Take a Seat

Take a Seat with Robbie Sefton

In this episode of Take A Seat, we sit down with one of regional Australia’s most passionate and persistent advocates – Robbie Sefton. As the Managing Director of Seftons and Associates, a national communications and engagement firm based in the bush, Robbie is also a farmer, a leader on multiple national boards and a lifelong believer in the power of financial independence, community collaboration and straight-talking leadership. Robbie shares her reflections on the grit and vision it takes to build a business from rural Australia, the role of fear and financial pressure as fuel for innovation, and her commitment to seeing young people thrive in dynamic regional communities. From the thrill of the chase in business to the power of influence without ego, this conversation is a masterclass in authentic, values-led leadership. To find out more about  The Connection Table’s mission to get more rural Australians a seat at the decision making table, head to our website ⁠www.theconnectiontable.com⁠ [http://www.theconnectiontable.com] #ruralleadership #australianleadership #ruralleaders #leadership

Take a Seat with Lisa Millar

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Lisa Millar — award-winning ABC journalist and host of Muster Dogs. From growing up in a small Queensland town to covering terror attacks across Europe, Lisa shared the sliding door moments that have shaped her career, including a decade-long fear of flying that almost stopped her from chasing her childhood dream. We talked about saying yes (even when it’s scary), the power of reframing tough experiences, and why her rural upbringing has been one of her greatest assets. There were also triathlons, pelicans, and — in a moment of pure magic — a seal sighting mid-interview. Lisa’s story is one of grit, joy and deep empathy. This conversation left me inspired, and I know it’ll do the same for you. I hope you enjoy this conversation as I take a seat with Lisa Millar To find out more about  The Connection Table’s mission to get more rural Australians a seat at the decision making table, head to our website ⁠www.theconnectiontable.com⁠ [http://www.theconnectiontable.com] #ruralleadership #australianleadership #ruralleaders #leadership

Take a Seat with Shanna Whan

In this episode I’m joined by someone who needs no introduction in rural Australia – but deserves one anyway. Shanna Whan is a name synonymous with courage, candour and change. From her beginnings on a mountain in Africa, to her role as founder and CEO of Sober in the Country, Shanna’s journey has been anything but linear. Named Australian of the Year Local Hero in 2022 and more recently awarded an Order of Australia, Shanna speaks with raw honesty about what it means to be an ‘accidental leader’ in one of the most taboo spaces in the bush – alcohol addiction. In this episode, we talk about rural identity, leadership without the ego, the incredible power of speaking up, and how she’s building a legacy far bigger than herself. It’s real, it’s heartfelt, and it’s a conversation I hope stays with you long after you’ve listened. To find out more about  The Connection Table’s mission to get more rural Australians a seat at the decision making table, head to our website ⁠www.theconnectiontable.com⁠ [http://www.theconnectiontable.com] #ruralleadership #australianleadership #ruralleaders #leadership

Take a Seat with Danica Leys

Today’s guest is someone I’ve admired for years — Danica Leys, CEO of the Country Women’s Association of NSW. If you think the CWA is just scones and sponge cakes, think again. Under Danica’s leadership, the organisation has been a powerful voice for rural communities, tackling some of the state’s most pressing issues in health, education and agriculture. We talk about her unexpected journey from agronomy to law to leading one of Australia's most iconic member organisations, the power of lived experience in advocacy and what it takes to build visibility and influence in regional leadership. This is one for the rural change-makers — and anyone who’s ever wondered how one voice becomes many. To find out more about  The Connection Table’s mission to get more rural Australians a seat at the decision making table, head to our website ⁠www.theconnectiontable.com⁠ [http://www.theconnectiontable.com] #ruralleadership #australianleadership #ruralleaders #leadership

Take a Seat with Diana Gibbs

Diana Gibbs wasn’t born and raised in rural Australia but it has been her home for the last 50 years. Diana talks about her global upbringing, career as an economist in male dominated industries and how her first board role came about as a shoulder tap from NSW Premier Bob Carr after she won the inaugural Rural Women's Award. Diana gives some valuable advice on what is required to bring value to a board position and also about the importance of leaning into the fact that your leadership style will evolve with time. I hope you enjoy this conversation as I take a seat with Diana Gibbs.