Exceptional

About Exceptional

Stories, conversation and wisdom from the Santa Sabina Ex-Student’s community. Season two focuses on 'Legacy in Action' with Cynthia Myssy (Santa Alumni) as the host for this season

Publisher

Santa Sabina Ex-Students Association

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

8 Mar 2022

Latest episode

6 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

3 of 14 episodes have a transcript.

1. 

   6 Oct 2026TRANSCRIPT

   Women in Family Law: Boundaries and Quiet Courage | Monica Serci

   Cynthia Myssy interviews Monica Serci, a special counsel at Walter and Elliot Family Lawyers, about recognizing coercion, the undercounting of women's work, and maintaining personal boundaries.

2. 

   22 Sept 2026TRANSCRIPT

   Career Change, Caring and Losing a Husband |Caroline Smith

   Cynthia Myssy interviews Caroline Smith, General Manager of Apprenticeship Careers Australia, about her profound career change and resilience forged through personal loss and caregiving.

3. 

   9 Sept 2026TRANSCRIPT

   Victim Advocacy: 36 Years, Mostly Unpaid | Howard Brown

   About the Guest Howard Brown is an advocate for victims of crime in Australia with over three decades of dedication to helping victims and their families navigate the judicial system. His journey into advocacy began after the traumatic murder of his client and friend, Andrew, in 1988. Howard's relentless commitment has led to significant legal reforms, including the integration of victim impact statements in the judicial process. He has served on influential bodies like the New South Wales Sentencing Council and the New South Wales Victims Advisory Board, earning him the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2004 for his extraordinary service. Key Takeaways: Howard Brown's advocacy work was initiated by personal tragedy, which spurred him to support victims through a frequently indifferent justice system. Victim impact statements, a significant reform Howard helped to implement, are crucial in ensuring victims' voices are heard in court. Despite the extensive personal and financial costs, Howard continues his work pro bono, driven by a profound sense of duty and capability. Howard’s expertise and passion have influenced major legal reforms in Australia, advocating for more transparent justice systems. His personal experiences with trauma, and disease have deepened his empathy and commitment to advocating for others. Notable Quotes: "Someone has to stand up." – Howard Brown reflecting on his decision to advocate after Andrew's murder. "Once the jury has reached a verdict… a judge then has to evaluate what type of punishment is appropriate for the defendant." – Howard on the importance of victim impact statements. "If you live a life devoid of emotion… you're a psychopath." – Highlighting the necessity of empathy in justice. "You need to support those people because dealing with such a tragedy is so enormously difficult." – Howard on supporting crime victims. "The Santa ethos has led my life the way it is." – Howard expressing how his education and upbringing shaped his values. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

4. 

   12 Oct 2025

   Monica Attard on Truth, Courage, and Change

   Monica Attard is a renowned Australian journalist celebrated for her work with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) as a foreign correspondent in Russia during the collapse of the Soviet Union, a tenure that earned her international recognition and the prestigious Gold Walkley Award. With a journalism career spanning more than four decades, she has been acknowledged with the Order of Australia Medal for her contributions to journalism. Currently, Monica serves as the head of journalism at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), where she influences the next generation of journalists, focusing on ethics, truth-telling, and public accountability. Key Takeaways: Monica Attard's career was shaped significantly by her experiences as a foreign correspondent in Russia, particularly during the Soviet Union's collapse. The episode highlights the challenges journalists face in maintaining impartiality amidst a shifting media landscape and digital transformation. Monica emphasises the potential of young journalists to make meaningful impacts in the industry, provided they adhere to foundational ethics and objectivity. The discussion underscores the evolving nature of journalism, with emerging voices often blending advocacy with traditional reporting. Monica shares her personal journey and the influence of her educational background at Santa Sabina College on her career and ethical standards. Notable Quotes: "It's one of those things where you just never live it down and you regret forevermore that it was ever publicly known." - Monica Attard "The west didn't handle the collapse particularly well. And as a result, you know, we have Vladimir Putin motivated by grievance with the way the west has treated Russia." - Monica Attard "Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the geopolitics of the world has been kind of spun on its head." - Monica Attard "In my view, journalism that's not impartial is not journalism." - Monica Attard "I never, ever questioned my place in leadership. You know, I never did. I just never did." - Monica Attard Resources: Monica Attard's profile at the University of Technology Sydney: UTS Journalism (https://profiles.uts.edu.au/Monica.Attard) Santa Sabina College Ex Students Association: Santa Sabina College (https://www.ssc.nsw.edu.au/) For any thoughts, comments and suggestions regarding this episode, feel free to contact us at santaexstudents@gmail.com. (mailto:santaexstudents@gmail.com) Join the conversation on Santa Sabina College Alumni Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/santasabinacollegealumni/). See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

5. 

   21 Sept 2025

   Carolee Williamson's Adventures - Santa Sabina to Washington

   About the Guest: Carolee Williamson swapped corporate finance at Ernst & Young for one of the world's toughest gigs—U.S. diplomacy in crisis zones. Over 15 years, she's navigated complex assignments across Kabul, Beirut, Jerusalem, Washington, Kuwait, and Ho Chi Minh City, leading teams through genuine life-or-death situations. What makes Carolee's story compelling isn't just her diplomatic achievements—it's her advocacy for mental health and community building while serving American foreign policy interests in some of the planet's most challenging environments. Key Takeaways: Carolee Williamson emphasises the importance of intention and active choice in career progression, focusing on skills that are transferable globally. Her transition from corporate finance to diplomacy was driven by a desire to make a global impact and contribute to meaningful change. Carolee shares profound insights into building community and fostering inclusivity, especially while living abroad. The conversation highlights the crucial role of language skills in immersion and understanding cultural nuances, enhancing diplomatic relations. Carolee advocates for mental health awareness, emphasising personal care routines and institutional changes to support wellbeing in high-stress environments. Notable Quotes: "I like to make every day matter. Every day we're here, we're doing something, we're not just existing." "When you move around so often, you really have to not be willing to say no to an invitation." "It's important when you're doing that to still create a safe space for people." "You've got to go out and try and meet people. You can't just sit in your house alone." "You can't understand a culture unless you've at least understood a little bit of the language." For any thoughts, comments and suggestions regarding this episode, feel free to contact us at santaexstudents@gmail.com. (mailto:santaexstudents@gmail.com) Join the conversation on Santa Sabina College Alumni Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/santasabinacollegealumni/). See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

6. 

   7 Sept 2025

   International Women's Day 2025

   About the Guests: Paula Duncan AM: An acclaimed Australian actress, Paula Duncan has received multiple Logie Awards and an Order of Australia for her contributions to acting and charity work. She is also an ambassador for women's health and actively involved in organizations supporting people with disabilities. Bridget Clark: Accomplished rugby player, Bridget Clark is a prominent member of the Australian national Rugby Sevens team and an Olympian who competed in the Paris 2024 games. Her commitment to the sport exemplifies dedication and perseverance. Amy Rickson: Currently the Chief People Officer at Hub24 Limited, Amy Rickson specializes in human resources with a focus on gender equality in the workplace. She speaks passionately about bridging inequality and supporting women in their careers. Annabelle Cowley: A software engineer at Canva and diversity and inclusion advocate at UTS, Annabelle Cowley is invested in making the tech industry more inclusive and equitable for women and minorities. Episode Summary: This episode of "Exceptional," we dive into Santa Sabina College's International Women's Day event "March Forward"—a powerful panel showcasing how Old Girls are smashing barriers across Australia. Paula Duncan kicks things off with her no-nonsense approach to resilience, sharing how she pushes through when the pressure's on. Then Bridget Clark takes us from local rugby fields straight to Olympic glory. Amy Rickson and Annabelle Cowley tackle the workplace challenges women face daily. They address bias issues plaguing Australia's tech industry or how these systemic problems block career advancement. Instead, they share practical strategies for navigating these challenges while pushing for genuine diversity and inclusion. Key Takeaways: Resilience in Action: Paula Duncan emphasizes the importance of not giving up and trusting your instincts, as demonstrated through her personal and professional experiences. Perseverance in Sports: Bridget Clark testifies to the power of hard work and perseverance, sharing her journey from a student at Santa Sabina to an Olympic rugby player. Gender Equality: Amy Rickson discusses the barriers in workplaces regarding gender equality and highlights systemic biases and the solutions being implemented to promote diversity. Financial Independence: Guests stress the importance of financial literacy and independence for young women, encouraging education and self-advocacy. Supportive Community: The episode underscores the importance of community, mentorship, and the role of women's networks in advancing personal and professional growth. Notable Quotes: Paula Duncan: "Persistency, endurance, bravery, and courage are strong elements in the areas I've worked in." Bridget Clark: "The hard work really does pay off; perseverance really paid off." Amy Rickson: "Unconscious bias is the number one challenge—it exists everywhere, and understanding it is crucial." Annabelle Cowley: "Spend your time where you're happiest; enjoy what's in front of you right now." Paula Duncan: "Trust your instincts more—mentally, physically, and emotionally." For any thoughts, comments and suggestions regarding this episode, feel free to contact us at santaexstudents@gmail.com. (mailto:santaexstudents@gmail.com) Join the conversation on Santa Sabina College Alumni Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/santasabinacollegealumni/). See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

7. 

   24 Aug 2025

   Jane Sulis OAM - Truth, Compassion and Community

   Jane Sulis is a distinguished alumna of Santa Sabina College and a former college vice captain. With a career dedicated to education and social justice, Jane has made significant contributions as a teacher, mentor, and community advocate. Her commitment to the Dominican values of truth, compassion, and service has been recognized with the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2023 for her relentless service to the community. Her work encompasses various initiatives, from supporting homeless services to aiding refugee students, revealing a deep-rooted passion for making a positive impact. Key Takeaways: Jane Sulis underscores the importance of community, compassion, and truth, reflecting on how these values, learned at Santa Sabina College, shaped her career and personal life. The power of debate and public speaking as critical tools for confidence and leadership, enriching Jane's role as an educator and advocate. Faith as a guiding principle: Jane shares how her Christian beliefs inform her commitment to social justice and aid her during personal hardships. Jane’s journey exemplifies how education goes beyond academics, fostering a humanitarian spirit and a sense of purpose. A call to action: Jane's experiences highlight that while one person cannot change the world, they can make a difference in their community and beyond. Notable Quotes: "You teach what you are." This profound statement influenced Jane’s approach to education, emphasising authenticity and integrity. "I had a very simplistic faith, but that's probably where it started to grow." "You can't help everybody, but you can help somebody, so get on with the ones you can help." "I'd like to think it's validated somewhere along the way. If I could be remembered as a good teacher, that would tick a box too." For any thoughts, comments and suggestions regarding this episode, feel free to contact us at santaexstudents@gmail.com. (mailto:santaexstudents@gmail.com) Join the conversation on Santa Sabina College Alumni Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/santasabinacollegealumni/). See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

8. 

   10 Aug 2025

   Siobhan Toohill - Sustainability and Social Impact

   If you need support after listening to this episode you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Siobhan Toohill is a pioneering leader in corporate sustainability and social impact. As the first Chief Sustainability Officer at Westpac, she was instrumental in shaping the bank's climate strategy, human rights initiatives, and purpose-led leadership. A recipient of the prestigious Women in Leadership Award in the banking sector, Toohill has always been at the forefront of sustainable policy design and implementation. She continues to lead in the arenas of nature governance and sustainable finance, contributing globally to the evolution of sustainable banking practices. Key Takeaways: Siobhan Toohill emphasises the significance of leading with values and knowing when to transition roles after impactful contributions. Her work at Westpac highlights the shift from sustainability being a niche area to integral to everyday banking operations. Through global initiatives, Toohill influenced the financial sector, advocating for environmental and human rights policies in banking. Reflecting on her education at Santa Sabina College, she credits its strong values and critical thinking focus as influential in her career. Toohill's insights into effective leadership stress vulnerability, decisiveness, and the empowerment of others to foster change. Notable Quotes: "These decisions are so hard... what got me here won't get me there and knowing that you need to change." "I think if I'm hurting, I'm learning, and I really hurt through that experience, but I learned so much." "To really lift sustainability, lift its profile within the organisation, confidence around the business to make some of the big commitments…was a substantive moment." "And I think the difficult moments are the most critical moments for change." "It's so important to find great leaders to work for." For any thoughts, comments and suggestions regarding this episode, feel free to contact us at santaexstudents@gmail.com. (mailto:santaexstudents@gmail.com) Join the conversation on Santa Sabina College Alumni Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/santasabinacollegealumni/). See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

9. 

   28 Jul 2025

   Georgina Long AO - Courage and Science for Change

   Season 2 of Exceptional opens with Professor Georgina Long — Australian of the Year and proud Santa Sabina College alumna. We return to her 2024 Speech Night Address, as one of the world’s leading melanoma researchers, Georgina shares the power of science and imploring us to be curious. This conversation marks the beginning of a season devoted to legacy in action — and Georgina’s journey is an inspiring start. About the Guest: Georgina Long is a distinguished medical oncologist and a professor specialising in Translational Research Medical Oncology at the University of Sydney. As the co-medical director of the Melanoma Institute Australia, she has been instrumental in advancing melanoma treatment, saving countless lives through her innovative research. Her dedication to improving the prognosis for cancer patients has earned her the title of Australian of the Year, alongside her colleague Richard. Georgina's work is characterised by her ambition, optimism, and drive to push the boundaries of medical science. Episode Summary: Georgina Long delivers an inspiring keynote address at the Santa Sabina College, sharing her journey from a curious child with a passion for learning to a world-renowned expert in melanoma research. Georgina highlights the transformative impact of her mentors and educators, who inspired her to explore new horizons and think outside the box. Her career in medical research has been marked by significant achievements, including pioneering treatments for melanoma and brain cancer. Key Takeaways: Understanding and respecting the knowledge of First Nations people can provide valuable insights into sustainability. Curiosity, mentorship, and thinking outside the box are crucial in driving scientific innovation and building a successful career. Melanoma, largely caused by UV sun exposure, is a serious health threat; raising awareness is essential in saving lives. Innovation in cancer treatment requires boldness, bravery, and meticulous scientific processes to ensure success and breakthroughs. The story of the successful treatment of a colleague's aggressive brain cancer illustrates the potential of novel drug therapies. Notable Quotes: "I realised that I can do things if I apply myself. Nothing is really too hard." "The extraordinary is only achieved when we think big and we think outside the box." "Science happens with incremental failures, incremental successes." "It takes boldness, it takes bravery and a lot of energy to challenge the status quo." "Science will give you the courage to change the world." For any thoughts, comments and suggestions regarding this episode, feel free to contact us at santaexstudents@gmail.com. (mailto:santaexstudents@gmail.com) Join the conversation on Santa Sabina College Alumni Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/santasabinacollegealumni/). See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

10. 

    10 Apr 2024

    Kim Parer

    Kim Parer (Mulcahy) looks back on the life and memories of her four siblings, Jodie, Glen, Stuart and Dean who lost their lives way too young. Equal parts grief and happiness, this is a story of perseverance, and finding light amongst the challenges given to her. Above all, this is a story of love and family. If you need support after listening to this episode you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

11. 

    18 Jul 2023

    Professor Helen Beange

    Professor Helen Beange is an Order of Australia Medal recipient for her work into developmental disability medicine. We chat about attending Sydney University during World War II, how she transitioned back to work after having children and her pioneering medical research of people with intellectual disabilities in Australia. Helen is 97 and widowed. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

12. 

    29 Jul 2022

    Ann Maree Mulders

    Ann Maree Mulders is an ovarian cancer survivor. She listened to her body when no one else did and became her own advocate in what was a hard journey through surgery, treatment and healing. She now advocates for others as an Ovarian Cancer Australia ambassador. This is her story, through cancer and out the other side. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

13. 

    19 May 2022

    Melanie Evans | CEO of ING Australia

    Melanie Evans, CEO of ING Australia shares her journey from being a 17 year old banking cadet to the Australian CEO of a global company. We discuss her purpose and passion for creating future change, what makes a good leader and a progressive work place. She’ll also share her lived experience around asking for parental leave, leading a workforce through covid and why she speaks up for bigger issues. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

14. 

    8 Mar 2022

    Sr Judith Lawson OP

    Ex-Student, former College Principal and Dominican sister, Sr Judy Lawson talks candidly about some lesser known features of her life: from studying at Boston College to election monitoring for the 1994 South African election to the establishment of Mary Bailey house and the work she’s doing in her “non-retirement” to aid religious Congregations who are facing the prospect of coming to a natural end. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

Inside a recent episode

Women in Family Law: Boundaries and Quiet Courage | Monica Serci

Published 6 Oct 2026 · Transcript excerpt

[…] If you have members in your family or broader community potentially going through it, it's a very isolating experience for many. bring them in, remind them about the joys of life and all the great things they were before that moment to remember why they just have to go through this process. And that's all it can be. It just has to be a process. It doesn't need to be a defining moment in their lives. But when people are hurting, they can lose the wood for the trees. And that's deeply human. It's nothing wrong with them. It's just a deeply human thing. And I think the more compassion we show in those spaces, the faster the tough part is can become, yeah, a moment of empowerment and courage instead of, you know, further destruction or harm. […]

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5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

4.8 / 5

18 ratings

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