THE COURAGE TO LEAD INTERVIEW SERIES

57. ISAIAH DAWE

This next episode of The Courage to Lead is truly special as I had the honour of interviewing Isaiah Dawe, the CEO of ID Know Yourself, a non-profit organisation dedicated to mentoring Aboriginal young people in and out of home care and the child protection system.
Isaiah’s story is nothing short of inspiring, and I can’t wait for you to hear it. Here are some intriguing moments from our conversation:
Leadership from Humble Beginnings:
Isaiah attributes his first true experience of leadership to an Aboriginal elder he called his "foster pop." This elder’s teachings about discipline, hard work, and making good choices left a lasting impact on Isaiah.
The Power of Kindness
A pivotal moment in Isaiah’s life was when a classmate showed him genuine care during a difficult time, igniting a spark in him to extend that same kindness to others.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Despite facing disconnection and mistreatment in foster care, Isaiah found solace in sports and the bond with his younger sister, adopting the mantra, "it’s you and me against the world."
Self-Care and Balance
Isaiah candidly shares his struggles with self-doubt and the importance of self-care, including physical exercise, meditation, and connecting with his cultural roots.
Transformative Mentorship
Isaiah’s organisation has supported over 250 families, emphasising the importance of creating a supportive environment where young people can thrive.
From Foster Care to Leadership
Isaiah’s journey from being taken from his family at two months old to becoming a leader and mentor is a testament to his resilience and determination.
Cultural Reconnection
Discover how Isaiah reconnected with his cultural identity and the profound impact it had on his life and work.
Stanford Experience
Learn about Isaiah’s life-changing experience at Stanford University, where he studied non-profit executive leadership on a full scholarship.  I heard recently the power of education, once you have it (education) it cannot be taken away from you.
Isaiah’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of community support and the importance of small acts of kindness. His journey from foster care to leadership is a call to action for all of us to support and uplift those around us.
A great quote at the end of the interview from Isaiah:  "If there is hope in the future, there is power in the present."  Zig Ziggler
I hope you find this episode as inspiring and thought-provoking as I did. Tune in to hear more about Isaiah’s incredible journey and the valuable lessons he has to share.
Listen to the full episode here.

56. JOHN FOONG

In the latest episode of the Courage to Lead Interview Series, I had the pleasure of speaking with John Foong, Chief Commercial Officer and Managing Director of Agent Experience at Domain Group. With an impressive background that includes roles as the Global Head of Account Management and Customer Engineering for Uber in San Francisco, and Global Director of Partner Sales and Strategic Alliances at Google in California, John shared his unique approach to leadership and team engagement.
Foundation of Leadership: Lessons from Family
John's first true experience of leadership was shaped by his father, who moved from Malaysia to Australia seeking a better life. His father’s leadership style focused on creating an environment that allowed John to grow without imposing his values. This early lesson taught John the importance of setting the right conditions for growth and allowing individuals to choose their own paths.
Earning Trust in a Competitive Environment
John emphasised that in today’s world, leaders need to earn their followers' trust daily. In a competitive job market, employees have the option to work elsewhere, often for equal or greater pay. Therefore, it’s crucial to create an environment where they feel valued and engaged.
Talent Management in a Competitive Marketplace
John’s time at Stanford and Google taught him that Silicon Valley operates as a talent marketplace. Companies must create conditions that attract and retain top talent. At Google, management effectiveness is taken seriously, with regular surveys assessing leadership performance.
Responding to Feedback
When John first became a manager, he realised that being friendly wasn’t enough. Feedback revealed that he wasn’t having meaningful career conversations with his team. He took steps to improve by scheduling regular career discussions and using templates to guide those conversations.
Creating a Psychologically Safe Workplace
John highlighted the significance of psychological safety, a concept he learned during his time at Google. Research shows that teams thrive when members feel safe to express their thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment.
Balancing Competition and Camaraderie
John believes that the best workplace cultures combine a drive for performance with a sense of enjoyment and appreciation. At Domain, social committees and events foster connectivity among employees, contributing to a fun and engaging workplace.
Building and Maintaining Professional Relationships
John shared how reaching out to his network helped him during career transitions. Even distant connections were willing to provide insights and guidance, highlighting the importance of networking.
Mentorship and Career Guidance
Throughout his career, John has benefited from supportive managers and mentors. These relationships have provided valuable guidance during pivotal moments, helping him navigate career transitions and make informed decisions.
Conclusion
John Foong’s insights on leadership and talent management offer valuable lessons for leaders at all levels. By creating an environment where employees feel valued and engaged, fostering psychological safety, and building strong professional relationships, leaders can drive performance and create a positive workplace culture.

55. GEMMA ACTON

In the latest episode of "Courage to Lead", I had the pleasure of speaking with Gemma Felicity Acton, Director of News Operations for Seven West Media. Since taking on this role in June 2024, Gemma’s career has spanned both finance and media, giving her a rich perspective on leadership. Her journey is not only remarkable but also filled with hard-earned lessons—complete with a few battle scars along the way. Authentic, credible, and deeply compassionate, Gemma’s story offers invaluable insights for leaders at all levels.
Here are the key takeaways from our heartfelt conversation:
1. Seize Opportunities Without Overplanning
“Don’t plan too much; seize the best opportunities in front of you.” Gemma shared this advice, which she received early in her career during a job interview. This mindset helped her navigate roles across finance and media, ultimately leading her to her current leadership position.
Her message? Stay open-minded, take calculated risks, and let opportunities guide you—even if they don’t fit into a rigid plan.
2. Early Leadership Lessons Shape Your Style
Gemma’s leadership journey began at a young age when she became a house captain in primary school. This experience taught her valuable lessons about navigating different opinions and emotions. Her advice to aspiring leaders? Seek leadership roles early on, reflect on those experiences, and use them to craft your own unique leadership style.
3. Recognise and Recover from Toxic Environments
After facing a toxic work environment, Gemma took a well-needed break to rebuild her confidence. She stressed the importance of recognising when a workplace becomes harmful and taking time to recover and recharge. Supportive leadership and a strong personal network were instrumental in her career success, highlighting how crucial it is to lean on friends and family during tough times.
4. Open Communication is Key
For Gemma, effective leadership means fostering an environment of open communication. She keeps her office door open—literally and figuratively—encouraging her team to share their thoughts and concerns. Curiosity also fuels her leadership, as she believes every conversation has the potential to teach something new. "Everyone has something to teach you that you didn’t know until you speak w
ith them," she says.
5. Balancing Work and Personal Life
Balancing professional and personal life is a core value for Gemma. She and her husband share both childcare and job responsibilities equally, showing that partnership and communication are essential. A strong support network at home allows her to be fully present at work and enjoy her personal life without compromise.
Golden Quotes from the Episode
Some of my favourite quotes from Gemma in this interview include her reflections on the importance of support from family and partners:
On becoming National Director of Channel 7 News: “When I stepped out and talked to my husband about it, I thought, you know what? That would be a really great thing to work on—just making sure that this is a terrific newsroom to work in.”
Final Thoughts
Gemma's journey offers valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and the importance of compassion. By embracing opportunities, overcoming challenges - relying on your support network of work colleagues, friends and family, fostering open communication, and prioritising well-being - aspiring leaders can navigate their careers with confidence and purpose. Through that strong foundation, create a great place to work for their teams and organisations.

54. JANA PITTMAN

Welcome to "Courage to Lead," where we explore the power of resilience and leadership through compelling stories.
In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to have an extraordinary guest—Jana Pittman. From Olympic athlete to medical professional and devoted mother of six, Jana embodies the essence of perseverance and empathy.
Join us as we delve into her inspiring journey, uncovering how she navigated the demanding worlds of sports, medicine, and motherhood. We’ll discuss her early leadership experiences, strategies for managing burnout, and the critical role of self-preservation. Jana shares how her personal challenges have fueled her empathy, turning hardships into strengths.
Whether you’re seeking guidance on leading with compassion, overcoming obstacles, or balancing multiple roles, Jana’s insights offer actionable advice and a beacon of hope.
Get ready to be inspired and empowered as we uncover the lessons from a true trailblazer.
This is an episode you won’t want to miss!

53. KYLEA TINK MP

Kylea attributes her first true experience of leadership to being the oldest of four children. Growing up in a small town in New South Wales, Australia, she was often expected to step up and help care for her siblings. This early responsibility instilled in her a sense of duty and the belief that if something was broken, she should work to fix it.
Kylea's upbringing in Coonabarabran, a small town with a population of around 3,000, was marked by a strong sense of community. Her parents were involved in local initiatives, teaching her the importance of contributing to the community. This collective effort mindset has been a cornerstone of her leadership style.
Despite her fond memories, Kylea felt a strong desire to leave her hometown at 18 to seek new opportunities. This decision was driven by her need for personal growth and new experiences.
Kylea candidly shares her experience of failing her first year at university, which led to her suspension. This moment of failure became a turning point, prompting her to reflect on her true passions. Encouraged by her grandmother, she shifted her focus to studying communications, which ultimately set her on a successful career path.
Kylea discusses her belief in seizing opportunities, even when they come with uncertainty. She recounts her decision to join the McGrath Foundation after the passing of Jane McGrath, emphasising the emotional connection she felt to Jane's story and the mission of the foundation.
Kylea explains the unique role of breast care nurses, which the McGrath Foundation aims to support. These nurses provide essential guidance through the healthcare system, making a significant difference in the lives of patients and their families.
Kylea is a strong advocate for gender equality and emphasises the importance of including women in leadership roles.
Kylea shares her experiences with community politics, particularly concerning the Australian Electoral Commission's proposed changes to electoral boundaries. She expresses concern about the potential abolition of the North Sydney seat, which is currently held by a woman.
In response to Allan's question about advice for those wanting to follow in her footsteps, Kylea offers three key pieces of guidance:
1. Self-Reflection: Take the time to understand what truly motivates you and what you want to achieve.
2. Build Relationships: Identify key players in your field and engage with them to learn and grow.
3. Embrace Opportunities: Be open to saying yes when unexpected opportunities arise, even if they don't align perfectly with your initial goals.
Kylea's journey exemplifies the courage to lead with both heart and head. Her experiences highlight the importance of resilience, community engagement, and the need for leaders who are willing to challenge the status quo. As she continues her work in parliament, Kylea remains committed to fostering a more equitable and sustainable future for all Australians. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring leaders to embrace responsibility, seek new experiences, and advocate for meaningful change in their communities.

52. ANNA GLYNN

Informal Leadership: The Foundation
Anna's leadership journey began in university, where she often found herself nominated to lead committees and social initiatives.
* Seek Opportunities: Look for informal leadership roles in your community or workplace. These roles can provide valuable experience and help you develop essential leadership skills.
* Focus on Impact: Concentrate on the positive impact you can have on others, regardless of your title. Leadership is about influence, not authority.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
When Anna was offered her first formal management position, she experienced feelings of imposter syndrome.
* Seek Mentorship: Find mentors who can provide guidance and support. Their experience can help you navigate the challenges of leadership.
* Continuous Learning: Invest in management courses and personal development to build your confidence and skills.
Recognising and Building on Strengths
Anna discusses her shift from traditional leadership approaches to a strengths-based model.
* Identify Strengths: Use tools like StrengthsFinder or CliftonStrengths to identify the strengths of your team members.
* Align Roles with Strengths: Restructure roles to align with individual strengths, enhancing performance and job satisfaction.
Navigating Pushback and Resistance
Implementing new strategies often comes with pushback, particularly from those accustomed to traditional methods.
* Use Evidence: Present research and case studies that support the benefits of a strengths-based approach.
* Emotional Resonance: Highlight the positive impact of focusing on strengths, as people are more motivated when their strengths are acknowledged.
Embracing Continuous Learning and Resilience
Learning from Challenges
Anna reflects on the challenges she faced during her leadership journey, including moments of doubt and frustration.
* Seek Support: Identify and connect with your "green apples" for encouragement and validation.
* View Failures as Opportunities: Maintain an optimistic outlook and view failures as opportunities for learning and growth.
Educational Background and Positive Psychology
Anna's educational background, including her coaching and management courses, has significantly shaped her leadership philosophy. Her introduction to positive psychology provided her with practical strategies to implement within her team.
* Invest in Education: Pursue courses and certifications in positive psychology and leadership to deepen your understanding and application of these concepts.
* Encourage Autonomy: Foster a sense of choice and autonomy within your team, allowing them to test various strategies and find what works best.
Launching a Leadership Practice During a Crisis
Anna launched her practice coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
* Be Adaptable: Embrace change and be willing to adapt your strategies to meet new challenges.
* Support Well-Being: Prioritise employee well-being, especially during times of crisis, to maintain a motivated and engaged workforce.
Writing "Strong" and Future Projects
Creating a Leadership Playbook
Anna's book, "Strong," emerged from her desire to share practical strategies for leaders.
* Share Your Knowledge: Consider writing a book or creating content to share your leadership insights and strategies with a broader audience.
* Plan for the Future: Develop a vision for future projects that can continue to provide value and support to leaders.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Anna encourages listeners to seek out their champions—individuals who believe in a better way of leading and creating thriving workplaces.
* Build a Community: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who can support and inspire you on your leadership journey.
* Prioritise Well-Being: Focus on creating an environment where your team can thrive, leading to better outcomes for the organisation.

51. TANYA KUNZE

Courage to Lead: Insights from Tanya Kunze on Leadership, Resilience, and Success
In the latest episode of the "Courage to Lead" interview series, Allan Sicard sits down with Tanya Kunze, a global keynote speaker, author, TV anchor, podcast host, and neuroscience-based coach. Tanya's journey from Johannesburg to becoming a recognised leader in enablement is nothing short of inspiring. This blog post delves into the key themes and insights from the interview, offering actionable advice and detailed explanations to guide listeners and readers alike.
Early Leadership and Independence
Tanya's first experience of leadership dates back to her school days. She describes herself as a natural leader, a trait that aligns with her DISC profile as a Dominance and Influence (DI) type. This early inclination towards leadership was evident when, at the age of 14, she decided to earn her own pocket money. She confidently walked into a clothing store and asked for a job, demonstrating her fierce independence and entrepreneurial spirit.
Embracing Change and Taking Risks
One of the most significant and gutsy moves in Tanya's life was her decision to relocate to Australia with her 12-year-old son. Within three weeks, she packed up her life in Johannesburg and moved to a new country, driven by a desire for a better future. This move required immense courage and adaptability, qualities that have defined her career.
Building a Diverse Skill Set
Tanya's career is a testament to the power of a diverse skill set. Starting with a passion for psychology, she ventured into various industries, gaining deep insights into different business functions. Her journey led her to business coaching and neuroscience coaching, where she combines her understanding of human behaviour with business acumen.
Aligning Thoughts and Feelings
Tanya emphasises the importance of aligning thoughts and feelings to achieve physical and emotional well-being. She delves into the concept of energy vibration, explaining how positive energy can attract positive outcomes. This holistic approach to success is a cornerstone of her coaching philosophy.
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Judgment
Throughout her career, Tanya has faced self-doubt and judgment. However, she has learned to embrace her unique journey and experiences, using them to build a successful career. Her story is a powerful reminder that everyone’s path is different, and success often comes from embracing your individuality.
Conclusion
Tanya Kunze’s journey from Johannesburg to becoming a global leader is filled with valuable lessons on leadership, resilience, and success. By taking initiative, embracing change, building a diverse skill set, aligning thoughts and feelings, and overcoming self-doubt, Tanya has created a remarkable career. Her story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to lead with courage and make a meaningful impact.
Key Takeaways:
* Understand and leverage your natural leadership style.
* Embrace change and take calculated risks.
* Continuously learn and build cross-functional expertise.
* Align your thoughts and feelings to attract positive outcomes.
* Overcome self-doubt by embracing your unique journey.
By following these insights and actionable advice, you can navigate your own path to success with confidence and resilience.

50. SAPPHIRE PARSONS

In the latest episode of the Courage to Lead interview series, Allan Sicard sits down with Sapphire Parsons, a senior workplace lawyer at Macpherson Kelly. Sapphire's impressive accolades include being named the Best Young Lawyer in Australia for under 35 in 2023 and winning the 2023 Lawyers Weekly Under 30 Award for Workplace Health and Safety.
This interview delves into Sapphire's journey, her experiences of leadership, and her unwavering commitment to creating safe workplaces for everyone.
Early Leadership and Founding the Bond African Students Association
Sapphire's first true experience of leadership came during her time at Bond University on the Gold Coast. In 2011, she and her friends founded the Bond African Students Association to represent African students on campus. As the first president, Sapphire played a crucial role in establishing the organization and advocating for the needs of African students.
Growing Up in Zimbabwe
Sapphire's multicultural background, with roots in Zimbabwe, Greece, and Mozambique, has significantly influenced her worldview. Growing up in Zimbabwe, she experienced a blend of cultures that shaped her understanding of diversity and inclusion.
Sapphire's Alter Egos
Sapphire shared an intriguing aspect of her personality: her alter egos. She uses different personas, such as Sophia for family, Yosef for her nerdy, bookworm side, and Sapphire for her professional self. This approach helps her navigate different aspects of her life effectively.
Advocating for Safe Workplaces
Sapphire's commitment to creating safe workplaces, particularly for women, stems from her personal experiences and the challenges she has witnessed in her community. She emphasises the importance of courage and bravery in advocating for change.
Overcoming Personal Challenges
Sapphire credits her resilience to the support she received from friends, family, and mentors. This network played a crucial role in helping her navigate difficult situations and pursue her goals.
Career in Law and Union Advocacy
Sapphire's career journey includes working with trade unions and advocating for workers' rights. Her experiences in union advocacy provided her with a deep understanding of workplace issues and the power of collective action.
Practical Advice for Creating Safe Workplaces
Sapphire advises starting with a clear vision of the desired work environment and understanding the legal requirements that support it. Using the law as a tool to protect oneself and others is crucial in creating safe workplaces.
Conclusion
Sapphire Parsons' journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community support, and unwavering commitment to social justice. Her experiences and insights offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to create safe and supportive workplaces. By embracing cultural diversity, building strong support networks, and leveraging legal frameworks, we can all contribute to a safer and more inclusive work environment.
Actionable Tips
* Build Representation: Advocate for representation and inclusivity in your workplace or community.
* Embrace Diversity: Leverage your cultural background and personal experiences to foster a more inclusive environment.
* Develop Support Networks: Surround yourself with supportive individuals who share your values and goals.
* Understand Legal Frameworks: Educate yourself on the legal requirements and protections related to workplace safety.
* Be Courageous: Have the courage to advocate for change and challenge the status quo.
By following these tips and drawing inspiration from Sapphire's journey, we can all take steps towards creating safer and more supportive workplaces for everyone.

49. ASHA BHAT OAM

🌟 Leadership Lessons from Childhood:
A Journey with Asha BHAT AOM 🌟
In a recent conversation with Asha BHAT, I was captivated by an inspiring childhood memory that profoundly shaped her leadership journey. As a young girl, Asha won a competition and navigated public transport in India, alone to bring her prize home. This early experience, coupled with her defiance of traditional gender roles, laid the foundation for her lifelong determination to empower women. It's fascinating how our early experiences can mould our leadership styles and drive us to challenge societal norms.
💡 Financial Turnaround and Strategic Acumen
When Asha took the helm as CEO of the Southern Aboriginal Corporation in Western A, the organisation faced a daunting $500,000 debt. Through strategic restructuring and governance improvements, Asha steered the corporation to financial stability. Her adeptness in securing investments and minimising interest payments showcases a strategic approach that ensures long-term sustainability. Asha's story is a testament to the power of smart financial decisions in nonprofit leadership.
🌏 Migrant Experiences and Cultural Adaptation
Asha's journey as a migrant from India to Australia is truly inspiring. She shared her initial struggles with cultural shock and employment challenges, facing prejudice and stereotypical judgments. Yet, her resilience and open-mindedness helped her adapt to the Australian way of life. Asha's story emphasises the importance of continuous learning and empathy in navigating new cultures and building meaningful connections within the community.
📧 Email Communication and Emotional Intelligence
Asha provided valuable insights on managing email communication as a leader. She emphasises the importance of assessing the necessity of immediate responses and crafting factual, unbiased replies. Separating emotions from written correspondence is crucial, as it impacts the conveyed message. Her approach to communication, combined with emotional intelligence, has significantly influenced her leadership style, ensuring clear and professional interactions.
🚀 Funding Challenges and Mentoring Future Leaders
Securing and effectively implementing funding is a constant challenge for organisations. Asha discussed the intricacies of grant applications, highlighting the need for thorough recruitment, community consultation, and risk mitigation. Moreover, Asha is passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders, particularly women and young girls. Her commitment to nurturing young talent within her community is a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in future leaders while balancing the demands of leadership and self-care.

48. TERRI MARTIN

Today, I'm thrilled to share with you a truly enlightening conversation I had with Terri Martin, the head of corporate training at the National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA), based at the University of New South Wales.
The Genesis of Leadership: A Tale of Early Responsibility
My chat with Terri began with a question I pose to all my guests: "What is your first ever true experience of leadership?" Terri’s response took us back to her 15-year-old self, working at Harris Farm Markets in Brisbane. To her surprise, she was soon asked to become a supervisor, a role that brought with it a weighty responsibility for someone still navigating high school and extracurricular activities like gymnastics.
This early brush with leadership was a revelation for Terri. It showcased a recurring theme in her life: others often recognised her leadership potential before she did. This formative experience laid the groundwork for her understanding of leadership as an innate ability to manage, inspire, and take on responsibilities, even when they seemed overwhelming.
From Checkout to Corporate Training: A Career of Compassion and Challenge
Terri’s journey from the checkouts to the head of corporate training at NIDA is a testament to her resilience and adaptability. Her story is not just about climbing the corporate ladder; it's about the human connections that shaped her along the way. One such connection was with an elderly gentleman she met on her bus rides, whom she befriended and assisted out of sheer kindness. This relationship highlighted Terri’s innate leadership quality: the ability to recognise and respond to the needs of others.
Empathy in Leadership: Balancing Professional Boundaries
Throughout our conversation, Terri emphasised the importance of empathy in leadership. She candidly shared her experiences of transitioning into leadership roles and the lessons learned along the way. One powerful example was her role in facilitating a positive change in team dynamics at a previous organisation. By fostering open communication and understanding between two conflicting teams, Terri witnessed a significant cultural shift, underscoring the impact of effective leadership on team cohesion and organisational success.
The NIDA Chapter: Leading with Creativity and Purpose
Terri’s role at NIDA is a blend of her passion for creativity and her expertise in leadership. She described a new partnership with the Sydney Swans a large, successful,National Australian Football Club, where she is helping train their staff to be better communicators and have more presence. It's clear that Terri thrives in environments where she can bring creativity to life and make a tangible difference in people's professional skills.
Reflections on a Diverse Career: The Power of Resilience
Terri’s career has been anything but linear. From her time at Presentation Studios, which looks after TED Talks, to her impactful work at Youth Off The Streets, she has navigated various sectors with grace and determination. As a sometimes single mom, Terri also opened up about the challenges of balancing her career with family life, highlighting the support of her mother and the necessity of prioritising what's truly important.
Embracing Imperfection: Advice for a Fulfilling Life
As our conversation drew to a close, Terri imparted a piece of advice that resonated deeply with me: let go of the pursuit of perfection. She urged listeners to embrace "good enough" and to be gentle with themselves. It's a reminder that in our quest for success, we must not lose sight of our well-being and the joy of the journey.
Final Thoughts: Creativity as a Leadership Tool
Reflecting on Terri’s story, it's evident that creativity is not just an artistic endeavour; it's a vital component of leadership.
As Terri so beautifully put it, being surrounded by creativity nourishes the soul and provides the courage to face judgment and turn visionary ideas into reality.