Follow the Leader

Hosted by ECU Alumni

Business EducationInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-AU

About the show

Follow the career journeys of leading ECU Alumni, in this podcast hosted and created by ECU students. You’ll hear insights from alumni in a range of different professions, as well as tips from how to get your big break, to how to succeed in your career, & more!

Listen to episodes

24 recent

June 2, 202638 min

Fire in the Belly: Laura Hunter on Public Health, Tobacco Control & Finding Your Path

In this episode of Follow the Leader , host Cassie Silver sits down with Laura Hunter , CEO of the Australian Council on Smoking and Health and ECU science graduate. Laura shares how a Bachelor of Science in nutrition and human biology led to a purpose-driven career in public health advocacy. She reflects on formative ECU experiences, the power of volunteering and mentoring, and her fierce commitment to tackling youth vaping and tobacco harm. A must-listen for students and graduates seeking meaningful, impact-focused careers

May 27, 202524 min

From Olympics to Super Bowl - Dave Hamilton's Performance Journey

This podcast features Dave Hamilton, Director of Performance Science for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. From Olympic coaching to winning the Super Bowl, Dave shares insider insights into elite athlete development, career transitions, and the secrets of high-performance sports. Discover how Dave navigated different sports, worked with world-class athletes like Tom Brady, and learned the true meaning of success. Packed with practical advice and inspiring stories for sports enthusiasts, students, and aspiring professionals looking to understand the world of elite athletic performance.

April 15, 202535 min

From Sydney to the Outback: A Male Midwife's Journey through ECU and Beyond, with Christian Wright

In this episode ECU alumnus Christian Wright shares his journey into midwifery. Christian initially had no plans to pursue this field but became inspired by the high rates of preventable maternal deaths in developing countries. Christian describes his positive experience at ECU, highlighting the unique practitioner model and the strong support he received from lecturers and peers, even as the only male student. He emphasises the importance of the networking opportunities provided by ECU, which led to valuable connections and experiences, including his work with a midwifery-led charity in Papua New Guinea. Christian's story provides an insightful look into the midwifery profession, the benefits of an ECU education, and the power of taking risks to pursue a meaningful career path. Listeners will come away with a deeper appreciation for the role of midwives, especially those who bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the field. Episode hosted by Cam Black, John Van Emmenis, Cameron Purdy and Emily Kroonenburg

March 24, 202544 min

Navigating the Corporate Ladder, with Candis Rhodes

In this episode, we sit down with Candice Rhodes, an ECU alumna who has built an impressive career at Rio Tinto. Candice shares how her time at ECU, including her degree and experiences, shaped her professional journey. Candice provides insights on navigating the corporate ladder, the importance of soft skills, and maintaining work-life balance. She also discusses diversity, inclusion, and the power of mentorship in developing resilience. Episode hosted by Cam Black, John Van Emmenis, Cameron Purdy and Emily Kroonenburg

February 18, 202533 min

From student to Artistic Director, a journey in theatre, with Amelia Burke

Amelia Burke is the Artistic Director of the Western Australian Youth Theatre Company, where she oversees their workshops, training programs, and productions. In the interview, Amelia discusses how her time at ECU shaped her approach to directing and prepared her for a career in the performing arts industry. She talks about the obstacles she faced transitioning from student to professional, and how the connections and mentors she gained at ECU helped her find her path. Amelia also shares insights into her creative process, what inspires her work, and the most fulfilling aspects of her career in theatre. Overall, the podcast provides an insightful look into Amelia's journey from ECU student to established theatre director, offering valuable advice and perspectives for aspiring performing arts professionals. Episode hosted by Cam Black, John Van Emmenis, Cameron Purdy and Emily Kroonenburg

June 6, 2024Episode 634 min

Pursuing a passion for performance - a journey from player to coach, with Tom Carter

While most university students juggle a part time job while they are studying, few juggle a professional sporting career. But Tom Carter did exactly that. In the final few years of his time playing rugby union for the New South Wales Waratahs, Tom completed a Master of Exercise Science (Strength and Conditioning) through ECU. When his playing career ended, Tom founded his company Human Performance, working as a consultant, sports scientist and movement coach to professional athletes and sporting teams. Since 2019 he has also worked at Rugby Australia, currently the Head of Athletic Performance for the Australian Women’s Rugby Sevens, with the team currently preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics. In this episode of Follow the Leader, you'll get insights into Tom's journey from a top-level rugby player, to a top-level Strength and Conditioning coach, helping develop Australia's best athletes.

May 23, 2024Episode 543 min

A Conductor's Journey: From Violinist to Head of Orchestral Studies at WAAPA, with Jessica Gethin

Jessica Gethin is an award-winning conductor who has captivated audiences worldwide with her exceptional musicianship and dynamic performances. Jessica has earnt acclaim as one of the 'Top Twenty Australian Artists of the Year' by Limelight Magazine and a place in the 'Top 100 Women of Influence' by AFR. Her impact extends beyond her musical prowess; she is a passionate advocate for women in music, serving as Ambassador for Perth Symphony's Women on the Podium initiative. Her leadership both on and off the podium has inspired a new generation of artistic leaders, elevating emerging women artists in her wake. In this wide-ranging episode, Jessica talks about her full circle journey from WAAPA as a student, to returning to WAAPA as the Head of Orchestral Studies, the obstacles she’s overcome throughout her illustrious career, and shares her tips for aspiring musicians. Episode hosted by Jack Fenwick and Olivia Nanut Edited by Olivia Nanut

May 9, 2024Episode 432 min

From Perth to Enstone, what it's like to work in Formula 1, with Kieran Fazey

ECU Engineering graduate Kieran Fazey has been able to achieve what most motorsports students can only dream of - working as a surface design engineer for Formula 1 team, Alpine. In this episode, Kieran talks about his journey from the ECU student racing team to working in Formula 1, the highs (and lows) of working in the high pressure environment of F1, and shares his tips on how to crack into this incredibly competitive industry. If you're an aspiring motorsports engineer, or you've watched Drive to Survive and love the drama of F1, this episode is one not to miss! Episode hosted by Jack Fenwick and Olivia Nanut Edited by Mya Wilkin

April 23, 2024Episode 341 min

Creating impactful marketing campaigns for international brands, with Rebecca Smith

Having led marketing strategies for incredibly influential global brands including frank green and L’Oreal, Rebecca Smith has established an impressive career as a marketing leader, specialising in using ecommerce and social media campaigns to drive business growth. In this chat, you’ll gain insight into some of the marketing campaigns Rebecca has worked on, as well as valuable advice on networking, staying up-to-date with marketing trends, and inspiring content creators. Rebecca also opens up about overcoming anxiety to pursue new opportunities. This really is an inspiring story of entrepreneurship, marketing strategies, and personal growth. Episode hosted by Georgia Clark and Annabelle Hughes and edited by Campbell Greaves

April 10, 2024Episode 247 min

Pivoting between industries for career growth, with Ben Smith

Ben Smith has had quite the career journey to date. Having originally studied sports management, Ben started off in the sports industry, working his way up over time to become Head of Commercial Operations at Basketball Australia, before changing direction into General Manager roles with high profile FMCG brands, 2XU and frank green. Ben discusses how he has been able to pivot between sectors to find new opportunities for growth and learn valuable skills. Ben also offers insights on how he’s balanced family life while traveling extensively. He reflects on key decisions, relationships, and values that have shaped his path and success. Episode hosted by Georgia Clark and Isobella Boros and edited by Mya Wilkin