Empowering Leaders

• Bruce McAvaney: The voice behind the most unforgettable moments in Australian sport

  In the world of sports broadcasting, they don’t come much more accomplished - or beloved - than the one and only Bruce McAvaney. Throughout his career, Bruce has covered an incredible 12 summer Olympic games, 20 AFL Grand Finals, the world swimming and world athletic championships, Rugby World Cup, Melbourne Cup and a slew of others. In this episode, you’ll hear about the early influences that ignited Bruce’s passion for sport, the mentors who have supported him throughout his career, and why he remains dedicated to doing the same for up-and-coming broadcasters. Bruce’s almost encyclopaedic knowledge of the sporting world is undoubtedly a result of the extensive preparation he prides himself on, and he tells us why ‘being prepared’ is key advice he gives to young people wanting to follow their dreams. You'll also hear Bruce talk about the more challenging aspects of being a high-profile media personality, why he’s so excited about 17-year-old Australian sprinter, Gout Gout, how self-doubt still manages to creep in after all these years, and the iconic Olympic moment that caught him off guard. Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Wil Anderson: "I'm a storyteller, not a documentarian!"

  In this episode of Empowering Leaders, Luke Darcy sits down with one of Australia’s sharpest and funniest stand-ups—comedian and TV host Wil Anderson. From growing up on a farm in country Victoria to making it big on stage and screen, Wil shares the real story behind the laughs and sheds some light on the gray area of comedians crossing the line. They chat about everything from Wil’s early days idolising Billy Connolly, the hilarious story Wil told Billy when they first met, and how learning to deal with osteoarthritis while staying committed to the craft of stand-up is playing out. Wil talks openly about his creative process, the ups and downs of life in the spotlight, and why curiosity, mindfulness, and backing yourself all play a crucial role in his journey. It’s a wide-ranging, honest, and bloody entertaining conversation about leadership, resilience, and what it takes to stay true to yourself—on stage and off. Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Tyson Ballard: Innovating at the crossroads of Law, AI & Lifestyle

  In this episode of Empowering Leaders, host Luke Darcy sits down with Tyson Ballard, a visionary entrepreneur, legal tech innovator, and creative force shaping industries from law to music, lifestyle, and business transformation. As the founder and CEO of Stella Legal, Tyson is revolutionizing legal operations with AI-driven solutions. Beyond the legal world, he’s a music curator, DJ, and co-founder of All My Friends, Everywhere, a collective blending music, art, and travel into immersive experiences as far afield as up in space! Tyson’s leadership style is bold, innovative, and deeply rooted in collaboration, craftsmanship, and community. His ability to connect ideas across industries is nothing short of inspiring—so much so that, as Luke puts it, if Tyson has an idea, you’d be wise to follow along. You’ll have to make up your own mind when it comes to chasing alligators around golf courses though!Tyson’s ventures span real estate, tech startups, and biotech among so many more, so enjoy this deep dive into Tyson’s multifaceted world and the insights behind his success in building impactful businesses and communities. Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Mike Brey: From Notre Dame to the NBA

  Mike Brey is a coaching legend. As the all-time winningest coach in Notre Dame history, he transformed the Fighting Irish into a powerhouse, guiding them to 13 NCAA Tournament appearances, multiple Sweet 16s, and back-to-back Elite Eight runs. Known for his loose yet fiercely competitive coaching style, Mike has mentored countless players, instilled a culture of confidence and resilience, and built lifelong relationships in the game. Now, as an assistant coach with the Atlanta Hawks, Mike joins Luke to reflect on his coaching journey, the importance of leadership, and the art of building trust within a team. He shares insights on developing young talent like Australian star Dyson Daniels, the lifelong mentorships that shaped his career, and what it takes to build a winning culture—on and off the court. Plus, he reveals the coaching philosophies that have helped him earn the respect of some of basketball’s biggest names, from Mike Krzyzewski to Tom Izzo and Quinn Snyder. This episode is packed with wisdom, stories, and lessons from one of the most respected minds in basketball. Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Paul Barnes: Navigating the Fast Lane of Formula One

  What does it take to keep a world-class Formula One team moving? In this exclusive live episode hosted by Victoria University, Paul Barnes, Director of Support and Logistics at McLaren Racing, offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the immense planning and coordination required to compete at the highest level of motorsport. With over two decades at McLaren, Paul shares his leadership philosophy - emphasising continuous learning as key to building a high-performing team.In 2025, there are 24 Grand Prix weekends, taking place in a total of 21 countries across five continents! Paul delves into the complexities of managing the year-round logistics for his team, from orchestrating global travel for over 100 team members to ensuring every detail runs seamlessly during race weekends. McLaren has delivered on their potential with a flawless victory at the Australian Grand Prix last weekend, overcoming some of the most demanding race conditions to start of new season off with a bang. This achievement underscores the meticulous preparation and teamwork that Paul talks of in his conversation with Luke.The discussion also touches on the rise of Drive to Survive and how it has transformed the sport, bringing in new fans and providing an unprecedented look at the high-pressure world of Formula One. Paul opens up about the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life, offering insights into maintaining well-being and effective team communication in a high-stakes environment.Motorsport enthusiasts, elite-level teams and aspiring leaders alike - this episode provides valuable lessons from one of the key figures behind McLaren Racing’s success - an inspiring discussion on leadership, resilience, and the drive to excel. Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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