The High-Performance Myth: Reclaiming Your Life and Leadership with Roni Millard

The High-Performance Myth: Reclaiming Your Life and Leadership with Roni Millard

In this powerful episode of The Glitter Effect, host Kate sits down with Roni Millard, the founder of The Wellbeing Edge. With nearly three decades of experience in high-stakes global leadership roles, Roni appeared to have it all from the outside. However, she pulls back the curtain on the silent toll that “addiction to pressure” takes on high-performing professionals. Roni shares her deeply personal transition from Egyptian-born marketing leader to a health and wellness advocate in Sydney, sparked by a series of significant health crises—culminating in a 2020 breast cancer diagnosis—that forced her to stop viewing burnout as a badge of honor. The conversation dives deep into the “systematic shift” required in modern leadership. Roni explains that true productivity isn’t found in 14-hour days or midnight emails, but in the psychological safety and holistic wellness of a team. She details how her lived experience allows her to partner with C-suite executives and organizations to bridge the gap between commercial KPIs and human health. By sharing her “life humps” and the discipline she now applies to her own vitality, Roni offers a roadmap for anyone looking to achieve professional excellence without sacrificing their sense of self. Website: wellbeingedge.com [http://In this powerful episode of The Glitter Effect, host Kate sits down with Ronnie Millard, the founder of The Wellbeing Edge. With nearly three decades of experience in high-stakes global leadership roles, Ronnie appeared to have it all from the outside. However, she pulls back the curtain on the silent toll that "addiction to pressure" takes on high-performing professionals. Ronnie shares her deeply personal transition from Egyptian-born marketing leader to a health and wellness advocate in Sydney, sparked by a series of significant health crises—culminating in a 2020 breast cancer diagnosis—that forced her to stop viewing burnout as a badge of honor. The conversation dives deep into the "systematic shift" required in modern leadership. Ronnie explains that true productivity isn't found in 14-hour days or midnight emails, but in the psychological safety and holistic wellness of a team. She details how her lived experience allows her to partner with C-suite executives and organizations to bridge the gap between commercial KPIs and human health. By sharing her "life humps" and the discipline she now applies to her own vitality, Ronnie offers a roadmap for anyone looking to achieve professional excellence without sacrificing their sense of self. Website: wellbeingedge.com]

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/]