Épisodes

  • Carmen Braidwood

    Carmen Braidwood
    Mar 3 2026
    This week on The Experts Podcast, former co-host Carmen Braidwood returns to unpack what may well be the LinkedIn post of the year and a conversation that has struck a nerve across the events industry. The topic? The ongoing practice of event organisers asking speakers, particularly women to appear on stage for free. With International Women’s Day on 10 March, calendars are filling with breakfasts, conferences, panel events and corporate celebrations recognising the progress of women, especially in the workplace. Yet behind the scenes, many experienced female speakers are still being asked to “donate” their expertise. In January, Carmen posted this on LinkedIn: “Hey women speakers: who’s already been asked to speak for free on International Women’s Day? I have. It’s disappointing that highly experienced women are still expected to donate their expertise.” She went on to share how a high-profile company once asked her to act as a media spokesperson in exchange for “the exposure”. An offer she declined. “Yes, there are times when a reduced or waived fee can make sense. But only when there’s a genuine value exchange. Write it into your contract. Make sure your worth is recognised.” Carmen and Nic break this down candidly and call on event organisers to rethink the expectation that professionals should work for free. Recognition without remuneration is not empowerment. The second major discussion centres on the growing importance of media training. Carmen, a sought-after confidence-on-camera trainer, has seen a significant surge in demand. As communication channels multiply and audiences grow larger and more unforgiving, the ability to present clearly, confidently and strategically has become essential. Importantly, Carmen doesn’t separate “traditional” and “social” media. It’s all media. Whether you are speaking to a journalist, recording a video, appearing on a panel or posting online — you are communicating in a public arena. Media training is no longer a nice-to-have professional development exercise. It is a business necessity in an environment where audiences are bigger, faster and less filtered than ever before. This episode challenges outdated industry norms and reinforces a simple message: know your value and be ready to communicate it.
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    33 min
  • Ashlee Harrison

    Ashlee Harrison
    Feb 24 2026
    At just 21 years old, Ashlee Harrison set out to do something most people wouldn’t even contemplate, start a mental health charity. Seventeen years later, she is still leading it, and the impact is now being felt across generations of young Australians. Ashlee is the CEO of zero2hero, an organisation she founded after losing her stepfather to suicide. In this candid and insightful conversation, she reflects on the difficult early days, learning how not to run events and fundraising campaigns, and how persistence, structure and a business mindset helped her turn an idea into one of the country’s most respected youth mental health charities. Ashlee speaks openly about the barriers she faced getting the organisation recognised, the frustrations of working within established systems, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people including the influence of her mentor, the late Ros Worthington. Named Young Western Australian of the Year in 2016, Ashlee has become a trusted voice in the media on mental health. Her commentary is grounded not in theory, but lived experience, and that authenticity comes through in this discussion. We also explore parenting, social media, technology, and how lifestyle factors such as diet, fitness and connection play a role in wellbeing for young people today. This is an honest, practical and inspiring conversation with a leader who continues to shape how we talk about and support mental health in Australia. You can find out more about zero2hero: https://www.zero2hero.com.au/
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    43 min
  • Terry Barnes

    Terry Barnes
    Feb 4 2026
    For all Australian political followers, this episode of The Experts is for you. There is no doubt that the current political environment is reaching new depths of despair for the opposition and for those who consider themselves conservative voters. There is effectively no opposition; the Coalition has become a “no-alition,” and the rise of One Nation can only mean that the ALP government, led by Albanese, does not really have to do much at all. Nic Hayes speaks with one of Australia’s most astute political commentators, Terry Barnes from Cormorant Advisory, who previously held advisory roles to two Health Ministers under the John Howard government. Terry has never seen his beloved Liberal Party fall tocurrent depths. It appears to be a perfect storm of egos, economic pressures, and social conditions that is fuelling a very public rift in leadership and policy, one that seems to have no quick fix. The rise of One Nation is certainly a beneficiary of this chaos, and both Nic and Terry believe this surge is a bubble waiting to burst. If history is anything to go by, there will be a flaw in Hanson’s popularity, but until the Liberals and Nationals sort themselves out, this rise is likely to continue. At present, the only entity holding the current government to account is the media. Australian politics, and the future of our nation and democracy; requires a strong opposition. No one can put a finger on when that might happen, but it needs to happen soon.
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    44 min
  • Jordana Borensztjn

    Jordana Borensztjn
    Jan 6 2026
    We kick off The Experts podcast in 2026 with some energy to get you motivated and launch the year with a bit of vigour. Communications and body language expert Jordana Borensztajn is as fiery as her hair, with a wit to match and the attitude to back it up! Jordana has worn a lot of different hats and admits to making many mistakes, but she openly shares this so we can all learn from her journey. Her humour, her intelligence, and the fact that she’s always willing to give something a go is inspiring. She is a regular guest on overnight radio programs with uplifting segments to entertain the audiences. She is a rising star across other media platforms as well, and her use of social media is a benchmark for those looking to build an authoritative profile. Jordana has recently authored a book 'The Little Book of Influence - 8 Keys to Transformative Communication’ which I read on a flight from Adelaide to Brisbane and can highly recommend. It's not how to be an influencer 'Kim Kardashian' style but more how to bring presence into your communication. This book is full of practical and easy suggestions you can adopt to be a better communicator. Strap in and enjoy this episode with Jordana.
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    54 min
  • Phoebe Netto

    Phoebe Netto
    Dec 19 2025
    Phoebe Netto is the founder and Managing Director of Pure Public Relations. Listen on Soundcloud, Spotify of Apple Podcasts. All Australians are hurting after the tragedy in Bondi this week. We are feeling the pain and loss of innocence stolen by an act of terrorism on Sydney's iconic Bondi beach. I read a post this week that Phoebe had bravely shared, asking us all to be mindful of what you're posting, whether representing yourself, your business, or your brand. It's an important reminder that it's not always necessary to post on social media or take a public stance by throwing your opinion into the mix. We're all in shock that such hatred and violence have occurred on Australian soil, so let's pause, take time to listen and be considered in any response you might have the urge to share publicly. We don't need to point fingers at individuals or organisations, when as a result, it has the potential to do more harm than good. Phoebe shares her thoughts on the way our leaders responded, and how journalists have covered the events of Sunday 14th December 2026. Leaders must possess an empathetic and human response in a crisis such as this. We hope you'll put your arms around each other, stop the hate, be kind, be human.
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    32 min
  • Zain Peart

    Zain Peart
    Dec 16 2025
    The housing crisis and home affordability has been a hot topic in the media in 2025. There really doesn't seem to be a solution through government initiatives or legislation but one thing is for sure, we all need to be savvier in the way we approach borrowing and investments. Our guest this episode is finance educator Zain Peart. Education is everything and Zain believes that 'influencers' are the greatest threat to a successful relationship with money. Their unregulated advice and jargon is dangerous when consumers are considering their biggest financial transaction. "The media is not belting this up, we are living in a cost of living crisis" Zain Peart Zain has some very clear messages for the market. Simple adjustments in language of 'first homeowner' to ‘first property owner' grants can change the way we think about the great Australian dream of owning your own house. A small change in mindset is required to take the emotion out of purchasing a home or an investment. It makes a difference. Zain’s calm and considered approach is very reassuring and influential. His tips are critical for everyone looking to invest or buy a property. Understanding the market, budgeting and payment options are all elements of an educated purchaser. A great listen for those entering the property market, or just to hear Zain’s calm and credible way of contributing to media.
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    46 min
  • Kate Toon

    Kate Toon
    Dec 11 2025
    Kate Toon is an author, speaker, and a marketing/SEO expert who has a wonderful take on life. She loves to write books, so much so that she bought a bookstore! Kate has an amazing energy which I saw firsthand at a recent event put on by Jacqueline Brooker. She’s a natural communicator and a saleswoman at heart. Her take on selling doesn’t make sales feel dirty or difficult. Buyers are there because they want to buy, so it’s your job to give them a reason to buy, to trust you, and a pathway to make the transaction easy. It’s about creating a relationship which we’re all capable of, and most of us have been doing since the dawn of time. Kate shares some great advice and smart business tips, including inside information you need if you want to write, publish, and market a book. It’s valuable intel and her get-to-the-point approach is something many of us can improve on. Everyone needs a little bit of Kate Toon in their life. You’ll walk away from this episode with a clear action plan to make your business shine. It’s possible you’ll even pick up a pen and start writing your own book. Enjoy the podcast.
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    44 min
  • Dr Nicole Lee

    Dr Nicole Lee
    Dec 8 2025
    Dr Nicole Lee is internationally known for her work in alcohol and other drug treatment and research. She is well known for her expertise in Australia's methamphetamine crisis and in the treatment of alcohol and other drug problems. She is a consulting psychologist and a behaviour change expert. She has extensive experience in policy, practice and data trends in alcohol and other drugs. Nicole is the CEO of Hello Sunday Morning, an Australian not-for-profit organisation dedicated to helping people who want to change their relationship with alcohol. Hello Sunday Morning was founded in 2009 by a young man, Chris Raine, who took a year off alcohol and blogged about his experience. He would wake up hangover-free and each post was signed off "Hello Sunday Morning". Many Australian's have a problem with alcohol. Rum was the first alcohol currency in Australia during European settlement over 235 years ago, and it has been instilled in our culture and way of life for generations. Alcohol consumption ccauses so much harm in our community contributing to mental health problems, domestic violence, relationship breakdowns, road fatalities and injuries, amid many more. In recent times we've seen a rebellion to the 'Aussie drinking culture', particularly from young people and women. Hello Sunday Morning have been instrumental in providing information and education to those seeking an alcohol-free life, with extremely impressive outcomes. In this episode, Nicole tells us about the huge numbers flocking to change their behaviour with alcohol, the media's interest in this topic, and the support and assistance that Hello Sunday Morning can provide. Some very timely messages as we approach the 'silly season' for those who want to make an adjustment to their lives.
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    43 min