Sharing Stories Changing Lives

There are moments in life when everything looks solid… and then, without warning, it shifts. In this deeply moving conversation, Ian Westmoreland shares his journey from a life of strength and purpose… to facing stage four melanoma and the possibility of losing it all. But this isn’t just a story about cancer. It’s about what happens within you when life strips things back. About losing physical strength… and discovering something far more powerful. Through honesty, humour, and extraordinary perspective, Ian shares how he navigated the darkest moments, why gratitude became his anchor, and how focusing on what remains can change everything. This is a conversation that will stay with you. Please note: we are not offering any medical advice in this podcast. 

There are moments in life when you can walk past… or you can stop. In this extraordinary conversation, Michael Brosowski shares what happened when he chose to stop — and how that single decision led to the rescue of thousands of trafficked and vulnerable children through the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation. From a childhood in rural Australia to the streets of Vietnam, Michael’s journey is not driven by a grand plan, but by something far more powerful — compassion in action. This episode takes you inside a world many of us never see… where children are trafficked, families are torn apart, and hope can feel impossible — and yet, where courage, persistence, and humanity are rewriting thousands of futures. It’s a story about purpose… about stepping forward when it would be easier not to… and about the quiet, life-changing impact of simply choosing not to look away. ⚡ Warning: This conversation may change the way you see the world — and your place in

Sarah Rowan, in the artworld known as Rowan,  grew up in the Bible Belt where obedience meant safety—and silence. In this raw, luminous conversation, she shares what it cost to hide her truth, the moment the “rug” could hold no more, and how art became both lifeline and liberation. From secret love and survival to reclaiming her voice, Rowan reminds us there’s nothing to prove—only rooms inside us waiting to be reopened.  #LivingYourTruth #FindingYourVoice #ComingOutStory #ArtAsHealing #NothingToProve

What if the biggest turning point of your life arrived disguised as an ordinary day? Rob Manning thought he was fine. Busy, healthy enough, carrying on. But his wife, Claire, wouldn’t let it go — she insisted he see a GP. Rob planned to make the appointment… and quietly “forget” to return. Instead, within minutes, a doctor took one look and said the words that split his life into before and after. In this conversation with Karen Sander, Rob shares the shocking speed of his decline, the surreal experience of a coma, and the moment he woke up with a new liver — a second chance made possible by another family’s unimaginable loss. Together, we explore how you hold gratitude and grief in the same hands, what it means to be loved with fierce steadiness, and why Rob has dedicated his second chance to changing organ and tissue donation awareness and advocacy. This is a story about the quiet moments that save us — the appointments we almost don’t make, the conversations we didn’t plan, and the “yes” that can ripple into many lives. Explore more at thestoryroomglobal.com and step inside The Backstage Pass for exclusive conversations and live storytelling moments from the live events. Keywords (helps search): liver transplant, organ donation Australia, donor families, DonateLife, end stage liver disease, GP check-up, second chance, grief and gratitude, marriage resilience, Story Room Global.      

What does it mean to belong — truly and deeply? In this intimate conversation, Karen Sander speaks with Rugare Gomo, a leadership coach and former lawyer whose life began stateless and unfolded across Zimbabwe and Australia. Rugare shares his journey from displacement and identity struggle to corporate success — and the inner crisis that followed when success failed to bring peace. He speaks openly about mental health, addiction, shame, and the long work of healing, as well as the influence of the powerful women who shaped his life. This episode explores themes of: Identity and belonging Mental health and emotional resilience Migration, displacement, and self-acceptance Redefining success beyond status and achievement Leadership grounded in love, integrity, and purpose A moving story of courage, honesty, and transformation — and a reminder that real belonging is something we build from within.

She looked strong. She was winning. And she was slowly disappearing. In this intimate conversation, Dr Jennifer Hamer reflects on growing up as ‘the talented one,’ the illness no one questioned, and the long road back to herself. A story of survival, second chances, and learning that our bodies are the least interesting thing about us. #EatingDisorderAwareness #EatingDisorderRecovery #AnorexiaRecovery #AthleteWellbeing #MentalHealthInSport

Ian Westmoreland’s life changed forever one ordinary morning on a train to work. He was 59 and a half — an age when most people are winding down, but Ian was just about to begin. What happened next set him on a path he seemed destined for…

Lisa Preston always knew she was adopted, but with that knowing came decades of unanswered questions. Her long search for her biological parents in the UK became an emotional rollercoaster — filled with dead ends, stress, hope, and the quiet ache of not knowing where you come from. In this episode, Lisa shares the deeply personal journey of tracing her roots, uncovering the truth, and finally reclaiming the story that shaped her life.

In this powerful episode, Mick Miller shares his inspiring journey of resilience and transformation as he faced and overcame cancer. His story of determination and personal growth offers valuable lessons for all of us, reminding us of the strength within to face life’s challenges and emerge stronger.  #Resilience #Transformation #CancerSurvivor #PersonalGrowth #Inspiration #OvercomingAdversity #LifeLessons #MickMiller #Podcast #SharingStoriesChangingLives #TheStoryRoom

Jeanette Allom-Hill is the founder and CEO of Lionhearted Foundation. Jeanette shares her inspiring journey and discusses why unlocking your passion and purpose is key to a living a more meaning and purpose driven life.  Tune in to uncover the secrets to living your best life! #Jeanette Allom-Hill #Lionhearted Foundation #Passion and Purpose #Living a Better Life #Discovering Passion #Finding Purpose #Inspirational Journey #Motivational Tips #Life Fulfillment #Personal Growth #Self-Discovery #Building a Better Life #Purpose-Driven Life #Life Transformation #Sharing Stories Changing Lives Podcast

Tim Hewson is a passionate mental health advocate and founder of Mongrels Men, a charity dedicated to improving men's mental health. After 27 years in finance, #Tim Hewson #Mongrels Men #Men's Mental Health #Mental Health Advocate #Emotional Resilience #Mental Health Programs #Community Mental Health #Mental Health Support #Preventing Mental Illness #Australian Men's Wellbeing #Mental Health First Aider #Mental Health Responder #Mental Health Charity #Corporate Mental Health Initiatives #Men's Wellbeing Programs  

With a remarkable career in music and entertainment that spans decades, Nick has not only made his mark as a singer and songwriter, but has flourished as a producer, touching hearts globally. From signing with major labels like BMG Records and Artista Records, to being the creative force behind television series and venturing into film and comedy productions, Nick embodies the spirit of creative evolution and purposeful living. Nick shares how staying true to his artistic vision has shaped his journey and influenced his artistic endeavors, exploring the harmonious blend of passion and purpose. This is Nick's Story

An unforgettable journey as Andra Putnis, author of "Stories My Grandmothers Didn't Tell Me," shares the remarkable life stories of her grandmothers. Learn how these incredible women survived the Second World War, immigrated to Australia, and built new lives from the ground up. Andra's tale is a compelling narrative of resilience, heritage, and the enduring power of family stories. This episode is a tribute to the strength and legacy of our ancestors, offering insights that will resonate with listeners of all ages. #grandmothers, #heritage, #World War II, #survivalstories, #immigration, #Australia,#familyhistory, #resilience, #storytelling, #culturalheritage.

What drives a man to dive into a collapsing mine, save 41 lives, and then go to life on the farm  the next day? Meet Arnold Dix, a hero whose life is as layered as his careers. In this riveting episode of "Sharing Stories Changing Lives," we peel back the layers of Arnold’s life—from his heroic rescue in an Indian mine disaster to his vibrant careers as a barrister, scientist, hairdresser, and truck driver. Discover the boundless joy and energy that propel him through life's challenges and triumphs. Arnold's story is not just about surviving; it’s about thriving. Tune in and be inspired by a man who embraces every moment with a heart full of joy. And yes there is more exclusive content when Arnold joins Karen for a Backstage chat at the end of the podcast. #ArnoldDix #HeroicRescue #LifeEmbraced #DiverseCareers #TrueStories #CourageousHearts #InspiringLives #EverydayHero #BeyondHeroism #  

In this compelling episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Ben Thatcher, an Aria nominated Children’s Artist. Ben is a resilient individual facing the daunting challenge of a life-threatening, rare auto-immune disease called PSC, which causes liver failure. Despite the diagnosis, Ben refuses to let it define him, choosing instead to embrace life with unwavering optimism and determination. Join us as Ben candidly shares his experiences, from the moment of diagnosis to navigating the complexities of treatment and its impact on his family. Through his inspiring story, we explore themes of resilience, hope, and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. But the conversation doesn't end there. For an exclusive peek behind the scenes, join Karen and Ben in the private member area as they delve deeper into Ben's journey, offering even more insight and inspiration for listeners. https://www.karensander.com/member-areas-4 Tune in for a heartfelt exploration of resilience in the face of adversity, and discover how hope can be a guiding light through life's darkest moments.

"Join us as we delve into the fascinating journey of Liza Newell, a storyteller whose passion was sparked by childhood adventures in nature and a world without cable TV. Discover how a transformative visit to the National Storytelling Festival crystallized her dream of becoming a storyteller, igniting a lifelong commitment to crafting narratives that transport audiences to worlds beyond imagination. In this podcast, Liza shares her unique insights, inspirations, and the power of storytelling to connect us with the essence of humanity." #storytelling #sharingstories #storyteller #unforgettablestories #narratives #inspiringnarratives #thestoryroom

Join us on "Against the Odds" as we delve into the extraordinary life story of Tarryn Reeves, a woman whose journey from a farm in Zimbabwe to building a successful life in Australia is nothing short of inspiring. Tarryn's story is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering determination. Growing up amidst the political upheaval of Zimbabwe, her family was forced to flee their homeland in search of a better life. However, the challenges didn't end there. Settling in Australia, Tarryn encountered new obstacles and hardships, but she refused to let them define her. In this episode, Tarryn opens up about the twists and turns she faced along the way, sharing intimate details of her journey and the lessons she learned. From navigating life in a new country to overcoming personal setbacks, Tarryn's resilience shines through as she recounts how she defied the odds to carve out her own path to success. Prepare to be inspired as Tarryn's story reminds us that no matter the circumstances, with courage and determination, anything is possible. Tune in to hear her powerful tale of triumph over adversity, and discover the strength that lies within us all.

Join Vicki Haines on an extraordinary adventure as she embarks on a daring motorcycle journey across three continents to reach London. But this isn't just about covering miles; it's a deeply personal quest fuelled by a cause close to her heart. After experiencing profound loss with the passing of both her parents, Vicki found solace and support at the Yacaaba Centre. Now, she's giving back by raising crucial funds for this vital organization. Vicki will set off from the bustling streets of Singapore, on her motorbike, Mijoy (named in honour of her parents, Milton and Joy)  to the ancient pathways of the Silk Road, Vicki's route weaves through Asia and China, promising breathtaking landscapes and thrilling challenges at every turn. As she navigates through unknown terrain and faces the unpredictable, Vicki's determination and resilience shine bright. Join us in following Vicki's journey, and if you're inspired to support her cause, click the link below to contribute to her mission of making a difference. https://linktr.ee/mijoyride To follow Vicki's journey: www.mijoyride.com https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070027267637 https://www.youtube.com/@mijoyridearoundoz3521 https://www.instagram.com/mijoyride  

Join us in this heart-pounding episode as we dive into the gripping tale of Jason Breen, a fearless wingfoiler who was foiling off Mona Vale was abruptly shattered by a sudden encounter with a breaching humpback whale. Feel the adrenaline surge as we unravel the harrowing moments when Jason's wingfoil became entangled in the powerful grip of the ocean's gentle giant, leading to a struggle for survival against all odds. Tune in to uncover the thrilling details of Jason's remarkable escape and the awe-inspiring bond between man and nature in the face of the unexpected. Don't miss out on this riveting saga of courage, resilience, and the untamed majesty of the seas."

The podcast episode features an interview with Kelly Van Nelson, who adeptly manages multiple roles in her life, including author, poet, executive leader, wife, and mother. Kelly discusses her upbringing in Newcastle upon Tyne, where she faced challenges but found solace in reading and writing to escape the noise and turmoil of her household. She shares her journey of pursuing her passion for writing, eventually publishing seven books with themes centered around socioeconomics and the realities of life. Kelly also talks about her corporate career, which she pursued after leaving Newcastle for London, and how she has climbed the ladder to become a senior executive in a global firm. Despite the demands of her career, Kelly prioritizes her family, emphasizing the importance of blending all aspects of her life and embracing her authentic self. The conversation delves into Kelly's strategies for managing her time, maintaining creativity amidst her demanding schedule, and finding inspiration in everyday life. She emphasizes the importance of breaking down barriers between different aspects of life and allowing them to merge, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling existence. Additionally, Kelly discusses her TED talk titled "Abandoned Superwoman on Krypton," which explores the challenges of balancing motherhood, writing, and corporate life. She reflects on the importance of support from her family and the trust they have built over their many years of marriage. Overall, Kelly's story highlights the power of resilience, creativity, and authenticity in navigating the complexities of modern life. #superwoman #TedTalk #storytelling #author #poet #

Sharon Zabregas, a deaf entrepreneur, shares her journey from silence to strength, overcoming workplace adversity. She grew up bilingual with Auslan sign language and faced challenges communicating with others. Sharon experienced bullying in the workplace but persevered, advocating for inclusivity. She founded Sign Here, offering Auslan teaching, employment support, and advocacy. Collaborations with organizations like Bus Stop Films and Job Access contributed to Sign Here's growth. Sharon advises families with hard of hearing members to seek support and provide bilingual communication options. She shared her story at live events like the Story Room, emphasizing the power of storytelling to create change. Sharon's resilience and determination exemplify the transformative impact of sharing stories and fostering inclusivity. #SilenceToStrenght #InclusivityMatters #Deaf #HardOfHearing #SignLanguageAwareness #OvercomingAdversity #BuildingInclusiveCommunities #InspiringStories #ChangingLives #SignLanguageAwareness #Auslan

Ever wondered how riding waves and crafting poetry become synergistic? Welcome to Dippy's World as we dive into the serene and adventurous world of surfing intertwined with the mesmerizing art of poetry on "Riding Waves, Crafting Verses." Join Dippy, affectionately known for most of his life, as he shares his remarkable journey from the sun-kissed shores of Cronulla to the depths of poetic expression. Happily married for many decades, a devoted father, and cherished grandfather, Dippy's unexpected journey into the realm of poetry began with a simple pen and paper. Despite never considering himself a writer, in a few short years he has penned over 5000 poems, each a testament to the beauty of his experiences, both on and off the waves. Join us as we delve into the depths of Dippy's soul-stirring poetry and discover the profound connection between riding waves and crafting verses. Whether you're a seasoned surfer, a poetry enthusiast, or simply a seeker of inspiration, Dippy’s journey is inspiring. #SurfingPoetry #RidingWaves #CraftingVerses #PoeticJourney #OceanInspiration #SurfLife #StorytellingPodcast #PoetryCommunity #WaveRiders #SurfCulture https://www.facebook.com/mark.dippy.52

Join us as we delve into the enchanting world of storytelling with Colin Urwin, a true virtuoso of the craft. Colin's passion for storytelling knows no bounds; from the quaint Glens of Antrim in Northern Ireland, he draws inspiration from local legends and folklore, weaving them into mesmerizing tales that captivate audiences worldwide. Colin's journey as a storyteller is nothing short of remarkable. A modern-day Seanachaí, he graces stages with his magnetic presence, effortlessly blending music, monologues, and the spoken word to create unforgettable experiences. But his love for storytelling doesn't end there. Colin is equally dedicated to nurturing the storytellers of tomorrow, sharing his expertise through workshops and performances at festivals across Ireland, the UK, and beyond. In this podcast, we'll uncover the essence of Colin Urwin's storytelling magic. From his profound connection to his homeland's

"In the gripping continuation of our interview with Danny Shannon, witness the extraordinary journey from ruin to redemption as he defies the odds, emerging from the shadows of addiction and self-destruction. Part 2 unveils Danny's remarkable transformation, breaking free from the vicious cycle of rehab and unveiling the inspiring narrative of resilience. Explore how Danny, against all odds, crafts a purposeful life, dedicating himself to helping others navigate their own struggles. Learn about the genesis of his groundbreaking venture, Encapsulator, a symbol of triumph over adversity and a testament to the unwavering strength that can be found in building a life truly worth living. Join us on this profound voyage of self-discovery, hope, and the relentless pursuit of a brighter tomorrow." #storytelling #narrative #ruintoredemption #storyteller # To leave a  comment on our facebook or instagram page https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/ Website for members area. www.thestoryroom.au    To learn more about Danny Shannon https://encapsulator.io/about-us/

Join us in this powerful two-part interview as we delve into the remarkable journey of Danny Shannon, a reformed addict turned advocate. In the first part, we explore Danny's turbulent past, marked by the gripping challenges of addiction, a stint behind bars, and a daring escape. Against all odds, Danny's resilience shines through as he shares the raw and unfiltered details of his life's darkest chapters. This is a story of redemption, and the road to a brighter future begins here. Listen now to witness the transformative tale unfold and find inspiration in the face of adversity. #AddictionRecovery #Resilience #RedemptionJourney #PodcastInspiration Danny Shannon https://encapsulator.io/about-us/ Leave a comment  https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/

In this powerful episode of Sharing Stories Changing Lives, we delve into the heart breaking plight of the Uyghur community, as they face unimaginable challenges in the remote corners of North Western China. Unveiling the stark reality of their forced confinement, we explore the haunting echoes of a modern-day tragedy, where people are cornered into what can only be described as a concentration camp. Join us as we shine a light on the struggles of the Uyghurs, exposing a deeply troubling narrative that demands attention, empathy, and a call for change. For one Uyghur, Sadam, who is an Australian citizen and an army of people, including Michael Bradley, a human rights lawyer from Marque Lawyers, Susan Barton, MTA travel, Sarah who first tries to help Sadam, and journalist Sophie McNeil—the people Sadam refers to as his angels—embark on what can only be described as an effort beyond tireless determination to free Sadam’s wife and firstborn child safely to Australia. Together, they weave a story of resilience, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice in the face of an overwhelming challenge. We would love to hear from you and your thoughts or ideas for this podcast. Please reach out by visiting the website www.thestoryroom.au https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/ https://www.marquelawyers.com.au/ www.mtatravel.com.au/sbarton

In the tapestry of human existence, storytelling emerges as an intricate art form, weaving threads of experience, emotion, and imagination into a narrative that transcends time and connects us all. While we may casually engage in storytelling in our daily lives, sculpting it into a refined craft requires years of dedication and honing. Enter Noa Baum, a luminary in the realm of storytelling, whose journey is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of narrative. Noa's path to becoming a professional storyteller and coach was not a predetermined one. Life, with its unpredictable twists, led her to an unexpected destination—a place where stories hold sway and captivate audiences around the world. Today, Noa stands as a beacon in the storytelling community, traversing continents to share her tales, delivering a compelling TedX talk, and imparting her wisdom through workshops designed to illuminate the path for aspiring storytellers. Her narrative is not just a chronicle of personal triumph, but a testament to the universal allure of storytelling. As we delve into Noa's story, we uncover the layers of passion, perseverance, and the serendipitous turns that shaped her into the esteemed storyteller she is today. Join us as we unravel the tapestry of Noa Baum's life, a testament to the artistry and profound impact of storytelling on the human experience.   https://noabaum.com/ We would love to hear from you and your thoughts or ideas for this podcast. Please reach out by visiting the website www.thestoryroom.au https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/ Retraction: In the opening sentences I state a quote by The NY Times when in fact it is The Washington Post. Apologies to Noa and The Washington Post 

Elizabeth a full-time mother of 4 and a wife experienced a sudden realisation that she had lost her way. This awakening propelled her on a profound journey of reflection, discovery and personal growth, as she sought and found her true passion and purpose in life.   We would love to hear from you and your thoughts or ideas for this podcast. Please reach out by visiting the website www.thestoryroom.au https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/

As an expert in the field of psychology and a seasoned author, Gunter shares valuable insights drawn from his rich journey. Gunter's journey is nothing short of extraordinary—from leaving Austria at the age of 12 to embarking on a career that has been dedicated to understanding and working with men and boys.With a wealth of experience, Gunter has become a leading voice in the exploration of masculinity. His notable work, "Making Good Men Great: Surfing the New Wave of Masculinity," delves into the intricacies of navigating the evolving landscape of what it means to be a man in today's world. Join us as Gunter shares his insights, wisdom, and the invaluable lessons he has gathered along the way. From his personal journey to the privilege of working closely with men, this episode promises a deep dive into the fascinating world of psychology and the transformative power of self-discovery. Stay tuned for an enriching conversation with Gunter Swoboda. We would love to hear from you and your thoughts or ideas for this podcast. Please reach out by visiting the website www.thestoryroom.au https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/        

Dr. Florence Cotel's captivating story begins with a daring journey through South America, where she and her ex-partner set out to cycle 12,000 kilometres, from the equator to the continent's southern tip, using only human power. They carried minimal equipment, including a basic phone with no GPS. Their adventure takes an unexpected turn as they face daunting challenges, including a broken pannier and the realization that they're lost in one of the world's biggest deserts. With no reception, unreliable maps, and a compass that failed them, they have only one thing left: their dream of reaching the continent's southernmost point. We would love to hear from you and your thoughts or ideas for this podcast. Please reach out by visiting the website www.thestoryroom.au https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/

Tony Loughran's journey reads like an adrenaline-fueled odyssey through the world's most perilous arenas. From his humble beginnings, enlisting in the British Navy at 18 without qualifications, to mastering the role of a ship's medic, his career escalated into the heart of danger. Achieving the esteemed Green Beret and Commando Medal after enduring the gruelling Commando Course, Tony embarked on harrowing tours in conflict zones, Tony's captivating podcast unveils the gripping narrative of a fearless journey through danger, courage, and unwavering resilience in the face of the world's most daunting challenges. Tony recently had his first book published, “Zero Risk- Keeping Others Safe in a Dangerous World” We would love to hear from you and your thoughts or ideas for this podcast. Please reach out by visiting the website www.thestoryroom.au https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/

Raise your Glass: The Tale of Bucketty’s Brewery" Join us for an inspiring journey as we sit down with Nick McDonald, the visionary behind Bucketty’s Brewery. In this gripping interview, Nick recounts the incredible saga of resilience alongside his wife, Alexi, as they conquered every obstacle to establish their dream brewery. From navigating initial hurdles to battling through the challenges of a global pandemic, their story is a testament to unwavering courage, sheer determination, and unyielding grit. Most would have surrendered, but not this remarkable duo—they pressed forward, defying the odds at every turn. Their narrative exemplifies the power of resilience, showcasing that even in the face of adversity, the impossible becomes possible. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a lover of craft beer, or simply seeking inspiration, this tale of triumph against all odds will leave you raising your glass to the indomitable spirit of Nick and Alexi McDonald. #BuckettyBrewery #brewerytales#resilience #craftbeerstory #truespirit #courage #determination #grit #inspirational #power  We would love to hear from you and your thoughts or ideas for this podcast. Please reach out by visiting the website www.thestoryroom.au https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/  

In the inaugural episode of the Sharing Stories Changing Lives podcast, host Greg Vinall sits down with Karen Sander, the visionary behind this ground-breaking series. This candid conversation delves into Karen's rich tapestry of experiences within the realms of storytelling, podcasting, radio hosting, and community TV presentations. As a respected podcaster himself, Greg navigates through Karen's journey, unearthing the passion and purpose that drive her to harness the transformative power of stories. Listeners are invited on a captivating exploration of Karen's background, providing a compelling glimpse into the creative forces propelling this inspiring podcast.  Learn more about the podcast and what you can expect every week on Sharing Stories Changing Lives. You can also visit the website www.thestoryroom.au We would love to hear from you and your thoughts or ideas for this podcast. Please reach out by visiting the website www.thestoryroom.au https://www.facebook.com/thestoryroom.aus https://www.instagram.com/the_story.room/