Narelle has a severe vision impairment that means she uses a guide dog to get around. She only started to lose my sight about 16 years ago and has lived with only seeing shapes for the last two years.

She is an advocate for digital accessibility in Australia and work to let people know about the benefits of ensuring that everyone can access the information, understand the information and make informed decisions based on the information.

The benefits of good communication and digital accessibility are important to her. And the benefits of being disabled. We are normal.

Socials:

https://dasat.com.au

https://www.youtube.com/@digitalaccesssolutions

https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-access-solutions-and-assistive-technology

https://www.facebook.com/DIGITALDASAT

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This Limited Kintsugi Heroes podcast series was made possible with grant funding from the NSW Department of Communities & Justice Connecting Seniors Grant Program. To find out more about the program, head to https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/connecting-seniors-grant-program-2025.

Phillip has a very simple but profound story. He holds the record at St Vincent’s Hospital for the most heart by passes in one operation when he was 51. This was a defining moment for him as he realised, he may not have much longer to live and needed to live every day for today. Twenty-two years later he is still here, and he is living his life with meaning mostly around helping others. His volunteer work includes Lifeline, Mentoring Men and several boards involved with young people and mental health issues. The two things most important to him are exercise and being part of a supportive community. He sees helping others as his purpose for being on the planet.

Biography

I have had what would be described as a privileged life but like most people there are challenges for everybody. I have overcome my challenges mostly by being there for other people.

Contact

pbasche8@gmail.com

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This Limited Kintsugi Heroes podcast series was made possible with grant funding from the NSW Department of Communities & Justice Connecting Seniors Grant Program. To find out more about the program, head to https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/connecting-seniors-grant-program-2025.

Jeni was married at twenty-two at a time when many women stayed at home after marriage. When her marriage broke up after twenty-two years, she had zero self-esteem, two kids and no idea how to move on as she felt she had no skills. She tells her remarkable story with humour, honesty and wisdom and describes how she tackled nursing first by training as an enrolled nurse but later moved into other levels of nursing. Her story is inspirational for anyone suffering from low self-esteem or imposter syndrome.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This Limited Kintsugi Heroes podcast series was made possible with grant funding from the NSW Department of Communities & Justice Connecting Seniors Grant Program. To find out more about the program, head to https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/connecting-seniors-grant-program-2025.

Terry is an early baby boomer. His life plan to become an archaeologist changed when he was conscripted into the Australian Army in 1966. He shares some of his traumatic experiences as an elite soldier. After two years he left the army and became an accountant and put the military out of his mind. Over time, the memories flooded back, and he had to give up his job at the time. He eventually received help through the Department of Veterans Affairs and saw a psychiatrist for five or six years. He realises that you cannot go through a war and not be affected for the rest of your life. He will never lose his connections with his Army friends.

He became involved with the RSL for some time and with other community activities and has a very happy life with his three families, his own family, the Army and friends from school.

Biography

75 years of age, Passed the NSW Leaving Certificate in1964.

Conscripted into the Australian Army in October 1967, Served a Tour of Duty in Vietnam in 1969 with the 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment.

Worked for 35 years as an Accountant in major commercial organisations, Hon. Secretary of Hornsby RSL Sub-Branch 2009-2014: President of Hornsby RSL Sub-Branch 2014-2020, Committee Member of 5RAR Association 2016-Present.

Treasurer of Parklea Sports & Recreation Club 2004-Present.

Have 2 children & 5 grandchildren.

Contact

terryj699@gmail.com

5RAR ASSOCIATION

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This Limited Kintsugi Heroes podcast series was made possible with grant funding from the NSW Department of Communities & Justice Connecting Seniors Grant Program. To find out more about the program, head to https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/connecting-seniors-grant-program-2025.

Glenys Reid is the CEO of the Chatty Cafe Foundation in Australia, an initiative focused on addressing loneliness and social isolation through facilitating conversations in coffee shops and cafes.

Glenys has a background marked by resilience, shaped by her family's experience, particularly her father's time as a prisoner of war. Her family's attitude towards life and survival has significantly influenced her approach to adversity. Glenys attributes her wisdom and values to the diverse experiences and cultures she encountered through her privileged upbringing, which included education, travel, and scholarships.

Before founding Chatty Cafe, Glenys worked in the corporate sector, facing mental health issues and employment challenges, particularly in 2017.

She places strong emphasis on the importance of physical fitness and its impact on mental health, advocating for the integration of physical activity and social connections in daily life.

She was inspired to start Chatty Cafe in 2019 after her own experiences of loneliness and social isolation led her to notice people sitting alone in cafes.

Despite various challenges, including national bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, she successfully launched Chatty Cafe and grew it to over 230 venues with more than 70 volunteers across Australia.

Glenys values kindness and social connection. She defines kindness as a competency and believes in the power of one person to make a difference, stressing the importance of listening to others' stories and building meaningful relationships.

Social Media

https://chattycafeaustralia.org.au/

https://www.facebook.com/chattycafeaustralia

https://www.instagram.com/ChattyCafeAUS/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenys-reid-8385521a/

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This Limited Kintsugi Heroes podcast series was made possible with grant funding from the NSW Department of Communities & Justice Connecting Seniors Grant Program. To find out more about the program, head to

Margaret-Anne grew up in post-war Australia, experiencing a tough childhood marked by community support and church, yet overshadowed by her father's unresolved trauma.

Inspired by her mother’s kindness, Margaret-Anne learned the importance of empathy and helping those in need, which became central to her values. In 1994, during a severe drought, she launched a grassroots drought appeal, mobilising her community to collect and deliver essential goods to affected areas. This began her lifelong commitment to fundraising and community service, starting with local efforts and expanding to larger initiatives like cancer research.

Despite personal hardships, including raising three children and losing her son Aaron to cancer, she remained dedicated to her community work.

Margaret-Anne lost 20 kilograms, completed a half marathon, and raised significant funds for cancer research in her son’s memory, impacting many lives. She organized vital relief efforts for victims of the Cobargo bushfires, using social media despite limited technical skills, proving her adaptability and resilience. Margaret-Anne participated in skydives and shaved her head multiple times, raising substantial funds and awareness for various causes with creative initiatives.

Her unparalleled community service earned her an Order of Australia Medal (OAM), acknowledging her extensive contributions and inspiring many. She champions simple acts of kindness, advocating patience, empathy, and colourfulness in life, emphasizing humanity's shared desires for well-being.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This Limited Kintsugi Heroes podcast series was made possible with grant funding from the NSW Department of Communities & Justice Connecting Seniors Grant Program. To find out more about the program, head to https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/connecting-seniors-grant-program-2025.

Bradley Dowling is a passionate community advocate and basketball coach who thrives on making a positive impact in the lives of young individuals and raising awareness for neurofibromatosis (NF), a genetic condition he was diagnosed with at age five. Growing up in a supportive family, Dowling saw his parents actively involved in NF advocacy which instilled in him a strong sense of purpose and resilience.

His coaching journey began accidentally with the Hornsby Basketball Association, where he focused on building confidence, teamwork, and a positive attitude among young players. Despite facing stares and whispers from others due to his condition, Dowling has focused on living a full and active life, emphasizing physical fitness, trust in a higher power, and maintaining a positive outlook. Beyond coaching, Bradley works part-time for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance and remains strongly affiliated with the Children's Tumour Foundation of Australia and Chaplaincy Australia.

Bradley's life has not been devoid of challenges, but his approach to overcoming them serves as an inspiration to many. Significant symptoms of NF appeared in his late teens to early adulthood, bringing with them societal challenges such as misunderstanding and judgment. Nonetheless, he utilized these experiences to foster understanding and empathy through media engagement and educational resources.

He provides QR-coded cards to educate others about NF and shares his story publicly to raise awareness. His faith and supportive circle, including family and his church community, have been instrumental in maintaining his resilience. Bradley constantly emphasizes the importance of self-care, taking breaks, and seeking help for mental health, beliefs he puts into practice as he aspires for a future filled with joy and continued community service.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This Limited Kintsugi Heroes podcast series was made possible with grant funding from the NSW Department of Communities & Justice Connecting Seniors Grant Program. To find out more about the program, head to https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/connecting-seniors-grant-program-2025.

Jann McCall grew up in Russell Lea in Sydney, with a multicultural and religious background. Her upbringing shaped her outlook on life, emphasising faith, family, and adaptability amidst evolving societal changes.

Jann's practical decision to become a primary school teacher aligned with her family responsibilities. Teaching allowed her to positively impact young lives. Despite the bureaucratic changes over time, she remained committed to children’s development until health issues resulted in her decision to leave teaching.

Her health issues included a stroke and breast cancer followed by increasing mobility problems. She had intense rehabilitation and adapting to new physical limitations. Despite these, she maintained a positive outlook, emphasising resilience and communal support.

Bringing up three daughters, Jann navigated health and financial challenges. Her family’s unwavering support was crucial. She highlights the importance of open communication, empathy, and adaptability within her marital life, celebrating 41 years of a successful marriage.

Jann's interests in travel and family history provided joy and fulfillment. She engages in planning trips, creating photo books, and genealogy research both for herself and others.

Community support is important to Jann, particularly her church community and longstanding friendships. During COVID, she stayed connected through Zoom dinners and church groups, highlighting the importance of maintaining social bonds for well-being.

With unwavering faith in God's plans, Jann embraces life’s uncertainties with optimism. She finds joy in daily interactions and contributions, believing in the purposeful existence of every individual. Her positivity influences those around her, fostering hope and resilience.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

This Limited Kintsugi Heroes podcast series was made possible with grant funding from the NSW Department of Communities & Justice Connecting Seniors Grant Program. To find out more about the program, head to https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/connecting-seniors-grant-program-2025.