Stories of Wonder

About Stories of Wonder

Stories of Wonder platforms and celebrates the real impact Deakin students, alumni, researchers and staff are making in the world, right now. Deakin University CRICOS Provider Code: 00113B

Publisher

Deakin University

Category

education · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

18 Jun 2025

Latest episode

21 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   21 Jul 2026

   Kirsten Diprose’s journalism career: from the ABC to research

   From the ABC to podcasting to research, Kirsten Diprose’s journalism career has been wide-reaching. She revisits it on this episode of Stories of Wonder. Content warning: this episode mentions a distressing news story, but doesn’t go into detail. For support in Australia visit: deakin.edu.au/24hoursupport (http://deakin.edu.au/24hoursupport) or for support in another country visit spotify.com/resources (http://spotify.com/resources) Read more about Kirsten’s story. (https://together.deakin.edu.au/a-farmer-wants-a-podcaster/) Listen to ‘Ducks on the Pond’: ducksonthepond.com.au (http://ducksonthepond.com.au/) Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35dynrdnay8) Click here to view the episode transcript. (https://share.transistor.fm/s/aea910b9/transcript) (00:38) - From 16 to the ABC: a clear goal early (02:52) - Building a pathway into journalism (07:00) - Starting in radio at 15 and learning fast (11:10) - Why career focus mattered early (12:19) - Breaking into the ABC and early wins (17:41) - Handling rejection and building resilience (21:23) - Moving interstate and starting at the ABC (23:34) - Learning fast in regional journalism (28:17) - From city journalist to life on a farm (33:08) - How podcasting is reshaping journalism (40:05) - Redefining success and career paths (46:03) - The future of local news in Australia (55:07) - Why rural voices matter more than ever Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

2. 

   7 Jul 2026

   James Murphy on sustainable marine tourism and employability

   James Murphy explores his career in sustainable and regenerative marine tourism. Plus, we unpack why work integrated learning improves employability. Read more about Murph’s story (https://together.deakin.edu.au/?p=5764&preview=true) Learn more about Southern Ocean Environmental LInk (https://soel.org.au/) Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1Jxt3ggKts) Click here to view the episode transcript. (https://share.transistor.fm/s/d777c91f/transcript) (00:00) - Introduction – James Murphy’s story (00:50) - Early connection to the ocean (01:40) - Finding purpose without feeling like work (02:33) - Starting in marine tourism (03:15) - Discovering dolphins in Victoria (04:01) - Regenerative tourism explained (05:02) - Sustainable vs regenerative tourism (06:19) - How to spot greenwashing in tourism (07:13) - Personal responsibility in sustainability (08:42) - Wild animals vs theme park experiences (10:15) - The ethics of marine wildlife tourism (14:08) - Managing expectations in wildlife tours (15:10) - Tourism for everyone (17:42) - James’ journey to Deakin (18:08) - Gap years and finding direction (20:12) - Why James chose to study business (23:00) - Learning marketing and entrepreneurship (24:04) - Partnering with Deakin and student programs (25:13) - Work Integrated Learning in practice (27:45) - Why hands-on experience matters (30:36) - How Deakin students stand out (31:23) - Finding purpose through lived experience (35:31) - Creating positive environmental impact (36:05) - Marine education and student engagement (38:23) - The importance of giving back (40:09) - Sustainability advice – care and respect (42:01) - Southern Ocean Environmental Link Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

3. 

   23 Jun 2026

   Paralympian Kate Naess on resilience, loss and success

   Paralympian, psychologist, high performance coach, author, and speaker Kate Naess talks mindset, resilience, and responding to change with intention. Content warning: this episode contains discussion of lived experience with disability, mental health, and grief. For support in Australia visit: deakin.edu.au/24hoursupport (http://deakin.edu.au/24hoursupport) or for support in another country visit spotify.com/resources (http://spotify.com/resources) Links: Read more about Kate’s story (https://together.deakin.edu.au/?p=5588&preview=true) Read ‘The Hand You’re Dealt’ (https://katenaess.com/book/) Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuo3rG4Mz_I) Click here to view the episode transcript. (https://share.transistor.fm/s/4f90acbe/transcript) (00:10) - Introducing Kate Naess (01:05) - Core mindset – challenge, learning and no regrets (03:27) - Challenging early limitations (04:26) - Growing up with assumptions and barriers (06:40) - Curiosity, disability and self-belief (08:32) - Adapting through music and sport (10:25) - Early sport – horses and school (13:24) - Studying psychology at Deakin (16:13) - Discovering organisational psychology (17:51) - Why Deakin worked as an athlete (21:15) - Placements and building a career path (22:28) - High performance in sport and leadership (24:26) - Recovery, burnout and workplace performance (26:55) - Balancing study, sport and life experience (31:19) - Grief, uncertainty and rebuilding (34:22) - Running, triathlon and a new path (38:14) - Reaching the Paralympic start line (41:58) - Returning to racing after motherhood (43:53) - Support, funding and being a parent (45:26) - Racing internationally with Henrik (46:50) - COVID, Tokyo and retiring from sport (50:32) - Why Kate wrote The Hand You’re Dealt (53:18) - Quick fire (55:12) - What’s next – book two and leadership work (56:30) - Final reflections Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

4. 

   9 Jun 2026

   Jayden Battey: what is a career in community advocacy and development like?

   Jayden Battey’s career has spanned across community development, advocacy, live-in community housing management, and recently documentary filmmaking. Content warning: this episode contains discussion of homelessness and grief. For support in Australia visit: deakin.edu.au/24hoursupport (http://deakin.edu.au/24hoursupport) or for support in another country visit spotify.com/resources (http://spotify.com/resources) Read more about Jayden’s story (https://together.deakin.edu.au/?p=5524&preview=true) Learn more about Servants Community Housing (https://servants.org.au) Watch ‘Love in the Walls’ on SBS (https://sbs.com.au/ondemand/movie/love-in-the-walls/2488690755695) Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIq13WDtUXY) Click here to view the episode transcript. (https://share.transistor.fm/s/fd8f427a/transcript) (00:07) - Jayden Battey’s story (00:37) - Growing up with curiosity and empathy (01:59) - The drive to create belonging and connection (04:07) - Living with 28 others (09:20) - Redefining connection and community (12:14) - Day-to-day life (13:22) - Balancing work and purpose (14:42) - Studying economics at Deakin (17:11) - Thinking differently about systems and change (19:21) - The real cost of inequality (21:42) - Global systems, poverty, and impact (24:36) - Studying online at Deakin (26:47) - Learning to understand people and worldviews (29:57) - Making meaningful connections while studying (32:02) - Love in the Walls – the documentary (40:49) - Loss, grief, and real life in the community (42:37) - How advocacy really begins (45:57) - Advice for getting started in advocacy (47:19) - Living your values and leading with care (49:08) - Why giving back matters (55:45) - Quick fire questions (52:26) - What’s next for Jayden Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

5. 

   26 May 2026

   Chantella Perera: from WNBL to AFLW to sports marketing and advocacy

   Hear Chantella’s journey, from her WNBL days and subsequent successful AFLW career to her advocacy work in women’s sports and leadership in sport marketing. Content warning: this episode contains discussion of racism, sexism, discrimination, and grief. For support in Australia visit: deakin.edu.au/24hoursupport (http://deakin.edu.au/24hoursupport) or for support in another country visit spotify.com/resources (http://spotify.com/resources) Read more about Chantella’s story. (https://together.deakin.edu.au/?p=5326&preview=true) Learn more about Women Sport Australia: womensportaustralia.com.au (http://womensportaustralia.com.au/) Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pO31wu3jThc) Click here to view the episode transcript. (https://share.transistor.fm/s/ec3c6099/transcript) (00:00) - Chantella Perera’s journey (00:35) - From Sri Lanka to sport – early life and beginnings (02:12) - College basketball and chasing the Opals dream (03:15) - WNBL highlights and lessons from sport (04:46) - Transitioning from basketball to AFLW (06:17) - Life after sport – study, work, and finding direction (08:04) - Discovering AFLW and starting again (12:20) - Purpose and giving back through sport (15:01) - The reality of being an elite athlete in Australia (18:04) - Identity, culture, and representation in sport (26:26) - Raising children and passing on culture (30:48) - Career transition into sport marketing (32:10) - Transferable skills from sport to leadership (34:05) - Building a career at KOJO (44:24) - Major events and creating fan experiences (47:42) - Women Sport Australia and advocacy work (50:54) - Progress and challenges in women’s sport (55:02) - Advice for aspiring athletes (56:44) - Quick fire questions (58:00) - What’s next for Chantella (59:10) - Outro Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

6. 

   6 May 2026

   Shaun Wilson talks business education and co-founding Bondi Sands

   Shaun Wilson knows business. The Bondi Sands co-founder and Deakin Master of Business alum sat down with us to talk about his education and business journey. Read more about Shaun’s story: [article link] Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRsgv9icBuA) (00:00) - From Deakin to Bondi Sands (00:31) - Meet Shaun Wilson (Founder, Bondi Sands) (00:53) - Early entrepreneurial mindset & family influence (01:51) - Lessons from sport, family & growth mindset (03:03) - Leadership journey (05:12) - Managing teams & learning people leadership (05:55) - Why Deakin and postgraduate study? (07:43) - Key business principles still used today (10:58) - Applying Deakin projects to real-world business (12:14) - Building confidence & leadership frameworks (13:43) - What makes a great CEO? (15:59) - Was the degree at Deakin worth it? (16:48) - Why beauty? Choosing the self-tanning market (18:56) - Identifying gaps & building a better product (21:00) - Product innovation: solving real problems (23:20) - From idea to product launch (25:12) - Going all-in: when to leave your day job (28:04) - Getting into retail (31:00) - Major setback: product recall crisis (33:23) - Why honesty & integrity matter in business (37:12) - Lessons from building Bondi Sands (40:01) - What makes a great leader? (41:26) - Sustainability & brand values in action (44:42) - Selling Bondi Sands – how it happened (49:01) - Selling a company: what founders should know (52:24) - The emotional side of selling a business (56:59) - What's next for Shaun Wilson? (58:00) - Sol Rise: investing in the next generation (59:55) - Mentors who shaped Shaun’s career (01:03:42) - Quickfire questions Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

7. 

   10 Mar 2026

   Vice-Chancellor Iain Martin on Social licence and the future of universities

   In this episode, we catch up with Deakin’s Vice-Chancellor, Iain Martin to explore the evolving role of universities. From his beginnings as a medical student in 1980s UK to leading one of Australia's major universities, he explores the delicate balance between education and research, the concept of social licence, and why "ceaseless curiosity" matters more than ever. Read Iain’s white paper on social licence here. (https://www.deakin.edu.au/about-deakin/leadership-and-governance/vice-chancellor/the-social-licence-challenge) Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CC0tKINgT_Y) Click here to view the episode transcript. (https://share.transistor.fm/s/ff7d843f/transcript) (00:00) - Introduction (00:26) - University Experience (03:52) - Trust in Universities (05:21) - Social Licence and University Purpose (07:36) - The Role of Curiosity (08:19) - Evolution of Higher Education (11:50) - Rankings and Research vs Education (14:10) - Balanced Excellence at Deakin (18:04) - White Paper on Social Licence (23:45) - Universities and Difficult Debates (27:48) - Creating Safe Debate Spaces (29:27) - Personal Experience with Change (34:57) - The Evolution of University Research (40:24) - Making Research Accessible (44:05) - Deakin Research Highlights (46:06) - Why Study at University (48:45) - Student Experience and Support (50:16) - Advice for New Students (51:50) - Improvements in Higher Education (55:37) - Quick Fire Questions Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture. Information provided is as known at time of publishing.

8. 

   24 Feb 2026

   Tim Harte’s story: from ballet to a career in research

   From ballet to a career in research and disability advocacy, Tim Harte’s journey is an awe-inspiring one. Tim sits down with us to share his story. Read the article (https://this.deakin.edu.au/study/tim-hartes-story-from-ballet-to-a-career-in-research/) Content Warning This podcast includes discussion of lived experience with disability and discrimination. We encourage you to prioritise your wellbeing. You can pause, skip chapters and stop the episode at any time. A list of support services is available here: https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/student-life-and-services/health-wellbeing-and-safety/safety-security/emergency-and-crisis (https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/student-life-and-services/health-wellbeing-and-safety/safety-security/emergency-and-crisis). For support outside of Australia, please visit http://spotify.com/resources (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0NRenFZMzNkcjRXTnpET0d3N00wcGxTM2ZVZ3xBQ3Jtc0trS3JsWUlLaGJYMFljMkJxTENISGxtS2loNlVQbmZIbUQxWXh5WWpMRkpWTzAwaW9Tbk9Ob3hYZ01sb203ZW0zdzlzaXZna3lFeUc0TVBBMWp2Z09keWJXRldzVnB3ajBLM2w4a1lzbG1vc0FBaEE0MA&q=http%3A%2F%2Fspotify.com%2Fresources&v=3oCyeLT_ggk). Editorial note The taxation treatment of Graduate Research (GR) scholarships is determined by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), not the Research Training Program (RTP) Guidelines or Deakin University. Under current ATO legislation, part-time scholarships are deemed taxable, whereas full-time RTP stipends are generally tax-exempt. This distinction sits outside of Deakin’s policy or discretion. It is something Deakin and the sector have lobbied the government about over many years. It is a genuine challenge for the sector and for all current and prospective candidates who cannot study at a full-time rate. In relation to awards and prizes, eligibility criteria may be set by either external funding bodies or by Deakin, depending on the award. In the case of PhD stipends Deakin’s own award (DUPR) align with the RTP awards (set by Commonwealth legislation) with restricted criteria for enrolment load, duration or progression requirements. We acknowledge that these criteria can have unintended impacts for part-time GR candidates, including students whose enrolment status reflects disability or other equity-related circumstances. Tim’s reflections highlight how these settings can be experienced as barriers in practice. More broadly, we recognise that the legislative and policy frameworks surrounding RTP stipends, enrolment load and taxation can create genuine challenges for some HDR candidates. While Deakin administers scholarships within parameters set by the Commonwealth Government and relevant tax law, these broader settings do not always align well with the diverse circumstances of HDR students. Click here to view the episode transcript. (https://share.transistor.fm/s/40eb0d2f/transcript) (00:00) - Introduction (01:11) - Ballet Journey (05:11) - Onset of Disability (16:00) - Leaving Ballet (18:33) - University Life (21:15) - Academic Achievements (26:00) - PhD Beginnings (27:29) - Research Challenges (33:01) - Structural Energy Storage (37:00) - Life Reset & Advocacy (43:00) - Disability Advocacy Work (46:41) - Speaking at the UN (54:31) - Behind the Scenes (58:00) - Leadership (01:00:02) - Disability & STEM (01:01:14) - Inclusion Matters (01:03:13) - ChemAbility Network (01:06:43) - Power of Community (01:08:55) - Representation (01:10:00) - Barriers in STEM (01:22:55) - Scholarships & Stipends (01:23:13) - Young Australian of the Year Victorian Nomination (01:24:26) - Representation in Awards (01:26:43) - Impact Vision (01:27:19) - Challenging Assumptions (01:31:17) - Desired Change (01:32:14) - Resourcing, power & systemic barriers (01:34:46) - Quickfire Round (01:36:17) - Final Reflections Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture. Information provided is as known at time of publishing.

9. 

   10 Feb 2026

   Jo Weston’s netball career, leadership and advocacy

   In this episode, Jo Weston takes us through her netball journey and unpacks how she balances a thriving sports career with study. Read more about Jo's story. (https://this.deakin.edu.au/career/jo-westons-netball-career-in-australia-and-beyond/) Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 00:57 – The Vixens’ Fairytale Run 03:34 – Handling Setbacks 05:15 – Sending Off Coach Simone McKinnis 07:05 – Jo’s Country Upbringing 09:11 – Starting Netball 11:54 – Netball as a Career 14:52 – Becoming a Professional Athlete 18:00 – Working While Playing for Australia 20:55 – Growing with the Sport 22:52 – Managing the Pressures 24:52 – Advice for Younger Athletes 25:53 – Studying a Master of Communication 29:00 – Study Shaping Leadership 31:41 – Storytelling and the Power of Sport 34:10 – Netball Besties 37:01 – Podcasting 39:34 – Turbulence and Transformation in Netball 40:00 – Negotiating Player Pay & Conditions 44:50 – Leadership Under Pressure 47:04 – The Rise of Women’s Sport 49:50 – Advice for Girls in Sport 50:55 – Looking Ahead to Brisbane 2032 52:00 – Life Beyond Netball 53:57 – Quickfire Round 57:01 – Closing Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWlg1ndgz_0) Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

10. 

    27 Jan 2026

    How student-staff partnership programs are transforming universities

    In this episode, Cassandra Iannucci and Alex Green explore how student support programs are paving the way for more inclusive and equitable university systems. Learn more about Students as Partners here: https://blogs.deakin.edu.au/studentsaspartners (https://blogs.deakin.edu.au/studentsaspartners) Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 00:36 – What is Students as Partners? 01:33 – Cassandra’s Journey 02:57 – Alex’s Story 04:18 – Authentic Partnership in Action 07:01 – Matching Students and Staff 09:32 – Impact Moments 11:00 – Shifting Attitudes in Higher Education 11:34 – How Projects Begin 13:07 – Voices from the Classroom Podcast 14:46 – Students Mentoring Staff 17:15 – Why Equity Matters 18:25 – Avoiding Tokenism 21:06 – Removing Barriers for Students 24:01 – Lived Experience as a Catalyst 25:43 – Career Impact 26:14 – Tangible Changes Across Deakin 33:36 – Normalising Partnership 35:59 – Why Belonging Matters 39:02 – Skills and Confidence 42:00 –Proud Moments 45:36 – What Staff Should Know About Students 47:00 – Closing Reflections Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

11. 

    13 Jan 2026

    Al Fricker on why decolonising education matters

    Al Fricker talks about the power of a great education, why we need to decolonise Australia’s education system, and the importance of Indigenous Australian representation in academia. Read more here. (https://this.deakin.edu.au/this/why-decolonising-education-matters-al-frickers-story/) Content Warning This podcast includes discussion of colonisation, systemic racism, genocide and intergenerational trauma. People who have experienced these may find some of this content difficult. People who have not been exposed to this content before, may find the information confronting and challenging. We encourage you to prioritise your wellbeing. You can pause, skip chapters and stop the episode at any time. A list of support services is available here: https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/student-life-and-services/health-wellbeing-and-safety/safety-security/emergency-and-crisis (https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/student-life-and-services/health-wellbeing-and-safety/safety-security/emergency-and-crisis). For support outside of Australia, please visit http://spotify.com/resources (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0NRenFZMzNkcjRXTnpET0d3N00wcGxTM2ZVZ3xBQ3Jtc0trS3JsWUlLaGJYMFljMkJxTENISGxtS2loNlVQbmZIbUQxWXh5WWpMRkpWTzAwaW9Tbk9Ob3hYZ01sb203ZW0zdzlzaXZna3lFeUc0TVBBMWp2Z09keWJXRldzVnB3ajBLM2w4a1lzbG1vc0FBaEE0MA&q=http%3A%2F%2Fspotify.com%2Fresources&v=3oCyeLT_ggk). Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:54 – Al’s Journey into Education 04:45 – Teaching Prep to Year 12 07:00 – Schooling vs Education 07:49 – Colonial Systems in Classrooms 10:22 – Rethinking ‘Learning Needs’ 12:54 – What Does Decolonising Education Mean? 14:30 – Productivity, Compliance, and Capitalism 16:00 – Flipping the Model of Education 18:34 – Indigenous Knowledges as an Alternative 21:16 – Learning at the Right Time 23:05 – Asking Better Questions of Young People 24:52 – Curriculum Reform and Textbook Publishing 27:12 – Five Ways to Decolonise Classrooms 29:35 – Changing the System from Inside 33:03 – Why Mandating Change Matters 36:44 – Discomfort as Part of the Process 39:08 – Intersectionality and Decolonisation 42:58 – Moving Beyond Guilt to Action 45:02 – Work, Identity, and Colonial Mindsets 48:51 – Teaching with Integrity 49:31 – Being an Indigenous Educator in Colonised Spaces 53:45 – Authenticity and Resilience 57:27 – The Long-Term Mission 01:00:01 – Quick Fire Questions 01:04:59 – Closing Reflections Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

12. 

    30 Dec 2025

    Title: Anna Charalambous on working in the film and TV industry

    As a successful film and TV producer, Anna Charalambous knows what it takes to succeed in the industry. From student films to SXSW premieres, Anna’s journey is our latest Story of Wonder. Watch Spreadsheet Champions now: https://www.spreadsheetchampions.com/ (https://www.spreadsheetchampions.com/) Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 00:55 – Why Film? 02:00 – First Year Challenges 06:15 – Discovering Producing 09:00 – What Does a Producer Do? 16:00 – Problem-Solving on Set 20:00 – Breaking Into the Industry 27:00 – The Documentary Path 33:00 – Making Spreadsheet Champions 40:00 – Filming Around the World 46:00 – Challenges & Restrictions 52:00 – Funding & Festival Journey 58:00 – What Makes a Great Story? 01:03:00 – Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers 01:06:40 – What’s Next for Anna 01:07:50 – Trailer: Spreadsheet Champions Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

13. 

    17 Dec 2025

    Andy Griffiths talks writing, literacy and what it takes to be an author

    Legendary children’s writer and alumnus Andy Griffiths talks about his life and career journey from teacher and punk rocker to one of the most recognised children’s authors in the world. Read more about Andy's story at: https://this.deakin.edu.au/career-and-study/andy-griffiths-answers-what-does-it-take-to-be-an-author (https://this.deakin.edu.au/career-and-study/andy-griffiths-answers-what-does-it-take-to-be-an-author) Learn more about Andy and his most recent work at: https://andygriffiths.com.au/ (https://andygriffiths.com.au/) Chapters 00:00 – Welcome 00:55 – Early Love for Books 02:00 – Discovering Humour & Shock Value 03:50 – Punk Rock & Performance 06:15 – Becoming a Teacher 09:30 – From Classroom to First Books 13:40 – Finding His Voice 18:00 – Persistence 22:00 – The Treehouse Series 29:00 – Child-Centred Fiction 41:00 – Literacy & Imagination 55:00 – Audio Books & Adaptations 01:03:00 – Advice for Parents & Educators 01:08:00 – What’s Next Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

14. 

    17 Oct 2025

    The light at the end of the tunnel - Jaleesa's story

    Jaleesa Basnight’s journey to become a nurse is dotted with its fair share of challenges and triumphs. From raising a family at a young age, to flying thousands of kilometres to study, Jaleesa’s story is one of resilience, growth, and determination. She’s now back in the Torres Strait working as a nurse, with a mission to improve the health outcomes of her community and inspire the next generation. Content Warning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners are advised that this podcast includes conversations about deceased persons. It does not include names, voices or images. This episode contains themes of family violence, First-Nations child removal, mental health challenges, traditional adoption, and grief. People who have experienced themes discussed may find some of this content difficult. Similarly, those who have not been exposed to this content before, may find the information confronting and challenging. We encourage you to prioritise your wellbeing. You can pause, skip chapters and stop the episode at any time. If you or someone you know needs support, we encourage you to seek support through: Deakin Safer Community (https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/safety-and-security/safer-community)(Deakin Students and Staff) Deakin's Employee Wellbeing Support (Deakin Staff) 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 (24/7 support for domestic and family violence) 13YARN (https://www.13yarn.org.au/) (13 92 76) – Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Line Lifeline – 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support) Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 (mental health support) For support outside of Australia, please visit spotify.com/resources (http://spotify.com/resources). Learn more about NIKERI at deakin.edu.au/indigenous-students/study/nikeri-institute Learn more about studying nursing at deakin.edu.au/international-students/choosing-your-degree/nursing Chapters 00:00 Content warning 00:24 Introducing Jaleesa 03:01 Early life 05:33 Growing up 15:05 Pursuing a nursing degree 22:48 Navigating studies and family 27:47 Support and challenges 30:10 Building a support system 31:18 Balancing motherhood and education 35:03 Finding motivation 36:13 The final push to graduation 46:33 Graduation day 53:57 Life after graduation 55:33 Future aspirations

15. 

    14 Aug 2025

    Lucky's journey through science, photography, and education

    In this episode, Lucky shares his unconventional journey through careers in science, photography, and teaching - reflecting on the risks and rewards of embracing change. He shares his experience and challenges growing up in Australia, finding purpose, and his passion for connecting with people as an educator and photographer. Lucky’s story highlights the importance of perseverance, flexibility, and the joy found in embracing change. Learn more about Deakin's education courses here: https://www.deakin.edu.au/study/find-a-course/education-and-teaching (https://www.deakin.edu.au/study/find-a-course/education-and-teaching) Check out Lucky's photography at: https://lakshalperera.com/ (https://lakshalperera.com/) Chapters: 00:00 – Intro: Meet Lucky Perera 02:11 –  Childhood & Belonging 03:58 – Discovering Physics & Passion 05:42 – The Accidental PhD 10:10 – Family, Culture & Expectations 15:18 – Science & Society 18:07 – Becoming a Photographer 23:23 – Connection Through the Camera 25:28 – Pandemic Pause & Career Reflection 30:03 – Teaching & Community Impact 39:45 – Awards & Recognition 47:00 – Embracing Possibility 49:45 – What’s Next for Lucky?

16. 

    31 Jul 2025

    Ameer’s story of education and hope

    In this episode of Stories of Wonder, Ameer shares his journey. Despite significant barriers, he graduated high school twice and earned Deakin University's Sanctuary Scholarship to study Medical Imaging. Ameer reflects on his experiences, the vital role of scholarships in accessing education, and his aspirations in Medicine. Chapters: 00:00 Ameer's Arrival in Australia 00:47 High School Challenges and Achievements 01:23 Life in War-Torn Iraq 03:42 Adjusting to Life in Australia 04:47 Pursuing Higher Education 09:12 The Sanctuary Scholarship 14:40 Balancing Work and Study 19:14 Future Aspirations in Medicine 24:26 Advice for Aspiring Students 25:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

17. 

    16 Jul 2025

    Breaking down barriers and transforming legal education through community law clinics

    In this episode of Stories of Wonder, learn about Michele's journey and how she is transforming legal education through community law clinics, empowering students and supporting underserved local communities. Find out more at https://50years.deakin.edu.au/story/deakin-law-students-break-down-barriers-for-justice/ Please note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.

18. 

    2 Jul 2025

    How Lucas is reweaving the future of textile recycling for a sustainable future

    Deakin Associate Research Fellow Lucas Rosson discusses innovative chemical recycling methods and converting food waste into textiles, offering insights into sustainable material possibilities for the textile industry in this interview.

19. 

    18 Jun 2025

    Kira’s world-leading breakthrough in thunderstorm asthma | Stories of Wonder Episode 01

    Dr. Kira Morgan Hughes discusses her groundbreaking invention that detects pollen in the air within the hour, potentially saving lives from thunderstorm asthma in this interview episode.

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