Our Byron Community with Chris Hanley
Our Byron community is a podcast that explores the unique and diverse community here in Byron Bay. From how people ended up here to the thriving business scene, we cover a wide range of topics that make our community so special. We dive deep into the stories and experiences of locals, and share insights on everything from sustainability and wellness to art and culture. Whether you're a longtime resident or a visitor, join us as we celebrate and explore all things Byron!
Episodes
38 episodes
America at War with Itself | Nick Bryant Live at the Writers Festival
Join host Chris Hanley in this live episode from the 2024 Writers Festival as he interviews Nick Bryant about his book, "The Forever War: America’s Unending Conflict with Itself." Nick Bryant explains how the hate, divisiveness and par...
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Season 2
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Episode 20
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57:08
Healing Together | Dan Ward's Journey to Help Others
Join us for an inspiring episode with Dan Ward, who shares his journey from childhood on Christmas Island to overcoming addiction and helping others find recovery.Born in Melbourne and raised on Christmas Island, Dan navigated the challe...
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Season 2
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Episode 19
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38:04
The Science of Cancer and the Art of Storytelling | Dr. Paul Thomas Explores Both Worlds
Join us as we sit down with Dr. Paul Thomas, a Newcastle-born nuclear medicine specialist now based in Byron Bay. Paul takes us on a journey from his medical training in Newcastle to his current work in the field of nuclear medicine. He offers ...
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Season 2
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Episode 18
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39:05
Nurturing New Lives | Conversations with Dr. Howard Chilton
Join us as we explore the life and wisdom of Dr. Howard Chilton, a leading neonatologist with a remarkable journey. Born in Yorkshire, Dr. Chilton’s path took him from the English countryside to Byron Bay, where he has embraced both the communi...
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Season 2
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Episode 17
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38:58
Jane Thomson OAM | Crafting Wine Communications
Embark on an inspiring journey with Jane Thomson OAM, the visionary founder behind the Australian Women in Wine Awards and The Fabulous Ladies’ Wine Society. In this episode, we explore Jane’s remarkable career evolution, from her influential r...
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Season 2
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Episode 16
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42:41
The Art of Sound | The Journey of Guntis Sics
Join us for an engaging conversation with Guntis Sics, a visionary sound engineer whose career has spanned continents and decades. Originally from Sydney and his first language being Latvian, Guntis takes us through a fascinating journey, inclu...
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Season 2
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Episode 15
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48:33
From Economics to Journalism | Steve Wyatt's Journey and the Rainforest Warriors
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Steve Wyatt, a former development economist who transitioned to journalism and now calls Byron Bay home. From his early days in Sydney to his impactful years in London managing global coffee and coc...
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Season 2
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Episode 14
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43:36
Pages Unfolded | Jessica Alice and the Byron Writers Festival
Join us for an insightful conversation with Jessica Alice, the newly appointed Artistic Director of the Byron Writers Festival. Coming from a rich background in literature and arts leadership, Jessica shares her journey from CEO of Writers SA t...
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Season 2
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Episode 13
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40:32
Beyond Therapy | Andy Hamilton's Mission with Human Nature Adventure Therapy
Join us for a special live episode of Our Byron Community which was recorded at an intimate gathering at the Sun Seeker Hotel in Byron Bay. Host Chris Hanley had the privilege of sitting down with Andy Hamilton, Founder of Human Nature Adventur...
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Season 2
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Episode 12
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47:45
Breaking News | Colleen Ryan's Journey in Journalism
Join Colleen Ryan as she takes you on a captivating journey through her life and career in journalism. From her humble beginnings in Woolongong to her move to Sydney for university, Colleen shares the pivotal moments that shaped her path. Start...
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Season 2
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Episode 11
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43:08
Jessie Summons | Journey of Leadership, Innovation, and Community Spirit
Join us as we sit down with Jessie Summons, a visionary leader and advocate for critical thinking. In this episode, Jessie shares insights into the power of critical thinking and its transformative impact on personal and professional spheres. D...
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Season 2
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Episode 10
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54:34
Conversations with Shien Chee | Embracing Culture, Community, and Creativity
Join us on a captivating journey with Shien Chee, the dynamic Executive Director of the Writers Festival, as she shares part of her story. Born in Singapore and moving to Australia at the age of three, Shien reflects on the challenges of balanc...
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Season 2
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Episode 9
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40:11
The Brookfarm Difference | The Path of Will Brook
Join us for an inspiring journey with Will Brook, CEO of Brookfarm, a generational family business deeply rooted in regenerative agriculture. Will shares the captivating story of his family's big move from Melbourne to Byron Bay, driven by thei...
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Season 2
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Episode 8
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41:45
Worldly Designs to Local Roots in Byron Bay | Harley Graham's Journey
Join us on the Byron Community Podcast as we sit down with local architect Harley Graham. Harley takes us on a journey from his university days to his travels, including living in the USA and Berlin. He shares his experiences working on large m...
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Season 2
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Episode 7
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56:02
Tunes and Tales | A Conversation with Dan Hannaford
Join us as we sit down with Byron Bay-based artist Dan Hannaford. Dan shares insights into life as a musician in the Northern Rivers, discussing the unique challenges and advantages of the area. Growing up with music as a fundamental part of hi...
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Season 2
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Episode 6
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50:41
A Journey Through Time | Lissa Coote's Adventure Story
Tune in for an inspiring episode featuring Lissa Coote, the adventurous president of Coorabell Hall in Byron Bay. Discover the captivating story of how Lissa and her partner at the time, founded Tracks Magazine, moving their lives to Byron Bay ...
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Season 2
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Episode 5
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39:58
From Byron Bay to the Stage | The Artistic Journey of Thomas Hughes
Join us as we explore the journey of Thomas Hughes, a young artist and dancer from Byron Bay. Thomas shares his unique perspective on growing up in this beautiful coastal town, being a part of its vibrant creative community, and witnessing the ...
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Season 2
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Episode 4
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44:30
Byron Bay Reflections | The Oliver Dunne Story
Join us as we delve into the life and insights of Oliver Dunne, a true Byron Bay local with a fascinating journey. Born in Dublin, Oliver's path took him to London at 17, and from there, he embarked on a life-changing adventure to Australia.&nb...
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Season 2
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Episode 3
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42:57
Beyond the Waves | Nell Schofield's Journey from 'Puberty Blues' to Byron Bay
Join us as we sit down with our special guest, Nell Schofield, the iconic Debbie from Puberty Blues. Tune in as Nell shares behind-the-scenes stories from the 1981 film and reflects on its impact on Australian culture and women....
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Season 2
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Episode 2
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39:33
Navigating Life | Dr Joel Hissinks Tale from the Navy to Medicine
Embark on a captivating journey in this episode as we sit down with Joel Hissink, a local doctor making a meaningful impact in Byron Bay.Join us as we delve into Joel's story, stretching from his early years to the thrilling chapters of...
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Season 2
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Episode 1
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59:51
Behind the Mic | The stories of Our Creative Podcast Team
Discover the voices shaping our podcast magic! In this year-end episode, Chris sits down with Tianna Podesta, Oli Ayo, and Mayra Castro – the dynamic trio behind the scenes.Join us as we delve into their journeys, exploring ...
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Season 1
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Episode 17
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24:48
Crafting Tales in Byron Bay | Unleashing Creativity with Sarah Armstrong
In this episode, we dive into the story of Sarah Armstrong, an author who found herself in the creative haven of Byron Bay. From her days as an exchange student in Argentina, navigating a foreign language, to the challenges and triumphs of beco...
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Season 1
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Episode 16
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46:57
Unpacking Housing Dynamics | Insights with Jack Dodds and Rob Doolan
In this episode, we're delighted to welcome back Jack Dodds as our guest, accompanied by the insightful Rob Doolan. Together, we navigate the intricacies of the housing landscape, shedding light on general community issues, with a particular em...
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Season 1
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Episode 15
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1:02:45
From The Big Scrub to Fine Craftsmanship | The Tony Kenway Story
In this podcast, we delve into the life of Tony Kenway, a master craftsman deeply connected to the natural beauty of Northern New South Wales, Australia.Tony's journey begins in "The Big Scrub," once Australia's largest subtropica...
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Season 1
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Episode 14
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45:26
Byron Rhythms | A Journey through Music Journalism with Samuel J Fell
Join us as we delve into the fascinating journey of Samuel J Fell, a renowned music journalist who transitioned into a vital presence in Byron Bay's thriving music scene after starting his career in journalism. Hear the story...
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Season 1
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Episode 13
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44:04