Have you ever felt excluded? Or like you don't belong? It turns out that belonging is a fundamental human need. To thrive, we need to feel safe, we need to feel welcome, but very importantly, we need to know the tribe has our back. 

In this Academy of Imperfection, Hugh, Ryan and Josh chat to founder of Good Human, Rana Hussain. Rana is a host of The Outer Sanctum podcast, a board member of Reconciliation Australia and consultant to a plethora of elite sporting clubs on bettering their diversity and inclusion strategies.

In this episode, she shares how to get curious in a respectful way, why listening is everything and how to live a life true to your identity. Ohh and there's a pretty incredible love story in the ep as well!  

Rana, it was an absolute joy, and you definitely left us better than you found us.

To watch this full episode on YouTube, follow this link -

💻Things to check out

• Good Human - https://www.goodhuman.au
• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs - https://bit.ly/4dsy3KX

🎧Things to listen to

• The Outer Sanctum - https://spoti.fi/3WJ9iCU
• Pallavi Sharda - Where We Belong - https://apple.co/3M3iEV5
• Dr Emily - Other People Matter - https://apple.co/3M4A8k8

📖Things to read

• Belonging: The Ancient Code of Togetherness by Owen Eastwood - https://amzn.to/3M7s16l

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

‘The Inspired Unemployed’ began when a couple of tradies, Jack Steele and Matt ‘Falcon’ Ford, began an Instagram to catalogue the skits they were writing and filming overseas.

Since then, Jack and Falcon have launched Australia’s fastest selling beer, collaborated with Fendi and Louis Vuitton, have 2 million followers on Instagram, launched a podcast exclusive to Spotify AND star in their own TV show The Inspired Unemployed (Impractical) Jokers. Life, from the outside, seems pretty much perfect.

In this Vulnerabilitea House we chat with Jack Steele about his fear of losing relevance. Extremely generous in his vulnerability, Jack opens up about his terrifying panic attacks, anxiety over not being productive; his ADHD diagnosis; and what it’s like to live and work with your best mate, while still trying to be, well, best mates.

Jack, we’re in love with you.

To watch this full episode on YouTube, click this link: https://youtu.be/xxAx0kOOAo8 

🎧Things to listen to:

• Hamish MacDonald- How To Be You - https://bit.ly/4dhN8Ph

📖Things to read:

• ADHD 2.0 - Edward Hallowell - https://bit.ly/4dlE8IP

📱Things to scroll:

• The Inspired Unemployed on Instagram - https://bit.ly/4dDpdtm

📺Things to watch:

• The Inspired Unemployed (Impractical) Jokers - https://bit.ly/4fGD2Jm
• Anomalisa - https://bit.ly/3Avx1il

📋Things to do:

• Maria’s Resilience First Aid Training - https://bit.ly/4dEYzQT

👨‍🦲Things for hair loss

• Hugh’s hairspray product - https://bit.ly/3yuh4ss
• Finasteride (please note this a prescription product and should only be used after a consultation with your GP) - https://bit.ly/3WNw2BI

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last season we met Chanel Contos from Teach Us Consent and we were completely blown away by her courage and the work she's taking on. So much so, that within minutes of Hugh opening and reading Chanel’s book, “Consent Laid Bare”, he had nominated her for Australian of The Year. 

In this snippet from the full episode, Hugh, Ryan, Josh and Chanel discuss the normalised and systemic nature of sexual violence against women and the pervasive issue of rape culture; including what it is and how we can all take steps to dismantle it. 

To learn more about Chanel, her work and the Teach Us Consent campaign, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3QVhlK0

🎧 Things to listen to

• Chanel Contos - https://bit.ly/3RNKpEm 

📖 Things to read

• Consent Laid Bare - https://bit.ly/40Z0Xgh

• To view a version of the 'rape culture pyramid' - https://bit.ly/49XPFgh

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you look up ‘Nedd Brockmann’ in the dictionary you won’t find anything because it’s a proper noun. But if you google ‘Nedd Brockmann’, you’ll see the true meaning of ‘legendary’.

For 46 days in 2022, Nedd ran 100km a day from Cottesloe Beach to Bondi Beach, literally RUNNING ACROSS THE ENTIRE COUNTRY.

Why? That’s the best part. Nedd (23!) not only wanted to raise $1m for homelessness (it’s currently at $2.5m - link below to donate), but he also wanted to inspire people and show them they’re more capable than they think they are.

But as Nedd explains to a stunned Hugh, Ryan and Josh, this superhuman feat came at great cost to Nedd’s physical and mental health.

To donate to We Are Mobilise for Nedd's Record Run, please follow this link: https://www.neddsrecordrun.com/

To learn more about the charity group We Are Mobilise, follow this link: https://wearemobilise.com/

To listen to our episode with Harry Garside, follow this link: https://apple.co/3UNSzMy

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Emily is back with Hugh, Ryan and Josh for the final Emisode of the year, and she’s chosen to talk about something we can all relate to in one way or another… loneliness.

In reflecting on last year’s raw episode with Christian O’Connell (link below), Dr Emily deep-dives into the many facets of loneliness.

- Why do we feel lonely?

- How do we handle our own loneliness?

- What can we do to help others who feel lonely?

The holiday season is approaching, which for some of us signals a happy time spent with the people we love. However for many of us, it can highlight feelings of loneliness. But like anything, the more we understand it, the more we can help ourselves and each other.

As always, Dr Emily is here to help.

To listen to Christian O'Connell's Imperfects episode, follow this link: https://apple.co/3TxWonu


The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re doing it. Well… there’s no turning back now.

Hugh, Ryan and Josh are going live on tour around the country with a stage show that they promise will be some of the most imperfect shows they’ve ever done. Live. Uncut. 100% guaranteed imperfection!

The Imperfects… LIVE ON STAGE in 2023

Special pre-sale tickets available from November 11-14 2022

Tickets available from livenation.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you haven't heard Part 1 of our chat with Lune founder and master-baker, Kate Reid, we recommend you do that first. Because this episode, the sequel in our Croissantology, continues Kate's miraculous story as she attempts to overcome an eating disorder that forced her to leave her dream career in Formula 1.

Here, Kate explains how she did that by going all in on creating the "perfect" croissant. And how that croissant launched a new pastry obsession for Melbournians, which eventually led to the pastry empire that is now Lune.

This inspiring story is one of hope and resilience and... well, it will make you want a croissant... desperately.

To purchase Kate's new cook book, 'Lune, Crossiants All Day, All Night' follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Nlp0z5

If you or someone you know is experiencing an eating disorder or body image issues, The Butterfly Foundation is a fantastic resource and support. Please follow this link: butterfly.org.au

For family and carer support, and to learn more about the organisation Hugh spoke about in part 1, contact Eating Disorders Families Australia, or follow this link: edfa.org.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lune is highly regarded as the most respected patisserie in Australia. The New York Times even called the Lune croissant the best in the world. And the woman behind it all is Kate Reid, a former Aerospace Engineer at the Williams F1 Team in the UK.

Kate’s story has to be heard to be believed. It’s so epic, we had to break it into 2 parts.

In Part 1, Kate talks about her time at Williams, and generously shares her struggles with anorexia, which eventually forced her to end her F1 dream and return home to Australia for her recovery.

In Part 2, Kate tells the inspiring story of how she created Lune Croissanterie, and how she’s learned to embrace the fact that her world-renowned croissant will never be perfect.

JUST. LIKE. US.

To purchase Kate's new cook book, 'Lune, Crossiants All Day, All Night' follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Nlp0z5

If you or someone you know is experiencing an eating disorder or body image issues, The Butterfly Foundation is a fantastic resource and support. Please follow this link: butterfly.org.au

For family and carer support, and to learn more about the organisation Hugh spoke about in the episode contact Eating Disorders Families Australia, or follow this link: edfa.org.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

4000 weeks. Like it or not, that’s (approximately) the average length of a human life. And while we intend to use that time wisely, and do all the things we care about, we often find ourselves doing the opposite.

In this episode, UK author Oliver Burkeman tells us how to focus on the things that REALLY matter, rather than filling our time with the not-so-important things. Pulling from his best-selling (and incredible) book, Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management For Mortals, Oliver is this week’s lecturer in The Academy of Imperfection.

For Josh and Ryan, this book has already changed the way they are approaching their own 4000 weeks, and after hearing this episode, they hope you will also embrace your limitations and accept all the things you simply don't have time to do - no matter how much you think you want to do them.

To learn more about Oliver's work and to subscribe to his newsletter, The Imperfectionist, follow this link: www.oliverburkeman.com

To purchase Oliver's Book, 4000 Weeks, Time and How to Use It (the Australian release), follow this link: https://bit.ly/3F6AsMM

For productivity app recommendation 'Things 3', follow this link: https://apple.co/3THRVjn

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a DJ, TV presenter, award-winning podcaster and Triple J royalty, Linda Marigliano has had a big career and spoken to some of the biggest artists of all time. And now she joins Hugh, Ryan and Josh in The Vulnerabilitea House.

Linda talks about her life growing up as the child of an Italian father and Chinese mother, and explains about how the criticism she received from her mother made her feel about herself - both then and now.

Oh, and there’s some very practical advice on nose-hair trimming, thanks to Linda’s Mum, Janet.

To listen to Linda's podcast, 'Tough Love', follow this link: https://apple.co/3EGNIrg

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After listening to this Academy of Imperfection, you’ll no doubt be heartily agreeing with Hugh, who introduces Dr Kiran Martin as the most impressive person he’s ever met.

Over 30 years after jumping the fence to get inside a slum in Delhi so she could help treat the people in need, Dr Kiran now runs ASHA, an organisation she created that has helped over 900,000 people in over 100 slums across India. And counting!

This is the story behind ASHA. And well… it’s incredible.

But as this is an Academy, you will also learn things! Later in the episode, Dr Kiran shares her values around leadership and gratitude and explains the impact we can all have, when we simply “insist on the truth”.

To learn more about Asha and to donate, follow this link: https://asha-india.org/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

None of us like to feel rejected. Whether it be at work, with friends, or on a date.

In this Dr Emisode, Dr Emily - our very own psychologist - tells Hugh, Ryan and Josh why some of us have a sensitivity to rejection. She explains what we can do about it, and how we can act compassionately towards others, and avoid making them feel unnecessarily rejected as well.

For research article, 'Recognising Emotion In Faces: Developmental Effects of Child Abuse and Neglect', by Seth Pollak, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3CqDee9

For research reference and book recommendation, 'The Joy of Movement', by Kelly McGonigal follow this link: https://bit.ly/3fv6Uhb

To watch the Ted Lasso clip about making yourself feel confident through movement, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3dTVYcF


The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While many of us may think of Channel 7’s Hamish McLachlan as the voice of sport in Australia, Hamish is very quick to point to Bruce McAvaney instead. As it turns out, we all love Bruce McAvaney A LOT and apologetically talk about him for quite a while - including a few wonderful Bruce stories from Hamish.

When we finally get to the Vulnerabilitea House card selection, Hamish answers the question, ‘When did your life get turned upside down and how did things change?’. This prompts Hamish to show incredible vulnerability and recount two formative events from his family life, and how they’ve reframed his own relationship with the meaning of “challenging times”.

For book recommendation, '4000 Weeks', by Oliver Burkeman, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3C4G6x3

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What would it feel like to have the very thing that mad you great - your body, strength and co-ordination - slowly and painfully taken away from you?

As a swimmer, Michael Klim was on top of the world - he was literally ‘World Swimmer of the Year’. Trips to the Olympics, medals of every colour, 21 world records AND his face on the cover of a Foo Fighters Album, Michael really did have it all.

However, in 2022 Michael was diagnosed with a life changing condition, wherein your body attacks it’s own tissue - chronic inflammatory demyelination polyneuropathy (CIDP).

In this episode, Hugh, Ryan and Josh chat to Michael about his equally impressive life out of the pool, and how his CIDP diagnosis has taught him a lot about identity, grief and relationships.

In 2023, Michael partnered with Australian Red Cross Lifeblood to help raise awareness for the vital role blood donation plays in not just his life, but the 1 in 3 Australians who will need blood products in their lifetime. To help recipients like Michael and countless others book a blood donation here. https://bit.ly/4c8Z6tN

To watch the full episode on YouTube, follow this link. https://bit.ly/3RHPUoi

Links mentioned in the episode and extra resources:

📺 Things to watch

• Homer Simpson’s journey through the Stages of Grief - https://bit.ly/4epRAMJ.
• The Imperfects x Lifeblood video - https://bit.ly/3z0Suiv

🎧 Previous Imperfects episodes mentioned in this episode:

• Tim Minchin - Lucky To Be Here - https://apple.co/492kgsN 
• Gina Chick - Don’t Fight Life - https://apple.co/3UKpxQ8 
• Elizabeth Day - The Me-est Version of Me - https://apple.co/47PubRU 
• Reece Conca - Tackling Male Infertility - https://apple.co/4fUmEEm 

📖 Things to read

• Kubler-Ross Grief Cycle is here https://bit.ly/45tThVu

⛑️ To support

• Lifeblood - https://bit.ly/4c8Z6tN
• The Klim Foundation - bit.ly/4ejtGTj

🎧  Things to listen to:

• Milkshakes for Marlee - https://bit.ly/4cwRDEW

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stand-up comedian Nazeem Hussain lost his father to COVID-19 in 2021. In this episode, Nazeem shares the difficulties surrounding his family’s loss, and how his Dad’s life and sudden death has impacted his own life. But Nazeem also tells some wildly funny stories - in particular one about a "comedy concert" he did in Sri Lanka in front of The Prime Minister, which turned out to be organised by none other than his Dad.

You probably already know Naz from his many, MANY appearances on the telly including The Project, Orange Is The New Brown or maybe even I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here. But his latest work sees him acting and writing on the new ABC show, Summer Love. Link below.

To watch Nazeem in Summer Love, follow this link: https://ab.co/3BR4gLC

To pre-order Nazeem's new children's book, follow this link https://bit.ly/3UlxSHW

For recommendation, 'Raising Boys', by Steve Biddulph, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3RLMpuV

To read '7 Sneaky Ways Your Parents Influence Is Still Affecting Your Life', by Suzannah Weiss, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3UhkTam

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this Academy of Imperfection, author and profanity purveyor, Johann Hari answers more of your brilliant questions.

As a result, Johann talks with Hugh, Ryan and Josh about intrinsic and extrinsic values, and how they affect the things we do and social media’s role in why we do them.

Also (speaking of click-bait), in an Imperfects exclusive, Johann reveals his go-to KFC order.

And double-also, we recorded this episode before the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, which will make more sense when you listen.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imperfects regular, Johann Hari joins us IN STUDIO for the first time to answer your questions!

In this very special edition of The Academy of Imperfection (which we’ve split into 2 MASSIVE EPISODES OVER 2 MASSIVE... um... EPISODES!), Johann Hari talks with Hugh, Ryan and Josh about our ability to change our habits in the face of addiction. And why we can learn from the approach of Overeater’s Anonymous to help our addiction to our phones and the internet.

Johann will be back later this week to answer more of your questions.

For app recommendation 'Freedom', to block websites, follow this link: https://freedom.to/

To learn more and purchase Johann's books, follow this link: https://johannhari.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2003, JET’s Are You Gonna Be My Girl was one of the biggest songs on the planet. It was so big, Apple even used it for their first iPod ad. Remember? The one with the dancing silhouettes on the colourful backgrounds? Yeah, that was JET.

As the bass player for JET, Mark Wilson has lived the dream of any musician. He’s toured the world and played to packed stadiums, and even stood with Beyonce and Jay Z at the MTV Video Music Awards before playing on stage in front of them.

But Mark has also been dealt with some of the most challenging tragedies we can face. In this emotional episode, Mark talks about the good times and the bad times and how he’s dealt with loss in his life.

After the interview, Hugh talks with Ryan and Josh about some practical ways we can all deal with loss and trauma in our own lives.

To watch Bessel van der Kolk's "6 ways to to heal trauma without medication" on YouTube, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3q7FnEH

To read or purchase book recommendation, "The Body Keeps The Score" by Bessel van der Kolk, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3BdSPgH

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To celebrate Father's Day, Hugh plays some intimate audio of him reading a chapter of his book, 'Let Go', to his Dad (and Josh's Dad incidentally). But not just any old chapter, the final chapter ABOUT his Dad.

Afterwards, Hugh explains to Ryan and Josh, how writing a gratitude letter to your Dad (even if he isn't around anymore) can have a hugely positive impact.

But of course, Gratitude Letters aren't just for Dads, they're for your Mum or any carer in your life as well.

Happy Fathers Day. Have a listen, then go write a gratitude letter. ❤️

To watch Fitzy (Ryan Fitzgerald) read his gratitude letter to his dad, follow this link: https://vimeo.com/352402397

To view a version of the 'Power and Privilege Wheel' please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3ecWnGS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Emisode, Dr Emily explains some reasons why the inner critic is there in the first place, and where it’s coming from.

To watch Shirzad Chamine's Ted Talk, 'Know Your Inner Saboteurs', follow this link: https://bit.ly/2Ybu5Aa

To learn more about Daniel Siegel research and to purchase Mindsight, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3TnNVV5

To read the research article 'Positive Self-Statements, Power For Some, Peril For Others', follow this link, https://bit.ly/2L4k0k3 or, https://bit.ly/3RiTeDo

To listen to Russ Harris talk about the problems with positive self-talk on The Life Lessons podcast with Simon Mundie, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3TlOZJ8

To learn more about Russ Harris's research and to purchase The Happiness Trap, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3wDAgzM


The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carlton footballer Darcy Vescio is one of the biggest names in the AFLW, having won multiple awards including the Carlton Best & Fairest, 2-time All Australian selection and the Mark of the Year. As a marquee player, Darcy is at the top of their game.

But that’s just part of Darcy’s story. Less than a year ago, Darcy publicly came out as non-binary, announcing to the football community that they would now go by the they/them gender pronouns.

In this Vulnerabilitea House, Darcy tells Hugh, Ryan and Josh what that experience was like for them. But also, after Hugh and Ryan regrettably slip up a few times during the episode, Darcy graciously explains why it matters so much to them when people do get their pronoun right.

To watch Darcy's 2017 Mark of The Year, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Cp54Yy

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Academy of Imperfection is a little different. As Hugh explains in the opener, this episode actually IS more like a lecture. But trust us, that’s a good thing.

Dr Paul Callaghan has a lot of wisdom to share that he's accrued over a lifetime of wins, losses and even a near death experience that changed his life forever. As an Aboriginal man, much of Paul's wisdom has come from his experience on The Dreaming Path, which also happens to be the title of the book he’s co-written with his friend and Aboriginal elder, Uncle Paul Gordon.

This book is one of the most impactful books we've ever read. Some might assume that aboriginal lore from tens of thousands of years ago would be irrelevant in today’s world. Faaaaar from it. Dr Paul Callaghan and Uncle Paul Gordon wrote this book for all of us, so after you finish this episode, pick up a copy at your local bookstore, and then, let’s all go bush with Paul!

To purchase The Dreaming Path, Indigenous Thinking To Change Your Life, by Dr Paul Callaghan and Uncle Paul Gordon, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3SLD0V4

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

B-B-B-BONUS EP!!! A-A-A-AGAIN!!!

Every now and then, Hugh, Ryan and Josh like to get together and chat about their own imperfections that they’ve been dealing with recently. This is one of those episodes.

Hugh talks about “life seasons”, Ryan explains why European holidays aren’t always as perfect as they appear, and Josh talks about watching Morning Wars with Jennifer Anniston. 

To read Hugh’s recommendation of Kimberly Gillan’s article in the Age, ‘Are You In Tune With Your Life Season’, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Q6o4iC

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She’s back again! Our very own psychologist, Dr Emily!

In this emisode, Dr Emily reflects on a very moving chat we had with comedian Steen Raskopoulos. 

She talks with Hugh, Ryan and Josh about the concept of Emotional Awareness, and explains why it’s not only important to identify your unpleasant emotions, but why it's even more important to express them when they arise.

Oh, Hugh and tells us about going to Bondi.

For book recommendation Atlas of The Heart by Brene Brown, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3zmHW9Y

For Susan David’s Ted Talk, The Gift and Power of Emotional Courage, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3OQvFAm

To learn more about Matthew Lieberman’s study on ‘affect labelling’, (putting emotions into words) and its impact on our negative emotional experience, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3PQrUMO

To learn more about Dr Dan Siegel’s research into ‘mindsight’ and how we can ‘name and tame’ emotions, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Q8PLqM

To learn more about The Resilience Project’s Journals, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3cSVItf

For app recommendation Day One, follow this link: https://dayoneapp.com/

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you have boundaries? Have you ever crossed someone else’s boundaries? How would you react if someone crossed yours? It is WAY easier to ignore it. Avoiding potential conflict and awkwardness is second nature to most of us. For those of us with people-pleasing tendencies, telling someone they have violated a boundary can be an acute version of living hell.

Luckily for us, our resident psychologist Dr. Emily is here to help us navigate what a healthy boundary looks, feels and sounds like. And why understanding, implementing and protecting heathy boundaries is good for all of us...even if it does feel a little awkward.

Links mentioned in the episode and extra resources:

🎧 Previous episode of The Imperfects

• Grant Denyer - https://apple.co/4fyvmsj 
• Dr. Emily - Truth v Harmony - https://apple.co/40pgYO7 
• Dr. Emily - Social Anxiety, They’ve Got It Too - https://apple.co/3COk1pd 
• Chrissie Swan - Honesty - https://bit.ly/3qL7WeO 
• Lael Stone - Take Care of Yourself - https://apple.co/4eAJNuw 

📱 Things to follow

• Nedra Glover Tawwab’s instagram - bit.ly/4bWnvCK

📖 Things to read

• Nedra Glover Tawwab’s ‘Set Boundaries, Find Peace’ -bit.ly/3xpFKBw.
• Cheryl Strayed’s ‘Wild’ - bit.ly/4emwAXa

📺 Things to watch

• Curb Your Enthusiasm - https://bit.ly/3VCsXVH
• Poor Things - https://bit.ly/3VmQ3OJ

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Okay, so we're dabbling with repeat episodes because we've taken a week off. But we have recorded a new intro bit so there ya go, at least there's SOME new stuff!

This episode with comedian Steen Raskopoulos is not only one of our favourite episodes, but it's also the subject of next week's emisode with Dr Emily - which we can't wait for!

So yeah, back to regular, imperfect programming next week!

To listen to Steen’s podcast, Congrats On The New, please follow this link: https://apple.co/3yUjhtc

To listen to Ryan on Steen’s podcast, please follow link: https://apple.co/3cyEC3Y

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maybe you know Michelle Brasier from Aunty Donna. Or maybe from Shaun Micallef’s Mad as Hell. Or maybe she’s made you laugh (or cry) in any number of things she’s done on the stage and screen over the years. 

Or maybe you don’t her……… YET!

Michelle Brasier is a singer, actor, writer and comedian who - as you’ll hear in this Vulnerabilitea House - has overcome multiple adversities since a young age. But despite the challenges, she still firmly believes in the practice of optimism. And after selecting the card, “Are you more of an optimist or a pessimist?”, Michelle explains why optimism is such an important part of her life.

Thanks Michelle - you are a breath of fresh air!

To see when and where Michelle is performing next, follow this link: https://www.michellebrasier.com/tour

To listen to the soundtrack from the movie Once, follow this link: https://spoti.fi/3Rmckd0

Parting Glass by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Artist: http://audionautix.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all fail. All of us. Why? Because we’re all imperfect. And no one talks about failure more passionately than The Resilience Project’s own Martin “Rac” Heppell. And he’s today’s guest lecturer in The Academy of Imperfection.

Some of you may remember Rac’s first memorable appearance in The Vulnerabilitea House last season. If you haven’t heard it, we know you’ll want to listen (or re-listen) after this one - link below.

Failure, the other F word, is something we don’t like to talk about. It’s embarrassing. And sometimes it’s shameful. But as Martin explains, it’s important that we DO talk about failure. Because failure isn’t just normal… it’s crucial for our growth.

Feel like a rev up? This ep’s for you.

Rac’s back, baby… RAC’S BACK.

ALSO… here’s some extra info about Rac that’ll be helpful before listening to the ep:

- When Rac was a kid, his family spent some time living with a head-hunting tribe (there’s more on this in Rac’s first episode from last season)

- Between 1993 and 1995, Rac played 7 senior AFL games for St Kilda and Melbourne

- Rac works with The Resilience Project as one of their main Speakers, spending the majority of his time at schools, helping kids around Australia.

To listen to our previous episode with Rac, follow this link: https://apple.co/3xWoKPy

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia has had a LOT of success in the Olympic Swimming Pool. That’s an understatement. But one of our most successful and loved Olympians of recent times is golden girl, Libby Trickett. During her successful swimming career Libby was all smiles after winning gold medal after gold medal at three consecutive Olympic Games, but as she shares in this episode, on the inside she was struggling with a powerful feeling that she wasn’t enough.

Libby tells us all about what that was like, as well as sharing her more recent struggles with motherhood, and how both have led to bouts of depression and anxiety.

Libby displays extreme vulnerability in this episode - more of which is in her new book, Beneath the Surface.

Thank you Libby.

To listen to Libby’s podcast, All The Glitters, buy her book “Beneath The Surface, or learn more about her business “Unlocking Her Potential”, please follow this link: https://linktr.ee/libby_trickett

For book recommendation “A New Earth” by Eckhart Tolle, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/2ylEihJ

To listen to the Oprah’s Super Soul Conversation podcast with Eckhart Tolle, please follow this link: https://apple.co/3ub2Nvl

For book recommendation Atomic Habits by James Clear, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/2CbKTNL

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Emily is back to help us all!

Reflecting on our episode with Olympic BMX rider, Sam Willoughby from Season 2, Dr Emily talks us through the dangers of the Hedonistic Treadmill, and its slightly lesser known cousin, Hedonistic Adaptation.

There’s a lot covered in this episode, including ‘Growth Mindset’, being mindful of what we want and why, and how quickly we actually adapt to finally getting those things we want.

For book recommendation Hardwiring Happiness by Rick Hanson, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3tTaRjU

For book recommendation The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin, follow this link: https://bit.ly/3tT6e9E

To watch Carol Dwecks Ted Talk, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3OydHTz

Reference for Sonja Lyubomrisky’s stats for the determinants of happiness: https://bit.ly/3xPDSy6


The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For over 30 years, Glenn Robbins has been one of the funniest and most loved performers in Australia. From The Comedy Company and Kath & Kim, to The Panel and of course Russell Coight, Glenn has guaranteed his spot in the comedy history books.

But Glenn hasn’t always seen it that way. From a young age he was told he was "average", and despite his many successes, has dealt with a lifetime of performance anxiety.

In this edition of The Vulnerabilitea House, Glenn opens up and tells us how he manages to ignore the 'bad voice' in his head that tells him he's not good enough, and instead listen to the ‘good voice’, so he can face his fears and make good work he's proud of.

We highly encourage you to listen to this episode - especially while power-walking through the suburbs with a set of hand weights.

To listen to Glenn’s podcast with Dave O’Neil, click this link: https://apple.co/3O41PZv

To watch Shane Warne on The Panel, click this link: https://bit.ly/39DB1R0

Book recommendation Before & Laughter by Jimmy Carr can be found here: https://amzn.to/3y3Xss7

Book recommendation From Strength To Strength by Arthur C Brooks can be found here: https://amzn.to/3OqJQfS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the words of her own child, Lael Stone “works for the kids”.

But while Lael is technically a therapist who supports parents in understanding their children, everything Lael talks about in this edition of The Academy of Imperfection could easily be applied to all of us in understanding the people in our lives - no matter what age. Whether that be our friends, parents, colleagues or even ourselves.

Through her work, Lael helps adults process their own childhood trauma, and creates education systems that value emotional awareness, demonstrating why it all comes back to connection and compassion.

Oh, and listen out for the dramatic moment when Ryan swoops in and inadvertently steals Josh’s “Good Question” (patent pending).

To learn more about Lael’s work please visit her website at: https://laelstone.com.au/

To watch Lael’s Ted Talk please follow this link: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6fL09e8Tm9c&feature=emb_imp_woyt

To learn more about Lael’s school please follow this link: https://woodlineprimary.com.au/

To watch It’s Not About The Nail, please follow this link: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=-4EDhdAHrOg

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harry Garside is an Australian boxer who won bronze at the Tokyo Olympics - the first Olympic medal in boxing for Australia in 33 years. But to simply describe Harry Garside as a champion boxer, would be to sell him waaaaaaay short.

Because Harry is also a ballet dancer, a plumber and the guy who asked to wear a dress at the Olympic Opening Ceremony with the desire of defying gender stereotypes (request denied).

To listen to the podcast with Deeyah Khan that Harry recommends, please follow the link https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=-kunkEfHiLI

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Emisode, Dr Emily returns to talk about a topic that is VERRRRRY close to the bones of Ryan, Hugh and Josh. The ongoing battle of Truth vs Harmony.

Does that ring any bells for you? Do you choose to live truthfully? Or harmoniously? And what does that even mean? What’s the difference? And how do living ‘truthfully’ or ‘harmoniously’ affect us and the people around us?

Dr Emily goes into all of it.

In this episode, Dr Emily references conversations from Hamish Blake's episode and our last bonus episode. To listen to those, follow the links below:

Hamish Blake's episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/hamish-blake-lets-talk-about-self-doubt/id1476501557?i=1000555382728

Bonus episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/we-need-to-talk-hugh-checks-in-with-ryan-josh-after-a-big-month/id1476501557?i=1000556568682

Dr Emily also references Rick Hanson, to follow his work visit: www.rickhanson.net

If you have experienced, or are at risk of domestic and family violence and/or sexual assault, you can call the 24 hour national counselling service 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732). In an emergency, or if you are not feeling safe, always call the police on 000. - https://www.1800respect.org.au/services

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big episode. HUGE episode in fact. Especially for Ryan.

Ryan has been a long-suffering/recent-celebrating supporter of the Melbourne Demons his entire life. And today, Premiership captain of the Dees, Max Gawn is in The Vulnerabilitea House.

Ryan. Breathe.

Max tells Hugh, Ryan and Josh about a courageous comment made by one of the players in a team meeting that addressed the negative way players were speaking to each other. The comment cut deep - not only for Max who felt shame for his own behaviour, but one that lead to greater connection, trust and respect between the players, and ultimately to their lifelong dream of an AFL Premiership (the greatest, most joyous day for their fans).

Once again… breathe, Ryan.

For more information on Active-Constructive Communication, start here… [https://positivepsychology.com/active-constructive-communication/](https://positivepsychology.com/active-constructive-communication/)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is not a life sentence, as Rick Davies so eloquently tells Hugh and Josh in this episode of The Imperfix. Best known as Jimmy from the TV show 'Offspring', Rick is unbelievably vulnerable in sharing his story with OCD - from the awkward and painful compulsions, to the relief of a diagnosis at 18 years old.

Here Rick share's how he was inspired by the trailblazing work of Penny Moodie and talks through finding peace and happiness amidst the torment.

🎧 Things to listen to

• Rick’s full Imperfects episode - https://bit.ly/3wZQmHf 
• Penny’s Imperfects episode on OCD - https://bit.ly/459PbkY 

📖 Things to read

• Penny’s book, The Joy Thief: How OCD steals your happiness and how to get it back - bit.ly/3x3IG6T

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We seriously hope you listen to this one. I mean, obviously we hope you listen to all our episodes but THIS ONE... well, we reckon this one’s important.

Tarang Chawla’s younger sister Niki was the kindest person he knew. But in 2015, Niki was murdered by her partner who she was trying to break up with, as a result of domestic violence. Since then, Tarang has become an activist against men’s violence, educating all Australians on the many forms of abuse and its role in the mental health crisis.

But as Tarang explains, “abuse” is often not what we think.

In this Academy of Imperfection, guest lecturer Tarang Chawla talks with Hugh, Ryan and Josh about the many forms of abuse, violence, coercive control, gender inequality, and how we can all play a part in a safer future and why that’s so important for all of us.

If you have experienced or are at risk of domestic and family violence and/or sexual assault, you can call the 24 hour national counselling service 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732). In an emergency, or if you are not feeling safe, always call the police on 000

To listen to Tarang's podcast, "There's No Place Like Home" please follow the link below: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/theres-no-place-like-home-by-future-women/id1608086343

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might think that TV journalist and proud indigenous woman Narelda Jacobs has a perfect life. She’s the co-host of Studio 10, makes regular appearances on The Project, she’s a three-time host of the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras, and she’s... done lots of other things that are also on her Wikipedia page.

But like all of us, Narelda’s life has been far from perfect. I mean come on guys, we’re all imperfect, surely you’ve learnt that by now!

In this episode, Narelda talks openly about the challenges of falling pregnant as an 18-year-old... and then having to tell her parents. This would be hard for anyone, but Narelda grew up in an extremely religious household and her father was a Reverend of the Uniting Church. But that turned out to be a mere warm up for what was to come three years later, when she came out to her parents as gay.

We loved this chat with Narelda. And well, we love Narelda. We’re sure you will too.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to Dr Emily, our very own... PSYCHOLOGIST!

Reflecting on the recent episode with Luke McGregor, in this episode Dr Emily talks about panic attacks. What are they? Why do we get them? And what do we do when they show up and scare the hell out of us?

Thanks Dr Em

To find out more about by Russ Harris, The Happiness Trap and his work as an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Trainer visit; https://www.actmindfully.com.au/

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Originally from Rwanda, stand-up comedian Oliver Twist spent 14 years in a Malawi refugee camp before finally arriving in Ipswich, Queensland with his family.

In this Vulnerabilitea House, Oliver answers the question, “Where is home for you?” - a simple question for some, but a complicated one for Oliver.

Oliver shares stories from his extraordinarily imperfect life in great detail. Everything from being displaced by the Rwandan Genocide, to living in the refugee camp, and eventually seeing Trevor Noah perform stand-up comedy on the internet. And, thanks to ANOTHER “good question” from Josh, Oliver reflects on what his Australian citizenship actually means to him.

Oliver Twist’s incredible live shows, Jali and Griot, are still touring in select cities. You can find tickets on the link below:

https://www.livenation.com.au/artist-oliver-twist-1340595

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Okay, so get this...not only is Kemi Nekvapil an author, speaker and coach, but she was trained by Brené Brown. Yuh. THE Brené Brown.

As an author, Kemi has written a new book that you must read. It’s called ‘POWER: A woman’s guide to living and leading without apology’. And in our imperfect opinion, as 3 NON-women, it’s exactly what we all need right now.

In this edition of The Academy of Imperfection, Kemi shares her childhood experience living in foster care - being moved between 5 different families across England - and how it’s shaped her as the powerful woman she is today. Kemi then takes us through her interpretation of POWER - which happens to be a very convenient acronym...

- Presence to understand what is and isn’t working in our lives.

- Ownership of our personal narratives, especially our power stories.

- Wisdom about our needs, boundaries and growth.

- Equality as part of the diverse human family, all of us worthy.

- Responsibility for our choices, healing and happiness.

https://www.keminekvapil.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Like all of us, Luke McGregor is imperfect. From his challenging childhood at home and school, to his crippling panic attacks on stage as a stand-up comedian, Luke generously shares some of the many stories from his imperfect life with us and of course with you.

A lot gets covered here, including Luke’s ongoing battles with OCD and why he eventually turned to professional comedy after trying a handful of other careers first.

But also, as you’d expect, Luke’s hilarious in this ep so please put your Giggle Hat on. Wait, you DO have a Giggle Hat don’t you?!?!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

B-B-B-BONUS EP!!!

After what has been a very vulnerable month for The Imperfects, Hugh wanted to check in with Ryan and Josh to see how they’re feeling after some “big shares” in the first 4 episodes of the season.

Firstly, Ryan reflects on how he’s feeling after revealing his worries around the supposed “love triangle” with Hugh and Hamish during Hamish’s Vulnerabilitea House episode. Then Josh talks about his self-doubt surrounding his role on the podcast, and of course where he’s at with his internet use since bravely sharing addiction with the group during the Johann Hari episode.

We’ll be back to normal programming next episode with Luke McGregor, but until then, this episode’s all about us!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Please welcome the newest member of The Imperfects family... our resident psychologist, Dr Emily!

Dr Emily recently joined The Imperfects behind the scenes, ensuring our episodes are released with care, compassion and professionalism.

This season however, Hugh, Ryan and Josh begged Dr Emily to bring her knowledge directly to you with her very own regular episodes! Each month she will join Hugh, Ryan and Josh and bring in something from The Imperfects archives, to then give general advice and information based on the stories and themes from the episode.

In this debut ‘Emisode’, Dr Emily discusses the final episode of 2021; “Georgia & Hugh”. If you haven’t heard that incredibly moving episode, you could listen to that first, but you’ll definitely be able to follow along if you haven’t heard it. Here’s a link to that ep just in case... https://apple.co/35xOmbs

And here’s a link to the book by Oprah and Dr Bruce Perry mentioned by Dr Emily: https://bit.ly/3u1y1VV


The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a health care professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hamish Blake is a very funny man. No surprises there. But as it turns out, Hamish Blake is also a man who experiences self-doubt. Hmm, SOME surprises there!

And as the latest guest in The Vulnerabilitea House, Hamish tells Hugh, Ryan and Josh about the self-doubt he’s experienced while performing on TV, even after doing it for almost 20 years. Whether it be during one of his many appearances on panel shows, or even while standing in front of the contestants on his first day as host of Lego Masters.

Later in the ep, Hamish, Ryan and Hugh openly discuss their evolving “love triangle” that has been triggering feelings of self-doubt within Ryan. Then Josh talks candidly about his own self-doubt regarding his role on The Imperfects.

Yep. This one’s a big ol’ share-fest. Let’s hug.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We can all feel it. And unfortunately, it’s getting worse. Paying attention and properly focussing these days is getting harder and harder. And in the first Academy of Imperfection for 2022, Johann Hari is here to explain to Hugh, Ryan and Josh exactly why that is. The good news is... it’s not our fault. But luckily there are things we can do about it. If you want to delve deeper into the topics and themes from this episode, please read (or listen to - like Hugh and Ryan did) Johann’s incredible new book, Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention. It might just be the thing that gets you off your phone for a bit. However, while Johann may be this week’s guest lecturer, Josh is certainly this week’s star pupil, delivering what may be one of the most powerful and moving acts of vulnerability we’ve ever seen on this podcast. Josh didn’t plan to say what he said, but in finding the courage to speak his truth, his hope is that others with similar struggles will feel more supported, or at least feel less alone.

Thank you Johann for returning to The Imperfects, and thank you Josh for being imperfect.

For more information about Johann Hari and where to his book visit: https://stolenfocusbook.com/

@theimperfectspodcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From being ‘canceled’, to alcoholism and post-natal depression, Yumi Stynes knows how to get vulnerable in the Vulnerabilitea House.

Starting as a magnetic, music presenter on Channel V, Yumi’s career spans more than 20 years on our screens, on the radio, or in the very successful books she’s written. However as she shares with Hugh, Ryan and Josh, there were times when the phone simply didn't ring and her career felt like it was at a stand-still. 

In this episode, Yumi shares stories from her childhood, from feelings of isolation; to being the victim of racism in 1980s Swan Hill; we discuss the loss of her father and how that experience shaped her perspective on life; to what it was actually like being 'cancelled' and the role friendship played in her lowest moments; above all, Yumi tells us of her struggles with alcohol, and how her decision to quit transformed her life.

So buckle up for a big one! We know you’ll love this chat as much as we did!

📖 Things to read

• ‘Welcome To…’ book series https://bit.ly/3yPqb6O
• The Food Fix (Garlic Honey Soy Chicken recipe) https://bit.ly/3RjbaQN

📺 Things to watch

• The Circle ‘cancelling’ moment https://bit.ly/3RfcGUk

⛑️ For help & support with post natal depression

• Call Panda on 1300 726 306 or visit https://bit.ly/45fCULX
• Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit https://bit.ly/3yPDggh
• For further research and learning visit Mumspace - https://bit.ly/3Vzsjs4

⛑️ For help & support with alcohol abuse

• Call Alcoholics Anonymous on 1300 222 222 or visit https://bit.ly/4bT6Pfq
• Call the National Drug & Alcohol Hotline on 1800 250 015 or visit https://bit.ly/4aPgvGJ

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kate Langbroek, in our humble opinion, is a very special person and we absolutely love her.

Kate has experienced decades of success on Australian TV and radio - whether it was every Wednesday night on The Panel, or with her mate Hughesy on the radio. Now she’s written her first book, “Ciao, Bella” - filled with stories from her amazing and colourful life. But even with all her success, like all of us, Kate’s life hasn’t been perfect.

In this raw episode, Kate generously shares what it was like when her eldest son Lewis was diagnosed with Leukaemia, and how it impacted her life and her family - then and now. Afterwards, Hugh talks with Ryan and Josh and gives us some insight on the emotion of LOVE, and how positive emotions like love can drastically improve our mental health.

@theimperfectspodcast

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We’re back... for a warm up ep... and as you’ll soon hear... we’re properly professional now!

Not because of the three of us, because of the new members of our Imperfects team... Bridget Northeast, BOTH British Andys (Hall and Poole), George Martin, Jamieson Moore and Dr Emily!

This really is our highest level of excitement EVER.

So, so, so good to see you,

Hugh, Ryan & Josh

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In this extremely special episode, Hugh reads the opening chapter from his second book, ‘Let Go’ to his younger sister (and Josh’s older sister) Georgia van Cuylenburg - a heartfelt letter from him to her.

What follows is an incredibly powerful conversation between the two of them that, for the first time, addresses unspoken feelings and issues that have existed for years.

We’ve been fortunate to have witnessed many beautiful examples of vulnerability on this podcast over the years… but guys… seriously… this is next level. (And I can say that because it’s me Ryan writing this)

Thank you Georgia for allowing us to share this. At times it doesn’t feel like we should be listening in, but gee whiz, I think I can pre-speak for everyone here and say we feel so lucky and privileged that we are. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.