The Hair Therapist

What if the key to rebuilding a life isn’t just opportunity, but belief?   In this deeply moving episode, Mel speaks with John Godwin, Chairman of Inspiring Better Futures Foundation, whose work has helped hundreds rise from the shadows of long-term unemployment, trauma, and isolation. From mentoring youth in remote communities to launching transformative programs across Queensland, John’s st...

In this episode, Mel connects online with Gary Strachan, the dynamic founder of Deadly Hair Dude , for a conversation that cuts straight to the heart of community transformation. Despite the virtual setting, Gary’s passion for creating opportunity in remote Indigenous communities comes through loud and clear.   We explore how Deadly Hair Dude is redefining what a haircut can mean - from build...

What drives someone to rob a bank and what does it take to rebuild a life after that moment?   In this gripping episode, we sit down with Emily Cooper, a peer advocate and changemaker whose journey from heroin addiction and incarceration to frontline leadership in harm reduction is as raw as it is inspiring.   Emily opens up about the day she walked into a bank and committed a robbery, a...

In the heart of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, a quiet revolution is unfolding—one that challenges outdated laws, redefines what home means, and puts compassion at the centre of housing advocacy.   In this powerful episode, we sit down with Jacqueline, Angela, and Judy, three women at the forefront of the fight to protect small community living in Belli Park. What began as a generous act - Ja...

Step inside the world of circular innovation and purpose-driven impact in this special episode featuring Ewelina Soroko, co-founder of Sustainable Salons - a social enterprise transforming the way the feel-good industry thinks about waste. From humble beginnings on a road trip around Australia to building a movement that now diverts over 2 million kilograms of salon waste from landfill, Ewelina sh...

Today, we’re joined by Helen Andrew, a passionate advocate for housing reform and the founder of the Tiny Community Living Campaign. Based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Helen has been leading efforts to change local laws, ensuring that tiny homes can be a viable, permanent housing solution for those seeking affordability, sustainability, and security.   Her journey began with a simple ac...

Welcome to The Hair Therapist, where we explore stories of resilience, recovery, and transformation. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Cathy Kezelman AM, a medical practitioner, advocate, and President of the Blue Knot Foundation. Dr. Kezelman’s journey is one of courage—having lived through childhood trauma herself, she has dedicated her life to empowering survivors and driving sy...

What started as a chance encounter in Manila has grown into a global movement. Selina Tomasich, founder and CEO of Hair Aid Inc., was inspired to take action after meeting two nuns working with abandoned children in the Philippines. Their mission to reunite families and provide parents with sustainable skills resonated deeply with her. Initially, she organized sewing training, but when locals expr...

In this episode, we sit down with Clive Allwright, a visionary in the hairdressing industry whose career has taken him across the globe - from the bustling streets of London, to the dynamic energy of Hong Kong, and the creative pulse of Los Angeles. His journey has been one of artistry, innovation, and relentless ambition.   But behind the success was a battle with addiction - alcohol and coc...

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Lisa, who bravely shares her harrowing journey of survival. From experiencing sexual violence as a teenager to enduring domestic abuse as an adult, Lisa has faced unimaginable challenges. On top of it all, she was unjustly separated from her daughter - another devastating chapter in her fight for justice.   Despite the pain, Lisa chooses to spea...

In this episode, we sit down - virtually - on Zoom with Brianna Myors, Program Manager of Prevention and Education at Fvree, to discuss the vital work being done to combat domestic and family violence. Brianna shares insights into Fvree’s mission and the importance of prevention in breaking the cycle of abuse.   We also explore the HaiR-3Rs program, which equips hairdressers and beauty profes...

Marco Renai, founder of Men of Business Academy, shares his journey in youth empowerment and crime prevention. What started as a simple fitness program for at-risk boys has become a transformative educational institution, providing an alternative to traditional schooling through small class sizes, hands-on learning, and workforce readiness programs. Built on respect, mentorship, and unconditional...

Join us as Zach opens up about the profound importance of supporting our community and offering hope to those who long to feel seen, heard, and cared for. Through his inspiring life journey, Zach sheds light on the complexities people face every day, bringing awareness to struggles often left in the shadows. This feel-good episode celebrates Zach's incredible experiences, his dedication to giving...

In this episode, we welcome Dean Cooper, the Products and Programs Lead at White Ribbon Australia, to discuss his impactful work in the fight against men's violence towards women. White Ribbon is a movement dedicated to creating a nation where every woman can live free from fear and abuse, and Dean plays a pivotal role in driving programs that educate, empower, and inspire change.   Dean shar...

In this episode, we sit down with the inspiring Lindsay Brown to delve into her incredible work with Dig In, a Brisbane-based charity dedicated to providing wholesome, home-cooked meals to the homeless and disadvantaged. Co-founded by Curtis Sciacca and a passionate team of like-minded individuals, Dig In has grown into a beacon of hope for the community, serving thousands of meals since its incep...

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, we sit down with child protection advocate and former detective Kristi McVee. With years of experience investigating abuse cases, Kristi shares invaluable insights into the realities of child safety, the importance of awareness, and actionable steps to create safer environments for children. From addressing hidden dangers to empowering communities, this co...

In this heartfelt episode, Elliott, a transgender boy, and his mother, Angela, share their powerful journey of love, resilience, and advocacy. Despite Queensland’s decision to halt access to hormone therapies for new transgender patients under 18, Elliott is able to continue his transition, offering a glimpse of hope amid a challenging time. Angela reflects on her unwavering support and the bitter...

In this episode, we are joined by Genevive Chadwick from CPR Hair to discuss their inspiring partnership with HaiR-3Rs, a program of FVREE, a leading specialist family violence service in Victoria. Genevive shares how CPR Hair is empowering salon professionals to recognise, respond, and refer clients experiencing domestic and family violence, turning salons into safe spaces for those in need. &nbs...

On this special episode, we welcome Behavioural Scientist Dave Kramer, a passionate advocate for creating safe, equitable, and inclusive communities. After the tragic loss of his best friend, Hannah Clarke, and her three children in 2020, Dave dedicated his life to turning grief into transformative action, becoming a driving force behind the work of Small Steps 4 Hannah.   Dave sheds light on...

In this powerful and moving episode, we sit down with Michael, whose life story is a testament to the complexities of human experience. From enduring harrowing trauma in his childhood at the hands of the church to navigating a life marked by incarceration, systemic targeting by law enforcement, and his own struggles with crime, Michael opens up about the raw realities he's faced.   But this i...

In this fascinating episode, we sit down with Dr. Alistair McTaggart to delve into the world of Psilocybin mushrooms aka magic mushrooms.   Dr. McTaggart shares his insights on the biodiversity, biology, and potential therapeutic applications of these unique fungi. Join us as we explore the hidden wonders of Australia's psychedelic mushrooms and their impact on science, culture and potentiall...

Today, we have the honour of speaking with Karyn Walsh, the CEO of Micah Projects. Karyn is a trailblazer in the field of social justice, with over 40 years of experience advocating for the most vulnerable members of our society.   As a founding member of Micah Projects, Karyn has dedicated her career to addressing issues such as homelessness, domestic violence, and mental health. Her tireles...

In this heartfelt episode, we dive deep into the journey of Maggie, who tragically lost her big brother, Josh, to suicide when she was only 15 years old. Maggie shares her personal story of grief, healing, and her mission to raise awareness about suicide.   Emphasising the importance of open communication, Maggie shares how talking about her brother's suicide has been a crucial part of her he...

Welcome to an interview with "Be Crowned," where empowerment meets transformation! Join us as we dive into inspiring stories and insightful conversations with Kelly Hocking and Paula Hibbard, the dynamic duo behind Be Crowned. With over three decades of experience as passionate Australian hairdressers, Kelly and Paula have dedicated their careers to empowering clients with beautiful, feel-good hai...

Carolyn Robinson is the Founder and Director of Beyond DV, an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic and family violence and preventing such violence through education and community engagement.   Carolyn's journey began in 2017 when her younger daughter experienced domestic violence. This deeply personal experience led Carolyn to leverage her 30 years of experience as an e...