Daniel shares the highs and lows of his journey, from the first “pinch me” moment of seeing a stranger buy his product to the ongoing battles against doubt, setbacks, and the invisible barriers we all face. He opens up about protecting his own wellbeing, learning the power of saying “no,” and why the stories we tell ourselves on the inside are often the biggest obstacles to stepping out and making a difference.

Molly brings her warmth and curiosity to the chat, guiding Daniel through fun quick-fire questions, personal reflections, and big lessons that we all can take into our own lives.

In this episode you’ll hear:

- The first breakthrough moment in the Thank You journey

- How Daniel manages his energy and wellbeing while leading a movement

- The “inside story” that holds people back from making change

- His favourite quotes and mantras that fuel resilience and bold action

- Why living a life of service - often unseen - is the truest measure of success

This is a conversation about courage, purpose, and rewriting the narrative of what’s possible.

FOLLOW US FOR MORE! Visit our website for upcoming events and more info - www.standtallevent.com

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Michael’s story is one of resilience, perspective, and unshakable gratitude in the face of life’s greatest challenges. He shares how choosing positivity over despair has shaped his journey, why gratitude routines anchor his daily life, and how surrounding yourself with the right community can transform your future.

You’ll hear Michael reflect on:

- Why living in the present is the greatest gift we can give ourselves.

- How hardship can become a teacher and a stepping stone to a richer life.

- The importance of perspective and finding meaning even in moments of darkness.

- How gratitude practices and strong routines keep him grounded.

- The role of family, community, and faith in building strength for the journey.

Michael reminds us that true success isn’t measured by achievements, but by being present, kind, and committed to serving others. His words are both humbling and deeply inspiring for anyone navigating difficult seasons.

If you’ve ever wondered how to find hope when life feels overwhelming, this conversation will encourage you to pause, reflect, and rediscover the power of gratitude.

FOLLOW US FOR MORE & Visit our Website!

Subscribe to YouTube, Follow on Spotify or Apple.

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@StandTallAustralia

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In this powerful backstage conversation from Stand Tall Canberra 2025, Joany Badenhorst sits down with Matt Caruana, a young man whose story of resilience will stay with you long after you listen.

At just 12 years old, Matt began to struggle with feelings of worthlessness. At 16, he survived falling 7 stories, waking up in hospital, he was faced with life-altering injuries — and an even bigger choice: would his story end there, or was this the beginning of something new?

A chance encounter on a train changed everything. When a stranger asked him a simple but confronting question, “What are you going to do about it now?”. Matt’s perspective shifted forever. That single moment became the spark for his journey of hope, action, and advocacy.

In this episode, Matt opens up about:

• The dark headspace he lived in as a teenager and what it took to break free.
• The pivotal train conversation that gave him the power to reframe his future.
• How he learned that “hope is hopeless without action.”
• Why surrounding yourself with the right people can unlock your strengths.
• The mantra that guides his life today: “What next?”

This is a raw and honest story about courage, community, and discovering light in the darkest of places. Matt reminds us all that the future is built one decision at a time — and that no matter where you are, you always have a choice to take the next step.

Be encouraged. Be inspired. And above all, don’t lose hope.

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Arriving in Australia at just 10 years old with no English and a speech impediment, Duku’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of saying “yes.” From filming motivational videos in his bathroom with his little brother to speaking on global stages - including the United Nations - his journey shows what’s possible when you refuse to give up.

In this episode, Duku shares:

- How bullying and setbacks shaped his drive to grow.

- The creative way he overcame his speech challenges.

- Why his siblings’ belief in him kept him moving forward.

- The importance of starting small—even if it’s just chasing a $9 sandwich.

His personal mantra: “You don’t have to be great to get started, you have to get started to be great.”

This conversation is full of laughter, wisdom, and hope. Whether you’re a young person chasing your dreams or someone needing a reminder that persistence pays off, Duku’s story will leave you inspired to Stand Tall in your own life.

FOLLOW US FOR MORE!

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In this Episode, Joany Badenhorst sits down with Leila Abdallah, whose life changed forever on February 1st, 2020, when a tragic accident claimed the lives of three of her children and their cousin. In the face of unimaginable grief, Leila and her husband Danny chose forgiveness - a decision that has transformed their lives, their family, and their future.

Leila shares her journey of choosing to forgive, and the practical steps that anyone can take to release anger, heal, and find peace. Together, they explore:

• Why forgiveness is a choice—not a feeling
• The four steps to forgiveness inspired by her children:

• ACKNOWLEDGE the pain and its impact
• ACCEPT what cannot be changed
• SURRENDER the pain to find peace
• VOICE your choice to forgive

• How forgiveness strengthens resilience, family bonds, and even future generations
• The heart behind “i4Give Day”, a national day encouraging conversations and acts of forgiveness held annually on February 1st.

Leila's story is a powerful reminder that while we can’t control what happens to us, we can choose how we respond - and that forgiveness can transform lives.

FOLLOW US FOR MORE!

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Tim shares what it was like growing up in a Nigerian-Aussie family, how he found his voice through dance and music, and the real challenges he’s faced along the way. He gets vulnerable about confidence, rejection, faith, and staying true to who you are—even when the world says you’re not enough.

This convo is full of heart, hustle, and hope—and it’s a reminder that you’re not alone, and your dreams are worth fighting for.

FOLLOW US FOR MORE!

Subscribe to YouTube, Follow on Spotify or Apple.

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@StandTallAustralia

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STAY UP TO DATE ABOUT STAND TALL EVENTS https://www.standtallevent.com/

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Our host, Amie Morris, chats with Georgia, about the ability to turn negative experiences into positive creative expressions and how she entered the amazing Film Festival, REELise, and won! By just giving it a shot and expressing her emotions got her 2 awards and her movie played on the big screen during the award ceremony. 

If you, or anyone you know, has suffered from cyber bullying and you want to reach out for advice click the link below: 

*E-Safey Commissioner* Cyber Bullying

And if you fancy giving movie making a shot, any young person 12-24 can enter REELise Film Festival 2025 now: 

REELise Film Festival 2025

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Storytelling in Film
02:50 Realize Film Festival: A Platform for Young Filmmakers
05:57 Networking and Community in Filmmaking

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Cyberbullying is when someone uses the internet to be mean to a child or young person so they feel bad or upset. It can happen on a social media site, game, app, or any other online or electronic service or platform. It can include: posts, comments, texts, messages, chats, livestreams, memes, images, videos and emails.

These are some examples of ways the internet can be used to make someone feel bad or upset:

• Sending hurtful messages about them.
• Sharing embarrassing photos or videos of them.
• Spreading nasty online gossip about them.
• Leaving them out online. 
• Creating fake accounts in their name.
• Tricking them into believing you are someone else. 

*E-Safet Commissioner* https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-topics/cyberbullying

In this episode of Stand Tall, host Amie Morris speaks with Georgia. Cramp, a multifaceted creative in the film and photography industry, about her journey through cyber bullying and how it shaped her career. Georgia shares her experiences of isolation during high school, the impact of social media on mental health, and how she found solace in creativity and storytelling. The conversation highlights the importance of community, support, and reclaiming one's power in the face of adversity, culminating in Georgia's involvement with the REELise Film Festival, which empowers young filmmakers to share their stories.

Takeaways

• Cyber bullying can have long-lasting effects on mental health.
  Isolation during bullying can lead to severe emotional distress.
• Creativity can serve as a powerful escape from pain.
• Support from family and friends is crucial during tough times.
  Schools often lack the resources to effectively address bullying.
• Finding a community can help individuals feel less alone.
  Storytelling is a vital tool for healing and empowerment.
• Film festivals provide a platform for young voices to be heard.
• Reclaiming power is essential in overcoming negative experiences.
• Networking with like-minded individuals can foster growth and creativity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Georgia's Journey
02:10 The Impact of Cyber Bullying
10:23 Navigating Isolation and Seeking Help
15:07 Finding Escape in Creativity
22:51 Turning Pain into Purpose
30:28 The Power of Film and Community

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• School teaches you to fear failure, but it's essential for success.
  Investing in yourself is the best use of your money.
• Money is an emotional topic that isn't often discussed.
  Learning to enjoy money is crucial for financial well-being.
• Starting to invest early can set you ahead of the curve.
• Debt can be a tool for building wealth, not just a burden.
• Your relationship with money can be transformed over time.
• Affirmations can help reshape your financial identity.
• Understanding your emotional responses to money is key to managing it.
• Failure is a stepping stone to success; embrace it. 

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Feeling stressed with life? Maybe you are studying for exams or having issues with friends? Or maybe you are just feeling overwhelmed? Well we have a tool kit that can help!!!

In this episode of Stand Tall, host Amie Morris welcomes Chibs Okereke, (A voice on the CALM app) who shares his journey from corporate life to mindfulness and meditation. Chibs discusses the importance of mindfulness in managing stress, especially for teenagers facing academic pressures. He explains mindfulness in super simple terms, so we can all put it to use. He also gives us a guided mindfulness meditation, showcasing how easy it is to incorporate mindfulness into daily life. Chibs highlights the benefits of mindfulness in enhancing focus, reducing anxiety, and creating more time for enjoyable activities, rather than just being productive. Life is for living! 

Takeaways

• Mindfulness is simply paying attention to what's happening right now.
• It helps to close down mental 'apps' to reduce stress.
• Mindfulness can be practiced anywhere, anytime.
• The goal is to focus on one thing at a time.
• Mindfulness techniques can prevent burnout and stress in adults and teens alike.
• It's important to realize that not everything is as serious as it seems.
• Mindfulness can help improve focus and productivity.
• Creating time for relaxation is as important as being productive.
• Guided meditations can be found easily online.
• Teaching mindfulness to young people can equip them with lifelong tools.

Sound Bites

"Mindfulness helps us stay focused on what you can do right now."

"It's about creating more time for yourself."

"Mindfulness helps us to close down some of those apps."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mindfulness and Its Importance

07:47 Understanding Mindfulness: Practical Techniques

14:56 Mindfulness in Action: Real-Life Applications

Keywords

#mindfulness #meditation #stress relief #mental health #focus #anxiety #teenagers #productivity #relaxation #well-being

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For some people even leaving the house can bring it on. But IT IS OK!

In this episode, host Tyler Antcliff and psychologist Eleni delve into the complexities of anxiety, particularly among teens.

There is strength in speaking out, it is NOT a weakness! They explore the VERY REAL physiological and psychological aspects of anxiety, its triggers in modern life, and the importance of self-discovery and vulnerability in managing mental health.

Eleni shares with us the significance of having a 'toolbox' of strategies to cope with anxiety and encourages listeners to seek help and support when needed.

If you are struggling and need some extra support there are services in Australia you can reach out to including:

• Your own GP - Don't be scared to tell a doctor!
• Headspace - https://headspace.org.au/
• BRAVE - https://brave4you.psy.uq.edu.au/

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All the caged up energy, ambition he wanted to achieve something just exploded - and just this year he has spoken at TEDxSydney Youth 2024, assistant produced with Channel 7 for Stand Tall 2024, speaks at high schools across Sydney about careers, is a student director at UTS representing the voice of 44 000 and is proud to call himself the founder of Interview HQ, his first ever business helping Years 10-12 with their job and scholarship applications, interviews and to become better written and spoken communicators! 

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In this third and final part of our Relationships series, Anna and Nathan discuss the complexities of high school relationships, focusing on the various stages of dating, the all important 'ick'.

What if that happens? Why does it happen? And what do you do if it does?

Takeaways

High school relationships are filled with grey areas
The talking phase is crucial for building connections.
The 'ick' is a common experience that can signal self-sabotage.
Self-reflection is key to understanding relationship dynamics.
It's normal to feel confused about emotions in relationships.
Enjoy the process of getting to know someone.
Communication is essential in navigating feelings.
Don't let the fear of commitment hold you back.
Take relationships day by day, without pressure.
Everyone is learning about relationships together.

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Ever been ghosted ? Did it make you wonder, what on earth happened? One minute you are messaging and getting along great, the next thing you don't hear back.... EVER AGAIN!!

In this conversation, Anna and Nathan discuss the complexities of relationships. They share personal stories, emphasising how normal it is to experience these feelings and the importance of communication. The discussion also touches on the impact of ghosting and the necessity of self-respect in dating. 

Takeaways

It's incredibly normal to feel hard emotions during breakups.
Everyone has different experiences with relationships and rejection.
Communication is key in all aspects of life, especially in relationships.
Ghosting can leave people confused and hurt.
Self-respect is crucial when rejecting someone.
Rejection can be a form of self-development and learning.
It's okay to feel sad after a breakup; allow yourself that time.
Every failed relationship brings you closer to the right one.
Listening to podcasts can help during tough emotional times.
You are not alone in your experiences with love and loss.

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Ever experienced a feeling where you like someone so much you feel your heart beats out of your chest?  And you realise that actually you might have a crush on someone? It is completely normal and ok. Every single human goes through these feelings and they can feel big and overwhelming at times but they ARE REAL! So let's discuss what it feels like and see how other people dealt with those emotions. This first part of a 3 part series we talk about the  feelings the crushes, the rejections and love. Stay tuned for Part 2 and 3. 

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15-year-old Jack Berne was only 10 years old when he started an initiative called 'Fiver For a Farmer' to support drought affected farmers. Jack has changed the lives of thousands having since raised over $2 million. He is an inspiration to young people, proving that you are never too young to make a difference. He has shown young Australians that great things can happen when we come together to support one another. Jack and his family continue to start fresh initiatives including school dress up days, presentations and advice on additional ways to support farmers including water conservation.

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Grace grew up racing motocross and enduro as one of the only junior females fully sponsored in Australia.

In recent years she has trained in freestyle motocross where she became one of just a few girls in the country to clear a 75ft gap. In March 2023 she had an accident in training that left her with a broken pelvis in 5 places. She was airlifted to hospital where she had 2 surgeries and suffered an extremely painful recovery period for 31 days. After intensive physio and hydrotherapy, she is recovering and living life with a new found appreciation. She shares her remarkable story of overcoming adversity.

Takeaways

• Adversity can unlock potential for growth and resilience.
• Building character prepares us to face challenges.
• Tough times will eventually pass.
• Gratitude can transform our perspective.
• Letting go of self-blame is essential for healing and moving forward.

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Derek is a blind, big-wave surfer and author who was the first blind person to ride life-threatening monster waves at Pipeline in Hawaii. Derek has overcome significant adversity in life, defying the odds and re-defining what it means to believe in yourself and to never stop chasing your dreams. Derek recently surfed some of the biggest and most dangerous waves in the world in Nazare, Portugal.

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A question many people struggle with. All the changes and all the choices.

In this episode, Nathan and Anna interview Tamara Swissa, a high school student from Sydney, about the pressures and challenges she faces. The increased workload in year 11, the importance of finding the right group of friends, and the social pressures of social media.

Tamara shares her experiences and strategies for managing these pressures and staying motivated. Anna and Nath also offer advice on balancing schoolwork and social life, and remind listeners that there are many paths to success.

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A question many people struggle with. All the changes and all the choices.

In this episode, Nathan and Anna interview Tamara Swissa, a high school student from Sydney, about the pressures and challenges she faces. The increased workload in year 11, the importance of finding the right group of friends, and the social pressures of social media.

Tamara shares her experiences and strategies for managing these pressures and staying motivated. Anna and Nath also offer advice on balancing schoolwork and social life, and remind listeners that there are many paths to success.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After hitting rock bottom and attempting suicide, he sought a fresh start in New Zealand but eventually returned to his old habits. Darcy found validation and a sense of belonging in the drug scene, becoming a supplier and gaining attention. He reflects on the destructive nature of societal norms and the importance of avoiding toxic influences. Darcy shares his journey from drug addiction to sobriety and becoming a successful personal trainer.

Darcy emphasizes the importance of routine, structure, and working on oneself mentally and physically. He highlights the significance of finding purpose and helping others as a way to maintain sobriety and create a fulfilling life. Darcy offers advice to young people struggling with addiction, urging them to work on themselves now to avoid a harder future.

TRIGGER WARNING - In PART 2, Darcy shares his lowest point where he contemplated suicide. If you are suffering, do not be alone. You can find help at LIFELINE AUSTRALIA :  13 11 14

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Darcy shares his story of struggling with bullying, loneliness, and low self-esteem from a young age. He turned to drugs, crime, and a toxic lifestyle to find acceptance and escape his pain.

After hitting rock bottom and attempting suicide, he sought a fresh start in New Zealand but eventually returned to his old habits. Darcy found validation and a sense of belonging in the drug scene, becoming a supplier and gaining attention. He reflects on the destructive nature of societal norms and the importance of avoiding toxic influences. Darcy shares his journey from drug addiction to sobriety and becoming a successful personal trainer.

Darcy emphasizes the importance of routine, structure, and working on oneself mentally and physically. He highlights the significance of finding purpose and helping others as a way to maintain sobriety and create a fulfilling life. Darcy offers advice to young people struggling with addiction, urging them to work on themselves now to avoid a harder future.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After hitting rock bottom and attempting suicide, he sought a fresh start in New Zealand but eventually returned to his old habits. Darcy found validation and a sense of belonging in the drug scene, becoming a supplier and gaining attention. He reflects on the destructive nature of societal norms and the importance of avoiding toxic influences. Darcy shares his journey from drug addiction to sobriety and becoming a successful personal trainer.

Darcy emphasizes the importance of routine, structure, and working on oneself mentally and physically. He highlights the significance of finding purpose and helping others as a way to maintain sobriety and create a fulfilling life. Darcy offers advice to young people struggling with addiction, urging them to work on themselves now to avoid a harder future.

TRIGGER WARNING - In PART 2, Darcy shares his lowest point where he contemplated suicide. If you are suffering, do not be alone. You can find help at LIFELINE AUSTRALIA :  13 11 14

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She shares her journey and experiences from school life and bullying, through to her commitment that led to winning 3 Gold Medals at the Olympics in Beijing.

She started swimming at a young age and became serious about it at 14. She found solace and passion in swimming and was inspired by Suzy O'Neil. Steph trained rigorously, swimming 15 kilometers a day, six days a week, for 10 years.

She emphasizes the importance of having a dream and accountability to stay motivated. Steph also opens up about her struggles with bullying and finding her place in school and she shares the excitement and challenges of competing in the Olympics. Steph encourages young people to try everything and reflect on their experiences to discover their passion and purpose.

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Despite the daunting diagnosis of high-grade Metastatic Osteoblastic Osteosarcoma at just 12 years old, Molly has refused to let her circumstances define her.

She explains how the diagnosis and recovery from Cancer shaped her identity and she questioned, once returning to school, would people still like her? would they want to be friends anymore? Having gone through such a life changing event, you cannot help but question who you are in the world and where do you go from there. 

Follow @mollycroft on instagram to hear her story 

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At 23 years old Nedd Brockmann became the fastest ever Australian to run across the country.

He embarked on the nearly 4,000km run that took 46 days, to raise money for the homeless charity 'Mobilise.' By the end of his run he had raised $2.5 million.

On his final day more than 10,000 people welcomed him home in an emotional finish that will be remembered for years.

Nedd's relentless focus on never giving up and continuing to show up has inspired the nation. His incredible achievement and the way he did it has resonated with all ages and demographics and is driving people across Australia to take on new challenges.

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Despite the daunting diagnosis of high-grade Metastatic Osteoblastic Osteosarcoma at just 12 years old, Molly has refused to let her circumstances define her.

She stands as a leading light in raising awareness and raising over $1 million for sarcoma-related causes.

In 2021, Molly was honoured with the prestigious NSW Women's Award for "One to Watch," recognising her potential to enact positive change. Furthermore, her unwavering commitment to Sarcoma awareness and her remarkable fundraising endeavours have earned her the esteemed title of Dubbo Regional Citizen of the Year for 2024, a testament to her profound impact on her community.

As co-founder of the Tie Dye Project, her tireless advocacy serves as a beacon of hope for those affected by Sarcoma. Additionally, Molly emphasises the importance of mental health, reminding everyone facing tough times to look for the rainbow amidst life's storms.

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With exceptional grades in high school and a dream to pursue the corporate life, Nathan complete a 3 year bachelors degree at UTS before changing direction to fulfil a dream of entrepreneurship and move abroad.

His uber-successful podcast and personal brand - Uncle Nathan - has reached millions of young Aussies and amassed over 20k followers online, and he is now looking to extend his impact alongside Stand Tall!

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Anna Cocquerel, most famously know as Coco Astoni on Home and Away, recently graduated from the Australian Film Television Radio School (AFTRS)

A remarkable achievement given her early life challenges. Until the age of 9, Anna was unable to read and write due to severe dyslexia. Overcoming a tough start, she entered middle school with low self-esteem and debilitating anxiety. Additionally, she dealt with scoliosis, which required her to wear a full-body brace under her school uniform, leading to bullying.

Despite these obstacles, Anna discovered that life's challenges can build strength. In senior school, she began acting and was cast as Coco Astoni on Home and Away, a role she played for three years.

Anna is passionate about giving hope to students facing learning difficulties, poor body image, anxiety, and bullying. She aims to provide them with tools to overcome their challenges and recognize their unique value.

"I teamed up with Stand Tall because I want to help kids understand that their struggles can empower them. Being different can be a superpower, as seeing the world differently offers a unique perspective."

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Episode 1, Part 1, introduces our fabulous hosts, Anna Cocquerel and Nathan Moss.

Get to know them and Stand Tall in this fun, fast episode. Enjoy !

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