Empowering Leaders

• Andy Walshe: Has Human Potential Peaked?

  In this mind-expanding episode of Empowering Leaders, Luke sits down with Dr. Andy Walshe, one of the world’s foremost experts on elite human performance. In this conversation, Andy invites us to reimagine performance—not as a solitary pursuit, but as a collective journey toward becoming more human in an increasingly technological world. With over two decades of experience working with Olympic athletes, cultural leaders, special forces, and pioneering innovators, Andy brings a rare depth of insight into what drives human excellence. As Director of High Performance at Red Bull, Andy led groundbreaking initiatives like the Red Bull Stratos mission—coaching Felix Baumgartner to the edge of space and back in a record-breaking leap that captivated the world. Now, as the Chief Performance Officer and founding member of Liminal Collective, he continues to push the frontiers of what’s possible in human potential. In this chat with Luke, Andy tells us how to unlock elite performance in any field, why empathy and curiosity are crucial tools for leaders and he drives home the importance of patience and self-compassion for our own personal growth. Andy and Luke also discuss what artificial intelligence means for the future of human capability. This episode is a masterclass in mindset, preparation, and leading with purpose. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Lorena Bernal: Authenticity Over Perfection

  In this episode of Empowering Leaders, Luke sits down with Lorena Bernal—a celebrated actress, model, and entrepreneur whose life and work are rooted in elegance, intention, and inner strength. With a career that spans global television hits like CSI: Miami, NCIS, and Chuck, as well as appearances on the covers of Elle, Marie Claire, and more, Lorena is no stranger to the spotlight. But it’s her off-screen journey that reveals a deeper, more inspiring story. Today, as the founder of Live Love Better, Lorena is redefining what it means to live with purpose—focusing on self-growth, mindfulness, and empowering women around the world to lead connected, intentional lives. Born in Argentina, raised in Spain, and educated in France, Lorena brings a global perspective to leadership, authenticity, and resilience. A proud mother of three boys and wife to Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta, she speaks candidly with Luke about the evolution of motherhood, the balance between personal and professional life, and the courage it takes to be true to yourself in every chapter of life. Throughout this heartfelt conversation, Lorena shares why perfection is the enemy of authenticity, the vision behind Live Love Better, and how mindfulness shaped her parenting and leadership style. This episode is filled with wisdom, warmth, and real-life insight from a woman who lives what she leads. Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Vincent Fantauzzo: The bravery, beauty and brilliance of a neurodivergent mind

  In this episode, Luke sits down with one of Australia’s most celebrated portrait artists, Vincent Fantauzzo. Known for capturing the souls of icons like Heath Ledger, Paul McCartney, and Australia’s first female Prime Minister - Julia Gillard, Vincent shares the raw and deeply personal journey behind his acclaimed work. From his early life in Melbourne’s commission housing to global success, Vincent embodies resilience, passion, and purpose. Vincent tells Luke how despite the challenges of severe dyslexia and leaving school at 14, he managed to carve a path through creativity, discipline, and sheer determination. Despite facing severe dyslexia and leaving school at 14, Vincent’s neurodivergence became a catalyst for his creative genius. His remarkable path is a testament to how different minds can lead us to powerful new perspectives. In this raw conversation, Vincent opens up about the emotional process of writing his memoir, how art became his therapy, and why human connection lies at the heart of every portrait he paints. He also reflects on the life-changing influence of his boxing coach and the importance of nurturing children’s individuality and passions. This episode is a celebration of creativity, courage, and the beauty of seeing—and thinking—differently. Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Pippa Grange: Leading with Soul in a World Obsessed with Winning

  In this episode, Luke Darcy is joined by Dr. Pippa Grange—renowned psychologist, author, and culture coach—for a moving and enlightening conversation on the soul of sport, the power of vulnerability, and the true meaning of performance. Best known for her groundbreaking work with England’s national football team, Pippa helped shift their fear-driven mindset into one of connection, courage, and psychological freedom. Her influence was pivotal in England’s transformative journey to the 2018 World Cup, and her character and her work is now being portrayed in the award-winning West End play Dear England that explores just how their success became possible. Pippa’s career began in Australia, advising several AFL teams, before taking on the role of Head of People and Team Development at the Football Association—home of the world’s oldest national football team. Her influence now reaches far beyond sport. Pippa and Luke discuss the dangers of shallow winning, the regenerative power of love and soul in competition, and the necessity of self-awareness and authentic connection in leadership. It’s a conversation that encourages you to start thinking about success as a deeper, more fulfilling expression of human potential. We’ve all felt the tension between high performance and personal wellbeing and Pippa has the salve. Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Bruce McAvaney: The voice behind the most unforgettable moments in Australian sport

  In the world of sports broadcasting, they don’t come much more accomplished - or beloved - than the one and only Bruce McAvaney. Throughout his career, Bruce has covered an incredible 12 summer Olympic games, 20 AFL Grand Finals, the world swimming and world athletic championships, Rugby World Cup, Melbourne Cup and a slew of others. In this episode, you’ll hear about the early influences that ignited Bruce’s passion for sport, the mentors who have supported him throughout his career, and why he remains dedicated to doing the same for up-and-coming broadcasters. Bruce’s almost encyclopaedic knowledge of the sporting world is undoubtedly a result of the extensive preparation he prides himself on, and he tells us why ‘being prepared’ is key advice he gives to young people wanting to follow their dreams. You'll also hear Bruce talk about the more challenging aspects of being a high-profile media personality, why he’s so excited about 17-year-old Australian sprinter, Gout Gout, how self-doubt still manages to creep in after all these years, and the iconic Olympic moment that caught him off guard. Watch this episode on 7Plus in Australia. If you enjoy listening to the Empowering Leaders podcast, be sure to subscribe and please, if you have a moment, leave a review for us so we can reach more listeners and empower more leaders. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head to Aleda Collective to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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