Conversations IN Noosa

Today, we're taking a deep dive into the future of motoring with our guest, Brett Mills, dealer principal for Ken Mills Toyota. As we navigate the uncharted road of electric vehicles and sustainable technology, Brett's insights shed light on the journey ahead, reminding us that the journey is just as important as the destination.  In this episode, we'll explore Brett's experience with Toyota's first fully electric vehicle, the bZ4x, and discuss the broader landscape of motoring. From the everyday practicalities of owning an EV to the future possibilities of hydrogen fuel cell technology, this is an interesting insight into Toyota's commitment to innovation and sustainability.

In this episode, we're featuring Pat Ryan, the man behind Ryan Designer Homes and we'll follow his journey from apprentice to operating his own thriving business. Pat's journey is a testament to the power of a dream and his unique approach to building balances his vision with the needs and wants of his clients, ensuring every home is a unique reflection of personal style and preferences. Pat's story is a reminder that with passion, dedication, and a clear vision, it's possible to build not just homes, but dreams. Join us as we uncover the story of a bloke who still gets a 'buzz' when he delivers the keys to excited new homeowners.

Pip Covell is the dynamic and charismatic leader of Sunshine Beach Real Estate! Pip's infectious energy and passion for her work have made her a household name in the local industry. With a career spanning over three decades, she has built a reputation for sound business practice, effective communication, and a deep connection with the community. From classic cars to music and dance, Pip's creative side shines through in everything she does. In this episode, we delve into Pip's inspiring story, from teaching music to the real estate industry. We explore her unique approach to leadership, her commitment to her team, and her dedication to the Sunshine Beach community. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind Pip's success and learn how she continues to thrive in a competitive industry.

Join me as I sit down with Rio Capurso from Locale, one of Noosa's most beloved restaurants. From Puglia, Italy to the picturesque Greek Islands and the bustling streets of London, Rio's journey is a great tale. In this episode, we'll delve into how one of Noosa's most successful restaurant ticks and what makes Locale a household name in Noosa's dining scene. We'll talk about the skills required to succeed in the fast-paced hospitality industry, and how family and heritage have, and are shaping Rio's approach to food and community.

Join us as we delve into the remarkable story of Bella Venezia, a Sunshine Coast institution that has transformed during its almost forty-year history into the gastronomic haven it is today. We'll sit down with co-owner Todd Young to uncover the secrets behind its enduring success and adaptability in the ever-changing hospitality landscape.

Ever wondered how someone from a laid-back place like the Sunshine Coast ends up working on some of the biggest reality TV shows? Shows like Survivor and The Apprentice? Today, we meet Dan Munday and he'll talk us through his incredible career path, taking us from regional Queensland to the San Fernando Valley in California. But Dan isn't just reminiscing – he's using his experience to give back to the Sunshine Coast. We'll also hear about the Sunny Coast Showdown, a film festival spearheaded by Dan and another Sunshine Coast legend, Powderfinger drummer Jon Coghill.

Today we're joined by two distinguished guests, Travis Shultz, and Jane Ferrari. Travis, a respected local lawyer with a deep-seated passion for fine wines, began his journey in the world of wine as a writer many years ago. Jane, on the other hand, is a celebrated figure in the winemaking industry, with a wealth of knowledge and experience. This episode of our podcast was recorded in the “green room” ahead of the 2024 Winemaker's Masterclass at the Maroochy RSL, an event that combines the love of wine with a noble cause. The event is more than just a masterclass, it's a fundraiser for SunnyKids, a charity that's making a real difference on the Sunshine Coast. This year's event raised over $187,000!

Welcome to a special episode of our podcast, Everyone Has a Story, today featuring Hedley Thomas, multi-Walkley Award winner, investigative journalist, and creator of the most listened-to crime podcast in the world, The Teacher's Pet. This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at Park & Cove Restaurant at Pepper's Noosa Resort & Villas. You may be surprised to hear in the episode that Hedley crafted and wrote some of the episodes while staying at Pepper's. Let's go behind the scenes of The Teacher's Pet podcast and discover extra details that were never in the original podcast but now feature in Hedley's new book of the same name.

Today we're excited to be joined by Tom Harvey, co-founder of TH7 BodyLabs. Now, Tom isn't just another entrepreneur – he's on a mission to revolutionise human performance and well-being through a unique set of protocols and that's exactly what we're going to dig into today. Curious about how to unlock next-level health benefits, from sleep so deep you wake up feeling reborn to accelerated injury recovery and even the potential to extend your health span? Then strap yourselves in, because Tom's about to break down the science behind TH7 BodyLabs' methods and how they can transform your life. Let's jump right in!

In a world obsessed with electric vehicles, one car maker is taking a different road. Toyota, the brand synonymous with reliability, is sceptical towards EVs. But is their caution justified? Join us on this episode of our podcast as we speak with Brett Mills from Ken Mills Toyota, a long-time dealer principal, we'll dive deep into the iconic brand's future.  We'll explore Toyota's multi-pronged approach to clean cars, from hybrids to hydrogen, and discover why they believe it's the key to winning the race for sustainable transportation.  Is electric the only path, or is there a more diverse future for motor vehicles? Buckle up for a fascinating conversation about trust, tradition, and the road ahead.

Do you crave authentic Mexican flavours with a fresh, local twist?  In this episode, we journey from the Sapphire Coast to the Sunshine Coast with restauranteur Jason Jones. We'll explore his passion for Mexican cuisine, ignited by a childhood spent foraging and experimenting in the kitchen. Jason will share the story behind Mamasita, one of Melbourne's most beloved Mexican destinations.  We'll also discover how his adventures abroad, from Europe to Singapore, influenced the creation of his current project, Bandita. Located riverside in Noosa, Bandita offers a unique take on Mexican food. Think fresh, local seafood cooked over fire, alongside classic favourites like tacos and guacamole. But Bandita is more than just a restaurant. It's an experience.  Jason believes in fostering a community around food and creating memorable moments for his guests. Join us as we delve into Jason's culinary philosophy, the inspiration behind Bandita, and the magic of dining riverside with a million-dollar sunset.

Today, we're diving into the life of Alexander Payne, a man who has always had a love for Noosa. Originally from Victoria, he was a frequent visitor to Noosa, sometimes visiting twice a year for holidays. His deep affection for the area led him to move here for the first time in the 1980s. Now, Alexander lives in Sunshine Beach with his husband, Adrian, and Alexander works as a real estate agent with Reed & Co. He specialises in properties in Sunshine Beach, an area he fondly describes as a place where you'll come across "Beetles and Bentleys". Join us as we explore Alexander's journey, his love for Noosa, and his insights into the unique charm of Sunshine Beach.

Welcome to our latest podcast episode, where we delve into the world of community banking with our guest, Kerryn Vincart, Branch Manager of Bendigo Bank at Tewantin Noosa. Kerryn brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in fostering a community-focused banking approach that genuinely helps locals.  In this episode, we explore the importance of financial education and the need for all of us to develop financial literacy. Kerryn shares her insights on the future of physical bank branches and whether they will continue to exist in the coming years. It's an engaging discussion on the evolving landscape of banking and finance.

Welcome to Everyone Has a Story, where we dive into the lives of extraordinary individuals who are shaping our world in remarkable ways. Today, we're thrilled to have with us Amanda Yeates, the CEO of SunCentral, the company behind the transformative development of the new Maroochydore CBD on the Sunshine Coast. In a world driven by technology and innovation, it's easy to overlook the power of infrastructure development. But as Amanda reminds us, building infrastructure isn't just about creating roads and bridges; it's about shaping the very fabric of our communities. Growing up, Amanda was inspired by her father's dedication to infrastructure projects. She witnessed firsthand the impact his work had on people's lives, and it was this realisation that ignited a passion to pursue a career in infrastructure development. Today, Amanda stands at the helm of SunCentral, leading a team of passionate individuals who are redefining the concept of a city centre. The new Maroochydore CBD is more than just a collection of buildings; it's a vision for a sustainable, connected, and vibrant community. In this episode, we'll delve into Amanda's journey, exploring the challenges and triumphs of building a CBD from scratch. We'll also discuss the importance of community building, the role of green credentials in urban development, and Amanda's vision for the future of Maroochydore.

In this episode of Everyone Has a Story, we meet Andrew Wilcox from restaurant Park & Cove at Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas. He's an individual who has always been driven to succeed. Growing up on the Sunshine Coast in Tewantin, Andy always had a thirst for life and a desire to make his mark on the world. He demonstrated a strong work ethic and a passion for cooking, traits that have led him to a successful career in hospitality.  Andy's love of food and his dedication to his craft have made him a well-respected figure in the industry. He's a big sports fan, he loves Formula One motor racing and the NBA. He's particularly fond of former Chicago Bulls coach Phil Jackson, whom he admires for his mentorship, leadership, and motivational skills. Andy's story is one of determination, hard work, and success. He is an inspiration to us all to follow our dreams and never give up on ourselves. In this episode, we will hear about Andy's life, his career, and his passions. We will also learn about the challenges he has faced and how he has overcome them. Andy's story is a reminder that anything is possible if we set our minds to it.

Diamonds form, over time, under extreme temperature and pressure. Today you'll meet a woman, who just like the formation of a precious gem, has built a successful business and brand following several obstacles. Life has tossed Sandra Greenberger a few curveballs. Low self-esteem growing up, a broken marriage that left her with two small children, and then the loss of her driver's licence and subsequently her full-time job. Sandra will tell you that there were occasions when she was “curled up in a ball on the floor” however the result culminated in the purchase of her own business, Leskes Jewellers, even though she had no experience at all at ever running one.

How to Find Your Passion and Turn It into a Business - Q&A with Sally Oulton Do you feel stuck in a job that doesn't fulfill you? Do you dream of doing something more exciting and meaningful with your life? If so, you're not alone. Many people struggle to find their true passion and purpose in life.  But what if I told you that you can discover your passion and turn it into a profitable business? That's exactly what today's guest, Sally Oulton, did. She went from not knowing what to do with her life to becoming a successful entrepreneur who travels the world doing what she loves. In this episode, Sally shares her amazing story of working on a vessel during an underwater archaeological site, escaping pirates in the Red Sea, to building her business, Coastal Vintage.   You'll also learn:  How to overcome fear and self-doubt when pursuing your passion. How to find your niche and differentiate yourself from the competition. How to balance work and life as a busy entrepreneur And much more!   This episode is an inspiring insight that will help you find a passion and turn it into a business. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Sally's experience and wisdom. Tune in now and get ready to be inspired!

Imagine how challenging running multiple business interests can be. Today's guest is a woman of many talents and passions. She's always been fascinated by different industries and opportunities and has pursued her goals with courage and creativity. From organising dream weddings to running successful gymnasiums and fitness centres in Australia and the Cayman Islands to launching a chain of popular art and wine studios. My guest is a female entrepreneur who has learned valuable lessons along the way. It's been a journey of discovery, challenge, and growth. A journey that still has some way to go.

Are older women being seen? More importantly, are they being heard? Millennials buried deep in a social media landscape seldom recognise what baby boomers have to offer. Today's guest speaks about her purpose of being seen and heard as a septuagenarian. And Kerala, India with its cultural diversity, rich history, and varied landscape that includes the Arabian Sea coast, seems worlds away from Dalby, the often-hot rural Queensland town where my guest grew up. Why does she go there every two years? Find out in this episode.

The Comiskey Group is a family-owned hospitality, entertainment, and construction company founded by Paul Comiskey more than 50 years ago. Rob is one of two brothers who run the business with his dad and the group recently opened the doors on The Doonan, a site they purchased 15 years ago. I was interested in learning why and how some people see opportunity in a venture when others don't. The Comiskey Group has done that with several projects and as you'll hear in this episode, sometimes without a “plan B”.

Coffee has a rich history, complex chemistry, and a variety of effects on the human body and mind. For many, it's more than just a drink; it's a ritual, a social lubricant, a source of energy, and pleasure. I recently sat down with two locals responsible for the smoothest double espresso I've ever tasted. Ben & Kate Saultry from Bunker Specialty Coffee Co.

There are many tools, strategies, events, and support available for business owners these days. Coaches, consultants, boot camps, and business breakfasts. In this episode, you'll meet a business owner who's fined tuned the art of conversation, connection, and community and packaged it up into a brand new podcast that's paying dividends.

My guest on today's episode of our podcast always dreamt of creating a place where it felt like the people dining were at his home sharing a meal. Somewhere warm, relaxed, and familiar. The idea for Herbert sprang from a collaboration with Alex McKechnie, an earlier podcast guest, and the end result is described as a creative yin to an excel yang. The explanation for that lies ahead in the episode you're about to hear.

There's something very special about All' Antica.  The space is warm and cozy and the tables have those traditional red and white tablecloths and the Chianti on the menu pairs perfectly with the Italian fare. I can't help but hear the Billy Joel classic in my head, Scenes from an Italian Restaurant, and the words linger long after the meal has ended. The restaurant itself has been operating for more than three decades. Everyone Has a Story and today I'd like you to meet Helen and Shane McNally

Harry grew up in a large immigrant family in the rough and tough western suburbs of Melbourne and his first jobs in kitchens were an escape, of sorts, from the tight reins his dad held over the seven kids. He's prepared food for Formula One driver Michael Schumacher and he recalls the early days of Cecconi's in Melbourne's Crown Casino when the pollies would be seated on one side of the restaurant and the local mafia on the other. Everyone has a Story and today I'd like you to meet Harry Lilai (executive chef Bocca Italian)

Nilla is the driving force behind the Vanilla Food brand. There's a café, retail, and a cookbook. The Vanilla Food cookbook is on sale in the IN Noosa Magazine shop on our IN Noosa website and on vanillafood.com.au In this episode, you'll hear the story of a rebellious teen from Denmark who dreamt of traveling and ended up a successful businesswoman on the other side of the world in a country she now calls home.

Today's guest had a great childhood. He traveled around Australia with his parents on a bus being home-schooled. This ignited his adventurer's spirit that led him to London with plans to then make it to New York City. His passion for and interest in botany has set him off on a fascinating journey of discovery that has dovetailed into his career in hospitality as co-owner of Herbert in Noosa Junction.

Today's guest has worked as part of the production team for some of the world's biggest films and television shows. From Harry Potter to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory starring Johnny Depp, to The Last Samurai with Tom Cruise. These days he's helping people from his Doonan home with skills honed while on set as a makeup artist. Everyone has a story and today I'd like you to meet Michael Krehl from Scalp Micropigmentation Noosa.

Abalone has been a much sort after product in Asian countries, however with fewer exports heading to China there's now a push by the New South Wales Abalone Association to get abalone on menus here in Australia and to raise awareness for the product amongst Aussie consumers. Greg Finn and Greg Ryzy are both part of the association and I spoke to them on the afternoon ahead of a sold-out abalone experience at Peter Kuruvita's Noosa restaurant, Alba by Kuruvita.

Today's guest never thought she'd be working with people involved in domestic violence cases. Her interest in sociological issues started at a young age and driving social change has been a powerful motivator. Kathleen Hope is the General Manager of Sunny Kids, Sunshine Coast.

Today's guest has dedicated herself to her career in ophthalmology with study and work in places like London, Singapore, Melbourne, and Sydney. Her father's influence in terms of the way he helped and supported his children early on with their careers has had a big influence on my guest today, and in turn, there's an element of giving back to the community and giving back to students who are just starting out.

You can't help but get swept up in my next guest's enthusiasm when she talks to you. She's a podcaster, coach, and author of the book Radical Self Belief. She's spent a lot of her time helping women and now she's turning her attention towards helping blokes. This episode is full of cracking one-liners that you're sure to remember and repeat to others.

Today's guest is the founder of OneWorld, a home furnishings business with seven retail outlets and an online store as well. It's a great entrepreneurial tale of a South African businessman who turned his rejected job applications into fuel to start his own company.

There's always been a sense of myth and mystery around baseball. MLB teams like the New York Yankees, The White Sox, and the LA Dodgers are globally recognised brands, and while the game may not be considered a tier-one game in Australia, a local club, Sunshine Coast Baseball has given my son Max a sense of purpose, passion and skill level that I'll always be grateful for. It might just do the same for your kids.

My guest on today's episode is a cardiologist who's studied and worked all over the world, from the UK to Italy, Germany, and the United States. With the recent deaths of prominent Australians, Shane Warne, and Senator Kimberley Kitching, cricketer Ryan Campbell is luckily recovering following his cardiac arrest; pre-emptive measures around heart disease and heart attacks have been a trending topic. Professor Christian Hamilton-Craig believes that there's a simple, accurate test that could save many more lives.

My next guest is the CEO and artistic director of Anywhere Festival which has been running for twelve years now. The performance locations are as diverse as the artists involved, laneways, swimming pools, backyards and even an old ambulance station in Nambour will host performers during Anywhere Festival which starts on April 29.

My guest on today's episode of Everyone Has a Story is following in his father's footsteps and carving out a career behind the wheel of a racing car.

In today's episode, we'll meet the founder and managing director of Respond Global where a team of superheroes operates out of an unassuming office in Noosaville.This conversation was recorded before the Russian invasion of Ukraine and before the flooding that occurred along the Australian East coast. Because of those two big headline events, COVID-related news hasn't been as prominent as it was when this episode was recorded however according to medical and scientific experts, new variants will inevitably develop, and we'll continue to learn how to manage and live with that.

Today's guest has travelled and worked for some of the best and biggest hospitality brands around. His passion for food was sparked early on when his family moved to Hong Kong and Singapore because of his father's work.Following stints in Melbourne and making a name for himself at Ricky's in Noosa my next guest has branched out into the ready-made meals business with a new brand, Noosa Cartel.

My guest on today's episode of Everyone Has a Story is the event organiser for this year's Noosa Festival of Surfing, March 5 to 13, 2022. The legendary Phil Jarratt was one of my first guests on this podcast, you can check out all of our episodes for free by simply searching for Everyone Has a Story on your favourite podcast platform. Phil is still involved with the event, and we talk about that and all of the other attractions and special guests that'll be part of year's Noosa Festival of Surfing.Everyone Has a Story and today I'd like you to meet Josh Allen.

My next guest is a household name, although there are many aspects of his life and career that I was unaware of and I'm sure you'll find this episode equally fascinating and inspirational.We talk about his travels and work all over the globe, dealing with racism in Sydney when he was a kid back in the ‘70s and we discuss his passion and love of food.Everyone has a story and today I'd like you to meet Peter Kuruvita.

Today's guest on Everyone Has a Story was born in France. He's travelled the world and his passion for food has led him to our shores where together with his partner Jimmy, they operate the much talked about Whisky Boy on Gympie Terrace, Noosaville.

I've always admired my next guest's passion and drive. He applies it to all aspects of his life. In this episode of our podcast we talk, Harley Davidson motorbikes, nature photography, growing up in Germany and making a new life here in Australia, and applying his entrepreneurial skills to building a successful business.

My next guest traveled to the other side of the world to work in the bustling financial markets in London.She was in Christchurch in 2011 when the earthquake struck and soon after moved to Australia.If you're familiar with real estate shows like Million Dollar Listing & Luxe Listings, then you've heard the term buyer's agent.That's what my next guest does now, here on the Sunshine Coast with her business Klein Hunter Property Buyers.

My next guest says he disappointed his father when he made the decision not to take over the family's farm in rural Victoria. Instead, a career in aviation lay ahead and these days my guest is one of the founders of Sunshine & Sons on the Sunshine Coast.He says that the business is not a transaction business, it's a relationships business and in this episode, we'll hear how a major supermarket chain helped the start-up find its feet.

My next guest has spent a lifetime involved in music. She was classically trained however her teacher at the time said she had the talent but not the discipline. My guest on today's episode has performed in bands and entertained huge crowds as a DJ all over the world, even working for iconic fashion labels like Louis Vuitton.Everyone Has A Story and today I'd like you to meet Niki De Saint.

Mark is the father of two girls who suffer from eating disorders. He founded endED with the goal of giving hope to those suffering from an eating disorder by creating an alternative to the medical model. The first residential eating disorder facility has opened and it's here on the Sunshine Coast.

David Williamson is Australia's most successful playwright celebrating fifty years in the arts with the release of Home Truths, a memoir, in September of this year. He and his wife Kristin were instrumental in launching the Noosa Long Weekend, now known as Noosa Alive. In this episode of Everyone Has A Story, we talk about his work, his kids, grandkids, the Collingwood Football Club, and Graham Kennedy.

Today's guest on this episode of Everyone Has A Story has been the principal of Sunshine Coast Grammar for many years. As a parent, I really enjoyed this chat, we talk about the impact of social media on kids, online bullying, why a cookie-cutter approach to teaching is not an option for students at Sunshine Coast Grammar and we discuss how the school is helping raise kids today that will turn into the positive community leaders of tomorrow.Everyone Has A Story and today I'd like you to meet Maria Woods.

My guest on today's episode of Everyone Has A Story is a guy whose parents were both Maltese. He lost his mum when he was only eight years of age and his passion for the 1960s and the 1970s, his collectibles, his music, the films he's collected, and his cars, all remind him of his late mum. He's got all of this incredible memorabilia together in what most blokes would describe as the ultimate ‘man cave' on a property that he and his wife Lisa Curry, are preparing as a Sunshine Coast hinterland retreat called, Mali Retreat.He's an entertainer who brings the music of Elvis, Tom Jones, John Lennon, and many others to life up on stage.Everyone Has A Story and today I'd like you to meet Mark Tabone.

Lisa Curry has been a recognised name, or brand if you like for 40 years. From gold medal performances in the pool to launching her own business, Happy, Healthy, You and now she's preparing a new site with her husband Mark Tabone, a property in the Sunshine Coast hinterland called Mali Retreat. Lisa's experienced the highs and the tragic lows. Everyone Has A Story and Lisa has a few to share with us in this episode of our podcast.