Expand On That with Paris Wells

When we sit in a theatre and watch an extraordinary performance we don't really think of how that performance must be repeated night after night, nor do we know what work was required in order to get the show across the line. The girls of Blanc de Blanc (blancshow.com) sat with us backstage in St Kilda post performance and we talked all things showbiz, the circus and touring. We got some interesting insight into a world that some of us take for granted. If you can GO SEE THIS SHOW!

There’s all different types of rad boss ladies out there and we were so excited to speak to this exceptional one - Lieutenant & Helicopter pilot in the Royal Australian Navy, Kate Munari. Straight out of high school, the high achieving Kate went straight into the Navy to train as a pilot. Kate has served 3 tours in Afghanistan as part of the British Royal Marine’s Commando Helicopter Force (CHF), as aircraft commander. She has now been a military member for over 15 years. Kate tells us about her ups and downs in what is a predominately male environment, the times she came under enemy fire, and her future mission to inspire others. Thanks for expanding with us Kate!

When you have been acting since you were little you’d think the showbiz lifestyle was pretty normal, right? You’d get up each day, and head to work just like everyone else. Jacinta Stapleton is a hard worker. You might remember Jacinta from her iconic role as Amy in Neighbors or more recently as Mercedes in the Schapelle Corby TV movie. Stapleton speaks of her evolution as a woman and Actor in the industry, the pilgrimage to LA and the realities of her world. We drank bubbles and expanded!

You would think an Olympic Gold Medalist dreams of being an olympian from a young age, however believe it or not, Matthew Mitchem gained his diving skills from trampolining! In this detailed interview, Matt tells us about his initial failures to make the Olympics, and the personal journey that led him to meet his new coach. He not only made it to Beijing, he won gold! When the honeymoon was over, another journey began. Matt struggled with depression, narcotics addiction and restlessness. Although Matt struggled, it was his self awareness and vulnerability that rescued him. Now a talented and funny cabaret performer, Matt is having the time of his life. We loved talking to Matt, he even sang for us! Enjoy!

Dublin born and bred comedian Andrew Stanley was initially a computer programmer (which explains his hyperactive & hyper-analytical approach towards comedy.) With the ability to perform unscripted stand-up comedy, Andrew creates an entire show out of audience interaction. He always ensures the audience leaves in hysterics, laughing about his perceptions on their lives. We had a chat with Andrew during the Melbourne International Comedy Festival about the life of a comedian.

Professional screenwriter Peter Mattessi is a veteran soap writer. He writes for Neighbours, East Enders and other BBC staples, splitting his time between London and Melbourne. Peter expands on the world of soap opera writing and his story of success, along with hilarious antidotes about reality TV, family and legal studies. So who writes this stuff? Peter does!

Jimmy Hurlston is the real deal; a self made restaurant owner (Easeys, Truck Stop Deluxe & Guilty) who found his path in life after writing a book documenting all the best burger places across Victoria. A purist at heart, this Melbourne connoisseur takes his burgers very seriously. With over 68,000 Instagram followers (@jimmysburgers) all hanging off his melted cheese and beef filled images, he has become the leading force behind Melbourne’s burger craze. Jimmy expands on all things food, social media and finishing the things you’ve started. Enjoy!  

There are DJ’s and there are collectors. Sometimes, the two will intertwine. PBS Dj Miss Goldie AKA Samantha Goldie considers her gigs an exhibition of her incredible collection. Her passion has lead her to host her own radio program (Boss Action), DJ at major soul festivals and live the simple life she desires. Speaking of desires, Goldie has also lived the life of a bondage expert. From suspending powerful men in ropes, to piecing their nipples etc, Goldie approaches her other profession like "punk rock.” She goes against what society deems to be the normal system of intimacy and frees people from their repressions. Goldie is a Melbourne gem, we hope you enjoy this as much as we did!  

Remember Tobie from all the morning shows with his puffy afro? Well he's all grown up now. Tobie came in and expanded on all the excitement, trials and tribulations of the Fifteen Restaurant (Jamie Oliver), his work travels in Europe, his struggles at school and his favourite new project - his 2 year old daughter!. This is definitely one of our favourite chats thus far. ENJOY!

Don't ask him for a free drink or else! JJ, co-founder of The London Cocktail Club, expands on the liquor industry in the UK and the story of his first bar. Originally a prize winning ‘flair’ bartender, this Birmingham lad ended up winning BBC2’s THE RESTAURANT (hosted by Raymond Blanc), as well as winning the London Bartender of the Year award. Now teaming up with the Princes’ Trust (Royal Family Charity), JJ’s goal is to mentor young bartenders and give those in need purpose. He wants to give the cocktail industry the validity he has worked so hard towards. JJ also let Paris crash on his couch in London when she needed a place to stay. Legend!

As the old saying goes, 'Get busy living, or get busy dying.' Raphael was born with Cystic Fibrosis, and was given a much shorter life expectancy than his bold nature has proved. Dancer, poet, photographer and motivator, Raph is not only an old friend but a true light in this world. He tells us the story of how he chose life! So if you’re out there having a bad day, tune into our conversation with Raph as he expands on a life not everyone lives. 

Artist Kirsha Kaechele is the wife of Tasmanian Art Collector/Pro Gambler and Philanthropist, David Walsh. Kirsha is from California and upon the death of her father, embarked upon life's journey with an open mind and free heart. Having found herself in the jungle training to be a Shaman then touring the art scene globally, Kirsha never surrendered her thirst for life. She now lives on the other side of the world, with her husband and their beautiful baby in a cliff face home under the MONA Gallery in Tasmania. If you like to hear about the road less travelled, listen up as we chat to Kirsha.

On this weeks’ episode, we chat to London based stand-up comedian Markus Birdman. Here for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Markus expands on the myths, trials & tribulations of being a comedian. From his early days touring with Noel Fielding (The Mighty Boosh) to his current life of juggling fatherhood and a comedy career, this is a great chat with a true professional. Enjoy! See Markus live at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival until April 22nd. https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/2017/shows/between-the-devil-and-the-deep-blue-sea-1

James Young, owner of the infamous Cherry Bar (Melbourne's home of rock 'n' roll) and Fitzroy’s Yah Yah’s is a dedicated husband, father and live music supporter. Giving up a legal career for the hard life of a nightclub owner, James takes us back to the begining with a humorous antidote for the perfect marriage. A Melbourne legend; we hope you enjoy listening to James Young as he expands on that!

This week on Expand On That, we chat to Salvatore Malatesta - founder of Melbourne's infamous St. Ali. We sat on his lounge room floor, had some bubbles and spoke all things business, family and growing up a Melbourne ‘wog-boy’.  Sal studied law at Melbourne Uni in the 90s, where he would also open his first cafe. By the time he had finished his degree he had 15 cafes to his name. 18 months later he was done with law - the caffeine pull was just too strong!  Sal speaks candidly about what it takes to make it in business and how important it is to take a little time for yourself everyday. Enjoy one of the greats!

Lead singer of Killing Heidi and multi Aria Award winner, Ella Hooper is an incredible person with a beautiful heart. We met Ella at a music school where she teaches song writing. Ella tells us about her trials and tribulations with life and the band, and reveals her vulnerability after turning 30. We love this girl, she loves life and lord knows she can expand on that! Follow us on... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/expandonthat/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pariswells/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ParisWells

Coming soon!