Conversations for Thriving Together Podcast

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest David Bott

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:30:00 +0900

What if wellbeing isn’t something we add… but something we live?

In my latest episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I sit down with David Bott from The Wellbeing Distillery to explore what it truly means to embed wellbeing into the fabric of our schools, families, and everyday lives.

David challenges us to rethink wellbeing - not as a program or initiative, but as a way of seeing ourselves, relating to others, and shaping the cultures we are part of.

We explore:
• The stories we carry and how they shape young people
• Why adult wellbeing is the foundation for student wellbeing
• What it takes to move from “doing wellbeing” to living it
• How small, intentional shifts can transform culture over time

This conversation is a powerful reminder that wellbeing is not an extra—it’s the work.

Contact David through: https://thewellbeingdistillery.com/ OR

linkedin.com/in/davidfbott

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Meg Durham

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:58:34 +0900

What if the most powerful thing we can do for young people… is to take better care of ourselves? In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I sit down with Meg Durham for a deeply honest and practical conversation about what it really means to be well - not just as educators and parents, but as humans.

Together, we explore:

Why so many of us feel exhausted, even when we’re doing “all the right things”
How to reconnect with ourselves beyond the roles we hold
What it means to give ourselves permission to be human - not perfect
The powerful impact of modelling wellbeing for the young people in our care
Simple, meaningful ways to move from surviving… to truly thriving

This is not about adding more to your plate. It’s about changing how you show up for yourself and for others.

If you’re an educator, leader, or parent who wants to support young people to flourish, this conversation is for you.

Click here to visit Meg's website: https://www.megdurham.com/

Or connect with Meg on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/meg-durham

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest James Cavanagh

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 05:01:55 +0900

What if behaviour isn’t the problem… but a signal? In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I speak with James Cavanagh from the RAWlife Centre for Applied Neurocoherence about how understanding the human nervous system can transform the way we support young people.

James shares powerful insights into why many of the challenges we see in schools and families today are not simply behavioural issues, but reflections of capacity, regulation, and the environments young people are navigating.

Together we explore:

• Why behaviour is often a signal rather than the problem
• What “neurocoherence” means and why it matters for learning
• How environments shape regulation and engagement
• Supporting neurodiverse learners to thrive
• Why adult wellbeing and regulation matter more than we think

For educators, leaders, and parents, this conversation offers a powerful shift - from trying to fix behaviour to designing environments where young people can truly flourish.

Connect with James: https://jcavanagh.com/

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Dr Justin Coulson

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:20:11 +0900

How do we raise resilient, emotionally healthy young people in a world that feels increasingly complex? In this episode, I’m joined by DrJustin Coulson psychologist, bestselling author, parenting expert, and co-host of Channel Nine’s Parental Guidance. Through his work with Happy Families, Justin has helped thousands of parents and educators better understand children’s behaviour, connection, and wellbeing.

Our conversation explores the powerful role families and schools play together in shaping environments where young people feel safe, supported, and capable of thriving.

If you’re a parent, educator, or leader who cares deeply about the wellbeing of young people, this is a conversation not to miss.

Click here to read Justin's work: https://happyfamilies.com.au/product-category/books

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Kate Lose

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 04:57:16 +0900

If we want young people to truly thrive, we must first ensure they feel safe, seen, and understood!

In the latest episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I’m joined by Kate Lose, facilitator from Berry Street Education, to explore what trauma-informed practice actually looks like in schools and homes. This is not about adding another program. It’s about shifting from managing behaviour to understanding it. It’s about building cultures of safety, regulation, belonging, and connection. And it’s about supporting staff and families as much as students.

Kate shares practical, grounded strategies for leaders, educators, and parents who want wellbeing to be lived - not laminated.

If you care about creating environments where children and communities can truly thrive together, this conversation is for you.

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Dana Kerford

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 07:02:29 +0900

What if wellbeing wasn’t about another program - but about how we show up in everyday relationships?

In the latest episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I’m joined by Dana Kerford to explore how strong relationships, shared language, and consistent adult behaviour create calmer, more connected school and family cultures. We unpack why explicitly teaching friendship skills matters, how clear boundaries actually support wellbeing, and the difference between doing wellbeing and living it through culture.

If you’re a teacher, school leader, or parent navigating friendship challenges, behaviour, and wellbeing in real-world settings, this conversation offers practical insights and reassurance that small, intentional actions can make a big difference.

To connect with Dana:

Visit her website: https://urstrong.com/

Or via Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/danakerford

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Tom Boyd

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 06:55:01 +0900

What happens when someone reaches the pinnacle of success - and realises it still isn’t enough to feel okay? In the latest episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I’m joined by former AFL number one draft pick and Western Bulldogs Premiership player, Tom Boyd.

From the outside, Tom had everything - elite talent, national recognition, and a pivotal role in the Bulldogs’ historic 2016 Premiership. But behind the scenes, he was facing intense pressure and significant mental health challenges, ultimately making the courageous decision to step away from football and redefine his path.

This is a powerful conversation about identity, pressure, and the importance of choosing wellbeing over external expectations.

Tom’s story offers valuable lessons for leaders, educators, parents, and anyone supporting young people in high-pressure environments.

To connect with Tom, visit his website: https://www.tomboyd.com.au/ or via Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tomboyd17

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Callum Hann

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:15:54 +0900

What if food was more than fuel and instead a powerful pathway to connection, confidence, and wellbeing?

In this episode, I’m joined by Callum Hann - Australian chef, author, and co-founder of Sprout Cooking School - to explore how cooking, shared meals, and food education can support wellbeing in young people, families, and school communities.

Callum shares insights from his journey through hospitality, restaurants, and education, and reflects on: how food creates connection and belonging, why cooking builds confidence and life skills, what schools and families can do to foster healthier relationships with food and the role of joy, creativity, and community in wellbeing.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that wellbeing doesn’t always start with a program....sometimes it starts around the kitchen bench.

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Sarah Sutter

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:13:41 +0900

What if leadership wasn’t about having all the answers, but about creating the conditions where people can truly thrive?
In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, former gold medalist, now leadership coach Sarah Sutter shares how self-awareness, trust, and intentional conversations shape cultures of wellbeing, connection, and accountability. Together we explore how leadership shows up not only in organisations and schools, but also in families and everyday relationships - reminding us that thriving begins with how we lead ourselves and others.

To connect with Sarah:

Visit her website: www.sarahsutter.com.au

Or via Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/sarah-sutter-67442111

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guests Dale Sidebottom and Paul Campbell

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 06:13:34 +0900

What if play was the missing link in wellbeing, learning, and connection?
In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I’m joined by Dale Sidebottom and Paul Campbell to explore how play can transform classrooms, families, and communities.

Dale and Paul share why play isn’t just for young children, how playful moments build belonging and resilience, and practical ways parents and educators can bring more joy, connection, and energy into everyday life.

This conversation is uplifting, practical, and a powerful reminder that thriving often starts with a little more laughter, movement, and fun.

To connect with Dale and Paul:

Visit their website: www.theschoolofplay.co/

Or via Linkedin:

Dale: linkedin.com/in/dale-sidebottom-25ab5186

Paul: linkedin.com/in/paul-campbell-68304131b

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Glen Gerreyn

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 05:05:46 +0900

What role does hope play in helping young people and communities thrive?
In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I’m joined by Glen Gerreyn, founder of The HopeFull Institute, to explore how hope and purpose can be intentionally cultivated in schools, families, and leadership.

Glen shares powerful insights on building optimism, resilience, and meaning, reminding us that hope isn’t wishful thinking, but a skill that can be developed and lived every day. This is an inspiring conversation for educators, parents, and leaders committed to helping young people flourish.

To connect with Glen:

Visit his websites:

Or via Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/glengerreyn

And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Justin Robinson

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:18:48 +0900

In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I speak with Justin Robinson from The Wellbeing Distillery about moving beyond one-off initiatives to embedding wellbeing as a strategic operating system across schools and families. Drawing on his journey from Geelong Grammar to working with hundreds of schools globally, Justin unpacks what truly sustains wellbeing over time - and what leaders, teachers, and parents can do to make it real.

To connect with Justin:

justin@thewellbeingdistillery.com linkedin.com/in/jrobinson-wellbeing linkedin.com/company/the-wellbeing-distillery And related website links are: The Wellbeing Distillery https://thewellbeingdistillery.com/ HAT Wellbeing https://www.hatwellbeing.com/ Be3 Wellbeing https://be3wellbeing.com/ My Manifesto https://mymanifesto.me/ And if you enjoy the podcast series, buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Katherine Adnett

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 06:48:37 +0900

In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I’m joined by Katherine Adnett, Senior Research Fellow in Adelaide University's Education Futures unit and a leader in educational innovation and leadership.

Katherine brings a powerful blend of school leadership experience and practice-led research, supporting leaders to navigate complexity, drive innovation, and build cultures where people and learning can flourish.

Our conversation explores the intersection of wellbeing, leadership, and future-focused education, and how adaptive leadership and shared purpose create the conditions for thriving schools and educators.

For more information on this episode, or to connect with Katherine visit: linkedin.com/in/katherine-adnett-366112112

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Dr Denise Quinlan

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 06:37:32 +0900

What does resilience really look like in schools today, for students, educators, and leaders?
In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, Dr Denise Quinlan shares powerful insights into building sustainable wellbeing and collective resilience in school communities.

Denise unpacks how we can move beyond “coping” toward flourishing, and how small, intentional practices help people adapt, recover, and grow through challenge. This conversation is thoughtful, practical, and deeply reassuring for anyone leading or supporting wellbeing in schools.

For more information on this episode, or to connect with Denise visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdenisequinlan/

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Chris Ramsden

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 07:01:56 +0900

What if games could teach us more than just how to win?
In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, Chris Ramsden from Accelium and Mind Lab shares how strategy-based games can build critical thinking, resilience, and emotional intelligence in learners of all ages.

Chris explains how challenge and reflection develop transferable skills for learning and life — empowering students to think deeply, connect meaningfully, and thrive beyond the classroom.

For more information on this episode, or to connect with Chris visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisramsden/

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Susan McLean

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 06:34:43 +0900

In today’s world, technology is a big part of our children’s lives, but staying safe, kind, and balanced online has never been more important.
In this powerful conversation, Susan McLean, Australia’s leading cyber safety expert, shares practical advice for parents and educators on helping young people navigate the digital world with confidence and care.

This episode is full of insights on building trust, setting healthy boundaries, and empowering students to make positive choices online.

For more information on this episode, or to connect with Susan visit: https://www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au/

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Madhavi Nawana Parker

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 14:00:17 +0900

In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I chat with Madhavi Nawana Parker from Positive Minds Austrlia about practical ways to help children understand their emotions, strengthen empathy, and build resilience through kindness and connection.

Empowering, relatable, and full of actionable tips.... this is one for families and educators alike!

For more information on this episode, or to connect with Madhavi visit: hhttps://positivemindsaustralia.com.au/

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Matt Pitman

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 06:18:16 +0900

In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I speak with Matt Pitman to explore how authentic leadership and a strong sense of belonging help schools flourish. Matt shares insights on creating trust, connection, and purpose in staff and students, and how vulnerability and consistency build genuine culture. This episode is a reminder that when people feel valued and included, they don’t just perform better they thrive together.

Connect with Matt

Website: www.mattpitman.com.au

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/mattlukepitman

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Dr Shyam Barr

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 06:27:44 +0900

In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I chat with Dr Shyam Barr, author of Educate to Self-Regulate, about how students can learn to manage their attention, emotions, and motivation. Shyam shares practical strategies for teachers and families to help young people take ownership of their learning and wellbeing. This conversation explores how self-regulation builds resilience, confidence, and lifelong curiosity - essential skills for thriving in and beyond school.

Connect with Shyam

Website: https://www.shyambarr.com.au/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shyambarr/

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Dr Helen Street

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 09:20:15 +0900

In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, Dr Helen Street explores how wellbeing isn’t a program we deliver but a culture we create every day. As founder of Contextual Wellbeing and Positive Schools, Helen shares how schools and families can build environments where people feel connected, valued, and engaged in meaningful learning.

Together we discuss how context shapes behaviour and motivation, and the practical ways leaders and educators can nurture belonging, autonomy, and purpose. This is a powerful reminder that when we design environments for connection, learning and flourishing naturally follow.

Connect with Helen and/or Positive Schools Conferences

website: https://www.helenstreet.com/

https://www.positiveschools.com.au/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-helen-street-39262015/

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Tyson Greenwood

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 07:07:36 +0900

In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I chat with Tyson Greenwood from URSTRONG about why friendships matter so much for children’s wellbeing, at school and at home. We unpack practical language, skills, and strategies to help young people build healthy friendships, navigate “friendship fires,” and feel confident in their social world.

Empowering, relatable, and full of actionable tips.... this is one for families and educators alike!

For more information on this episode, or to connect with Tyson, visit URStrong at: https://urstrong.com/

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Ash Manuel

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 07:16:00 +0900

In this episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I’m joined by Ash Manuel, founder of Growing with Gratitude, to explore how simple daily habits can help children and adults build resilience, optimism, and wellbeing.

Ash shares his journey of bringing gratitude, kindness, and mindfulness into schools and homes through practical, strengths-based practices that make wellbeing tangible and sustainable. Together we discuss how gratitude can shape school culture, strengthen relationships, and help young people develop lifelong wellbeing skills.

This episode is a reminder that thriving begins with the small, consistent actions that shape how we think, connect, and grow - one grateful moment at a time.

Buy "Growing With Gratitude" or Connect with Ash:

website: https://growingwithgratitude.com.au/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-manuel-201678bb/

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Conversations for Thriving Together: Guest Prof Lea Waters

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 06:41:11 +0900

In the very first episode of Conversations for Thriving Together, I speak with Professor Lea Waters, world-leading psychologist and founder of the Visible Wellbeing approach. Together we explore how discovering and developing our strengths transforms not just individuals, but families and whole school communities.

Lea shares how her SEARCH framework helps parents and educators embed wellbeing into daily routines and conversations, making strengths a natural part of learning and living. This conversation is an inspiring reminder that when we focus on what’s strong - not what’s wrong - we create the conditions for people of all ages to truly thrive.

Buy "The Strength Switch" or Connect with Lea:

Website: https://www.leawaters.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/profleawaters/

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press

Coming Soon...Conversations for Thriving Together

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:56:30 +0900

“Conversations for Thriving Together” explores how wellbeing, leadership, and learning connect to create flourishing schools and communities. Each episode features inspiring guests and practical insights that deepen our understanding of resilience, purpose, and the daily habits and practices that help educators and students truly thrive.

Buy a copy of "Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students" at https://www.davidkolpak.com.au/ or through Amba Press