The Glitter Effect

Give Them a Chance and Watch Them Shine with Julie Fisher

In this episode of The Glitter Effect, host Kate interviews Julie Fisher, a passionate inclusion advocate and author whose work is inspired by her son Darcy, who has Down syndrome. Julie shares how her journey began with a prenatal diagnosis that allowed her to prepare her community to welcome Darcy with celebration rather than pity. This lived experience fueled her transition into a public speaker and author of five books, where she challenges organizations to move beyond “ticking boxes” and toward genuine belonging. Julie highlights the importance of curiosity over judgment, explaining that most people who stare or hesitate are simply unsure of how to interact. By choosing to smile and encourage questions—even from curious children—she has found that barriers often dissolve into kindness. She emphasizes that whether in schools or workplaces, providing the right support allows individuals with disabilities to “shine” and contribute meaningfully to society. Ultimately, Julie’s story is one of resilience and systemic change. She notes that while there is still progress to be made, the younger generation is naturally more inclusive and accepting of differences. Her core message to parents and community leaders alike is to never navigate this path alone; by seeking support and leading with an open heart, we can create a world where every person feels seen and valued. Website: www.juliefisher.com.au [http://www.juliefisher.com.au] Facebook: The Unexpected Journey

Turning Tragedy into Impact with James “Woody” Wood

In this powerful episode of The Glitter Effect, Kate sits down with James “Woody” Wood, a former diesel mechanic whose life was irrevocably changed by a workplace accident. James shares his journey from a young, ambitious apprentice in the mining industry to becoming a leading safety advocate who travels across Australia to prevent others from making the same life-altering mistakes he did. The Power of Choice: James emphasizes that his injury wasn’t just an “accident”—it was the result of specific choices (speeding and not wearing a seatbelt). Lived Experience as a Mission: Through his organization CNB Safe, James uses his “confronting and impactful” story to create ripple effects in workplace safety culture. Resilience: The transition from a manual laborer to a speaker who refuses to let his disability define his potential. “The choices that I made that day caused me to get hurt… I’ve been in a wheelchair for over half my life.”

Compassion and community – Ambulance Wish Queensland.

In this heartfelt episode of The Glitter Effect, host Kate welcomes a woman who truly embodies compassion, community leadership, and the spirit of making a meaningful difference: Louise O’Neill, CEO of Palliative Care Queensland and the visionary behind the beautiful and deeply human program, Ambulance Wish Queensland. Louise shares her incredible journey from hospital-trained registered nurse to senior leadership roles across health, disability, and aged care, culminating in her recent appointment as CEO. With trademark humility and warmth, she opens up about the unexpected path that led her into nursing—despite her early dreams of veterinary science and a detour through law school—and the deep-rooted family influences that instilled her lifelong commitment to care. Kate and Louise explore the vital work of Palliative Care Queensland, a peak advocacy and charity organisation dedicated to supporting clinicians, hospices, patients, and families across the state. Louise speaks candidly about the challenges of fostering conversations around death in a “death-denying society,” and the organisation’s mission to ensure that every Queenslander facing end-of-life receives compassionate, holistic support. This conversation is filled with humanity, humour, and heart. From Louise’s honest reflections on career twists to the inspiring purpose behind her work in palliative care, this episode is a moving reminder of the impact one person can have when they lead with empathy. A beautiful, grounding, and deeply touching conversation you won’t forget. Ambulance Wish Queensland: https://ambulancewishqld.org.au/ [https://ambulancewishqld.org.au/]

Turning the Tables: Kate Gniel and the Power of Community Glitter

✨ In this heartwarming and inspiring episode of The Glitter Effect, host Jules Brooke flips the script by interviewing the show’s very own creator and community champion, Kate Gniel. Known for her tireless commitment to connection, kindness, and giving back, Kate opens up about the experiences that shaped her passion for helping others — from her childhood efforts to raise money for the RSPCA to the powerful community response when her young son, Harvey, battled cancer. Kate shares how that moment of collective compassion ignited a lifelong mission to “spread the glitter” — shining a light on those who make a difference in their neighborhoods and beyond. She talks about her early work in public relations for not-for-profits, her grassroots initiatives like The League of Gentlemen (a pioneering men’s mental health support network), and how these experiences led her to launch The Glitter Effect podcast and its upcoming book and speaking tour. Throughout the episode, Jules and Kate explore what it truly means to live with purpose and heart, to find joy in service, and to recognise the everyday legends who keep our communities shining. 💖 Key Takeaways: How a personal story of resilience and community support can spark a lifelong mission. The origins of Kate’s “glitter effect” and why giving back is contagious. The importance of connection, kindness, and vulnerability in building stronger communities. Sneak peek into The Glitter Effect’s future projects — including a book and live events. 🎧 Perfect For: Listeners who love stories of hope, purpose, and people doing good; anyone looking for inspiration to make a difference in their own community. The Glitter Effect: https://theglittereffect.com.au/ [https://theglittereffect.com.au/]

Jules Brooke – helping women over 45 own their stories, confidence and the stage

✨ In this inspiring episode of The Glitter Effect, we shine a spotlight on the phenomenal Jules Brooke — a powerhouse in PR, media, and entrepreneurship, and a woman on a mission to elevate the visibility of women in business, especially those over 45. Host Kate reconnects with Jules, a long-time mentor and collaborator, to unpack the journey that shaped her passion for helping women step confidently into the spotlight. Jules shares how a turning point at age 50, combined with the unexpected shake-up of the pandemic, sparked a renewed sense of purpose. A chance TV interview in 2019 led her to hosting her own show, where she uncovered startling inequities facing women in business — from lack of funding opportunities to limited representation on public platforms. Realizing the confidence crisis many women over 50 face, Jules launched initiatives to help them start businesses, build community, and break through the isolation that often comes with entrepreneurship. In her signature “super connector” style, she has brought countless women together to collaborate, grow, and shine. Jules also discusses her latest mission: increasing the number of women speaking on stages. After discovering that only 30% of speakers are women, she created the Australian Women’s Speakers directory to help event organizers find talented female voices and to encourage women to claim paid speaking opportunities with confidence. This episode dives into the why behind women’s visibility challenges, the systemic gaps holding them back, and the powerful cultural moment that makes now the perfect time to amplify women’s stories. Packed with energy, wisdom, and plenty of sparkle, this conversation is a celebration of women of experience — and the change agents like Jules who champion them. She’s the boss: https://julesbrooke.com/shestheboss/ [https://julesbrooke.com/shestheboss/]