Engaging Conversations | Inspiring Dialogue, Empowering Communities
Welcome to Engaging Conversations, the podcast that connects you with the pulse of our local communities.
Hosted by Leon Goltsman, Co-Founder of Ecolibrium Headquarters (EcoHQ), each episode invites you on an inspiring journey into the stories that shape and uplift our neighbourhoods.
From visionary leaders and industry experts to everyday heroes making a difference, Engaging Conversations offers an exclusive look into our society’s diverse and dynamic fabric. This podcast is your gateway to broadening your perspective, building meaningful connections, and being inspired.
Please note that the views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or EcoHQ. The discussions in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional, financial, medical, or legal advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek independent professional advice before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.
Tune in, join the conversation, and discover the people, places, and purpose driving positive change.
Episodes
27 episodes
#27 - Solar Sense: Maximisng Your Energy Potential with Samuel Culhaci
Solar power isn't just for sunny summer days—it's a year-round investment that transforms your roof into your personal power plant. Samuel Culhaci, a trusted expert from DNR Air Conditioning and Electrical, breaks down the surprising realities ...
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35:20
#26 - Leading with Purpose: How to Attract, Engage, and Retain Talent in Business with Trudy MacDonald
Transforming workplace culture isn't about quick fixes but fundamentally understanding what drives human performance. Trudy MacDonald, award-winning global keynote speaker and founder of Talent Code HR, brings over two decades of organisational...
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Episode 26
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43:48
#25 - Service Above Self: A Legacy of Community Impact with Vincent De Luca OAM
Vincent De Luca OAM doesn't just talk about community service—he embodies it. From starting advocacy work at just nine years old to becoming one of Australia's youngest Order of Australia Medal recipients, his journey reveals what happens when ...
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Episode 25
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39:28
#24 - Words That Wound: How Everyday Language Shapes Gender Respect with Rachael Natoli
What we say reveals who we are—especially when we think no one's listening.Rachael Natoli, founder of Lokahi Foundation, brings raw honesty and practical wisdom to our conversation about the language that shapes attitudes toward women a...
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Episode 24
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36:39
#23 - How One Op Shop Gave Back $1 Million—and Changed Lives Forever with Theo Van Bezouwen
The Hillview Op Shop demonstrates how a social enterprise can harness community spirit to create a remarkable impact by transforming donated goods into life-changing community initiatives. Manager Theo Van Bezouwen shares the inspiring evolutio...
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Episode 23
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23:05
#22 - Beyond The Paycheck: How Hunter Adults Financial Collaborative Transforms Lives
When someone finds meaningful employment, they gain more than a paycheck—they discover dignity, purpose, and the ability to contribute to their community. This transformative journey sits at the heart of Hunter Adults Financial Collaborative (H...
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Episode 22
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29:33
#21 - Empowering Communities through Ethical Investment with Niaz Cannoth
Step into the world of ethical finance with our guest, Niaz Cannoth, whose remarkable journey reflects how financial investments can spark real change in communities. From his beginnings in Australia to becoming a leader in NDIS accommodation p...
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Episode 21
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31:09
#20 - From Bondi to the World Embracing Ocean Conservation with Anita Kolni
What drives someone to transform a personal passion into a movement with global impact? Join us as Anita Kolni, the visionary founder of the Ocean Lovers Festival, reveals how her commitment to ocean conservation inspired the creation of a vibr...
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32:52
#19 - From Vision to Reality: Inspiring Global Change with Julian (Jolly) Day
Discover the incredible journey of Julian (Jolly) Day, the visionary behind the Consensus Awards, as he shares his insights into innovation. These awards have spotlighted transformative technologies with a unique blend of rigour and support for...
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Episode 19
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34:06
#18 - Uniting for Melanoma Awareness Through Small Actions with Claudia Tolhurst
Claudia Tolhurst's journey from melanoma survivor to passionate advocate with the Hunter Melanoma Foundation is an inspiring tale of resilience and purpose. Claudia takes us through her personal story and highlights the urgency of raising aware...
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Episode 18
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19:41
#17 - Empowering Hearts: Astrid Hocking’s Impactful Journey in Child Protection and Community Building
Astrid Hocking, the inspirational powerhouse of the not-for-profit world, shares her incredible journey and insights from two decades of empowering vulnerable children. Astrid has become a beacon of hope for local and international communities ...
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Episode 17
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31:36
#16 - Nourishing Communities: The Transformative Journey of Our Big Kitchen (OBK) with Rabbi Dr Dovid Slavin
Rabbi Dr. Dovid Slavin and his wife, Laya, transformed a simple idea into a heartwarming reality that feeds thousands. From Leah's journey from hairdresser to a beacon of hope for women undergoing chemotherapy to the establishment of Our Big Ki...
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Episode 16
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20:17
#15 - A Festive Wrap-Up and a Look Ahead to 2025
Claudia Tolhurst returns to our spotlight with transformative insights into melanoma prevention, shedding light on how early detection can lead to life-saving recoveries. Her expertise has not only sparked widespread conversation but is instrum...
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Episode 15
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4:24
#14 - Melanoma Awareness: Understanding and Protecting Your Skin with Claudia Tolhurst
Uncover the alarming truth behind melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, in our compelling conversation with Claudia Tolhurst, Executive Officer at the Hunter Melanoma Foundation. Join us as we shine a light on why melanoma is referred to...
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Episode 14
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33:05
#13 - The Automation Advantage: Reclaiming Time and Redefining Work with Brad Woollett
Ever wondered how artificial intelligence can transform your workplace and give you back precious time? Join us as we chat with Brad Woollett, CEO of Definiti, on Newcastle’s sunny Honeysuckle foreshore.Brad reveals how Definiti i...
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Episode 13
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25:39
#12 - Empowering Voices: Wendi's Journey from Banking to Disability Advocacy
Discover the inspiring journey of Wendi Czislowski, a passionate advocate for people with disabilities. She shares her remarkable transition from the world of banking to the heart of disability support. Wendi opens up about the transformative p...
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Episode 12
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30:24
#11 - Driving Regional Prosperity Through Targeted Strategies with Robert Scotto
Unlock the secrets of regional marketing success with Robert Scotto, the mastermind behind Retail Media Hub. Discover how targeted marketing can be a game-changer for regional businesses, boosting visibility, sales, and job creation in areas li...
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Episode 11
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23:22
#10 - Celebrating Genuine Connections and Inspiring Change
Ever wondered what makes a conversation genuinely engaging? Journey with me, Leon Goltsman, as we celebrate a special milestone—the 10th episode of Engaging Conversations. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on the art of listening and the p...
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Episode 10
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5:35
#9 - Crafting New Paths in Community Healthcare with John Jones
Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of John Jones, a former aspiring rugby league player turned successful pharmacist and dietitian in Newcastle, New South Wales. John's path from sports to healthcare reveals the incredible impact of pa...
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Episode 9
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19:04
#8 - Electric Dreams and Community Themes with Lake Macquarie's "Guru" Gary McCleay
What does building a successful business grounded in genuine community spirit take? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Gary McCleay, a well-respected electrician from Lake Macquarie whose career journey began in the most unexpected of p...
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Episode 8
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24:17
#7 - Enhancing Local Ties Through Digital Innovation with Mitch Toner
Curious about how technology can reshape your local business landscape? Join me, Leon Goltsman, and our enlightening guest, Mitch Toner of Elaris Technologies, as we unlock the secrets to leveraging tech for community growth and personal connec...
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Episode 7
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26:52
#6 - Mastering Personal Finance and Credit Management with Erica Voelkel
Want to unlock the secrets of financial stability and independence? Join us for an insightful conversation with Erica Voelkel from LJ Hooker, where she demystifies the world of credit scores and their profound impact on our financial lives. Eri...
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Episode 6
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53:58
#5 - Building Thriving Workplaces: HR Insights with Danielle Howe
In this episode of Engaging Conversations, host Leon Goltsman sits down with HR expert Danielle Howe, who brings over 25 years of experience. Together, they unpack the secrets to building a workplace where people thrive.From Da...
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Episode 5
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25:12
#4 - Empowering Local Businesses: Passion, Challenges, and Community Connections
What makes a local business truly thrive? In this episode, we uncover the secrets to business success through an inspiring conversation with Emmanuel Constantinou, President of the Bondi and District Chamber of Commerce and owner of Kwik Kopy B...
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Episode 4
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39:40
#3 - Transforming Parkinson's Care: Advocacy, Empathy, and Community Action
What if you could change the course of Parkinson's disease for thousands of people? Join us on a compelling journey with Mary Kay Walker, CEO of Parkinson's NSW, and Rachel Tanny, Chair of the Board. You'll hear their deeply personal stories, f...
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Episode 3
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49:38