Talking Points Talking Points

Matt Durrant is a film maker and host of the Gold Digger Podcast, a show that explores the issues with Australian Rugby and talks to some of the most influential people in the game, to understand the rise and fall of the code in Australia.

One for the real Rugby tragics, in this episode, we discuss what happened to the game in Australia and work through how the game is getting back on its feet.

An interesting discussion with a great bloke.

In a first for the show, I sat down for a great chat with the wonderful team from Gold Coast based Nonprofit organisation and Charity, Everything Suarve about the amazing work they do with disadvantaged and troubled youth.

In addition to talking to the team behind ESuarve, I was joined by one of the program participants, to hear first hand about his behaviours, the experiences in his life that shaped his behaviours and his commitment to improve his life - a truly amazing young man and a profound experience.

It is easy to judge a book by its cover and this discussion shows how wrong that is.

A must listen!

Michael Gunn is a unique individual, succeeding in two demanding and challenging careers, having played played professional Rugby for the Qld Reds, whilst completing his Engineering degree.

We talk about his Rugby journey and his vocational aspirations and how they come together. We explore his experiences, the thought process he goes through in determining his future and provide some insight into the mind of someone who has achieved in two highly functioning fields.

Alex Xinis is one of Australia's best chefs, having served as the Head Chef at renowned Melbourne institutions Hellenic Republic and Press Club. A chef and consultant, Alex is currently the Chef in Residence at Nostimo Restaurant in Brisbane and runs one of Melbourne's most successful remote restaurants, Almost Like Yia Yias (Aly Food) serving exceptional greek food.

We talk about life as a chef, why he chose this career and the impact of Covid on the industry and how it forced him to adapt, among other things.

A talented and great human being.

A raw, real, yet often lighthearted discussion with Haidee Jackson about her experience with Breast Cancer.

We discuss the impact Breast Cancer had on her life and how it impacted her, her family and friends and her relationships. Despite what she has been through, she is one of the most amazing and positive people I have ever met and is someone that I consider a genuine friend.

A humbling experience to talk to someone and have them share their experience so honestly and openly - an absolute privilege.

A wonderful conversation about trauma and how to deal with it effectively.