The Chronically Unbalanced’s Podcast

This week on The Chronically Unbalanced, we’re joined by Briony, whose story is one of resilience, advocacy, and navigating life through uncertainty. Diagnosed in early childhood with brittle bones disease after a series of unexplained fractures, Briony’s journey began with a long and challenging search for answers. By the age of 30, she had experienced more than 30 broken bones—each one shaping her understanding of her body, her limits, and her strength. But Briony’s story isn’t defined by her diagnosis alone. She’s also a devoted mum, raising children with their own special needs, bringing a deeply personal perspective to caregiving, advocacy, and the realities of living with chronic conditions within a family. In this episode, Briony shares what it was like growing up without clear answers, the impact of a lifelong condition, and how she balances her own health while supporting her children. Her story is honest, powerful, and a reminder of the strength it takes to keep showing up—especially on the hard days. SPECIAL SHOUTOUT to this weeks sponsor @maretlarnachstyling

In this episode of Chronically Unbalanced, we’re joined by Amy, whose husband Brad was just 34 when he was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer—only weeks after the birth of their second child. Amy takes us through their journey: the shock of diagnosis, the whirlwind of surgeries and treatments, the moments of hope, and the reality of facing life and love when the future is uncertain. She shares how Brad’s strength, humour, and devotion to his family carried them through, and how she’s navigating life after his passing at just 38. This conversation is raw, honest, and filled with love. It’s a reminder of how quickly life can change, how fiercely we can fight for the people we love, and how important it is to share these stories. Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by the wonderful Spotlock Marine We appreciate your support. Trigger Warning: This episode discusses cancer, terminal illness, and the death of a loved one. Please take care while listening.

On December 15, 2014, a regular Sydney morning turned into the unimaginable. At Martin Place’s Lindt Café, 18 people—including Louisa Hope—were held for hours in a brutal hostage situation This is the biggest and most powerful conversation we’ve ever had on The Chronically Unbalanced. On what began as an ordinary December morning in Sydney, Louisa Hope walked into a café for a cup of coffee with her mother. Within minutes, her life changed forever. She was among those taken hostage in what became one of Australia’s most shocking events. In this special two-part series, Louisa shares her story in her own words—what it was like inside, the fear and uncertainty of those hours, and the split-second moments that stayed with her forever. She also opens up about the years that followed, the challenges of recovery, and the ways she’s found strength, purpose, and even hope after unimaginable trauma. Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by Don't Shrink Me. They are a Sydney based counselling practise focusing on young people aged 12-25. Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of traumatic events including terrorism, hostage situations, gun violence, murder, serious injury, and the long-term impacts of trauma. Listener discretion is strongly advised, especially for those who may find these topics distressing. If you need support, you can contact: Lifeline — 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support) Victims of Terrorism Australia (VOTA) — 1800 999 037 Beyond Blue — 1300 22 4636 (24/7 mental health support)

This week on the podcast, we’re honoured to welcome a very special guest — Kassie.Kassie is a mum of three, a business owner, and someone with a powerful story to share. She’s joining us to talk about her journey with childhood grief after losing her younger brother at a young age — a loss that profoundly shaped her early years and the woman she is today. In this episode, Kassie opens up about what it was like to grow up with the weight of sibling loss, how it impacted her emotionally and mentally, and how those experiences continue to influence her today as a mother and entrepreneur. It’s a heartfelt, honest, and deeply important conversation about grief, healing, and the strength it takes to keep moving forward. We’re so grateful to Kassie for sharing her story with us. This weeks sponsor @rhyse_cains_building 🔔 Trigger warningThis episode may contain discussions of child loss, sibling loss, and mental health struggles, which may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening, and feel free to skip this episode if the content feels too heavy for you right now. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available: Lifeline (Australia) – 13 11 14 – 24/7 crisis support Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 – for mental health support and resources You’re not alone, and help is always available.

In this powerful and raw episode of The Chronically Unbalanced, we sit down with an incredible mum who shares the terrifying journey that began just six weeks after giving birth. What started off as mild cold-like symptoms for Emily quickly spiralled into a life-threatening condition. From being rushed to hospital, separated from her newborn and husband, to hearing the words “you need a heart transplant”—this is a story of unimaginable trauma, resilience, and survival. She walks us through the shock of an ICU admission, the rollercoaster of transplant surgery, and what it means to live with a new heart—only to face devastating rejection years later. But through it all, she shows up, keeps fighting, and is slowly finding her strength again. This is not just a medical story. It's a human one. A mother's one. And one you won't forget. Trigger Warning: This episode contains sensitive topics related to health and illness that may be difficult for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. * Special thanks to the voiceover artist for their professional work on our advertisements. You can find Jeremy at That Alter Guy. Thank you to our Sponsor for this episode. Rhyse Cains Building located in Port Stephens, NSW Australia.

After a cheeky little hiatus, The Chronically Unbalanced is back on the airwaves! We have emerged from our hidey-holes to catch you up on where we've been, what we've been up to, and why we disappeared like your ex’s emotional availability. We miss you all.... LET'S DO THIS!

This Week on The Chronically Unbalanced.. PART TWO- We’re diving into the mystical with our special guest, Jenny—a retired spiritual medium with over 20 years of experience connecting people with the unseen. From delivering messages from the other side to helping others navigate grief and uncertainty, Jenny has spent decades tuning into the world beyond what we can see. Now in retirement, she joins us to reflect on her remarkable journey: how she discovered her gift, what it’s been like to live as a medium, and the unforgettable stories she’s collected along the way. Whether you're a believer, a skeptic, or just spiritually curious, this episode is all about intuition, energy, and the mysterious ways we stay connected—even across realms. This weeks sponsor: JP Creative Photo + Film Jenny Cotman BOOKING PAGE Jenny Cotman INSTAGRAM

In this deeply moving episode, guests Kirra and Jarrod share the intimate and heartfelt story of their daughter, Sophia, who was born sleeping. With courage and grace, they open up about the profound love, grief, and healing that have shaped their journey since that day. Through their words, Kirra and Jarrod offer a raw and honest conversation about the complexities of loss, the strength found in vulnerability, and the enduring bond they share with Sophia. Their story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love. Tune in to hear a conversation that is both heartbreaking and inspiring, as Kirra and Jarrod navigate the uncharted waters of grief and find ways to honor Sophia's memory in their lives. This episode is a reminder that even in the darkest times, love continues to shine brightly. We would like to thank this weeks sponsor - Pettigrew Family Funerals

In this special bonus episode, Sarah is joined by Danny Lawrence and Sophie Drummond to discuss the launch of May50K, a nationwide initiative by MS Australia aimed at raising awareness and funds for multiple sclerosis research. Sophie, who lives with MS, shares her personal journey and insights into the challenges and triumphs of living with the condition. Danny, a dedicated supporter and an incredible friend to Sarah, talks about his commitment to the cause and his plans to run 50 kilometres in one day to raise funds. Together, they delve into the significance of May50K, the impact of community support, and how everyone can get involved to help leave MS where it belongs—behind us Please Join Our Team Here and lets walk towards a cure together.

On this week's episode, Peg Leg Meg and Sezzy the Lezzy chat with two mums about the loss of their baby girl. Carly and Tresne became mothers with hearts wide open—and then the world cracked open too. At just 11 weeks old, their daughter Poppy was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. What followed were 17 brutal, beautiful, unrelenting months of treatment including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, a bone marrow transplant, and isolation through Covid. Through it all, Poppy was joy. Light. Magic. Sadly, every parent's nightmare became their reality on February 16th, 2023, as she died in their arms. This is Part 1 of their story—a raw and deeply loving account of parenting through cancer, grieving in public and private, and learning how to carry the unbearable while still honouring the wonder of their little girl. It's a story of pain, but more than anything, it’s a story about love that refuses to die Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of childhood cancer, infant illness, and the death of a child. Please listen with care and take the space you need. SHOW NOTES: Milkshakes for Marleigh Find it here Redkite Find it here Phuket Cleanse Find it here Donate blood on behalf of Poppy Register here SPONSORSHIP: This episode is proudly sponsored by A Beautiful Occasion. Thank you for your support. For more information please visit A Beautiful Occasion. * Special thanks to our voiceover artist for their professional work on our advertisements. You can find Jeremy at That Alter Guy.

In this inspiring first episode featuring two incredible guests, Sezzy the Lezzy and Peg Leg Meg dive into the heartbreaking yet hopeful journeys of Alex and Ange, whose families have faced the unimaginable. Alex’s daughter Emma was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2022, leading to the creation of Emma’s Warriors, a charity supporting families navigating long hospital stays. Meanwhile, Ange’s son Spencer battled acute lymphoblastic leukaemia from just 15 months old, enduring years of treatment, hospital stays, and the constant uncertainty of remission. In this deeply emotional conversation, they share their stories, their triumphs, their darkest days, and the unbreakable bond they formed through shared struggles. Despite their children’s different paths, their connection as parents navigating the world of childhood cancer is unshakable. Tune in for an intimate look at resilience, hope, and the silver linings that emerge from life's toughest battles. Trigger Warning: This episode discusses childhood cancer and the emotional journey of parents with children battling cancer.

In this inspiring first episode featuring two incredible guests, Sezzy the Lezzy and Peg Leg Meg dive into the heartbreaking yet hopeful journeys of Alex and Ange, whose families have faced the unimaginable. Alex’s daughter Emma was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2022, leading to the creation of Emma’s Warriors, a charity supporting families navigating long hospital stays. Meanwhile, Ange’s son Spencer battled acute lymphoblastic leukaemia from just 15 months old, enduring years of treatment, hospital stays, and the constant uncertainty of remission. In this deeply emotional conversation, they share their stories, their triumphs, their darkest days, and the unbreakable bond they formed through shared struggles. Despite their children’s different paths, their connection as parents navigating the world of childhood cancer is unshakable. Tune in for an intimate look at resilience, hope, and the silver linings that emerge from life's toughest battles. Trigger Warning: This episode discusses childhood cancer and the emotional journey of parents with children battling cancer.

In this powerful episode of The Chronically Unbalanced Podcast, Bel sits down with Sarah and Megan and shares her incredibly raw and candid journey with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Diagnosed in 2019, she continues to fight this relentless disease, undergoing treatment every few weeks. From the moment she discovered something was wrong while at a concert to her experience with a mastectomy, this conversation delves deep into the realities of living with terminal cancer. Her openness and strength are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable challenges. Trigger Warning: This episode contains sensitive topics related to health and illness that may be difficult for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. If you need immediate assistance, please reach out to a crisis support service in your area. You are not alone. * Special thanks to the voiceover artist for their professional work on our advertisements. You can find Jeremy at That Alter Guy.