QUT Real Talk

About QUT Real Talk

Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Your hosts are Sarah Winkleman and Melanie Rolfe. Sarah is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. Mel is a current PhD student at QUT a well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health.

Publisher

QUT

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

3 Apr 2025

Latest episode

6 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Sept 2026

   Mind & Medicine: How Your GP Can Help

   Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. In this episode, Sarah chats with General Practitioner Dr Jordan from QUT Medical Centre about mental health from a medical perspective. Jordan shares some great insights on how some medications work, important lifestyle factors. It cannot be stressed enough how beneficial a GP can be for both physical and mental health. QUT students and the general public can access the QUT Medical Centres: QUT Medical Centres   GP-X400 and KG-U240, 8.30am - 5pm, Monday - Friday (07) 3138 3161 If you need urgent mental health support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or the QLD Health Mental Health Line on 13MH CALL. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. Resources mentioned: Mood Gym: https://www.moodgym.com.au/ Black Dog Institute: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2. 

   2 Aug 2026

   Art as Therapy: Your audio-permission-slip to create something imperfect

   Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. Melanie Rolfe is a current PhD student at QUT a well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health. In this episode, Sarah and Mel chat with Art Therapist Kirsty Mitchell about the benefits of creating and observing art, and using art to process difficult life events and emotions. We dive into the neuroscience behind why art is so good our mental health, and share practical exercises and techniques to help you tap into your creativity. If you need urgent mental health support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or the QLD Health Mental Health Line on 13MH CALL. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. Find an Art Therapist: FIND A THERAPIST NeuroGraphica Classes: https://www.youtube.com/@AnnaRomanenko1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3. 

   10 May 2026

   Study hacks for Neurodivergent Students (and Neurotypicals)

   Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. In this episode, Sarah chats with Senior Disability Advisors Amy and Guy about how universities can best support accessibility for Neurodivergent students. They share really practical and useful tips that will help both neurodivergent and neurotypical students get on top of their study. (Skip to 17 minutes if you’re only interested in the resources and study hacks). QUT Students with a disability, injury or health condition can access support and information here: Studying with a disability, injury or health condition - Student - QUT Portal If you need urgent mental health support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or the QLD Health Mental Health Line on 13MH CALL. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. Resources mentioned: What-is-neurodiversity.pdf Genio Notes - Student - QUT Portal Study support and workshops - Student - QUT Portal Student success coaching - Student - QUT Portal Forest - Stay focused, be present Home - Goblin Tools Assignment calculator - Student - QUT Portal Google NotebookLM | AI Research Tool & Thinking Partner – use with caution, always fact check AI content Eisenhower Matrix.pdf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4. 

   12 Apr 2026

   Cultural identity, Spirituality, and the QUT Chaplaincy Service

   Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. Melanie Rolfe is a current PhD student at QUT a well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health. In this episode, Sarah and Mel chat with QUT chaplain Joseph to answer common questions about the chaplaincy services available, and the importance of cultural identity, spirituality, and community for our wellbeing. Information about the Chaplaincy service and events can be found here: Spiritual wellbeing - Student - QUT Portal CHAT program website: Chat Project | Cultural Hearing Asking Telling SolveSquad: https://www.solvesquad.co/ If you need urgent mental health support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or the QLD Health Mental Health Line on 13MH CALL. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

5. 

   1 Mar 2026

   Financial Basics for Students

   Clinical Psychologist Sarah Winkleman and PhD student Melanie Rolfe interview social worker Allie about managing student financial stress and building essential budgeting skills.

6. 

   19 Oct 2025

   Episode 12 - From Service to Study: Interview with ADF Veterans

   Clinical Psychologist Sarah Winkleman interviews ADF veterans Sam and Trent about transitioning from military service to academic life at QUT, highlighting available support services.

7. 

   15 Jul 2025

   Episode 11 - How to make the most of your first semester at Uni (LIVE from Welcome Week)

   Clinical Psychologist Sarah Winkleman and PhD student Melanie Rolfe discuss available university services and provide advice to new students for succeeding in their first semester with Stacey, Allie, Glen, and Guy in this interview.

8. 

   16 Jun 2025

   Episode 10 – Deep Dive into Mindfulness with Hui

   Clinical Psychologist Hui discusses mindfulness with Sarah Winkleman and Melanie Rolfe, debunking myths and offering practical benefits for managing stress, in this interview episode.

9. 

   10 Jun 2025

   Episode 9 – More than food: Understanding Eating Disorders with Carmel Fleming

   Carmel Fleming, PhD, discusses the multifaceted nature of eating disorders, addressing myths, signs, and support options, in a conversation with Sarah Winkleman and Melanie Rolfe, offering guidance for individuals and loved ones in this interview.

10. 

    26 May 2025

    Episode 8 - Sleep

    Clinical Psychologist Sarah Winkleman and PhD student Melanie Rolfe explore the biological processes behind sleep and offer practical tips for improving sleep habits in this interview episode.

11. 

    19 May 2025

    Episode 7 – Juggling life as a mature age student: Conversation with Kristi

    Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. Melanie Rolfe is a current PhD student at QUT a well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health. Recommendations – Mel recommends the Circle of Security as a parenting approach. Sarah recommends visiting your local library, and the Brisbane City Council Library App. In this episode, Sarah and Mel are joined by Kristi Manger to chat about the decision to return to Uni later in life and how this seems to be a growing trend. They discuss how their approach to study differs as a mature student, the ongoing journey to find the right balance between study and other commitments, and the importance of having support around you. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. This podcast touches on topics relating to mental health and is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the valuable experience of personalised counselling support. If you need urgent help, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12. 

    12 May 2025

    Episode 6 – Vicarious Trauma

    Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. Melanie Rolfe is a current PhD student at QUT a well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health. Recommendations – Mel recommends revisiting an old hobby that brought joy (in her case, tap dancing!). Sarah recommends a cozy game for relaxation. Bonus Book Recommendations: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, and The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris. In this episode, Sarah and Mel discuss what vicarious trauma is, and how we can be particularly vulnerable to it early career. They open up about their experiences with vicarious trauma and share their tips on how to overcome it. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. This podcast touches on topics relating to mental health and is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the valuable experience of personalised counselling support. If you need urgent help, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

13. 

    6 May 2025

    Episode 5 - Living and Studying in Brisbane as an International Student: Conversation with Rayane

    Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. In this episode, Sarah speaks to PhD student Rayane El Masri about her experiences arriving in Brisbane, cultural differences, coping with homesickness, and all the services on offer to international students at QUT. An informative conversation for both international and local students! Resources for International Students (links will only work for QUT enrolled students): International student support Find a club or project - Student - QUT Portal Spiritual wellbeing - Student - QUT Portal Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. This podcast touches on topics relating to mental health and is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the valuable experience of personalised counselling support. If you need urgent help, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

14. 

    29 Apr 2025

    Episode 4 - The New Addiction (Social Media)

    Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. Melanie Rolfe is a current PhD student at QUT a well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health. Recommendations – Sarah recommends a new hobby, paint by numbers. It’s helped her to challenge ideas about her own creativity and perfectionism, and it keeps her off her phone! Mel recommends habit tracking on the fridge to keep on top of life admin and achieve goals. In this episode, Sarah and Mel discuss how pervasive social media is in our lives today, which can have both positive and negative consequences. They unpack a few theories as to why we all seem to be addicted to our phones and social media, and whether it’s helpful to call it an addiction? Sarah and Mel also give some helpful tips on how to have a more balanced approach to social media in our lives. Handy links: · Online safety | eSafety Commissioner · Screen Zen App -  BestScreen Time App for Android & iPhone – Download Free · One Sec App -  one sec | stopmindless scrolling – scientifically This podcast touches on topics relating to mental health and is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the valuable experience of personalised counselling support. If you need urgent help, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

15. 

    3 Apr 2025

    Episode 3 - Procrastination

    Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. Melanie Rolfe is a current PhD student at QUT a well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health. Recommendations – Mel recommends nature dates with family and friends. Mel also reveals she has done a ted talk on the benefits of nature play! Sarah recommends ‘Untamed’ by Glennon Doyle. Sarah is not a Glennon ‘stan’ but found the messages about freedom and gender fascinating. In this episode, Sarah and Mel discuss an experience we’re all familiar with, procrastination.  Procrastination is complicated to understand and define. Sarah and Mel share their personal experiences with procrastination and what has helped them to overcome it. People might procrastinate for all different reasons, and it’s important to understand what your reason is to know how to overcome it. Sarah and Mel talk about some strategies to increase motivation, manage your time, and set achievable goals and rewards. This podcast touches on topics relating to mental health and is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the valuable experience of personalised counselling support. If you need urgent help, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. Further reading: · Procrastination Why We Procrastinate | Psychology Today Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

16. 

    3 Apr 2025

    Episode 2 - Do I have ADHD?

    Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. In each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. Melanie Rolfe is a current PhD student at QUT as well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health. Recommendations – Mel recommends yoga hammocks for sensory regulation and relaxation. Sarah recommends Netflix series ‘Man on the Inside’ for a heartwarming and uplifting watch. The number of Australians on ADHD medication surged by almost 300 per cent in ten years, rising to 470,000 people in 2022-2023. (PBS data). In this episode, Sarah and Mel unpack some of the popular messaging around ADHD online, discuss neurodiversity and the neurodiversity affirming approach. We answer common questions about ADHD – why does everyone seem to have it now? What even is ADHD and how does it differ from ‘normal’ inattention or disorganization? How does it present differently in women and girls? How can we find the right strategies that work for our individual brains? This podcast touches on topics relating to mental health and is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the valuable experience of personalised counselling support. If you need urgent help, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. Further reading: · ADHD diagnoses on the rise as awareness grows | APS · ADHD Symptoms in Women: Misunderstood, Overlooked, Undertreated · Neurodiversity | Psychology Today Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

17. 

    3 Apr 2025

    Episode 1 - Perfectionism

    Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together. Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services. Melanie Rolfe is a current PhD student at QUT as well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health. Recommendations – Mel recommends stand-up paddle boarding as a fun new way to explore and get outdoors. Sarah recommends going to the beach and feeling the sun and salt water. In this episode, Sarah and Mel discuss how to recognise if you may be a perfectionist, the costs and benefits, and how to break the cycle if perfectionism is having a negative impact on your life. This podcast touches on topics relating to mental health and is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the valuable experience of personalised counselling support. If you need urgent help, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000. Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019. Further reading: · Perfectionism| Psychology Today · The destructiveness and public health significance of socially prescribed perfectionism: A review, analysis, and conceptual extension · Multidimensional Perfectionism Turns 30: A Review of Known Knowns and Known Unknowns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who has been a guest on QUT Real Talk

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Allie
• Sam
• Trent
• Hui
• Carmel Fleming

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 9 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

6

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32