She Mines

FIFO workers often earn good money on paper — but that doesn’t always mean it feels easy. In this episode of She Mines, I'm having an honest conversation about finances, shame, and building money confidence in a FIFO lifestyle.I’m joined by Lacey Filipich from Money School, a former chemical engineer who worked in mining and is now a financial educator. Together, we unpack why so many FIFO workers feel overwhelmed by money, the impact of long swings and lifestyle creep, and how to create simple, practical systems that actually work in a mining context.This isn’t about budgeting perfectly or getting rich quickly. It’s about removing shame, understanding your finances, and taking small, realistic steps toward feeling more in control.If finances are feeling more than just stressful, please know there is free and confidential support available. You can contact the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or visit https://ndh.org.au to speak with a financial counsellor.Or if you want Lacey's Money School risk management guide, it's on the Resources page on https://www.moneyschool.net.au/resources

On site, we’re trained to fix problems. Breakdowns. Delays. Production targets. But what happens when the problem isn’t mechanical — it’s mental?In this episode, I talk about how to actually support a mate who might be struggling. Not as a counsellor. Not with perfect words. Just as someone who notices and cares enough to check in.I unpack the signs someone might not be okay, what to say (and what not to say), and when to escalate beyond a toolbox chat. Because in FIFO and mining life, silence is common — and a simple conversation can make a real difference.Looking after your mate isn’t weakness. It’s leadership.

In this episode of She Mines, I’m joined by Kendall, the founder of the Blue Tree Project — a movement that has become a powerful symbol for mental health awareness across Australia and the world.Kendall shares her deeply personal journey with mental health, the story behind how the Blue Tree Project began, and the impact it has had on individuals and communities. What started from a place of pain has grown into something that’s helping people feel seen, start conversations, and remind others that they’re not alone.We also talk about how these conversations translate into high-pressure industries like mining — where long hours, isolation, and a culture of resilience can often make it harder to speak up. This episode is a reminder of the importance of connection, checking in, and creating spaces where people feel safe to be honest.If you’ve ever struggled, know someone who has, or want to better support a mate — this conversation is for you.If this episode resonates, share it with someone who might need it.To learn more about the Blue Tree Project, get involved, or reach out for support, you can find them on:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluetreeproject/Website - https://bluetreeproject.com.au/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluetreeproject/posts/?feedView=all

Starting your first FIFO swing can be exciting — but packing for it can feel overwhelming. What do you actually need to bring? What will site provide? And what do experienced FIFO workers wish they had packed the first time?In this episode of She Mines, I break down everything you need to know before heading out on your first FIFO swing. From travel essentials and PPE to camp life comforts, food containers, health items and the small things that make a big difference on site, this episode is designed to help new starters feel more prepared and confident.This episode was also built with help from the She Mines community. After putting the call out on social media, FIFO workers from across the industry shared their must-have items, lessons learned and tips for surviving that first swing. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed.And most importantly — don’t stress if you forget something. Everyone does. Your first swing is an opportunity to learn, settle into FIFO life and figure out what works best for you.

In this episode of She Mines, I am joined by Laura, a crisis supporter and facilitator with Lifeline, to explore the human stories behind mental health support.Laura shares her journey into working with Lifeline, what it’s really like supporting people through crisis, and the importance of breaking down stigma around mental health — especially in high-pressure industries like mining.This conversation highlights the courage it takes to speak up, ask for help, and support others, even when it feels uncomfortable. It’s an honest and compassionate discussion about vulnerability, strength, and the power of simply starting the conversation.If this episode brings anything up for you, Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14.

In this Q&A episode of She Mines, I explore the tension between ambition and mental health in the mining industry. Using real listener questions, this conversation looks at burnout, pressure, rest, and what it means to build a sustainable career without sacrificing your wellbeing.I talk about staying ambitious without burning out, loving mining while struggling mentally, and feeling stuck between wanting more and needing a break.You’re not alone — and you don’t have to navigate this quietly.

In this solo episode of She Mines, I take a deep dive into imposter syndrome: what it really is, why it shows up so strongly in high-pressure industries like mining, and how it affects anyone at any level.Drawing on psychological research and real industry experience, this episode explores:What imposter syndrome actually is (and what it isn’t)Why it often intensifies as you move into senior and high-visibility rolesHow mining culture, safety accountability, FIFO life, and leadership expectations amplify self-doubtThe hidden impacts on decision-making, teams, culture, and leadership pipelinesWhy a small amount of self-doubt can actually be a strength — keeping people accountable, thoughtful, and safety-focusedThis isn’t about “fixing” yourself or eliminating doubt entirely. It’s about learning to recognise when imposter feelings are helping you do your job well — and when they’re starting to hold you back.If you’ve ever felt like you needed to prove you belong, questioned your competence despite evidence, or carried the quiet pressure of responsibility in mining — this episode is for you.

As we step into 2026, this episode is a pause — not to slow mining down, but to look at it honestly.Across 2025, one major theme kept emerging: people aren’t leaving mining because the work is too hard. They’re leaving because of culture, fatigue, and the quiet identity conflict that comes with trying to sustain a long career in a demanding industry.In this episode, I talk about:Why technical challenges are rarely the reason people walk awayThe unseen cost of burnout being normalisedIdentity conflict, especially for women navigating mining careersThe mine we don’t want anymore — and the mine we’re actively buildingWhat leadership, safety, and strength really look like undergroundA direct conversation to women in mining, and to the men who shape site cultureThis isn’t about tearing the industry down. It’s about building one people can stay in.If you’ve ever questioned your place in mining, your longevity, or what “success” really means — this conversation is for you.

In this honest, Q&A-style episode of She Mines, Jayden and I have a real conversation about mental health in the mining industry—no scripts, no sugarcoating.We talk about the pressure to stay strong, isolation on shift, the weight of being the provider, and how mental health impacts identity, relationships, and life off site. We also cover what real support looks like, why vulnerability matters, and how the people at home can help.This episode is about starting the conversations we’ve avoided for too long.If you work in mining or love someone who does, this one’s for you.

This episode explores the weight many men in mining carry — often silently.From the pressure to provide, survive in today’s economy, and uphold a culture of strength, to the impact of FIFO life on relationships, identity, and isolation, this is an honest conversation about what isn’t always said out loud in our industry.I talk about:The hidden expectations placed on men in miningProvider pressure and financial survival in today’s marketMasculinity, mental health, and the cost of “just pushing through”How isolation shows up on site and at homeThe role partners and families play in supporting the men they loveCelebrating the men who have shaped the mining industry — and a message to the future generation⚠️ Content warning: This episode includes discussions around suicide and mental health. Please take care while listening and reach out for support if needed.This episode is not about blame.It’s about awareness, understanding, and starting conversations that matter.If this resonates, share it with someone who might need it — and remember, you’re not alone.

In this episode of She Mines, I sit down with career coach Anna Black for an honest and empowering conversation about building courage, facing fear, and navigating career change with confidence.Together, we unpack why fear of failure shows up so strongly — especially in high-pressure industries like mining — and how shifting your mindset can open the door to clarity, alignment, and new opportunities.You’ll hear:• Why fear of failure holds so many people back• How to reframe fear into something that moves you forward• The role confidence plays when making career decisions• How to recognise when it’s time for a change• Practical steps for navigating a new direction• The story behind Anna’s program Define Your Future, and the transformation it createsIf you’re feeling stuck, craving change, or waiting for the “right time” to move forward, this episode will give you the courage and clarity to take the next step.Connect with Anna:Email: [email protected]: au.linkedin.com/in/annalblackWebsite: www.strategiccc.com.au

In mining, technical skill might get you the job — but soft skills are what help you keep growing in it.In Part 2 of this series, I dig even deeper into the human side of mining — the traits that separate good workers from great teammates and leaders.This episode covers:🎯 Adaptability — how to stay steady when the plan, the shift, or the team changes unexpectedly💡 Problem-solving — why creative thinking isn’t just for engineers, and how it can make or break a project🤝 Conflict resolution — the real stories of what happens when tensions rise, and how to handle them with confidence and respectI’ll talk about the quiet leaders who turn chaos into calm, the crews who’ve learned to think on their feet, and the lessons that come from the hard days when communication breaks down.This one is for anyone who has ever had to pivot mid-shift, navigate a tough conversation, or find a better way to work together.

When we think about mining, we often picture technical skills — machinery, geology, production targets, safety. But beneath every strong team lies something less visible and far more powerful: soft skills.In this two-part series, I uncover how communication, emotional intelligence, and empathy shape the culture, safety, and wellbeing of our industry.In Part 1, I’ll explore:💬 How real communication goes beyond words and changes team dynamics🧠 Why emotional intelligence matters more than you think — especially in high-pressure environments❤️ How empathy can transform the way we lead, support, and show up for each otherThis isn’t about buzzwords — it’s about real moments: prestart meetings, shift handovers, and those quiet conversations that change someone’s day.Whether you’re leading a crew, starting your first role, or just want to understand people a little better, this episode will help you build the soft skills that make mining stronger — and more human.

FIFO life isn’t just about the long shifts and the roster – it’s about how those choices ripple through our relationships, families, and personal lives. In this episode, I sit down with my partner, Jayden, to have an open and honest conversation about what it really takes to keep a relationship strong while working FIFO together.We talk about the pressures, the sacrifices, and the unspoken mental load that comes with distance, different rosters, and trying to balance work with love and connection. From the moments that test you to the strategies that help you stay grounded; this is a real insight into navigating relationships in the mining industry.Whether you’re FIFO yourself, supporting someone who is, or just curious about what life looks like behind the scenes, this episode shines a light on both the challenges and the deep rewards of building a partnership in this lifestyle.

Underground or surface — which path in mining is right for you? In this episode of She Mines, I dive deep into the realities of both worlds. From pay, rosters, and culture, to health, family, and career growth, I’ll break down what it really means to choose one over the other.I’ll explore the common misconceptions, the mental load of misalignment between your job and your values, and how to figure out which lifestyle actually supports the future you want.Whether you’re just starting out or considering a career pivot, this episode gives you the clarity to make a choice that feels aligned, not just financially rewarding.

Feeling trapped in mining because of financial pressure? You’re not alone. In this episode of She Mines, I dive deep into the mental load that comes with believing you can’t leave site — because the bills, the mortgage, the lifestyle, and the fear of “what’s next” all feel too heavy.I’ll talk about the hidden costs of staying in a job that drains you, how financial fear impacts your mental health, and ways to start regaining a sense of control over both your money and your mindset.If you’ve ever felt stuck — this one’s for you.

In this episode of She Mines, I sit down with my high school friend, Tarnee Rutherford — a former Senior Environmental Advisor who climbed the FIFO and corporate ladder before making the bold decision to walk away.We talk about life in FIFO, the highs and lows of working on site, the transition to city life, and the pivotal moment when she knew it was time to leave. Tarnee shares how she backed herself, started her own consulting business, and built a lifestyle that gives her the freedom to work from anywhere in the world.If you’ve ever felt stuck in FIFO but scared to take the leap, this conversation is for you.To get in contact with Tarnee at TR Environmental Consulting, see details below:Website: www.trenvironmentalconsulting.comEmail: [email protected]: Tarnee RutherfordInstagram: trenvironmentconsulting

In this episode, I dive deep into what working nights really does to the body and mind. I’ll be honest – I haven’t worked night shift myself, but I’ve spoken with plenty of people who have, and I’ve gathered their insights along with science-backed research to paint a clear picture of the challenges.I’ll unpack:- The physical and psychological impacts of working against your body’s natural rhythm- The connection between circadian disruption and mental health struggles- Coping strategies that actually help – from sleep hygiene to food choices, light exposure, and community supportWhether you’ve worked night shift yourself, you’re about to, or you just want to understand it better, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone in the struggle – and there are ways to make it more manageable.

Starting out in mining is equal parts exciting and overwhelming. In this Q&A episode, I dive into the early career challenges that so many of us face — from imposter syndrome and building confidence in high-vis, to dealing with loneliness on site, finding mentors, and knowing when it’s time to speak up or move on.Whether you’re brand new to FIFO or just navigating those first few years, this episode is packed with honest insights, practical strategies, and personal stories to help you find your feet in the industry.Tune in to hear how to build connections, overcome self-doubt, and create a career that feels right for you.

In this episode of She Mines, I'm talking about what it really means to bring feminine energy into a male-dominated industry — and why it’s not a weakness, it’s a strength.From intuition that spots hazards before checklists do, to empathy that builds trust in high-pressure teams, I’ll unpack how feminine traits actually make mining safer, smarter, and more human. I’ll explore how this energy shows up on site, whether there’s room for it in a culture that still prizes toughness, and how to balance it with masculine energy without losing yourself in the process.If you’ve ever been told to “toughen up” or felt you had to mute part of who you are to belong — this conversation is for you.

In this episode of She Mines, I dive deep into the role of allies in creating safer, fairer, and more inclusive workplaces in mining. From why allies are critical for progress, to how small, consistent actions can lead to big change, I’ll explore the practical ways every person on site can make a difference.This isn’t about grand gestures or titles — it’s about showing up, speaking up, and taking responsibility for the culture we all create. Whether you’re in leadership, just starting your mining career, or somewhere in between, you’ll leave with clear, actionable ideas for becoming the kind of ally that inspires trust and drives real change.

It’s no secret that drinking culture is deeply woven into life on site — from knock-off beers in the wet mess to the pressure of “just having one.” In this episode, I take a look at why alcohol plays such a big role in mining, how dry camps are shifting the culture, and what it means if you choose not to drink.I talk openly about peer pressure, escapism, social rituals, and how to support yourself or your mates — whether you're pouring a beer or skipping it altogether. This is not about judgement, it’s about awareness, choice, and starting conversations that actually matter.Whether you’re sober-curious, navigating a dry camp, or just trying to figure out what role drinking plays in your own experience — this one’s for you.Trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of alcohol use and addiction. If this topic feels sensitive for you, please take care while listening.

Ever felt like you don’t quite fit in at work? Questioned your next move? Or wondered if you’re the only one struggling to feel confident in hi-vis? You’re not alone — and this episode is for you.In this Q&A session, I tackle your real, raw, and relatable questions about workplace culture in mining, building confidence in male-dominated spaces, and what it really looks like to pivot your career — whether that means stepping sideways, chasing something new, or simply slowing down.Expect honest reflections, practical advice, and a few hard truths (with a warm dose of reassurance). Topics include:Navigating cliques, gossip, and toxic cultureLearning to back yourself — even when no one else doesKnowing when to pivot (and how to take your skills with you)Managing other people’s expectations when you make a big moveWhat to do when you're feeling stuck, burned out, or just... doneWhether you’re new to the industry, considering a shift, or just craving a little confidence boost — this one’s for you.

In this episode of She Mines, I unpack the powerful truth that vulnerability isn’t the opposite of strength—it’s the heart of it. In an industry where toughness is worn like a badge of honour, many of us have learned to suppress how we really feel just to get through the day. But what if being honest, asking for help, or admitting when we’re struggling actually made us stronger—not weaker?I explore the unspoken culture of silence in mining, the cost of emotional suppression, and how vulnerability can build trust, improve safety, reduce burnout, and create high-performing teams. I’ll share research-backed insights and examples of what happens when people in hi-vis drop the mask and get real.Plus, I’ll show you how to be vulnerable without losing your professionalism—and how even small moments of honesty can shift a culture.

In this deeply honest episode, I unpack the personal cost of working FIFO — the strain it places on our relationships, our identity, and our mental health. From missing milestones to feeling like a stranger in your own life, this episode explores what happens behind the scenes of the high-vis lifestyle.Through Q&A-style reflections, I answer your most common (and vulnerable) questions:– How do I prepare my family for my first swing?– What if I want to leave FIFO but can’t afford to?– How do I stay connected to my partner?– And what happens when we start to grow apart?Whether you’re navigating FIFO with a partner, missing your people back home, or simply trying to figure out how to make this lifestyle sustainable — this episode is for you.

Complacency doesn’t show up in loud, obvious ways—it creeps in quietly. In this episode of She Mines, I take a deep dive into one of the most underestimated risk on site: complacency.From the psychology behind why it happens, to examples from mining, this episode explores how routine, mental fatigue, and culture can slowly erode our safety awareness. I’ll look at how special forces stay sharp through techniques like scanning from right to left, and how we can apply that same mindset on site to see what we usually miss.I also unpack the powerful link between mental health and complacency—because when your head’s not in the game, your body’s still on the field.Whether you're new to mining or a seasoned operator, this episode will help you recognise complacency for what it really is—and how to fight it before it becomes a serious incident.

In this honest and reflective episode, I explore one of the toughest questions people in the mining industry often carry silently: what if you’ve tried everything to belong, and it still doesn’t feel right? Is it okay to leave?I dive into what it really means to walk away—from a role, a crew, or even a career—and why choosing to leave isn’t a sign of failure but a step toward alignment. You’ll hear insights on recognising when the role or culture no longer fits, how to separate guilt from clarity, and what it looks like to rebuild your sense of identity outside of work.This episode is a reminder that it’s okay to want more, and sometimes, the strongest choice you can make is choosing yourself.

Who are you beyond the high-vis, the production targets, and the long shifts? In this deeply personal episode of She Mines, we explore what it means to reclaim your identity outside of work. Because in mining — and other high-demand industries — it’s easy to let your role define you. We talk about why we tie our sense of worth to our productivity, the guilt that often comes with resting, and how to reconnect with the hobbies, values, and parts of ourselves that can get buried under constant pressure. If you’ve ever felt like the job has swallowed your sense of self — this one’s for you.

In this episode, I explore the invisible mental load carried by so many in mining — the constant thinking, emotional labour, and pressure to manage life on and off site. It’s the juggling act of rosters, relationships, responsibilities, and expectations. For some, it’s burnout masked as fatigue. For others, it’s the emotional whiplash of leaving site and stepping straight into family life. I break down how this mental load shows up differently for men and women, why it often goes unspoken, and how it impacts performance, wellbeing, and identity. Whether you’re FIFO, residential, or supporting someone who works in the industry, this conversation is a reminder that the mental load is real — and we don’t have to carry it alone.

The high-vis, the big money, the long hours — we’ve all heard about the surface-level parts of mining. But what’s the real story behind life on-site? In this episode, I unpack the things no one tells you before stepping into the mining industry: the mental load, the culture shock, the unexpected highs, and the challenges that test your limits. Whether you're new to site, FIFO-curious, or just want the raw truth behind the safety glasses, this episode shares the lessons I learned the hard way — plus the tips I wish someone had told me in year one. I’ll also take a look at the positives that often get overlooked — the friendships, freedom, and growth that come from living and working in one of the most intense industries out there. 

In this first episode, I share my story - growing up in a mining family, starting FIFO life as a site admin, navigating early challenges, and stepping into a new career as a mining engineer.I open up about what inspired this podcast, including my role as a mental health wellbeing champion, and the conversations that sparked it all.This episode sets the tone for what's to come: honest stories, practical insights, and a space for connection in an industry that doesn't always show its human side.