Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island artwork

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island

133 episodes - English - Latest episode: 1 day ago - ★★★★★ - 6 ratings

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island is a chance to hear from amazing Aussies about what it means to be an Australian.

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Episodes

No everyone has qualified for Paris

July 17, 2024 03:12 - 25 minutes - 381 MB Video

With around 60 days left until the Paralympics in Paris are underway, Ryley and Kurt catch up about the electrifying atmosphere building up for the Games. Joining them is special guest Kylie Gauci, a star in wheelchair basketball. Kylie shares her journey, insights into the sport, and what it takes to compete at the highest level.

Catching Up with Michael Roeger - Eyes on Paris!

July 15, 2024 02:04 - 23 minutes - 348 MB Video

Kurt Fearnley and Chad Perris sit down with the incredible Michael Roeger. Michael, a true champion and world record holder, has had an extraordinary career filled with highs, lows, and invaluable lessons. As he sets his sights on the Paris Paralympics, Michael shares his goals, strategies, and the motivation driving him towards the Games. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation beyond the medals and records, revealing the passion and determination that make Michael Roeger a true Paralympi...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Peter Doherty

July 15, 2024 01:44 - 49 minutes - 45.2 MB

  We sit down with Peter Doherty, Nobel Prize-winning immunologist and passionate advocate for scientific research. In this conversation, Kurt delves into Peter's groundbreaking work in immunology, his perspectives on global health challenges, and the vital role of science in our rapidly changing world. From the intricacies of the immune system to the importance of informed public health policies, Peter shares his vast knowledge and passion for science. It's an episode filled with insightf...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Steve Binnie

July 02, 2024 04:25 - 57 minutes - 52.9 MB

Steve Binnie is a dedicated farmer from New South Wales who has carved out a niche in the premium Wagyu beef industry. He delve into the world of Wagyu beef, exploring the meticulous processes and passionate commitment required to produce some of the finest beef in the world. Steve shares his journey into farming, the challenges and rewards of raising Wagyu cattle, and his insights on sustainable and ethical farming practices. Whether you're a foodie, a farming enthusiast, or simply curious ...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Michael Atkinson

June 26, 2024 03:21 - 1 hour - 60 MB

Tiny Island is back for another season! And to kick things off Kurt sits down with Michael Atkinson, better known as Outback Mike. At 47 years old, Mike is an adventurer, filmmaker, and former military pilot with a wealth of stories and experiences to share. Mike’s passion for the extreme outdoors and his knack for capturing the raw essence of adventure on film led him to create his award-winning film, "Surviving the Outback." 

Dan Michel's plans for Gold at Paris 2024

June 12, 2024 02:28 - 18 minutes - 17.2 MB

We welcome back a familiar and much-loved guest, Dan Michel. Fresh from his recent triumph at the World Boccia Championships in Canada, Dan shares the exhilarating journey that led to his incredible achievement of winning two silver medals. With Paris 2024 on the horizon, Dan's reflections on his journey and his dream for Paris.   You Little Ripper

Rising Star: Georgia Gunew's first podium finish

June 11, 2024 02:24 - 21 minutes - 19.7 MB

You Little Ripper is the podcast that celebrates the incredible achievements of our para-athletes! This week Kurt Fearnley and Chad Perris catch up with Georgia Gunew. She burst onto the para-snow scene just two years ago and has been unstoppable ever since. Teaming up with her guide, Ethan Jackson, she has had an extraordinary winter season. From a flurry of top 5 finishes to an unforgettable podium appearance in Switzerland.

Rolling through two decades with Tristan Knowles

June 10, 2024 02:20 - 29 minutes - 27 MB

Kurt Fearnley and Ryley Batt sit down with wheelchair basketball legend Tristan Knowles. With over two decades of experience, Knowles is a force to be reckoned with. From unforgettable moments on the court to the invaluable lessons learned, this episode celebrates resilience, passion, and the unbreakable bond that unites athletes.   You Little Ripper

When Ping Pong is your thing👑🏓😁

June 09, 2024 02:12 - 23 minutes - 21.2 MB

Milly Tapper is a para-table tennis sensation, and her love for the game is infectious. She joins hosts Kurt Fearnley and Ella Sabljak to share her remarkable journey from local tournaments to competing on the world's biggest stages. Southwest Society  You Little Ripper 

Celebrating the road to Paris with the Aussie Steelers

June 08, 2024 01:36 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MB

Let's celebrate a monumental achievement in Paralympic sports: the qualification of the Australian Steelers for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Join us as Kurt Fearnley, Ryley Bat, and Ella Sabljak share their excitement and relief at finally qualifying for Paris 2024.  

Emma Booth's search for a new 'dancing partner'

June 07, 2024 01:24 - 22 minutes - 20.9 MB

Emma Booth is an extraordinary para-athlete who joins Kurt Fearnley and Chad Perris to share her remarkable journey in para-equestrian. From her first Paralympics in Rio to travelling to Germany to find a ‘dancing partner’ to take to Paris in a few months, Emma provides invaluable perspectives on the intersection of sport, determination and passion. You Little Ripper 

Preparing for the Paris Paralympics with Chad Perris

June 06, 2024 01:08 - 27 minutes - 25.1 MB

Kurt Fearnley and Ella Sabljak catch up with the incredible Chad Perris. With the Paris Paralympics looming, Perris shares his journey, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the intense training, mental fortitude, and unwavering dedication required to compete at the pinnacle of athletic achievement. You Little Ripper  

Rowing towards Paris with Nikki Ayers and Jed Altschwager

June 05, 2024 00:54 - 33 minutes - 30.5 MB

Join Kurt Fearnley & Ryley Batt on the season premiere of You Little Ripper. In this episode, they sit down with para-rowers Nikki Ayers and Jed Altschwager as they share their incredible journey toward qualification for the Paris Paralympic Games.  You Littler Ripper

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Jackie Fearnley

March 22, 2023 23:35 - 35 minutes - 32.6 MB

In this episode of Tiny Island, host Kurt Fearnley sits down with his first return guest!    Back in one of our first episodes Kurt spoke with his mum, Jackie, when they were in Kenya visiting Kurt Fearnley Centre for children with disability.    This time Kurt and Jackie talk about raising a child with disability, some of the decisions the family had to make, and what it was like to follow the career of a professional wheelchair racer.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Rhys Muldoon

March 16, 2023 23:01 - 1 hour - 55.2 MB

In this episode of Tiny Island, host Kurt Fearnley sits down with Australian actor and comedian Rhys Muldoon to discuss his life and career. Rhys opens up about his childhood growing up in Melbourne, his early years in the entertainment industry, and his experiences working on some of Australia's most beloved television shows. Rhys also shares some of his favorite memories from his time working on shows like Play School, The Saddle Club, and Bluey, and offers insights into what makes these...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: John Howard

March 10, 2023 06:10 - 54 minutes - 49.9 MB

In this episode of Tiny Island, host Kurt Fearnley sits down with former Australian Prime Minister John Howard to discuss his life in politics and beyond. He reflects on his childhood in a working-class Sydney suburb, and how his experiences growing up shaped his political beliefs. Mr Howard offers candid insights into his decision-making process and his philosophy on leadership, and shares personal anecdotes about some of the most memorable moments of his time in office.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: David Connolly

March 02, 2023 21:11 - 41 minutes - 38 MB

Kurt Fearnley sits down with David Connolly, the general manager of Tipperary group of stations in the Northern Territory. David shares his experiences of managing the stations, which cover an area larger than the size of Switzerland! He discusses the challenges of running a business in such a remote location, from the logistics of getting supplies to the stations to dealing with extreme weather conditions. They reflect on the beauty of the Australian outback and the importance of preservi...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Alison Battisson

February 22, 2023 01:11 - 57 minutes - 52.4 MB

Alison Battisson runs a legal and advocacy organisation that promotes human rights for refugees and asylum seekers. Kurt and Alison were part of a team who helped Afghan Paralympian get to the Tokyo games. Kurt and Alison discuss the complex issues surrounding the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers, the importance of advocacy and legal representation.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Royce Simmons

February 16, 2023 04:36 - 42 minutes - 38.6 MB

Royce Simmons is a rugby league legend and all round great Aussie. He's a premiership winning captain of the Penrith Panthers and now faces another challenge after he was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Kurt and Royce chat about his early days growing up in rural New South Wales, his career in rugby league and all the highs and lows of his journey.  

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Stan Grant

February 06, 2023 00:46 - 1 hour - 58 MB

We're back for 2023! In this episode of Tiny Island, host Kurt Fearnley welcomes special guest Stan Grant, renowned journalist, author and commentator. Kurt and Stan delve into the complexities of identity, culture and the power of storytelling. With their shared experiences and unique perspectives, they discuss the challenges faced by Indigenous communities and the importance of amplifying their voices.  

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Mark Humphries

May 21, 2022 01:26 - 1 hour - 58.4 MB

At a time when real life politics seems like satire, you'd think the satirists would be out of a job. Instead, they've just taken their craft to another level. Mark Humphries is one of our best, funny, yet thoughtful and humble. At the end of an exhausting election campaign in Australia it was great to have a yarn about the lighter side of politics.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Dr Dinesh Palipana

May 11, 2022 01:55 - 46 minutes - 43 MB

To sum up Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM in a few sentences isn't possible so I'll try with just some of the headings. Medical doctor, lawyer, senior advisor to a Royal Commission, Queensland Australian of the Year, advocate, researcher, innovator, quadraplegic. With everything going on his life I was grateful to spend some time chatting with the calm, confident and lovely Dinesh. You will love this chat.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Jimmy Frank

April 27, 2022 05:10 - 35 minutes - 32.8 MB

Jimmy Frank is a Warumungu man passionate about sharing his culture. Through his work at the Warumungu Culture Centre and as a member of art collective the Tennant Creek Brio, he strives to educate people by sharing stories and histories from a Wumprurrarni (Aboriginal) perspective. He believes that truth telling is the best tool to unite divides and to allow a better understanding of what it is to be Australian.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: El Gibbs

April 20, 2022 02:27 - 59 minutes - 54.7 MB

El Gibbs describes herself in her Twitter profile as a grumpy optimist and her handle is Blunt Shovels. That may be El's self assessment but I'd add words like fierce, determined and truth-teller. El is a tremendous (and loud!) voice for Australia's disability community and it was wonderful to sit down and yarn about some of the things which are impacting people with disability.  Chatting with El is always eye-opener and a reinforcement of the work we still have to do for better inclusion, a...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Darren Hill

April 12, 2022 23:22 - 1 hour - 65.3 MB

Darren Hill helps people think about how best to do the big stuff in their lives. Whether it's working through business strategy or culture with an ASX leader, delivering a keynote to thousands, or popping up in the paper or on the TV for his views on business leadership and workplace culture, Darren is a deep-thinker and thought provoker. We've worked together on a few things over the years but this was our first chance to deep dive into some of the meatier stuff Darren works on. I think yo...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Emma Race

April 06, 2022 00:17 - 1 hour - 60.6 MB

I love listening to Emma Race and her band of Outer Sanctum sisters talk about the big stuff in the context of sport, in particular AFL.  Her drive to make sure footy (and sport in general) is for everyone is matched by her passion for the game and the joy it brings to her and her family.  Our yarn was also a lovely reminder that the game is WAY more than the athletes on the field. Away from footy Emma has done some tremendous work with Our Watch, a national leader in the prevention of viole...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Trent Bagnall

March 29, 2022 22:03 - 50 minutes - 46.4 MB

Trent Bagnall likes to work with others to solve problems. After successfully building a software company from zero to a $30 million sale, Trent started working with innovators and startups to solve new and old business problems. The corporate startup accelerator he started with a mate, Slingshot, brings corporates and startups together to help them grow. Trent is a fantastic ambassador for my home town Newcastle. 

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Lara Lowndes

March 23, 2022 04:12 - 1 hour - 56.2 MB

Lara Lowndes describes herself as half nerd, half rev-head.  She trained as an oncogeneticist and currently works as the board director for The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation. But she is also in the Australian Supercar pits with the Holden RedBull racing team, managing V8 racing legend and husband, Craig Lowndes.  This rev-head scientist is a wonderful Aussie doing some very exciting things for medical research in Australia.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: You Little Ripper!

March 08, 2022 03:57 - 22 minutes - 20.5 MB

Bonus Episode: You Little Ripper! is another podcast project I'm working on with Georgie Tunny and it's a celebration of Paralympic sport. Here is our latest episode where you'll hear from Ben Tudhope, who won Bronze in the snowboard cross and sit-ski legend Sam Tait.  

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Peter FitzSimons

March 03, 2022 08:03 - 54 minutes - 49.8 MB

Tiny Island is back! What better way to restart the pod about who we are as Australians, than with the leader of the Australian Republic Movement and Australian history author Peter FitzSimons? My first interaction with Peter was when I was starting to map out what a crawl across the Kokoda Track would look like. I'd been shut down by a few people but Peter hooked me up with the man who would eventually plan and lead our journey across the track. He is one of the people I've met on my journe...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Georgie Tunny

September 09, 2021 09:17 - 41 minutes - 38.1 MB

Georgie Tunny is a passionate sports reporter for the ABC. Born in Brisbane she grew up watching the footy with her father. And from there her love of all things sport grew. We've just finished a podcast called You Little Ripper, and we had a blast. I hope you enjoy getting to know Georgie Tunny.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Rheed McCracken

August 25, 2021 08:11 - 40 minutes - 37.1 MB

I have four older siblings but consider Rheed McCracken to be the younger brother I never had. He lives around the corner from me now, we shared the same coach and he's had to put up with my cooking and look after my kids... Rheed is a four time Paralympic medallist and is in Tokyo chasing the elusive gold in the men's T34 100m and 800m. I met Rheed as a shy teenager, but these days he doubles his wheelchair racing career with a spot on fashion runways!

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Isis Holt

August 18, 2021 06:29 - 53 minutes - 97.6 MB

Not many people are best in the world at what they do as a teenager. Isis Holt is one of those rarities. Breaking her first world records within a year of taking up competitive running, Isis went on to win her first world championship at age 14. Then in her Paralympic debut at the 2016 Rio Games she medalled in three events but no gold. She bounced back to win gold at the 2017 World Championships and 2018 Commonwealth Games then stepped away from the track to learn a little more about hersel...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Major Robert Mitchell

August 11, 2021 10:11 - 52 minutes - 48 MB

Major Robert Mitchell has dedicated his life to protecting Australia. He's currently serving in the Australian Defence Force, running programs that make a real difference in the lives of returned service men and women. He's also worked as a cop in regional NSW.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Sjana Earp

August 04, 2021 04:57 - 52 minutes - 48.3 MB

As a teenager, Novocastrian Sjana Earp suffered from bullying, anxiety and depression. Until she found a passion for life through yoga, travel, photography and writing. Sjana has built a career out of sharing and teaching yoga across the globe and is an advocate for self-acceptance and body confidence, mental health, equality and the environment. She's also self declared hugger! 

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Jeff Horn

July 28, 2021 05:52 - 43 minutes - 39.7 MB

Like me, Jeff Horn is a school teacher but it's probably not what he's best known for. He held boxing's WBO welterweight title from 2017 to 2018 and as a rising star represented Australia at the London Olympics. But it's probably his 2017 win over Manny Pacquiao where he made his name. We cover a lot of ground in this interview.  Kids, his anti-bullying work even if a comeback is on the cards.  

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Melanie Brock

July 21, 2021 06:20 - 1 hour - 63.1 MB

As attention turns to Tokyo for the Olympics, it was great to have a yarn with someone who knows Japan close to as well as any Australian, and who is also engaged in elite sport. Melanie Brock connects people in Japan with Australians through a variety of roles, including as an ambassador for Advance.org, the professional network for global Australians. She's also involved with the Minerva Network, a group of women supporting Australian women in the business of sport. 

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Dan MacPherson

July 14, 2021 10:12 - 1 hour - 72.8 MB

You might know Dan MacPherson from one of many different roles. Triathlete, police officer on The Bill, Dancing with the Stars host, sci fi or stage actor, he definitely packs a lot in! Dan is a genuinely lovely bloke and it was wonderful to finally sit down and have a chat about a few of the different hats he's worn. 

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Libby Trickett

July 07, 2021 01:59 - 1 hour - 63.6 MB

Who can forget seeing the wonderful Libby Trickett (nee Lenton) on our TV screens, winning Olympic Gold and smashing World Records? But an athlete's career extends before and after their moment in the limelight, and it can be a tough road. While getting to the start line is one thing, it's the days, weeks and years post sporting career which are probably the toughest. Libby and I had a great catch-up, chatting about life in the Olympic bubble, mental health, parenting, Bluey, podcasts and ho...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Back soon!

June 09, 2021 05:41 - 1 minute - 1.71 MB

I've been out and about gathering some great yarns for you all and will be back soon!

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Daley Pearson

April 28, 2021 09:23 - 1 hour - 67.8 MB

Some TV shows transcend the market they are directed at and Bluey is definitely in that category. Especially in my house! Daley Pearson is a co founder of Ludo Studio, the Brisbane-based production company behind Australia's most watched TV series which has more than 350 million downloads and is now a global hit. Ludo has won three Emmy Awards, a Logie and a few others things along the way. And Daley is a Marvel Universe hero too, starring as Thor's roommate, Darryl, in Taika Waititi's Team ...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Bob Brown

April 21, 2021 05:48 - 37 minutes - 34 MB

Bob Brown has lived a life of activism. From nearly 30 years in state and federal Parliament to leading a truck convoy protesting against a coal mine and establishing his own foundation which 'takes action for Earth', Bob has been on the frontline for decades. Oh, he's also a trained medical doctor, Australia's first openly gay Member of Parliament and has publisher nearly a dozen books.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: John Morris

April 14, 2021 03:27 - 45 minutes - 41.3 MB

John Morris is a rugby league legend, playing 300 first grade games before his career was ended by injury. He transitioned to coaching straight away, taking charge of the Cronulla Sharks first grade team while still in his 30s, leading them to consecutive finals appearances in the midst of Covid, a transitioning playing list and other controversy. We spoke just before the 2021 season kicked off. Six weeks later, the Sharks sit just outside the finals spots and John has been sacked by his clu...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Natasha Stott Despoja

April 07, 2021 05:06 - 55 minutes - 50.4 MB

Natasha Stott Despoja entered the Australian Parliament in her twenties and went on to represent South Australia and the Australian Democrats for 13 years, including a period as leader. Post politics, Natasha has worked in the media and led a life of service. She is most well known for her work in gender equality and in 2020 was elected to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, becoming Australia's first member of the committee in 28 years. 

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Andy Reid

March 31, 2021 05:33 - 1 hour - 132 MB

Many international listeners would identify Australia's beach-going lifestyle with one patch of sand in Sydney, largely thanks to today's guest and his colleagues. Born and bred in Bondi, Andy "Reidy" Reid is most well-known for his role as a lifeguard on worldwide TV hit, Bondi Rescue. There's more to Reidy than his day job and subsequent TV fame. Entertainer, athlete, documentary star. An all round great Aussie. 

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Felicia Jedrasiak

March 24, 2021 04:52 - 1 hour - 124 MB

Polish-Australian Felicia Jedrasiak spent her teenage years in a German concentration camp and working as forced labour on a soldier's farm. Yet her life has been full of so much joy. Mrs Jay has lived an extraordinary life. From the tiny village of Ruda Różaniecka in Poland, to Majdanek concentration camp, and a refugee camp in Italy where she found her life love, before making her way to Cabramatta in Sydney's west. Felicia's son Peter, my cousin, also jumps in on this episode to help join...

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Reece Hignell

March 10, 2021 03:08 - 51 minutes - 47 MB

Reece Hignell has a lifelong love of food. In particular, his Nan's cakes. Reece's passion took him to Australian MasterChef twice, and more recently to open his own bakery, Cakeboi in Newcastle. While people are travelling from across the country to nab one of Reece's cakes, I'm fortunately, or unfortunately if you ask my retired athlete body, just a couple of blocks away. 

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Di Pass

March 03, 2021 06:02 - 56 minutes - 51.5 MB

Di Pass has spent the last 20 years recruiting people for jobs, including the 12,000 people who worked at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.  She was also one of the first people to believe enough in me to sponsor me. 

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Alex McKinnon

February 24, 2021 04:39 - 59 minutes - 54.8 MB

Alex McKinnon was an up and coming 22 year old rugby league first grader when his life changed in one infamous tackle. The spinal injury he suffered, meant no more footy and life in a wheelchair. We chat parenting with a disability, finding your place in life post sporting career and reflect on what its like as a wheelchair user in Australia.

Kurt Fearnley's Tiny Island: Peter V'Landys

February 17, 2021 02:05 - 52 minutes - 47.8 MB

Peter V'Landys loved horse racing and rugby league, sports followed by millions of Australians. As an administrator the goal was to contribute to one. Then he was appointed to roles in both, working concurrently in two of the highest profile sports administration jobs in the country. When Covid hit V'Landys applied what he'd learnt in horse racing to rugby league with the NRL one of the first sports worldwide to operate in this global pandemic.