Uncomfortable Growth® UNCUT

In this episode, Rowena interviews Lou Barrett (Managing Director of Client Partnerships at News Corp), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Redundancy is a reality that many professionals face at some point in their careers. Louise highlights that experiencing redundancy is not just a setback but can be a catalyst for significant personal and professional growth. She encourages listeners to view these challenging moments as opportunities to reassess their career paths and embrace new possibilities. As Louise states, 'If you haven't been made redundant, you haven't had a long career,' emphasising the importance of resilience and adaptability in today's fast-paced work environment.

As Uncomfortable Growth® Uncut returns for a brand-new season, Rowena Millwood opens the first episode with Cheuk Chiang (Group CEO, Bastion), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.Together, they explore the uncomfortable moments, personal reflections, and leadership lessons that have shaped Cheuk’s journey from a seven-year-old working in his family’s Chinese restaurant to leading global businesses across the marketingindustry.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Darren Woolley (Founder & Global CEO, Trinity P3), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.Darren’s story begins with a degree in Medical Laboratory Science from RMIT University, which led him to work in medical research at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne. While he appreciated the community and the discipline of the scientific method, he soon realised that the rigid structure of research did not align with his natural inclination towards communication and creativity.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Jacquie Alley (Chief Operating Officer at The Media Store), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Jacquie opens up about her beginnings in the family business, sharing how her initial reluctance to step into a leadership role transformed into a profound commitment to the agency's success. She reflects on the challenges that come with ownership, particularly the unexpected pressure and responsibility that weighs heavily on her shoulders. The conversation highlights the stark reality of business ownership—the highs can be exhilarating, while the lows can be crushing.

In the latest episode, Rowena Millward interviews Sibon Schouten, CEO and Founder of Markd Global, about her Uncomfortable Growth story.Sibon shares that her early life was marked by challenges, including feelings of being 'born a mistake' due to her unconventional family background. Raised in a rural village, she faced the complexities of identity and belonging when she moved to the UK at the age of eight. This transition introduced her to a world vastly different from her own, filled with cultural contrasts and the struggle to fit in.

In the latest episode of Uncomfortable Growth® Uncut, Rowena Millward has an enlightening conversation with Amanda Broderick, Head of International Marketing, Energizer Holdings, on her uncomfortable growth story.Amanda shares her personal journey, beginning with her first international assignment to Singapore in her early 20s. This significant life change was not just a professional leap but also a personal one, as she left behind friends, family, and the familiar comforts of home. The emotions that accompanied this transition—excitement, fear, and uncertainty—are relatable to anyone who has faced a similar crossroads.

In the latest episode of Uncomfortable Growth® Uncut, Rowena Millward welcomes Reg Raghavan, CEO of CulturalPulse, for a deep dive into the complexities of cultural identity and personal growth. Reg's unique perspective as the son of Indian migrants in Australia offers listeners a rare glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of navigating dual cultures.Reg shares how he found himself straddling two worlds, shaped by his parents' Indian heritage and the Australian landscape. He reflects on how these experiences have influenced his identity, often leading to uncomfortable growth moments that forced him to confront his assumptions and beliefs. Reg shares poignant stories from his hildhood, illustrating the stark contrasts between his home life and that of his peers, highlighting the challenges of growing up in a multicultural environment.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Philippa Noilea-Tani (Chief Investment & Operating Officer, Wavemaker ANZ), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Philippa shares her personal experiences, including the profound impact of losing her father to suicide at a young age. This pivotal moment shaped her understanding of the importance of balancing work and personal life. Reflecting on her career, she acknowledges that while she thrived in her professional environment, she often leaned into work as a comfort zone, neglecting the more challenging aspects of her personal life.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Andrew Howie (Founder, Gallant Creative Advisory), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.Andrew's journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of career paths. He reflects on his early aspirations of becoming a ski instructor, a dream abruptly cut short by his father's insistence that he complete his degree. This pivotal moment set the stage for a career in marketing, where he found himself navigating the challenges of the Global Financial Crisis at a young age. Andrew candidly shares his experiences of being made redundant and the emotional turmoil that accompanied it, highlighting the importance of understanding the distinction between external circumstances and personal capabilities.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Potta Findikidis (Group Head of Brand & Marketing, CBUS Super), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Potta's story is one of resilience, marked by a significant career transition after 16 years at Telstra. Leaving a role where she felt at home was not just a professional change; it was a profound personal journey. She candidly discusses the identity crisis that followed her departure, revealing how the absence of a familiar environment can leave one feeling lost. This resonates with many who have faced similar crossroads, highlighting the emotional complexities of career changes.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Jason Tonelli (Chief Executive Officer, Zenith Media Australia), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.Jason's story begins with a pivotal moment in his life when his parents announced their separation. This unexpected change forced him to confront the instability in his life, leading him to view the world in black and white terms. Such a perspective, while initially offering a sense of control, also distanced him emotionally from important decisions. As he navigated through this period, he began to struggle academically, ultimately discovering he had ADHD—a diagnosis that was not widely understood during his school years. Despite these challenges, Jason has come to view his ADHD as a 'superpower' that has driven his resilience and adaptability in both personal and professional realms.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Amber Scotto Di Perta (Chief Client Officer, Edelman Australia), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Amber opens up about the devastating loss of her mother, who struggled with severe depression and ultimately took her own life. This life-altering event occurred while Amber was building her career in London, leaving her feeling lost and in free fall. She reflects on how this traumatic experience forced her to become more self-reliant and ultimately shaped her into the strong leader she is today.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Zunilka Whitnall (Global Cause Partnerships, Unicef Australia), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Zunilka begins by sharing her unexpected transition from a successful career in media marketing to the world of humanitarian aid. This shift was not just a professional change, but a deeply personal journey that began during a challenging time in her life—her first experience of motherhood. As she navigated the complexities of being a new parent, Zunilka found herself feeling isolated and lonely, prompting her to seek meaningful connections. This led to the creation of an intergenerational playgroup, which brought joy not only to her but also to the elderly participants and their families.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Sarla Fernando (Vice Chair, ADMA Regulatory and Advocacy Working Group), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Sarla shares her experiences of loss, particularly the passing of her parents, and how these events shaped her understanding of time and relationships. She reflects on the wisdom imparted by her father, using the metaphor of a butterfly struggling to break free from its cocoon. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder that growth often comes from discomfort and that embracing our struggles can lead to profound personal transformation.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Taz Papoulias (Founder/Head of Strategy, seamlessmedia.com.au), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.Taz opens up about the last decade of his life, which has been fraught with difficulties, including the recent passing of his father. This profound loss has been a catalyst for Taz, prompting him to reflect on his life choices and the importance of mental health. He shares how he made the brave decision to leave a toxic work environment to focus on his well-being and launch his own business.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Louise Cummins (Co-Founder, Australian Centre for AI in Marketing), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Louise began her career at a time when the marketing landscape was undergoing seismic shifts. From introducing Invisalign to Australia to marketing DVDs and Blackberries, she has witnessed firsthand the evolution of technology and its impact on consumer behaviour. Throughout her career, Louise has learned that stepping outside of one's comfort zone is essential for growth. She believes that it is in these uncomfortable moments where the magic truly happens.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Julia Zaetta (Editor in Chief, Australian Carers Guide), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Julia reflects on her time in the industry, highlighting the significance of passion in her work. She believes that loving what you do is not just a luxury; it’s essential for maintaining motivation and energy. This sentiment is particularly poignant as she recounts her own struggles with grief after losing close family members within a short period. Julia's story serves as a powerful reminder that life can change in an instant, and it’s crucial to find ways to reconnect with ourselves during such tumultuous times.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Wayne Brown (Founder, Cureative), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.Wayne opens up about his challenging childhood, marked by trauma and adversity. He reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his life, from experiencing family violence to navigating the complexities of relationships and loss. These experiences, while painful, became the catalyst for his personal growth and transformation.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Joanna Robinson (Chief Marketing Officer, The Iconic), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Joanna’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. She shares her initial experiences stepping into the role of CMO as an interim leader, where she had to navigate the complexities of team restructuring. The emotional toll of making redundancies is a challenge that many leaders face, and Joanna candidly discusses her approach to managing these difficult situations while prioritising the well-being of her team.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Chris Whitnall (Head of Marketing, ANZ), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.Chris shares several pivotal moments in his life that exemplify this concept. For instance, he moved to the UK with little experience and a dodgy visa, driven by a desire to explore new opportunities. Despite the initial hardships, this move ultimately shaped his career in profound ways. Similarly, his decision to transition from agency work to a role at the ABC was driven by a desire for growth and a passion for media. These decisions were not easy, but they were instrumental in his journey.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Melissa Hopkins (Director, Golden Eagle Advisory), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Mel opens up about her challenges with mental health, including a significant episode that led her to seek psychiatric care. Her honesty about the struggles she faced and the stigma surrounding mental illness is both refreshing and necessary. She emphasises that uncomfortable growth often comes from moments of deep discomfort, and it is in these moments that we truly learn about ourselves.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Pejman (PJ) Milani (Founder, Milani Creative), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.PJ’s story begins with a feeling of stagnation; despite his dedication to teaching and helping his students, he found himself grappling with self-doubt and a lack of creative output. It wasn't until he turned 41 that he realised he needed to take action. He began journaling and reflecting on his creative aspirations, leading him to confront the nagging feeling of unfulfilled potential that had been haunting him for years.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Leisa Bacon (Non Executive Board Member, AANA and Legs On The Wall), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Leisa shares a story she’ll never forget—one that starts in the heart of Fish River Canyon in Africa, long before GPS or Google Maps. Imagine a group of friends, armed with nothing but dog-eared guidebooks, hiking through one of the most unforgiving landscapes on earth, learning—in real time—how quickly things can go sideways when water runs low and temperatures soar. What unfolded wasn’t just a story of survival, but a powerful lesson in resilience, leadership, and the kind of growth that only comes when you’re completely outside your comfort zone.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Clive Burcham (Founder of Compadres), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.Clive's journey is a testament to the power of discomfort and the importance of balancing business success with personal well-being. His story begins with his impressive achievements in the business world. He has started and sold agency businesses to holding companies and played a pivotal role in the success of Global Citizen. Despite these accomplishments, Clive's journey has been anything but smooth.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Jo Gaines, Head of APAC, ASANA, on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Jo's story begins with her professional challenges, including facing redundancy while working at a publisher. At the time, she was a single parent with a four-year-old and a newborn baby, trying to juggle the demands of her general manager role. The redundancy news came as a devastating blow, making her question her identity and capabilities. However, Jo's reflection on this period reveals how it became a pivotal moment for her personal and professional growth.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Dan Gregory (Author, Host and Social Commentor), on his Uncomfortable Growth story.Dan shares his life-changing journey of overcoming a severe health crisis that almost cost him his life, redefining his identity, and emerging 65kg lighter. His story isn't just about shedding physical weight; it's about the weight of identity, habits, and deeply ingrained beliefs. Don't miss this witty and humorous episode, from a master of behavioral science - who has walked the hard path of transformation himself.

In the latest episode of Uncomfortable Growth Uncut, we have the privilege of hearing from Sherilyn Shackell, the Founder of The Marketing Academy. Sherilyn’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery, showcasing how a life-altering event can lead to profound change.Sherilyn’s story begins with a serious illness that struck when she was in her early 40s. As a successful headhunter running her own firm, she was caught in the relentless cycle of work, striving for more while sacrificing her well-being. It wasn’t until a near-fatal health crisis that she was forced to confront her choices and the path she was on. This pivotal moment became the catalyst for her transformation.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Christie Meischke (Director of Talent Experience at Omnicom Media Group), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Christie shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey of raising her son Will, who was born with dwarfism. From the initial shock and uncertainty to becoming a passionate advocate and educator, Christie’s story is one of resilience, strength, and growth.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Lisa Walker (co-founder of Eir Women), on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Lisa opens up about the impact of her husband's alcoholism, his death, and the challenges of raising her 2 sons alone. While Lisa talks openly about addiction and grief, she also shares how committing to a “year of yes" helped her rediscover her purpose and optimism. Listen now and let Lisa Walker's story touch your heart.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Pia Coyle (Managing Director, PHD Sydney) on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Pia takes us through her uncomfortable growth journey of divorce, self-discovery, and the lessons learned along the way. From redefining her identity to embracing vulnerability in leadership, her experiences are a powerful reminder of the strength within us all, and our ability to reinvent.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Tracy Hall (Keynote Speaker | Author 'The Last Victim') on her Uncomfortable Growth story.Tracy shares her harrowing and inspiring journey, detailing her experience of being deceived by one of Australia's most notorious conmen, who defrauded her of her life savings. Tune in to hear Tracy's story, a testament to her resilience, self-compassion and incredible inner strength.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Philippa Moig (Google Media Lead for Australia and NZ), on her Uncomfortable Growth® story.Philippa opens up about the reality of uncomfortable growth—how it challenges us, reshapes us, and forces us to redefine success on our own terms.For years, Philippa thrived in a role she loved. But over time, that spark faded. She craved something new, something bigger. When the opportunity to lead a massive team of 70 people with 250 stakeholders came her way, it seemed like the perfect next step. But stepping into the role wasn’t just a promotion—it was a wake-up call.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Emma Jensen, VP of Small Business at Optus, on her Uncomfortable Growth story. Emma’s story begins with a pivotal moment—a separation from her husband that left her feeling like she had failed for the first time in her life. As a natural problem solver, Emma was used to finding solutions and controlling outcomes. However, this event was different; it was beyond her control and left her grappling with a profound sense of failure.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Joanne Painter (Group Managing Director and Co-Founder of Icon Agency), on her Uncomfortable Growth story. Joanne shares her experiences with impostor syndrome, the importance of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of female leadership. Tune in to hear her insights on balancing work and life, embracing emotional intelligence, and navigating the challenges of digital transformation.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Jess White (CEO, Kinesso, Mediabrands), on her Uncomfortable Growth story. Jess’s story is as heart wrenching as it is inspiring. She opens up about her childhood, marked by the responsibility of caring for a disabled sister and the loss of another. These early experiences instilled in her a fierce independence that was, in reality, a façade for crippling insecurity. It's a profound reminder of the complexities behind the faces we see in the boardroom, and the hidden battles that shape each leader.

In this episode, Rowena interviews Nat Harvey (CEO, Mamamia), on her Uncomfortable Growth story. Nat shares her journey of uncomfortable growth, from her time at Seven West Media to her recent leap into a Chief Revenue Officer role in early 2024, and then 4 months later into her first CEO role. Tune in to hear how Nat overcame imposter syndrome, embraced the power of purpose, and navigated the challenges and opportunities that come with a major and unexpected career transition.

In this episode Rowena interviews Daniel Willis (CEO of Claxon and Founder of One03 ), on his Uncomfortable Growth story. Daniel’s uncomfortable growth story spans from a promising soccer career cut short by injury to building and losing a global clothing brand, and finally, to founding the successful agency Claxon, which then is mismanaged to almost going under. Discover how Daniel navigated extreme success to bankruptcy twice, and each time emerged stronger, driven by the unwavering belief instilled in him by his mother.

In this episode, we peel back the layers to reveal 'The Person Behind the Profile' with Rose Herceg - President of WPP, Australia and NZ Rose challenges the status quo with her small business sensibilities and commitment to transparency, kindness, and servant leadership. Tune in to learn how Rose is navigating the corporate giants with an entrepreneurial style, and why telling the uncomfortable truth is the key to her success.

In this episode, we peel back the layers to reveal 'The Person Behind the Profile' with Kurt Burnette – ex-Chief Revenue Officer of Seven West Media. Kurt – a natural introvert, first embraced his lifelong theme of being “comfortable with uncomfortable” when he started a job cold calling strangers and getting constantly rejected. His move to the UK to play rugby, and then back to Brisbane and eventually Sydney landed him at Seven West Media, where he has been for the last 34 years. His story is a testament to constantly pushing through internal challenges to find growth in unexpected places.

Rowena interviews Peter Horgan - CEO of Omnicom Media Group. With “Horgs” just announcing he will be leaving OMG in 2025 after 21 years, you will not want to miss this candid interview about his personal Uncomfortable Growth story. Horgs delves into moments of crisis, where the stakes were high and the future uncertain. He recounts how he and his team faced the reality of a competitive market that was quickly evolving, and how they had to recalibrate their approach to avoid being left behind. Listeners will be riveted by Peter's story of transformation, from the brink of potential failure to steering the agency back to its status as an industry leader.

Rowena Millward interviews Imogen Hewitt (Chief Media Officer of Publicis Groupe ANZ), on her Uncomfortable Growth story. From the daunting decision to move her family to Singapore to start a new agency with no clients or staff, to the realization that growth and comfort cannot coexist, Imogen’s insights are a beacon for anyone standing at the crossroads of opportunity.

Leadership isn't just about guiding a team; it's about facing storms head-on, navigating the unknown, and sometimes, it's about finding the courage to rebuild when everything feels ike it's falling apart. In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Mark Coad, the CEO of IPG Mediabrands Australia and New Zealand, as he shares his raw unfiltered journey through the ups and downs of leadership.

In this first episode, we sit down with Aimee Buchanan, CEO of Group M Australia and New Zealand, for an intimate conversation about the personal trials and triumphs that have shaped her into the leader she is today. Aimee shares her deeply personal uncomfortable growth stories, from the loss of her mother as a child to her rise through the ranks of the media industry. This episode is a powerful remimder of the strength and resilience we can find within ourselves during life's most challenging moments. Tune in and be inspired by Aimee's journey of transformation and success.