Shows
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 16 | Rory CallaghanToday I’m joined by Rory Callaghan — a wellness architect, author, and speaker whose work blends science, soul, and storytelling. Rory’s journey hasn’t been straightforward. From growing up with an absent father and facing burnout as a health professional in his twenties, he’s transformed those challenges into a global movement centred on self-care and conscious leadership. His mission is simple but powerful: when we take care of ourselves first, we create ripple effects that transform our families, our communities, and beyond.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the podcast interviewe...
2025-09-091h 08
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 15 | Andrew Shepherd - 'Fat Farmers'In this episode, Andrew (Shep) Shepherd and I chat about how ‘Fat Farmers’ came to life, and the impact it’s having in country communities.What started with a few mates catching up for a workout and a laugh, has grown into something much bigger - built on movement, mateship, and looking out for each other.The group’s big on making sure everyone feels welcome, and that sense of belonging really shines through.It’s a genuine conversation about showing up, staying connected, and taking small steps toward a healthier, more grounded life - wha...
2025-04-171h 01
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 14 | Bill Van NieropToday on the podcast, I’m honoured to welcome Bill Van Nierop, a true testament to resilience and purpose.
Nearly 10 years ago, Bill was told he had an incurable and inoperable disease, and had 3-4 years to live.
Diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and then undergoing a bilateral lung transplant, Bill has since turned his challenges into advocacy, raising awareness and funds for lung disease.
From kayaking the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers to walking 700 kilometres, his story is one of determination and hope.
Join us as we explore Bill's extraordinary journey an...
2025-01-211h 29
Creative Connections with Mandy JakichAnna Gibbs - Conservation ArtistAnna Gibbs is a contemporary painter living in Banks Peninsula, near Christchurch in the South Island of Aotearoa NZ. If you search her name on Google you'll see she is described as an "internet personality" which probably comes from the amazing work she does on the Instagram social media platform and her loyal audience of more than 100,000 followers.Anna is interested in conservation and fortunate to live on a rural lifestyle-block populated by many native birds and plants. Her oil paintings are inspired by her daily observations of the interaction between native flora a...
2025-01-191h 38
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 13 | Lachie NealeWelcome back to In the Head of a Country Bloke. Today, I’m so grateful to have Lachie Neale back on the podcast for a bit of a follow-up chat.
We first sat down in 2020, and a lot has happened since then. Lachie’s added more huge AFL achievements to his name – he’s now a four-time All-Australian, six-time best and fairest, two-time Brownlow Medallist, and a Brisbane Lions Co-Captain and Premiership champion.
But beyond the accolades, he’s still as humble and grounded as ever.
In this episod...
2024-12-0855 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 12 | Tim MoyleBorn in Keith SA, Tim Moyle’s story is one of resilience and determination. After losing his father just months before he was born, Tim was raised on his grandparents' farm in Willalooka, shaped by his grandfather’s grit, his mum and stepfather Tim’s influence, and the guidance of respected mentors.
With a passion for agriculture, Tim’s journey took him from Roseworthy Ag College to a successful career with Landmark/Nutrien Ag. A decade ago, he seized the chance to buy into Millicent Farm Supplies, growing it into a thriving business alongside his partners, Ash and Fion...
2024-11-241h 30
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 11 | Todd WoodardWelcome back to In the Head Of A Country Bloke. Today we have inspiring guest Todd Woodard, a true ground- breaker in sustainable farming. Todd's journey began on the family farm where he developed a deep love for the land that has driven him to achieve amazing things - such as launching South Australia's first soil carbon project. At Peel Pastoral alongside his wife Anne and their families, they are setting new standards in regenerative practices, that capture carbon and nurture soil health. As chairman of the LC Sustainable Futures Association, Todd is on a mission to protect and...
2024-11-041h 14
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 10 | Matt RowettI caught up with Matt Rowett for coffee a couple of weeks ago, and we decided to hit record...
You might remember, Matt shared some of his incredible journey with us back in 2020.
Before his 40th birthday in 2019, Matt was enjoying life as a husband, father of four, a mate to many, and a successful business partner.
However, a series of headaches led to a life-changing diagnosis of Glioblastoma.
Despite the 'bleak prognosis', Matt has defied the odds, again and again - his story is one of ultimate resilience.
Wi...
2024-08-1825 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 9 | Luke Crossling
Luke Crossling, also known as Crozzy, embodies resilience and dedication. Growing up in Naracoorte with a passion for footy and running, he redirected his drive after colorblindness kept him from joining the army. Married for 17 years and a father of three, Crozzy balances family, work, and farming with his wife Sarah. Despite a significant knee injury in 2006, he transitioned to coaching and has since achieved impressive feats in athletics, including Ironman competitions and ultra-distance events. Next year, he has his sights set on a 100-miler.
You might notice the quality of the episodes (especially...
2024-08-041h 35
Let's Talk about CBT- Research MattersCBT in a Time of Climate and Biodiversity Crises- Dr Liz Marks on the upcoming Climate Change Special IssueIn this episode, Steph interviews Liz Marks about the upcoming special issue on climate change in the Cognitive Behaviour Therapist. They discuss the origins of the special issue and chat a bit about the Climate Change Special Interest Group (SIG) within the BABCP. Liz also gives an overview of all papers in the special issue, covering topics such as eco distress, transdiagnostic approaches, compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, environmental identity, active hope, and climate cafes. Useful links: tCBT Special Issue - CBT in a Time of Climate and Biodiversity Crises ...
2024-07-2332 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 8 | Jack LawrenceWelcome back to In the Head of a Country Bloke.
This time, I chat with Jack Lawrence, a bloke with a big love for action sports who definitely doesn’t mind living life on the edge.
Jack's passion for skydiving is clear, as he shares what it really means to him, and why he loves it. But his love for the extreme doesn't stop there.
He's also into motorbike racing, and even as a kid, he played every sport imaginable.
As a self-employed builder, Jack isn't afraid of hard work. He adm...
2024-06-0539 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 7 | Stewart McCullyWelcome to another episode of 'In The Head Of A Country Bloke.'
Today, I chat with Stewart McCully.Stew's story starts with his love for footy at Kybybolite.
He didn't stop there - he took his skills to SANFL, playing around 125 games with Glenelg Football Club.
But Stew's journey is more than just about sports.
After moving to Adelaide, he earned a teaching degree and built a successful career in education. His passion for helping others didn’t end in the classroom.
In 2014, Stew founded Next Level Elite, a mentoring service aimed at developing athletes and professionals alike.
Whether you...
2024-05-311h 11
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 6 | Jack BurnsIn this episode I was honoured to chat with Jack Burns, whose story is of the heartbreaking loss of his brother Jy to Suicide in 2019.
It’s a story of resilience, and sheer determination as well as the importance of the love of family, community and contribution.
Struggling with guilt and feeling like he let his family down, Jack found solace in the gym, where he often broke down.
Although Jack knew he needed help, it took him a long time to ask, until one day he realised it just had to be done.
The first anniversary of Jy's passing in...
2024-05-2442 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 5 | Ben HoodWelcome back to ‘In The Head Of A Country Bloke’. In this episode I chat with long-time local Ben Hood. Now living in Mount Gambier with his wife Elle and their three children, Ben has worn many hats. He’s the Liberal Shadow Minister for Regional SA and a member of the Legislative Council. He’s also served as Deputy Mayor of Mount Gambier and innovated and co-owned successful businesses like Hello Friday and George The Farmer.
Ben is passionate about his family and their history, his friends, faith, learning, good music, and so much more.
He has strong core values r...
2024-05-1956 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 4 | Glenn HaynesIn this episode I chat with Glenn Haynes, aka Haynesy.
Glenn's not only a seasoned shearer, with stories from the sheds that span decades - but a loving family man, and good mate to many.
From his start as a curious young bloke, venturing into the tough world of shearing to representing at state level, and eventually mentoring and training the next generation.
Glenn shares what it was like to shear out in the bush, the evolution of the habits of shearers, and the mentors who guided him.
Not to mention h...
2024-05-151h 03
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 3 | Bill GillIn this episode I chat to Bill Gill, a genuine 'what you see is what you get', down to earth bloke.
A loving Husband, father of three beautiful girls, and now Grandfather - Bill has strong family values, loves his mates and is known for his passion for sport.
He's a mix of humble and 'self confessed' opinionated in the things that matter to him.
He knows what it's like to experience heartbreaking loss, as well as the contrast of the highs of various successes life has to offer...when you take a...
2024-05-1242 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 2 | Tim SollyTim Solly has achieved and experienced a lot in his 40 years. From an award-winning voiceover artist, actor, and musician, to real estate agent, auctioneer, and now AFL commentator.
All this, balanced with his strong love of family. He's learned some important life lessons along the way - recognise opportunities when they arise, don't be afraid to dream big and make it happen, and perhaps most importantly - home is where the heart is.
**The views and opinions expressed by the Podcast interviewees are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views...
2024-05-0543 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS2 Ep 1 | Jason DruwittIn South Australia at the moment, bushfire alerts are at an all time high, and people like Jason Druwitt are vital in their prevention and management.
Jason, a dedicated leader and family man, works as Regional Commander for SA Country Fire Service in charge of region 5, which covers around 23,000 square km, 82 Brigades and 8 groups, with approximately 2,100 amazing volunteers.
Jason’s strength, resilience, and sheer determination are a testament to him. But it's not only this that makes him the leader he is today.
From being faced with several life-changing personal tragedies to moving through the professional challenges his job entails, Jason's...
2024-03-111h 18
Grains ConvoManage onfarm carbon emissionsHost: DPIRD Research Scientist, Alice ButlerGuest Speaker: DPIRD Agricultural Scientist, Mandy Curnow Mandy Curnow is an Agricultural Scientist with DPIRD, based in Albany. She has worked on various livestock research and Landcare projects throughout her career. More recently Mandy has focused her research on greenhouse gas accounting for mixed farming enterprises. In this podcast you'll learn how carbon emissions are calculated, and how to create a carbon account for a farming business. Mandy also provides an overview of the work she is undertaking at the Katanning Research Facility to mee...
2022-05-1330 min
In The Heart Of A Country GirlS1 Ep 9 | Jess DempsterAs we come out of yet another pandemic lockdown, life as we know it has become very different. In this episode, Jess Dempster gives an honest and fascinating insight into the challenges that she and other young people are facing in today's world. A uni student who has moved from Naracoorte to the city for the first time, Jess reveals the many unique pressures and difficulties she faces in her new life. They include separation from family - including a twin sister - learning to "adult" without a support network, finding a balance between achieving top marks and getting the m...
2021-07-2858 min
In The Heart Of A Country GirlS1 Ep 8 | Jess StensonJess Stenson (nee Trengove) is one of Naracoorte's greatest ever sporting exports. Her athletic achievements as an Olympian, a Commonwealth Games medallist and a winner of many other events and awards are well known to many. During this podcast episode, Jess gives an insight into the ‘human side’ of elite performance - what is it like being a top level athlete, putting aside everything for years at a time in the pursuit of a single goal and just how she manages the extreme highs and lows of competing.
2021-07-1543 min
In The Heart Of A Country GirlS1 Ep 7 | Natasha DawsonNatasha Dawson is a mother, hiker, earth educator, happy wanderer, barefoot and wholefood advocate and nature connection guide. Natasha loves to explore the outdoors and tune into the rhythm and cycles of our planet to support healing and wellbeing. Her business Barefoot and Nourished - nature walks for wellbeing, encourages women to join walks in conservation parks to connect with nature, themselves and others. As we know, life has a way of shaping us, and often leads us on a journey we may not have expected - Natasha has certainly used all of this to not only better herself, bu...
2021-06-3040 min
In The Heart Of A Country GirlS1 Ep 6 | Diana EdwardsIn business and in country football circles, Brian Edwards has earned a reputation over many years as a go getter and a high achiever. With his wife Diana, they formed a highly successful partnership in life and work, buying and growing businesses and winning many industry awards while also raising their young family. Now, the couple is facing the biggest challenge of their lives as Brian copes with a diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s. As his carer, life for Diana has changed dramatically, and in this podcast she gives an insight into their new life together, while reflecting on Br...
2021-06-1155 min
In The Heart Of A Country GirlS1 Ep 5 | Lucy WilliamsWhen she was just a teenager, Lucy Williams's world was turned upside down when much-loved dad Mark took his own life. Lucy and her family struggled for a long time to make sense of their loss. During this episode, Lucy talks about how she coped in the days, months, and years that followed, how it has shaped her life, and also what she does today to help others who may face similar traumatic experiences.
Thank you to the Upper South East Local Health Cluster (USELHC) for their support and Country SA PHN together with the Country SA PHN Community Wellbeing & Par...
2021-06-0256 min
In The Heart Of A Country GirlS1 Ep 4 | Amanda Stewart and Tania SmithLife on the farm can be challenging enough, but when the devastating impact of a bushfire is added into the mix, followed by a global pandemic, it goes to a whole new level. Dozens of families were impacted physically, financially and mentally by massive fires at Keilira, near Lucindale, in December 2019. Amanda Stewart and Tania Smith, who farm with their husbands at Keilira, talk about how the fires affected them and their neighbours, and how they managed to cope at the time and in the weeks and months afterwards.
Thank you to the Upper S...
2021-05-121h 00
In The Heart Of A Country GirlS1 Ep 3 | Kelsey PetherickOne regular Sunday night, Kelsey Petherick's whole world changed in an instant. She was just 15 when her much loved dad Brian died suddenly at home. He was just 48 years old. In a country town when we lose someone so loved, the ripple effect goes far wider than you could possibly imagine, and during this episode, Kelsey bravely shares just what life has been like for her and her beautiful mum Karen, and the impact that the loss has had on their whole family.
Thank you to the Upper South East Local Health Cluster (USELHC) f...
2021-05-1139 min
In The Heart Of A Country GirlS1 Ep 2 | Amy Mattschoss and Pip WoodardAmy Mattschoss and Pip Woodard are exercise physiologists who have set up their businesses in Naracoorte. What is an exercise physiologist? How can they help you? And what has led these young, university educated women to bring their expertise to a regional centre like Naracoorte?
Thank you to the Upper South East Local Health Cluster (USELHC) for their support and SA Primary Health Networks (SA PHN) together with the Country SA PHN Community Wellbeing & Participation Pilot Program for funding this podcast series.
*The views and opinions expressed by the i...
2021-03-0345 min
In The Heart Of A Country GirlS1 Ep 1 | Heidi YellandHeidi and Nick Yelland were extremely happy and excited to welcome their first beautiful baby boy into the world on 14th February, 2000. But the plan to start family life with their newborn Tom, soon changed dramatically when he developed serious heart issues, and devastatingly just 10 days later, they lost him. After the initial shock and despair, and throughout their grief, Heidi and Nick drew on their own resilience and amazing friends, family and community support, to find hope and gratitude. They have since had three more happy and healthy children. Two decades after losing Tom, Heidi and her small...
2021-02-1442 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeThe Naked FarmerThe Naked Farmer is an ambitious social media movement aiming to break down the stigma and barriers surrounding mental health. What started as a cheeky Instagram post by a young western Victorian farmer three years ago has exploded into a worldwide phenomenon. Mandy catches up with the founder Ben Brooksby to chat about his motivation and inspiration for creating the movement, and where he plans to take it in the future.
2020-09-1753 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 12 | Richie OliverSome people are lucky enough to escape one brush with death. Then there are others like Richie Oliver (otherwise known as "Punter") who somehow manage to survive two. In this fascinating podcast, Richie recalls vividly just what it was like to be involved in two near-fatal accidents - in the space of 12 months. He talks about what he's learned from the confronting experiences, and the strength, determination and "inner knowing" he has managed to find. He's not afraid to admit he's human and says his physical and mental recovery is still a work in progress.
Thank you...
2020-07-021h 30
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 11 | Matt RowettLeading up to his 40th birthday, Matt Rowett was enjoying life as a hard-working partner in a successful accounting practice and a devoted father of four. Then he started to get headaches, which he put down to the stress of a busy work schedule. The scans that followed revealed something that would change his life dramatically.
Thank you to the Upper South East Local Health Cluster (USELHC) for their support and SA Primary Health Networks (PHN) for funding this podcast series.
**The views and opinions expressed by the podcast interviewees are their own and do...
2020-06-2654 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 10 | Philip GalleyThe COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic impact on many people's lives. At a time when so many people are struggling to cope mentally, one of the South East's top mental health professionals is the ideal man to talk about the effects it has caused, and what we can do about it. Philip Galley is a leading mental health clinician whose list of qualifications is matched only by his collection of stories and anecdotes from a long and full career.
Thank you to the Upper South East Local Health Cluster (USELHC) for their support and SA Primary...
2020-06-1846 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 9 | Charlie LegoeA business owner, family man and committed amateur athlete, Charlie Legoe fits as much as he can into every day. As a travel agent, his business has been hit harder than most by the COVID-19 virus, forcing him to think and do things differently. But as he tells Mandy, it's the same as setting out on a 100km trail run, or a trek along the Kokoda Track, sometimes you just have to grit your teeth and do it.
Thank you to the Upper South East Local Health Cluster (USELHC) for their support and SA Primary Health Networks...
2020-06-1247 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 8 | Glen HamlynGlen Hamlyn, otherwise known as 'Hambo' is well known as a hard-working, outgoing, happy-go-lucky stock agent, who helped to establish the highly successful Pinkerton, Palm, Hamlyn, and Steen agency. He then built on that by buying into the busy waste collection service Envirotec. What you may not know, is that to achieve those business successes, he had to overcome various obstacles, including dyslexia.
Thank you to the Upper South East Local Health Cluster (USELHC) for their support and SA Primary Health Networks (PHN) for funding this podcast series.
**The views and opinions expressed by the...
2020-06-0332 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 7 | Michael WaiteAt a time when it seems the digital age is taking over the media landscape and newspapers are dying, Michael Waite has bucked the trend by starting a new community newspaper in Naracoorte. Michael has a fascinating background and life journey which has come full circle - from growing up in Naracoorte, to spending half his life in the US, to now returning where it all began. He gives a revealing and inspiring insight into why he has taken a chance on a start-up business in his home town, and the lessons and disciplines he hopes will underwrite its...
2020-05-2839 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 6 | Ken SollyHighly respected in the agricultural sector, Ken Solly has spent years travelling throughout Australia, working with and mentoring farmers - both men and women. Ken featured in the Stock Journal for many years as well as having run his own business. He has a passion for young people and loves to share what he has learned over the years, in the hope these people take some of that knowledge and go on to live more fulfilling lives - both personally and in business.
Thank you to the Upper South East Local Health Cluster (USELHC) for their support...
2020-05-2626 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 5 | Lachie NealeAfter growing up in the small South Australian country towns of Naracoorte and Kybybolite, Lachie Neale has gone on to become one of the top footballers in the AFL. He made his mark with Fremantle, and now the Brisbane Lions, where in 2019 he led his new club to the finals and finished equal third in the Brownlow Medal. It has taken talent, drive, commitment and strong values for Lachie to rise to the heights he has reached, but as you'll find out in this podcast, a lot more goes on 'in the head' of an elite athlete.
...
2020-05-2256 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 4 | Jack KellyJack 'Chipper' Kelly led the Robe Football Club A grade side to a drought-breaking premiership in 2018. They did it in dramatic fashion, winning their last two finals including the grand final by less than a goal. In many ways, Jack is your typical footy coach who loves the sport and everything about it. But actually, as you'll hear in this episode, Jack's approach to the game and his time as coach of Robe was anything but typical.
Thank you to the Upper South East Local Health Cluster (USELHC) for their support and SA Primary Health Networks (PHN...
2020-05-1839 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 3 | Brett GouldBrett Gould has a passion for exercise and fitness. As the owner of Naracoorte Health and Fitness Centre, with his wife Amy, his business has been hit as hard as any by the coronavirus shutdowns, but their positive attitude has shone through and they've found a way to keep taking fitness and well-being to their many clients. In this podcast, Brett talks about how the lockdown has affected him personally, what he's doing differently, and what he's realised about himself during this challenging time. Those who know Brett in his roles as a fitness instructor and long-time top local...
2020-05-141h 03
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 2 | Charles Brice (PART 2)Charles Brice was our first podcast guest in an episode recorded last year, a few months before he and a group of supporters tackled a huge ride to raise money for spinal cord research. In October 2019, Charles, who became a quadriplegic in a motorbike accident in 2010, pushed a handcycle while his fellow participants rode bikes on a 300km route which traced the path from his accident in the Riverland, to Adelaide. In part 2 of his story here, Charles tells Mandy about how he coped with the physical demands of the ride, and how it's led to him taking on...
2020-05-0834 min
In The Head Of A Country BlokeS1 Ep 1 | Charles Brice (PART 1)An active, fun-loving young man, Charles Brice's life changed forever in June 2010 when he became a quadriplegic in a motorbike accident. Here he talks to Mandy about what happened, how the accident changed his life, and what he's done since to keep moving forward. This interview was recorded in mid-2019, in the lead-up to Charles being the driving force behind a group bike ride which aimed to raise $100,000 for spinal cord research. In October 2019, Charles, pushing a handcycle, was joined by more than 20 other riders on a ride from the scene of his accident in the Riverland, to Adelaide...
2020-05-0743 min