On Courage

In this episode, Eira Joy reflects on a lifelong love of performance that masks a fragile, introverted side and deep‑seated insecurities about image and self‑worth. From childhood critiques to the paradox of thriving in the spotlight while fearing visibility, she explores how creativity demands vulnerability and authentic presence—beyond looks and beyond applause.   ... Subscribe: oncouragepodcast...

After a two-year pause, Eira Joy returns to the podcast reflecting on what success and courage really mean. She confronts the cycle of fading passion, the pressure of external validation and the hidden fears beneath the dreams and desires we pursue. With candid honesty and examination, this episode ultimately encourages that success is the act of creating itself and embracing fear is the key to re...

In this insightful episode, we’re joined by Ruth Song, a career coach and communications educator who shares her journey of self-discovery and courage beginning from a childhood of keeping her voice hidden. Recounting her personal adversities, Ruth explains how she approached these challenges with self-compassion and resilience, reminding us that even the toughest times can be transformative. To o...

In this episode, we chat with Stu Buckland about his career journey and experiences in podcast production and the broader media industry. From his childhood days improvising songs and recording radio shows on cassette tape to navigating the challenges of working in the corporate sector, Stu offers great insight into an array of topics such as job loss, the shifting employment landscape and the imp...

In this thought-provoking episode, we engage in fruitful conversation with media presenter and producer Jon Hoevenaars. Not only do we explore Jon's unique career in broadcast television and podcasting but we also delve into the pivotal role his Christian faith has played in the shaping of his journey and outlook on life. Considering the pressures of a public-facing career, Jon candidly shares per...

Join Eira Joy in this captivating conversation with talented filmmaker, writer and editor, Michael Dimarco, as he unveils the layers of persistence and passion that have shaped his creative journey.  Sharing his childhood experiences and the hurdles he overcame, Michael offers a candid exploration of how adversity can fuel creativity. From nurturing his love for writing to forging a career in film...

In this episode, Eira Joy reflects on her creative process, beginning with her early teenage years when she first discovered the power of songwriting. At just 15, she picked up the guitar and quickly found comfort in expressing herself through writing lyrical poetry and composing melodies. Despite the typical challenges of adolescence, Eira Joy fondly recalls these years as the ‘good old days,’ ch...

In this episode, Eira Joy engages in compelling conversation with versatile actor Stephanie Lillis, delving deep into the theme of courage that has shaped her wonderful career in the performing arts. Stephanie shares her journey from a young age, when she discovered her passion for acting, to becoming a successful actor and drama teacher. Through her work in the theatre and across the screen, we e...

In this episode, Eira Joy shares a glimpse of her ambition as an artist and performer, as she reflects on her experience auditioning for reality TV singing competition, Australian Idol.  She examines her true passion for music whilst candidly exploring the confusion and disillusionment that follows rejection, challenging the notion of fame as the ultimate measure of success. Eira Joy touches on th...

In this episode we dive deep into the unique journey of professional film and television actor Ferdinand Hoang.  Born and raised in war-torn Vietnam, Ferdinand shares his wonderful story of resilience, survival, opportunity and achievement.  From humble beginnings, Ferdinand's quest for survival instilled in him a sense of determination and grit that would shape his future as an established and su...

Reflecting on the oft-heard maxim, "Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear," Eira Joy delves into the complexities of this emotion and its profound impact on our lives. From reminiscing her youthful audacity to confronting the daunting realities of adulthood, Eira Joy navigates the twists and turns of her own fears with vulnerability and insight. She highlights the universal na...

In this episode, we have an insightful conversation with Christie Flora, who shares her unique career journey from a traditional 9 to 5 job in government to pursuing her talents and passion for helping people eliminate overwhelm to find balance and fulfilment in their lives. Through personal experiences, Christie demonstrates the courage in trying new things, in learning from what doesn't work and...

Our philosophy is one that views courage as synonymous with creativity. In this episode, Eira Joy reflects on her early experiences with the arts and the impact they had on her life. Her love for music and movies was instilled in her from a young age, where she was nurtured to pursue her creative dreams by her parents, teachers and community.  Eira Joy believes that this nurturing should extend in...

In this episode, we sit down with talented actor, artist and entrepreneur Sophie Brabenec, to explore the transformative power of creativity in building courage and overcoming fear. Sophie shares her incredible experiences pursuing an acting career, providing great insight into how she developed her artistry, practical skills and an entrepreneurial spirit along the way. A passionate actor and perf...

In this episode, host Eira Joy reflects on the beginning of a deeply personal journey of self-worth and discovery.  From a cherished childhood memory to a pivotal career crisis in 2016, Eira Joy delves into the challenges of working within the creative industry and the struggle to rebuild confidence following major setbacks. This episode explores the idea of surface-level confidence driven by exte...

In this first interview episode, we learn about one of the creatives behind this podcast – our resident editor and producer, Ezra May Aringay. A musician and YouTube creator, Ezra May opens up about navigating her numerous passions to find stability in the workforce, shedding light on the challenges many young people face in defining and building their careers. Ezra May provides wonderful insight...

It won't come as a surprise that On Courage is a podcast about courage – a seemingly simple concept, but one that is rich, layered and pertinent to us all; no matter our backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Yet do we understand what courage truly is and why it holds great importance? How have we been conditioned to visualise courage? How do we emanate it, maximise it, pass it on? Eira Joy Ar...