Advertise on podcast: The Uplift Podcast

With the Singleton Show just around the corner, we sat down with Bill Stacey, President of the Northern Agricultural Association, for a chat about all things Singleton Show.   Bill takes us behind the scenes of an event that has been part of our community for more than 150 years! From the volunteers who put in countless hours throughout the year, to the stories, characters and traditions that make the Show what it is.   We chat about growing up around country communities, some of Bill’s favourite memories, the challenges of keeping events like this going and why the Showground is about so much more than just one weekend a year.   We also find out the story behind the Wife Carrying Championships… because we had to ask!   A great chat about community, volunteering and keeping a much loved Singleton tradition going for the next generation.

What does nearly two decades in policing teach you about people, community and the circumstances that shape our lives? This week on The Uplift Podcast, we’re joined by Mel McLachlan - former Detective Sergeant and current Singleton Councillor for a fascinating conversation about the experiences that have shaped her perspective on people and the community she calls home. Mel takes us from her 18 years in the NSW Police Force to the decision to step into local government, sharing some of the lessons, challenges and unexpected moments along the way. We talk about what happens behind the scenes of local decision-making, why having a voice in your community matters, the realities of being a Councillor and Mel’s hopes for Singleton’s future. An open, interesting conversation about people, perspective and what it means to genuinely care about the community around you. Thanks for joining us Mel!

This week on The Uplift Podcast, we are joined by Tabatha Kattau for a deeply honest conversation about life's turning points, finding purpose and learning to live with greater intention. After more than 20 years in corporate leadership, Tabatha stepped away from the career she had built to follow a path of helping others. Today, she's an Emotional Wellness Therapist, NLP Master Practitioner, author of The Gift and founder of Sincerus Mindset Coaching, supporting people to better understand themselves and create lasting change. In this episode, Tabatha shares her own journey through change, the lessons she has learned along the way and the wisdom she now passes on to others. We talk about burnout, anxiety, the stories we unknowingly tell ourselves and why slowing down to reconnect with what truly matters can be one of the most powerful things we ever do. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck or looking for a fresh perspective, this conversation is filled with practical advice, heartfelt moments and gentle reminders that change is possible. Thank you Tabatha, for sharing your story, your wisdom and your heart with our listeners.

This week on The Uplift Podcast, we are joined by the wonderful Angela Penton for a conversation that will leave you thinking differently about people, workplaces and the power of inclusion. Angela has spent years working in Human Resources and has always believed that every person has unique strengths to offer. In this episode, she shares her experiences supporting people from all walks of life, why labels can often limit potential and how businesses can create environments where people feel valued and supported. As a member of the re dyslexia Lived Experience & Subject Matter Expert Advisory Committee, Angela also discusses the power of education, awareness and practical strategies that help businesses build more supportive and inclusive environments for people with dyslexia and other learning differences. We also chat about embracing change, challenging assumptions and the small shifts that can make a big difference to someone's confidence, wellbeing and success at work. More than anything, this episode is a reminder to lead with kindness, stay curious and take the time to understand the people around us.  Thank you Angela for such an honest, thoughtful and inspiring conversation.

This week we sit down with Scott Keesing, the General Manager of the Singleton Neighbourhood Centre, to talk about the people, challenges and stories at the heart of one of our community’s very important organisations. Scott shares his journey into community work, what he walked into when he first stepped into the role and how a few big ideas, strong partnerships and a passionate team have already led to some incredible wins, from a huge Christmas appeal to grants and even a new vehicle for the centre. We also talk about the growing pressures facing local families, the common stories heard every day and how the Neighbourhood Centre supports people through times of crisis and uncertainty. Scott gives us an insight into the staff, volunteers and community supporters and shares some of the moments that remind him why this work matters so much. This episode is a powerful reminder that many people in our own community are quietly doing it tough and that even small acts of kindness, whether it is volunteering, donating or simply spreading the word can make a real difference. Thank you for joining us Scott and sharing your story, the work of Singleton Neighbourhood Centre and the incredible impact being made every day in our community.

This week we sit down with Felicity Dyson from the Dyson Family Foundation to talk about the heart behind Backpack Pals, a program supporting local children and families doing it tough. Felicity shares how Backpack Pals first came to life, the growing need within communities and the impact something as simple as a backpack can have on a child, not just practically but emotionally too. We also talk about the importance of community support, the people and organisations helping make the program possible and the moments that continue to remind the team why this work matters so deeply. This episode is a powerful reminder that many families are quietly doing it tough, especially with the rising cost of living and how you can support local children through the Dyson Family Foundation Backpack Pals program. Thank you Felicity for joining us and sharing the story behind Backpack Pals and the incredible work of the Dyson Family Foundation with us.

This week we sit down with Kirsty Boag, who is part of Stars of the Hunter 2026, a fundraiser by the Cancer Council, an organisation that provides vital support, research and care for those impacted by cancer. Kirsty is no stranger to the devastating reality of cancer, having experienced it through many loved ones and, most recently, the loss of her best friend. In this episode, she shares what that journey has looked like… the grief, the memories and the moments that stay with you forever. When she was first asked to take part in Stars of the Hunter, her instinct was to say no… “I can’t dance.” But in reflecting on the people she loves, those who have gone through so much and those still fighting, everything shifted. What felt uncomfortable suddenly felt important. We talk about the heart behind her campaign, what Stars of the Hunter involves and how events like this help raise critical funds for the Cancer Council to continue supporting individuals and families through some of life’s hardest moments. This episode is raw, emotional and deeply personal. A reminder of love, loss and the strength people carry through it all… and how you can support her fundraising journey.  Thank you for sharing these honest and vulnerable moments with us Kirsty 💜

This week, we sit down with Monette Lee, a local mum Harry met by chance in Singleton, whose story offers a raw and honest insight into raising a child with a disability.   Monette shares her journey with her daughter Tassy, who is legally blind and lives with cerebral palsy and what everyday life, learning and support really look like behind the scenes. We talk about the challenges within the school system, her decision to homeschool and the moments where you realise how much awareness and understanding still matter.   The episode also dives into the small but powerful ways families can start these conversations at home, helping kids grow up kinder, more aware and more inclusive of those around them. Because sometimes, feeling seen and heard is not about big gestures, it is in the simple moments.   This one will really make you think about the way we show up for others and the difference and will leave you feeling inspired by the wonderful Lee family. Thank you for joining us Monette!💜

This week, we sit down with Lisa Brock, Manager at Singleton Family Support to talk about the important work happening behind the scenes to support local families doing it tough. Lisa shares insight into the services they provide, including counselling, family support work, therapeutic programs and referrals, all delivered in a safe and welcoming environment for individuals and families navigating challenging times. Throughout the conversation, we explore the realities many families face, from financial stress to relationship challenges and the role community plays in helping people feel supported and connected. Lisa also highlights the small but meaningful ways Singleton Family Support can assist, including the use of donated coffee and grocery vouchers to ease immediate pressure. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact local services can have and how small acts of kindness within our community can make a real difference. Lisa encourages listeners to reach out for support if needed and to consider simple ways they can give back and support others.

This week, we sit down with Jan Fallding, a passionate Singleton local who has spent her life giving back to the community through music, work and volunteering. Jan shares stories from a remarkable journey that has included founding a large orchestra, building a career in strategic planning and contributing her time to many community organisations. We talk about the role music has played in her life, the connections it creates and the joy it can bring to people of all ages. Throughout the conversation, Jan reflects on the importance of community, the value of sharing your skills and the impact volunteering can have not only on others, but on your own life as well. This episode is a warm and inspiring reminder that getting involved, trying something new and giving your time can lead to some of the most meaningful experiences life has to offer. Jan also encourages listeners to consider volunteering or exploring music themselves, two things that have brought her some of the greatest highlights of her life.

This week, we sit down with Beck and Anthony (Loz) Lojszczyk and their son Taylor, a local Singleton family sharing their deeply personal journey through parenthood, diagnosis and resilience. Taylor lives with a rare and complex undiagnosed syndrome, Beck and Loz open up about the realities of navigating medical uncertainty, schooling, family life and the emotional toll that comes with not having all the answers. We talk about the challenges they have faced, the strength it has taken to keep going and the community that has supported them along the way. Taylor also shares his dream to ride a bike and what that would mean for his independence, confidence and everyday life. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact of community support and how coming together can help turn one young person’s dream into a reality.

This week, we are joined by Di Sneddon, a respected local journalist whose reporting has helped keep our community informed, connected and supported for many years. Di has covered thousands of local stories, from everyday achievements and milestones to major events, emergencies and natural disasters that have shaped our region. But beyond the headlines, who is the person behind the articles? In this episode, Di shares her journey into journalism, her role in local media and what it is really like reporting on a community you care deeply about. We talk about the responsibility of telling local stories with accuracy & compassion and the moments that have stayed with her most. We also explore Di’s strong connection to community service, including how people can support our town during emergencies by volunteering with the Red Cross Emergency Disaster Response team, and why having trained local volunteers makes such a difference when disaster strikes.

This week we are joined by Jeremy Brett, General Manager at Morgan Engineering, a long standing family business that has been part of the Singleton community for generations. Jeremy shares his perspective on leadership, workplace culture and the responsibility businesses have to give back to the communities they operate in. We talk about the importance of building strong, values driven teams and how investing in people, particularly through apprenticeships and career pathways creates lasting impact well beyond the workplace. We also dive into how a positive internal culture can uplift a workforce, empowering employees to feel proud of where they work and motivated to support local causes and community initiatives. We wrap up with Jeremy’s call to action for managers and leaders: practical ways to strengthen culture, lead with purpose and create workplaces that not only perform well, but actively contribute to the wellbeing of their people and their community.

This week we are joined by Kay Sullivan, a Singleton local who has dedicated over 40 years of her life to serving the community, with a deep and lasting commitment to the Singleton Cancer Appeal.   Kay shares her journey and the incredible impact of the Singleton Cancer Appeal, including the vital funds raised to build four palliative care rooms at Singleton Hospital, with two more currently underway. We also talk about the many other projects supported by the appeal, from the memorial sensory garden and ongoing room maintenance to weekly assistance for local people undergoing cancer treatment.   We also dive into Kay’s role coordinating Dolly’s Op Shop, a much loved local charity store that allows the community to give back while raising essential funds for the appeal.   We wrap up by sharing how you can get involved! Whether that is volunteering, donating, supporting Dolly’s Op Shop or becoming part of the ongoing work of the Singleton Cancer Appeal.

This week we are joined by Kim Nguyen - Singleton local, mining leader and the heart behind Soft Cogs Inc.  Kim opens up about his journey, career and personal hardship and how that led him to build a bike riding community that has now raised over $1 million for charity. We also chat about the Soft Cogs groms mountain bike academy where local kids are learning to ride safely, grow in confidence and connect through cycling.   We wrap up by sharing how you can get involved, from joining a Soft Cogs ride to supporting the cause or signing your kids up for the Groms mountain bike academy and becoming part of this incredible local movement!