You're A Good Kid

Ali Daddo - The Invisible Icon

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:30:00 +1000

Today's guest has graced the absolute pinnacle of the Australian modeling and media landscape; author, podcaster, and former model Ali Brahe-Daddo. As the definitive cover girl for Dolly, Cleo, and Cosmopolitan, Ali built a public persona in the late 80s and 90s that looked to the world like the ultimate health, happiness, and triumph.

But what happens when you strip away the flawless public image? In this deeply moving interview, Ali connects with her youth in a profoundly raw and emotional way. She opens up about a pivotal reality that had a major impact on her development: the intense isolation she experienced as a young girl, spending much of her childhood feeling unseen despite her massive public visibility.

Ali shares how these early dynamics reshaped her internal messaging, her desire to downplay herself and please others back to her childhood search for safety and structure. We also dive into how Ali has come full circle for her audience. The very same generation of women who looked up to her as a teen icon on their favorite magazine covers now look to her for guidance in midlife. Through her hit book Queen Menopause: Finding Your Majesty in the Mayhem, Ali has broken down walls and destigmatized the aging process, helping many women step out of the shadows of the "invisible years" and reclaim their power.

In their post-interview debrief, James and Nick unpack the fascinating psychology behind Ali's childhood blueprint:

• The Blueprint of People-Pleasing: How early childhood isolation and unmet needs can subconsciously create rigid "schemas"—internalized rules that convince us we must morph to please others just to secure safety, structure, and avoid abandonment.

• The Cover-Girl Paradox: Exploring the disconnect between external validation and internal belief, and why being an "invisible icon" on the front of Dolly or Cleo proves that global adoration can never replace the foundational, focused attention a child needs from those closest to them.

• From Teen Icon to Midlife Guide: How confronting the vulnerabilities of her past allowed Ali to become the ultimate companion for women navigating menopause—shifting the narrative from societal invisibility to internal majesty.

This is a rare, captivating look at a familiar face, proving that no matter how flawless the image we build as adults, we are all still carrying the boys and girls we used to be.

📺 WE ARE ON YOUTUBE! Don't just listen—watch the full video version of this episode and subscribe to our channel so you never miss a moment: https://www.youtube.com/@YoureAGoodKidPodcast

📸 FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: For exclusive episode clips, behind-the-scenes insights, and show updates, follow us at @youragoodkidpodcast.

⭐️ LEAVE A REVIEW: If you’re enjoying the show and want to support us, please take a quick moment to drop us a review or a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It helps other "good kids" find our community!

Credits: Produced and Hosted by Dr James van Cuylenburg & Nick van Cuylenburg.

Audio production by White Owl Sound.

Season 2 is brought to you by Engage 1on1 Psychology

If you believe in what we are doing and would like to support us to make more, then we will gratefully accept any donations here: https://youreagoodkid.com.au/support

Russel Howcroft - Beyond the Brand

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 06:15:00 +1000

Today, we had the opportunity to speak to one of the most beloved media personalities in Australia. Our guest this week is advertising titan, broadcaster, and media executive Russel Howcroft. Widely known as the brilliant, sharp-witted panelist on ABC’s smash-hit show Gruen, and the co-host of Melbourne’s top-rated 3AW Breakfast radio program, Russel has spent decades at the absolute pinnacle of the Australian marketing world. He is the epitome of the refined, successful marketing man—a brand built on confidence, strategy, and triumph.

But what happens when you strip away the polished corporate image?

In this deeply moving interview, Russell connects with his youth in a way he rarely does publicly, in a revealing and emotional way. He opens up about a pivotal moment that had a profound impact on his development: the separation of his parents when he was a boy. Russell shares how this early disruption reshaped his worldview, and he traces the ultimate origins of his relentless drive to achieve and succeed back to his childhood dynamics.

He also shares a beautiful, deep connection to his past through nostalgic memories—particularly the safe, magical time spent at his grandfather’s house, which served as a crucial emotional sanctuary.

In their post-interview debrief, James and Nick unpack the fascinating psychology behind Russell's childhood blueprint:

The Architecture of Ambition: How early changes in family stability, like parental separation, can subconsciously ignite a powerful, lifelong drive to create order, security, and monumental success.

Nostalgia as a Psychological Anchor: The restorative power of childhood memories and how having a safe sanctuary provides a child with a vital blueprint for emotional security.

The Persona vs. The Inner Child: Exploring the contrast between the highly successful "adult brand" we present to the world and the deeply feeling child that still exists beneath it.

This is a rare, captivating look at a familiar face, proving that no matter how big the brand we build as adults, we are all still carrying the boys and girls we used to be.

📺 WE ARE ON YOUTUBE! Don't just listen—watch the full video version of this episode and subscribe to our channel so you never miss a moment: https://www.youtube.com/@YoureAGoodKidPodcast

📸 FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: For exclusive episode clips, behind-the-scenes insights, and show updates, follow us at @youragoodkidpodcast.

As mentioned in the episode, please check out the wonderul podcast Modern Wisdom.

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/23-lessons-from-2025-1034/id1347973549?i=1000741796108

Credits: Produced and Hosted by Dr James van Cuylenburg & Nick van Cuylenburg.

Audio production by White Owl Sound.

Season 2 is brought to you by Engage 1on1 Psychology

If you believe in what we are doing and would like to support us to make more, then we will gratefully accept any donations here: https://youreagoodkid.com.au/support

Sophie Cachia - My Secret Pain

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 06:15:00 +1000

On the second episode of Season 2, we are joined by someone who defines what it means to live authentically, fiercely, and out loud. Don't forget, you can watch this full, raw conversation right now over on our new YouTube channel!

Our guest this week is Australian media powerhouse, entrepreneur, and bestselling author Sophie Cachia. Rising to prominence as one of Australia’s first major digital creators, Sophie has built an absolute empire, founding successful businesses and capturing the nation's attention on Survivor Australia. She is also the author of the bestselling memoir Then There Was Her, a beautifully honest account of navigating her sexuality, identity, and life in the public eye.

But behind the business acumen, the digital influence, and the fierce public persona lies a deeply guarded childhood reality that Sophie is now sharing with a profound level of vulnerability: as a child, she was self-harming. It was a silent, internal storm—a secret pain that no one around her knew about. To the outside world, she was a bright, capable kid, but inside, she was navigating an overwhelming emotional weight without the tools to express it.

In their post-interview debrief, James and Nick step into the psychology of the "invisible struggle": A sensitive clinical look at why children turn to self-harm, exploring it not as attention-seeking behavior, but as a desperate attempt to regulate overwhelming internal pain when words fail, and the immense psychological freedom that comes from finally bringing your secret pain into the light.

This is a heavy, beautiful, and profoundly necessary conversation about the burdens children carry in silence, and the radical healing that happens when we choose to be honest with ourselves and each other.

📺 WE ARE ON YOUTUBE! Don't just listen—watch the full video version of this episode and subscribe to our channel so you never miss a moment: https://www.youtube.com/@YoureAGoodKidPodcast

📸 FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: For exclusive episode clips, behind-the-scenes insights, and show updates, follow us at @youragoodkidpodcast.

Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions of childhood self-harm. If this raises any difficult feelings for you, please reach out for support. In Australia, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. International listeners can find local resources at findahelpline.com.

Credits: Produced and Hosted by Dr James van Cuylenburg & Nick van Cuylenburg.

Audio production by White Owl Sound.

Season 2 is brought to you by Engage 1on1 Psychology

Special thanks to the wonderful Julia Ferracane from Righteous PR for introducing us to Sophie and for recommending her as a guest.

If you believe in what we are doing and would like to support us to make more, then we will gratefully accept any donations here: https://youreagoodkid.com.au/support

Kween Kong - You're Not Different, You're More

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +1000

Welcome back to You're a Good Kid! We are thrilled to kick off Season 2 with an absolute powerhouse of a guest. Not only are we back with a brand new lineup of deeply moving conversations, but we are officially on YouTube this season! You can now watch the full video episodes of our interviews and debriefs.

Our premier guest for Season 2 is the phenomenal Kween Kong (Thomas Charles Fonua). Before capturing hearts worldwide as a finalist on RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under (Season 2) and representing Oceania on RuPaul's Drag Race Global All Stars, Thomas was a celebrated principal dancer for New Zealand's Black Grace and the Australian Dance Theatre. An award-winning choreographer, cultural leader, Logie Award nominee, and founder of the Haus of Kong, Kween has spent her career breaking boundaries and advocating for Pacific and First Nations queer youth. But behind the global success, the runway glamour, and the artistic accolades lies a profound childhood story of survival, identity, and resilience.

Growing up as Thomas in South Auckland, life presented a complex web of challenges from an early age. Discovering his queerness as a young child meant navigating intense rejection from a strict Jehovah’s Witness church community and an abusive father. Yet, amidst the trauma and the pressure to suppress his true self, an extraordinary shield emerged. It came from the fierce love of his mother and grandmother, who handed him a psychological lifeline with a single, transformative sentence: "You are not different, you are more."

This is an unforgettable story about the heavy cost of hiding who you are, the breathtaking courage it takes to step into your truth, and the enduring power of unconditional love.

📺 WE ARE ON YOUTUBE! Don't just listen—watch the full video version of this episode and subscribe to our channel so you never miss a moment: https://www.youtube.com/@YoureAGoodKidPodcast

📸 FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: For exclusive episode clips, behind-the-scenes insights, and show updates, follow us at @youragoodkidpodcast.

Disclaimer: This podcast discussed mental health themes that may be triggering for some listeners. If anything in this episode causes distress, please contact your health professional, or if urgent, speak with Lifeline on 13 11 14

Credits: Produced and Hosted by Dr James van Cuylenburg & Nick van Cuylenburg.

Audio production by White Owl Sound.

Season 2 is brought to you by Engage 1on1 Psychology

If you believe in what we are doing and would like to support us to make more, then we will gratefully accept any donations here: https://youreagoodkid.com.au/support

Season 2 Trailer

Mon, 25 May 2026 06:30:00 +1000

Season 2 of You're A Good Kid has arrived! 12 new interviews with simply amazing guests, all of whom shared such vulnerable and powerful stories. We can't wait to share it with you all.

To see child-photos shared by guests, and some video clips from each episode, follow on Instragram: (https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast).

What we go through as kids will shape the course of our lives. Join James van Cuylenburg (Clinical Psychologist) and his brother, Nick van Cuylenburg (White Owl Sound), as they speak with a diverse range of people about how their childhoods have shaped them. Then, listen to guests read a letter to their child-selves. If you could say anything to your child-self, what would you say? Welcome back, to You're A Good Kid.

A Brief Brotherly Chat - Season Wrap-up!

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 21:05:00 +1000

James and Nick get together for a quick chat about the inaugural season of You're A Good Kid, and point the way forwards from here!

A sincere thank you to all our guests for season 1, and for all of you who have joined us on the journey so far. Lots more to come, we'll look forward to sharing more stories with you in the coming months!

Rosie Waterland - From Bachie Recaps to Broken Brains

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 19:50:00 +1000

Nobody gets through life easy. Each of us has our own challenges and pains to manage as we navigate our different upbringings. But it’s a simple fact that some childhood stories are so incredibly difficult and traumatic, you wonder how someone could possibly survive it, let alone grow to thrive in the aftermath. Rosie Waterland is something of a miracle. These days she’s a celebrated author, comedian and podcaster (and just a wonderful human being). But if there was a checklist of childhood risk factors, it’s fair to say Rosie’s upbringing would tick almost all of them.

Rosie is currently touring the country promoting her new book, “Broken Brains”, co-written with colleague and friend, Jamila Rizvi. Today we are incredibly grateful to share our chat with Rosie, which while ultimately uplifting, does cover several heavy topics, including a discussion of suicide and self-harm. Listener discretion is advised, and if support is required please speak to your mental health professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

Check out 'Broken Brains' https://www.amazon.com.au/Broken-Brains-Jamila-Rizvi-ebook/dp/B0DP1F65Z8/Check out 'The Anti-Cool Girl': https://tinyurl.com/4axvxsu7/

To follow Rosie, please head to https://www.instagram.com/rosiewaterland/

To see clips from Rosie’s episode, please follow us at https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast

Mark Leach - Finding Hope Beyond Trauma

Sun, 18 May 2025 19:01:00 +1000

Mark Leach is an Anglican Minister of 25 years and co-founder of 'Never Again Is Now', an organisation campaigning passionately against antisemitism.

As a child, Mark grew up in war-torn Zimbabwe. His extraordinary story includes significant trauma, which Mark has spent his life learning to understand, while also rediscovering hope through his relationships, his faith and his mission to teach and inspire.

As you will hear, he's a wonderful storyteller, with so much wisdom to share, and speaks with immense vulnerability and courage.

Please note this episode details stories of childhood trauma and abuse, including sexual abuse, which may be triggering for some listeners.

If the episode raises concerns for you regarding your own mental health, please contact your health provider, or you can speak with www.casahouse.com.au# for supprt releated to sexual abuse. If the concern is urgent, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

To learn more about Mark's campaign against antisemetism, head to www.neveragainisnow.com.au#

To see Mark's child photos as discussed in the episode, head to www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast#

Tessa Lee - Immigration, OCD and Rediscovering Joy

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 19:55:00 +1000

Tessa Lee is an esteemed Lawyer who began life in Malaysia. She and her family immigrated to Australia when Tessa was just 6, and faced many hardhips as they adjusted to life in a new country. In the absense of a traditionally loving and warm home, Tessa developed a highly self-critical mindset, driven towards success to prove her self-worth, which culminated in a diagnosis of OCD as an adult.

Now, Tessa is on a pathway to resdisover joy and a sense of belonging, and is bravely sharing her story to encourage others. We are very grateful to Tessa for travelling across the country to speak with us, and are certain her powerful story will inspire many.

To see Tessa's childhood photos discussed in the episode, head to https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast/#

Nazeem Hussain - Never talk to a Psychologist!

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 20:06:00 +1000

Nazeem Hussain has fast become one of the biggest stars of Australian comedy, and a much loved television and radio personality. He also happens to be a devout muslim and a fearless performer on stage, who is most comfortable telling jokes about non-controversal topics such as race, politics and religion.

On today's episode, Nazeem shares the powerful story of his childhood growing up without a dad, his strong bond with his mum, sisters, and his faith, and how he found the perfect avenue for his growing confidence and cheeky sense of humour. He also warns against the perils of chatting with a psychologist (aka, a total scam akin to visiting a psychic at the local mall).

If you would like to catch Nazeem on tour (which you absolutely should), his show dates can be found here: https://www.livenation.com.au/nazeem-hussain-tickets-adp591174

Or you can check out his latest comedy special here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aj5UfYL7sDc#

To see Nazeem's childhood photo discussed in the episode, head to https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast/#

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Lizi Bright - Ballet, Body Image and Healing

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 21:23:00 +1000

Lizi Bright is a sports/exercise scientist who has worked with the AFL and FIFA, and is currently completeing her PhD. But as a kid, she grew up in a challenging home, and battled for many years with an Eating Disoder.

Now, Lizi shares her inspiring story of recovery and healing. Lizi, thank you for your courage and willingingness to share this very powerful story.

If you or someone you care about is suffering from an Eating Disorder, here are some resources that might be helpful:

https://butterfly.org.au/

https://eatingdisorders.org.au/

https://nedc.com.au/eating-disorder-resources/families-supports

To see Lizi's child-self photo as discussed in the ep, please head to https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast/#

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jack Riewoldt - Looking on the Brightside

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 19:00:00 +1000

Jack Riewoldt is a beloved Australian household name. A celebrated AFL champion and prolific media personality, with a famously cheeky smile and confidence to give anything a go. On today's episode, we explore where Jack's sense of fun and self-belief comes from, in a nostalgic look back at his loving upbringing in Tasmania. We also explore the contrasting parenting styles from the 80's and 90's to how we raise our kids today, and explore whether too much nostalgia is good for us...

To see Jack's child-self photos as discussed in the ep, please head to https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast/#

To check out Jack's wonderful podcast Two Am I, with co-host Shane McCurry, head to https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/two-am-i/id1709921717#

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lael Stone - Checking in with our Child-Selves (Guest Expert!)

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 19:00:00 +1000

Lael Stone is a celebrated author, presenter and educator. Her Ted Talk 'How to Raise Emotionally Intelligent Children' has now had over 3 Million views. She is a featured presenter on the upcoming documentary 'Seen', has started her own amazing school (Woodline Primary), and is about to release her second book! Lael has generously found time to talk to us today, and we're so glad she did! We know you'll agree, she is a wonderful communicator with such helpful ideas. We cover so many topics, and just loved this chat so much. We hope you enjoy our first 'Guest Expert' episode!

To see Lael's child-self photos as discussed in the ep, please head to https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast/#

To learn more about all the amazing things Lael is up to, head to https://laelstone.com.au/ or follow Lael on instagram https://www.instagram.com/laelstone/#

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ashley Duns and Megan George - An ADHD Double-Dose

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 19:00:00 +1000

Ashley Duns and Megan George are the co-hosts of new podcast, ADHD Double-Dose. They were also both diagnosed with ADHD as adults, a diagnosis which completely reframed the way they now think about their respective childhoods. And not incidentally, Ash is also one of James' best friends of 25 years.

In this episode, listen to how Ash and Megan have adjusted to their diagnoses, their reflections on what childhood was like with ADHD, and their mission to help create awareness, understanding and compassion for others curious about the condition.

We are grateful to them both for sharing their stories. If you'd like to see Ash and Megan's child photos and some clips from the episode, head to https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast/#

To hear more from Ash and Megan, listen to their podcast ADHD Double Dose: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/adhd-double-dose/id1769979406

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shae Bolton-Brown - Bullying and the Pursuit of Perfection

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 19:00:00 +1000

Shae Bolton-Brown had an incredibly successful Netball career, culminating in representing Australia, and is now the general manager of Melbourne mavericks and SEN teams strategy - managing the portfolio of 5 professional sporting clubs. However as a child, Shae was bullied relentlessly through her primary and secondary years. These experiences led to repressed memories, and the paralysing pursuit of perfectionism in order to feel worthy.

Now, those memories have all come back. In recent years, Shae has been working hard to heal her inner-child, and rediscover real joy. Listen to Shae's remarkable story of childhood pain, and the pathway to self-acceptance. And at the end of the episode, James and Nick share some tips and takeaways for those listeners who have suffered bullying themselves, or have a child going through bullying today.

To see Shae's child-photos and some clips from the show head here: https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast/

To hear James' own bullying story, as discussed on The Imperfects, listen here: https://tinyurl.com/53yccn3h

And if you would like counselling support related to bullying or any themes raised in this episode, contact your GP, visit https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens/issues/bullying, or speak to Engage 1on1 Psychology for further information: https://www.engage1on1.com.au/

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Shane McCurry - Heart of the Country

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 19:00:00 +1000

For our third episode, we enjoy a soulful conversation with Shane McCurry; a decorated culture and leadership coach, a podcaster, and a proud country boy. Shane has worked with some of the biggest names across high performance sport (including North Melbourne and Richmond Football Clubs), in business, government and education settings. In our conversation today, Shane shares his strong connection to community and family, his love of stories, and his pet lamb Tommy.

To view Shane's child-photo and some clips from the episode, head to Instagram: www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast

Please check out Shane's amazing podcast Two Am I: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/two-am-i/id1709921717

To contact Shane about his cultural leadership programs, head to https://www.shanemccurry.com/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brenda Matthews - Daughter of the Stolen Generation

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 19:00:00 +1000

In our second episode, we are incredibly honoured to speak with Brenda Matthews, whose remarkable story we first learned about in her book and documentary, titled 'The Last Daughter'.\

Brenda is a member of the Stolen Generation, and despite the incredible loss and trauma she has suffered, hers is a remarkable story of resilience and hope. We were so amazed by Brenda's deep love for both her Indigenous and white families, and her ongoing project to create unity and healing among both cultures.

Brenda is available for public speaking engagements. You can follow/contact Brenda via Instagram (@auntybrendamatthews), Facebook, Tiktok, or her website (https://www.brendamatthews.com.au/)

To view Brenda's child-photo and some clips from today's episode, head over to Instagram (www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast).

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hugh van Cuylenburg - A Shy Kid with a Stutter

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 19:00:00 +1000

For our debut episode, we enjoy a chat with our wonderful cousin, and hear the story of a surprisingly shy kid who had to find his confidence. To check out Hugh's child-photo and some clips from today's episode, head over to Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast/

Hugh van Cuylenburg is the founder of The Resilience Project , best-selling author of "The Resiliece Project", and "Let Go", and co-host of The Imperfects, Australia's No.1 Mental Health Podcast. He is also very funny and we love him very much. Oh, and he was a very good kid!

Trailer - Introducing You're a Good Kid

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 19:00:00 +1000

To see child-photos shared by guests, and some video clips from each episode, follow on Instragram: (https://www.instagram.com/youreagoodkidpodcast).

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