Curious AF

In this episode Luke sits down with Helen Glanville to explore a powerful story of ambition, collapse, and redemption.

Helen shares the true story behind her book A Second Chance: A Disgraced Lawyer’s Journey, chronicling the rise and fall of her late husband, a high-flying Sydney lawyer whose desperate decisions led to prison, public shame, and the loss of everything.

Together, Luke and Helen unpack the quiet pressures that drive people to the edge, how identity becomes tangled with success, and why losing everything can sometimes be the beginning of a more meaningful life.

In this raw and deeply human conversation, Luke sits down with Arkadi Krasnopevtzev, co-founder of Soulffee, a mindful coffee alternative born after a life-changing brain bleed and surgery. Arkadi shares how nearly losing everything forced him to rebuild not just his physical abilities, but his emotional, mental, and spiritual foundation from the ground up.

Together, Luke and Arkadi unpack the cycles of burnout, the anxiety loop entrepreneurs find themselves in, dopamine addiction, phone dependency, emotional regulation, and why rock bottom is often the beginning, not the end. They explore mindfulness as survival, spirituality as awareness, and the...

In this raw and honest solo episode, Luke opens up about what’s really been happening behind the scenes, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. After experiencing a panic attack and a period of intense self-reflection, Luke dives deep into what he now calls the Productivity Happiness Paradox: the trap of endlessly trying to achieve more in hopes of finally feeling “good enough.”

Luke shares how comparing himself to others, chasing metrics, and pushing productivity to the extreme pulled him away from the life he actually wants… and how he’s finally redefining “a good life” on his own terms.

H...

Most people already know what they should do to get healthy, eat better, move more, sleep more, but few actually do it. Why?

In this powerful episode of Curious AF, Luke sits down with fitness coach Josh Wood, founder of Strong for Life, to uncover why lasting change is not about motivation or willpower. It is about identity, habits, and environment.

Josh shares his journey from mixed martial arts to holistic coaching, and how his philosophy of “strong for life” helps everyday people build strength that goes far beyond the gym. He and Luke break down...

What if the real problem has nothing to do with food at all?

In this eye opening episode, accredited practising dietitian Mattea Palombo reveals why most people do not need another diet. They need to understand the mindset, emotions and beliefs that drive their eating habits in the first place. Mattea breaks down the truth about fad diets, intuitive eating, emotional eating, gut health, calorie counting, and the difference between weight and health.

She and Luke dive deep into the patterns that keep people stuck, from stress eating and restrictive food rules to obsessing over...

In this raw and honest solo episode, host Luke Biermann opens up about hitting a wall, a full-blown panic attack after years of pushing through burnout.

Luke shares what led to it, the warning signs he ignored, and what it’s teaching him about success, self-worth, and slowing down. This isn’t another “grind harder” story, it’s a vulnerable look at what happens when drive, ambition, and external validation take over your wellbeing.

He also explores the emotional and physical signs of burnout, the dangerous mindset of “just push through it,” and why self-care is not selfish...

What if your thoughts aren’t really yours?

In this powerful episode, Luke sits down with transformational coach and author Cindy Koehler to explore the hidden patterns that shape who we are, and how to break free from them. Cindy shares how most of us are unconsciously replaying the same 90% of thoughts every day, and why true transformation requires more than discipline, it demands an identity shift.

Drawing on 40 years of meditation, neuroscience, and coaching, Cindy explains how to rewire your mind, redefine success, and create lasting change in how you think, feel, and live.

What if the hardest part of leadership isn’t managing people, but understanding yourself?

In this episode of the Curious AF Podcast, Luke sits down with leadership and performance coach Neil for a powerful conversation about self-awareness, trust, and what it really means to lead. From professional sport to business, Neil shares the lessons he’s learned about connection, courage, and knowing who you are before trying to guide anyone else.

He opens up about burnout, fatherhood, and the moment everything changed, when he realised that leadership isn’t about control, it’s about clarity, consiste...

What if the biggest thing holding you back isn’t external, but your own opinion of yourself? In this thought-provoking episode, Luke sits down with Jaemin Frazer to explore the deep roots of insecurity, how it quietly drives achievement, and why many high performers eventually hit a wall of burnout and unhappiness.

Jaemin breaks down how most of our limiting beliefs are formed before the age of seven, why insecurity is really a fear of being seen, and how healing it can help us move from striving to alignment.

They also unpack the fear of lo...

What does it really mean to belong, in our workplaces, relationships, and within ourselves? In this powerful conversation, Luke sits down with Rana Hussain, inclusion and leadership expert and founder of Good Human, to explore the deep connection between belonging, authenticity, and performance.

They unpack how cultural intelligence and psychological safety shape strong teams, why accountability and empathy can coexist, and how rituals and human connection drive true performance. Rana also opens up about her personal faith, spirituality, and her evolving relationship with belonging, both internally and in the world around her.

Whether you lead...

In this powerful solo episode, host Luke Biermann opens up about one of the most transformative chapters of his life, 14 months of sobriety.

Luke shares his raw and honest journey of quitting alcohol, from the brutal early months to the profound clarity and strength he discovered along the way. He reflects on how sobriety reshaped his identity, strengthened his marriage, deepened his connection with his children, and reignited his creativity and business success.

This episode also explores the role of fitness, meditation, and psychedelic experiences in his healing process. Luke dives into the stigma around...

In this powerful episode Luke sits down with Daryl Dittmer to unpack a lifetime of lessons on sobriety, self-honesty, and the pursuit of a meaningful life.

Daryl’s story begins with a tough upbringing, an early spiral into alcohol and drugs, and hitting rock bottom as a teenager. Faced with losing his family and his future, he entered recovery at just 18 years old, and that decision changed everything. Over the decades since, Daryl has built a life grounded in sobriety, daily practices, and a relentless commitment to growth.

He shares his philosophy of living through bo...

In this episode, Luke sits down with Shaun Kaesler, founder and race director of Ultra Series Australia. Since 2016, Shaun has been creating ultramarathon adventures across the country, from the first point-to-point 200 miler in the Southern Hemisphere to some of the world’s biggest backyard ultras.

Shaun shares how his own obsession with testing limits, starting with 5Ks and leading to the Tahoe 200 in the US, became the spark for building a thriving ultra running community in Australia. From wildlife encounters and sleep-deprived hallucinations to the quirky traditions that make Delirious 200 so unique, this conversation is packed with st...

In this episode of the Curious AF Podcast, host Luke Biermann sits down with Sabrina Trobak, a counsellor, speaker, and author of Not Good Enough: Understanding Your Core Belief and Anxiety. With years of experience helping individuals uncover the root causes of their struggles, Sabrina brings deep insight into how our core beliefs silently shape the way we think, feel, and live.

At the heart of this conversation is the powerful idea that many of us carry an inner voice whispering “not good enough, not important, not valued.” Sabrina explains how these beliefs often develop in childhood thro...

What if the key to transforming your life lies in understanding the most powerful organ you have, your brain?

In this episode, Luke sits down with George Haymaker, entrepreneur, recovery advocate, and neuroscience educator, to unpack how the brain shapes our habits, addictions, and ultimately, our ability to change.

George shares his raw and powerful story of battling severe addiction, 50 pain pills a day and two bottles of vodka, before turning his life around through recovery and a deep dive into neuroscience. Today, he helps others rewire their brains to overcome destructive patterns, find alignment...

In this thought-provoking episode, Luke sits down with Lincoln Stoller for a deep exploration of psychedelics, altered states, and the transformative power of breaking patterns. They dive into the science and philosophy behind lucid dreaming, hypnosis, and psychedelic experiences, unpacking how these states can disrupt limiting beliefs, reframe trauma, and open the door to lasting change.

Lincoln Stoller shares candid insights on the shortcomings of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, the importance of self-responsibility, and why true transformation requires more than a single breakthrough moment. The conversation weaves through personal stories of risk-taking, cultural lessons from Indigenous and shamanic traditions...

In this deeply honest and expansive episode, Luke sits down with certified psychedelic practitioner and men’s coach Austin West to unpack the hidden roots of addiction, shame, purpose, and transformation.

Austin shares his journey from a high-achieving but numbed-out lifestyle, trading one addiction for another, to a path of purpose, inner alignment, and radical self-acceptance. They talk about the difference between external success and internal fulfillment, how limiting beliefs are programmed from childhood, and why most men are operating from a distorted sense of self.

The conversation also dives into the misunderstood world of ps...

In this deeply reflective episode, Luke sits down with author, teacher, and compassion advocate Gissele Taraba to unpack the layers of conditioning that shape our self-worth, and how to break free from them.

From the relentless pressure to achieve, to the silent scripts we absorb in childhood, this conversation dives into what it truly means to feel worthy, loved, and enough, just as we are. Gissele shares powerful insights from her book Reimagining Work, as well as her upcoming documentary on how compassion can transform even the most extreme conflict.

They explore the ways we...

In this raw and powerful episode, Luke sits down with Dennis Espiritu, the man behind @runthatrehab, to unpack a life once ruled by heroin, crime, and prison, and how he turned it all around.

Dennis shares openly about growing up feeling isolated, the lure of belonging that led to drugs and street life, and the harsh realities of addiction and jail time. He speaks candidly about stabbing someone, battling withdrawal, the loop of detox attempts, and what finally made rehab stick after 25 years.

But this is also a story about redemption, structure, and self-worth. Dennis...

In this powerful episode, Luke sits down with former SWAT negotiator, motivational speaker, and author Terry Tucker to explore the hard-earned wisdom that has guided him through cancer, career transitions, and the challenge of redefining success.

Terry shares the four core truths he lives by, principles born not from theory but from lived experience. He unpacks what it means to truly control your mind, how embracing pain builds resilience, and why a life of service brings lasting significance. From powerful stories about Navy pilots and concentration camps to personal lessons in grit and vulnerability, Terry brings depth...

In this episode of the Curious AF Podcast, Luke sits down Dr Bruno Roque Cignacco  international business consultant and author of The Art of Compassionate Business. Bruno shares how his decades in traditional business strategy led him to a powerful realisation, people-first companies outperform the rest.

They dive into the practical ways leaders can build a more human workplace, think generosity, gratitude, forgiveness, and trust, and how these values can drive real business outcomes like profit, loyalty, and team performance. From handling appraisals and tough conversations to letting go of micromanagement, Bruno unpacks how to embed compassion i...

In this episode, Juen Phie shares his extensive experience in the business world, starting with his early days studying and working in accounting, to his adventures and challenges in Malaysia. Juen recounts his attempt to establish a Boost Juice-like business in Malaysia, subsequent sales roles, and a mentor-mentee relationship that influenced his business approach. He dives into the importance of sales skills and the value of learning from failures. Juen discusses his journey back to Australia, starting his own accounting firm, and the transformative impact of outsourcing work to the Philippines. He elaborates on the cultural nuances and recruitment...

In this episode, Tyson Pratt shares what led him to step away from the day-to-day of running his business and take his family on a 12-month road trip around Australia.

He talks about the challenges of preparing to leave, the mental shift it took to truly switch off, and the unexpected clarity that came from slowing down. From juggling business responsibilities to being fully present as a dad, Tyson’s story is a powerful reminder of what matters most and how easy it is to lose sight of it when you’re deep in the hustle.

If...

In this deep and refreshingly honest conversation, Luke sits down with business coach, entrepreneur, and performance strategist Mike Scott to explore the power of self-awareness, identity, and discipline. They unpack why self-care is not indulgent but essential for showing up for the people you love, and how fundamental habits like sleep, movement, and mindfulness change everything.

Mike opens up about living with anxiety, navigating risk, the emotional cost of entrepreneurship, and the shift from performance for status to performance for presence. Luke shares his own journey with sobriety, stress, and fatherhood, and together they dissect the difference...

In this deeply honest and emotional episode, Luke sits down with Tyson for a raw conversation about addiction, masculinity, trauma, and the road to recovery. Tyson opens up about his struggles with shame, substance abuse, and self-loathing—and how hitting rock bottom forced him to take full accountability and choose a new path.

They unpack what it means to be a man in a world that doesn’t encourage vulnerability, how childhood wounds shape our adult decisions, and the power of honest self-reflection in healing. Tyson doesn’t hold back. This is a conversation about doing the real h...

In this deeply human and wide-ranging conversation, Luke sits down with Brian Njuguna to explore his incredible journey—from growing up in Kenya to practicing law in remote South Australia, and eventually founding one of the country’s most innovative mental health practices.

Brian shares stories of sleeping in creek beds to represent Aboriginal clients, unpacking systemic injustices, and learning the hard way how business success can pull you away from the very reasons you started. They dive into purpose, burnout, fatherhood, radicalisation prevention, VR therapy, and why Western culture might be getting happiness all wrong.

Th...

Guest: Jess Peil, a multi-time ultra marathon runner, endurance athlete, and passionate advocate for Bravehearts. She is best known for completing Triple 7—seven marathons in seven states in seven days, seven years in a row, using each run as a platform to raise funds and awareness for child protection. With over $300,000 raised to date, Jess combines her love for long-distance running with a mission to make a lasting impact. Whether she’s tackling a 100-mile race or rallying community support, Jess leads with grit, heart, and purpose.

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mech...

Guest: Trevor Keen, an Entrepreneur, Founder & CEO of Conscious Healthcare SA. From scaling businesses to mastering work-life balance, Trevor shares insights on leadership, ambition, and taking six weeks off while his company thrived.  

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mechanical Seal Engineering Pty Ltd, Councillor of Pump Industry Australia, Forum Chair of Entrepreneurs Organisation Adelaide, and Founder of Hard Stuff Podcast

Navigating Meaning and Purpose: A Conversation with Entrepreneur Trevor Keen - In this episode of the Hard Stuff Podcast, host Luke Biermann has an in-depth conversation with Trevor Keen, founder and CEO o...

Guest:  Kylie Kinsella, a Managing Director of Regent Holdings and the President of Pump Industry Australia, leading multiple companies with a strong vision for industry innovation and growth. With a wealth of experience in leadership and business strategy, she is a driving force in the sector. 

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mechanical Seal Engineering Pty Ltd, Councillor of Pump Industry Australia, Forum Chair of Entrepreneurs Organisation Adelaide, and Founder of Hard Stuff Podcast

In this episode of the Hard Stuff Podcast, Luke interviews Kylie Kinsella, Group Managing Director of Regent Ho...

Guest: Linh Podetti, Founder & CEO of Outsourcing Angel, Host of EO Business Podcast, Versatile Entrepreneur, Speaker, Presenter, Mentor, and Author. 

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mechanical Seal Engineering Pty Ltd, Councillor of Pump Industry Australia, Forum Chair of Entrepreneurs Organisation Adelaide, and Founder of Hard Stuff Podcast

In this episode of the Hard Stuff Podcast, host Luke Biermann chats with Linh Podetti, a versatile entrepreneur, podcaster, and outsourcing expert. Linh shares her profound and inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from starting a nail polish business in 2009 to founding Outsourcing Angel, a company p...

Guest: Googzy Thorpe, an ultra-runner, mental health advocate, and adventure seeker who completed the unimaginable—7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days.

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mechanical Seal Engineering Pty Ltd, Councillor of Pump Industry Australia, Forum Chair of Entrepreneurs Organisation Adelaide, and Founder of Hard Stuff Podcast

Support Googzy’s mission, he's fundraising for Black Dog Institute to help improve mental health support for those who need it most.

🔗 Donate here: https://tinyurl.com/4n7da8xd

In this episode of Hard...

Guest: Ryan Jones, Founder & CEO at Refuel Creative, Digital Adelaide Organizer, EO Adelaide Board Member, Speaker, Marketer, and Digital Technology Specialist

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mechanical Seal Engineering Pty Ltd, Councillor of Pump Industry Australia, Forum Chair of Entrepreneurs Organisation Adelaide, and Founder of Hard Stuff Podcast

Confronting Darkness, Global Lobsters, and Building a Business from the Ground Up - In this episode of The Hard Stuff Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Jones, founder & CEO of Refuel Creative, to explore the real, unfiltered struggles of entrepreneurship. Ryan shares his raw...

Guest: Greg Fell, a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of clinical practice experience. He provides therapeutic psychology services for adults and older adolescents and has experience working with diverse and vulnerable clients.

Greg consults on a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, anger management, grief and loss, trauma and PTSD, addictions, and phobias, amongst other psychological complaints. He assists clients in line with their individual circumstances to develop long-term strategies with the aim of working towards and maintaining mental health and well-being. Depending on each client’s needs, these can include stress management, pr...

Guest: Evan Williams, an adventurous entrepreneur dedicated to bold pursuits, family, and living a fulfilling life

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mechanical Seal Engineering Pty Ltd, Councillor of Pump Industry Australia, Forum Chair of Entrepreneurs Organisation Adelaide, and Founder of Hard Stuff Podcast

The Call to Adventure: Evan Williams is an adventurer, entrepreneur, and devoted family man with a passion for living life to the fullest. Having transitioned from running a demanding events business to focusing on lifestyle-driven goals, Evan seeks meaningful adventures and experiences, such as kayaking...

Guest: Shaun Bennett, An experienced ultra-runner and endurance athlete known for his resilience, dedication, and ability to balance intense training with work and family life.

Host: Luke Biermann

Busselton Ironman Recap: In this episode of the Hard Stuff Podcast, host Luke Biermann discusses his Busselton Ironman experience with his friend and ultra runner Shaun Bennett. Recorded two weeks after the event, the conversation reflects on Luke's preparation, the challenges faced during the race, and the unexpected setbacks post-Ironman, such as severe shingles and food poisoning. They delve into the...

Guest: Sian Williams, Founder & CEO of Here2Home, Owner of GRIT Consulting Firm, Member Engagement Chair for Entrepreneur’s Organisation and Incoming President

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mechanical Seal Engineering Pty Ltd, Councillor of Pump Industry Australia, Forum Chair of Entrepreneurs Organisation Adelaide, and Founder of Hard Stuff Podcast

Entrepreneurship and Mental Health: In this episode of Hard Stuff, Luke Biermann sits down with Sian Williams, a successful entrepreneur and friend, to discuss the challenges and triumphs of building a business, mental health struggles, and personal growth. Sian shares her journey from unexpectedly gr...

Guest: Shaun Bennett, An experienced ultra-runner and endurance athlete known for his resilience, dedication, and ability to balance intense training with work and family life.

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mechanical Seal Engineering Pty Ltd, Councillor of Pump Industry Australia, Forum Chair of Entrepreneurs Organisation Adelaide, and Founder of Hard Stuff Podcast

Ultra Running Journey: In the first episode of the Hard Stuff podcast, I invite friend Shaun Bennett, an avid ultra runner, business owner, and family man. They discuss the challenges and joys of ultra running, the initial struggles, motivations, and the inspiration...

Guest: Ricky Chau, Managing director of Taste Studios and Co-founder of BYO Foods

Host: Luke Biermann, Managing Director of Mechanical Seal Engineering Pty Ltd, Councillor of Pump Industry Australia, Forum Chair of Entrepreneurs Organisation Adelaide, and Founder of Hard Stuff Podcast

Navigating Entrepreneurship: Challenges, Exits, and Growth: Join host Luke on The Hard Stuff Podcast as he converses with serial entrepreneur Ricky Chau about his entrepreneurial journey. This episode uncovers the masterful navigation through early business challenges like faulty suppliers and partnership dynamics. Key insights are provided on strategies for business...