A Life of Greatness

What is your child being exposed to on their phone,and would they tell you if something went wrong? Parenting educator and bestselling author Maggie Dent returns to A Life of Greatness with Sarah Grynberg to discuss her new book, Digital Freedom, and the online dangers parents can’t afford to overlook. From pornography and cyberbullying to deepfakes, sextortion and AI companions, Maggie explains what parents need to understand, and how to protect children while keeping their trust. You’ll learn: How algorithms can lead children towards harmful content. How to set phone boundaries without shutting down communication. When to talk about pornography and online safety. How to support children through exclusion, teenage emotions and self-harm. Your child doesn’t need you to know everything about technology. They need to know they can tell you anything. This is an essential conversation for anyone trying to raise children in a world unlike the one we grew up in, and a powerful reminder that beneath all the…

Here’s something we’re rarely told about family: you can love someone, care about them and still not particularly like them. In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah explores why accepting that truth can actually make difficult family relationships easier — especially when you stop expecting someone to become the person you wish they were. Maybe it’s the parent who never gives you the emotional support you need. The sibling who turns everything into a competition. Or the family member who always seems to know exactly which button to push. Often, the frustration isn’t just about who they are — it’s about who you keep hoping they’ll eventually become. Sarah shares three practical ways to protect your peace: lower your expectations without lowering your standards, decide your boundaries before you see them, and stop taking the bait when familiar comments inevitably come. Because acceptance doesn’t mean approving of someone’s behaviour. It means recognising what they are capable of giving you — and choosing…

What happens when powerful people stop hearing the word no? In this compelling episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with journalist, author and Rampart founder Joe Aston for a candid conversation about power, ambition, addiction and the stories that have defined his career. Joe shares his unlikely journey from working inside Qantas PR to becoming one of the journalists most closely associated with scrutinising the airline and its former CEO, Alan Joyce. He reveals the moment he believed something had shifted in Joyce, and what reporting on Australia’s most powerful people taught him about ego and influence. Joe also opens up about his difficult relationship with alcohol, how drinking became intertwined with his career in journalism, and the frightening point when it began affecting his ability to think, remember words and write. You’ll learn: What Joe believes prolonged power can do to a person Why success can sometimes enable destructive behaviour What finally forced Joe to confront his…

You can have the house, the career, the family and a life you once dreamed about — and still somehow feel like you’re falling behind. In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah explores the hidden reason so many of us struggle to feel satisfied with what we have: we’ve quietly turned the people around us into our competition. A friend renovates and suddenly your kitchen feels tired. Someone books an incredible holiday and your weekend away feels small. They get the promotion, buy the car or hit another milestone — and although you’re genuinely happy for them, underneath it can sit that uncomfortable thought: Am I falling behind? Sarah unpacks the psychology of relative deprivation, why our brains naturally judge what we have against the people around us, and how social media has supercharged that comparison by exposing us to thousands of carefully curated lives every day. Because comparison doesn’t just steal your joy. It can quietly decide how much joy you believe you’re allowed to have in the first place.…

On December 14, 2025, Valentyna and Michael Britvan took their daughters to a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach. It was meant to be an afternoon of family, food and celebration. Instead, gunmen opened fire on the crowd, killing their 10-year-old daughter, Matilda. In their first sit-down podcast interview, Matilda’s parents join Sarah Grynberg for one of the most important and deeply moving conversations ever shared on A Life of Greatness. Valentyna and Michael speak candidly about what happened during the Bondi massacre, the desperate moments trying to save Matilda and the unimaginable reality of learning to live without their daughter. They also share who Matilda truly was: funny, kind, generous and deeply loved. A beautiful Australian Jewish girl who loved playing with her sister, giving hugs and making people smile. In this episode, you’ll hear: What happened to the Britvan family at Bondi Beach How they are navigating grief and unimaginable loss Their concerns about antisemitism and safety in…

Dolly Parton was famous for the big hair, rhinestones, unmistakable voice and infectious personality. But behind it all was an extraordinarily sharp woman who understood something powerful: being underestimated can be an advantage. In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah reflects on Dolly’s journey from growing up as one of 12 children in rural Tennessee to building an extraordinary career on her own terms. At the heart of the episode is a defining decision: when Elvis Presley wanted to record I Will Always Love You, Dolly refused to give up half of her publishing rights — even though saying no meant walking away from a dream. Years later, Whitney Houston’s recording would prove just how significant protecting her ownership had been. For Sarah, Dolly’s story carries a lesson far bigger than music: know what you’re worth, protect what belongs to you and don’t give it away simply to be liked, accepted or to keep someone more powerful happy. Let people underestimate you. You don’t have to convince them…

Are you dealing with a narcissist, whether it’s a partner, parent or someone at work, and how do you protect yourself when you can’t simply leave? In this episode, Sarah Grynberg speaks with Dr Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, bestselling author and one of the world’s leading experts on narcissism and narcissistic abuse. You’ll learn: The warning signs of narcissism How to recognise love bombing, gaslighting and manipulation Why trauma bonding makes unhealthy relationships difficult to leave How to deal with narcissistic parents How narcissistic bosses and toxic workplaces operate Whether a narcissist can ever truly change How radical acceptance can help you protect yourself How to rebuild your identity and trust your intuition after narcissistic abuse This powerful conversation will help you recognise toxic relationship patterns, set boundaries and begin healing, without losing yourself. This episode of A Life of Greatness is proudly brought to you by Chemist Warehouse. At A Life of Greatness, we…

Why are we so quick to tear down people who seem to have everything? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, mindset coach Sarah Grynberg explores the psychology behind jealousy, judgement and our urge to find flaws in people who are beautiful, successful or confident. You’ll learn what your criticism of someone else might actually reveal about you, why diminishing their success could be quietly limiting your own, and how to turn jealousy into something far more useful. Before you judge someone for shining a little too brightly, this episode might make you think twice. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here. To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or here. Watch A Life of Greatness Episodes On Youtube here. Sign up for Sarah’s newsletter (Greatness Guide) here. Purchase Sarah's Meditations here. Instagram: @sarahgrynberg Website: https://sarahgrynberg.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/sarahgrynberg Twitter: twitter.com/sarahgrynberg #SarahsThoughts #SarahGrynberg…

Why does your dog become anxious, destructive or refuse to listen, and what are they really trying to tell you? In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with world renowned dog behaviourist Cesar Millan to uncover what sits behind some of the most common and confusing dog behaviours. Cesar reveals the biggest mistakes owners make, how much exercise dogs really need, the right way to greet a dog, and what may be driving separation anxiety and destructive behaviour. He also explains how dogs communicate, what they can sense that humans often miss, and what it truly takes to raise a calm, happy and balanced dog. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why Cesar believes your dog’s behaviour starts with your own energy The common mistakes we make when walking and greeting our dogs How to choose a dog whose energy suits your lifestyle Cesar’s approach to boundaries, destructive behaviour and separation anxiety Why he says, “I train people, I rehabilitate dogs” What dogs can teach us about presence,…

Why do we sometimes sabotage the very things we’ve worked so hard to get? In this short episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, mindset coach Sarah Grynberg explores why love, success and stability can sometimes make us want to pull away, create conflict or blow things up just when life is going well. You’ll learn why your brain can mistake familiar for safe, how past experiences can shape what feels “normal”, and what to do when something good suddenly starts making you uncomfortable. If you’ve ever wondered why you keep getting in your own way, this episode might change the way you see your behaviour. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here. To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or here. Watch A Life of Greatness Episodes On Youtube here. Sign up for Sarah’s newsletter (Greatness Guide) here. Purchase Sarah's Meditations here. Instagram: @sarahgrynberg Website: https://sarahgrynberg.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/sarahgrynberg Twitter: twitter.com/sarahgrynberg Hosted on Acast. See…

What does it take to build some of Australia’s most iconic restaurants, and what happens when you risk your reputation to speak out against the government? In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with renowned restaurateur Chris Lucas, the man behind some of Melbourne’s most iconic restaurants including Chin Chin, Society, Grill Americano, Maison Bâtard and Yakimono, for a candid conversation about success, resilience, leadership, family and the future of Melbourne. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why Chris publicly took on Daniel Andrews during Melbourne’s lockdowns, and whether he has any regrets • What he believes really happened to Melbourne during COVID and the lasting damage he still sees today • Why losing his father suddenly at 15 changed the trajectory of his life • The mindset that helped him build a hospitality empire employing thousands of people • Why he believes every problem has a solution, even when you can’t immediately see it • How Chris deals with criticism,…

What if procrastination isn’t laziness at all, but your brain trying to protect you from a feeling you don’t want to face? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, mindset coach Sarah Grynberg reveals what may really be behind the things you keep putting off, from fear of failure and overwhelm to the uncomfortable thought that what you create might not be good enough. You’ll learn why pushing yourself harder often doesn’t work, the simple question that can uncover what you’re actually avoiding, and a surprisingly small shift that can help you finally get moving. If there’s something you know you need to do but keep avoiding, listen to this before you call yourself lazy. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here. To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or here. Watch A Life of Greatness Episodes On Youtube here. Sign up for Sarah’s newsletter (Greatness Guide) here. Purchase Sarah's Meditations here. Instagram: @sarahgrynberg Website: https://sarahgrynberg.com/ Facebook:…

What happens when you’ve spent your entire life becoming one of the best swimmers in the world, and suddenly the identity that defined you is gone? In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with Australian swimming legend and two time Olympic gold medallist Grant Hackett for a deeply honest conversation about the mindset behind elite performance, resilience, identity and rebuilding your life when everything changes. Grant reveals the mental strategies that made him virtually unbeatable in the 1500m freestyle, what was going through his mind before winning Olympic gold at Sydney 2000, and opens up about the difficult years after swimming, including the lifeline fellow Olympic champion Michael Phelps offered him during one of his lowest periods. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Grant trained his mind to withstand extraordinary pressure and discomfort • Why losing your identity can be harder than losing your career • How vulnerability helped Grant rebuild his life • The visualisation…

Why does the thing you’ve been desperately wanting so often seem to arrive the moment you finally stop chasing it? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah explores why “letting go” may be more than just a manifestation cliché. When we become fixated on a particular outcome, stress can narrow our attention so intensely that we stop noticing opportunities that don’t look exactly the way we expected them to. Sarah unpacks the idea of cognitive tunnelling, how pressure can keep us locked onto one version of what we think should happen, and why loosening our grip can allow us to see possibilities that may have been there all along. This isn’t about giving up on what you want. It’s about continuing to show up and do the work without demanding that life deliver the outcome in one particular way. Sometimes the opportunity doesn’t come through the door you’ve been watching. Sometimes it comes sideways. And perhaps letting go isn’t about wanting something less — it’s about becoming open enough to recognise it when…

What if the key to a better life isn’t controlling what happens to you, but learning how to respond when life doesn’t go your way? In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with bestselling author and modern Stoic philosopher Ryan Holiday to reveal how Stoicism can help you stop overthinking, let go of what you can’t control and find greater peace in an uncertain world. Ryan shares powerful lessons on ego, discipline, resilience and memento mori, the ancient practice of remembering that life is finite, and explains why accepting this can completely change the way you live. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How to stop wasting energy on what you can’t control • Why ego may be getting in the way of your happiness and success • How to build discipline, resilience and a stronger mindset • Why remembering that life is finite can help you live more fully If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck or caught in the pressure to constantly achieve, this conversation will help you focus on what truly…

What if the life you've been waiting for is already here... and you're too busy to notice it? In this episode of Sarah's Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg reflects on the ordinary moments that quietly become the ones we miss the most. Through a simple story about an ordinary Tuesday afternoon with her son, Sarah explores why we spend so much of life waiting for the big milestones, while the moments that shape us often pass unnoticed. Drawing on neuroscience, she explains why the memories that stay with us aren't necessarily the biggest ones—they're the moments we were fully present for. The conversations after school, the slow Saturday mornings, the bedtime routines, and the fleeting moments that seem insignificant until they're gone. This episode is a gentle reminder to slow down, put the phone away, and recognise that the life you're working so hard to build may already be unfolding in front of you. Because one day, you'll wish for just one more ordinary Tuesday. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness…

What if the thoughts keeping you stuck aren't facts, but patterns you can learn to step away from? On this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with clinical psychologist and Unstuck author Dr Emily Musgrove to explore why we get trapped in cycles of overthinking, rumination and self-doubt, and how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help us create a richer, more meaningful life. Emily shares practical tools to help you stop battling your thoughts, reconnect with your values and move forward with greater clarity and purpose. She also opens up about being diagnosed with breast cancer at just 39 while raising young children, and how facing her own mortality completely changed the way she thinks about life, love and what truly matters. In this episode, you'll learn: • How to break free from rumination and catastrophic thinking • Why your thoughts aren't facts • The difference between pain and suffering • How to reconnect with your values and what really matters • Why comparison steals joy…

What if the hardest part of chasing your dreams isn't starting... but continuing when nothing seems to be happening? In this episode of Sarah's Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg explores the uncomfortable middle, that season of life where you're doing the work, showing up every day, yet can't see any evidence that you're getting closer to the life you want. Drawing on neuroscience and psychology, Sarah explains why our brains naturally crave certainty, why doubt often appears just before meaningful growth, and why feeling stuck isn't a sign you've failed—it's often a sign you're growing. If you've ever questioned whether your dream is worth pursuing, this episode is a powerful reminder that progress isn't always visible. Sometimes the greatest transformation is happening beneath the surface, long before the results arrive. Sarah also shares three practical mindset shifts to help you stay the course, trust the process, and keep moving forward, even when the path ahead feels uncertain. Because the life you're building…

Why do so many loving relationships lose their passion? Has technology changed the way we connect forever? And what does it really take to build a love that stays alive? In one of the most anticipated conversations on A Life of Greatness, world-renowned psychotherapist, bestselling author and relationship expert Esther Perel returns to the podcast for a profound discussion about love, intimacy, desire and the changing landscape of modern relationships. Twenty years after her groundbreaking book Mating in Captivity, Esther reflects on why her work feels more relevant than ever. She and Sarah explore why certainty has become one of the greatest threats to romance, why love and desire aren't always driven by the same forces, and why so many of us are unknowingly starving our relationships of the very things that keep them alive. In this episode, you'll learn: Why the person who feels like home can be the last person you desire The quiet habit that kills attraction in long-term relationships Why great sex has…

Have you ever walked away from a conversation with a friend feeling smaller than when you arrived? In this episode of Sarah's Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg explores one of the most difficult and often unspoken dynamics in adult friendships: jealousy. Why do some people celebrate our struggles but seem distant when we succeed? Why can good news sometimes change the energy in the room? And how do we know when a friendship is genuinely supportive, or quietly holding us back? Drawing on neuroscience, Sarah explains how feelings of scarcity and low self-worth can shape the way people respond to someone else's success. More importantly, she shares how to recognise the difference between isolated moments and unhealthy patterns, trust your intuition, and protect your emotional wellbeing without guilt. This episode is a reminder that the people closest to you should never make you feel smaller. They should celebrate your growth, champion your dreams, and make you feel more like yourself, not less. If this conversation…

Can mediumship be explained? Can grief ever truly heal? And what happens when science meets spirituality? Sarah Grynberg sits down with internationally renowned psychic medium John Edward for the third time to explore questions that have fascinated humanity for centuries. With over four decades of experience, John shares what it's really like to communicate with those who have passed, the difference between being a psychic and a medium, and why he believes mediumship should be grounded in evidence and integrity, not blind faith. They also unpack the double-blind studies he took part in with researchers from Harvard, Yale and the University of Arizona, and move into grief, healing, intuition and how to better support someone navigating loss. Whether you're a believer, a skeptic, or simply curious, this is a compassionate, fascinating look at the mysteries that connect us all. In this episode, Sarah's friend Ange even receives a reading of her own. You'll learn: The real difference between a psychic and a…

What if The Testaments isn't a dystopian fantasy... but a warning? In this episode of Sarah's Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg reflects on Margaret Atwood's The Testaments and the uncomfortable parallels between fiction and the reality millions of women are facing today. From Afghanistan, where girls are denied education and women are stripped of basic freedoms, to Iran, where women continue to risk their lives for acts of resistance, Sarah explores how oppression rarely arrives all at once. Instead, it happens gradually—through small compromises, quiet acceptance, and the slow normalisation of what once seemed unimaginable. Drawing on neuroscience and psychology, Sarah explains why our brains are wired to adapt, even when our freedoms are being eroded, and why that makes vigilance more important than ever. This isn't just a conversation about a television series. It's an invitation to pay attention, to question what we accept, and to recognise that freedom is never guaranteed—it must be protected by every…

What if confidence wasn't about becoming someone else, but finally allowing yourself to be who you've always been? In this honest and often hilarious conversation, Sarah Grynberg welcomes back beloved broadcaster, comedian and bestselling author Christian O'Connell to explore his new book, The Radical Act of Being Yourself. Together they unpack why so many of us silence ourselves, perform versions of who we think we should be, and lose confidence in the moments that matter most. Drawing on more than 30 years behind the microphone, Christian reveals why real confidence has almost nothing to do with saying the perfect thing, and everything to do with self-worth, vulnerability and connection. He opens up about anxiety and panic attacks, the practices that changed his relationship with fear, storytelling, grief, comedy and why laughter is one of the most powerful ways we connect. If you have ever second-guessed yourself, worried what others think, or felt like you're living by someone else's script, this episode…

What if one of the biggest drains on your energy isn't what happens to you, but the judgments you make about it? In this episode of Sarah's Thoughts, Sarah explores a simple but powerful idea from A Course in Miracles: "I will judge nothing that occurs today." She reflects on how quickly we form opinions about people, situations and ourselves, often without even realising it, and how those judgments can quietly shape our experience of the world. You'll learn: • Why judgment is often an automatic habit rather than a conscious choice • How to create space between an event and the story you attach to it • Why curiosity can be more powerful than certainty This episode is a gentle invitation to notice your assumptions, question your conclusions, and move through life with a little more openness and a little less certainty. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here. To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or here. Watch A Life of Greatness Episodes On Youtube here. Sign up for…

What if confidence isn’t something you’re born with, but something you create? In this captivating conversation, Sarah Grynberg sits down with the incomparable Dita Von Teese, the undisputed Queen of Burlesque, to explore the mindset, discipline and self-belief behind one of the world's most recognisable personal brands. From growing up in a small town in Michigan to becoming an international icon of glamour, Dita shares how curiosity, creativity and authenticity shaped a career that didn't exist until she created it herself. Together, they discuss the misconceptions surrounding confidence, beauty and femininity, why reinvention has been at the heart of Dita's success, and the importance of embracing your individuality in a world that constantly encourages comparison. Dita also opens up about working with Taylor Swift, maintaining confidence as she ages, navigating criticism in the public eye, and the daily habits that help her stay physically and mentally strong. Whether you're searching for greater…

Are we protecting our children, or are we protecting them from the very experiences they need to grow? In this episode of Sarah's Thoughts, Sarah explores the rise of helicopter parenting and why resilience is built through small moments of discomfort, disappointment and failure. From scraped knees to friendship fallouts, she reflects on the lessons children learn when they're given the space to navigate challenges for themselves. You'll learn: • Why coping with discomfort is a skill that must be developed • The difference between a safe childhood and a sanitized one • How allowing children to struggle can help them become more resilient adults This episode is a gentle reminder that our job isn't to clear every obstacle from our children's path. It's to help them become capable of finding their way through it. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here. To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or here. Watch A Life of Greatness Episodes On Youtube here. Sign up for Sarah’s…

What does it really take to build a business that thrives - not just financially, but sustainably? In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with Verne Harnish, founder of Entrepreneurs' Organization and bestselling author of Scaling Up. After decades spent advising some of the world's fastest-growing companies, Verne shares the principles that separate businesses that simply survive from those that truly flourish. But this conversation goes far beyond business strategy. Verne reflects on growing up in a family that went from wealth to hardship, the lessons he learned watching his father's entrepreneurial journey unravel, and how those experiences shaped his life's work. Together, Sarah and Verne explore leadership, resilience, curiosity, personal growth, and why success is built just as much from who you become as what you achieve. Whether you're leading a business, building a career, or simply trying to create a more meaningful life, this conversation offers practical wisdom that…

Is there something you've been meaning to say? In this episode of Sarah's Thoughts, Sarah explores the words we carry but never speak. The "I love you" we assume they already know. The thank you we never quite get around to saying. The apology, the boundary, or the truth we've been holding onto while waiting for the perfect moment. Sarah reflects on the hidden cost of silence and why the conversations we avoid often stay with us the longest. Because while speaking up can feel uncomfortable, carrying important words unsaid can be even harder. You'll learn: • Why unspoken words can turn into regret, resentment or distance • The emotional cost of avoiding difficult conversations • How honesty can create healing, connection and peace This episode is a gentle reminder to stop waiting for the perfect moment and say the things that matter most—before they become the things you wish you'd said. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here. To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or…

What if the life you're searching for isn't something you find... but something you discover? Today's episode will change how you think about purpose, success and what it actually means to build a meaningful life. Jim Collins is one of the most respected business thinkers in the world, the author of Good to Great, a book that has shaped how millions of leaders think about success. But today's conversation is not about business. It is about something every single person will face at some point in their life. Jim shares the personal experiences and years of research behind his latest work, challenging the idea that we each have just one purpose to find. In this episode, you'll learn: · Why purpose isn't one perfect calling, but many possibilities already inside you · How to know when you're truly "in frame," doing work that energises rather than drains you · Why reinvention and curiosity matter more, not less, as you move through different stages of life · Why the greatest reward isn't achievement, but the…

What if you're living in the good old days right now and don't even know it? In this reflective episode, Sarah explores the quiet moments that often become the memories we miss most. The family dinners, the childhood home, the ordinary routines that feel insignificant at the time but later become priceless. You'll learn: • Why we rarely recognise life's most precious moments while we're living them • How nostalgia can teach us what truly matters • The importance of appreciating the people and places we still have today A beautiful reminder to slow down, pay attention and cherish the moments that may one day become the memories you treasure most. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here. To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or here. Watch A Life of Greatness Episodes On Youtube here. Sign up for Sarah’s newsletter (Greatness Guide) here. Purchase Sarah's Meditations here. Instagram: @sarahgrynberg Website: https://sarahgrynberg.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/sarahgrynberg…

What happens when the career you built your whole life around disappears overnight? Jase Hawkins has been one of Australia's most recognisable breakfast radio voices for decades. But behind the laughter was a story most people never saw, including the moment he was told everything would be fine, right before his number one show was axed. In this episode, Jase opens up about losing both his parents, the grief that still catches him off guard, the IVF journey he and his wife went through, and raising a son with autism. You'll learn: How grief can become one of life's greatest teachers What raising a child with autism taught Jase about patience and unconditional love Why success means very little without the right people around you. A final thought: A meaningful life isn't built through achievements or recognition. It's built through relationships and showing up for the people you love. Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here. To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or here.…

Have you ever wondered why you’ve done all the inner work… but still feel stuck in the same patterns, emotions, or version of yourself? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg explores the powerful role environment plays in healing, growth, and self-worth. She reflects on how the spaces we live in, the relationships we stay in, and the people we surround ourselves with quietly shape the way we see ourselves, often reinforcing wounds we are actively trying to heal. Sarah unpacks why healing is not only about mindset or self-awareness, but also about the conditions we continue exposing ourselves to every day. She explores the emotional exhaustion of trying to grow in environments that require you to shrink, disappear, or abandon parts of yourself in order to survive. You’ll learn: Why your environment has a profound impact on your ability to heal and grow How certain relationships and spaces can reinforce old emotional wounds The important difference between doing inner work and changing the…

What happens when you step into one of the most powerful leadership roles in Australian sport during the most turbulent period in your club's history? In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with Hawthorn Football Club President Andy Gowers. A former AFL premiership player, businessman and succession planning expert, Andy opens up about leadership under pressure, navigating the Hawthorn First Nations investigation, mental resilience, journaling, family, football and the lessons that shaped him both on and off the field. Andy shares the personal toll of leading through crisis, the sleepless nights, the strategies he used to stay grounded, and why helping others build remarkable lives has become his purpose. In this episode, you will learn: • How journaling helped Andy navigate some of the hardest moments of his life • What leadership really looks like during a public crisis • Why elite sport can teach lessons that last a lifetime • The importance of putting the team before yourself •…

Have you ever stopped to consider that your children are not meant to become who you imagined… but who they already are? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg reflects on the timeless wisdom of Khalil Gibran’s writing on parenthood and why his words continue to resonate so deeply more than a century later. She explores the emotional tension between loving our children fiercely while also learning to release control over who they become. Sarah unpacks the powerful idea that children do not belong to us, but come through us, each carrying their own thoughts, identity, purpose, and path. She reflects on how easily love can become projection, expectation, or protection, and why true parenting asks us to remain curious about our children instead of trying to shape them into versions that feel safer or more familiar to us. You’ll learn: Why parenting is about guiding, not controlling How expectations can quietly interfere with a child’s sense of self The deeper meaning behind Khalil Gibran’s metaphor…

Matt Preston is one of Australia's most recognisable television personalities and the face of MasterChef Australia for over a decade. This week he sits down with Sarah Grynberg on A Life of Greatness for one of the most honest conversations he has ever had. Matt opens up about what fame really feels like from the inside, the guilt of missing family moments that matter while building a career, and why he ultimately walked away from one of the biggest shows in Australian television history. He also talks about losing his brother, watching a parent move through dementia, and the friendships and moments that ended up meaning more than any of the success. This is not the Matt Preston you think you know. In this episode you will learn: What really happened behind the scenes of MasterChef Australia Why fame can quietly distort who you are if you stop paying attention The moment with his daughter that made him rethink everything How losing his brother shaped the direction of his life What dementia and aging parents…

Have you ever wondered why you keep ending up in the same kind of relationship, even when the person looks completely different? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg explores the hidden emotional patterns that shape who we choose, why certain relationships feel instantly magnetic, and how our nervous systems often mistake familiarity for love. She reflects on the unconscious ways childhood experiences and emotional conditioning influence attraction, connection, and the cycles we continue repeating without realising it. Sarah unpacks the difference between healthy love and familiar dysfunction, and why so many people unknowingly recreate emotional dynamics that feel “safe” simply because they recognise them. She also explores how awareness becomes the first real step toward changing the patterns that no longer serve us. You’ll learn: Why familiar relationship dynamics can feel more attractive than healthy ones How childhood emotional experiences shape the partners we choose The mindset shift…

Have you ever looked like you had everything, while secretly falling apart inside? Anthony Callea became a household name almost overnight after Australian Idol, but behind the success was a young man battling fear, pressure, loneliness and the overwhelming reality of becoming a public figure before truly knowing himself. In this deeply honest conversation, Anthony opens up about the morning he left a note for his parents telling them he was gay, the panic attack that nearly stopped him from auditioning for Australian Idol, and the terrifying moment he woke up in hospital during the competition after pushing himself beyond exhaustion. He also reflects on the darker side of fame, feeling like a “product,” the loneliness that followed success, and the journey of finally learning that fear is often just a story we tell ourselves. In this episode, you will learn: Why Anthony almost didn’t audition for Australian Idol The emotional moment he came out to his parents What really happened behind the scenes during…

Have you ever shared good news with someone… only to leave the conversation feeling strangely deflated? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg explores the uncomfortable truth that not everyone in your life will genuinely celebrate your success. She reflects on the subtle ways people minimise, dismiss, or quietly resent the growth of others, and why this reaction often says far more about their inner world than it does about your achievements. Sarah unpacks the psychology behind Tall Poppy Syndrome, particularly within Australian culture, and why some people struggle when someone around them begins to rise, evolve, or openly succeed. She also speaks to the importance of recognising the difference between people who are inspired by your growth and those who feel threatened by it. You’ll learn: Why some people struggle to genuinely celebrate the success of others How insecurity and comparison can shape people’s reactions to your growth Why protecting your wins and choosing the right people to…

In this groundbreaking conversation, Professor of Genetics and longevity scientist, Dr. David Sinclair, A.O., Ph.D., joins Sarah Grynberg to unpack the future of human aging, the science of longevity, and how we live today impacts how we age tomorrow. From reversing blindness in mice to exploring treatments that could one day delay menopause and extend healthy human life, this episode will completely change the way you think about your body, your health, and your future. But beyond the science, this is also a deeply human conversation about purpose, suffering, love, family, and what it truly means to live a great life. In this episode, you will learn: Why aging may actually be reversible The daily habits accelerating aging in your body right now How stress, loneliness, and cortisol could impact longevity The real science behind supplements like NMN, resveratrol, and NAD boosters Why exercise, sleep, and relationships matter more than you think What Dr. Sinclair believes is coming in the next 10 years of…

Have you ever stayed in something far longer than you should have, simply because you’d already invested so much into it? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg shares one surprising pattern she has noticed among some of the most successful people she has ever interviewed. They know how to quit quickly. Not out of fear, laziness, or failure, but from a deep understanding that holding onto the wrong thing can quietly drain your energy, time, and potential. Sarah explores the psychology behind why so many of us struggle to walk away, unpacking the concept of the sunk cost fallacy and the emotional weight of feeling like quitting means giving up. She reflects on the ways we stay too long in jobs, friendships, relationships, and ideas that no longer align, simply because we’ve already invested so much into them. You’ll learn: Why successful people are selective about where they invest their energy How the sunk cost fallacy keeps people stuck in situations that no longer serve them Why letting go of…

What happens when global success still leaves you questioning your happiness? In this powerful conversation, rock star Richard Marx joins Sarah Grynberg to open up about fame, rejection, mindset, fatherhood and the emotional highs and lows of life in the spotlight. Richard shares the devastating moment legendary producer David Foster told him he would never make it as a singer, the incredible act of kindness from Lionel Richie that changed his life forever, and the mindset shifts that helped him navigate anxiety, negativity and self-doubt. He also reflects on his friendships with Olivia Newton-John and Michael Bolton, the hidden emotional crash after performing to thousands of people, and the bittersweet realisation that one day your children stop calling you “Daddy” and you never even notice when it happened. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Richard Marx handled years of rejection The hidden emotional cost of fame and success Why gratitude can change your mindset completely The parenting realisation that…

What if you’re not stuck, you’re just becoming? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg reflects on a powerful, Rumi-inspired idea she first heard through her conversation with Serena Dyer, that from the moment we’re born, it’s as though a ladder is placed before us, and whether we realise it or not, we are always climbing. She explores how every stage of life, the uncertain ones, the painful ones, the ones that feel like nothing is changing, are not signs of being lost, but evidence of growth. Because what feels like standing still… is often the very thing moving you forward. You’ll learn: Why every stage of life serves a purpose, even the seasons that feel uncertain How Rumi’s ladder metaphor can change the way you view growth and struggle The comforting reminder that you are never truly stuck or falling behind This episode is a gentle invitation to trust where you are, even if it doesn’t yet make sense. To remember that transformation often happens quietly, beneath the surface, long before we…

Are you waking up in the middle of the night and unable to fall back asleep… no matter how tired you are? In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with renowned sleep expert and sleep psychologist Dr Michael Breus to unpack the science, psychology, and hidden habits that are quietly destroying your sleep. From anxiety and racing thoughts to hormones, heart rate, and even your genetics, this conversation reveals why so many of us struggle to get quality rest… and what we can actually do about it. Dr Breus shares practical, science-backed tools to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and finally wake up feeling restored. This is not about rigid rules or unrealistic routines… it’s about understanding your body and working with it. Because when you improve your sleep… you improve your entire life. You’ll learn: Why anxiety is the #1 reason you can’t sleep The exact reason you wake up in the middle of the night How to lower your heart rate to fall asleep faster The truth about…

Do you ever feel a quiet ache when you think about the life you imagined for yourself… and where you are now? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg explores the emotional gap between expectation and reality, the space between who we thought we would become and who we actually are. She gently unpacks the pressure of timelines we never consciously chose, and the weight of comparing ourselves to a version of life that may have never truly belonged to us. This episode is a compassionate reflection on growth, change, and the courage it takes to become someone different to who you once imagined. You’ll learn: Why the “timeline” you’re measuring yourself against may not be your own How to reframe the feeling of being behind into something more truthful Why change and uncertainty are signs of growth, not failure This is a powerful reminder that you are not behind, not too late, and not less than the person you once hoped to be. Because that ache you feel isn’t failure… it’s longing. And longing means…

What if everything you’ve been searching for… is already within you? In this powerful episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with musician, producer and spiritual guide East Forest to explore the intersection of music, psychedelics, consciousness and healing. From experiencing deep depression and feeling lost, to finding what he loved and completely turning his life around, East Forest shares the moment that shifted everything, and how it led him to a life of purpose, creativity and connection. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How he moved through depression and reconnected with meaning • Why so many people feel disconnected and what they’re really searching for • The role of music and sound in healing and emotional release • How psychedelics, when used intentionally, can shift perspective and awareness • What ceremony actually means and why it matters • How to feel more grounded and connected in your own life This is a conversation that goes beyond trends and into something much deeper,…

Are you quietly worried about what AI means for your future… even if you’re not saying it out loud? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg explores the low level anxiety so many people are carrying right now as the world rapidly changes through artificial intelligence. From job security to identity and purpose, she unpacks the fear that many are feeling but few are openly talking about. She offers a grounded and reassuring perspective, reminding us that every generation has faced moments of uncertainty and transformation, and that what has always set people apart is not what they can do better than machines, but what they bring as humans. You’ll learn: Why feeling uncertain about AI and the future is completely normal What truly sets humans apart in an increasingly automated world Why your individuality, empathy, and lived experience matter more than ever This is a powerful reminder that while technology will continue to evolve, the qualities that make you human are the very things the world…

What happens when you achieve everything you set out to… and it still doesn’t feel like enough? In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with former AFL star, media personality, and podcast host Luke Darcy to explore the reality behind success, identity, and fulfilment. From the outside, Luke Darcy had it all, AFL success with the Western Bulldogs and a high profile media career. But behind it came pressure, expectation, and the realisation that achievement alone does not equal fulfilment. In this honest conversation, Luke shares the moment he began to question success, stepping away from the spotlight, and how mindfulness, family and purpose reshaped his life. He also opens up about parenting, the pressure in kids sport, and allowing kids identity to evolve beyond performance. In this episode, you will learn: Why success without fulfilment can feel empty How to navigate identity after high performance or public life The role of mindfulness and meditation in creating clarity and…

Do you ever feel like you still love someone… but you don’t really like them anymore? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg explores one of the most unspoken and quietly uncomfortable experiences we go through, outgrowing friendships that once meant everything to us. Without conflict, without betrayal, just a slow and steady distance that’s hard to explain and even harder to accept. She unpacks the emotional weight of staying in relationships out of history, loyalty, or guilt, and why we often keep friendships on “life support” long after they’ve naturally run their course. This episode offers a compassionate perspective on growth, change, and the reality that not all relationships are meant to last forever. You’ll learn: Why outgrowing friendships is a natural and human part of life How to release guilt when relationships no longer feel aligned Why history alone isn’t a reason to stay connected This is a powerful reminder that some people are meant to walk with us for a lifetime, and others…

What does it take to build one of the most successful retail empires in Australia… and sustain it for decades? In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with Mario Tascone, Deputy CEO of Retail at Chemist Warehouse, a business that disrupted an entire industry and grew into a global powerhouse with over 600 stores worldwide. From humble beginnings working in a single pharmacy to helping lead one of the country’s most recognisable brands, Mario shares the mindset, risks, and relentless work ethic behind the journey. This conversation goes far beyond business. Mario opens up about the influence of his immigrant parents, the discipline that shaped his success, and the personal transformation that saw him completely change his health, lose over 25 kilos, and run the world’s biggest marathons. He reveals why discomfort is the key to growth, why consistency beats talent, and how never giving up has been the foundation of everything he’s built. In this episode, you will learn: Why Chemist…

Have you ever wondered if the things that didn’t work out… were actually protecting you? In this episode of Sarah’s Thoughts, Sarah Grynberg explores the quiet shift from seeing disappointment as loss to understanding it as something that may not have truly aligned. She reflects on the way we often fall in love with the idea of something, a job, a relationship, an opportunity, and how that imagined version can feel so real that losing it feels like losing something certain. Sarah unpacks why what we grieve is often the story we created, not the full reality we couldn’t yet see. She explores the difference between something that fits and something that requires constant effort to hold together, and how with time, clarity reveals what was once hidden beneath hope and expectation. You’ll learn: Why we attach to the idea of something before fully understanding its reality How to recognise the difference between alignment and forcing something to work A powerful reframe that shifts disappointment into clarity and…