian politician serving as the 45th and current Premier of New South Wales and the Leader of the New South Wales Liberal party. Berejiklian was born in Sydney, the eldest of three daughters born to Armenian immigrant parents. Berejiklian spoke only Armenian until she was five years old, when she began learning English. We speak about gratitude and a strong since of duty and resilience that has assisted in the rise to the highest ranks of the NSW political stage.
2019-07-2928 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: George King George King is the 5th generation of his family to run Coombing Park, one of the founding homesteads of Carcoar. Carcoar is in the central west of NSW and where I grew up. My connection to Coombing Park is deeper then the location. My grandfather worked the property as the head stockman for around 40 years. Today we speak about how farming is changing, life in the bush and the nobility in farming.
2019-07-2227 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Phil Kearns Phil Kearns captained Australia 10 times of the 67 he pulled on the Wallabies' jersey but his impact on our nation goes well beyond his rugby career. Phil is a successful businessman and the founder of the Balmoral Burn, a charity foot race that has raised more than $30 million for the Humpty Dumpty Foundation, who supply medical equipment to childrens' hospitals across Australia. We spent some chatting about media in footy, Phil's proudest rugby moments (none as a player!) and the difference the work of Humpty makes for Aussie kids.
2019-07-1540 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Steve WaughOn 3 January 2003, I was in my car, pulled over, teeth clenched, sweating a little, ears tuned to what would end up being one of the most memorable moments in Australian cricket history. In a test Australia lost. This week I get to chat through this moment with the man who created it, Steve Waugh, Australian cricket legend, perhaps our greatest ever captain, philanthropist and all-round good bloke. We also touch on media in sport (including sandpaper-gate), the young girls Steve supports in India and how he and his foundation are changing the lives of children in Australia with rare d...
2019-07-0839 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Daniel Kowalski I often say the 10 years of not winning was one of the major factors in my success when I eventually got there in 2004. But what if you never get that individual success because you keep coming up against the best athletes your sport has ever seen? How do you keep going? Enter Daniel Kowalski, dedicated swimmer, champion bloke, but known most for his minor medals than anything else, behind messrs Perkins and Hackett. He competed in the Olympic Games in 1996 & 2000. At the 1996 Summer Olympics, Daniel was the first man in 92 years to earn medals in the 200-, 400- an...
2019-06-2448 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Kumi TaguchiHave you woken up at night wondering 'Am I doing enough'? Kumi Taguchi uses that question to drive herself. A familiar face on our screens, Kumi is an ABC TV presenter, and current host of Compass. We speak about work goals, race, the view of Australia from abroad and the changing landscape of Australia.
2019-06-1759 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Andrew Denton I'm fast learning that leading an interview is an art and not something you pick up overnight. So it was a pleasure to sit down with one of our best, Andrew Denton. Currently hosting The Interview on Channel 7, Andrew has a gift of drawing unheard insights from filmstars, politicians and even the occasional wheelchair athlete... A Rabbitohs tragic and driving force behind their reinstatement to the NRL, Andrew shares some of his wisdom with me, including a good yarn about his push for assisted dying.
2019-06-1045 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Teela Reid When you ask an Aboriginal woman what it means to her to be Australian and she responds that she's never identified as Australian you step back a little... Learn why Teela Reid, a proud Wiradjuri and Wailwan woman from Gilgandra, takes a different view on our nation and growing up in Australia. A lawyer, a Harvard emerging leader, Teela wears many hats and it was great to sit down and have a yarn
2019-06-0253 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Geoff Trappett Geoff Trappett OAM is a former Paralympic Athlete. Competing in 2 world championships, Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 Paralympics. He won Gold in Sydney, being the first person to dip under the 14 second mark for the 100m wheelchair sprint, holding this world record through his retirement in 2005. Following on from sport, Geoff has transitioned to working professionally in multiple senior executive roles in the disability sector. He currently runs his own social policy change organisation Inclusion Moves and speaks out on human rights and disability inclusion.
2019-05-2744 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Peter Helliar After 5 minutes with Peter Helliar, in person or through one of his many exploits, you've undoubtedly had a laugh and probably learned something too. Peter is an Australian comedian, actor, radio and television presenter, writer, producer and director. He is one of four regular hosts of The Project on Network Ten & previously he was known for his work on television on Rove. He’s an AFL loving self confessed bogan & loved by the Australian public.
2019-05-2046 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Georgie Parker Reaching the pinnacle of one sport is incredible. In two? That's something else. After an Olympic Games representing Australia in hockey, Georgie Parker made the leap to play AFLW at the highest level with the Collingwood Magpies. A fierce, determined athlete and one of my favourite larrikins, Georgie now also hosts the sports commentary podcast "That's what she said". Loved this yarn and everything Georgie stands for.
2019-05-1348 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Craig Bellamy Craig Bellamy is one of the most successful coaches in Rugby League history. His record while at the helm of the Melbourne Storm is incomparable. We speak about what drives him and how he gets the best out of the people around him. We also chat about Craig's history before the coaching role including his experiences in bush football and journey through the sport as an athlete.
2019-05-0537 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Thérèse Rein Thérèse Rein is one of Australia's leading entrepreneurs. She founded Ingeus, an international employment and business psychology services company, is the recipient of the human rights medal, a mother of three, and part of the Paralympic family as the daughter of one of Australia’s first Paralympians. And she's lived in the Lodge a couple of times with her Prime Minister husband.
2019-04-2842 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Robert de Castella With what seems to be an everlasting dominance of African athletes in long-distance running events, it's hard to believe that Australia's own Rob de Castella was the world-record holder over the marathon distance in the 1980s. Rob set the world record in 1981 and represented Australia at four Olympic Games, won two Commonwealth Games marathon races and was Australia's first track and field world champion. The 1983 Australian of the Year (one up on Kurt!) Rob is known in more recent years for his passionate drive to see running change the lives of Australian Indigenous communities through the Indigenous Marathon Project.
2019-02-2750 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Sam MostynSam Mostyn is a non-executive director and sustainability advisor, with a long history of sports governance. Her current board roles include Mirvac, Transurban and Virgin Australia, and she is the Chair of Citi Australia. She joined the board of the Sydney Swans in 2017, after serving for more than a decade as a Commissioner with the Australian Football League - the first woman to ever be appointed, and in that role, was an advocate for the creation of the AFL Women's League. It was on a board that Sam and Kurt first met while both serving as Directors of Australian...
2019-02-2459 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Barry O'FarrellBarry O'Farrell is a former politician and was Premier of the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) from 2011-2014 having led the NSW Liberal Party to a landslide election victory, ending 16 years of Labor government. Barry and Kurt first met in 2009 in the lead up to Kurt's crawl across the Kokoda Track, crossing paths many times over the next decade. In this chat, Kurt and Barry talk about the pull between progressive and conservative politics in Australia and the direction Barry took as Premier, including signing NSW onto the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Gonski education reform and the...
2019-02-1748 min
Kurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Layne BeachleyLayne Beachley AO is regarded as the most successful female surfer in history. Winning seven world championships, including six in a row, Layne helped forge the way for professional women's surfing around the world. In this chat, Kurt and Layne reflect on their sporting careers, the transition into life post-competitive sport and what drives them to succeed in their lives.
2019-02-1043 minKurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny IslandKurt Fearnley's Tiny Island is yarn with some amazing Aussies about their passions, what makes them tick and what it is to be an Australian. Here’s a snippet of what’s to come. Don't forget to subscribe to the show!
2019-01-3104 min