Riverland Women

Suzi Evans - Building mental fitness

In this episode of Riverland Women, Kerrie Lush speaks with Suzi Evans from Mantung — a passionate advocate for mental fitness. After the devastating loss of her only son to suicide, and supporting her husband Mick through a life-threatening illness, Suzi found purpose in helping others. She shares how studying positive psychology, training in mental health first aid, and developing her own program, Workbench for the Mind, became tools for both her own healing and for supporting her community. Suzi opens up about: * Navigating grief and trauma * Supporting a loved one through illness * How mental fitness differs from mental health * Simple strategies to build resilience every day * The importance of accessible tools between "zero to psychologist" Her story is one of strength, determination, and finding purpose after tragedy. Resources & Links: Follow Suzi on Instagram: @suzi_evans Find out more about Suzi's workshops, book, and podcast here [https://www.suzievans.com] Follow Riverland Women: Instagram & Facebook: @riverlandwomen Website: The Podcast Station [https://five.libsyn.com/]

Kat Dawson - Searching for Siblings

Imagine discovering you had hundreds of siblings you had never met… In this episode of Riverland Women, I sit down with Kat Dawson. After learning she was conceived through anonymous sperm donation, she began searching for her biological connections. What she never expected was the sheer scale—she could have up to 700 siblings… maybe even more. Now, Kat is on a mission to track down as many of them as possible—not just to connect, but to share crucial information about significant mental and physical health concerns that could impact them all. Before we get into that, we talk about Kat Dawson, the person—her love for music, life growing up in the Riverland, and what drives her passion for uncovering the truth. 📌 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: Riverland Women 🌐 Visit www.thepodcaststation.com.au [http://www.thepodcaststation.com.au/] to learn more about podcast production, coaching workshops, one-on-one sessions, and family history recordings. 🎧 Thank you for listening to Riverland Women! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and share.

Caroline Phillips - Making the most out of the Murraylands

In this episode of Riverland Women, Kerrie Lush sits down with Caroline Phillips, the dynamic Mayor of Karoonda East Murray. Caroline shares her story, from growing up on her family's farm in Wynarka to studying abroad in Norway, dressing up as a Caramello Koala in Rundle Mall and eventually becoming a driving force behind some of the most exciting projects in her local community. Caroline talks about the inspiration behind the iconic Karoonda silo art project, how she helped create the town's first childcare and afterschool care facility, and her commitment to upgrading local infrastructure to benefit both residents and tourists alike. We also dive into her earlier career in tourism and marketing, her passion for giving back, and what it's like to balance leadership with family life. Topics Covered: * Caroline's upbringing on the farm and her journey back to the Riverland after studying and working in Adelaide and Norway * The Karoonda silo art project and how it's putting the town on the map * Caroline's work to develop the first childcare and afterschool care facility in Karoonda * Key upgrades to community infrastructure, including caravan parks, playgrounds, and sporting facilities * Her transition from marketing and tourism to local government leadership * Caroline's volunteer roles and her passion for the Riverland and Murraylands communities. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on your podcast platform and following Riverland Women for more inspiring stories from our incredible community. You can also connect with us on social media to stay up-to-date on future episodes and behind-the-scenes content. The Podcast Station [https://www.thepodcaststation.com.au]

Pat Mickan - Olympic Dreams and Riverland Roots

Riverland Women: Episode Summary Guest: Pat Mickan In this episode of Riverland Women, we sit down with one of the Riverland's most accomplished athletes, Pat Mickan. Growing up in Renmark, Pat's sporting talent took her from local courts to the international stage, representing Australia in basketball at two Olympic Games and three World Championships as a member of the Australian Opals. Pat shares her incredible journey, from playing both basketball and netball at elite levels to becoming a coach, journalist, and even a business owner in Renmark. She reflects on her memories from her hometown, the challenges and triumphs of competing globally, and how the world of sport has evolved. Recently widowed, Pat also opens up about the personal side of her life, discussing how she's navigating this new chapter with strength and resilience. Key Topics Discussed: * Pat's early life and connection to Renmark * Representing Australia in three Olympic Games and three World Championships * Balancing basketball and netball at elite levels * Transitioning into coaching, journalism, and business * Her recent loss and moving forward into the next stage of life * Reflections on the evolution of women's sports This episode is a testament to Pat's enduring spirit, her love for her community, and her remarkable achievements in sport and life. The Podcast Station [https://www.thepodcaststation.com.au]

Dr Corina Sims - Building strength from struggle

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Corina Sims, a rural GP and obstetrician from Renmark, who shares her incredible journey from a challenging childhood in the United States to becoming a doctor in Australia. Corina reflects on her upbringing, marked by domestic violence, addiction, and instability, and how these experiences shaped her resilience and drive. We explore her move to Australia, the impact of her new life on her children, and her passion for supporting women's health through her podcast, "Opt to Thrive." This episode highlights themes of overcoming adversity, embracing change, and making the most of life's opportunities. Corina's story is one of strength, tenacity, and her commitment to empowering women.