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.

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

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

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

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

From starting off as a TV journalist at Channel 7, to working as a video producer, starting her own successful production company, and creating an award-winning podcast about female health problems, storytelling has been at the heart of Cassie's career journey since she graduated with not one, but two broadcasting degrees from ECU.

In this episode, Cassie takes us through her impressive career journey to date, as well as sharing a few home truths about the broadcasting industry. She also offers advice for students on getting work experience and being kind in an ever-competitive industry.

Episode hosted and produced by Georgia Clark and Isobella Boros.

In 2021, at just 30 years of age, Jaysen de San Miguel was elected the City of Bunbury's youngest-ever Mayor. A qualified accountant having graduated from ECU’s Bachelor of Commerce in 2013, being involved in local government, let alone becoming mayor, wasn’t always on Jaysen’s radar. In this chat, you’ll hear about what inspired Jaysen to become involved in local politics and how he progressed through the council ranks while balancing a career as an accountant.

Episode hosted by Dane Mepham, and produced by Olivia Bradbury, Alastair McLean and Trinity Hillam.

Jenni Screen OLY has had an extraordinary career. She’s played as a professional basketballer. She’s a multiple Olympic medal winner. She’s also worked as a high performance coach, leadership mentor, commentator and sessional university lecturer.

Jenni has been able to juggle being a full-time athlete, with full-time study and working full-time - unbelievably all at the same time! In this episode, you’ll hear how her drive and passion has enabled her to reach the pinnacle of sport, whilst also progressing both academically and in her professional career in Strength and Conditioning and Coaching.

Episode hosted by Dane Mepham, and produced by Olivia Bradbury, Alastair McLean and Trinity Hillam.