Power Of Women podcast

Hana Assafiri OAM is not here to inspire you. More importantly, she is here to confront what society still refuses to face.

In this powerful rerun of the Power Of Women Podcast, Hana speaks with unflinching honesty about freedom, violence, and the systems that continue to fail women. From growing up between Lebanon and Australia, to being forced into an arranged marriage at just 15, Hana shares how survival alone was never the goal. Dignity, agency, and purpose were.

She reflects on the quiet acts of kindness that altered the trajectory of her life...

In this powerful rerun of one of our most resonant conversations of 2025, Maz O’Connor joins Di Gillett to talk about what it really takes to change your life after 50.

Maz didn’t just imagine reinvention - she lived it. Selling everything and relocating to Bali,,,and then India, she has carved a new chapter fuelled by purpose, courage and deep clarity. From redefining retirement to creating financial independence, Maz shares the mindset shifts and personal stories that are helping women everywhere embrace their “third act.”

If you’re navigating a life pivot, feeling stuck, or...

What if the real crisis in midlife isn’t aging, but disconnecting from the parts of yourself that make life worth living?

In this electrifying conversation, Pleasure Coach and founder of The Feminine Rebellion, Natty Frasca, reveals why so many high-achieving women feel numb, overwhelmed, or unseen… even when life “looks successful” on the outside.

We dive into the neuroscience of pleasure, the myths that keep women small, and the truth about why midlife is actually the perfect moment to reclaim your identity, your joy, and your unapologetic confidence.

If you’re t...

This was such an import episode from earlier in the year, we were compelled to replay it for you.

Women’s healthcare is broken and Hema Prakash is rebuilding it from the ground up.

In this powerful conversation, Hema shares how decades in tech and private equity, a global upbringing, and her own perimenopause journey shaped the creation of Ponti Health - an integrated clinic reimagining women’s health through slow medicine, time-rich consultations, and a fiercely woman-centred model of care.

Hema challenges the medicalisation of menopause, exposes gaps in the Aust...

This episode is so powerful we are rerunning it to kick off your New Year’s resolution.

Your midlife reset: Strength, vitality & how to be powerful at ANY age.

This episode of the Power Of Women Podcast with Alison Cork MBE is a masterclass in midlife transformation and the evidence is irrefutable: it is never too late.

Alison is a London-based entrepreneur, author, broadcaster, and fierce advocate for women in business. She’s also rewriting the script on aging with her book Fit & Fabulous Over 50, a practical blueprint for reclaiming your stre...

Former international publicist Carlii Lyon spent years building other people’s brands, from supermodel Miranda Kerr to global icons, before realising she had become invisible herself.

In this Power Of Women Podcast episode, Carlii joins Di Gillett to discuss her book Courage to Be – Small Steps for a Big Life and the deeper psychology behind visibility, why we hold ourselves back, how to build a purpose-driven personal brand, and why visibility isn’t vanity, it’s vitality.

We explore:

®   The three universal thoughts that hold people back from visibility

®   Future Self Psycho...

Former Bevilles Jewellers CEO turned transformational coach Michelle Stanton shares how aligning mindset, vision, and values can spark the quantum leap you’ve been waiting for. From saving her family’s 80-year-old business to founding Complete Success, Michelle’s story is a masterclass in courage, clarity, and creating change that lasts.

We explore:

®  How to design a vision that feels both daring and doable

®  The difference between goals and visions, and why both matter

®  How fear becomes the “border guard” between the familiar and the new

®  What happens when external s...

From ICU nurse in regional NSW to CEO leading one of Australia’s most complex healthcare infrastructure projects, Di Mantell has built a career defined by courage, clarity and reinvention.

In this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Di Mantell joins host Di Gillett to explore why courage matters more than confidence and how purpose, perseverance and partnerships have shaped her leadership philosophy.

She shares the pivotal moments that taught her to say yes before she felt ready, the story behind delivering the world’s largest healthcare sustainability loan, and what visibility and ageism real...

In this fast-paced and deeply honest conversation, Di Gillett sits down with Mandi Gunsberger, five-time founder and visionary dealmaker behind Babyology and Nourish Travel. Together they explore what it really costs to build something extraordinary: the burnout, the identity traps, the pressure of keeping it all together and the courage it takes to stop, reset, and start again.

From founding a multi-million-dollar business to selling it and rediscovering herself through a year in Tuscany, Mandi shares powerful lessons on entrepreneurship, wellbeing, and the importance of connection over hustle. A masterclass in business growth, resilience, and the...

What happens when the drive that makes you great becomes the force that brings you undone?

Life coach, bestselling author and keynote speaker Shannah Kennedy joins me, Di Gillett on the Power Of Women Podcast to explore the thin line between ambition and burnout, and why recovery, identity and self-awareness are now critical skills for high-performing women.

From managing elite athletes to living at full throttle, Shannah’s story is a reminder that setbacks can be the start of your greatest comeback. If you’re willing to do the inner work.

In this...

Power Of Women Podcast with George Donikian: a rare, deeply personal conversation about love, reinvention and the power of partnership. Theirs.

For the first time, Di Gillett swaps chairs with her husband, renowned broadcaster and Executive Producer George Donikian, for a candid exchange about the art of storytelling, the courage to reinvent, and what it takes to stay visible in a changing media landscape. From SBS World News to Network Ten, George has shaped Australian media for more than four decades. A multicultural pioneer, mentor and trusted voice. But this time, the spotlight turns on their shared...

Lyndall Mitchell, founder of Aurora Spa, has pioneered Australia’s wellness movement for nearly three decades. In this episode, she shares her journey from a 14-year-old at Camp Eden to building an award-winning wellness ecosystem.

We explore why small, consistent actions matter more than big gestures, how to prevent burnout, and why giving yourself “permission to pause” is essential for leadership, longevity, and balance. Lyndall opens up about challenges of being a female entrepreneur, the evolution of spa culture in Australia, + her mission to integrate wellness into everyday life + even healthcare systems.

This conver...

In this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Di Gillett is joined by Cassandra Hili, Founder & Director of Curated Agency, an award-winning PR and communications firm built on storytelling, strategy and authenticity. Cassandra shares how she turned a teenage health blog into a PR platform by harnessing the power of community and vulnerability. Together, they explore what it really means to build a personal brand that endures, the truth about earned vs paid media, and how founders can maintain visibility without selling out their story.

New podcast episodes drop every Monday to power your w...

In this podcast exclusive on Power Of Women Podcast, Jo Tarnawsky breaks her silence about the cost of speaking out against toxic workplaces. From her career as Chief of Staff to the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia to rebuilding her life after a public fallout, Jo shares her extraordinary story of courage, integrity + resilience.

We explore

®  How Jo’s diplomatic career and cancer battle shaped her strength

®  The day her life changed with one unexpected phone call

®  What really happens when the system fails to protect its own

®  How to find th...

Lana Samuels represents the future of leadership: fearless, curious, + unafraid to step into spaces still dominated by men. In this conversation, we explore her journey from graduate to global thinker, the role of social media in building her influence, + how she balances authenticity with professionalism while inspiring others online.

You’ll hear:

-       How Lana built her leadership career + carved out opportunities in male-dominated industries.

-       The pivotal role of social media in amplifying her profile + shaping her success.

-       Whether glass ceilings still exist for the next generation of women leaders.

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is more than a buzzword. It’s the quiet force that shapes leadership, culture, and connection. In this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Di Gillett is joined by Amy Jacobson, emotional intelligence and human behaviour specialist, keynote speaker, and author of The Emotional Intelligence Advantage. Together they explore how EQ is built, why empathy matters, the dangers of toxic positivity, and how women can embrace emotional intelligence to lead authentically.

You’ll hear:

- Why empathy is powerful, but also exhausting — and how to avoid becoming a pushover.

- Ho...

In this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Di Gillett is joined by Azra Alagic founder of BiohackHer. Together, they explore how small daily choices can radically change the way women age, shifting the focus from simply living longer to truly living well longer. From cutting sugar and resetting circadian rhythms to mindful breathwork and the power of morning sunlight, Azra shares her personal health journey and the five everyday biohacks that feel like superpowers. This conversation challenges outdated views of aging, reframes retirement as a mindset trap, and offers practical, science-backed tools that any woman can adopt...

What if midlife wasn’t the crisis we’ve been taught to dread, but the revolution we’ve been waiting for?

In this powerful conversation, Natty Frasca—pleasure coach, rebel rouser, and founder of The Feminine Rebellion, shares why women so often “check all the boxes” of success yet still feel numb, burned out, or disconnected. We explore the neuroscience of pleasure, the myths around aging, and why reclaiming your power in midlife means owning your presence, your joy, and your unapologetic truth. This episode is for every woman ready to stop apologising for wanting more, to rediscover p...

In this very first solo episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, I open up about a deeply personal chapter of my life: The sudden onset of Alopecia Totalis in 1999 and how it reshaped not only my appearance, but also my resilience, my career and my sense of identity. It left me bald as a badger, when over a few short months, all my hair fell out.

What began as a devastating loss became one of the most defining periods of growth in my life. From enduring clinical and brutal medical treatments to finding unexpected acts of...

Hana Assafiri OAM is a true champion of women and a visionary driving societal change. She speaks candidly about growing up between Lebanon and Australia, her arranged marriage at 15, and the systemic failures women face when seeking freedom from violence. She shares how acts of kindness from strangers shaped her path, how she transformed personal trauma into purpose, and why she founded the iconic Moroccan Soup Bar, a sanctuary where food, community, and women’s empowerment intersect.

We explore:

- Life and freedom beyond survival

- Acts of kindness that change the tr...

In this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Di Gillett joins Maz O’Connor to talk about midlife reinvention, women’s empowerment, and financial independence after 50. From selling everything and moving to Bali, to backing herself in business and redefining retirement, Maz shares her unfiltered story of courage, conviction, and personal growth. If you’re a woman navigating midlife change, looking to prioritise wellness, independence and purpose, this conversation will show you how reinvention really begins.

We explore:

- Why midlife reinvention is about conviction, not crisis

- Courage as the qui...

Lele’s story is one of survival, identity, and fierce determination.

This conversation is a testament to resilience, motherhood and the power of music.

We explore how music has Lele’s weapon of resistance and a vessel for preserving her culture.

In this moving episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Di reveals the story behind Lele’s story From her family’s escape from West Papua to becoming Australia’s first prominent West Papuan artist to perform at major events, she shares the realities of living in exile, the deep cultu...

What happens when you grow up as a third culture kid, speak four languages, and dare to question a system built without you in mind?

In this compelling episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Professor Nada Hamad—renowned haematologist, professor, and fierce advocate—sits down with Di to talk about identity, inclusion, and the urgent need for change in the systems that shape our lives. Nada brings the full force of her experience—as a clinician, a mother of three daughters, and a woman who’s lived across cultures—to unpack the blind spots in our instit...

This week marks a first for the Power Of Women Podcast — our very first male guest, Wade Kingsley.

Wade’s spent his career helping people unlock bold ideas and back themselves — especially women.

In this epsiode we delve into the intersection of creativity, ageism, and gender dynamics — and explore how men and women can work and thrive better together. Wade doesn’t just talk about empowering women — he’s actively doing it & his insights are a timely reminder that the Power Of Women is stronger when supported by the right allies.

We also ex...

Whether you're a woman with a big idea, or in a moment of doubt, this episode is a masterclass in purpose-driven entrepreneurship. At 22, Stephanie Woollard followed a woman into a tin shed in Kathmandu — and walked out with a purpose that would change thousands of lives. With just $200 and an unwavering belief in dignity over charity, she founded Seven Women, a social enterprise that empowered marginalised women through skills training and employment. Now, 17 years on and an Order of Australia Medal recipient, Stephanie has handed back that thriving organisation to the Nepali community — and turned her attention to a new...

Di Gillett sits down with psychologists—Dr. Jessie Stern and Rachel Samson, authors of ‘Beyond Difficult’—to explore the emotional terrain of difficult relationships and just how to survive the difficult people in your life. Let’s face it – we all have at least one – or maybe it’s you who’s the problem!

Together, they unpack what really makes someone “difficult” (spoiler: it’s not a diagnosis), and how attachment theory, temperament, and communication styles shape our experience of others—at home, at work, and in ourselves.

KEY TOPICS:

Understanding difficult relationships

Aged care is one of the most confronting—and inevitable—journeys we’ll face which is why we opted to talk about this on the @Power Of Women Podcast. Kathy Kirby and Kate Lamont, aged care advocates and co-founders of Thrive Aged Care, walk us through the landscape of aged care in Australia. Whether you're planning for yourself, supporting a parent, or navigating care for a partner, the truth is most of us are uninformed and unprepared when the moment arrives. And whilst it is not always the case, more often than not, the care planning and care giving, falls...

In this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, host Di Gillett sits down with Michelle Phillips, CEO of YWCA Australia, to talk about one of the most urgent issues facing Australian women today: homelessness and the fight for safe, secure housing. From launching the Women’s A-League to leading global reproductive health services, Michelle’s career has been grounded in fairness, equity, and bold leadership. Now, she’s on the frontlines of Australia’s housing crisis, reshaping how we think about women’s homelessness and why “a roof over your head” is only part of the story.

KEY...

In this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Jenny Valentish reveals what it really takes to navigate an extrovert’s world when you’re wired for solitude - & we explore how to navigate your career as an introvert.

A self-described “reformed sociophobe,” Jenny shares the surprising ways she rebuilt her confidence—from fighting in a boxing ring to walking a bodybuilding stage in heels. Drawing on her new book, The Introvert’s Guide to Leaving the House, she unpacks the internal tug-of-war so many women feel around being visible, speaking up, and dealing with conflict.

Wit...

Hema Prakash is a rebel with a cause. She built her career in male-dominated boardrooms. Now she’s disrupting another broken system: women’s healthcare. In this powerful episode, Hema shares how her rebellious streak, global upbringing, and experience in tech and private equity converged to ignite Ponti Health—a ground-breaking, one-stop clinic for women’s health care that refuses to medicalise menopause or diminish a woman’s agency.

Hema challenges the idea that menopause is a “condition” to be treated. For her, it’s a transition—normal, natural, and deserving of slow, respectful, evidence-based care. She opens up about her...

If you think financial planning is boring, intimidating, or only for men in suits—think again.

In this episode of the Power of Women Podcast, financial educator and bestselling author Mel Browne joins Di Gillett to break down smart, accessible wealth-building strategies every woman should be using—especially in midlife.

You’ll learn:

In this episode of the podcast, we are revealing the silent self-doubt that holds so many brilliant women back: imposter syndrome.

Whether it shows up as over-preparing, holding back in meetings, or downplaying success, imposter feelings can quietly sabotage confidence and performance — especially in the workplace.Together with imposter syndrome expert and author of Conquer Your Imposter, Alison Shamir, we unpack where this internal narrative comes from, how it disproportionately affects women, and — most importantly — what to do about it.

KEY TOPICS:

We celebrate the power of women—but what happens when that power is weaponised? In this searing conversation, Di Gillett sits down with organisational psychologist, coach, and author Vanessa Vershaw to confront a rarely discussed truth: women bullying women in the workplace. Vanessa’s revealing & possibly controversial book – ‘The Sisterhood Paradox’ unpacks the psychological, cultural, and systemic forces behind this behaviour—and the devastating cost. An uncomfortable workplace issue that Vanessa Vershaw lays bare – and importantly, tables actionable solutions for both individuals and organisations to create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

KEY TOPICS:

·     Why som...

In this episode of the Power of Women Podcast, Di Gillett welcomes back Dr. Marina Christov, Chinese Medicine practitioner and founder of The House of Life, for a deep dive into the invisible forces behind fatigue, burnout, and depletion. If you're feeling energetically drained, constantly tired, or struggling to find balance—this is the conversation your body has been waiting for.

KEY TOPICS:

·     The root cause of persistent tiredness

·     Morning and evening rituals to recharge your energy

·     Why seasonal living matters more than we think

·     The connection between digestion and fatig...

What if we’ve been looking at middle management all wrong?

In this powerful conversation, Di Gillett is joined by Rebecca Houghton—author, speaker, and founder of BoldHR—to explore why middle managers are under more pressure than ever, and what needs to change. From the rise of AI and workplace restructuring to leadership burnout and the future of visibility for women in the middle, this episode reframes the role of those holding the heart of organisations together. Rebecca shares her game-changing concept of the B-Suite—a new way to define and develop high-impact leaders operating from the cent...

What if architecture wasn’t just about buildings—but about rebuilding lives?

In this episode of the Power of Women Podcast, Di Gillett speaks with Professor Esther Charlesworth AM, a humanitarian architect, academic, and changemaker whose work sits at the powerful intersection of design, ethics, and social justice. From war-torn cities like Mostar and Beirut to domestic violence shelters in Melbourne, Esther’s global career challenges everything we think we know about architecture. She shares the founding story of Architects Without Frontiers, a not-for-profit delivering civil infrastructure projects for the world’s most vulnerable communities, and opens up about...

What if the root of your exhaustion isn’t just in your schedule—but in your organs?

Di Gillett sits down with renowned Chinese Medicine practitioner Dr. Marina Christov, founder of The House of Life on the Power Of Women Podcast, to challenge the notion of why so many women are energetically depleted —and what your liver, kidneys, and nervous system are trying to tell you. With over 25 years of experience, Marina brings a rare blend of clinical wisdom, emotional insight, and unapologetic truth-telling to this deeply personal conversation.

Marina also shares her own story of rej...

In this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, host Di Gillett speaks with Megan Draper, Founder and CEO of Furniture Reuse Solutions (FRS) — a 100% female-owned environmental company that has quietly redefined what it means to lead with purpose. Megan was raised to believe that women were meant to be subservient to men — homemakers in the background, while men took the lead as breadwinners. A chance encounter at a gas station led her into the world of recycling and environmental logistics. Today, she leads a company that has redirected more than £60 million worth of surplus furniture to over 200 nonprofits and h...

The relationship between the food we eat, and our feelings can be fraught. Breaking free from emotional eating is rarely a linear journey.

What we eat isn’t just about hunger—it’s about how we feel. In this episode, Di Gillett sits down with powerhouse Terry Tateossian, who shares her inspiring transformation: shedding over 80 pounds during perimenopause and stepping into her power as a fitness coach for women over 40. They dive deep into emotional eating, the hidden impact of sugar, and the mindset shift needed for real, lasting change. Terry opens up about her cultural roots, person...

Judy King is the first octogenarian guest on the Power Of Women Podcast — and she is nothing short of extraordinary. Now living her best life in Mallorca, Judy’s story is a powerful journey of success, repressed memories and healing. Our conversation is a true emotional rollercoaster. We celebrate Judy’s remarkable achievements, including her domination of the Paddington real estate market in the 1960s — a feat few women could dream of at the time. But behind the success, Judy battled hidden demons: repressed childhood memories that left her overwhelmed by a persistent, haunting sense of failure. In recent years, t...

The world of publishing is evolving, and today’s authors must do more than just write—they need to promote themselves through podcasts, social media, literary festivals, and every opportunity that comes their way. As publishing veteran and owner of Ginninderra Press, Debbie Lee understands this shift firsthand. Bequeathed the company by its founder, Stephen Matthews, she carries the deep responsibility of honouring his legacy while navigating the industry’s modern challenges.

In this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Debbie and Di dive into the multifaceted world of publishing. From the crucial role of professional editin...

Could the push to keep working from home be the sleeper issue that sways the next federal election? In this bonus episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, Di sits down with Jo Scard — Founder & CEO of Fifty Acres, one of Australia's leading impact communications and engagement agencies. With deep expertise in political strategy and public perception, Jo unpacks how working from home and the fight to protect flexibility at work could become one of the most politically charged issues of our time.

Are flexible work arrangements just a workplace trend — or a defining electoral issue?

 <...

Want to be fit & fabulous at any age? This episode of the Power Of Women Podcast with Alison Cork MBE clearly highlights it is irrefutable – you can be. Full of powerful insights on how women—especially those in mid-life—can transform their approach to life, health, and well-being. If you’re struggling with weight, looking for a fitness and nutrition overhaul, or simply ready to redefine your next chapter, this episode is for you! Alison is a London-based entrepreneur, author, broadcaster, and passionate advocate for women in business. She’s the founder of Make It Your Business and National Women’s En...

In this episode of the Power of Women podcast, Karen Faehndrich’s laser focus on leadership & capability requires courage and adaptive thinking. She opens up about the power of self-advocacy, the importance of building strategic relationships, and the unique hurdles women often face in leadership. Karen dives into the critical role of listening and understanding workplace dynamics, sharing personal insights on overcoming anxiety and boosting confidence in both academic and professional settings.

Karen and Di Gillett explore the nuances of leadership; focus on emotional intelligence; the value of trust; the pitfalls of artificial harmony in teams, th...

Di talks with Rachel Neylan, former professional road cyclist, Olympian, and all-around powerhouse about the power of choices not sacrifices. From a young girl watching the Olympics on TV to standing on the podium as a World Championship silver medallist, Rachel’s perseverance is nothing short of inspiring. 

We dive into:

✨ The calculated risks and choices [note she doesn’t call these sacrifices] Rachel took to achieve success in professional cycling

✨ How resilience and work ethic shaped her career and personal growth

✨ The importance of identity and purpose beyond athletics

✨ Powerfu...

Michelle Huntington is a force to be reckoned with. On this episode of the Power Of Women podcast, Michelle shares her amazing journey from a childhood dream of flying to becoming an Airline Captain in a male-dominated industry, where there are only 500 female airline captains globally. She shares her remarkable determination in turning her dream of flying into reality, the importance of representation for women in aviation, and how her experiences shaped her identity. Listen to how she flew a 4-seater, single engine plane, solo from the USA to Australia in five days!

Michelle emphasises the...

In this episode of the Power of Women Podcast, we sit down with Sophie Doyle, founder of The Fable, to explore her entrepreneurial journey. Sophie says she recognised early on that she corporate life and company politics wasn’t for her, tapping into a desire to be her own boss and the low-risk approach to starting her own business. With no job or set plan, but hungry for an adventure she went and lived in an Indian yoga ashram in the Himalayas. From Ashram to Jaipur, Rajasthan, a series of chance encounters lead her to a textile factory.

...

An enlightening episode of the Power of Women podcast as Annalise Jennings shares her journey of resilience, connection, and empowerment. From her multicultural upbringing in Australia, to breaking the patriarchal mindsets in the corporate banking sector and her transformative experiences working with remote communities. Annalise emphasises the importance of belonging and caring for the whole. She talks about the principles that guide her work and her life, the challenges women face, and the power of storytelling in creating positive change. Annalise's insights will inspire you to embrace your own story and hopefully take action towards a more connected and...

The Power Of Women podcast with Di Gillett & Talitha Cummins, a former broadcast journalist turned entrepreneur. Talitha shares her journey from a successful media career to a complete career-change, disrupting the jewellery market with her own business specialising in lab-grown diamonds. She opens up about her struggles with alcoholism and the importance of recovery as she made the journey to sobriety. The conversation also touches on women's health issues, which again finds us talking about menopause, and the need for greater awareness and support. Talitha emphasises the empowerment that comes with overcoming personal challenges, the importance of pursuing one's...

You want brutal honesty? Well here it is. Jane Evans says she has always been radical and these days she is not afraid to point out the bleeding obvious, not that she ever was. The issue being, midlife women, women of a certain age, simply fade from sight. For many, they become invisible.

Jane Evans is an executive creative director and activist who has lived & worked in the advertising sector in Australia. Now back in the UK, Jane is the Co-Founder of Visible Inc., and on this episode of the Power Of Women Podcast, she shares...

Are you struggling with relationship anxiety? That persistent, pervasive doubt, fear or worry about your significant other. In this conversation, on the Power Of Women Podcast, Georgie Collinson, a leading anxiety therapist, discusses the complexities of high functioning anxiety, its triggers, and the journey of self-discovery and healing. She emphasises the importance of understanding anxiety as a signal for personal growth and the connection between anxiety and fear.

Georgie addresses the intricacies of relationship anxiety and highlights the significance of self-awareness and understanding societal influences on our perceptions of relationships. She highlights the need for open communication...

Some people just seem to pack more into their lives than the average, and Lindy Joubert is one of those people. Lindy joins Di on the Power Of Women podcast, and with a healthy dose of humility, shares her rich life journey.

Lindy Joubert engaged in UNESCO Observatory capacity building projects using the arts, crafts, architecture in the Cook Islands; Papua New Guinea; Kenya, Africa; Finnish Lapland; Timor Leste and Indigenous Australia. She has had over 40 national and international exhibitions of paintings, six in New York City. She is Editor-in-Chief of the UNESCO Observatory bi-annual peer...

Karen Eck is passionate about supporting women to be seen & heard.

In this episode, Karen Eck, a PR expert and strategic advisor, discusses the importance of visibility for women in business. She emphasises that visibility should be a priority on the agenda of organisations, enabling individuals to step up and share their expertise. Karen shares her journey in PR, the significance of coaching for visibility, and the need for a culture that supports women's representation in media, sport & the workplace.

Karen and Di explore practical strategies for building a personal visibility platform and...

Sheridan Rose Shaw values authenticity and courage in her life.

In this powerful conversation, Sheridan shares her journey from childhood trauma and addiction to becoming a successful business owner in the hairdressing industry. She discusses the challenges of homelessness, the importance of community support, and the transformative power of recovery.

Sheridan emphasises the need for courage and vulnerability in asking for help, and how her past experiences shape her approach to business and life today. Her story is one of resilience, empowerment, and authenticity, inspiring others to embrace their own journeys.

  Duration: 00:33:59

Last week’s episode with Kerry Henwood was dynamic, so when Kerry suggested she could return for a second week to continue our discussion, of course I jumped at the opportunity. And that is a great segway, as opportunity is one of the key themes that repeatedly came to the fore as we reviewed what is in store for this new year, the Year of the Wood Snake.

Kerry Henwood, an intuitive healer, speaker, and teacher. Drawing on her global network, including her Tibetan Lama friends, Kerry explains the significance of the Lunar New Year. The en...

2025 will be a year of transformation, renewal and greater awareness.

Di is joined by internationally recognised intuitive healer, inspirational speaker and teacher, Kerry Henwood. Having consulted her global network, Kerry outlines the significance of the Lunar New Year. The transformative energy of 2025 will be characterised by collaboration, leadership and the rise of empathy in technology.

Together they explore the importance of mentorship, the role of elders, and the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing world. The conversation emphasises the collective consciousness and the potential for positive change and growth as we navigate...

London-based, Geeta Sidhu-Robb shares her inspiring journey from being a single parent to becoming a powerful advocate for women's empowerment. She discusses the challenges she faced during her divorce, the impact of societal expectations on women, her experiences in politics and how she redefined success to focus on the impact rather than income. Geeta emphasises the importance of self-identity and building a personal brand, as well as embracing individuality as one ages. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of women supporting each other.

Di Gillett and Geeta Sidhu-Robb explore the themes of...

The final episode for the Power Of Women Podcast Summer Series, before we commence an exciting new year with amazing guests and great content … we can’t wait to share with you.

Today’s episode is a compile from some of the fabulous women who joined me on the podcast in 2024, with guests from Australia, the UK and Saudi Arabia. Listen to some of what Colleen Callander | Dr. Desley Lodwick | Libbi Gorr | Gill Moakes | Derv McGowan | Casandra Heilbronn | Penny Locaso had to say on the Power Of Women Podcast.

Acknowledging our inner-critic, defying...

What an amazing first year for the Power Of Women Podcast, and here is just a taste of the dynamic women we interviewed.

This episode is a compile from this year’s podcasts with five extraordinary females from Australia & the UK. Elle Roseby | Sarah Curran | Derv McGowan | Emma Laing | Gill Moakes.

Elle shared the impact of the right mentors, Sarah touches on the gender bias women face when seeking start-up funding, Derv tells us PhD’s are about persistence rather than smarts & Gill says starting any business is hard.

KEY T...

That’s a wrap for Year 1 of the Power Of Women Podcast and it has a privilege to engage with the most inspirational women here in Australia and around the world, to share their stories … with you.

This episode is a compile from this year’s podcasts with four extraordinary females, here in Australia and in the UK. An award-winning retail entrepreneur, a mindfulness champion, a comedian & media personality and a global executive now running a boutique Pilates studio in Kent in the UK: Sarah Curran | Tracy Bartram | Megan Flamer | Shirley Wardle.

We cover...

That’s a wrap for Year 1 of the Power Of Women Podcast and it has a privilege to engage with the most inspirational women here in Australia and around the world, to share their stories … with you.

This episode is a compile from this year’s podcasts with four extraordinary females, all here in Australia, albeit their reputations have global reach: Tracy Bartram | Brigitte Duclos | Kerry Henwood | Dr Desley Lodwick.

We touch on: The need for resilience; acknowledge shit happens; recognise vulnerability isn’t weakness; agree sex with the boss is off the table; a...

Are you or do you identify as an expert?

In her recent research, Penny Locaso was curious about women, who were clearly experts in their field, struggling to identify as such. So, as a Behavioural Scientist, Penny went to the evidence to understand; What is it that makes someone an expert, and why are so few women prepared to identify as one?

What she found, was this misnomer in society – that experts were born. How can that be? Expertise is not something we are born with. This was the basis for Penny’s recently rele...

Naomi Lisner knows only too well, the hidden costs, emotional fallout, and personal challenges faced as a woman dealing with ageism and a grey divorce. And when the two intersect, the way forward is not easy.

Having fronted up to casting directors as an actor and being rejected more times than being offered the role, it doesn’t prepare you for the confidence hit when trying to get a job in your 50’s, following a divorce. Your superannuation is non-existent, on paper your career history is scrappy and your financial security is on a knifes-edge.

Family secrets & silence and carrying intergenerational pain, shaped Michelle Scheibner’s life choices and personal identity. She said, in reality she was sad from the day she was born … but she didn’t know why.

An incredible story which is now told through her memoir, “Hush”, which unravels the unintended legacy of family secrets. The podcast reveals a woman whose professional life was based on helping others to identify and promote their own identities, all the while, not realising she didn’t know her own.

On this episode of the Power Of Women podcast, Mic...

Burnout management strategies: Check-in with yourself, monitor your wellbeing with stress-tech and build in micro-breaks throughout your day.

This week on the Power Of Women podcast, a candid and revealing conversation with Amanda Balcombe about the crushing weight of burnout after work demands left her emotionally and physically drained. How the impacts of ‘hitting the wall’ saw her walk away from a career that no longer served her well-being. Amanda didn’t just stop at healing herself; she turned her experience into her own consulting practice, guiding other professionals in finding balance and fulfillment, helping them to avo...

Could it be that my thinking is causing these results, rather than it being my actions that are resulting in the outcome? There’s food for thought. Change and transformation start with you and your mindset.

This week on the Power Of Women podcast, Di explores this possibility with Michelle Stanton, Founder and CEO of Complete Success. Michelle is the former CEO of her family’s 80-year-old business Bevilles Jewellers. Stepping in the position of Bevilles’ CEO at the height of the Global Financial Crisis was the perfect storm. Plagued with feelings of self-doubt and fear, and th...

Are you working all hours? Do you prioritise everybody else ahead of yourself? Listen up – this episode is full of fantastic advice for the self-confessed martyrs, the A-Types, the ambitious, the parents, the multi-taskers amongst us.

So, let’s talk about a life in balance. What do we mean by that? Just part of the rich conversation on this episode of the Power Of Women podcast when Di connects with former retail CEO and founder of Mentor Me Women, Colleen Callander.

They discuss the willingness to try, to learn and build skills, confidence and...

Textile waste is a global issue and Australia is now #1 per capita for textiles consumption, surpassing even the US. What does this mean for the environment and the future of fashion?

In today’s episode of the Power Of Women podcast, Di sits down with Tonia Bastyan, a fashion industry veteran and pioneer in sustainable design. Tonia’s impressive career has seen her serve as the Creative Director and Founder of fashion brands in both Australia and the UK. Now, she’s pivoted her focus to tackle one of the industry’s biggest challenges: textile waste.

We’re diving into something so many of us have faced at some point in our lives: Burnout. It can creep in and take a serious toll on our health and well-being as well as impact those around us. In this episode of the Power Of Women podcast, I engage in a candid discussion with Shirley Wardle, an Australian-born, UK-based female executive who has navigated a remarkable career across multiple industries—including telecommunications, media & broadcast, and cybersecurity. Despite her impressive achievements, the relentless pace and high-stakes demands of corporate life took their toll, leading her to the brink of burn...

Possibly the youngest Family Office CEO in the world … & female. On this episode of the Power Of Women podcast, Cassandra Heilbronn joins Di from Saudi Arabia to share how she went from Bundaberg in Queensland to an expat woman in Riyadh, and smashed the glass-ceiling. Quite the journey when compared to moving to Brisbane with only $400 in her bank account to start her Law Degree. Her first board appointment was at 31, she has been the recipient of a number of awards & accolades including the Top 20 under 40 in 2017 in Australia, and from a distinguished career as a lawyer in Australia an...

This week on the Power Of Women podcast, Di sits down with fashion designer, Nikki Atkinson, who is on the path to taking her Australian Merino wool wedding dresses to the global bridal market. A country girl at heart and living regionally on a merino-wool growing property in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges, Nikki is championing our golden fleece as not only a luxury alternative for bridal couture, but also as a sustainable alternative. Merino wool is a renewable and biodegradable material. Listen to Nikki’s journey as a business woman, a farmer’s wife, weekend sporting coach and mum. T...

I don’t think anyone could be more radically authentic than Gill Moakes. On this episode of the Power Of Women podcast, Di gets into the weeds with the award winning business coach, writer, speaker and the host of the Heads Together podcast. Having both made a commitment to no more sugar, they explore the importance of prioritising ourselves, the concept of rewilding and the benefits of cutting away what no longer serves us. Gill works with freedom-seeking, risk-taking women to help them grow phenomenal businesses. She believes that when you’re brave enough to do things your way and...

This week on the Power Of Women podcast, Di spends time with Angela Rakis in Washington DC. cAs a child, she would spend time in her grand-parents iconic store, the Acropolis Food Market, providores of Greek and Mediterranean foods and condiments. We discuss how these influences along with the exemplary role modelling from her mother, who now in her 80’s is still a working & exhibiting artist, have played a key role in Angela’s life choices, the roles she pursued and ultimately her own business, Favorite Daughter LLC. We also discuss the Great Resignation post the COVID 19 pandemic, the rise...

She is a passionate advocate for sustainability, women’s empowerment and first nations voices. This week on the Power Of Women podcast, Di is joined in the studio by one of Australia’s most highly regarded retail leaders, Elle Roseby. Elle has led some of Australia’s most recognisable fashion brands including Sportsgirl, Country Road and Trenery. Together they discuss the importance of health and well-being as women over 50 and the fabulous mentors who have supported Elle throughout her career. Elle emphasises the importance of leading with empathy and generosity. An outstanding retailer with a focus on fostering collaboration, drivin...

Why what we eat matters when it comes to hormonal health. This week on the Power Of Women podcast Di is joined by Nutritionist Zoe Bingley-Pullin to discuss her latest book, “Eat You Way To Healthy Hormones”, an ideal guide to becoming the champion of your own health. We dive deep into the relationship between how we feel and what we should eat to better manage perimenopause and menopause, which then sets the foundations for aging well for women over 40, 50 & 60. Zoe is another inspiring female entrepreneur and a passionate advocate for women’s health & wellbeing.

For more i...

Today on the Power Of Women podcast, Di spends time with Olympian, Margot Foster to discuss the correlation between being an elite athlete and a leader in business. The podcast explores the intersection of mental toughness required as a business leader, by comparison to the mental fortitude it takes to perform at the highest level in sport. It is a fascinating and rich topic. Both domains demand a high level of resilience, focus, and perseverance. They also agree the future looks bright given the extraordinary performances at the recent Paris Olympic & Paralympic Games and the level of support shown...

This week on the Power Of Women podcast, Di sits down with the incredible woman at the helm of Anther Distillery, Dervilla McGowan. Dervilla left bartending to become a Scientist and like most scientists, she enjoys mucking about with things to see how they work. After working in bars in Australia and London, completing a PhD in Microbiology, becoming a Mum and working as a Microbiologist in the innovation of rapid composting of food waste, she stepped into the world of entrepreneurship. Dervilla left research to make gin, exploring the science of flavour and running Anther Gin in a...

On this episode of the Power Of Women podcast Di is enlightened by Melina Cordero who shares her concept around a better way to work. Melina powered up the corporate ladder, a female in a male dominated industry. However, as she moved closer to the upper echelons of management, she realised something just didn’t feel right. She had experienced significant success at a young age, yet with each step forward Melina felt this disconnect, as if she was failing. Breaking away to launch her own business in 2021, she has developed a new digital platform designed to drive inclusion, in...

On this episode of the Power Of Women podcast I am joined from Adelaide River by the founder and CEO of Circulanation, Tanya Egerton. Tanya has just returned after 4 months out bush in the Roper River region, about 300km SE of Katherine in Arnhem Land. Arnhem Land is the nearly 100,000 square kilometres of Aboriginal-owned land in Australia, where Tanya has been working with one of the remote communities on the development she spearheaded, the Remote Opshop Project. Tanya shares her unique insights having worked with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across remote Australia for the past decade...

This week on the Power Of Women podcast, Di connects with Julie Otter, co-Founder of Otter Craft Distilling (OCD) to discuss how she and the business survived the pandemic. Having launched OCD only five months before COVID hit, they were left out in the cold when it came to Government support. Timing is everything and things aren’t always fair and it also appears, are not always equal in business. Julie shares candidly how tough it was and how to stay strong when it feels like the ground is shifting under your feet. She also shares insights around when yo...

If you were to ask yourself or friends in your inner circle, do you have visibility to the household finances, what would their answer be? On this episode of the Power Of Women podcast Di gets enlightened by wealth coach, Julia Scott, and if your answer to the aforementioned question is “No”, then you need to listen too. Julia was an Accountant and wealth management expert who trusted her husband to manage their family finances. Just as many of us do, right? Well as it turned out, she was wrong. It wasn’t until her marriage broke down that she di...

This week on the Power Of Women podcast, Di sits down with self-proclaimed laughaholic, Tracy Bartram. A candid discussion that isn’t always so funny. Tracy shares insights into her childhood and how that shaped her, the rampant sexism she endured as she built her career in radio, television, comedy & music, and the pain & dysfunction she managed despite being in the public eye. Tracy is an open-book and a fabulous example of the commitment it takes to battle one’s demons and the rewards you can reap from putting in the hard yards. It’s a brave narrative about addict...

This week on the Power Of Women podcast Di spends time with a true powerhouse, Beverley Honig. What is impressive is that Beverley didn’t hesitate to make herself available which is amazing given the many hats she wears; professor of practice, CEO, thought leader, global innovator and renowned entrepreneur. A thought-provoking discussion that shines a light on Beverley’s own narrative: as well as explores her advocacy of ‘women at the table’; a fresh perspective on the ‘glass-ceiling’; explores ‘imposter syndrome’ v. self-fulfilling prophecy; and the distinction between diversity and inclusion. When it comes to inclusion, it is very clear, we h...

Today on the Power Of Women podcast Di sits down with Megan Flamer, entrepreneur and mindfulness, compassion and resilience trainer….& instantly you feel calmer in her presence. Megan’s warm, engaging style will captivate you as we discuss behaviours that emerge in high-pressure environments, whether we can thrive when constantly under the pump and tools we can use to cope when under pressure. How to check-in with ourselves: Examine your body; How do you feel; Where do you feel it? How to stimulate the Vagus Nerve. How we build the muscles for self-awareness. A fabulous workout for your wellbeing.

Joining Di is Karen List, Transformational Coach for Women. Karen is a previous guest on the Power Of Women podcast and today, she joins Di to expand upon their discussion around change & transition.

CHANGE is what happens to us – we have no control over change.

TRANSITION is what we do have control over…. as we choose to manage the change.

Or to put it bluntly, Change is when shit happens. Transition is what you do next.

We discuss:

This week on the Power Of Women podcast, Di connects with emerging abstract artist, Anna Lohe. Anna is an Australian artist based in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Australia who is successfully transitioning from a corporate career to the art world. When the realisation hit that the corporate vibe & motherhood didn’t align, she took a moment to reflect and reset. Out of that reflection and a series of subsequent light-bulb moments, Anna Lohe Art was born. Within a mere eighteen months, Anna's works are already adorning walls in private collections in London, Barcelona, New York and in the Ma...

A deep dive into the complexities, chaos and change we face in our personal and professional lives and the importance of trust, respect and self-confidence.

In this episode, Di talks with the inimitable thought leader, Dr Desley Lodwick. The phrase that defines Desley and she lives by is, her best is yet to come. A powerful phrase, and as we age an unbelievably uplifting take on life.

We discuss the reality that we are dealing with complexity much of the time within organisations at lower & lower levels, and interestingly, Desley has found people don’t...

In this episode, Di plays musical chairs with Emma Laing, Director and Founder of the leadership consulting firm, Emmanate.

Emma was Di’s guest in Ep. 8 of the Power Of Women podcast and she negotiated up front that should would like to interview Di. In so doing, Emma draws on her deep expertise in leadership consulting, executive coaching and ongoing study in the fields of motivation, high performance, psychology and neuroscience to peel away the layers to reveal Di’s narrative.

Emma has a way of identifying the things that shape us.

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Today on the Power Of Women podcast, Di sits down with Beverley Pinder OAM. Beverley has a unique story of resilience, success, love and the importance of always giving back – ingredients of her own Power. Beverley has captured her story in her inspirational autobiography, “Pride without Prejudice”, and shares that with Di on this episode of the podcast.

Beverley’s professional, civic and personal journeys have been anything but smooth. Yet conquering the odds is part of her DNA and her drive and passion permeates throughout our conversation. Beverley’s life’s work has been underpinned by her stron...

Today on the Power Of Women podcast, Di spends time with the dynamic fashionista, Phoebes Garland. Personal experience is a powerful catalyst for involvement.

This power-house is a passionate supporter of not-for-profits. She is an ambassador for not for profit charities, Adopt Change and Shake it up Australia Foundation, two causes that have impacted her personally Phoebes was adopted from Vietnam in 1975 as part of Operation Babylift, the name given to the mass evacuation of children from South Vietnam to western countries, including Australia at the end of the Vietnam War. Forever grateful to the life...

On this episode of the Power Of Women podcast, joining Di to tackle the 4-letter word, FEAR, is Julie Demsey. Julie is a trailblazer in rapid results coaching and hypnotherapy, with a 20-year track record of leadership in Silicon Valley and a dynamic presence in the international start-up scene.

FEAR: Fear can be debilitating; Fear can hold us back: Fear can be limiting.

In our professional lives, fear can sneak up on us, cause us to over-compensate and negatively impact our behaviour.

Today on the Power Of Women podcast, Di spends time with Julia Darlington, London-based leadership coach focussed on inspiring people, particularly women, to confidently lead themselves & others.

This episode will resonate with many women over 50 who were or are in the workplace.

We discuss:

Welcome to Episode 8 of the Power Of Women podcast. Today’s guest is Emma Laing. Emma is the Director and Founder of the leadership consulting firm, Emmanate.

Many of the experiences in life that challenges us, actually become the foundation of shaping who we are.

It speaks to adversity.

It speaks to resilience.

Emma is an accomplished Speaker, Executive Coach and Leadership Consultant and has also engaged in ongoing study in the fields of motivation, high performance, psychology and neuroscience.

Her personal story is a unique one th...

On this episode of the Power Of Women podcast, Di is enlightened by internationally recognized intuitive healer, inspirational speaker and teacher – Kerry Henwood.

The power of the mind is remarkable. It is vast & multi-faceted, including but not limited to:

Kerry’s story is one that the Power Of Women podcast applauds. It is a story of adversity, adventure and triumph. She has studied extensively with numerous Shamans and Yogis around the worl...

Welcome to a Bonus Episode of the Power Of Women podcast. Additional content to inspire, motivate & fuel your week.

Today’s guest is renown property styling specialist, Kim Hallis.

Kim is also Di’s former business partner & they muse over the frustrations of their failed venture, a bespoke offline introduction agency. The business model thrives around the world as genuine alternative to the online dating scene, but it appears Australian males differ in their views.

Kim also opens up around the challenges of dating as a female over 50. Online dating succ...

This week on the Power Of Women podcast, Di connects with serial entrepreneur, Sarah Curran in London, who was awarded an MBE for services to fashion and retail in the UK. In 2023, this entrepreneurial powerhouse turned her focus onto how to change the narrative and understanding around the menopause, launching her latest online venture, justhotter.com, with her business partner. Sarah suggests the menopause can be like a slippery fish. She will tell you though, the road taken for female entrepreneurs can be laden with bumps and potholes.

Listen as Sarah shares her roadmap to navigate...

Welcome to Episode 5 of the Power Of Women podcast. Today’s guest is internationally best-selling author, Anna Downes to discuss her latest book, a captivating thriller, Red River Road.

Anna is an inspirational guest who shares her upbringing in the UK, emersed in the world of theatre, drama and the captivation of the stage and the power of words.

Red River Road, Anna’s 3rd book, is a gripping psychological outback noir and much more. It is a book for the times, as it delves into themes that are front and centre right now:

Welcome to Episode 4 of the Power Of Women podcast. Today’s guest is the multi award winning Radio and TV Broadcaster, Libbi Gorr.

Together, Libbi & Di cover staying relevant in a competitive media landscape, embracing new challenges as they come your way and their contemporary views on our 3rd Act. It’s not about what we do in retirement, it’s about embracing another chapter as we all live longer, richer (& we don’t mean in the monetary sense!) lives.

Libbi shares one of her powerful childhood learnings: “That you should be able to talk to...

Welcome to Episode 3 of the Power Of Women podcast. Today’s guest is Kerstin Pilz, author of the recently released book, Loving My Lying, Dying, Cheating Husband.

The recently released book, Loving My Lying, Dying, Cheating Husband is a debut memoir and life-affirming tale of a woman’s search for better ways to love, grieve & forgive.

Kerstin shares her realisations as a result of this jarring & confronting life-experience. How she found the act of forgiveness to be empowering and how she stepped into her power at the age of 60.

Kerstin also...

Welcome to Episode 2 of the Power Of Women podcast. Today’s guest is Karen List, Transformational Coach for Women.

The episode is all about change: Change of career; change of lifestyle & change of what is import in life.

Karen is passionate about helping women step into their potential, with a focus on awakening the feminine power within us.Together, Karen & Di explore how one taps into their inner power through intuition and how there are moments where we may feel overwhelmed as we transition through life. Karen also shares her insights and her ow...