The Imperfects (Hugh van Cuylenburg, Ryan Shelton & Josh van Cuylenburg)

Last season we met Chanel Contos from Teach Us Consent and we were completely blown away by her courage and the work she's taking on. So much so, that within minutes of Hugh opening and reading Chanel’s book, “Consent Laid Bare”, he had nominated her for Australian of The Year. 

In this snippet from the full episode, Hugh, Ryan, Josh and Chanel discuss the normalised and systemic nature of sexual violence against women and the pervasive issue of rape culture; including what it is and how we can all take steps to dismantle it. 

To learn more about Chanel, her work and the Teach Us Consent campaign, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3QVhlK0

🎧 Things to listen to

• Chanel Contos - https://bit.ly/3RNKpEm 

📖 Things to read

• Consent Laid Bare - https://bit.ly/40Z0Xgh

• To view a version of the 'rape culture pyramid' - https://bit.ly/49XPFgh

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Very few people have experienced Gary Barlow’s level of success and fame. He’s the lead singer of the nineties British pop band Take That, he’s won 6 Ivor Novello Awards for song writing & composing, sold more the 50 million albums and filled stadiums of screaming fans across the world! But despite all this, as we’ve come to learn, he’s one of the nicest, most genuine people going around.

In this episode, Gary shares his experience of rising to such fame, and what happens when he lost it.

He opens up about the devastating burden of jealousy between him and bandmate Robbie Williams, his journey with disordered eating, the loss of his daughter Poppy and the love of his life, the one constant through it all - his wife.

So sit back and pour yourself a cup of vulnerabilitea, this is a big one.

To buy tickets to Take That’s upcoming tour of Australia and New Zealand visit: https://bit.ly/3INExGA.

To watch this full episode on YouTube, follow this link: https://bit.ly/4crzmJT

To hear Ryan’s episode on shame & jealousy, mentioned in this episode, follow this link: https://apple.co/4gWYZEs 

To hear Hamish Blake’s episode on his friendship with Ryan & Hugh, follow this link: https://apple.co/49gV9Tz 

To listen to Gina Chick’s episode, follow this link: https://apple.co/3UKpxQ8 

The Robbie Williams documentary is available on Netflix: https://bit.ly/493WWta.

For film recommendation ‘Salt Burn’ follow this link: https://apple.co/3x3GvQp.

To purchase your own set of Vulnerabilitea House Cards, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3PBFlkR

If you or someone you love is experiencing disordered eating, we recommend the following organisations:

• The Butterfly Foundation https://bit.ly/48YCSZe
• Eating Disorders Families Australia https://bit.ly/3TLU7J5
• Uncovery https://bit.ly/3x4IOCO

This episode with Gary Barlow includes a discussion about disordered eating and a conversation about a child who was delivered still born. If this feels like too much for you right now, please come back to this episode when you're feeling ready.

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you feel like you're on your own side? Are you able to speak to yourself with kindness? Or stick up for yourself in front of others?

That, my friend, is self-compassion and it can be incredibly hard to do. 

Dr Em says, "compassion" in Latin translates to “with suffering.” And SELF-compassion is how we relate, reflect and react when our self is suffering.

In this episode, Dr Em talks about why cultivating a self-compassionate voice is SO DIFFICULT, but how it's also pivotal in getting us through our darkest moments.

And we chat through whether self-compassion needs a re-brand? (Hugh's gunning for self-chop-out, but we're still taking recommendations?) 

To watch this full episode on YouTube, follow this link: https://bit.ly/4gdli8B 

📖Books Josh hasn’t read (but definitely will at some point)

• Against Empathy - Paul Bloom - https://amzn.to/4g53tbR
• Fierce Compassion - Kristin Neff - https://amzn.to/4cJESGI

🎧Things to listen to

• Brooke Blurton - The Path of Most Resilience - https://apple.co/4e8XmkP
• Dr Emily - Who Is Your Inner Critic & Why Is It There? - https://apple.co/3XaFdw9

💻Things to check out

• Kristin Neff’s online resources - https://bit.ly/3XspqKL
• Paul Gilbert’s review on Self-Compassion - https://bit.ly/3AQbJML

Dr Emily is a clinical psychologist and you can find out more about her here - https://bit.ly/4gesuBy

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is not a life sentence, as Rick Davies so eloquently tells Hugh and Josh in this episode of The Imperfix. Best known as Jimmy from the TV show 'Offspring', Rick is unbelievably vulnerable in sharing his story with OCD - from the awkward and painful compulsions, to the relief of a diagnosis at 18 years old.

Here Rick share's how he was inspired by the trailblazing work of Penny Moodie and talks through finding peace and happiness amidst the torment.

🎧 Things to listen to

• Rick’s full Imperfects episode - https://bit.ly/3wZQmHf 
• Penny’s Imperfects episode on OCD - https://bit.ly/459PbkY 

📖 Things to read

• Penny’s book, The Joy Thief: How OCD steals your happiness and how to get it back - bit.ly/3x3IG6T

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Emily is back in the studio with Hugh, Ryan and Josh to deliver a slightly different, but extremely practical episode.

You may not be ready to see a therapist, but even the thought of it can be really overwhelming. Where do you start? Who’s the right therapist for you? What even happens once you’re in a therapy session? And which movies or TV shows get it right?

Dr Em guides us through all of that, which will hopefully help you in your journey to find the right therapy for you. Whether that be now or down the track.


If you are thinking about seeking professional support, but are not sure where to start, try the below resources: 

To learn more about different types of mental health professionals and find services near you, visit Beyond Blue's Find a Mental Health Professional: http://bit.ly/3FMLyGs

To learn more about what is Medicare rebatable, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3nbibXP

To learn more about counselling or to find a counsellor, visit The Australian Counselling Association: https://www.theaca.net.au/

Or, visit The Australian Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists: https://www.arcapregister.com.au/

To learn more about group therapy, visit Open Ground: https://www.openground.com.au/

For self directed workbook recommendations try:

• The Mindful Self-Compassion : http://bit.ly/3Z6nsgE
• The Mindful Way: http://bit.ly/3K3a6xb
• Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life: http://bit.ly/3TBwYat

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2018, Christian O Connell was one of the most successful people in British Radio, he was on top of his world, and then…the panic attacks began. The attacks got so bad and so regular that he couldn’t perform live and it nearly cost him his career.

In this episode, we revisit Christian’s experience, the physical and mental toll of his panic attacks as well as the societal pressures and expectations he felt as a man - his need to appear strong and provide for his family.

And we hear how he eventually sought for help and started rebuilding his life.

To hear the full episode with Christian, follow this link: https://apple.co/4fY1C7W 

You can purchase a copy of Christian’s book here: https://bit.ly/3IKdFqI

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danielle May Laidley was known by a different name for the first 53 years of her life. We are so proud that this episode is a contributing factor to her reclaiming her narrative as a transgender woman.

An extremely talented AFL footballer, Danielle would go on to become a highly respected coach, always keeping within arm’s reach the version of herself which felt most authentic.

Danielle’s story, in its entirety, is so incredibly important that we had to split it over two big and special episodes.

In this first part, we are introduced to phase 1 of her life: the footballer, the husband and the coach and with an addictive personality that caused her to become tough, fierce and obsessed with footy.

Danielle discusses with Hugh, Ryan, and Josh the strict compartmentalisation of the different parts of her life during her AFL career, and the terrifying risks she took to satisfy the cravings to be her authentic self.

You can watch the entire interview (Part One and Part Two) on YouTube, here – https://bit.ly/3FJ8Lw2 

🫖 Other Imperfects episodes mentioned in this episode

• Mick Fanning - Riding The Waves of Loss - https://apple.co/4hNT0RN

📖 Things to read

• Don’t Look Away - Danielle Laidley - https://bit.ly/3XrTkyo

📺 Things to watch

• Revealed - Danielle Laidley: Two Tribes - https://bit.ly/3R8X6ct

🖼️ If you want to join out patreon A Little More Imperfects, go to www.patreon.com/theimperfects

☎ If you need support after listening to this episode, these are a few great places to start:

• QLife - 1800 184 527
• Rainbow Door - 1800 729 367

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s ImperFIX, we revisit an episode from season 2 with Australian BMX racer, world champion and Olympian, Sam Willoughby. In 2016, Sam experienced a life-changing neck injury which left him a tetraplegic.

In this snippet, we hear Sam describe the bike accident that lead to his injury and his incredible journey of recovery. Most importantly, he shares how meeting NASCAR crew chief, Booty Barker, inspired him to live life again.

You can hear the full chat with Sam Willoughby here https://apple.co/4gfVA2L 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every Thursday over 3 million people want to hear what James Clear has to say. They do so in the form of his ‘3-2-1 newsletter’, one of most popular newsletters on the planet. In 2018 James Clear published his book Atomic Habits, a comprehensive, practical guide on how to change your habits and get 1% better every day. And that book has now sold over 15million copies. So you won’t be surprised to hear how excited we were to have Jame Clear as this weeks guest lecturer in The Academy of Imperfection.

In this episode we learn about the importance of habits. Both the good and bad ones. We learn James’s four laws of behaviour change (make it obvious, make it attractive, make is easy, make it satisfying); the value of goals; we discuss Josh, Hugh and Ryan’s own personal history with habit setting; and how small incremental changes to your habits can set you on the path to achieving your goals and ultimately becoming the kind of person you would like to be.

You can purchase James Clear’s best selling book - Atomic Habits here, https://bit.ly/3UKx0in.

If you would like to subscribe to James’ 3-2-1 Newsletter, click here, https://bit.ly/44swR6o.

And you can find James’ habit tracking app ‘Atoms’ here https://bit.ly/4b1Pq41

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Season 5 and oooooooooooh baby, are we excited!!! Yes we are. Why? Because everything’s new BUT everything’s also the same! Y’know? Like when your fish and chip shop does a big renovation and you’re really excited because the shop’s all spiffy and new, but you’re also really excited and relieved that they still have potato cakes and dim sims and prawn toast and all the stuff you liked last year.

So yeah it’s kinda like that. Sort of.

Anyway, hi. We missed you.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As co-host of The Project, Hamish Macdonald has seen and done more than most journalists could ever dream to achieve in their entire career.

Before The Project and a stint hosting ABC’s Q+A program, Hamish worked and reported around the world from war zones to natural disasters, winning a bunch of prestigious awards including a coveted Walkley Award in the process.

But as he discusses with Hugh, Ryan and Josh, he’s also faced bullying throughout his life, whether that be from students during his high school days, or from online trolls during his Q+A days - a challenging experience that drove him to leave social media forever.

This open and honest chat covers it all, and turns out to be a pretty handy, albeit accidental guide on How To Be You.

To listen to Hamish's new podcast, Take Me To Your Leader, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ukzpph

To listen to our episode with Missy Higgins, follow this link: https://apple.co/4fVM8Bo 

To listen to our episode on stress and burnout with Dr Emily, follow this link: https://apple.co/3CE41WT 

To listen to Josh's song, We Were Here, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Zyg3bG

To read article recommendation, Why The Internet Isn't Fun Anymore, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3FZGnTh

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dear Men,
Please listen to this episode about consent and rape culture.
Hugh, Ryan & Josh x

On the face of it, this Academy of Imperfection with Chanel Contos may seem like a heavy episode. An episode about consent, rape culture and sexual violence might not seem like an episode that concerns you. That may be true, but if the #MeToo movement taught us anything, it’s that you probably know someone who’s either been raped or sexually assaulted in some way.
We have a lot to learn about consent, and we owe it to the women in our lives to listen to Chanel Contos.

To learn more about Chanel, her work and the Teach Us Consent campaign, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3QVhlK0

To purchase Chanel's book, 'Consent Laid Bare', follow this link: https://bit.ly/40Z0Xgh

Recommended TV series, Sex Education and Heart Break High can be viewed on Netflix. 

To view a version of the 'rape culture pyramid', follow this link: https://bit.ly/49XPFgh

If you have experienced, or are at risk of sexual violence, sexual assault, family or domestic violence, call the 24 hour national counselling service 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732). In an emergency, or if you are feeling unsafe, always call the police on 000.

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever made a really bad decision? Made a call that you couldn’t undo? It's a fear for many, and for others, living with the reality of a ‘roll of the dice’ gone wrong, is cause for great sadness, and discomfort. 

But, there is wisdom in mistakes. And for Poh Ling Yeow, learning to own her bad decisions, meant she could move forward with empathy and acceptance. 

A skill she's honed through a life of ‘magooing’ to her way onto our screens through Master Chef, into our kitchens through cookbooks, and very much into our hearts. (Ref. Mr. Magoo). 

In fact, the level of maturity Poh is able to bring to so much of her life, is unlike anyone we’ve ever met before.

Links mentioned in this episode.

📺 Things to watch

• Masterchef on Tenplay - https://bit.ly/4cwzbg8
• South Park - Morman fellowshipping of Kyle - https://bit.ly/4cniH9x

🍽️ Things to cook

• Poh’s latest cookbook - https://bit.ly/4cA1dXo

🎨 Art to see

• Poh’s paintings - The Girl - https://bit.ly/45u0rZI

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Dr Emily talks about hope.

And in a world where things can feel a little bit hopeless, this really couldn’t have come at a better time.

In contrast to all of our understanding up until this point, hope is not an emotion.

Expertly defined by Dr Emily, hope is a belief. And most significantly, it can be learned, and it can be cultivated.

Psychological mic-drop.

This episode delves into strategies for creating both a sense of collective and individual hope, and in a discovery which happens to be VERY on-brand for this podcast, Dr Emily talks to the significance of vulnerability and connection in living a hopeful life.

We hope you enjoy this one as much as we did.

If you would like to watch this full episode on YouTube, follow this link - https://bit.ly/41j0pT1

📚To pre-order Dr Emily’s book Unstuck, click here - https://bit.ly/4bhmCp2

🫖 Other Imperfects episodes mentioned in this episode

• Dr Julia Baird - An Awe-full Conversation - https://www.theimperfects.com.au/episode/dr-julia-baird-an-awe-full-conversation/ 

📖 Things to read

• Martin Seligman - Theory of Learned Hopelessness - https://bit.ly/3EY1oR2
• Rick Snyder - Hope Theory: Rainbows in the Mind - https://bit.ly/4bAbu6Z
• Jamil Zacki - Hope for Cynics - https://www.jamil-zaki.com
• Robyn Walser - Heart of ACT - https://amzn.to/4izIv5x
• Barbara Frederikson - Reflections on Positive Emotions and Upward Spirals - https://bit.ly/3EY2yfl
• Nick Cave’s letter - https://bit.ly/3ETlr2O
• Victor Frankl - Man’s Search For Meaning - https://bit.ly/4iizuNM

💻Things to check out

• Dacher Keltner’s work - https://bit.ly/3XfJpfe
• Obama’s ‘Hope’ poster - https://bit.ly/4kgkvG4

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Other than being a Clinical Psychologist (with a child specialisation), Dr James van Cuylenburg is not only Hugh and Josh’s cousin, but in Hugh’s opinion, he’s the greatest piano player in the world - which provides zero context for this incredible episode.

James covers so much in this 90 minutes that it’s almost impossible to sum up here. Everything from the development of our kids today, screentime issues, the cost of ambition, the importance of self-compassion and James’s own experiences with bullying and how it motivated him to study psychology. Among MANY other topics.

This episode is not just about kids. It’s about the human experience and why we should all acknowledge and love our “wonky bricks” and make the most of our short time on this floating ball we call earth. PRESS PLAY ALREADY!

To learn more about James's work, or book into see him or another psychologist at Engage One on One, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3MV947W

To learn more about Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3MVgNTC

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Pt2 of our chat with award-winning chef and owner of Melbourne restaurant, Attica. Go back and listen to Pt 1 if you haven’t yet. It’s a doozy. As the second part, this is a double-doozy… or a... twoozy… I guess.

In this episode, Ben explains how he managed to build empathy amongst the staff at Attica through something he created called Staff Speeches. He also shares a harrowing bullying story from his childhood when his mother saved him from certain catastrophe, and finally Ben opens up for the first time publicly about his challenging journey with body image.

As one of the most respected and celebrated chefs in the world, we’re very grateful that we were able to sit down with Ben like this. He left a very positive impression on all 3 of us, for very different reasons. Thanks Ben.

To learn more about Attica and to book, follow this link: https://bit.ly/4386LUP

To listen to our episode on how to write a gratitude letter, follow this link: https://bit.ly/45GtpVT

To learn more about the mountain bike riding trip that Hugh, Ben and Hamish went on, visit Blue Darby Pods Ride Tasmania or follow this link: https://bit.ly/3IEs1tg

This episode contains a graphic description of bullying experienced by our guest at a young age. If this feels like it is too much for you to listen to right now, you may want to skip this one and come back another time.

If you or someone you know is experiencing body image issues or an eating disorder, The Butterfly Foundation is a fantastic resource and support. Please follow this link: butterfly.org.au

For family and carer support please contact Eating Disorders Families Australia, or follow this link: edfa.org.au

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Jack, it’s progress, not perfection when it comes to his battle with gambling addiction.
This one is a slightly different episode for The Imperfects. Jack isn’t a celebrity, or an expert. But he is a person with imperfections, just like everyone else. And Jack has been kind enough to share his all-too-familiar story with Hugh, Ryan and Josh.
Jack discusses his crippling battle with sports gambling, his experience at rehab, and how he was finally able to escape his life of keeping secrets.
Jack’s story of gambling addiction is not a story we hear often, but it’s sadly a very common one - particularly in Australia

To contact Gambler Helpline, call 1800 858 858
To learn more about BetStop, and the national self exclusion register, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Zzub4l

To learn more about Gamblers Anonymous, and find GA meetings near you, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ZuXmpn
For app recommendation, My Spiritual Toolkit, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3RCa04a

For mindfulness, meditation and sleep app recommendation, Calm, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3RxzIGV

This episodes contains a discussion around addiction and mentions suicidal thoughts, if this feels like too much for you to listen to right now, we recommend skipping this one and only listening when you feel ready. 

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To only say that Brooke Blurton was on The Bachelor and The Bachelorette, would not only be a crime to Show Notes, but a huge disservice to you. As Hugh, Ryan and Josh quickly discover, that doesn’t even scratch the surface of what makes Brooke the inspiring, resilient, game-changing, youth-working, breath of fresh air that she is.

While Brooke does touch on her Bachelor and Bachelorette experiences (and why she decided to do it), what makes this Vulnerabilitea House truly special is the story that she vulnerably tells about her upbringing in WA. An traumatic experience that no doubt changed her forever, but one that she now says she wouldn’t change.

To watch Brooke's Ted Talk, follow this link: https://bit.ly/46fdGwB

To listen to Brooke's podcast, Not So PG, with co-host Matty Mills, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3PG88FR

To purchase Brooke's memoir, Big Love, follow this link: https://bit.ly/45PfSLs

To learn more about the Uluru Statement of The Heart and The Voice, follow these links: https://bit.ly/3Pmd69F & https://bit.ly/3Rs7T2y

To purchase our Vulnerabilitea House cards sets, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3PBFlkR

This episode contains a conversation which mentions sexual assault and suicide. If this brings up anything for you, you can contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. 1800 RESPECT is a national 24/7 counselling line for anyone who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence and/or sexual assault.

Additionally, if are worried about someone you know, need to talk to someone bereaved by suicide, or want to start a discussion about suicide prevention in your family or community, Conversations Matter is a practical online resource to support safe and effective discussions about suicide, to access, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Wx9tAO

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Imperfects, Hugh sits down with Erin Deering. Erin is the co-founder of Australian swimwear company Triangl. If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we recommend lifeline, 13 11 14. The Imperfects is brought to you by The Resilience Project. Produced by Ryan Shelton, Hugh & Josh van Cuylenburg. A very special thanks to 'No Mono' for generously allowing us to use 'Keep On' as the theme song for this podcast.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They say that by the time he retires, Pat Cummins could be one of Australia’s most successful cricket captains. And if 2023 is anything to go by, "they" might be right. Pat captained the team winning The ODI World Cup, The ICC World Test Championship and retaining The Ashes. And individually, he was not only named The ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year, but also signed a record-breaking contract to play in India in the IPL this year. So yeah, Pat wins a lot.

But this episode isn't just about cricket. Because as Pat talks about with Hugh, Ryan and Josh, he's lost a lot as well - especially in his personal life. Most notably, Pat tragically lost his mother Maria to cancer last year (2023), which he opens up about here, sharing how important life is outside of cricket - an approach that's trickled through to the entire team.

If you love cricket (maybe even as much as Hugh & Josh), or just want to hear how someone deals with struggles while at the top of their game, this is a special episode.

If you enjoyed this episode, you might like our episodes with: 

• Travis Boak - https://apple.co/4eFe8rJ 
• Max Gawn - https://bit.ly/4g0MN5e 
• Tim Minchin - https://apple.co/492kgsN 

To listen to Nick Cave on Rick Ruben's podcast Tetragrammaton, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ThOxhf

To watch this episode on YouTube, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3P8Whzy

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you do when you’re stressed? Watch the telly? Scroll the innuhnet? Fix yourself a stiff VB on the rocks?

We all feel stressed and burned out from time to time. It’s unfortunately a reality of life. But double-unfortunately, most of us don’t know how to correctly deal with it. And that’s why Dr Emily is here to help!

In this extremely practical episode, Dr Emily explains the science behind WHY we get stressed. But more importantly, she tells us what we can do to alleviate the stress and WHY it will work.

And why does she know all these things? Because she’s a… [to be sung] PSYCHOLOGIST!!!

To listen to Kate Reid's Imperfects episode, follow these links: (pt1) https://bit.ly/45wqwqQ & (pt2) https://bit.ly/3BQFAlz

For book recommendation, 'Burnout, The secret to solving the stress cycle', by Emily & Amelia Nagoski, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3IGQZrY

For book recommendation  'The Joy of Movement' by Kelly McGonigal, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ODdzoU

For app recommendation, 'One Sec', follow this link: https://one-sec.app/

For book recommendation, 'Mans Search for Meaning' by Victor E Frankl, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3BSddDq

For further reading on The Polyvagal Theory, follow this link https://rb.gy/23wtb

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The phrase, “That’s triggering” or “I’m triggered”, has become more and more common. And while people are triggered by an event, or a topic, or even a scene in a TV show, what does it truly mean to be ‘triggered’? And should we really be avoiding triggering topics, or should we be exposing ourselves to them?

In this extremely helpful episode, Dr Emily goes deep on triggers. She explains to Hugh, Ryan and Josh what it means to actually be ‘triggered’, and how we often use the term incorrectly. She also talks about the use of Trigger Warnings in shows and podcasts, like the ones you often hear at the beginning of The Imperfects.

There’s a HEAP more fascinating information in this one so get your notebooks out and listen up to the brilliant Dr Em!

To watch Susan David's Ted Talk, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3YfosA1

To delve further into the research around trigger warnings, follow these links: https://bit.ly/3KCvObB, https://bit.ly/3Kh6uHH, https://bit.ly/3q9hBLW, https://bit.ly/3Qeuwaa, https://bit.ly/3rOVrz2, https://bit.ly/3rPrNcV

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Imperfix we revisit one of our most popular episodes ever and in it, a topic that is very close to Hugh, Ryan and Josh’s respective bones. The ongoing battle of Truth vs Harmony.

Do you choose to live truthfully? Or harmoniously? And what does that even mean? And how does living ‘truthfully’ or ‘harmoniously’ affect us and the people around us?

To listen to the full Truth Vs Harmony episode, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3IW3gbw

To listen to Hamish Blake's Imperfects episode, follow this link: https://apple.co/49gV9Tz 

And to hear the follow up bonus episode, follow this link: https://apple.co/3AStVpg 

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the IMPERFIX, we revisit our chat with Australian comedian Luke McGregor. Many of us live with Anxiety, Luke McGregor has for a lot of his life. For Luke, his anxiety became so overwhelming that it resulted in him having panic attacks on stage in front of audiences. In this clip Luke explains what anxiety looks like for him and what he now does to manage his anxiety, allowing him to continue to work and to get the most out of life.

You can hear the original episode in full, with Luke McGregor, here https://apple.co/3CGQJJq 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this bonus episode of The Imperfects, Hugh, Ryan and Josh have an imperfect conversation about mens violence against women.

To say it's a massive problem in Australia is an understatement. Violence and aggression can take many forms that span from small micro-aggressions all the way through to rape and murder. It effects ALL women, with the most vulnerable and marginalised in our community, at the greatest risk. We don’t have the answers to solve it. But we don’t want to remain silent. Through this conversation and many more we'll have on the podcast, it’s our hope that more men start to have the conversation as well.

You can follow Penny Moodie’s advocacy on instagram here, https://bit.ly/3JIBf81.

To listen to our previous episode on consent with Chanel Contos follow this link: https://bit.ly/3RNKpEm 

Or to purchase Chanel's book, Consent Laid Bare, follow this link: https://bit.ly/49BNDRC

To listen to our previous conversation about men’s violence with Tarang Chawla follow this link: https://apple.co/3APcuGi 

To learn more about this problem or we recommend Our Watch https://bit.ly/3w0BQhV & White Ribbon https://bit.ly/3W6nMhs

If you are a man concerned about your behaviour please contact No To Violence: https://bit.ly/3UlyiA5

If you feel like you are in immediate danger please call 000. If you need someone to talk to we recommend the national 24-hour sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line 1800 RESPECT on 1800 732 732.

Or, you can call SafeSteps, Victoria's 24/7 family violence crisis service, on 1800 015 188, or visit this link: https://bit.ly/4b1SlsQ. They can provide financial and material aid, pet safety support and court advocacy, as well as support to people with a disability. 
Or, for further support, contact The Orange Door, who can link you with family violence and parental support services: https://bit.ly/3Q8efTb

If you need support now, use Ask Izzy: a free website and service that connects people in need with housing, a meal, money help, family violence support & counselling: https://bit.ly/3xAVnG4

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Okay so quick brag… last year’s episode with parenting expert Lael Stone was 2022’s #1 Most Shared Episode on Apple Podcasts, which you can listen to at the link below. 💁‍♀️

But now, Lael is back for a brand new b-b-b-bonus ep with Hugh, Ryan and Josh to talk all about YOU! Well… you and your kids and your loved ones and some other very shareable things that you might be verrrrrry interested in.

As your kids start a new year of school and you start a new year of… you… you might be a lil overwhelmed with… everything. But as Lael explains, self-care is important. Because when we’re at our best, we bring the best version of ourselves to our family, friends and work.

Thanks Lael… we LOVE this one.


To listen to Lael's previous Imperfects episode, 'Creating Emotionally Intelligent Humans' follow this link: https://apple.co/3HMCbH5
To purchase Lael's book, follow this link: https://amzn.to/3WWCpRe
To learn more about Lael's work, follow this link: https://laelstone.com.au/
To watch Bluey episode, 'Facey Talk', on abc iview, follow this link: https://ab.co/3Yi5ojz

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emma Murray is the high-performance mindset coach for the Richmond Football Club and Mum to four children.

As the founder of High-Performance Mindfulness - a company that uses mindfulness, psychology and meditation to help people perform at their best - Emma works with elite athletes, corporate executives, students and actors.

In this very practical and vulnerable episode, Emma explains how high-performance mindfulness has not only helped her clients, but also helped her when in 2016, her son Will (13 at the time) sustained a spinal cord injury that left him in a wheelchair for life.


To learn more about Emma Murray and High Performance Mindfulness, follow this link: https://www.highperformancemindfulness.com.au/

For book recommendation, The Mindful Athlete  by George Mumford, follow this link: https://bit.ly/417XF8R

For book recommendation, Sacred Hoops by Phil Jackson, follow this linkhttps://bit.ly/3pcXL1L

To listen to Emma's son Will on The Dyl and Friends podcast, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3NGoGgD

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim Minchin is an Australian comedian, actor, writer, musician, poet, composer, and songwriter. He’s probably best known for his music, his comedy, and well… his ‘Matilda: The Musical’… but has it really all been “luck”?

Tim talks with Hugh, Ryan and Josh about so many different things in this fascinating chat about art and creativity, family, free-will, success, failure and the importance of taking life one level at a time.

For tickets to Tim's new show, An Unfunny Evening with Tim Minchin and His Piano, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ZxAGVs
To watch Tim perform White Wine in The Sun, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3RzwORS
To purchase The Resilience Project's journals, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3RUBke7

To listen to our episode with Dr James van Cuylenburg, mentioned in this episode, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ZFS0YA

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clinical psychologist Dr Julie Smith has a gift for explaining complex ideas in under a minute (which is GREAT for new-age attention spans).

With over 4.8 million TikTok followers, two best-selling books and a glowing endorsement from our own Dr Em, having Dr Julie join our Academy of Imperfection is nothing short of a dream.

In this episode, Dr Julie reframes the feeling of overwhelm, helping us to see it as valuable information about how we might not be meeting our needs, rather than something to fear.

Then, it’s all about confidence, baby. Getting into the nitty-gritty, Ryan and Dr Julie redefine failure, showing how confidence isn’t just built from successes, but from every experience – good, bad and (luckily for Hugh) the awkward.

Oh, and did we mention she’s Dr Em approved?

Smithy, we’d gladly talk to you forever.

If you want to watch this full episode on YouTube, follow this link: https://bit.ly/4iwtFwz 

🫖  Imperfects episode mentioned in this episode

• Missy Higgins - Quitting Music, Depression & Connection - https://bit.ly/4fVM8Bo

📖 Things to read:

• Open When by Dr Julie Smith - https://bit.ly/4hq7y9T
• Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before by Dr Julie Smith https://bit.ly/3FkC2wH

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of our Summer School, we are joined by Sophie Walker, creator, and host of Australian Birth Stories.

With over 17 million downloads, and 500 episodes, Australian Birth Stories podcast has been accredited by the Australian College of Midwives and has been instrumental in educating and empowering both people who are giving birth, as well as birthing partners.

Hugh shares the incredible trauma and fear involved with his first experience of birth, and how tools of education and empowerment, such as Lael Stone’s excellent counselling, helped him prepared for birth a second time around.

The power of information is invaluable, and Josh opens up about how Hugh’s experience with birth shaped his own, and what the experience was like for him.

Sophie, it was such a pleasure.

To watch this full episode on YouTube, follow this link: https://youtu.be/3sey26-L4Rw 

🎧 Things to listen to:

• Australian Birth Stories Podcast - https://apple.co/4f3PgKx
  • Lisa Wipfli’s episode - https://apple.co/3CZ34sx
  • Lael Stone’s episode - https://bit.ly/3ZhaZZD
• Lael Stone on The Imperfects:
  •  Creating Emotionally Intelligent Humans - https://apple.co/3V2vuIb
  • Take Care of Yourself - https://apple.co/4eAJNuw
  • Parent Yourself First - https://apple.co/3ZE28Tj
• Martin Heppell on The Imperfects:
  • The Vulnerabilitea House - Martin Heppell - https://bit.ly/3ZerqqN
  • Martin “Rac” Heppell - The other F word ….. FAILURE - https://bit.ly/4fUkDIk
• Jack Post - Natal Depression - https://apple.co/49AgxDb

💻 Things to check out:

• The danger of a single story TedTalk - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie - https://bit.ly/4f16DM5
• Australian Birth Stories Birth Class Course - https://bit.ly/3BdMgxc

📖 Things to read: 

• The Complete Australian Guide to Pregnancy and Birth by Sophie Walker - https://amzn.to/3EscPQu 

If you, or someone you know, is struggling with post-natal depression or anxiety surrounding birth, these are a few great websites we’ve found

• cope.org.au
• panda.org.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve spent about four and a half years on this podcast telling you why we’re all imperfect. But on this episode, Dr Emily actually explains why trying to be PERFECT is… well… really bad. And not only why it’s really bad, but why perfectionism’s mere existence is stealing all the good from our lives.

Take it away Dr Emily……… PSYCHOLOGIST!

To learn more about Lynn Lyon's work around anxiety and perfectionism, follow this link: https://www.lynnlyons.com/

To hear Josh's first VulnerabiliTea House, where he talks about "the notebook" and why he struggles to write music now, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3OsQVj2

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re doing it. Well… there’s no turning back now.

Hugh, Ryan and Josh are going live on tour around the country with a stage show that they promise will be some of the most imperfect shows they’ve ever done. Live. Uncut. 100% guaranteed imperfection!

The Imperfects… LIVE ON STAGE in 2023

Special pre-sale tickets available from November 11-14 2022

Tickets available from livenation.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There will come a time for all of us (unless we REALLY make some improvements with bio-hacking) where we are faced with our own mortality.

Who is at your hypothetical bedside? Are you happy with how you’ve lived? Do you have any regrets?

In this Summer School edition of the Academy of Imperfection, we are joined by Bronnie Ware.

Bronnie found herself in palliative care, caring for, and listening to, the dying. And boy, are we glad she did.

Bronnie collated, and published, the Top 5 Regrets of the Dying (listed below for your convenience), and this episode is devoted to talking through what each of these might mean for Hugh, Ryan and Josh.

1. I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me
2. I wish I hadn’t worked so hard
3. I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings
4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends
5. I wish that I had let myself be happier

Perfectly timed for the New Year, we hope you get as much out of this episode as we did.

Bronnie, thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us.

To watch this full episode on YouTube, follow this link: https://www.theimperfects.com.au/episode/bronnie-ware-wha…r-future-regrets/

📖 Things to read:

• The Top Five Regrets of the Dying - Bronnie Ware - https://bit.ly/4ghIKkf
• Bronnie’s original blog post - Regrets of the Dying - https://bit.ly/4f2nmPd
• From Strength to Strength - Arthur C. Brooks - https://bit.ly/3BlahT1
• Strong Female Character - Fern Brady - https://bit.ly/3Vl5Uya
• Laughing Heart - Charles Bukowski - https://bit.ly/4g2DbGL

🎧 Things to listen to:

• Paul Kelly - I Wasted Time - https://bit.ly/4eZeWbc
• Fern Brady - Autistic in a Non-Autistic World - https://bit.ly/48nT3Ax

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maybe you know Michelle Brasier from Aunty Donna. Or maybe from Shaun Micallef’s Mad as Hell. Or maybe she’s made you laugh (or cry) in any number of things she’s done on the stage and screen over the years. 

Or maybe you don’t her……… YET!

Michelle Brasier is a singer, actor, writer and comedian who - as you’ll hear in this Vulnerabilitea House - has overcome multiple adversities since a young age. But despite the challenges, she still firmly believes in the practice of optimism. And after selecting the card, “Are you more of an optimist or a pessimist?”, Michelle explains why optimism is such an important part of her life.

Thanks Michelle - you are a breath of fresh air!

To see when and where Michelle is performing next, follow this link: https://www.michellebrasier.com/tour

To listen to the soundtrack from the movie Once, follow this link: https://spoti.fi/3Rmckd0

Parting Glass by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Artist: http://audionautix.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to The Academy of Imperfection - a conversational lecture series that features guest lecturers talking with students Hugh, Ryan, Josh and you about different areas of imperfection. Today, designer, author and teacher, James Victore talks about CREATIVITY.

Before writing his brilliant 2019 book ‘Feck Perfuction: Dangerous Ideas on the Business of Creativity’, James created commerical work for Moet & Chandon, Time magazine and Yohji Yamamoto and has had his work exhibited in Nwe York’s MoMA and The Louvre in Paris. Oh... AND HE’S WON AN EMMY.

James is verrrrry passionate and hence there’s a language warning on this ep.

For more James Victore stuff, please visit him on his website jamesvictore.com or on Instagram @jamesvictore.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our very own Hugh van Cuylenburg is back in the hotseat for a second round in the Vulnerabilitea House! And guys... wowee. Potentially inspired by the most recent Vulnerabilitea House episode with Missy Higgins, Hugh opens up about how much he is actually struggling right now. In fact, he’s probably as raw and honest and vulnerable as he’s ever been on The Imperfects. The Vulnerabilitea House (and the whole podcast tbh) is all about encouraging vulnerability by sharing our own struggles and imperfections. Why? Because being vulnerable creates stronger and more authentic connections with others. But like we’ve said a number of times on this podcast, you can’t just be vulnerable with anyone. It’s important to always trust and feel safe with those you open up to.

If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we recommend lifeline, 13 11 14. The Imperfects is produced by Ryan Shelton, Hugh & Josh van Cuylenburg.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In preparation for what they “promise” will be the biggest year yet for The Imperfects, Hugh, Ryan and Josh catch up for a short warm-up episode. Yes, there’ll of course NEW episodes in Season 3, but also there’ll be new TYPES of episodes, including one that involves an extremely overhyped pun.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may have an image of what a “meditation teacher” sounds like. Whatever you’re thinking of, we’re pretty sure you’re not thinking of Jeff Warren. Jeff Warren is not your traditional meditation “guru”. He’s just... well, a guy. A Canadian guy! And alongside his own challenges with ADD and Bipolar diagnoses (among other things), he’s found a life and successful career in mindfulness and meditation. And if you’re like us, you’ll want to be his best friend.

Jeff is currently best known for his “Daily Trip” meditations on the Calm app. But he’s also written books and taught meditation to all walks of life around the world. For everything you need to know about Jeff including his weekly Do Nothing Project, go to jeffwarren.org

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether it’s TV, film, stand-up comedy, radio, books, podcasts... or... Straughanie, Peter “Pete” Helliar has been making us laugh for over 20 years and has found a lot of success doing it. But like anyone, Pete’s life has at times been imperfect.

In this episode of The Vulnerabilitea House, Pete speaks with Hugh, Ryan and Josh about one of the most difficult times in his life when one of his close friends and colleagues, Richard Marsland, took his own life.

Hugh then shares some practical ways you can talk to people in your life who you think might be struggling.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Okay, so get this...not only is Kemi Nekvapil an author, speaker and coach, but she was trained by Brené Brown. Yuh. THE Brené Brown.

As an author, Kemi has written a new book that you must read. It’s called ‘POWER: A woman’s guide to living and leading without apology’. And in our imperfect opinion, as 3 NON-women, it’s exactly what we all need right now.

In this edition of The Academy of Imperfection, Kemi shares her childhood experience living in foster care - being moved between 5 different families across England - and how it’s shaped her as the powerful woman she is today. Kemi then takes us through her interpretation of POWER - which happens to be a very convenient acronym...

- Presence to understand what is and isn’t working in our lives.

- Ownership of our personal narratives, especially our power stories.

- Wisdom about our needs, boundaries and growth.

- Equality as part of the diverse human family, all of us worthy.

- Responsibility for our choices, healing and happiness.

https://www.keminekvapil.com

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In this extremely special episode, Hugh reads the opening chapter from his second book, ‘Let Go’ to his younger sister (and Josh’s older sister) Georgia van Cuylenburg - a heartfelt letter from him to her.

What follows is an incredibly powerful conversation between the two of them that, for the first time, addresses unspoken feelings and issues that have existed for years.

We’ve been fortunate to have witnessed many beautiful examples of vulnerability on this podcast over the years… but guys… seriously… this is next level. (And I can say that because it’s me Ryan writing this)

Thank you Georgia for allowing us to share this. At times it doesn’t feel like we should be listening in, but gee whiz, I think I can pre-speak for everyone here and say we feel so lucky and privileged that we are. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this Academy of Imperfection, author and profanity purveyor, Johann Hari answers more of your brilliant questions.

As a result, Johann talks with Hugh, Ryan and Josh about intrinsic and extrinsic values, and how they affect the things we do and social media’s role in why we do them.

Also (speaking of click-bait), in an Imperfects exclusive, Johann reveals his go-to KFC order.

And double-also, we recorded this episode before the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, which will make more sense when you listen.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She’s back again! Our very own psychologist, Dr Emily!

In this emisode, Dr Emily reflects on a very moving chat we had with comedian Steen Raskopoulos. 

She talks with Hugh, Ryan and Josh about the concept of Emotional Awareness, and explains why it’s not only important to identify your unpleasant emotions, but why it's even more important to express them when they arise.

Oh, Hugh and tells us about going to Bondi.

For book recommendation Atlas of The Heart by Brene Brown, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3zmHW9Y

For Susan David’s Ted Talk, The Gift and Power of Emotional Courage, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3OQvFAm

To learn more about Matthew Lieberman’s study on ‘affect labelling’, (putting emotions into words) and its impact on our negative emotional experience, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3PQrUMO

To learn more about Dr Dan Siegel’s research into ‘mindsight’ and how we can ‘name and tame’ emotions, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Q8PLqM

To learn more about The Resilience Project’s Journals, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3cSVItf

For app recommendation Day One, follow this link: https://dayoneapp.com/

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Like all of us, Luke McGregor is imperfect. From his challenging childhood at home and school, to his crippling panic attacks on stage as a stand-up comedian, Luke generously shares some of the many stories from his imperfect life with us and of course with you.

A lot gets covered here, including Luke’s ongoing battles with OCD and why he eventually turned to professional comedy after trying a handful of other careers first.

But also, as you’d expect, Luke’s hilarious in this ep so please put your Giggle Hat on. Wait, you DO have a Giggle Hat don’t you?!?!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the words of her own child, Lael Stone “works for the kids”.

But while Lael is technically a therapist who supports parents in understanding their children, everything Lael talks about in this edition of The Academy of Imperfection could easily be applied to all of us in understanding the people in our lives - no matter what age. Whether that be our friends, parents, colleagues or even ourselves.

Through her work, Lael helps adults process their own childhood trauma, and creates education systems that value emotional awareness, demonstrating why it all comes back to connection and compassion.

Oh, and listen out for the dramatic moment when Ryan swoops in and inadvertently steals Josh’s “Good Question” (patent pending).

To learn more about Lael’s work please visit her website at: https://laelstone.com.au/

To watch Lael’s Ted Talk please follow this link: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6fL09e8Tm9c&feature=emb_imp_woyt

To learn more about Lael’s school please follow this link: https://woodlineprimary.com.au/

To watch It’s Not About The Nail, please follow this link: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=-4EDhdAHrOg

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Academy of Imperfection is a little different. As Hugh explains in the opener, this episode actually IS more like a lecture. But trust us, that’s a good thing.

Dr Paul Callaghan has a lot of wisdom to share that he's accrued over a lifetime of wins, losses and even a near death experience that changed his life forever. As an Aboriginal man, much of Paul's wisdom has come from his experience on The Dreaming Path, which also happens to be the title of the book he’s co-written with his friend and Aboriginal elder, Uncle Paul Gordon.

This book is one of the most impactful books we've ever read. Some might assume that aboriginal lore from tens of thousands of years ago would be irrelevant in today’s world. Faaaaar from it. Dr Paul Callaghan and Uncle Paul Gordon wrote this book for all of us, so after you finish this episode, pick up a copy at your local bookstore, and then, let’s all go bush with Paul!

To purchase The Dreaming Path, Indigenous Thinking To Change Your Life, by Dr Paul Callaghan and Uncle Paul Gordon, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3SLD0V4

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carlton footballer Darcy Vescio is one of the biggest names in the AFLW, having won multiple awards including the Carlton Best & Fairest, 2-time All Australian selection and the Mark of the Year. As a marquee player, Darcy is at the top of their game.

But that’s just part of Darcy’s story. Less than a year ago, Darcy publicly came out as non-binary, announcing to the football community that they would now go by the they/them gender pronouns.

In this Vulnerabilitea House, Darcy tells Hugh, Ryan and Josh what that experience was like for them. But also, after Hugh and Ryan regrettably slip up a few times during the episode, Darcy graciously explains why it matters so much to them when people do get their pronoun right.

To watch Darcy's 2017 Mark of The Year, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Cp54Yy

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While many of us may think of Channel 7’s Hamish McLachlan as the voice of sport in Australia, Hamish is very quick to point to Bruce McAvaney instead. As it turns out, we all love Bruce McAvaney A LOT and apologetically talk about him for quite a while - including a few wonderful Bruce stories from Hamish.

When we finally get to the Vulnerabilitea House card selection, Hamish answers the question, ‘When did your life get turned upside down and how did things change?’. This prompts Hamish to show incredible vulnerability and recount two formative events from his family life, and how they’ve reframed his own relationship with the meaning of “challenging times”.

For book recommendation, '4000 Weeks', by Oliver Burkeman, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3C4G6x3

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Okay, so we're dabbling with repeat episodes because we've taken a week off. But we have recorded a new intro bit so there ya go, at least there's SOME new stuff!

This episode with comedian Steen Raskopoulos is not only one of our favourite episodes, but it's also the subject of next week's emisode with Dr Emily - which we can't wait for!

So yeah, back to regular, imperfect programming next week!

To listen to Steen’s podcast, Congrats On The New, please follow this link: https://apple.co/3yUjhtc

To listen to Ryan on Steen’s podcast, please follow link: https://apple.co/3cyEC3Y

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big episode. HUGE episode in fact. Especially for Ryan.

Ryan has been a long-suffering/recent-celebrating supporter of the Melbourne Demons his entire life. And today, Premiership captain of the Dees, Max Gawn is in The Vulnerabilitea House.

Ryan. Breathe.

Max tells Hugh, Ryan and Josh about a courageous comment made by one of the players in a team meeting that addressed the negative way players were speaking to each other. The comment cut deep - not only for Max who felt shame for his own behaviour, but one that lead to greater connection, trust and respect between the players, and ultimately to their lifelong dream of an AFL Premiership (the greatest, most joyous day for their fans).

Once again… breathe, Ryan.

For more information on Active-Constructive Communication, start here… [https://positivepsychology.com/active-constructive-communication/](https://positivepsychology.com/active-constructive-communication/)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two episodes in a week, what is going on? Well, it's another Vulnerabilitea House that's what. This week it's Josh's turn.

Lockdown rules meant this teahouse was spread across three tea houses but it doesn't detract from the quality of the tea, and the vulnerableness. Josh discusses an issue he's had for a long, long time and Hugh takes some time to delve a little deeper into the concept of vulnerability. What is it? Why is it important? How do we best practise it?

Being vulnerable can be scary, but it creates stronger and more authentic connections with others. Just make sure to be mindful about who you’re vulnerable with. It’s always important to trust and feel safe with those you open up to.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steph Claire Smith is one of Australia's most successful models. She rose to fame as the Instagram 'it girl' and has managed to transform this fame into a highly accomplished international modelling career; and with the help of best friend Laura, a fast growing health & fitness brand, Keep It Cleaner.

If anyone's life looks perfect, it's Steph's. However, as she bravely details in this fascinating chat with Hugh, we shouldn't always believe what we see on Instagram.

Following the chat, Ryan and Hugh discuss some of the valuable insights from their conversation, as well as discussing Hugh's own flash-in-a-pan modelling career.

WARNING: This episode of The Imperfects contains references to eating disorders and behaviours.

If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we strongly recommend lifeline on 13 11 14.

The Imperfects is brought to you by The Resilience Project. Produced by Ryan Shelton, Hugh van Cuylenburg & Josh van Cuylenburg. Mixed and mastered by Windmill Audio. A special thank you also to No Mono (Pie Eater) for generously allowing us to use ‘Keep On’ as the theme song for this podcast.

For more information and links to anything discussed in today’s episode, please visit: https://theresilienceproject.com.au/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To celebrate Father's Day, Hugh plays some intimate audio of him reading a chapter of his book, 'Let Go', to his Dad (and Josh's Dad incidentally). But not just any old chapter, the final chapter ABOUT his Dad.

Afterwards, Hugh explains to Ryan and Josh, how writing a gratitude letter to your Dad (even if he isn't around anymore) can have a hugely positive impact.

But of course, Gratitude Letters aren't just for Dads, they're for your Mum or any carer in your life as well.

Happy Fathers Day. Have a listen, then go write a gratitude letter. ❤️

To watch Fitzy (Ryan Fitzgerald) read his gratitude letter to his dad, follow this link: https://vimeo.com/352402397

To view a version of the 'Power and Privilege Wheel' please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ecWnGS

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Thirsty? How about a nice cup of Vulnerabilitea from The Vulnerabilitea House? Join Hugh and Josh as they listen to co-host Ryan Shelton pick a card at random and get vulnerable.

Ryan shares some recent discoveries he’s had with his psychologist in regards to how certain aspects of his childhood prepared him... or DIDN’T prepare him for adulthood.

N.B. There’s also a quick digression into the nostalgic world of 90s NBL Basketball. Don’t worry, it’s quick.

Also, while being vulnerable can be scary, it creates stronger and more authentic connections with others. Just make sure to be mindful about who you’re vulnerable with. It’s always important to trust and feel safe with those you open up to.

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Ready to learn? Us too.

In The Academy of Imperfection this week, imperfect students Hugh, Ryan and Josh speak with American psychologist, leadership coach and specialist in the area of male relationships, Daniel Ellenberg. Daniel shares some very insightful stuff on how men relate to other men - why they do what they do, and why they DON’T do what they don’t do! But by the end of the episode, what was supposed to be a casual “lecture” turns into a men’s workshop of sorts, as Hugh, Ryan and Josh show a lot more vulnerability towards each other than they were expecting. The recording of this episode was definitely a memorable experience.

Daniel Ellenberg, PhD is a co-founder of Relationships That Work https://www.relationshipsthatwork.com, the founder/director of Strength with Heart men’s groups and workshops https://www.strengthwithheart.com, and a principal in Rewire Leadership Institute https://rewireleadership.com

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Surprise! We have something special for you. Okay fine... it MAY be merchandise. Fine, you twisted our arm... it IS merchandise. But GOOD merchandise! PUN merchandise!!!

Have a listen and go to thevulnerabiliteabag.com. BUT BE QUICK!

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We’re back... for a warm up ep... and as you’ll soon hear... we’re properly professional now!

Not because of the three of us, because of the new members of our Imperfects team... Bridget Northeast, BOTH British Andys (Hall and Poole), George Martin, Jamieson Moore and Dr Emily!

This really is our highest level of excitement EVER.

So, so, so good to see you,

Hugh, Ryan & Josh

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In the first episode of season two, Hugh chats with international best-selling author, Johann Hari.

For those of you who listened to season one, you will have heard us mention Johann Hari, and his book Lost Connections, ALOT. We’re big fans.

In fact, he’s had a huge influence on not just us, but some of our previous guests (see Missy Higgins Ep. 1). So, even though it’s a bit of a different episode than what we’d usually do, we couldn’t be more excited to be starting the season with Johann as our first guest.

Hugh and Johann have a fascinating discussion around anxiety, depression, addiction, connection and how our mental health is connected to the work around us.

Following this, Ryan and Hugh try hard not to completely fanboy over Johann as they attempt to further explore some of these powerful ideas.

If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we strongly recommend lifeline on 13 11 14.

The Imperfects is brought to you by The Resilience Project. Produced by Ryan Shelton, Hugh van Cuylenburg and Josh van Cuylenburg. A very very special thank you also to No Mono (Pie Eater) for generously allowing us to use ‘Keep On’ as the theme song for this podcast.

For more information and links to anything discussed in today’s episode, please visit: https://theresilienceproject.com.au/podcast/

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This week we talk to Australian athlete, the incredible Catriona Bisset. Catriona talks candidly of her unconventional...almost unintentional journey of becoming the fastest woman in Australian history over 800m.

Following this, Ryan and Hugh discuss some of the valuable lessons we can learn from Catriona's fascinating journey.

If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we strongly recommend lifeline on 13 11 14.

The Imperfects is brought to you by The Resilience Project. Produced by Ryan Shelton, Hugh van Cuylenburg & Josh van Cuylenburg. Mixed and mastered by Windmill Audio. A special thank you also to No Mono (Pie Eater) for generously allowing us to use ‘Keep On’ as the theme song for this podcast.

For more information and links to anything discussed in today’s episode, please visit: https://theresilienceproject.com.au/podcast/

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This week we talk to the wonderful Australian comedian, actor and improviser Steen Raskopoulos. Over the past 8 years Steen Raskopoulos has enjoyed a remarkable career with acclaimed stand up shows, starring roles on tv shows, working with his comedic idols, copious awards...the works. In this episode Steen talks candidly of the mental health struggles going on behind the scenes during this meteoric rise.

Following this, Ryan and Hugh discuss some of the valuable lessons we can learn from Steen's story.

If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we strongly recommend lifeline on 13 11 14.

The Imperfects is brought to you by The Resilience Project. Produced by Ryan Shelton, Hugh van Cuylenburg & Josh van Cuylenburg. Mixed and mastered by Windmill Audio. A special thank you also to No Mono (Pie Eater) for generously allowing us to use ‘Keep On’ as the theme song for this podcast.

For more information and links to anything discussed in today’s episode, please visit: https://theresilienceproject.com.au/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the podcast we return to The Vulnerabilitea House, and this time its Ryan Shelton's turn.

The Vulnerabilitea House, is a new style of episode from The Imperfects, where we share something honest and a little bit vulnerable, all over a nice cup of tea.

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In the beginning, it was novel. A change of pace. A good excuse to bake our own bread and believe that “we’ll always bake our own bread from now on because it’s so nice to wake up to the smell of fresh bread in the morning!”

But come on... seriously... we’re not baking bread anymore are we? This whole COVID thing has become a proper bummer. Like, next-level maximum bummer.

So, because we’ve all been feeling the pinch recently, Hugh assembled Ryan and Josh for a very unplanned Snap Podcast to talk about it, and share what’s been helping him cope with the current and ongoing shitness of lockdown.

This isn’t a regular episode. There’s no guests, no experts and no tea. It’s just Hugh, Ryan and Josh trying to find some light during an extremely challenging time.

Hope you’re doing okay out there. We know it’s tough. But hopefully this helps a little.

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We’ve been big fans of the Dyl & Friends podcast for a long time now. We love everything about the former AFL footballer and host of the Dyl & Friends podcast, Dylan Buckley. To that end, we are very excited to release this episode of our podcast as a Dyl & Friends and The Imperfects collaboration. As you will hear, Dylan is authentic and open. He embraces his imperfections and as such this chat is a true mix of both shows. Dylan starts off interviewing us about how The Imperfects started, and then we welcome Dylan into the Vulnerabilitea House where he delivers one of the most vulnerable and heart felt tea house shares we’ve had to date.

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Go get your pens and notebooks everyone!

In this edition of The Academy of Imperfection, students Hugh, Ryan, Josh sit down with famed paediatrician, Dr Billy Garvey of The Royal Children’s Hospital.

Currently, Billy regretfully has a two and a half year waiting list to see him in person, but is keen to reach as many of you as possible NOW. And with all the talk on our podcast about parenting recently, we felt this was a very necessary episode.

Billy may not look like one of Australia’s most respected and in-demand paediatricians, as we speak about in the episode, but gee whiz, he sure does talk like it!

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In 2003, JET’s Are You Gonna Be My Girl was one of the biggest songs on the planet. It was so big, Apple even used it for their first iPod ad. Remember? The one with the dancing silhouettes on the colourful backgrounds? Yeah, that was JET.

As the bass player for JET, Mark Wilson has lived the dream of any musician. He’s toured the world and played to packed stadiums, and even stood with Beyonce and Jay Z at the MTV Video Music Awards before playing on stage in front of them.

But Mark has also been dealt with some of the most challenging tragedies we can face. In this emotional episode, Mark talks about the good times and the bad times and how he’s dealt with loss in his life.

After the interview, Hugh talks with Ryan and Josh about some practical ways we can all deal with loss and trauma in our own lives.

To watch Bessel van der Kolk's "6 ways to to heal trauma without medication" on YouTube, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3q7FnEH

To read or purchase book recommendation, "The Body Keeps The Score" by Bessel van der Kolk, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3BdSPgH

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For over 30 years, Glenn Robbins has been one of the funniest and most loved performers in Australia. From The Comedy Company and Kath & Kim, to The Panel and of course Russell Coight, Glenn has guaranteed his spot in the comedy history books.

But Glenn hasn’t always seen it that way. From a young age he was told he was "average", and despite his many successes, has dealt with a lifetime of performance anxiety.

In this edition of The Vulnerabilitea House, Glenn opens up and tells us how he manages to ignore the 'bad voice' in his head that tells him he's not good enough, and instead listen to the ‘good voice’, so he can face his fears and make good work he's proud of.

We highly encourage you to listen to this episode - especially while power-walking through the suburbs with a set of hand weights.

To listen to Glenn’s podcast with Dave O’Neil, click this link: https://apple.co/3O41PZv

To watch Shane Warne on The Panel, click this link: https://bit.ly/39DB1R0

Book recommendation Before & Laughter by Jimmy Carr can be found here: https://amzn.to/3y3Xss7

Book recommendation From Strength To Strength by Arthur C Brooks can be found here: https://amzn.to/3OqJQfS

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Originally from Rwanda, stand-up comedian Oliver Twist spent 14 years in a Malawi refugee camp before finally arriving in Ipswich, Queensland with his family.

In this Vulnerabilitea House, Oliver answers the question, “Where is home for you?” - a simple question for some, but a complicated one for Oliver.

Oliver shares stories from his extraordinarily imperfect life in great detail. Everything from being displaced by the Rwandan Genocide, to living in the refugee camp, and eventually seeing Trevor Noah perform stand-up comedy on the internet. And, thanks to ANOTHER “good question” from Josh, Oliver reflects on what his Australian citizenship actually means to him.

Oliver Twist’s incredible live shows, Jali and Griot, are still touring in select cities. You can find tickets on the link below:

https://www.livenation.com.au/artist-oliver-twist-1340595

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On this week's episode of the podcast we talk to Australian comedian Becky Lucas. Becky has written a book -Acknowledgements, and as you will hear Hugh is BIT of a fan.

We cover a-lot in this ep, from bitchy English exchange students, Becky’s parents' divorce, 'dick-lit’, the stresses of lock down; and somehow we manage to squeeze in a discussion of 90s NBL basketball under the ‘auspice’ of a special birthday surprise.

Afterwards we discuss the role of laughter and comedy in our lives and why laughter is such an incredible thing for changing our mood and improving our mental health.

Yep, as I said, we cover quite a lot...

If this chat has brought up any troubling emotions or thoughts for you, as always we strongly recommend Lifeline on 13 11 14.

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Best known for his role as ‘Jimmy’ on TV show, Offspring, actor Rick Davies doesn’t remember a time in his life without Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Despite that, this is the first time Rick is speaking publicy about it. Rick selflessly shares a number of uncomfortable (and slightly embarrassing) stories from his life with OCD, and afterwards Hugh chats with Ryan and Josh about some resources for anyone who has OCD or knows someone who does.

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We can all feel it. And unfortunately, it’s getting worse. Paying attention and properly focussing these days is getting harder and harder. And in the first Academy of Imperfection for 2022, Johann Hari is here to explain to Hugh, Ryan and Josh exactly why that is. The good news is... it’s not our fault. But luckily there are things we can do about it. If you want to delve deeper into the topics and themes from this episode, please read (or listen to - like Hugh and Ryan did) Johann’s incredible new book, Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention. It might just be the thing that gets you off your phone for a bit. However, while Johann may be this week’s guest lecturer, Josh is certainly this week’s star pupil, delivering what may be one of the most powerful and moving acts of vulnerability we’ve ever seen on this podcast. Josh didn’t plan to say what he said, but in finding the courage to speak his truth, his hope is that others with similar struggles will feel more supported, or at least feel less alone.

Thank you Johann for returning to The Imperfects, and thank you Josh for being imperfect.

For more information about Johann Hari and where to his book visit: https://stolenfocusbook.com/

@theimperfectspodcast

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Please welcome the newest member of The Imperfects family... our resident psychologist, Dr Emily!

Dr Emily recently joined The Imperfects behind the scenes, ensuring our episodes are released with care, compassion and professionalism.

This season however, Hugh, Ryan and Josh begged Dr Emily to bring her knowledge directly to you with her very own regular episodes! Each month she will join Hugh, Ryan and Josh and bring in something from The Imperfects archives, to then give general advice and information based on the stories and themes from the episode.

In this debut ‘Emisode’, Dr Emily discusses the final episode of 2021; “Georgia & Hugh”. If you haven’t heard that incredibly moving episode, you could listen to that first, but you’ll definitely be able to follow along if you haven’t heard it. Here’s a link to that ep just in case... https://apple.co/35xOmbs

And here’s a link to the book by Oprah and Dr Bruce Perry mentioned by Dr Emily: https://bit.ly/3u1y1VV


The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kate Langbroek, in our humble opinion, is a very special person and we absolutely love her.

Kate has experienced decades of success on Australian TV and radio - whether it was every Wednesday night on The Panel, or with her mate Hughesy on the radio. Now she’s written her first book, “Ciao, Bella” - filled with stories from her amazing and colourful life. But even with all her success, like all of us, Kate’s life hasn’t been perfect.

In this raw episode, Kate generously shares what it was like when her eldest son Lewis was diagnosed with Leukaemia, and how it impacted her life and her family - then and now. Afterwards, Hugh talks with Ryan and Josh and gives us some insight on the emotion of LOVE, and how positive emotions like love can drastically improve our mental health.

@theimperfectspodcast

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We’re back in The Vulnerabilitea House! This time it’s Josh van Cuylenburg. The proven question-ASKER, becomes a first-time question-ANSWERER as he sips some Vunerabilitea and shares an honest and raw story from his past that not even his brother Hugh knew about - all in the name of vulnerability and connection. Pour yourself a cup of tea everyone... it’s great to see you again.

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Welcome to the very first episode of The Academy of Imperfection!

Presented by The Imperfects, this new series of conversational lectures will feature experts talking about different areas of imperfection with students Hugh, Ryan, Josh and you.

The inaugural guest lecturer is someone we are extremely excited about. Ben Crowe. Along with Brene Brown, Ben has easily been the most mentioned person on The Imperfects over the last few years.

Since working at NIKE for decades, Ben has worked closely with everyone from Andre Agassi to Cathy Freeman and surfing champion Steph Gilmore. And more recently with our very own Hugh van Cuylenburg and Ryan Shelton!

Here, Ben talks to the class about the importance of self-compassion, connection and purpose. We dare say, this is the one that might just change your life - or at the very least, help you embrace your weird for a few days.

For more from Ben Crowe, please visit his website mojocrowe.com or find him on Instagram.

Ted Talk - Finding your purpose in 5 minutes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVsXO9brK7M

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B-B-B-BONUS EP!!!

After what has been a very vulnerable month for The Imperfects, Hugh wanted to check in with Ryan and Josh to see how they’re feeling after some “big shares” in the first 4 episodes of the season.

Firstly, Ryan reflects on how he’s feeling after revealing his worries around the supposed “love triangle” with Hugh and Hamish during Hamish’s Vulnerabilitea House episode. Then Josh talks about his self-doubt surrounding his role on the podcast, and of course where he’s at with his internet use since bravely sharing addiction with the group during the Johann Hari episode.

We’ll be back to normal programming next episode with Luke McGregor, but until then, this episode’s all about us!

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Hamish Blake is a very funny man. No surprises there. But as it turns out, Hamish Blake is also a man who experiences self-doubt. Hmm, SOME surprises there!

And as the latest guest in The Vulnerabilitea House, Hamish tells Hugh, Ryan and Josh about the self-doubt he’s experienced while performing on TV, even after doing it for almost 20 years. Whether it be during one of his many appearances on panel shows, or even while standing in front of the contestants on his first day as host of Lego Masters.

Later in the ep, Hamish, Ryan and Hugh openly discuss their evolving “love triangle” that has been triggering feelings of self-doubt within Ryan. Then Josh talks candidly about his own self-doubt regarding his role on The Imperfects.

Yep. This one’s a big ol’ share-fest. Let’s hug.

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Today we welcome Dr Yves Rees into The Vulnerabilitea House. 

One morning, in a hotel room in Canada, aged 30, Yves had a life changing epiphany. With this came a range of emotions - happiness, confusion, pain, joy...and almost everything in between.

As well as being a renowned history professor at La Trobe University, Yves is transgender.

In today’s episode of The Imperfects, Ryan, Josh and Hugh are educated and enlightened by the insightful and vulnerable Dr Yves Rees. Dr Rees has recently released their memoir, All About Yves.

If this episode sparks anything for you that you wish to explore further, we recommend transhub.org.au as a fantastic resource to learn more.

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Prepare yourself for a very different episode of The Vulnerabilitea House (for a few reasons):

1. We welcome our first guest... MISSY HIGGINS IS BACK ON THE POD!
2. We all live in Melbourne and it was COVID lockdown at the time of recording so we were on Zoom.
3. The whole thing almost didn’t happen at all... and you’ll hear why.

For those new to The Vulnerabilitea House, here’s how it works. We get together, we sip tea, someone picks a card from the deck of vulnerability-invoking questions, and then they answer that question, making themselves vulnerable to the group AND YOU.

In theory, it should be pretty simple. But on this occasion, we kinda messed up and accidentally made it very unsimple for Missy. We felt terrible. But boy oh boy...did she bounce back!

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As a DJ, TV presenter, award-winning podcaster and Triple J royalty, Linda Marigliano has had a big career and spoken to some of the biggest artists of all time. And now she joins Hugh, Ryan and Josh in The Vulnerabilitea House.

Linda talks about her life growing up as the child of an Italian father and Chinese mother, and explains about how the criticism she received from her mother made her feel about herself - both then and now.

Oh, and there’s some very practical advice on nose-hair trimming, thanks to Linda’s Mum, Janet.

To listen to Linda's podcast, 'Tough Love', follow this link: https://apple.co/3EGNIrg

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Travis Boak is one of the best footballers in the country. At age 33, he is showing no signs of slowing down, in fact many believe he is just getting better. His brilliance on the ground is a direct result of the hard work he puts into his game. What many don’t know however, is that he works just as hard on his mental and emotional health. Due to the tragic passing of his father, Travis has, for way too long, carried the baggage and trauma of this tragedy. Join Travis for this heartfelt conversation as he talks us through the power of letting go of the things you cannot control and embracing the uncertainties of life.

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Australia has had a LOT of success in the Olympic Swimming Pool. That’s an understatement. But one of our most successful and loved Olympians of recent times is golden girl, Libby Trickett. During her successful swimming career Libby was all smiles after winning gold medal after gold medal at three consecutive Olympic Games, but as she shares in this episode, on the inside she was struggling with a powerful feeling that she wasn’t enough.

Libby tells us all about what that was like, as well as sharing her more recent struggles with motherhood, and how both have led to bouts of depression and anxiety.

Libby displays extreme vulnerability in this episode - more of which is in her new book, Beneath the Surface.

Thank you Libby.

To listen to Libby’s podcast, All The Glitters, buy her book “Beneath The Surface, or learn more about her business “Unlocking Her Potential”, please follow this link: https://linktr.ee/libby_trickett

For book recommendation “A New Earth” by Eckhart Tolle, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/2ylEihJ

To listen to the Oprah’s Super Soul Conversation podcast with Eckhart Tolle, please follow this link: https://apple.co/3ub2Nvl

For book recommendation Atomic Habits by James Clear, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/2CbKTNL

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The most hyped pun in podcasting, well, sort of...

This is a new style of episode from The Imperfects, something a bit shorter than normal, which we’ll scatter between the longer eps. As you’ll see from the title of these episodes (pun revealed in the ep!), they’re designed to encourage vulnerability. 

First up. it's Hugh's turn to be vulnerable, if all goes well, we'll try and get some more imperfect people sharing something honest and a little bit vulnerable, all shared over a nice cup of tea.

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Harry Garside is an Australian boxer who won bronze at the Tokyo Olympics - the first Olympic medal in boxing for Australia in 33 years. But to simply describe Harry Garside as a champion boxer, would be to sell him waaaaaaay short.

Because Harry is also a ballet dancer, a plumber and the guy who asked to wear a dress at the Olympic Opening Ceremony with the desire of defying gender stereotypes (request denied).

To listen to the podcast with Deeyah Khan that Harry recommends, please follow the link https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=-kunkEfHiLI

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Welcome back to Dr Emily, our very own... PSYCHOLOGIST!

Reflecting on the recent episode with Luke McGregor, in this episode Dr Emily talks about panic attacks. What are they? Why do we get them? And what do we do when they show up and scare the hell out of us?

Thanks Dr Em

To find out more about by Russ Harris, The Happiness Trap and his work as an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Trainer visit; https://www.actmindfully.com.au/

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

None of us like to feel rejected. Whether it be at work, with friends, or on a date.

In this Dr Emisode, Dr Emily - our very own psychologist - tells Hugh, Ryan and Josh why some of us have a sensitivity to rejection. She explains what we can do about it, and how we can act compassionately towards others, and avoid making them feel unnecessarily rejected as well.

For research article, 'Recognising Emotion In Faces: Developmental Effects of Child Abuse and Neglect', by Seth Pollak, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3CqDee9

For research reference and book recommendation, 'The Joy of Movement', by Kelly McGonigal follow this link: https://bit.ly/3fv6Uhb

To watch the Ted Lasso clip about making yourself feel confident through movement, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3dTVYcF


The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is no one else in the world quite like our guest this week. 

For years people kept telling Hugh he needed to bring on a new presenter to meet the demand from schools and workplaces around the country. He said he would only ever do it if he found someone extraordinary. In 2015, Hugh found that extraordinary person - Martin Heppell. In today’s episode, Ryan, Hugh and Josh are both moved and inspired as Martin steps into the Vulnerabilitea and shares a heart breaking story from his childhood. As only Martin can do, he starts the interview by sharing the trauma of his past, but ends the interview leaving the boys inspired to be better people. Warning. This episode contains references to child abuse.

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A Part 1 wouldn't be complete without a Part 2. 

So here it is... wrapping up the wrap up!

After Hugh kicked things off with a beautiful bang in Part 1, Part 2 sees Josh and Ryan follow suit and reflect on 2 moments from the podcast that meant a lot to them in 2021 - powerful moments from Martin Heppell and Ben Crowe.

Once again, thank you for your ears. We love you. Now go tell someone special that you love them.

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On this week’s episode, Hugh chats with Australian BMX racer, world champion, multi-Olympian, Sam Willoughby. In 2016, Sam experienced a life-changing neck injury which left him with tetraplegia. At 29 Sam has lived a remarkable life and is an incredible person who tells his life story with candour and honesty.

Following the chat, Ryan and Hugh discuss Sam's journey whilst exploring some of the life lessons we can learn from this incredible person.

If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we strongly recommend lifeline on 13 11 14.

The Imperfects is brought to you by The Resilience Project. Produced by Ryan Shelton, Hugh van Cuylenburg & Josh van Cuylenburg. Mixed and mastered by Windmill Audio. A special thank you also to No Mono (Pie Eater) for generously allowing us to use ‘Keep On’ as the theme song for this podcast.

For more information and links to anything discussed in today’s episode, please visit: https://theresilienceproject.com.au/podcast/

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We seriously hope you listen to this one. I mean, obviously we hope you listen to all our episodes but THIS ONE... well, we reckon this one’s important.

Tarang Chawla’s younger sister Niki was the kindest person he knew. But in 2015, Niki was murdered by her partner who she was trying to break up with, as a result of domestic violence. Since then, Tarang has become an activist against men’s violence, educating all Australians on the many forms of abuse and its role in the mental health crisis.

But as Tarang explains, “abuse” is often not what we think.

In this Academy of Imperfection, guest lecturer Tarang Chawla talks with Hugh, Ryan and Josh about the many forms of abuse, violence, coercive control, gender inequality, and how we can all play a part in a safer future and why that’s so important for all of us.

If you have experienced or are at risk of domestic and family violence and/or sexual assault, you can call the 24 hour national counselling service 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732). In an emergency, or if you are not feeling safe, always call the police on 000

To listen to Tarang's podcast, "There's No Place Like Home" please follow the link below: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/theres-no-place-like-home-by-future-women/id1608086343

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You might think that TV journalist and proud indigenous woman Narelda Jacobs has a perfect life. She’s the co-host of Studio 10, makes regular appearances on The Project, she’s a three-time host of the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras, and she’s... done lots of other things that are also on her Wikipedia page.

But like all of us, Narelda’s life has been far from perfect. I mean come on guys, we’re all imperfect, surely you’ve learnt that by now!

In this episode, Narelda talks openly about the challenges of falling pregnant as an 18-year-old... and then having to tell her parents. This would be hard for anyone, but Narelda grew up in an extremely religious household and her father was a Reverend of the Uniting Church. But that turned out to be a mere warm up for what was to come three years later, when she came out to her parents as gay.

We loved this chat with Narelda. And well, we love Narelda. We’re sure you will too.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Emily is back to help us all!

Reflecting on our episode with Olympic BMX rider, Sam Willoughby from Season 2, Dr Emily talks us through the dangers of the Hedonistic Treadmill, and its slightly lesser known cousin, Hedonistic Adaptation.

There’s a lot covered in this episode, including ‘Growth Mindset’, being mindful of what we want and why, and how quickly we actually adapt to finally getting those things we want.

For book recommendation Hardwiring Happiness by Rick Hanson, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3tTaRjU

For book recommendation The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3tT6e9E

To watch Carol Dwecks Ted Talk, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3OydHTz

Reference for Sonja Lyubomrisky’s stats for the determinants of happiness: https://bit.ly/3xPDSy6


The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We had to split our "End of Year Wrap" into 2 parts because of what came up in this ep.

Without wanting to spoil it, it's yet another example of what can happen when we start the conversation and show a lil vulnerability to the ones we love.

There will obviously be a Part 2, and then a few more very VERY special episodes to round out the year.

Thank you for listening to us. We love you and appreciate you a LOT.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Emisode, Dr Emily returns to talk about a topic that is VERRRRRY close to the bones of Ryan, Hugh and Josh. The ongoing battle of Truth vs Harmony.

Does that ring any bells for you? Do you choose to live truthfully? Or harmoniously? And what does that even mean? What’s the difference? And how do living ‘truthfully’ or ‘harmoniously’ affect us and the people around us?

Dr Emily goes into all of it.

In this episode, Dr Emily references conversations from Hamish Blake's episode and our last bonus episode. To listen to those, follow the links below:

Hamish Blake's episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/hamish-blake-lets-talk-about-self-doubt/id1476501557?i=1000555382728

Bonus episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/we-need-to-talk-hugh-checks-in-with-ryan-josh-after-a-big-month/id1476501557?i=1000556568682

Dr Emily also references Rick Hanson, to follow his work visit: www.rickhanson.net

If you have experienced, or are at risk of domestic and family violence and/or sexual assault, you can call the 24 hour national counselling service 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732). In an emergency, or if you are not feeling safe, always call the police on 000. - https://www.1800respect.org.au/services

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Emisode, Dr Emily explains some reasons why the inner critic is there in the first place, and where it’s coming from.

To watch Shirzad Chamine's Ted Talk, 'Know Your Inner Saboteurs', follow this link: https://bit.ly/2Ybu5Aa

To learn more about Daniel Siegel research and to purchase Mindsight, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3TnNVV5

To read the research article 'Positive Self-Statements, Power For Some, Peril For Others', follow this link, https://bit.ly/2L4k0k3 or, https://bit.ly/3RiTeDo

To listen to Russ Harris talk about the problems with positive self-talk on The Life Lessons podcast with Simon Mundie, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3TlOZJ8

To learn more about Russ Harris's research and to purchase The Happiness Trap, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3wDAgzM


The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stand-up comedian Nazeem Hussain lost his father to COVID-19 in 2021. In this episode, Nazeem shares the difficulties surrounding his family’s loss, and how his Dad’s life and sudden death has impacted his own life. But Nazeem also tells some wildly funny stories - in particular one about a "comedy concert" he did in Sri Lanka in front of The Prime Minister, which turned out to be organised by none other than his Dad.

You probably already know Naz from his many, MANY appearances on the telly including The Project, Orange Is The New Brown or maybe even I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here. But his latest work sees him acting and writing on the new ABC show, Summer Love. Link below.

To watch Nazeem in Summer Love, follow this link: https://ab.co/3BR4gLC

To pre-order Nazeem's new children's book, follow this link https://bit.ly/3UlxSHW

For recommendation, 'Raising Boys', by Steve Biddulph, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3RLMpuV

To read '7 Sneaky Ways Your Parents Influence Is Still Affecting Your Life', by Suzannah Weiss, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3UhkTam

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lune is highly regarded as the most respected patisserie in Australia. The New York Times even called the Lune croissant the best in the world. And the woman behind it all is Kate Reid, a former Aerospace Engineer at the Williams F1 Team in the UK.

Kate’s story has to be heard to be believed. It’s so epic, we had to break it into 2 parts.

In Part 1, Kate talks about her time at Williams, and generously shares her struggles with anorexia, which eventually forced her to end her F1 dream and return home to Australia for her recovery.

In Part 2, Kate tells the inspiring story of how she created Lune Croissanterie, and how she’s learned to embrace the fact that her world-renowned croissant will never be perfect.

JUST. LIKE. US.

To purchase Kate's new cook book, 'Lune, Crossiants All Day, All Night' follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Nlp0z5

If you or someone you know is experiencing an eating disorder or body image issues, The Butterfly Foundation is a fantastic resource and support. Please follow this link: butterfly.org.au

For family and carer support, and to learn more about the organisation Hugh spoke about in the episode contact Eating Disorders Families Australia, or follow this link: edfa.org.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all fail. All of us. Why? Because we’re all imperfect. And no one talks about failure more passionately than The Resilience Project’s own Martin “Rac” Heppell. And he’s today’s guest lecturer in The Academy of Imperfection.

Some of you may remember Rac’s first memorable appearance in The Vulnerabilitea House last season. If you haven’t heard it, we know you’ll want to listen (or re-listen) after this one - link below.

Failure, the other F word, is something we don’t like to talk about. It’s embarrassing. And sometimes it’s shameful. But as Martin explains, it’s important that we DO talk about failure. Because failure isn’t just normal… it’s crucial for our growth.

Feel like a rev up? This ep’s for you.

Rac’s back, baby… RAC’S BACK.

ALSO… here’s some extra info about Rac that’ll be helpful before listening to the ep:

- When Rac was a kid, his family spent some time living with a head-hunting tribe (there’s more on this in Rac’s first episode from last season)

- Between 1993 and 1995, Rac played 7 senior AFL games for St Kilda and Melbourne

- Rac works with The Resilience Project as one of their main Speakers, spending the majority of his time at schools, helping kids around Australia.

To listen to our previous episode with Rac, follow this link: https://apple.co/3xWoKPy

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2019 Will McMahon and Woody Whitelaw (of Will & Woody fame) released the video, "Best Mates Sit Down For A Heart To Heart About Depression". If you haven't seen it, you really must. It's a fantastic example of the power of vulnerability.

Will McMahon has enjoyed a phenomenal career in radio, currently co-hosting the drive slot on the KISS network. He's at the top of his game, yet Will has achieved all this whilst enduring the undulations of living with a mental illness.

Following the chat, Ryan and Hugh explore some of these valuable lessons a little further, surrounding the topics of ‘male friendship’ and ‘expectations’.

If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we strongly recommend lifeline on 13 11 14.

The Imperfects is brought to you by The Resilience Project. Produced by Ryan Shelton, Hugh van Cuylenburg & Josh van Cuylenburg. Mixed and mastered by Windmill Audio. A special thank you also to No Mono (Pie Eater) for generously allowing us to use ‘Keep On’ as the theme song for this podcast.

For more information and links to anything discussed in today’s episode, please visit: https://theresilienceproject.com.au/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the beginning of 2018, Christian O'Connell was the host of the number one breakfast radio show in England, he averaged over 2 million listeners a day, he'd won basically every award possible in the radio industry, he was seemingly on top of his world.

Unbeknownst to almost everyone in his life though, he could barely make it on the air. At the age of 45, Christian had started suffering debilitating panic attacks. And they were becoming an almost daily occurrence.

In this episode of The Imperfects, we talk with Christian about his anxiety & the panic attacks that nearly ended his career in radio. We chat about the life changing move him and his family have since made; we talk about being a vulnerable father; we talk about the challenges of starting a new in Australia...we talk about alot...it's a really good chat.

If this episode has triggered anything for you around mental health, we recommend lifeline, 13 11 14. The Imperfects is produced by Ryan Shelton, Hugh & Josh van Cuylenburg. A very special thanks to 'No Mono' for generously allowing us to use 'Keep On' as the theme song for this podcast.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

B-B-B-BONUS EP!!! A-A-A-AGAIN!!!

Every now and then, Hugh, Ryan and Josh like to get together and chat about their own imperfections that they’ve been dealing with recently. This is one of those episodes.

Hugh talks about “life seasons”, Ryan explains why European holidays aren’t always as perfect as they appear, and Josh talks about watching Morning Wars with Jennifer Anniston. 

To read Hugh’s recommendation of Kimberly Gillan’s article in the Age, ‘Are You In Tune With Your Life Season’, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Q6o4iC

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.