Beyond the Uniform: The Untold Stories

Episode 8 : Snakes and Ladders, the real cost of Military Life.

Episode 8 – Snakes and Ladders: The Hidden Cost of Military Life with Dr Barbara Morris In this episode, Dr Barbara Morris shares her powerful story of life as a Defence spouse and the unpredictable “snakes and ladders” of building a career while navigating constant relocations. Drawing on decades of lived experience and her PhD research, Barbara shines a light on the sacrifices, resilience, and realities   A quick note: The audio quality on this episode isn’t quite up to standard - we are working on the issue and appreciate your understanding.

Episode 7 : Love and Sacrifice

In this heartfelt episode of Beyond The Uniform: The Untold Stories, we sit down with  Army Warrant Officer Nicholas Barrand, his wife Tammie, and their daughters Reaghan and Zoe to explore what 30 years of service and more than 18 years as a Defence family really looks like. With 8 relocations, 5 schools, and the ever-present uncertainty that comes with military life, their journey is one of deep love, resilience, and unwavering commitment to each other. This is a story about sacrifice. But it’s also about strength, connection, and the quiet moments that often go unseen.

Episode 6 : Life After Service

We are honoured to welcome Shamsa Lea to the mic: an award-winning leader, senior Air Force veteran, and passionate advocate for gender equity. From deployments in Afghanistan, PNG, and the Middle East to executive roles across Defence, Deloitte, and now Anglicare WA, Shamsa’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. As co-founder of Propel Her Australia – the Defence Women’s Leadership Series and a sought-after keynote speaker, Shamsa shares powerful reflections on transitioning from service, leading with purpose, and redefining identity beyond the uniform.

Episode 5 : Connecting Communities

In this episode of Beyond The Uniform : The Untold Stories, we sit down with one of our biggest supporters, Sam Harris, CEO of Veteran Gaming Australia (VGA). Sam shares the incredible story behind VGA and how it is using gaming and shared 'geek' culture interests to foster connection, belonging, and purpose for Veterans and their families. From social gaming nights and e-sports teams to care packages and in-hospital gaming hubs, VGA is redefining support for the veteran community in powerful, practical ways. Tune in as we explore how passion-led initiatives are building bridges between service and civilian life—one game at a time. 🎮 Veterans are our Mission. Gaming is our Passion.

Episode 4 : Legacy & Heritage

Legacy & Heritage with Ray Rosendale  What does it mean to carry the weight of two legacies - one of ancient Indigenous culture and another forged through decades of military service? Meet Ray Rosendale, a proud Kuku Yalanji man, Navy veteran, and the first-ever Navy Strategic Advisor on Indigenous Cultural Affairs. From serving in the Gulf War to mentoring Indigenous youth… From earning First Class Honours in Social Work to leading national wellbeing programs for Movember… Ray’s story is one of service, resilience, and deep cultural pride and in this episode, he opens up like never before.