Kelsey Waghorn's life changed forever when she, along with so many others, was caught up in the horrific Whakaari White Island eruption off the east coast of New Zealand in 2019. Kelsey, just 25 at the time, was working as a tour guide. On what should have been a regular, routine day, instead she ended up in an induced coma and sustained full thickness burns to 45% of her body. She speaks to Ant about the toll this had on her physical and mental health, her journey with PTSD and the loss of a ve...
May 07, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 32
December 10th 2015 was a day that changed everything for champion surfer, Owen Wright. He fought for his life and faced extensive brain trauma, following a severe wipeout at Pipeline in Hawaii. The journey back to the ocean, was a difficult one. In this inspiring conversation, Owen reflects on that fateful day, and shares the mindset tools that helped aid his recovery. He's one of the country's best surfers - and through resilience and determination, made one incredible comeback. LINKS Learn mor...
Apr 30, 2024•51 min•Season 1Ep. 31
Michael Crossland has been a fighter since birth. He defied the odds of surviving Neuroblastoma - a rare life-threatening cancer, and was the sole survivor of a cancer drug trial. He speaks to Ant about his lifetime of challenges and lessons. When the odds are stacked against him, time after time - Michael defies those odds. And, he's on a journey to inspire others along the way. LINKS Learn more about Michael Crossland at michaelcrossland.com Follow Michael on Instagram @michaelcrossland Follow...
Apr 23, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 30
For South Australian anaesthetist Richard 'Harry' Harris, cave diving was just a hobby and a passion. After starting in the mid 80s, his love of exploration and adventure took him on many journeys, exploring caves and shipwrecks across the world. But in 2018, the unique combination of Harry's professional and person lives led to the rescue of 12 boys and their coach from the Tham Luang cave in Northern Thailand. He's reluctant to be called a hero - but that's exactly what he is. It was one of th...
Apr 16, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 29
Comedian and former SAS Australia star, Merrick Watts, joins Ant for an insightful conversation this week. He reflects on his rise to radio stardom, the fracture of beloved duo Merrick and Rosso, and the 'epoch' moment that forced him to change the course of his life. Ant and Merrick reunite in the same Nova 96.9 studio that Merrick once broadcasted in each morning. A vastly different setting from their previous meeting as Staff and Number 10. LINKS Follow Merrick Watts on Instagram @merrickwatt...
Apr 09, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 28
"Recognise your calling - all you have to do is answer it. Every day, you have to answer that call to your own greatness". Phil Heath is the epitome of discipline and strength. Physically - through winning Mr Olympia seven times, and mentally - through overcoming battles with mental ill-health. Following the release of his new documentary Breaking Olympia: The Phil Heath Story , he spoke to Ant about his life lessons, toughest challenges, and what the mindset of a champion looks like. Trigger wa...
Apr 02, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 27
Ever wondered how you build a business from scratch? Seven years ago Brittney Saunders started a business in her garage. Today it’s grown to an 8-figure empire with almost 60 employees, four retail shops and a booming online store. Big Business is a brand new podcast from Nova Podcasts where she unpacks exactly how she did it. Each week, Brittney will take you behind the scenes of the day to day of running a business and teach you all the lessons she wishes she’d known from the start. She'll als...
Mar 31, 2024•1 min
No oxygen, no goggles, 122m beneath the surface. This, is Arnaud Jerald's happy place. The French Freediver may just be 28 years old, but he can include 'World Record Holder' on his resume. He speaks to Ant today about his meteoric career, what it takes to push yourself to those depths, and the art of controlling your emotions. LINKS Learn more about Arnaud Jerald on his website arnaudjerald.com Follow Ant on Instagram , X , and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follo...
Mar 26, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 26
In the midst of the uncharted Amazon, after losing his three companions, Yossi Ghinsberg was tested to the extreme. For three harrowing weeks he battled to survive against all odds, and in the process, discovered his life purpose. He's the author of the international best-seller ‘Jungle’, and the inspiring story has been made into a full-length feature film starring Daniel Radcliffe. Yossi takes Ant into his mindset during those three weeks - and shares the 'miracle' that saved his life. LINKS F...
Mar 19, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 25
"Some of us choose to become victims, while others choose to become victors". Layne Beachley's path to success hasn't been an easy one. The seven-time world surfing legend embraced setbacks and used them to propel her growth - including adoption, mental illness and life-threatening injuries. Layne opens up to Ant about her life lessons, loss and inspirational legacy. LINKS Find out more about The Awake Academy at awakeacademy.com.au Follow Layne Beachley on Instagram @laynebeachley Follow Ant on...
Mar 12, 2024•51 min•Season 1Ep. 24
Jeremy Evans is lucky to be alive. In August 2017, he survived a savage three-round mauling from a Grizzly Bear. He suffered severe injuries, and was faced with a 20km solo journey back to safety. Thanks to his resilience, setting 'micro goals' and Baby Shark , Jeremy shares his story with Ant today. In this episode, there is a mention of suicide. If this topic is triggering for you, please seek help by visiting Lifeline's website at https://www.lifeline.org.au/ or by calling 13 11 14. LINKS Jer...
Mar 05, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 23
If anyone's living life to the fullest, it's Pam Reed. Pam was the first female to be the overall winner of one of the toughest races in the world - Badwater. She won twice - and was the first person to run over 300 miles without sleeping in 72 hours. In this episode, Pam speaks to Ant about her ability to push through mental and physical blocks, her battles with anorexia and love of getting the most out of every day. CW: This episode contains discussions of eating disorders. If you think you ne...
Feb 27, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 22
Mike Wolo has a miraculous survival story. In a freak accident while helping out a mate, he was crushed by 10 000lbs of granite. His head was less than 3 inches wide, and he died for six minutes. Thanks to his quick-thinking best friends, he was brought back to life. But still, his chance of survival was bleak and just 2%. In this incredible story of resilience, friendship and perseverance, Mike proves that despite a long recovery road - you can do anything you put your mind to. LINKS Read more ...
Feb 20, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 21
In this week's episode, Ant crowns our guest as officially being 'The most hardcore woman on the planet'. A professional Ironwoman at just 17, Bonnie Hancock has competed in 9 Nutri-Grain Ironwoman Series, representing Australia. Bonnie recently became the fastest person to paddle a surf ski 12,700 km around the Australian coastline. Today, she takes us into her mind during that epic journey - sharing the highs, lows, and how she kept going. LINKS Follow Bonnie Hancock on Instagram here Learn mo...
Feb 13, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 20
Tia-Clair Toomey Orr is one inspiring woman. She's won the CrossFit Games every year from 2017-2022, was a Rio 2016 Olympan and is a Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist. She's also a gym-owner, author - and most recently, Mum. In this episode, Tia-Clair and Ant discuss conquering goals, breaking down barriers, and what it takes to become #1. LINKS Follow Tia-Clair Toomey Orr here Learn more about Tia's new book The Heart Is The Strongest Muscle here Follow Ant on Instagram , X , and Facebook Learn ...
Feb 06, 2024•47 min•Season 1Ep. 19
Safiyya Vorajee is the epitome of strength. This inspiring woman has had to endure unimaginable heartbreak and loss, and is now using her pain and her voice to help others. In this powerful conversation, Safiyya opens up about her "second life". She talks about how her childhood with domestic violence shaped her, the power of love and purpose, and how her beautiful daugher, Azaylia, is a light in heaven, while she is a light on earth. Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions of domesti...
Jan 30, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 18
Blake Johnston is one unstoppable force. In March 2023, Blakey completed an astonishing goal - breaking the world record of surfing for over 40 hours. Blakey is more than just a legendary surfer - he's a mental health advocate, Director of Cronulla Surfing Academy and a key note speaker. His mission and his purpose stem from the hardest of heartbreaks - the loss of his father after he'd just turned 30. CW: This episode contains discussions of suicide. If this episode raises any issues for you, h...
Jan 23, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 17
This episode is a special one. Ant is joined by fellow SAS royalty and his good friend, Ollie Ollerton. Ollie's career in the military began at the age of 18 when he joined the Royal Marine Commando's. Throughout his career, he's harnessed the power of the mind and is passionate about the power of finding your purpose. Today, he's the CEO of BREAK-POINT, and joins Ant for an inspirational and thought-provoking conversation. CW: This episode contains discussions of suicide. If this episode raises...
Jan 16, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 16
In this episode, you'll hear from two men who have faced two incredibly tough battles. Pat Farmer ran from the North to the South Pole, and Jason McCartney survived the Bali Bombings. Both situations required unparalleled mental and physical strength - and they joined Ant to share their toughest moments. CW: This episode contains discussions of suicide. If this episode raises any issues for you, help is available through Lifeline on 13 11 14 or via their website lifeline.org.au. LINKS Listen to ...
Jan 09, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 15
In this special 'best of' episode, we hear from three people who have beaten the odds and survived the unthinkable - Todd Russell, Paul de Gelder and Jack Beaumont. LINKS Listen to Todd Russell's episode in full here Listen to Paul de Gelder's episode in full here Listen to Jack Beaumont's episode in full here Follow Ant on Instagram , X , and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/ Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the sc...
Jan 02, 2024•12 min•Season 1Ep. 14
We've heard some incredible stories in 2023 from an array of guests. Three guests in particular gave us a front row seat into a lifechanging moment. In this episode, you'll hear from Gary Jubelin, Chris Lemons and Sean Turnell. LINKS Listen to Gary Jubelin's episode in full here Listen to Chris Lemons' episode in full here Listen to Sean Turnell's episode in full here Follow Ant on Instagram , X , and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/ Follow Nova Podcasts...
Dec 26, 2023•17 min•Season 1Ep. 13
In this special 'best of' episode, we take a look back on three powerful moments from 2023 - with Jelena Dokic, Jackson Warne and Jim Davidson. Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence. I f you think you need immediate assistance, call 000. If you would like to speak to someone about your situation, you may wish to contact one of the following services. Lifeline – Call 13 11 14, or visit www.lifeline.org.au . 1800RESPECT – Call 1800 737 732, or visit www.1800respec...
Dec 19, 2023•12 min•Season 1Ep. 12
In this episode, Ant speaks to Australian Rules footballer and survivor of the 2002 Bali terrorist attack, Jason McCartney. Jason shares what it was like being involved in the tragedy, his long road of recovery, and how his positive mindset helped to get him through. LINKS Find our more about Jason McCartney's inspirational speaking here After Bali is available here Want to see Ant live on stage? Click here for his current tour dates. Follow Ant on Instagram , X , and Facebook Learn more about A...
Dec 12, 2023•49 min•Season 1Ep. 11
Jim Davidson and Mike Price, two friends and experienced climbing partners, summited Mount Rainier on June 21, 1992. As they descended, a hidden snowbridge collapsed beneath Jim’s feet and dropped him into a large glacial crevasse. Connected to Jim by the climbing rope, Mike tried to stop the fall but couldn’t. In a heartbreaking conversation, Jim shares this painful memory with Ant - and how loss, resilience and the strength to survive has shaped not only that fateful day, but the rest of his l...
Dec 05, 2023•49 min•Season 1Ep. 10
'Improvise... Adapt... Overcome' - these three words always resonated with Paul de Gelder, but they took on a whole new meaning after he was attacked by a shark in 2009. Paul was working as an elite Navy clearance diver, and the incident caused him to lose two limbs. In this episode, Paul and Ant reflect on that day and what saved his life, his mental health in recovery and how humour, resilience and a few good mates can get you through anything. Content warning: This episode contains discussion...
Nov 28, 2023•43 min•Season 1Ep. 9
Jack Beaumont has one incredible story. He was a fighter pilot for the French air force, when an injury during dogfight training changed his life forever. Jack was then recruited by French intelligence to work for the DGSE - balancing family life with working undercover in clandestine foreign operations. In this episode, Jack takes us into the mindset of a spy. He delves into the moment where he felt he'd turned into a monster - and what ultimately made him walk away. Content warning: This episo...
Nov 21, 2023•51 min•Season 1Ep. 8
February 6th, 2021 is the day that Sean Turnell's world got flipped upside down. After receiving an anonymous tip off that military leadership in Myanmar were coming for him, Sean went to check out of his hotel, and was arrested. The 58 year old Economist from Australia would go on to spend 650 days behind bars. Sean shares the horrors of that period with Ant - how he survived Yangon's notorious Insein Prison, what it was like to face spy charges and his bizarre story of release. LINKS Find out ...
Nov 14, 2023•45 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Jelena Dokic is the epitome of strength. At just 16 years old and ranked World #129, Jelena pulled off a career-defining victory against then-World #1, Martina Hingis. At a time where her sporting career was on an incredible trajectory, behind closed doors she was facing the toughest challenge of her life - surviving harrowing domestic abuse from her father. In a powerful and moving conversation, Jelena opens up to Ant about overcoming adversity, poverty and violence to rise to the top. Trigger ...
Nov 07, 2023•57 min•Season 1Ep. 6
The 4th of March 2022 is a day that Jackson Warne will never forget. His father, legendary Aussie cricketer - Shane Warne, passed away suddenly whilst holidaying in Thailand. At just 22 years old, Jackson was forced to grieve with the world watching. Today, for the first time in 18 months - Jackson opens up. He shares with Ant the impact that his 'bestest mate' had on him, takes us inside the moment he received the devastating call, and describes some of the powerful messages he's had from his D...
Oct 31, 2023•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 5
On one September night in 2012, Deep Sea Saturation Diver Chris Lemons fought for his life. At 2am, 300 feet beneath the North Sea, Chris was stranded in total darkness. In a remarkable story of survival, best known from Netflix's Last Breath documentary, Chris takes Ant inside those terrifying moments, and shares how teamwork, resilience and remaining calm were crucial to keeping him alive. LINKS Learn more about Chris Lemons and his public speaking on his website https://www.chrislemons.co.uk/...
Oct 24, 2023•44 min•Season 1Ep. 4
