The Courage to Continue with Nina Sutton

In this episode of The Courage to Continue, Jo Oliveri sits down for a deeply moving conversation about grief, resilience, and finding joy after unimaginable loss. Jo shares the heartbreaking story of losing her eldest son, Josh, in a tragic accident just days after launching her business. Together, Nina and Jo reflect on the realities of profound grief, the complexities of healing, and the deeply personal journey of learning to carry loss while continuing to live with purpose. The conversation explores the myths surrounding grief, the role of faith and spirituality in healing, and how tragedy can shape us into more compassionate leaders, parents, and people. Jo also shares the powerful mindset and practical strategies that have helped her choose resilience and create a life centred around hope, joy, and meaning. This is a heartfelt and compassionate episode about love, loss, resilience, and the courage to continue even when life feels impossible. It serves as a reminder that grief has no timeline, healing looks different for everyone, and even in our darkest moments, it is possible to find light again. Please note that this week's episode contains discussions around child loss, grief, trauma, suicidal thoughts, death, and mental health. Please listen with care. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Courage to Continue , Nina sits down with Ellen Bathgate for a deeply moving conversation about resilience, courage, and rebuilding life after unimaginable adversity. Ellen shares her journey from building a successful real estate social media business to navigating the devastating accident that changed her family's life forever. She opens up about her husband's extraordinary recovery, the emotional toll of trauma, and the lessons she learned about adapting when life takes an unexpected turn. Together, they explore why courage is often something we only recognise in hindsight, how mindset can shape recovery, and the importance of asking yourself "what now?" instead of "why me?". Ellen also shares practical insights on preparing for the unexpected, from legal planning and wills to building businesses that can withstand life's biggest challenges. This episode is a powerful reminder that resilience isn't about avoiding hardship—it's about learning to move forward, one step at a time, even when the path ahead looks completely different than you imagined Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Courage to Continue, Nina is joined by her ten-year-old niece, Frankie, for a heartfelt conversation about courage through the eyes of a child. Frankie shares her experiences navigating primary school, dealing with bullying, and finding the confidence to keep showing up even during difficult times. Together, they discuss the importance of being yourself, leaning on supportive friends and family, and why kindness can make all the difference in a young person's life. The conversation also explores Frankie's love of basketball and how sport has helped build her confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging. She also shares the simple strategies that help her through challenging moments, including talking to trusted people, spending time with her pets, listening to music, practicing self-care, and allowing herself to feel her emotions. This episode is a beautiful reminder that courage isn't about never being afraid—it's about continuing to show up, being kind, and believing in yourself, even when things feel hard. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Courage to Continue, Ella Geaney shares a powerful conversation about leadership, resilience, and the life-changing lessons that can emerge from adversity. Ella shares her journey as a female business owner in a traditionally male-dominated industry, the challenges of building and leading a team of more than sixty people, and the importance of creating a workplace culture built on trust, flexibility, and genuine care for people. The conversation explores burnout, the pressures of business ownership, the value of self-care, and why success should never come at the expense of family and wellbeing. Ella also opens up about her melanoma diagnosis, the major surgery that followed, and the profound perspective shift that came from stepping away from her business to focus on her health. Together, Nina and Ella discuss the importance of listening to your body, asking for help, being present for life's important moments, and creating a business that can thrive without sacrificing yourself in the process. Please note this week's episode contains discussions around cancer, melanoma, surgery, mental health, depression, burnout, and serious health challenges. Please listen with care. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Courage to Continue, Nina sits down with Jet Xavier for a deeply honest conversation about resilience, recovery, and the power of choosing a different path. Jet shares the realities of substance addiction, the lasting impact of trauma, the challenges of self-forgiveness, and the courage required to rebuild a life after adversity. The conversation also dives into mental health in the real estate industry, the importance of connection and support, and Jet's ongoing work advocating for men's wellbeing. This is a powerful and inspiring episode about second chances, personal responsibility, vulnerability, and finding hope even in life's darkest moments. It serves as a reminder that no matter how difficult things may feel, support is available, healing is possible, and your story is not over. Please note this week's episode contains discussions around drug addiction, overdose, suicide, grief, trauma, mental health challenges, incarceration, and substance abuse. Please listen with care. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Courage to Continue, Karen McStay opens up about anticipatory grief, the realities of living alongside a terminal dementia diagnosis, and the profound challenges of navigating life as both a daughter and primary carer. Karen shares the story of her beloved mum, Fiona, who was diagnosed with frontal temporal dementia at just 52 years old. Together, Nina and Karen explore the hidden impact of dementia on families and the emotional toll of watching someone you love gradually change. Karen also speaks candidly about loneliness, resilience, the importance of support, and how caring for a loved one can reshape every aspect of life. This is a powerful conversation about love, grief, courage, and the unwavering bond between a mother and daughter. It serves as an important reminder to check in on those carrying invisible burdens and to extend compassion to the carers who often need it most. Please note this week's episode contains discussions around dementia, terminal illness, caregiving, family estrangement, and end-of-life experiences, so please listen with care. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Courage to Continue, Alicia Lecky shares a heartfelt conversation about grief, resilience, and the experiences that have shaped her life both personally and professionally. Alicia opens up about losing her lifelong best friend to breast cancer, caring for her mother after a devastating accident, and ultimately facing the profound loss of the woman who raised her. She delves into the realities of grief, the guilt and unanswered questions that often accompany loss, and how difficult experiences can deepen our compassion for others. We explore how grief changes us and teaches us to carry those we love forward. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, connection, and finding hope through life's hardest moments. Please note this week's episode contains discussions around death, grief, serious illness, and the passing of loved ones, so please listen with care. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Courage to Continue , Caterina Italiano shares her deeply personal journey through grief after losing both her father to dementia and her sister to a rare kidney illness. We talk about the heartbreaking reality of watching a family of four become two, and how loss can continue to shape every chapter of life long after the initial goodbye. As Caterina prepares for her upcoming wedding, we explore the emotions that come with stepping into one of life’s most beautiful milestones while carrying the weight of missing half of the people she always imagined would be standing beside her. We talk about love, grief, resilience, and the meaningful ways she is choosing to honour both her father and sister on such a special day. This is a powerful conversation about navigating unimaginable loss, carrying those we love with us, and finding the courage to continue even when life looks very different to the one we had planned. Please note this week's episode contains discussions around death and passing of loved ones, so please listen with care. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Courage to Continue, Nina sits down with David Cutler from LJ Hooker Corporate for a deeply personal and powerful conversation. David shares the story of losing his dad at a pivotal age, after his father took his own life, and reflects on what it was like navigating grief so young. Together, they explore the impact this loss had on his family, particularly his mum, and how those early experiences shaped David into the man he is today, both as a father and as a leader. This conversation is honest, raw, and incredibly moving. It speaks to the lasting influence of loss, the resilience we build through life’s hardest moments, and the way those experiences shape how we show up for others. What We Cover in This Episode: Losing a parent at a pivotal stage of life Navigating grief at a young age The impact of loss on family dynamics Supporting a parent through grief How early experiences shape leadership and values Fatherhood and breaking generational patterns Finding strength and meaning after loss See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Courage to Continue , Nina sits down with Tameka Smith to explore the journey of personal growth, business ownership, and the transformation that happens along the way. From self-described “brat” to confident business owner, Tameka shares what it really takes to step into leadership, build a successful business, and ultimately make the decision to sell. This conversation is honest, reflective, and filled with lessons for anyone navigating growth in their career, business, or personal life. In this episode, we cover: The mindset shift from employee to business owner Learning accountability and stepping into leadership The realities of growing and scaling a business The emotional side of selling a business Letting go of identity and stepping into what’s next Key Takeaway: Growth isn’t always comfortable, but it’s necessary. The person you become in the process is often the greatest reward. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode, I sit down with David the Medium to explore what it truly takes to step into your purpose and share your gift with the world. David opens up about his journey of self-acceptance, the challenges of embracing a path that others may not always understand, and the courage required to stand confidently in who you are. We talk about intuition, vulnerability, and the moments that push us to either hide… or rise. This conversation goes beyond what David does. It’s about why he does it, and the responsibility that comes with using your voice, your story, and your abilities to help others. If you’ve ever felt the pull to do something bigger, but held yourself back out of fear or doubt, this episode will resonate deeply. A powerful reminder that your gift is not something to hide… it’s something to honour. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2012, Simone O’Brien survived a horrific domestic violence attack that left her with permanent injuries and a lifetime of recovery ahead. What began as emotional and psychological abuse escalated into unimaginable violence, changing her life and the lives of her children forever. In this powerful conversation, Simone shares how she turned trauma into advocacy — using her voice to raise awareness, help others recognise the red flags, and champion a future free from violence against women and children. Support & Resources: This episode discusses themes including domestic violence and trauma. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out: Lifeline (Australia): 13 11 14 1800RESPECT (Domestic Violence Support): 1800 737 732 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 If you are in immediate danger, call 000. You are not alone. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy Blackburn is a respected leader in the property management industry, but 15 years ago her life changed forever when she lost her brother in tragic circumstances. In this honest and courageous conversation, Amy shares how grief shaped her leadership, the importance of speaking up, and why seeking support is not weakness but strength. Together, we explore how vulnerability can become one of the most powerful tools we have — both in life and in leadership. This episode contains discussions around suicide and sudden loss. Please take care while listening. If this conversation brings up difficult feelings for you, support is available. In Australia: Lifeline – 13 11 14 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 Support for anxiety, depression and mental health Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 Free 24/7 phone and online counselling If you are in immediate danger, please call 000. You are not alone, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bateman’s journey to CEO didn’t begin in a boardroom — it began couch surfing, navigating instability and uncertainty about what his future would hold. In this powerful conversation, Scott shares how resilience, self-belief and relentless work ethic transformed his circumstances and shaped the leader he is today. From survival mode to strategic leadership, this episode is a reminder that your starting point does not define your destination. Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At just 25 years old — three months after giving birth to her daughter — Kellie Finlayson was diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer. After emergency surgery, intensive treatment, relapse and ongoing therapy, she has chosen to live with unwavering belief that her life is not defined by a diagnosis. In this powerful conversation, Kellie shares how mindset, motherhood and presence shape the way she continues to live fully — and why trusting your gut could save your life. DISCLAIMER: This episode discusses bowel cancer. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as blood in your stools or changes in bowel habits, please see your doctor. Early detection is critical. Purchase Kellie book Here Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three weeks before I lost my partner Simon, my friend Fiona lost her partner, Evo. In this deeply personal conversation, we share what those early days of grief really looked like — the shock, the survival mode, and the weight of continuing for our families. Fiona opens up about how she found the strength to lead, parent and keep moving forward, even when her world had stopped. DISCLAIMER: This episode contains discussions around sudden loss. Please take care while listening. If this conversation brings up difficult feelings for you, support is available. In Australia: Lifeline – 13 11 14 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 Support for anxiety, depression and mental health If you are in immediate danger, please call 000. You are not alone, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength. // Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ninapmp/ or email nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Courage to Continue.... a podcast exploring the human stories behind resilience, perspective, and purposeful leadership. Hosted by Nina Sutton, the show features honest conversations with people who have been shaped by adversity — not defined by it. These are leaders, founders, creatives, and change-makers who open up about the moments behind the titles: the uncertainty, the pressure, the missteps, and the quiet decisions that changed how they lead. This podcast isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about navigating life and leadership in real time — leading through change, staying grounded under pressure, and continuing forward when confidence wobbles or clarity feels just out of reach. This podcast is for you if… You’re a leader who doesn’t relate to “perfect” leadership narratives You want real conversations, not rehearsed advice You’re carrying responsibility and want perspective, not platitudes You’re curious about what actually builds resilience and trust You value growth, self-awareness, and leading with integrity Follow & subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube. Contact: nina@pm.partners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.