Dropped Balls and Big Calls is a Podcast where we sit down with people from all walks of life to dig into the moments that shape us, the wins, the setbacks, and the wild decisions in between.
Every guest brings a turning point, a time they fell flat, took a risk, or faced a challenge that changed everything. We talk about what it taught them, how they bounced back, and what they’d say to someone standing in the middle of their own big moment right now.
No scripts, just honest, human conversations about the plays that make life what it is.
This week’s episode is a bit different. I’ve been feeling lost lately, so I went back to the words of my late mate, Kev.
Kev lived with muscular dystrophy, but he also lived with more accountability and perspective than most of us ever find. In this episode, I read his final blog and reflect on the lessons he left behind.
It’s a reminder to pay attention to our self-talk, own our choices, and live with purpose, even when life feels heavy.Read Kevin's blog here: Kevin's Blog:
Dropped Balls and Big Calls is a Podcast by The Setback Collective https://www.setbackcollective.com.au/#Bigcallspod #Droppedballsandbigcalls #kevinjefcoate #resilience #musculardystrophy #selftalk #mentalhealth #disability #thesetbackcollective
5 Oct 2025
Episode 14: Boris Struk - A Father’s Fight: Love, Legacy and Muscular Dystrophy
What would you do if your child’s life depended on it?
For Boris Struk, the answer was simple, everything. When his son Ryan was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, Boris turned heartbreak into action, founding Muscular Dystrophy Australia and dedicating his life to creating change.
In this powerful conversation, Boris shares the story behind that fight: the speech that ignited a movement, the belief that “nothing is impossible,” and the extraordinary achievements that followed, from raising over $43 million to establishing a world-class research centre and running more than 100 family camps.
We also explore the deeply personal side of his journey, the love of a father, the grief of loss, and the resilience it takes to keep moving forward while building a legacy that continues to change lives.
This is more than a story about muscular dystrophy. It’s about hope, determination, and the power of believing that if you try, you might just get there.
Listen now and be inspired by what’s possible when love drives the mission.
Support Muscular Dystrophy Australia and help provide vital programs and services for Australians living with neuromuscular conditions: Donate to Muscular Dystrophy Australia
Explore Boris’s incredible photography: BMS PHOTOGRAPHY – Photography by Boris M Struk
Help us grow the Big Calls Pod so we can share more powerful stories. Visit Big Calls Big Shout | Join the Movement Today — The Setback Collective or email jason@bigcallspod.com.au. We'll donate 10% of all funds to charity.
#BigCallsPod #DroppedBallsAndBigCalls #MuscularDystrophy #Advocacy #Parenting #Resilience #RyanStruk #Fundraising #DisabilityAwareness #Community #BorisStruk #thesetbackcollective #NDIS #MuscularDystrophyAustralia
28 Sept 2025
Episode 13: Michele Mattiuzzi - Policing, Prime Time & Building Empires
From the gritty reality of policing and counter-terrorism to the bright lights of Home and Away to building $200m business units, Michele Mattiuzzi’s story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and relentless work ethic.
In this deeply honest conversation, Michele opens up about his tough upbringing, the poverty that fueled his drive, and the lessons learned under pressure as part of the Australian Federal Police. He shares how those experiences shaped his decision-making, discipline, and mental resilience, skills that later helped him carve out a career as an actor and successful business leader.
We dive into the power of storytelling in sales, the harsh truths about burnout and mental health, and the pivotal role faith and community played in rebuilding his life. Michele also speaks candidly about the crisis of truth and authenticity in today’s world and why reconnecting with foundational values might be the most radical act of all.
Whether you’re navigating pressure, chasing reinvention, or searching for purpose, this episode is a powerful reminder that where you start never has to define where you finish.
Michele Matiuzzi on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelemattiuzzi
Find us! - https://linktr.ee/bigcallspod
Dropped Balls and Big Calls is a Podcast by The Setback Collective - www.setbackcollective.com.au
#bigcallspod #droppedballsandbigcalls #michelemattiuzzi #homeandaway #podcast #resilience #mentalhealth #faith
21 Sept 2025
Episode 12: The First 10 - Lessons, Loss and Growth
In this solo episode, Jason takes a step back to reflect on the first ten conversations of Dropped Balls and Big Calls. From lessons learned through powerful guest stories to the challenges of starting a podcast from scratch.
He opens up about moments of grief, the importance of authenticity, and why no one’s going to hand you the path, you’ve got to carve it yourself. Along the way, Jason highlights key takeaways that resonated most with listeners and celebrates the growth that comes from showing up and doing the work.
If you’ve been following since the beginning, or you’re just discovering the show, this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the heart of the podcast, the stories that mattered most, and what’s ahead for Dropped Balls and Big Calls.
💬 If this podcast has resonated with you, please follow, rate, and leave a review wherever you listen. It helps the show grow and keeps these conversations going.For more, please visit:Dropped Balls & Big Calls | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktreewww.setbackcollective.com.auNeed to get in touch? Email: jason@bigcallspod.com.au#Bigcallspod #Droppedballsandbigcalls #resilience #grief #podcast #reflection
7 Sept 2025
Episode 11: Carol Beaumont - From Chaos to Courage
What happens when chaos becomes your normal? For Carol Beaumont, living with a partner battling alcoholism forced her to confront addiction, resilience, and self-discovery in ways she never expected.
In this episode of Dropped Balls & Big Calls, Carol shares her raw and inspiring journey, from navigating the emotional toll of living with addiction to creating Her Courage Speaks, a platform that empowers women through storytelling. She opens up about the challenges of leaving, the healing power of community, and the courage it takes to embrace peace after years of chaos.
This conversation is for anyone who’s felt the weight of supporting someone through addiction, or anyone searching for resilience, empowerment, and growth on the other side of hardship.
For more on her courage speaks, please visit https://www.hercourage.co.nz/speaks
#bigcallspod #droppedballsandbigcalls #thesetbackcollective #addiction #resilience #storytelling #women #empowerment #mentalhealth #recovery #courage #community #personalgrowth
31 Aug 2025
Episode 10: Debra Moore - Elite Sport and the Courage to Take Risks
Former Australian Volleyballer Debs Moore has lived a life defined by resilience, risk, and perspective. From the highs of elite sport to living through the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, Debs shares how she’s built a mindset that refuses to look back and never wants to say no to life’s opportunities.
In this episode, we dive into her incredible journey, the moments that shaped her courage, and why embracing risk might just be the key to living fully.
If you’ve ever found yourself hesitating on a big decision, this chat will challenge you to step forward, back yourself, and say yes.For more, head to: Dropped Balls & Big Calls | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree#Bigcallspod #Droppedballsandbigcalls #Podcast #Australia #Newzealand #Athlete #Olympics #Yachting #Superyachts #Belowdeck #Tsunami #Thailand #Volleyball #Australianvolleyballteam #thesetbackcollective #strongerforthesetback
24 Aug 2025
Episode 9: Paul Harrison - Lessons from the Edge of Regret
What if the fear of regret was more powerful than the fear of failure?
In this episode, Paul Harrison shares how that very mindset drove him to back himself, take risks, and step fully into the entrepreneurial path. From turning rejection into resilience to learning why energy and execution matter more than perfect plans, Paul brings honesty and insight into what it really takes to build something meaningful.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a leader in your own lane, or just someone standing at a crossroads, Paul’s story is a reminder that regret can be the ultimate motivator.Paul Harrison on LinkedIn:Paul Harrison | LinkedInBetter Outcomes Training: Better Outcomes
#Bigcallspod #Droppedballsandbigcalls #Betteroutcomestraining #Paulharrison #JasonBeardsley #Strongerforthesetback #Thesetbackcollective #Training #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #Regret
17 Aug 2025
Episode 8: Jodie Hellings - From Heartbreak to Homecare
In this episode of Dropped Balls and Big Calls, Jodie Hellings opens up about some of the toughest moments of her life, moments that left her questioning everything. With raw honesty, she shares how she leaned on her family, rebuilt her sense of self, and found the courage to move forward.
This conversation is about resilience, self worth, and the power of family and community when you feel like the ground has been ripped out from under you.
If you’ve ever doubted yourself or struggled to find a way through, Jodie’s story will hit home.
For more, please visit: https://linktr.ee/bigcallspod
#bigcallspod #droppedballsandbigcalls #podcast #resilience #mentalhealth #thesetbackcollective #grief #newpodcast #newepisode #parenting #community #family #chronicpain
10 Aug 2025
Episode 7: Jacob Petrossian - Music, Growth and the Quake That Changed Everything
In this conversation, Musician Jacob Petrossian shares his journey exploring personal growth through music and community.
He discusses the significance of rites of passage, the impact of the Christchurch earthquake on his life, and his transition to living in Melbourne. Jacob reflects on his experiences with journaling, early musical influences, and the importance of supportive teachers in his education.
He also talks about his current musical projects and aspirations for the future, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and resilience.
Jacob is the frontman of Paeon and guitarist for Myriad Drone, based in Melbourne, Australia.
Jacob Petrossian YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jacobpetrossian?si=1jfUPep8cqQtqloi (https://youtube.com/@jacobpetrossian?si=1jfUPep8cqQtqloi&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVmk4T1huV0lPRlR5bTBkNQEek4WxRUiczUDlxlUy9GNUs_-3zntl19keclFb5D83Ft0vlBni7Jx32AuYF5s_aem_iUJ0UAWHxsxQEfWZVbD6Ag)Instagram: @jrpetrossianPAEONhttps://paeonband.com (https://paeonband.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVmk4T1huV0lPRlR5bTBkNQEe-uzJtl8NJ9aUkQnQCxGLYF_lfr3GU-UNO4OvfN93CRj8T_tv9MhjJmoRnUw_aem_EHQCHQty9IJxrPdQ1NLwTg)Myriad DroneFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19sbRPpENB/?mibextid=wwXIfr (https://www.facebook.com/share/19sbRPpENB/?mibextid=wwXIfr)Instagram: myriaddrone
Also referenced in this chat:Centre for men and Familieshttps://www.centreformenaustralia.org.au (https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.centreformenaustralia.org.au%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVmk4T1huV0lPRlR5bTBkNQEe1wyU6OEgbCSvTFLs6Qry2JT5OuelVY5PatyNE5qrDaZHLnjnvyqg_1QOoio_aem_Ic7VMSM1Cay6Kn3HADw61Q&h=AT3ueK7Ik9N30mpfa_Zmq6FEGU8E6pj226c5XFJuj_gy82pVQTOqMeWkjKWk3vh9t4xyBctP0wD_XXAmaQvMNUayj5oWVkVud-Vbm0KtOOngK7GqbfQsz22ijZBnujiT0XjONbdqREq0raj74Ik)
Forged: https://www.centreformenaustralia.org.au/events/forged/ (https://www.centreformenaustralia.org.au/events/forged/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVmk4T1huV0lPRlR5bTBkNQEek4WxRUiczUDlxlUy9GNUs_-3zntl19keclFb5D83Ft0vlBni7Jx32AuYF5s_aem_iUJ0UAWHxsxQEfWZVbD6Ag)
Men’s Rites of Passage: https://www.centreformenaustralia.org.au/events/mens-rights-of-passage/ (https://www.centreformenaustralia.org.au/events/mens-rights-of-passage/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVmk4T1huV0lPRlR5bTBkNQEeWpT2vRUjb9ZRCg72ZX_k6LpVRuhBDwZtGZuEeffhp2_IYCF5ROm3weAtr-o_aem_dooLSuv7ar4rcDcFsoit4Q)
#bigcallspod #dropballsandbigcalls #thesetbackcollective #jacobpetrossian #musician #guitarist #Christchurch #Newzealand #Melbourne #Australia #Paeon #MyriadDrone #Ritesofpassage #forged #centreformenandfamilies #earthquake #resilience #mentalhealth
3 Aug 2025
Episode 6: Lauren Gibbs - Intrusive Thoughts, Silent Battles, and the Truth About Parenthood
In this powerful and honest conversation, I’m joined by Lauren Gibbs, a mum and business owner, who opens up about her trauma and the hidden side of parenting in one of the most important podcasts to date.
From intrusive thoughts to trauma, ADHD, OCD, and rage, Lauren shares what many parents feel but few are willing to say out loud.
We talk about:
• Why some of the darkest thoughts happen to the most loving parents
• The mental load, stigma, and silence that surrounds new parenthood
• How trauma and undiagnosed conditions show up after birth
• And why we need to listen without judgement
Worldwide insights:
• Over 80% of new parents experience intrusive thoughts
• Around 50% of mothers and 20% of fathers report thoughts of harming their baby (they rarely act on them, it’s anxiety, not intent)
• 1 in 5 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers experience perinatal depression or anxiety
Lauren’s courage will help others feel seen, heard, and less alone. Whether you're a parent or know someone who is, this is an episode we all need to hear.
Full episode drops tomorrow!
📸 Check out Lauren’s photography at laurenashleephotography.com
Support Services: Australia & New Zealand:
Australia:
• PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia)
📞 1300 726 306 | 🌐 panda.org.au
• Lifeline Australia
📞 13 11 14 | 🌐 lifeline.org.au
• Beyond Blue
📞 1300 22 4636 | 🌐 beyondblue.org.au
New Zealand:
• Lifeline Aotearoa (NZ)
📞 0800 543 354 or text 4357 | 🌐 lifeline.org.nz
• Plunket – Parental Mental Health Support
📞 0800 933 922 | 🌐 plunket.org.nz
• 1737 – Need to Talk?
📞 Free call or text 1737
• Mothers Matter NZ
🌐 mothersmatter.nz
#bigcallspod #podcast #resilience #newpodcast #droppedballsandbigcalls #mentalhealth #parenting #parents #mother #fatherhood #postpartum #depression #postpartumanxiety #ocd #adhd
27 Jul 2025
Episode 5: Gray Vickers - When the World Breaks Down, You Write the Soundtrack
This conversation explores the journey of Kiwi musician Gray Vickers, from early influences and experiences to the formation of These Four Walls and navigating the music industry.
In this conversation, Gray discusses the differences in the music industry between New Zealand and Australia, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities faced by bands in both markets. He shares his personal journey of rebuilding after a difficult period, emphasizing the importance of collaboration within the band and the impact of COVID-19 on their momentum.
Gray highlights the joy of creating music and the longevity of the band, as well as their plans for the future, including new music and tours.
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to make music your life or come back stronger when it nearly breaks you, this one’s for you.
For more, please visit: Dropped Balls & Big Calls | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree (https://linktr.ee/bigcallspod)
20 Jul 2025
Episode 4: Paul Rourke - When Life Stops, Twice
Paul Rourke is a musician, husband, a father, and a bloke who’s faced things most of us couldn’t imagine.
In this episode, Paul opens up about his journey through music, family dynamics, mental health, and the life changing experience of surviving not one, but two cardiac arrests in just seven days, with no clear answer as to why.
We dive into his relationship with alcohol, overcoming imposter syndrome, learning to communicate more openly, and the lessons that come from hitting pause on life in the hardest possible way.
This chat is about resilience, vulnerability, and figuring out what really matters when everything else is stripped away.
Thanks for tuning in to Dropped Balls & Big Calls.
For more please visit Dropped Balls & Big Calls | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree (https://linktr.ee/bigcallspod)
13 Jul 2025
Episode 3: Tommy Flanagan - Footy, Warnie, and Finding His Voice in Media
Tommy Flanagan’s that mate who somehow knows every sporting stat, every story behind it, and somehow, he's made a career out of it.
From calling Footy as a kid to building a media career that’s seen him work with Sportsbet, overseas cricket tours and Clubby Sports, Tommy’s journey is one built on passion, persistence, and the people he surrounds himself with.
In this chat, we cover everything from footy commentary and acting gigs to life lessons learned through resilience, family, and just showing up when it counts.
If you’re chasing a career in sport, media, or content creation, or just love a good story, this one’s for you.
For more, please visit Dropped Balls & Big Calls | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree (https://linktr.ee/bigcallspod)
6 Jul 2025
Episode 2: Ross Niven - A Page from the Grief Diaries
Ross Niven shares his personal journey through grief, mental health challenges, and identity evolution after his mother's death in this interview, highlighting the importance of healing and presence.
29 Jun 2025
Episode 1: Chris Bull - From Music to Mortality
Chris Bull recounts his life journey, from his childhood and musical endeavors to navigating profound loss and embracing fatherhood, in an interview on resilience and the importance of family.
25 Jun 2025
Episode 0 - What If Your Setbacks Were the Start of Something?
Host Jason Beardsley introduces his podcast, exploring themes of resilience and mental health through honest conversations about personal setbacks and growth.
6 Jun 2025
Welcome to Dropped Balls & Big Calls
Host discusses navigating grief, failure, and mental health, offering a raw and human perspective on finding purpose through connection.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
4,458
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 50 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
72
Social presence
0
YouTube
68
Engagement
0
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