Nothing new under the sun: Marcus Aurelius, student-life and Meditations

During my first university tutorial, over a decade ago, I can still recall the gasps of horror as our Greek History lecturer first introduced us to the idea of ‘stoicism’. ‘It’s basically a preference for pain and hardship over nice things,’ I remember him explaining. ‘Ugh,’ cried one student. ‘Why the hell would you want that?’ complained another. Furrowed brows followed as he tried to explain this ancient philosophy to a room full of young restless minds, glued to the idea of instant gratification. But I suspect there were some in the room who, like myself, understood or ‘felt’ what […]

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Episode 17 – Book Interview: Winners Don’t Cheat

Although I feel slightly indulgent to speak about my new book, I pass the interviewer’s mic to good friend Jordan Shopov. We talk about the lessons in my book, in particular, how an intolerance of your circumstances, developing focus, improving your writing and taking advantage of the unique opportunities Australia offers all conspired to fuel my turnaround. For a copy of the book please visit Connor Court Publishing.

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Episode 15 – Lifeguarding with Luke Ingwersen

For something slightly different, I talk to Gold Coast Lifeguard Luke Ingwersen on the range of roles a lifeguard plays, from local tour guide to first responder. It’s a great discussion on rips, some general water safety, the changing nature of international beach-goers and the challenges of being responsible for public safety in one of the busiest places in the country.

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Episode 14 – Please Keep The Cow And Do The Milking – Australian Federalism

This episode’s title is borrowed from Robert Garran’s satire of the Australia’s State Premiers in 1934. While we oftentimes hear that the States should collect your income tax (the Feds currently do) they historically haven’t been too keen on it. Federalism is hardly a ‘fun’ topic but join Jordan Shopov, Will Witheridge and I as we talk about some of the unique features of our federal system.  

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