Awesome Humans

AH110 - Sam Mackinnon | Olympic Hoops, Fatherhood & Battling NBA Legends Like LeBron and Shaq

In this episode of Awesome Humans, host Brett McCallum sits down with Australian basketball legend Sam Mackinnon for a wide-ranging, often hilarious, and deeply human conversation. From his early days growing up in Melbourne, juggling football and basketball dreams, to his rise through the NBL and international tournaments—including Olympic battles against LeBron James and Shaquille O’Neal—Sam shares what it’s really like behind the stats. The chat spans career highlights, personal struggles, his coaching philosophy, and the journey of raising a basketball-playing son in today’s fast-paced sporting world. Show Notes Sponsored by: Official Beer Co - GC Lager In this episode: * Sam's early memories and why he nearly played AFL * Being recruited in Year 11 and signing his first NBL contract at 17 * Playing against LeBron, Shaq, Scottie Pippen and the Dream Team * What it was like representing Australia at the Olympics * The highs and lows of a long career: MVPs, injuries, and setbacks * Transitioning to coaching and building the Taranaki Airs into a contender * His perspective on fatherhood, divorce, and raising elite kids in sport * Life lessons from basketball—and what’s next Quickfire Q&A: Favourite food? (Steak!) | Favourite place? (Sunshine Beach) | Most proud of? (His kids)

AH109 - Dane Swan

Host Brett McCallum sits down with former AFL star Dane Swan to explore his journey from a footy-loving kid to one of the game’s greats.  He opens up about his early memories, the highs and lows of professional sport, and the unique energy of playing on Anzac Day. As well as life beyond the game (including personal passions, from the stories behind his tattoos to unforgettable moments with football legends), future aspirations, and the joys of family. Reflecting on his career, he shares what it meant to win the prestigious Brownlow Medal, the pressures that came with it, and why team camaraderie mattered more than individual accolades.

AH108 - Jarrod Wallace

In this episode of Awesome Humans, host Brett McCallum sits down with former NRL star Jarrod Wallace for an honest, no-holds-barred chat about life on and off the field. Jarrod takes us back to his early days, sharing memories of his childhood, the journey that led him to professional rugby league, and the pivotal role coach Wayne Bennett played in shaping his career. They dive into the highs and lows of life in the NRL—overcoming injuries, switching teams, and the behind-the-scenes dynamics that make or break team chemistry. Jarrod opens up about the personal challenges athletes face, from media scrutiny to balancing family life with the demands of elite sport. He also reflects on playing for a cause, the influential players who left their mark on him, and his bold decision to continue his career in France—cultural shocks and all. As he discusses his transition out of professional rugby, Jarrod reveals his newfound passion for radio, his aspirations for the future, and why family will always be his greatest motivation. It’s a raw, inspiring, and sometimes surprising conversation with one of rugby league’s most genuine voices.

AH107 - Hayley Melidonis

In this episode of Awesome Humans, Brett welcomes Hayley Melidonis, a former global business development professional turned entrepreneur. In this engaging conversation, Hayley shares her transformative journey through travel, career changes, and personal growth. From her experiences in Japan during the Olympics to her transition into the tech industry, she reflects on how these moments shaped her identity and aspirations. Enjoy!

AH106 - Justine Jade

In this episode of Awesome Humans, Brett interviews Justine Jade, a multifaceted creative who shares her journey from a new-age upbringing to a profound spiritual awakening in Mexico. Justine discusses her experiences with somatic therapy, her transition from atheism to faith in Jesus, and the complexities of her identity and relationships. The conversation explores her early life, family background, and career beginnings in radio, comedy, and music, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way. Enjoy!