Leadership Odysseys

Lead with Purpose. Live with Agency: Robyn Saranah’s Odyssey

In this powerful episode of Leadership Odysseys, Kirsty sits down with Robyn Saranah—Executive General Manager at Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand and former National GM of Commonwealth Private. Robyn is not only a leader in finance but a lifelong champion for social impact and financial empowerment, especially for women. From growing up in a small country town to leading change across some of Australia’s most respected institutions, her journey is rich with insight, resilience, and heart. We explore the mindset shifts that shaped her, the importance of building agency through financial independence, and why vulnerability and courage are essential for modern leadership.
Key Insights from the Episode:
~ Resilience is built at the edgeRobyn shares that growth happens when we challenge ourselves at our “development edge”—those moments of discomfort that lead to real transformation, not just in leadership but in life.
~ Financial literacy is not about money—it’s about choiceShe reframes financial independence as a form of freedom, agency, and power. Whether you’re raising a family, building a business, or navigating change, knowing how to manage money is fundamental to self-determination.
~ You don’t need a title to be a leaderRobyn dismantles traditional definitions of leadership, reminding us that influence comes from how we show up, ask questions, build trust, and create safety for others, not just from a job title.
~ Surround yourself with “treasures”From mentors to challengers, Robyn encourages all leaders to build an inner circle of truth-tellers—people who know your values and will hold you accountable when you're out of alignment.
~ Kindness is a strategy, not softnessOne of Robyn’s most profound messages: enter every relationship with the mindset of “how can I help?” The universe has a way of showing up when you do—and this generosity builds deeper community and lasting impact.
Robyn’s odyssey reminds us that leadership is not a ladder—it’s a layered, evolving journey grounded in curiosity, courage, and connection. Whether you're navigating your first leadership role or building your legacy, this conversation is a masterclass in leading with purpose and humanity. Her call to action? Start small, ask the big questions, and never underestimate the power of asking for help.
Connect with Robyn: LinkedIn 
Good Shepherd Australia and New Zealand: LinkedIn | Website
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website
This episode is brought to you by: Thebeautychef | Naturally Glutenfree  | Airwallex

The Leadership Power of Curiosity, Play, and Presence – Caterina Embersic-Dunne’s Odyssey

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, I sit down with Caterina (Cat) Embersic-Dunne—a dynamic executive coach, lecturer, and leadership expert who brings an unconventional yet highly effective approach to coaching: play. Through her work and doctoral research, Cat has pioneered the integration of play into leadership and team development, helping individuals unlock creativity, foster resilience, and navigate challenges with a fresh perspective.
Key Highlights: 
~ The Power of Play in Leadership – How Cat uses play methods to drive innovation, connection, and learning within teams.~ The Crossroads Moment – Why Cat made the bold decision to pivot her career and lean into coaching full-time.~ The Art of Self-Reflection – How embracing self-awareness and holding things lightly can lead to sustainable success.~ Redefining Leadership – Challenging traditional leadership models and why it’s not just about titles but about influence, relationships, and accountability.~ Cooking, Coaching & Martial Arts – How Cat’s experience as a chef on The Chef’s Line and her journey to a second-degree Black Belt have shaped her approach to leadership.
Cat’s insights are a powerful reminder that leadership is not about rigid structures—it’s about adaptability, creativity, and the courage to explore new ways of thinking. Whether you’re leading a team, navigating change, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you with a renewed perspective on what it truly means to embrace the journey.
 
Connect with Cat Embersic-Dunne: LinkedIn | Website 
Centre of Coaching in Organisations: LinkedIn
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website
This episode is brought to you by: Thebeautychef | Naturally Glutenfree  | Flagship

Unapologetically Authentic: Suzan Mutesi on Creativity, Resilience & Self-Love

What does it take to truly embrace your journey when the world questions your place in it? In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, I sit down with Suzan Mutesi—an actress, award-winning fashion designer, author, and influencer whose story is one of relentless reinvention. From growing up in Uganda during the civil war to building a life and career in Australia, Suzan’s journey has been anything but conventional.
She opens up about navigating the entertainment and fashion industries, the challenges of being in the public eye, and the resilience it takes to keep going when criticism is louder than applause. Most importantly, she shares a powerful message on self-love, authenticity, and the courage to keep showing up.
This conversation is real, raw, and deeply inspiring—one that will leave you reflecting on what it means to embrace who you are, unapologetically.
Key Takeaways
🌀 The Power of Reinvention – Suzan’s journey proves that you don’t have to fit into one box. From fashion to acting to writing, she’s embraced every opportunity that came her way.
🌀 "I Deserve to Be Here" – Suzan shares the emotional reality of self-doubt and public scrutiny, and how she reminds herself that she has earned her place.
🌀 Authenticity is Your Superpower – A powerful lesson on why staying true to yourself—even when misunderstood—is the key to long-term success.
🌀 Navigating the Media and Public Criticism – Suzan opens up about what it’s like to be in the headlines, how she processes negativity, and why she refuses to let external opinions define her.
🌀 Love, Relationships & Finding Your Person – Why Suzan believes that life isn’t meant to be done alone and the importance of finding someone who truly sees you.
Suzan’s story is a reminder that resilience is built in the moments no one sees—the tears before stepping onto a red carpet, the silent self-doubt before hitting ‘post,’ and the courage to keep going even when the world questions your worth.
Her journey isn’t just about success; it’s about embracing every chapter—no matter how messy, misunderstood, or unexpected.
Connect with Suzan: LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
This episode is brought to you by: Flagship | Thebeautychef

Huw Griffiths: The Power of Connection, Reinvention & Leadership in Fintech

What does it take to go from a punk rock guitarist to leading Enterprise in one of the fastest-growing fintech enterprises in the world? Huw Griffiths has never followed the conventional path. From his days playing in Kid Courageous to becoming Head of Enterprise ANZ at Airwallex, his journey is one of reinvention, resilience, and deep connection. In this episode, we uncover the defining moments that shaped Huw—his leap from music to finance, the bold career moves that propelled him forward, and why he believes people are the heartbeat of every successful business.
Key Highlights from Huw’s Odyssey:
~ From stage to boardroom: How a music career built the confidence and presence that later defined his leadership style.~ Breaking into banking with no formal experience: The mindset shift that helped him land a role at the Royal Bank of Scotland.~ The fintech boom: Lessons from Klarna, Afterpay, and Airwallex—why speed, vision, and adaptability matter in a high-growth environment.~ The power of connection: How networking, relationship-building, and emotional intelligence have been the cornerstone of his success.~ Balancing high-performance leadership with personal life: His take on resilience, energy management, and showing up as your best self.
Huw’s journey is a testament to trusting the process, backing yourself, and saying yes to opportunities—even when you’re not ready. His ability to connect people, build cultures, and drive business growth makes him a standout leader in fintech and beyond. Whether you’re scaling a business, navigating career transitions, or simply looking to strengthen your own network, this conversation is filled with insights that will change the way you think about leadership and connection.
 
Connect with Huw: LinkedIn
Connect with Airwallex: LinkedIn | Website
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
This episode is brought to you by: Airwallex | Thebeautychef | Naturally Glutenfree 

Arvin Singh: The Currency of Leadership—Resilience, Risk, and Reinvention

What does it take to redefine an industry, navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and still emerge with a relentless drive for impact? In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with Arvin Singh—a visionary fintech leader whose journey from the rice fields of Guyana to co-founding hoolah, and driving its acquisition by ShopBack, is nothing short of extraordinary.
Arvin’s story is one of bold decisions, unwavering resilience, and the art of embracing the journey, both professionally and personally. From his early days at Visa and Worldpay to shaping fintech ecosystems across Asia, Arvin shares not just milestones but the lessons learned in the messy, beautiful middle of leadership.
 
Key Highlights:
~ The Power of Starting Small: Arvin reflects on his humble beginnings in Guyana, the pivotal move to Canada, and how these early experiences shaped his worldview and leadership philosophy.~ Entrepreneurship with Purpose: Discover how Arvin transitioned from corporate roles to co-founding hoolah, tackling self-doubt, and embracing the chaos of startups with conviction.~ Navigating the M&A Rollercoaster: He offers an honest look at what it really feels like to sell the business you’ve built from scratch—the excitement, the grief, and the lessons in letting go.~ Building Resilience Through People: Arvin emphasises the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people—mentors, co-founders, and advisors—and how these connections became his anchor during tough times.~ Leadership Beyond Titles: As a current advisor and Board Member at Fly Fairly, Arvin shares insights on leading without authority, influencing change, and staying true to one’s values in evolving roles.
Arvin’s journey isn’t just about fintech success; it’s about growth, grit, and gratitude. His story reminds us that leadership isn’t a destination—it’s an odyssey, filled with unexpected detours, transformative experiences, and the courage to keep going even when the path isn’t clear.
If you’re a leader navigating change, an entrepreneur chasing your next big idea, or someone curious about what happens after the “big win,” this episode will resonate deeply.
Connect with Arvin Singh : LinkedIn 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
Sponsorship: Flagship | Naturally Glutenfree

Oliver Weidlich: The Truth About Spatial Computing and Why It Will Change Everything

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, Oliver Weidlich, Founder and Director of Design & Innovation at Contxtual, reveals why Spatial Computing isn’t just the next big thing—it’s the future of how we’ll work, learn, and connect. With over two decades of experience in User Experience (UX) design and a background in psychology, Oliver has been at the forefront of digital innovation, from the rise of mobile technology to the cutting edge of Augmented Reality (AR). In this conversation, he shares not just the technical side of Spatial Computing, but how it will fundamentally change the way we experience the world around us—and why it’s closer than you think.
Oliver takes us on his remarkable journey—from a curious teenager tinkering with early Apple computers to becoming a global thought leader in UX. His story is a powerful reflection on how technology, when paired with purpose and human-centered design, can create transformative experiences in both business and everyday life.
 
Key Highlights:
The Intersection of Psychology and UX Design:Oliver explains how his background in psychology laid the foundation for understanding human behavior, perception, and cognition—critical elements that influence how people interact with digital products and services.
The Evolution of Technology and User Experience:From the rise of mobile devices to the emergence of Spatial Computing, Oliver walks us through the technological shifts he’s witnessed and how these changes have redefined user expectations and design strategies.
AI as an Enabler, Not Just a Product:Oliver offers a thought-provoking perspective on Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing its role as an enabling technology that enhances user experiences rather than existing as a standalone product.
The Power and Potential of Spatial Computing:Sharing firsthand experiences with devices like the Apple Vision Pro, Oliver explores how Spatial Computing is set to revolutionize how we work, learn, and connect, offering new ways to collaborate, visualize data, and create immersive experiences.
Lessons in Leadership and Lifelong Learning:Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Oliver discusses the importance of finding your niche, staying curious, and fostering meaningful connections—both in business and in life.
Oliver’s passion for blending technology with purpose shines through in this conversation. His insights remind us that while technology evolves rapidly, the core of great design remains rooted in understanding human needs and behaviours. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a business leader, or someone curious about the future of digital experiences, this episode offers invaluable lessons on embracing change, leading with intention, and designing for impact.
Connect with Oliver: LinkedIn 
Connect with Contxtual: LinkedIn | Website
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  Lin | |
Sponsorship: The beauty Chef
 

Revolutionizing Beauty: Carla Oates on Gut Health, Innovation, and Leading with Purpose

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Carla Oates, founder and CEO of The Beauty Chef, who has revolutionised the beauty and wellness industry by championing the connection between gut health and radiant skin. From her early days of dealing with eczema to pioneering the global inner beauty category, Carla shares her remarkable journey of resilience, innovation, and passion for holistic well-being. Discover how her unwavering commitment to natural beauty and self-care has transformed lives and created a thriving business rooted in science and heart.
Key Highlights:
The Birth of The Beauty ChefCarla shares how her daughter's eczema led her to explore gut healing protocols and the transformative power of probiotic-rich, lacto-fermented foods. This deeply personal experience inspired the creation of Glow, the world's first inner beauty powder, and laid the foundation for her groundbreaking brand.
Gut Health as the Foundation of Beauty and WellnessLearn about Carla's philosophy that true beauty starts from within, backed by the science of gut health. She explains the vital role of the gut microbiome in regulating immune, metabolic, and skin health, and how her products empower people to take charge of their wellness journeys.
Overcoming Challenges and Scaling a Global BrandFrom starting with just $3,000 to building a state-of-the-art biofermentation facility, Carla discusses the trials and triumphs of growing The Beauty Chef into an international success. She highlights the importance of persistence, passion, and surrounding yourself with the right team.
Lessons in Leadership and Self-CareCarla opens up about balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with personal well-being. She emphasises the importance of journaling, walking, and nurturing relationships as integral parts of her self-care routine.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring LeadersCarla’s advice is simple yet profound: "Look after your gut, be gutsy, and follow your instincts." She also reminds listeners to be kind to themselves and view challenges as opportunities for growth.
Carla Oates exemplifies the power of following your passion and staying true to your values. Her journey from a small kitchen experiment to leading a global wellness movement is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of meaningful impact. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a wellness enthusiast, or someone seeking inspiration, Carla’s story will leave you motivated to embrace your own unique journey. Tune in to hear her insights, learn about the science behind her success, and discover the beauty that begins within.
Connect with Carla: LinkedIn 
The Beauty Chef: LinkedIn | Instagram | Website
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website 
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website
 

Larry Emdur: Resilience, Reinvention, and the Gold Logie Journey

In this episode of the Leadership Odysseys Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome an Australian TV icon, Larry Emdur. A Gold Logie winner for Most Popular Personality on Australian Television in 2024, Larry shares insights from a career spanning over four decades. From hosting The Price Is Right to co-hosting The Morning Show and The Chase Australia, Larry’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the art of meaningful connection. Join us as we delve into the life of one of Australia’s most cherished media personalities and uncover the secrets behind his enduring success.
Key Takeaways from Larry’s Journey
Resilience in the Face of UncertaintyLarry opens up about the many twists and turns in his career, from being axed multiple times to embracing uncertainty. He shares how these moments of challenge became stepping stones to greater opportunities, building his legendary status in Australian television.
The Power of ConnectionAs a host known for his warm demeanor, Larry discusses how genuine relationships—on and off the screen—have been instrumental in his career. He reflects on how creating great connections helps navigate life's next steps and solidify professional success.
From Surfboards to SpotlightGrowing up in Bondi, Larry’s dream was simply to surf all day. Yet, a series of “happy accidents” led him to a career in journalism and ultimately, the bright lights of TV. His story is a reminder that sometimes, unplanned detours lead to the greatest destinations.
Lessons from The Price Is RightLarry recounts heartwarming stories from hosting The Price Is Right, where he witnessed how a small gesture—like gifting a microwave to a contestant—could transform lives. This experience taught him the importance of empathy and staying grounded in the impact of his work.
Diversification Beyond TVBeyond his on-screen persona, Larry is an accomplished entrepreneur. He talks about his venture into crafting The Ben Buckler, his signature whisky, and how investing in property helped him navigate the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry.
Larry Emdur’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary, blending resilience, humour, and an unrelenting drive to make a difference. From the buzzers and bright lights of The Price Is Right to his Gold Logie win and passion projects like The Ben Buckler whisky, Larry’s story is a masterclass in embracing the journey and finding joy along the way. Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable episode of Leadership Odysseys.
Connect with Larry Emdur: Instagram 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Heart-Centred Leadership: Sophie Firmager on Redefining Success and Unlocking Potential

In this captivating episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with Sophie Firmager, visionary leader, executive coach, and founder of Realised Potential Group. Sophie’s extraordinary journey—from navigating challenges as a young immigrant to excelling as the Executive Director of People & Culture at Tiffany & Co.—is a testament to resilience, emotional intelligence, and purpose-driven leadership. Her story offers profound insights into redefining success, embracing change, and unlocking human potential.
Key Highlights
Redefining Success and Embracing ChangeSophie shares how pivotal moments in her life, including immigrating to Australia and shifting career priorities, taught her the importance of redefining success and staying true to her values.
Heart-Centered LeadershipSophie recounts her transformative role at Tiffany & Co., where she introduced heart-centered HR practices, emphasizing emotional intelligence, authenticity, and purpose-driven leadership.
Building Resilience Through ChallengesFrom overcoming personal adversities to navigating corporate dynamics, Sophie highlights how self-awareness, mindfulness, and emotional regulation are critical tools for thriving in uncertainty.
Empowering Others Through CoachingSophie discusses the inception of Realised Potential Group, her coaching philosophy, and her mission to help leaders cultivate authenticity and foster high-performing, human-centric teams.
Lessons from "She Built It"Sophie gives us a glimpse into her Amazon #1 bestselling book, She Built It, where she chronicles her journey of self-discovery and offers empowering advice for aspiring female leaders.
Sophie Firmager’s inspiring journey is a testament to the power of resilience, authenticity, and purposeful leadership. Her insights into self-reflection, redefining success, and navigating challenges provide invaluable lessons for leaders and aspiring changemakers alike. If you’re ready to embrace your unique potential and unlock success on your own terms, this episode is a must-listen. Connect with Sophie on LinkedIn to join her thriving leadership community and explore her impactful coaching programs.
Connect with Sophie: LinkedIn 
Realised Potential Group: Website LinkedIn
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
Sponsorship Ad: Flagship website 
 

Mastering Your Inner Game: Stella Petrou Concha on Self-Mastery, Resilience, and Leading with Purpose

Mastering Your Inner Game: Stella Petrou Concha on Self-Mastery, Resilience, and Leading with Purpose
In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we welcome Stella Petrou Concha, the Co-Founder and CEO of Reo Group, an award-winning recruitment firm that has redefined the way businesses approach talent acquisition and leadership. Stella’s journey is as diverse as it is inspiring—starting in medicine and evolving into a trailblazing career in recruitment and executive development. With over two decades of experience, she has helped professionals unlock their potential, build high-performing teams, and create meaningful impact within their organisations. Throughout this conversation, Stella shares her insights on self-mastery, leadership, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Key Highlights:
A Remarkable Pivot from Medicine to Recruitment: Stella reflects on her decision to transition from a career in medicine and how her passion for helping people on a deeper level led her to co-found Reo Group, one of Australia's fastest-growing recruitment firms.
The Power of Self-Mastery: Stella delves into the importance of self-mastery in her personal and professional life. She discusses her book Stone Heart Light Heart – The Intelligence of Self Mastery and how it helps readers take control of their inner world to thrive in their outer world.
Redefining Leadership in Recruitment: Stella shares her innovative approach to recruitment, focusing on delivering an exceptional candidate experience, while aligning leadership and organizational values for long-term success.
Building a Network for Future Leaders: As Co-Founder of HiveQ, Stella explains the importance of creating powerful networks and communities of leaders who are poised to shape the future of leadership.
Balancing Career, Leadership, and Life: Stella offers valuable insights into how she manages her various roles, from leading a thriving business and writing, to mentoring and maintaining a strong family life.
This episode provides a wealth of wisdom from Stella’s journey of leadership and self-mastery. Her insights into resilience, navigating failure, and fostering personal growth are invaluable for leaders and professionals looking to make an impact. For more on mastering your inner world, be sure to explore her book Stone Heart Light Heart.
Connect with Stella: LinkedIn | Website | Instagram 
Learn about REO Group: LinkedIn | Instagram | Website
HiveQ: Website 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website