What if the life you imagined - the one you worked for, planned for, and dreamed about - didn’t turn out the way you thought? And what if, instead of breaking you, it became the beginning of something extraordinary?Today’s guest is Kelly Donougher, founder and director of 13 Interiors, one of Australia’s leading interior design studios. With studios in Perth and Melbourne, her work has been featured everywhere from Adore Magazine to Home Beautiful and Channel 9. A talented woman, Kelly recently added a new title to her name: author. Her debut memoir, No Fence, No Limits, shares the raw and unconventional journey that led her to create 13 Interiors and to redefine what it means to design a life on your own terms. In this conversation, Kelly opens up about creativity, resilience, and why some of the most powerful designs begin well beyond the blueprint.For more information about Kelly, check out these places;-Find Kelly's Book here: No Fence, No LimitsWebsite:   Kelly DonougherLinkedin:  Kelly DonougherInstagram: 13 InteriorsHead to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)Connect with Michelle on Facebook here - @michellejcox (https://www.facebook.com/coxxygal/)AND, if you have a burning topic you’d love people to talk more about,

Small, consistent practices are the key to big change in mental health.In this conversation, Cooper discusses the critical need for mental health action rather than just awareness. He shares insights from his journey with the Good Human Factory, emphasising the importance of daily mental health practices, the role of habits, and the power of communication and connection. Cooper encourages listeners to take responsibility for their mental health and offers practical tips for integrating mindfulness and gratitude into daily life. He envisions a future where a significant portion of the population dedicates time to their mental health, leading to profound societal changes.His approach is grounded in both vulnerability and practicality. By sharing his own story alongside evidence-based tools like gratitude and mindfulness, he shows that mental health is not just about illness, but about how we live every day. In this episode, Cooper opens up about identity, resilience, and the small shifts that can make a big difference.Key Takeaways:-* Mental health action is crucial, not just awareness.* Starting with 1% of your day can make a difference.* Daily mindfulness and gratitude practices are essential.* Don't judge yourself for taking time for mental health.* Communication is key to building connections.* Self-awareness helps break unhealthy patterns.* Incremental growth leads to significant change.* Nature and grounding have positive effects on mental health.* Exercise and healthy eating are foundational habits.* Community support enhances mental health practices.* For more information about Cooper, check out these places;-Find Coopers Book here: The 1% Good ClubWebsite:   The Good Human FactoryLinkedin:  Cooper ChapmanInstagram: Cooper Chapman

Scared AI will replace you? My guest Leanne Shelton will share how to flip your mindset — and use AI to your advantage. Leanne is the CEO and Founder of HumanEdge AI Training, where she helps leaders and professionals around the world navigate the fast-changing world of AI with confidence. With a background in marketing, copywriting, and training, she brings a rare blend of communication skills and technical insight, making AI accessible to people who don’t consider themselves “techy.”After running a successful content agency for over a decade, Leanne pivoted into AI training and has since delivered coaching, keynote presentations, and conference workshops across Australia and Southeast Asia. Her people-first philosophy focuses on using AI ethically, effectively, and in ways that enhance — not replace — human connection.Leanne is also the author of AI-Human Fusion, a practical guide to understanding and applying AI for busy professionals. Through her work, she’s helped thousands of people shift their mindset, unlock new opportunities, and see AI as a partner rather than a threat.In this episode, Leanne shares her insights on the future of AI, why a human-first approach matters, and how anyone can start using it with confidence.For more information about Leanne, check out these places;-Find Leanne's Book here: AI Human FusionWebsite:   Human Edge AI Linkedin:  Leanne SheltonInstagram: Leanne SheltonHead to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:-

What does it take to create lasting, strengths-based change? Today’s guest, Dr Michelle McQuaid unpacks the science of wellbeing and why leaders need to make it a priority now. Dr. Michelle is a globally sought-after leadership and wellbeing expert who’s worked with everyone from Deloitte and IBM to the Dubai Government and Harley Davidson. She has a gift for turning cutting-edge research into simple, practical strategies that help people thrive at work and in life. I’ve brought Michelle on today to talk about a research piece that has just been released revealing what’s called a ‘Quiet Cracking phenomenon’. Not a term I’d heard of before, but, you recognise the feeling of holding it all together on the outside, but on the inside feeling like you're falling apart? That's quiet cracking. Let’s learn more about it..For more information about Dr Michelle, check out these places;-Website:   Dr Michelle McQuaid Linkedin:  Dr Michelle McQuaidHead to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)Connect with Michelle on Facebook here - @michellejcox (https://www.facebook.com/coxxygal/)AND, if you have a burning topic you’d love people to talk more about, or know someone who’d be great to come on the One Question podcast, please get in touch;-

What if the skills that matter most in life aren’t technical at all, but deeply human?Today’s guest, Bethan Winn, reveals why critical thinking and connection might just be your ultimate superpowers.  Speaker, facilitator, author, and director of Human Skills Co, for more than 20 years, Bethan has been showing people how to sharpen the skills that no AI or textbook can replace: critical thinking, communication, and human connection. In this conversation, Bethan shares why these “human skills” matter more than ever, and how a few simple shifts can change the way you think, work, and relate to the world around you.For more information about Bethan, check out these places;-Website:   Bethan Winn (https://www.bethanwinn.com.au/)Linkedin:  Bethan Winn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethan-winn-21290331/)Instagram:   @bethan_winn_critical_thinking (https://www.instagram.com/bethan_winn_critical_thinking/)Head to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)Connect with Michelle on Facebook here - @michellejcox (https://www.facebook.com/coxxygal/)AND, if you have a burning topic you’d love people to talk more about, or know someone who’d be great to come on the One Question podcast, please get in touch;hello@michellejcox.com (mailto:hello@michellejcox.com)

I first met today’s guest over six years ago, and she was the first person to talk about personal brand in a way that truly made sense to me. Carlii Lyon has been shaping the reputations of remarkable individuals from across the globe for over two decades. As a former international personal publicist, her past clients include a world-leading supermodel, New York Times bestselling authors, inventors, musicians and even a British celebrity foot reader!Today, Carlii is dedicated to helping emerging leaders shape their personal brands, confidently communicate their value, and become intentionally visible to the audiences that matter. Recognised as a thought leader on the topic, Carlii has been invited to speak to the teams of iconic brands internationally; including the likes of Financial Times, Spotify, Microsoft, Warner Discovery Group and L’Oréal to name a few. She is the author of Courage to Be – Small Steps for a Big Life and a regular contributor to Forbes on the topic of personal branding. Her work has also been featured in Smart Company, CEO Magazine, Sky News and The Sunday Telegraph.For more information about Carlii, check out these places;-Website: CarliiLyon (https://www.carliilyon.com.au/) Instagram: @carlii_lyon (https://www.instagram.com/carlii_lyon/?hl=en)Head to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)Connect with Michelle on Facebook here - @michellejcox (https://www.facebook.com/coxxygal/)AND, if you have a burning topic you’d love people to talk more about, or know someone who’d be great to come on the One Question podcast, please get in touch;- 

Imagine waking up one day and feeling completely disconnected from your own life, almost like watching a film where you’re the main character, but you feel nothing. That’s the reality of d...

What does it take to create a culture where kindness is the norm and bullying has no place? Today’s guest, the wonderful Janet Grima, is the CEO of Bully Zero, Australia’s leading bullying prevention organisation, where she’s leading a national movement to build safer, more compassionate communities.With a background in marketing consultancy and leadership roles across major health and advocacy organisations, Janet brings both strategic insight and heartfelt purpose to her work. Since taking the reins at Bully Zero in 2021, she’s expanded the organisation’s reach and impact, securing over $3 million in corporate funding and championing programs in schools, workplaces, and communities that tackle bullying, digital safety, and mental wellbeing head-on.In this episode, we explore the real-world impact of bullying, the role of education in culture change, and how Janet is turning empathy into action, one conversation, one community at a time. Janet and the organisation are doing extraordinary work and I hope you enjoy meeting her…For more information about Janet, check out these places;-Website: https://www.bullyzero.org.au/ (https://www.bullyzero.org.au/) Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-grima-5569298/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-grima-5569298/) Instagram:   @janetgrima (https://www.instagram.com/janetgrima)Head to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)Connect with Michelle on Facebook here - @michellejcox (https://www.facebook.com/coxxygal/)AND, if you have a burning topic you’d love people to talk more about, or know someone who’d be great to come on the One Question podcast, please get in touch;-

What if artificial intelligence could actually level the playing field, rather than widen the gaps? Today’s guest, Dr. Nici Sweaney, is a global leader in ethical AI who’s making that vision a reality. With nearly two decades of experience as a data strategist and academic scientist, Dr Nici brings both deep technical expertise and a powerful sense of purpose to her work.As the founder of AI Her Way, and a Senior Fellow for the AI for Developing Countries Forum, she’s helped shape global conversations on AI’s role in gender equity, education, and sustainable development, advising organisations from the UN and World Bank to startups and schools. Dr Nici has advised over 60 organisations across sectors on adopting AI ethically, effectively, and impactfully - streamlining operations, reducing inequities, and future-proofing businesses and institutions. She is the architect of the EquiAI Framework, a globally adaptable model for AI literacy and governance that ensures AI-driven innovation is equitable, sustainable, and accountable - preventing it from reinforcing existing disparities.Named one of Microsoft News’ "Top 10 Trailblazing Entrepreneurs in AI to Follow in 2024," Dr Sweaney is a compelling thought leader and dynamic speaker. She has delivered 65+ high-profile talks, including TEDx, and continues to drive conversations on how AI can level the playing field, create opportunities, and reduce global disparities.I recently met Nici at an event, loved her insights and was keen to delve more into what ethical AI really means, how it’s already impacting our lives, and why responsible tech isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Can’t wait for you to meet this incredible woman. For more information about Dr Nici, check out these places;-Free Course: Gen AI Essentials for Time-Starved LeadersWebsite: AI Her WayLinkedin: Dr Nici SweaneyInstagram: Dr Nici SweaneyHead to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast,

What happens when the “good girl” rules you've followed your whole life turn out to be the very things holding you back? Today’s guest, Kasey Edwards, is a bestselling author and one of Australia’s most beloved column...

What if you could hack your biology to feel better, think clearer and live longer? Today’s guest, Camilla Thompson, is one of Australia’s leading voices in biohacking, personalised nutriti...

What if reinvention wasn’t just possible—but a skill you could master? Today’s guest, Gary Waldon, has lived it. A transformational change specialist with over 44 jobs under his belt—including topless waiter, startup founder, lecturer, and CEO advisor—Gary’s life is a masterclass in adaptability.With two master’s degrees and career experience spanning health, finance, aviation, and tech, he’s helped countless individuals and organisations embrace change and come out stronger. He’s also the bestselling author of Sort Your Sh!t Out—and his new book, Mastering the Art of Reinvention, is a timely guide for anyone facing disruption, whether it’s a career pivot, a personal crisis, or the fast-changing world of AI.In this episode, Gary shares his no-nonsense, “give it a go” approach to navigating change, why reinvention isn’t just for rock bottoms, and how to stay relevant in an unpredictable world. This one’s packed with wisdom, grit, and a healthy dose of humour. Let’s dive in.Gary’s new book is available here;- Mastering the Art of Reinvention (https://www.garywaldon.com/mastering-the-art-of-reinvention)For more information about Gary, check out these places;-Website: Gary WaldonLinkedin: Gary WaldonInstagram:   Gary WaldonHead to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)Connect with Michelle on Facebook here - @michellejcox (https://www.facebook.com/coxxygal/)AND, if you have a burning topic you’d love people to talk more about,

At just 24, Rebecca Klodinsky turned $2,000 into a global swimwear brand, IIXIIST, worn by the likes of Kylie Jenner, Rihanna, Hailey Bieber. and Kim Kardashian. Built without investors, retail stores, or influencer hype, she proved that smart digital strategy and authentic branding could outperform traditional retail.Nine years later, Rebecca co-founded The Prestwick Place, a modern, ethical fine jewellery brand, alongside her husband, former AFL player Lachie Henderson. Focused on lab-grown diamonds, bespoke craftsmanship, and transparent pricing, the brand has redefined luxury for the next generation, scaling to over $3 million in annual sales with 75% of purchases coming directly from Instagram.Bec likes to solve problems. She couldn’t find the bikini she wanted, so she went to Indonesia and found a factory that would make it for her. When she and Lachie started talking about tying the knot in 2020, the more Bec learned about the diamond trade and what a ‘bad investment’ mined diamonds were, she learnt all she could about the lab-grown trade. I wanted to hear more from Bec on how she built not one, but two powerhouse brands as well as having two young children and navigating all that entails. If you're into disrupting industries, building high-conversion brands, or redefining what modern luxury looks like, this one’s for you. Let's dive in.For more information about Rebecca, check out these places;-Website: Prestwick PlaceInstagram:   Preswick PlacePodcast:   Two Wrongs Make a RebeccaHead to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)Connect with Michelle on Facebook here -

What do gorillas, gender roles, and glass ceilings have in common? Today’s guest, Erna Walraven, knows the answer firsthand. One of Australia’s first female zookeepers, Erna spent two decades as Senior Curator at Taro...

Conflict is inevitable in relationships—but what if we could turn every moment of tension into a path toward deeper connection? Today’s guest, James ‘Fish’ Gill, has spent over 15 years helping individuals, couples, and communities do just that. As a relationship communication coach, Fish has listened to tens of thousands of conflicts, developing a unique method of conscious communication that transforms upset back to safety, mutual understanding, and open-heartedness.His Heart Coach method has been shared with individuals and couples across 16 countries, as well as therapists, facilitators, and educators in Australia, the US, and Europe. As the director of Lead by Heart, Fish is redefining how we approach conflict—not as something to fear, but as an opportunity for growth.In this episode, we explore the art of communication, the patterns that keep us stuck, and how we can all learn to navigate relationships with more grace and authenticity. It’s a big one.. hope you’re ready to meet this impressive human…**Find James’ new book here: How to Fall in Love with HumanityFor more information about James, check out these places;-Website: Lead By HeartInstagram: Jame 'Fish' GillHead to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)Connect with Michelle on Facebook here - @michellejcox (https://www.facebook.com/coxxygal/)AND, if you have a burning topic you’d love people to talk more about, or know someone who’d be great to come on the One Question podcast, please get in touch;-

Today’s guest, Rachael Coopes, has spent over two decades bringing stories to life—on screen, stage, and the page. As a beloved presenter on Play School, an award-winning writer, actor, and producer, Rachael is a master of storytelling. But beyond entertainment, she has a deeper mission: to translate ancient wisdom into lessons that resonate in our modern world.Whether through children’s television, theatre, or the written word, Rachael has a gift for making complex ideas simple and meaningful. Her books, Find Your Strength and Paris for Beginners, explore personal growth, resilience, and the art of reinvention. And her brand new book The Art of Forgiveness covers the often tricky topic of why you should forgive and the beautiful power in forgiving yourself.  I wanted to learn more about why this was a topic Rachael was passionate about and gain any learnings on why we should be prioritising the art of forgiveness in our everyday lives. Let’s meet Rachael..Find Rachael’s new book here: The Art of ForgivenessFor more information about Rachael, check out these places;-Website: Rachael CoopesInstagram:   Rachael CoopesLinkedin: Rachael CoopesHead to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)

What is it about stories that shape us, move us, and help make sense of the world? Today’s guest, Carol Lefevre, is a master of the craft. With eight books to her name, along with award-nominated novellas, essays, ...

Anxiety is often seen as something to fear, feel shame about and ‘manage’—but what if we could reset our idea around what anxiety is telling us and make it our friend? 

Have you ever heard of the concept of spontaneous shaking before? The topic on the show today is one I’ve been really interested in learning more about. My guest, Richmond Heath, is a pioneering force in health innovation and cultural change. A physiotherapist with over 30 years of experience, Richmond introduced TRE (Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercises) to Australia in 2010, training over 5,000 people in the deliberate use of spontaneous shaking for healing. During COVID, he created the world’s first online TRE course, which has since reached over 13,000 participants globally.His work extends beyond borders, providing trauma recovery support to survivors of Bushfires, Earthquakes, and war-torn regions. With a background in mental health, men’s work, and an Advanced Diploma in Aboriginal Studies, Richmond blends science, cultural wisdom, and a deep commitment to human healing.I’m keen to learn more about his transformative journey—from high-functioning anxiety to a life of purpose—and explore how shaking might just be the missing link in trauma recovery and personal growth. Hope you’re ready for a fascinating conversation - I’m excited!For more information about Richmond, check out these places;-Website: Richmond HeathInstagram:   Richmond HeathLinkedin: Richmond HeathHead to michellejcox.com for more information about the ONE QUESTION podcast, your host or today’s guestsConnect with Michelle on Linkedin here:- @MichelleJCox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/)Connect with Michelle on Instagram here:- @michellejcox (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/)Connect with Michelle on Facebook here - @michellejcox (https://www.facebook.com/coxxygal/)AND, if you have a burning topic you’d love people to talk more about,

Some stories demand to be told—not just for the sake of the storyteller, but for the change they can spark. Today’s guest, Sonia Orchard, is an award-winning author whose latest book, Groo...