Episode 1456 — Blind Magic in Alice Springs. Host Murray Stewart, a veteran coach in the Northern Territory and the only local coach to have trained two Australian 400m champions, reflects on a 40-year career, recent medical setbacks and his determination to return to coaching. In this solo episode Murray shares the origins of his methods, drawn from his experience as a vision-impaired runner, and explains how that perspective shaped his approach to building champions. Central to the episode is Murray’s core coaching mantra: "run like a blind man" — meaning athletes must learn to listen and to feel. He explains practical cues: listen to the sound of your feet and your breathing, use those rhythms to disrupt competitors, surge to break their cadence, and feel the wind to know when to push harder or ease off. Murray describes how the sound of your footstrike reveals form (the danger of heel striking versus the ideal bounce onto the balls of the feet) and why a still head and synchronized body produce the "beautiful music" of great running. Murray also recounts coaching anecdotes — an athlete who lost form because he kept looking around — to illustrate how attention and body awareness affect performance. He discusses how these listening-and-feeling skills translate into training progress over months and years, and why athletes who internalize them become "beautiful runners." Now at the back end of his coaching career with one athlete currently on his books, Murray outlines his plan to pass on his wisdom over the next couple of years, emphasizing that the athlete’s willingness to listen and feel will determine future success. Listeners can expect candid storytelling, clear technical cues, and a motivational look at how sensory awareness and rhythm can turn good runners into champions.

Episode 1455 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs is presented by Maurice Stewart. In this emotionally candid episode Maurice shares that his national bowel cancer screening returned a positive result (blood detected), explains his strong family history of digestive cancers, and describes the immediate steps he’s taking to get answers. Maurice recounts contacting Bowel Cancer Screening Australia, locating the report (the second sample tested positive), and heading to his doctor to demand a colonoscopy to determine the cause. He explains what a positive screening test means, notes there are other possible causes for blood in stool, and urges listeners who receive similar results to consult their health professional and arrange a colonoscopy. The episode also covers Maurice’s emotional and spiritual response: his faith, a prayer session with a close friend, and the practical supports he’s using to manage anxiety and sleep loss (including medication supplied by his support worker, Hayley). He speaks candidly about the stress, sleep deprivation and seizure risk that drove him to seek medical help and to lean on his support network. Beyond the health issue, Maurice shares lighter community-focused plans — including a public invitation he’s issued to President Trump to visit Alice Springs for his 80th birthday and reflections on Alice Springs’ long-standing ties with US personnel through the Joint Defence Facility. He explains how resolving his health concern is the first priority so he can continue organizing local events and projects for the town. Key takeaways: a positive bowel screening means further investigation is needed (usually a colonoscopy), family history matters, reach out to health professionals promptly, and use community and faith supports to cope with anxiety. The episode is a mix of personal testimony, practical next steps, and community-minded optimism. This is Blind Magic Communications production, episode 1455.

Good morning, good afternoon, or even good evening, wherever you are in the world. I am your presenter and host. I am Murray Stewart, and this is episode 1453 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs. Well, well, the issue of problem friends. Yeah, the issue of problem. Friends can be Exactly that, problematical. I have a friend, a good friend, who has a multitude of issues leading to me not trusting him when it comes to money. So what do I do? Well, I guess the first thing to tell you is I don't have all of the answers. I seriously do not have all of the answers because I do want to be a good friend to him but I most definitely don't want bad energy in my home and I don't want to be ripped off financially, so I'm going to have to think very carefully about a plan of. How I can Be a good friend and also safeguard myself So I guess the first thing that I've decided is to be assertive. Yeah, be very assertive. If there is something that's bothering me, speak up. Tell him straight. What is bothering me? Let me give you an example. If I go to one of the licensed venues here in Alice Springs and he leaves me sitting there while he goes and plays the poker machines, I think when he comes back, tell him about your displeasure. I think it would go like something like this. I thought we came to this club together, and I would be greeted with a, well, we did, we did. Well, yes, we did, but you have spent the last hour playing the poker machines, and I know that's exactly what you have done, because you have an issue, and you have got to get on top of this, because the only reason why this club exists is because you're going to lose. Yeah, that's how it works. You're going to lose money, not win. That's the reason why the machines are in this club at all, is to support the club, to continue building the club. And the only way for that to happen is for you to continue losing. So yes, being assertive. And when he comes to my house, make sure that I have all of my needs for the day. Invite him to bring all of his needs for the day. You know, it might be that we're going to have a drink while we're watching the footy, for example. And that way I don't have to ask him at all to go to the, you know, the bottle shop to buy me some wine, which would mean that I would need to hand him my credit card. Yeah, just keep him away full stop from my finances and also be very assertive with him about the things that are bothering you. I'm saying you because I'm giving you out there some advice as I work through my own problem on how to deal with this, and that's a few suggestions for you. I'll tell you what, I also have many, many good friends. I have many good friends, of which one of them I'm about to introduce to you. Elizabeth, how are you? I'm good, thank you, Murray. What a beautiful accent you have, a lovely accent. Thank you. Get in nice and close there to the microphone and let people hear that beautiful, beautiful voice of yours. Now, Elizabeth, I alluded to in the last podcast when I spoke about two ladies that were staying with me here at Blind Magic Headquarters. Thank you. And I spoke to you about the fact that they have come from a war-torn country and now they're here in Australia. Elizabeth, you must be loving Australia. I am, definitely. And yesterday it was interesting because you paused as you were about to go out for your morning walk to give thanks to John Howard, our previous Prime Minister, who during his time as Prime Minister was responsible for bringing people just like you to Australia. You're right, Mari. It was a great pleasure to see his photo on your wall. I never noticed until yesterday. Yeah, and really profound, Really profound. It really... Affected me in a positive way yesterday, the fact that you did that, because it's only people like you that could make a comment such as you did yesterday. Many people have seen Mr. Howard's photograph on the wall and never commented. But because of your experience, you gave than

Good morning, good afternoon, or good evening wherever you are in the world. This is Murray Stewart. I'm your presenter and host. And this is Blind Magic in Alice Springs. And as I said, this is episode 1452. In this episode Murray reflects on a powerful morning moment with two housemates from South Sudan. After noticing a photograph of former Prime Minister John Howard, one guest explained how government policy enabled her family to come to Australia and find safety and opportunity. Murray uses that conversation to explore gratitude, the refugee experience, and the contrast between life in a peaceful country and the daily terror faced by people living in war zones. Topics covered include the civil war in South Sudan, the role of Australian immigration in offering refuge, the contributions refugees make to Australian society, and the ongoing national conversation about immigration. Murray shares his personal reflections on learning from others, the everyday benefits of living in a stable democracy, and the importance of welcoming newcomers who enrich the nation. The episode features personal stories from Murray’s housemates (names withheld for privacy) and promises a future podcast interview with one of them to share more of her experiences. Key points include gratitude to those who made resettlement possible, empathy for people fleeing conflict, and a hopeful call to continue learning from one another as Australia grows and develops. Episode 1452 is a thoughtful, reflective conversation about safety, opportunity, and the little moments that reveal big truths about migration, belonging, and human kindness.

Host and presenter Murray Stewart shares hard-earned experience and wisdom in this candid episode. Murray reflects on mentorship and the importance of passing knowledge to younger generations as he says goodbye to a talented team member heading to Sydney. He encourages anyone facing long periods of study to embrace daily learning and the excitement of gradual progress.Murray opens up about staying mentally active — from his morning streaming routine to lively conversations with colleagues — and explains how lifelong learning keeps his mind sharp. He also discusses his recovery from a quintuple bypass, how improved resilience changes his outlook on future health events, and how that renewed optimism fuels his ambitions for community work.The episode covers Murray’s community leadership with the Alice Springs Ratepayers Association and plans to expand his broadcasting with another podcast. Central to the conversation is his invention aimed at reducing suicide and domestic violence: a device designed to instantly connect people in crisis with trusted loved ones whose words could prevent harm. Murray explains the concept, the real-life story that inspired it, the practical challenges of bringing it to market (including an estimated $500,000 cost), and his strategy to partner with designers and established companies to make it available.Listeners can expect personal anecdotes, practical advice for students and young professionals, updates on Murray’s projects, and a clear call-to-action to watch this space as he works to turn a life-saving idea into reality. This is episode 1451, a Blind Magic Communications production.

Morning, good afternoon, or good evening, wherever you are in the world. This is episode 1450 of Blind Magic, hosted by Murray Stewart from Alice Springs. In this personal check-in, Murray apologizes for his recent absence, shares updates about his health and everyday life, and reflects candidly on aging and adapting to change. The episode covers Murray’s recent decision to get hearing aids from Hearing Australia after experiencing hearing difficulties linked to past strokes and sensory damage to the brain. He describes the initial challenges — learning to wear them, charging them nightly, and the current hurdles integrating them with his phone — and emphasizes that practice will be essential to make them work reliably. Murray also touches on the practical impact of improved hearing for his roles in the community, especially chairing and running meetings, and why getting this right matters to his productivity and independence. He shares a personal moment of panic at being without his phone, underscoring the importance of accessible communication for safety and confidence. Along the way Murray finds inspiration in the example of public figures who remain active later in life, mentioning President Trump’s recent medical report as a motivational reminder that age need not preclude energy, purpose, or contribution. He encourages fellow seniors to stay motivated, exercise, and keep contributing to family and community life. Episode 1450 closes with Murray’s upbeat resolve to keep practicing with his hearing aids, maintain daily exercise, and return to full-strength podcasting and community work. This episode is a short, honest, and encouraging life update from Murray Stewart and Blind Magic Communications.

Wherever you are in the world. This is episode 1,449. It's Blind Magic in Alice Springs, and I am your presenter and host, Murray Stewart.In this solo episode Murray reflects on the recently struck Middle East peace deal, unpacking what’s at stake and what still needs to play out. He explores the central condition that keeps surfacing in negotiations — the complete disarmament of Hamas — and voices deep skepticism about how, and by whom, an armed militia with a history of violence could be reliably disarmed.Murray discusses the political dynamics behind the deal, focusing on the unconventional role played by Donald Trump and contrasting it with how Vice President Kamala Harris might have been received. He argues that Trump’s forceful, direct negotiating style — backed by U.S. military strength and relationships with wealthy regional players — proved decisive in bringing parties to the table.The episode builds toward an emotional moment: the anticipated release and return of hostages. Murray describes the personal significance of this step, his intention to stay up through the night, and why even a partial success (hostages returned) would be a huge human victory, even if broader elements of the deal remain fragile.He also considers the follow-up challenges: delivering aid to Gaza, rebuilding the territory, and the role that wealthy Arab states could play in reconstruction and political change, while reiterating the shared international desire to see Hamas rendered militarily ineffective.Throughout, Murray balances realism and hope — acknowledging the enormous difficulties ahead while emphasizing the emotional and humanitarian importance of any progress. This is a reflective, candid episode from Alice Springs about power, negotiation, and the fragile path toward peace.

Episode 1,448 — Blind Magic in Alice Springs, hosted by Murray Stewart. In this solo episode Murray reflects on recent headlines and cultural touchstones, offering candid personal takes and a call for measured thinking.Murray opens by revisiting his comments about Taylor Swift from the previous episode, admitting he finds her persona and music unexciting and explaining his plain, unvarnished reaction.The bulk of the show focuses on Donald Trump: Murray urges critics to give the 79-year-old leader some credit for his resilience and recent diplomatic activity. He discusses Trump’s apparent role in reducing tensions in the Middle East and easing a skirmish between India and Pakistan, calling these developments remarkable given the backdrop of the devastating 2023 conflict that cost many lives.At the same time Murray voices concern about the physical and mental toll of such intense activity at an advanced age, hoping for wise counsel and good health for anyone in that position. He asks listeners to temper partisan hatred and to acknowledge achievements even when they come from unexpected places.Listeners can expect forthright opinion, retrospective commentary on recent global events, and a thoughtful plea for balance and empathy in public discourse.

Join host Murray Stewart in episode 1,447 of Blind Magic from Alice Springs as he reflects on the global hullabaloo around Taylor Swift’s new album and the record-breaking 24-hour download surge — and explains why, personally, Swift simply doesn’t register for him. He shares candid thoughts on celebrity moments, including an awkward award encounter involving Celine Dion, and what he looks for in musical brilliance.Throughout the episode Murray celebrates artists who have shaped his musical tastes — praising AC/DC (and Angus Young’s guitar), the Brothers Gibb, Andrea Bocelli, and even the singular talent of Michael Jackson — contrasting their edge and influence with more contemporary pop phenomena.Murray also gives listeners a personal update: he’ll be heading to the MCG in November with his support worker to experience what may be AC/DC’s last Australian concert, and he talks about his excitement for that night.This is a solo episode with no guests, offering a jumbled, wide-ranging, and personal tour of musical opinions, anecdotes, and anticipation. Expect candid commentary, a variety of musical references, and Murray’s distinctive, conversational style.Blind Magic Communications — episode 1,447, hosted by Murray Stewart.

Don't ever think you're powerless. Don't ever. Because you are not.In this episode the founder and President of the Alice Springs Ratepayers Association outlines a new motion calling on the Alice Springs Town Council to conduct a full safety audit of street and public trees ahead of the upcoming storm season. The speaker recounts a recent September 8 storm that brought down two trees in the CBD and stresses that while no lives were lost, proactive measures are needed to prevent future tragedies.The conversation covers concrete safety steps — securing or removing trees deemed unsafe, exploring alternative securing methods, and conducting timely maintenance — as well as a public call for the dredging of the Todd River as part of flood mitigation planning. The river is described as looking “more like a bowl than a river,” highlighting the urgency of preparing for potential heavy summer rains.Listeners hear about civic empowerment: how residents can form organisations like the Ratepayers Association to influence local government, the role of community reporting, and the value of being proactive rather than reactive. The episode also references an interview on ABC Radio and emphasizes that saving even one life validates the effort.Throughout, the host stresses the balance between protecting urban trees and protecting people: "I love trees... but I love people even more." The episode urges practical preparedness (flood, storm, fire and snake readiness), community engagement, and simple, tangible actions citizens can take to help make Alice Springs safer.This is episode 1,446 of Blind Magic Communications Production.

In this episode the host and coach reflects on adaptation, resilience, and the power of exercise to combat negativity in education and society. Speaking from Alice Springs, he explains how embracing hot conditions and moderate altitude can boost red blood cell production and endurance, shares scientific and coaching perspectives on safely training in heat, and cites African runners as examples of athletes who thrive in extreme environments.The coach discusses the mental benefits of fitness—how feeling strong and powerful protects young people from self-doubt and harmful trends that encourage body uncertainty. He raises concerns about current influences on children, including the push toward medical interventions and identity confusion, and stresses that building physical and psychological strength is a natural way to resist those pressures.Practical points covered include monitoring safety signals (dizziness, pins and needles), encouraging athletes to relish rather than retreat from heat, and using consistent training and positive self-talk to develop confidence. The episode emphasizes the coach’s role working with junior athletes to provide exercise, psychological support, and a framework for positivity that leads to both personal well-being and competitive success.Episode 1445 of a Blind Man to Communications production: a call to prioritize natural, science-backed training, foster belief and resilience in young people, and counter negative cultural forces through sport, climate adaptation, and community coaching.

In episode 1,444 the host delivers a passionate solo monologue about the influence of the education system on today’s children and the broader social consequences. The episode tackles how persistent doomsday messaging about the climate can sap hope, discourage young people from starting families and contribute to problems such as youth unrest. The presenter argues that fear-based teaching is having real demographic and social effects, including a decline in birth rates.Using a personal anecdote about his pet dog adapting to warming weather—seeking cool tiles and sipping more water—the host uses adaptation as the central metaphor and policy prescription. He contrasts natural, everyday adaptation with the pessimistic narrative being pushed in classrooms, and calls for a different approach to educating young people: one that emphasizes resilience, practical adaptation to changing seasons and a positive outlook for the future.Key points include a critique of negative climate messaging in schools, the importance of teaching adaptation rather than alarmism, the links the host draws between fear-based education and youth crime, and an appeal to parents, teachers and policymakers to promote hope and flexibility. The episode closes with a clear call to shift educational narratives toward constructive solutions so children can feel empowered rather than despairing.This episode is a Blind Magic Communications production.

Host Murray Stewart opens this episode with the formation of the brand-new Alice Springs Ratepayers Association — the first strong ratepayers' voice in the town in 44 years. Joined by co-presenter Hayley, Murray explains why the group was created and what it aims to achieve for local citizens.The episode focuses on the Association’s very first resolution: a call for the Alice Springs Town Council to conduct an immediate safety audit of all trees in town, with unsafe trees to be either removed or secured. Murray outlines the reasoning — many trees were planted on sandy desert soils ill-suited to a forest-style urban canopy, and only native, desert-hardy species are appropriate. He highlights the timing of the motion ahead of the stormy season and recalls the 2011 massive storm as a warning.Murray describes recent incidents where trees fell in the CBD, near the Alice Plaza shopping precinct and along the Todd River, emphasizing the potential danger to pedestrians and property. He reports that the motion has already been conveyed to the Mayor and urges the council’s tree crew to act quickly to prevent injury or worse.The episode closes with a broader public call-to-action: if listeners notice potentially dangerous trees in their own towns, contact your local council now. Key takeaways include proactive community advocacy, urban planning suited to desert environments, and prioritizing public safety. This episode is a Blind Man to Communications production.

In Episode 1442 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs, host Murray Stewart returns after a break to discuss his recent work forming the Alice Springs Ratepayers Association and the broader cultural battle he sees unfolding in schools and society. In a solo episode, Murray shares personal stories about his children and grandchildren, recounts confronting a school activity he felt crossed a line, and explains why he believes parents must be vigilant about changes in the curriculum and school programming.The episode covers Murray’s concerns about what he describes as the left’s influence on education and the media, historical context tracing strategy back to Trotsky-era tactics, and contemporary examples he feels illustrate the dangers of ideological takeover—ranging from classroom events to extreme cases of youth radicalization and violence. He references high-profile figures and incidents that, in his view, show where such radicalization can lead and warns parents to act quickly if their school’s values conflict with their own.Throughout the episode Murray balances a strong call to action—stand up for family values, monitor your children’s schooling, and remove them from harmful environments if necessary—with personal restraint: urging listeners to remain calm, vigilant and educated rather than succumbing to extremism. He shares the motto he finds grounding, “this shall pass,” and closes with pragmatic advice for protecting family harmony while engaging in cultural pushback.This episode is a mix of local activism, cultural commentary, and a personal appeal to parents and grandparents to safeguard their children’s minds and uphold what Murray calls ‘‘normal family values.’’ It ends with reflections on the emotional toll these issues can take and a reminder to stay balanced while confronting ideological change.

welcome to everyone, wherever you are in the world, because wow, there are some places in the world that are tragedy-stricken. In this episode of Help Me Out Here, Hayley (episode 1,441) speaks directly and passionately about global conflict, gratitude, and the blessings of living in Australia. Hayley reflects on the heartbreaking realities faced by people born into war-torn regions across Africa and the Middle East, contrasts that with the relative safety and opportunity in Australia, and urges listeners to stop fighting and stop the killing. Coverage includes a personal anecdote about divorce and the host’s belief that most people do not wake up wanting to harm others, discussion of cycles of violence that can trap communities for decades, and a call for world leaders and powerful nations to pursue peace. Hayley also shares a view that leaders working for peace—citing Donald Trump as an example of someone she feels is trying to avoid foreign entanglements—deserve support for peace efforts, and argues that national defence forces should primarily serve to protect their own countries rather than engage in protracted overseas wars. The episode touches on domestic concerns too, such as pockets of youth violence in Australia and the need to support families and communities. Throughout, Hayley encourages listeners who live in Australia to be thankful, to keep family close, and to approach each day with positivity and purpose. Key points: a heartfelt plea to end violence, gratitude for safety and opportunity in Australia, the role of leaders in promoting peace, the proper use of defence forces, and the importance of family and faith. No external guests are featured; this is a solo reflection by Hayley produced by Blind Magic Communications.

Hosted by Murray Stewart, this episode is a personal tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, named by Murray as his person of the century so far. He reflects on her lifelong humility, dignity, and the quiet strength she embodied despite great wealth and global prominence.Murray weaves together vivid personal anecdotes that illustrate the overwhelming power of nature — a childhood moment at Taronga Park Zoo when a giraffe lifted him from his feet, a frightening run behind a bull named Sugar on his hobby farm in the Hunter Valley, and a night on the Great Ocean Road when he felt the ocean’s deep, growling power. These stories serve as concrete reminders of how small we are beside nature’s forces.The episode explores how those encounters with animals and the sea shaped Murray’s view on humility, respect, and the human tendency to arm ourselves to bridge the gap between our frailty and nature’s strength. He urges listeners to reflect on their own experiences and to follow the example of Queen Elizabeth II by remaining humble and respectful in the face of greater forces.This is a solo episode (no external guests). Episode 1440 is produced by Blind Magic Communications and closes with Murray’s invitation for listeners to reflect on humility and the lessons nature teaches us.

It's Blind Magic in Alice Springs with Murray Stewart, episode 1439, a Blind Magic Communications production. In this reflective monologue Murray explores the paradox of beauty and danger in the natural world and in human life, using vivid examples — a hill fire’s evening glow, a stoic lion, migrating whales, and a baby saltwater crocodile held at Crocodylus Park in Darwin — to show how things that can harm us can also inspire awe.Murray uses those images to move into a deeper discussion about people, memory and moral formation. He argues that even those who become violent or monstrous were once small children in someone’s arms, and that how we raise and love our children matters profoundly. The episode focuses on parenting, human conditioning, and the power of unconditional love as a protective influence that can steer a child away from harmful choices later in life.There are no guests — this is a personal, compassionate address from the host. Key points include the coexistence of danger and beauty, the unforgettable impact of early touch and words, the responsibility parents bear to offer consistent, unconditional love, and the hope that such love can prevent tragic outcomes. Listeners can expect a poetic, moral meditation that blends nature imagery with a call to nurture and empathy.

In episode 1,400, host Murray Stewart shares a candid, heartfelt declaration: at 62 years old he’s decided to "release the shackles" and finally pursue long‑held ambitions. Murray reflects on missed opportunities, the practical barriers that held him back (especially money), and the small but decisive steps he’s now taking to change course.Topics covered include Murray’s personal reinvention, recent job applications, the realities of financial constraints, and a renewed focus on actions that don’t require large sums of money. He also announces a meeting to launch the Alice Springs Ratepayers Association and teases a brand‑new podcast in the works, while reaffirming his commitment to continue broadcasting on Blind Magic in Alice Springs.Guest appearance: Murray briefly turns to Hayley (38) during the episode, and the conversation underscores the episode’s central themes of community involvement, courage to act later in life, and the belief that many people have gifts worth sharing. Listeners can expect candid storytelling, practical encouragement to pursue their own goals, and an uplifting call to take immediate, achievable steps toward change.Key takeaways: it’s never too late to start; obligations often feel limiting but can be worked around; small, low‑cost actions can kickstart bigger changes; and community projects (like the new ratepayers association) can be powerful outlets for purpose and impact.

Magic Communications production, but it's Blind Magic in Alice Springs, most importantly, and I am your presenter and host, Murray Stewart. In this episode (1437) Murray opens with a personal mission: tackling male suicide and domestic violence by talking about the many good men in our communities and the crisis facing men today.The episode covers stark statistics — including that around 80% of the world’s suicides are men — and explores the idea that men are in crisis. Murray discusses why he believes it’s important to talk men up, support our youth, and provide practical tools that can intervene in moments of crisis.Murray introduces his concept for a simple, discreet device he calls the “cool-down squeeze”: a water-bottle–sized, wireless squeeze-activated alarm designed to contact five preselected mentors through an app and location system to provide immediate human connection and de-escalation. He explains how a single squeeze would notify trusted contacts to locate and talk someone down from suicidal intent or potential violence, offering details on the intended functionality and real-world use.The discussion includes practical considerations and costs — roughly just over $100,000 to build a prototype and about $500,000 to bring the product to market — and Murray’s frank admission that, as a pensioner, he cannot fund the project himself. He names potential collaborators (for example, Live Life Alarm) and openly invites companies, developers, or social entrepreneurs to take the idea, develop it, and bring it to market.The episode is equal parts personal plea and practical pitch: Murray describes his willingness to waive legal claims and urges others to ‘steal’ the idea so it can become a tool to reduce suicide and domestic violence. Listeners can expect a heartfelt, grassroots call to action aimed at saving lives and supporting men in crisis.