This episode's guest, Andrew Rhodes, is the definition of when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Andrew is an extraordinary Australian who, after being diagnosed with brain cancer and then facing a devastating reoccurrence, chose not to slow down but to rise with an unshakeable, positive attitude and a deeply motivated spirit.

Andrew took on one of Norway's hardest hiking challenges, the three hundred and fifty kilometre massive Ruta, becoming the first Australian on record to complete it.

His story is one of resilience, courage and the power of mindset and was so excited to have him here on "Heads up With Em" to share it with us.

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In Episode 5 of Heads Up with Em, It was a pleasure to connect with Anna Lowvey as we shared many similarities in our journeys, especially that of motherhood… juggling a toddler and a cancer diagnosis. However, Anna bravery shares a huge loss in her journey that is truly heartbreaking.

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In this powerful episode, Emily sits down with Professor Richard Scolyer - world-renowned pathologist and co-director of Melanoma Institute Australia - and his wife Dr Katie Nicoll, to talk about life, love, and resilience in the face of brain cancer. Together, they share an honest and deeply inspiring conversation about hope, research, and the strength of partnership through adversity.

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Between diagnosis and treatment, Emily shares the deeply human moments that define life after brain cancer surgery — from learning to cook again and caring for her children, to confronting fear and loss. In this episode, Emily talks about her diagnosis of astrocytoma, her relationship with her care team, and finding courage to embrace change — even shaving her head on her own terms.

With honesty and warmth, Emily and Gab unpack the emotional ups and downs that come with survival, resilience, and rediscovering what really matters.

Heads Up with Em is produced in partnership with The Brain Cancer Group.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

Music by DELOSound from Pixabay

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In this emotional episode, Emily shares the pivotal moment of receiving her brain cancer diagnosis while holding her newborn baby. She takes us through the raw experience of telling her family, the frantic logistics of preparing for surgery, and the surreal mix of fear and resilience in those early days. Emily also reflects on her surgery, the immediate aftermath, and the profound shift in perspective that came with her vision loss and recovery.

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In this first episode of Heads Up with Em, I introduce my story as a young mum diagnosed with brain cancer at 30. Joined by my best friend Gabrielle, I reflect on the shock of diagnosis, the challenges of pregnancy and early motherhood, and the power of support from family, friends, and community. Together, we discuss both the hard and the hopeful, to remind others that life after diagnosis is still filled with joy, love, and possibility.

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Welcome to Heads Up with Em — a podcast that brings you real, raw, and inspiring conversations from a brain cancer survivor’s point of view.

In this short introductory episode, you’ll meet Em, a passionate advocate, storyteller, and survivor who’s turning her journey into a voice for others. She’ll share why this podcast matters, what you can expect in future episodes, and how Heads Up aims to support patients, families, and anyone impacted by brain cancer.

Whether you’re a patient, carer, medical professional or just someone seeking hope and resilience, this podcast is for you.

🎧 Hit play, follow, and join us on this journey of courage, community, and clarity.

A heartfelt thank you to The Brain Cancer Group for their generous support in bringing this podcast to life.

Special thanks also to our producer, Dennis Tritaris of Orama Communications, for his invaluable technical expertise and creative direction throughout this project.

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