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