#1 - Introduction: The Journey to Reconnect and Inspire

In the first episode of Engaging Conversations, host Leon Goltsman welcomes you to the weekly podcast that connects with the heart of our communities.

Through authentic and powerful dialogues, Leon shines a light on the people making a real difference—those unsung heroes who lead purposefully and inspire positive change. Hope in a world that often feels disconnected.

As the co-founder of Ecolibrium Headquarters, Leon begins with intriguing insights about Lake Macquarie, setting the tone for a series that celebrates both the beauty of our environment and the extraordinary individuals who shape it. Drawing on his 13 years as a Waverley Councillor, Leon shares the importance of accountability and how this podcast aims to deepen your understanding of our local area.

Each episode promises inspiring conversations with local leaders, volunteers, and experts dedicated to creating a better future. Whether you're passionate about community or the environment or simply looking to be inspired, Engaging Conversations is here to bring people together, one meaningful dialogue at a time.

Join us on this journey to reconnect, inspire, and be part of a supportive community committed to making a difference.

Transcript

Leon Goltsman: 0:02

Good morning, good afternoon or good evening, whenever and wherever you might be tuning in, welcome to the very first episode of Engaging Conversations, the podcast where we dive into the heart of our communities, talk to real people doing inspiring things and shine a light on the stories that make our neighbourhoods well, our neighbourhoods. I'm your host, leon Goldsman, co-founder of Ecolibrium Headquarters, and today's episode is proudly brought to you by Lake Mac, business and Focus, because who doesn't love a bit of uplifting energy in their day right Now? Before we get started, did you know that Lake Macquarie is more than twice the size of Sydney Harbour? That's right, it's a big body of water with an even bigger heart. We've got the best of both worlds here a relaxed lakeside lifestyle with beaches and bushland just a stone throw away. It's the kind of balance most of us only dream about. But let's face it whether you're in Sydney, melbourne, brisbane, adelaide, hobart or Perth, we all share something in common the challenges and opportunities that shape our communities. And what better way to explore that than by digging into what makes each place unique the people. The people who don't just go with the flow but who create the flow, who speak up when it matters and who inspire generations of leaders to come. These are the unsung heroes and, let's be real, every community has one.

Leon Goltsman: 1:36

At Engaging Conversations, we're dedicating each and every episode to these legends. Now you might be thinking, leon, that sounds amazing. But who are these people? Well, I'm glad you asked. We've already lined up some incredible guests this week. We've got everyone from recognizable leaders and celebrities to industry professionals, local volunteers, founders, ceos and, yes, even politicians. And let me tell you, we're not just going to ask the same old questions. Nope, we're drilling down to the kind of questions that don't just inspire change but serve as a catalyst for your own personal growth.

Leon Goltsman: 2:17

Now a quick personal note and a disclaimer. I've had the privilege of serving as a councillor for 13 years at Waverley Council Yep, that's right, the one with Bondi Rescue, bondi Pavilion and home to one of the most densely populated local government areas in Australia, with nearly 70,000 people squeezed into just 9.2 square kilometres. There seems to always be traffic issues and hardly ever enough parking to go around, but that's a story for another day. Over the years, I've seen firsthand how elected representatives can sometimes promise the world, especially during election time, and then develop what I like to call selective amnesia, and you know what. That just doesn't sit right with me. I've always believed, and I still do, that our elected officials should be held accountable. Now, I'm not pointing fingers at anyone in particular or any specific council, but I do believe that accountability is crucial. I'm sure many of the listeners right now would agree.

Leon Goltsman: 3:19

But let me be clear. This podcast isn't just about calling people out. It's about empowering each other and bringing back the connections we're fast losing in today's digital world. We live in a time when we can speak to anyone around the world in an instant, yet we're more disconnected than ever Crazy right. Yet despite all the tech and innovation, the increase in life expectancy, yet, despite all the tech and innovation, the increase in life expectancy, people are still feeling more isolated, more alone. In fact, studies show that loneliness can be as detrimental to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Shocking, I know, but that's why we're here to change that. One conversation at a time.

Leon Goltsman: 4:02

Now, speaking of incredible people making a real difference, let me tell you about Maria from Survivor's R Us. This Thursday, September the 5th, I'll be chatting with this absolute powerhouse of a human who's leading the charge against domestic violence right here in Lake Macquarie. Now Maria and her team are out there, providing food for the homeless, clothing for those in need and nearly 3,000 free hot breakfasts just in the last six months. It's people like Maria who remind us of the good in this world, and I can't wait for you all to hear her story. So here's what I need from you yes, you, the person listening right now Please follow us on your favorite podcast platform, whether that's iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. We're here, we're live, and we want to hear from you. Let us know what you think and, more importantly, who you think we should be talking to,

Leon Goltsman: 4:58

I'm also excited to introduce you to our incredible team behind the scenes who make all this possible. Giving people a voice, bringing our community together it's what drives us every single day, and I'm so grateful to have this platform to share these stories and to meet so many incredible people along the way. To learn more about our program, check out the show notes in this podcast, or head over to our website at wwwecohqcomau. That's ecohqcomau. And hey, if you want to drop me a line, shoot me an email at leonggoltzman at ecohqcomau. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Or, better yet, head over to your favorite podcast player, subscribe to our show and let's start engaging in some meaningful dialogue. Let's make this world a better place, one conversation at a time. I'm Leon Goldsman and I'm looking forward to catching up with you soon.