Leadership Odysseys

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

From Podcasts to Digital Strategy: Nathan Bush on Leadership, Teams, and eCommerce Evolution

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with Nathan Bush, a powerhouse in the Australian eCommerce and digital strategy space. As the founder of Add To Cart, Nathan has built a thriving platform that combines his renowned podcast with his consulting work, helping businesses craft effective digital strategies and navigate the ever-changing eCommerce landscape. Known for his contributions to digital transformation, Nathan previously founded 12 High and co-founded eSuite, assisting businesses to scale through innovative, customer-centric approaches.
Key Highlights:
Early Career in Advertising: Nathan began his career in advertising, selling magazine pages across Queensland. His initial experiences laid a foundation in consumer behaviour, which later fueled his passion for digital marketing and eCommerce.
Leading Digital Transformation: At Super Retail Group, Nathan drove a significant digital transformation, growing eCommerce sales from $4 million to $140 million and pioneering innovations like click-and-collect, which positioned the company at the forefront of omnichannel retail.
Founding eSuite: Identifying a gap in eCommerce talent in Australia, Nathan co-founded eSuite to recruit and train specialists. This initiative empowered businesses to build strong, agile eCommerce teams in a rapidly evolving industry.
Host of Add To Cart Podcast: Nathan shares his insights weekly on Add To Cart, where he interviews eCommerce leaders and tackles the latest trends, challenges, and strategies in online retail. With over 450 episodes, the podcast has become a must-listen for eCommerce enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Navigating Leadership and Growth: Throughout his journey, Nathan has learned the importance of authentic leadership, staying curious, and the value of connecting with like-minded industry professionals to drive meaningful change.
Nathan’s journey is a testament to the impact of curiosity, resilience, and continuous learning. Tune in to hear Nathan’s unique perspective on eCommerce and his thoughts on leadership, mentorship, and the future of digital transformation. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring eCommerce professionals and anyone looking to understand the power of building and nurturing digital talent.
Connect with Nathan: LinkedIn 
Add to Cart: LinkedIn | Website | Instagram 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

James Tobin: A Journey Through Media, Adventure, and Making an Impact

In this episode, of Leadership Odysseys, we have the pleasure of sitting down with James Tobin, an iconic face in Australian television. With a career spanning over two decades, James has engaged audiences as the weather presenter on Weekend Sunrise, a tech and motoring expert on Better Homes and Gardens, and the host of beloved shows like Beauty and the Geek. From his early days in radio to exploring diverse roles across the Seven Network, James shares the twists and turns of his media journey, his love for travel, and his commitment to meaningful causes.
Key Highlights:
Journey from Radio to Television: James reflects on his start in radio and how it laid the groundwork for his success on TV.
Adventures on the Road: Discussing his travel experiences for Weekend Sunrise and The Great Outdoors, James offers insights into the unforgettable locations and communities he’s connected with.
Embracing Uncertainty in Media: James shares how he navigates the unpredictability of the media industry with openness and a passion for the work.
Passion for Philanthropy: As an ambassador for charities like Tour de Cure and the McGrath Foundation, James explains his commitment to giving back and using his platform for good.
Words of Wisdom for Future Leaders: James leaves listeners with memorable advice on authenticity, kindness, and making a positive impact.
Join us as James Tobin brings his unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and community. From his engaging travel stories to his meaningful advice for aspiring leaders, this episode is full of inspiration and insights. Tune in to hear more from James and the unforgettable journey that has shaped him.
Connect with James Tobin: Instagram 
Charities: Tour de Cure | McGrath Foundation
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

From Airwaves to Open Roads: Rabbit’s Journey on Resilience, Reinvention and the Power of Storytelling

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, Kirsty sits down with the charismatic "Rab’s" Rabbit, a beloved radio personality who has been on the air for over three decades and has recently ventured into podcasting with his mobile studio, The PodVan Podcast. Known for his energy, humour, and genuine connection with listeners, Rabs shares his journey from radio novice to award-winning breakfast host and opens up about the resilience and passion that continue to drive him. Whether you’re a fan of uplifting stories or looking for insights on navigating career shifts, this conversation is sure to inspire.
Key Takeaways
Building a Career in RadioRabs talks about his early fascination with radio and how he worked his way up in the industry, from dressing as a red nose for promotions to eventually hosting a top-rated breakfast show.
Transitioning to The PodVan PodcastDriven by a desire to connect with people in new ways, Rabs created The PodVan Podcast as a mobile studio to capture authentic, everyday stories. He explains how the podcast allows him to share resilience and joy through heartwarming encounters across the Central Coast.
Mental Health and Self-Care in the SpotlightRabs opens up about his experience with anxiety, undiagnosed ADHD, and the toll of career uncertainties. He stresses the importance of communication, self-awareness, and professional help for maintaining mental well-being.
Advice on Chasing Passion and Staying ResilientFrom his "fake it till you make it" attitude to pursuing dreams despite obstacles, Rabs offers encouragement to follow your passion with resilience and optimism. His story serves as a reminder that opportunities often come from challenges.
Thank you, Rabs, for a real and heartfelt conversation. Your journey, from radio host to the PodVan Podcast, is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of human connection. We’re excited to see where your next chapter takes you and grateful to have had you share your story with us!
Connect with Rabs: Website | Instagram | Facebook 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

From Fintech Disruptor to Healthtech Pioneer: The Story of Kristofer Rogers

Kristofer Rogers is an award-winning fintech and social impact entrepreneur and a technology innovator. Kris has been instrumental in transforming industries, particularly through his work in real-time payments, healthtech, and social fundraising platforms. As CEO and Co-Founder of MediFile, he’s revolutionizing care management for in-home aged care, disability services, and childcare. Kris is also Acting Senior Vice President Australia at Volt, the current UK Fintech of the Year, driving innovations in real-time payments. With pivotal leadership roles at companies like Zepto, Mambu, and now as the Managing Director of Eden Consultancy, Kris continues to drive positive change across the tech landscape.
Key Highlights:
Kris discusses his early life, shaped by his father’s banking career, which exposed him to multiple cultures and countries, giving him a unique perspective on leadership and human connection.
His entry into the fintech space began with launching GoFundraise and SimplyGiving, platforms that collectively raised over $100 million for nonprofits globally.
As the CEO of Zepto, Kris led the company to become a market leader in real-time payments, earning recognition as Start-Up Executive of the Year at CEO Magazine’s 2019 Executive of the Year Awards.
Kris shares his transition to healthtech, founding MediFile to address the growing need for better care management solutions, driven by his personal experience in organizing aged care services.
He reflects on his journey as a leader, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) alongside traditional intelligence (IQ) in modern leadership, citing his father’s influence as a key factor in his approach to building teams and inspiring innovation.
Kris talks about his role at Volt, leading the charge in real-time payments technology, and the importance of creating global, instant, and interoperable payment solutions.
He opens up about the impact of his recent health journey, how it reshaped his approach to work-life balance, and the critical role wellness plays in leadership.
Kris Rogers’ career is a testament to the power of self-belief, innovation, and the impact of technology when leveraged for social good. From leading fintech innovations to launching a revolutionary healthtech platform, and now pioneering real-time payments at Volt, Kris has continuously broken barriers and disrupted industries. His journey reminds us of the importance of emotional intelligence, agility, and adaptability in leadership. Thank you, Kris, for sharing your inspiring story with us on Leadership Odysseys.
Connect with Kris: LinkedIn | Website
Learn about Medifile: LinkedIn | Website 
Connect with Volt: LinkedIn | Website 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Unleashing Creativity and Resilience with Christina Exie

In this inspiring episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with Christina Exie, co-founder of Stacked Studio and former founder of the athleisure brand EXIE. Christina takes us on a journey through her career, starting with her early passion for fashion, winning Project Runway Australia, and how she is now helping other fashion entrepreneurs bring their brands to life through Stacked Studio.
Currently focused on Stacked Studio, Christina offers insights into the challenges of the fashion industry, her entrepreneurial journey, and the pivotal moments that defined her success. She explains how her personal experiences empower her to guide aspiring entrepreneurs in creating standout brands.
We also explore her deep commitment to blending creativity with sustainability, and how her work at Stacked Studio is helping fashion startups thrive. This episode is filled with lessons on resilience, creativity, and staying true to your purpose as a leader and innovator.
Key Takeaways:
Turning Challenges into Success: Christina reveals how winning Project Runway Australia set the stage for her entrepreneurial journey, and how she navigated the transition from building her brand EXIE to co-founding Stacked Studio.
The Launch of Stacked Studio: With EXIE on hold, Christina is now focused on helping fashion entrepreneurs create, develop, and launch their brands through Stacked Studio.
Mindset & Resilience: Christina shares how practices like exercise, mindfulness, and self-care have helped her manage anxiety and maintain a strong mindset throughout her career.
Helping Brands Grow: Discover how Christina’s expertise in brand strategy, design, and product development is helping fashion startups stand out in a competitive market.
 
Links & Resources:
Follow Christina Exie on Instagram: @christinaexie
Learn more about Stacked Studio: @stackedstudio
Connect with Christina on LinkedIn: Christina Exie
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website
 

Redefining Social Impact with Rachael Cook, CEO of Inclusee

Redefining Social Impact with Rachael Cook, CEO of Inclusee
In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we have the honour of speaking with Rachael Cook, a visionary leader who is redefining the landscape of social impact and community engagement. As the CEO of Inclusee, Rachael has pioneered innovative approaches to addressing loneliness and isolation among older Australians and First Nations people. With a career spanning over two decades, her leadership journey is marked by resilience, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Key Highlights:
Rachael's Leadership Journey:
Rachael shares her early beginnings in leadership and how her passion for helping others guided her career path.
Insights into her first significant leadership role as a branch manager before her 21st birthday.
Transition to Inclusee:
The evolution of Inclusee from a traditional charity to a dynamic digital platform under Rachael’s leadership.
The mission of Inclusee to reduce social isolation, and the innovative digital programs that support this goal.
Values-Based Leadership:
Rachael discusses her commitment to values-based leadership and how it shapes the culture at Inclusee.
The importance of trust, respect, and compassion in driving the organisation’s mission and vision.
Challenges and Innovations:
The challenges of transforming a nonprofit organisation and the innovative solutions implemented to overcome them.
Rachael’s experience in managing a remote workforce and the strategies used to maintain strong team connections.
Personal Insights and Advice:
Rachael’s personal anecdotes about juggling life and career, and the importance of resilience.
Valuable lessons for aspiring leaders, emphasising the significance of embracing failure and continuously striving for improvement.
This conversation with Rachael Cook offers deep insights into the complexities and rewards of leading a nonprofit organisation dedicated to social impact. Rachael's unwavering dedication to fostering connections and her innovative leadership approach serve as a beacon of inspiration for all. Join us in celebrating the remarkable journey of Rachael Cook, as she continues to transform lives and communities through the power of social connection. Thank you, Rachael, for sharing your incredible story and wisdom with us on Leadership Odysseys.
Connect with Rachael: LinkedIn
Inclusee: LinkedIn | Website 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website