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In this episode, I sit down at the Watson’s Bay Hotel in Sydney to chat with the multi-talented Marney McQueen—actress, comedian, musical performer, marriage celebrant, DJ and publican—whose journey is as colourful as her career. Our story begins with a meeting at a celebrant conference in Coogee in 2019, followed by spontaneous adventures from Wyong to Broome. Over the years, Marney’s generosity and vibrant spirit have left a lasting impression, and in this episode, she joins me to share her remarkable story.

From Stage to Pub:
We explore Marney’s unique journey from starring in the musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert to buying and transforming a pub. She shares how life sometimes imitates art, and what inspired her to take on this new role as a publican, blending her love for entertainment with hospitality.

Community Impact and Charity:
Marney’s pub isn’t just a venue for music and shows—it’s a hub for giving back. She discusses her passion for charity work, having raised over $250,000 for Central Coast charities through events at her pub. We talk about the profound impact these efforts have had on the local community and how her commitment to making a difference has grown over the years.

A Life on Stage:
With a career spanning standout roles in musicals like Hairspray and memorable characters such as Rosa Waxoffski and Karen the Border Security Agent, Marney’s versatility shines. She also shares stories from her two decades of mentorship under the late, great Barry Humphries, being friends with Michael Caton and Jacki Weaver and how she has learnt that its important to keep chasing your big dreams.

Balancing Big Roles and Real Life:
We chat about Marney’s recent starring role as Celine Dion in the musical Titanique, which ran for nearly a year at the Grand Electric in Sydney. Marney reflects on the challenges and triumphs of juggling a demanding stage role, running a pub, and being a mum—all at once. We also talk about her other role as a marriage celebrant and being cautious with taking on too many weddings so she isn’t letting any couples down.

Red Carpet Moments:
Marney shares her experience attending the ARIA Awards, offering a glimpse into what it’s like to be part of Australia’s biggest music night and seeing Olivia Dean perform.

What’s Next:
We look ahead to Marney’s upcoming projects, including her appearance at the Perth Festival, and ask what new roles or adventures might be on the horizon.
If you enjoyed this episode, PLEASE share it with friends who love stories of generosity, creativity, and community spirit. Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content!

@marneymcqueen

@titaniquemusicalau

@royalhotelwyong

@fashioncritical

@emrusciano

Resources and links mentioned in this episode:

• Instagram: @officiallyemmayoung
• Emma the Celebrant

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The episode opens with a warm welcome to Lauren, where we reflect on her reputation for authenticity and skill as a celebrant, and what its like working alongside her professional wedding photographer husband, Rhys.

Path to Becoming a Celebrant
●The conversation explores Lauren’s motivation for becoming a celebrant, revealing personal insights and the influence of her partnership with Rhys, a professional wedding photographer. The dynamic of working together as a duo is discussed, including whether couples tend to book both of them.

Branding & Online Presence
●Lauren’s website and branding are highlighted, with discussion about the intentionality behind her aesthetic choices and how these have evolved with her reputation in the industry.

International Adventures
●We further dive into Lauren and Rhys’s tradition of spending European summers marrying couples, exploring how this idea originated and how they balance international work with life at home in NSW.

Lauren’s Own Wedding
●I ask Lauren about her own dream wedding, and discuss the planning involved in creating such a memorable day.

Industry Trends
●The conversation shifts to the impact of cost of living on couples’ budgets, and whether Lauren’s reputation attracts clients who are less price sensitive.
If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review, and share it with friends who might find it inspiring. Don’t forget to follow Lauren on Instagram to see highlights from her own wedding and more behind-the-scenes stories.

@hungryhearts_co

@yourdaybychloe (Chloe: Wedding Planner)

@morelifefilms (Chelsea: Photographer)

@bylucy.weddings (Lucy: Content Creator)

Resources and links mentioned in this episode:

• Instagram: @officiallyemmayoung
• Emma the Celebrant

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Ever wondered what it takes to be an Avian and Exotic pet Veterinarian, plus pet content creator plus have time to prioritise health?

In this episode, I chat with Dr Liv, a dedicated vet, content creator for Pet Circle, and proud rabbit/cat mum. We explore how Dr Liv balances a busy professional life with personal passions, fitness, and animal care.

Journey into Veterinary Medicine

• Dr Liv shares her path into veterinary medicine, what inspired her to specialise in exotic pets and small animals, and her experiences studying in WA before moving to Sydney.

Working with Exotic Pets

• Discussion on the unique challenges and rewards of caring for exotic pets compared to traditional companion animals.

Bondi Vets Experience

• Reflections on pivotal moments from Dr Liv’s two years on Bondi Vets, and how these experiences influenced her approach to veterinary care.

Content Creation for Pet Circle

• How Dr Liv became a content creator for Pet Circle, one of Australia’s largest online pet supply companies.

Trends in Pet Ownership

• Emerging trends in pet ownership, especially regarding exotic animals, and advice for those considering adopting an exotic pet.

End-of-Life Care for Pets

• The importance of high-quality end-of-life care and palliative support for senior pets, and what motivated Dr Liv to pursue the VetPrac End of Life Course.

Health and Wellbeing

• Dr Liv’s daily non-negotiables for maintaining health and wellbeing amidst a busy schedule.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with fellow animal lovers.

@officiallyemmayoung
@droliviaclarke
@petcircle
@bondi_vet

Resources and links mentioned in this episode:

• Instagram: @officiallyemmayoung
• Emma the Celebrant