Real Stories. Raw Lessons. Timeless Wisdom.
What I Wish I Knew at 30 is the podcast that bridges generations — where host Fran Harper, entrepreneur, coach, and storyteller, invites guests from the worlds of food, business, sport, and travel to share the truths, turning points, and lessons they wish they’d known earlier in life.
Born from years of heart-to-heart conversations with young people, this show captures the wisdom, resilience, and humour of those who’ve lived, learned, and now want to give back. Each episode is a deep dive into mindset, purpose, growth, and human connection — because the insights of one generation should inspire the next.
If you love authentic conversations that make you reflect, laugh, and rethink what really matters at every age, this is your invitation to learn from experience, not just time.
🎧 Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube — and start discovering what you wish you knew at 30.
Real Stories. Raw Lessons. Timeless Wisdom.
What I Wish I Knew at 30 is the podcast that bridges generations — where host Fran Harper, entrepreneur, coach, and storyteller, invites guests from the worlds of food, business, sport, and travel to share the truths, turning points, and lessons they wish they’d known earlier in life.
Born from years of heart-to-heart conversations with young people, this show captures the wisdom, resilience, and humour of those who’ve lived, learned, and now want to give back. Each episode is a deep dive into mindset, purpose, growth, and human connection — because the insights of one generation should inspire the next.
If you love authentic conversations that make you reflect, laugh, and rethink what really matters at every age, this is your invitation to learn from experience, not just time.
🎧 Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube — and start discovering what you wish you knew at 30.
Discover how filmmaker and charity CEO Donna Lyon transformed trauma, addiction, and adversity into a life of purpose, creativity, and empowerment. In this compelling episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, host Fran Harper dives into Donna’s journey from “surviving” to “leading,” and how her organisation Left Right Hook helps survivors heal through storytelling, movement, and community.
Donna opens up about rebuilding her life after addiction, the power of vulnerability, her faith, and why taking action, before mindset catches up, is the key to long-term transformation. She also explores the challenges facing young professionals today, the impact of trauma on creativity, and why healing is never linear.
In this episode you’ll learn:
• How Donna overcame addiction and rebuilt her life
• Why creativity and movement (like boxing) can support trauma recovery
• The power of vulnerability in leadership and storytelling
• How Left Right Hook empowers survivors of childhood sexual abuse
• Action-based mindset shifts that help overcome inertia
• Why personal growth requires courage, discipline, and community
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Who Is Donna Lyon
02:14 Donna at 30: Life in Turmoil
06:48 Hitting Rock Bottom & Seeking Help
10:26 The Five-Year Journey Through Recovery
13:45 “You Don’t Change Your Thinking by Thinking”
16:20 Finding Purpose Through Filmmaking & Storytelling
20:55 The Birth of Left Right Hook
25:12 Vulnerability as a Superpower
28:36 Creativity, Movement, and Multimodal Healing
31:58 The Realities Young Professionals Face Today
35:42 Leading with Compassion & Lived Experience
39:07 From Pain to Purpose
42:18 What Donna Wishes She Knew at 30
45:01 Final Takeaways & Closing Notes
Connect & Resources:
Guest: Donna Lyon, Ph.D. | Producer | Researcher | Survivor | Boxer | Founder | CEO
Website: https://leftwritehook.org/our-story
Host: Fran Harper | Head of Sales & Marketing - Global Paramount 21 Ltd - Podcast Host What I Wish I knew at 30
Website: https://www.franharpercoaching.com/podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what
YouTube: / @whatiwishiknewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknew
If this helped you:
Like đź‘Ť, Comment with your takeaway, and Subscribe for new episodes.
#DonnaLyon #LeftRightHook #TraumaRecovery #ResilienceJourney #HealingThroughCreativity #EmpowermentStories #MentalHealthAwareness #StorytellingForChange #PersonalGrowthJourney #OvercomingAdversity #LeadershipAndHealing #WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #FranHarperCoaching
What does it take to turn your life around after hitting rock bottom? In this episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, Fran Harper interviews Robert Theodoridis, a transformative entrepreneur who went from prison to building thriving businesses.
Rob shares his real-life lessons on resilience, mindset, personal growth, and overcoming adversity, offering actionable advice for anyone striving to achieve their dreams despite life’s challenges.
Key Topics Covered:
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Rob's Journey
02:09 Reflections on Turning 30
06:46 Dreams and Expectations
10:02 Lessons on Trust and Relationships
12:45 Life's Curveballs: Incarceration and Resilience
18:36 The Hardships of Prison Life
23:17 Advice to My Younger Self
26:49 Life Lessons from the Past
28:30 The Importance of Impact and Memory
31:03 Navigating Modern Challenges for Youth
34:28 Mindset Shifts for Success
39:19 The FOTOS Method: Focusing on What Matters
40:40 The Bus Test: Ensuring Business Continuity
42:59 Reflection and Living with Purpose
43:12 Quickfire Fun Questions
Takeaways & Conclusions:
Keywords & Phrases:
resilience, entrepreneurship, mindset, personal growth, mentorship, overcoming adversity, life lessons, success, self-belief, transformation
Connect & Resources:
Guest: Rob Theodoridis | Speaker | Australian Business Champion | Co-Founder of RISE TO GREATNESS & Sydney Electrical Contractors | Author of VELOCITY
Host: Fran Harper | Head of Sales & Marketing - Global Paramount 21 Ltd - Podcast Host What I Wish I knew at 30
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what
YouTube: / @whatiwishiknewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79 LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknew
If this helped you:
Like đź‘Ť, Comment with your takeaway, and Subscribe for new episodes.
#Resilience#Entrepreneurship#MindsetMatters#PersonalGrowth#OvercomingAdversity#LifeLessons#SelfBelief#TransformationJourney#SuccessMindset#Mentorship#FromPrisonToSuccess#EntrepreneurMindset#MotivationForSuccess#MindsetShift
In this inspiring episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, host Fran Harper sits down with Venessa Barnes, a respected voice in the food industry whose career has spanned from the kitchen to corporate strategy.
Venessa opens up about her journey from being a chef to becoming a strategic leader, the challenges she faced during COVID-19, and her personal battle with breast cancer at just 32. She also shares how AI and digital transformation are reshaping the food and hospitality industries, and how resilience, relationships, and authenticity helped her redefine success.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
🎧 Key Questions Discussed:
What did life look like for you at 30?
How did your cancer journey change your approach to leadership and life?
What role does AI play in shaping the future of your industry?
What advice would you give your younger self about money, growth, and resilience?
✨ Main Takeaways:
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Vanessa Barnes
02:53 Vanessa's Journey at 30
05:42 The Impact of COVID on the Food Industry
08:59 Personal Challenges and Growth
12:05 Lessons from Adversity
14:42 Advice to My Younger Self
22:25 Respecting Money and Life Lessons
27:54 Balancing Career and Family Life
30:20 Navigating the Impact of AI on Business
34:20 The Power of Relationships
42:09 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
🔑 Keywords: Vanessa Barnes, food industry, COVID-19, breast cancer, personal growth, resilience, entrepreneurship, AI, leadership, relationships, authenticity, women in business
đź“Ś Follow the Show:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIWishIKnewat30
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franharper/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@franharpercoaching?lang=en
Guest - Chef Venessa Barnes
Host - Fran Harper
If this helped you:
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#VenessaBarnes #WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #FranHarper #Podcast #FoodIndustry #Leadership #Resilience #BreastCancerSurvivor #PersonalGrowth #AIandFutureOfWork #WomenInBusiness #AuthenticLeadership #EntrepreneurMindset #CareerGrowth #InspiringStories
Chef Sarah Maric | Chef, Educator, and Culinary Leader - From Royal Kitchens to Resilience
In this episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, Sarah Maric, President Emeritus of the Australian Institute of Technical Chefs reveals the real lessons behind Courage, Burnout & Redefining Success.
From cooking for royalty to leading some of Australia’s most demanding kitchens, and now inspiring the next generation of chefs. Chef Sarah Maric’s story is one of resilience, courage, and transformation.
Takeaways:
Chapters:
00:12 Intro .mp4
00:15 Chef Sarah Marrick: A Culinary Journey
03:45 The Challenges of Leadership in the Kitchen
09:56 Winging It: The Reality of Life at 30
13:39 Unexpected Paths: From England to Australia
17:37 Health Lessons: The Cost of Hard Work
19:21 Life's Curveballs: Family and Resilience
20:32 Emotional Insecurity and Resilience
24:35 Navigating Personal Challenges and Growth
27:00 Advice to Younger Self: Mentorship and Growth
30:18 The Impact of Digitization on Human Connection
32:57 The Evolving Chef Culture and Mentorship
36:29 Quickfire Reflections and Life Lessons
43:09 Outro (1).mp4
Join Fran Harper as she and Sarah dive deep into the lessons learned from a life spent balancing ambition, growth, and well-being. Whether you’re a chef, leader, or lifelong learner, this episode will leave you inspired to rise again, no matter where you are in your journey.
🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of courage and transformation.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what
YouTube: / @whatiwishiknewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79 LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknew
Guest - Chef Sarah Maric
Host - Fran Harper
If this helped you: Like đź‘Ť, Comment with your takeaway, and Subscribe for new episodes.
#ChefSarahMaric #FranHarperPodcast #WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #CulinaryJourney #Resilience #WomenInLeadership #CourageAndGrowth #LifeLessons #HospitalityIndustry #LeadershipPodcast #MotivationalPodcast
Chef Glenn Flood - The Heat Beyond the Kitchen: Lessons on Leadership and Burnout
In this episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, host Fran Harper chats with Chef Glenn Flood, culinary leader, mentor, and coach, as he reveals the real lessons behind leadership, burnout, and self-discovery.
From high-pressure kitchens to mentoring future leaders, Glenn shares how emotional regulation, gratitude, and self-reflection shaped his success. His story is a masterclass in balance, empathy, and purpose, whether you’re in hospitality or any fast-paced field.
Takeaways:
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Glenn Flood: A Culinary Leader
02:29 Reflecting on Career Milestones at 30
05:58 Navigating Challenges in the Culinary Industry
08:33 Dreams and Aspirations at 30
11:49 Life's Unexpected Turns and Experiences
15:05 Lessons Learned: The Importance of Balance
20:03 Mentorship and Emotional Regulation in the Kitchen
21:49 Navigating Burnout and Imposter Syndrome
27:10 The Power of Coaching and Mentorship
29:36 Leadership in Hospitality: Bridging the Gap
31:30 Key Advice for Emerging Leaders
33:15 The Impact of Technology on Young Professionals
36:58 Confidence Counts: The Best Advice Received
42:38 Reflecting on Your Journey
🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts and discover how confidence, gratitude, and self-awareness can transform your leadership journey.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIWishIKnewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknew
Guest - Chef Glenn Flood
Host - Fran Harper
If this helped you:
Like đź‘Ť, Comment with your takeaway, and Subscribe for new episodes.
#LeadershipPodcast #GlennFlood #WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #FranHarperCoaching #CulinaryLeadership #BurnoutRecovery #MindsetForLeaders #ProfessionalGrowth #EmotionalIntelligence #HospitalityIndustry #MentorshipMatters #WorkLifeBalance #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowthJourney
In this inspiring episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, host Fran Harper sits down with Philip Wilkinson OBE, one of the most influential figures in the global food and agricultural industry.
With over four decades of leadership across the dairy and poultry sectors, Philip shares his hard-won wisdom, from building relationships that last, to making fast, confident decisions that drive success.
He reflects on his career transformation, from humble beginnings in the dairy industry to leading billion-pound food operations and receiving his OBE for services to the Dairy Industry. Philip also opens up about his philosophy on resilience, integrity, and never settling for “no” unless it’s the right answer.
🎧 Tune in to learn how determination, adaptability, and authenticity can shape not only your career but your entire outlook on life.
Key Takeaways:
Chapters
00:00 - Intro ( music )
00:14 Introduction to Philip Wilkinson
03:09 Philip's Early Career and Challenges
07:53 Lessons Learned and Mentorship
14:17 Insights on the Poultry Industry
21:11 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
29:31 Reflecting on Past Mistakes
37:30 Building a Resilient Business
43:39 The Role of Technology
46:18 Navigating Industry Regulations
51:46 Future Vision and Sustainability
55:00 Closing Thoughts and Thank You
01:15:41 Outro ( music )
🎧 Tune in to learn how determination, adaptability, and authenticity can shape not only your career but your entire outlook on life.
đź”— Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, & YouTube
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIWishIKnewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79 LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknew
Guest - Philip Wilkinson OBE
Host - Fran Harper
If this helped you: Like đź‘Ť, Comment with your takeaway, and Subscribe for new episodes.
#PhilipWilkinson #LeadershipPodcast #FoodIndustry #Agriculture #CareerAdvice #FranHarper #WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #OBE #BusinessLeadership #PersonalGrowth #Motivation #LifeLessons
Tim Whitehead: Leadership, Resilience, and the Power of Relationships in Business | What I Wish I Knew at 30 Podcast
In this inspiring episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, Fran Harper sits down with Tim Whitehead, a seasoned entrepreneur and hospitality leader with over 40 years of experience in the global food and business industry.
Tim opens up about his career transitions, hard-earned lessons in trust and partnerships, and the importance of authentic relationships in building long-term success. From overcoming setbacks to leading with empathy, Tim shares how communication, self-awareness, and resilience have shaped his personal and professional growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tim Whitehead’s Journey
05:47 Tim’s Career Transition at 30
10:51 Dreams and Aspirations at 30
16:49 Lessons Learned from Trust and Partnerships
21:55 The Importance of Relationships in Business
26:19 Overcoming Adversity and Building Resilience
33:49 Advice to My 30-Year-Old Self
34:09 Building Positive Relationships
36:30 Handling Pressure and Self-Awareness
38:18 The Importance of Communication
40:29 Navigating Modern Challenges
46:44 The Value of Face-to-Face Interactions
47:46 Lessons from Mentorship
48:49 Quickfire Insights and Reflections
🎙 About the Podcast:
What I Wish I Knew at 30 is hosted by Fran Harper, where inspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers share the lessons that shaped their journeys, and what they wish they’d known sooner.
👉 Tune in now to hear Tim’s story and discover valuable lessons on leadership, resilience, and the power of relationships. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations!
đź”— Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, & YouTube
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what
YouTube: / @whatiwishiknewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknew
Guest - Tim Whitehead
Host - Fran Harper
If this helped you: Like đź‘Ť, Comment with your takeaway, and Subscribe for new episodes.
#TimWhitehead #WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #FranHarper #LeadershipPodcast #BusinessGrowth #Resilience #EntrepreneurMindset #TrustAndPartnerships #CareerAdvice #HospitalityIndustry #ProfessionalGrowth
Chef Samuel Burke | From Kitchen to Corporate: Resilience, Mentorship & Life Lessons in the Culinary World
In this inspiring episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, Chef Samuel Burke takes us through his remarkable culinary journey, from working in kitchens to leading operations in the Australian meat industry.
Sam opens up about burnout, resilience, and the importance of work-life balance in a demanding profession. He shares how mentorship, passion, and continuous learning shaped his career and why family and purpose matter more than accolades.
Whether you’re an aspiring chef, entrepreneur, or professional seeking direction, this episode will leave you motivated to pursue your goals with heart and persistence.
Key Takeaways:
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Chef Samuel Burke
03:19 Transitioning from Kitchen to Operations
10:18 Dreams and Aspirations at 30
16:42 Reflections on Life Lessons
24:02 Navigating Career Challenges
30:51 The Importance of Relationships in the Culinary World
36:49 Advice to My Younger Self
43:26 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
53:46 Intro & Outro (1).mp4
🎧 Tune in now to uncover timeless lessons about leadership, sustainability, and personal growth from one of Australia’s most respected culinary figures.
đź”— Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, & YouTube
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIWishIKnewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknew
Guest - Chef Samuel Burke
Host - Fran Harper
If this helped you: Like đź‘Ť, Comment with your takeaway, and Subscribe for new episodes.
#ChefSamuelBurke #CulinaryJourney #LifeLessons #Resilience #Mentorship #WorkLifeBalance #FoodIndustry #ProfessionalGrowth #Leadership #WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #FranHarperPodcast
"Lowina Blackman on IVF, Holistic Crypto Coach, Founder of Crypto Magic, Mindset Shifts, 3D vs 5D living, self-care, personal growth, Bitcoin investing, life lessons at 30 | What I Wish I Knew at 30 Podcast"
In this episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, host Fran Harper sits down with Lowina Blackman, holistic crypto coach and founder of Crypto Magic, to unpack her powerful journey from corporate fashion to financial freedom and self-discovery.
At 30, Lowina believed she had life figured out, but burnout, a difficult IVF journey, and people-pleasing forced her to re-evaluate everything. Today, she shares the lessons that helped her redefine success: choosing authenticity, embracing self-care, and shifting from a 3D mindset to a 5D perspective.
Key takeaways:
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Lowina Blackman and Her Journey
01:31 Reflections on Life at 30
03:33 Lessons Learned: Authenticity and Career Choices
04:44 Navigating Life's Curveballs: Burnout and IVF Journey
09:16 Advice to My Younger Self: Living Authentically
10:42 Understanding 5D Living and Quantum Physics
16:09 Advice for the Future: Bitcoin and Self-Care
18:50 Challenges for Today's Youth: AI and Evolving Systems
21:00 The Evolving Education Landscape
25:33 Mindset Shifts for Success
30:22 Lessons from the Past
37:00 Embracing Challenges and Choices
39:49 Intro & Outro (1).mp4
Whether you’re navigating burnout, chasing financial freedom, or searching for deeper meaning, Lowina’s wisdom will inspire you to create a life that’s truly yours.
đź”— Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, & YouTube
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what
YouTube: / @whatiwishiknewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknew
Guest - Lowina Blackman
Host - Fran Harper
If this helped you: Like đź‘Ť, Comment with your takeaway, and Subscribe for new episodes
#LowinaBlackman #WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #FranHarper #Podcast #SelfCare #FinancialFreedom #MindsetShift #PersonalGrowth
How do you turn setbacks into success and start living the life you’ve always wanted?
In this episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, host Fran Harper talks with David Patterson, also known as the Bucket List Accountant, about the biggest lessons he learned on his journey of business growth, personal development, and financial planning.
At 30, David believed life would simply fall into place. But after personal loss and missed opportunities, he realized that success requires action, intentional goal-setting, and the courage to follow your passion. Today, he helps others achieve both wealth and fulfillment by aligning business with personal growth.
You’ll learn:
Timestamps
Chapters
00:00 Reflecting on Life at 30
04:19 The Importance of Setting Goals
09:01 The Role of Business in Achieving Dreams
11:20 Lessons from Personal Loss
15:31 Advice to My Younger Self
17:37 Navigating Change in a New World
23:11 The Best Advice Received
28:11 Quickfire Questions and Reflections
37:38 Intro & Outro.mp4
Listen to the podcast:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3Ov1SpyyK9L
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-i-wish-i-knew-at-30/id1834149833
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIWishIKnewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknewat30
Guest – David Patterson
Host – Fran Harper
If this episode resonated, follow/subscribe, drop a rating & review, and share it with someone who needs this conversation.
#WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #DavidPatterson #BucketListAccountant #LifeLessons #BusinessGoals #PersonalGrowth #OvercomingFear #SuccessMindset #GoalSetting #Entrepreneurship #Mentorship #FinancialPlanning #LeadershipPodcast
At 30, Libby Cook-Black thought she’d chosen security. One year later, she left a high-status government role to build The Female Co, empowering women and girls in regional and remote communities. In this conversation, Libby (Zenath Kes, Erub Island) shares powerful lessons on identity, resilience, culture, leadership, and aligning work with values—including what elite sport taught her about business and how to engage meaningfully with First Nations communities.
You’ll learn
Timestamps
00:00 Intro & Libby’s story
03:40 Security vs alignment at 30
06:30 Leaving a government role for purpose
12:20 Sport → business mindset
15:40 First Nations leadership & inclusion
27:05 Injury, identity & reinvention
33:50 Advice to her 30-year-old self
41:50 Best & worst advice
52:45 Final takeaway
Guest
Libby Cook-Black — Founder & MD, The Female Co | Former Australian Jillaroo, QLD Maroon, Indigenous All-Stars, QLD Rugby 7s Red | Indigenous Marathon Project graduate | Cairns Women of the Year (HC), CBWC Volunteer of the Year
Listen to the podcast:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1DgzhgbR0Zq3Ov1SpyyK9L
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-i-wish-i-knew-at-30/id1834149833
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIWishIKnewat30
Follow the show What I Wish I Knew at 30:
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/wiwikat30/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fran.harper.79
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/whatiwishiknewat30
Guest – Libby Cook-Black
Host – Fran Harper
If this episode resonated, follow/subscribe, drop a rating & review, and share it with someone who needs this conversation.
#WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #LibbyCookBlack #FirstNations #TorresStrait #WomenInSport #Leadership #Resilience #CareerChange #Purpose #TheFemaleCo #RugbySevens #Jillaroos
“Chef Adam Moore on Resilience, Mental Health & Life Lessons | What I Wish I Knew at 30 Podcast”
In this episode of What I Wish I Knew at 30, Fran Harper sits down with Chef Adam Moore, a globally recognized culinary innovator, entrepreneur, and mentor. Adam opens up about his journey through the culinary world and beyond, sharing personal stories of resilience, mental health awareness, and the importance of mentorship and self-love. Adam, shares his traumatic experience of being in close proximity to centre of the disaster and the awful
From navigating unexpected challenges to balancing parenthood, career, and personal growth, Adam offers powerful lessons that inspire listeners to embrace change, learn from setbacks, and keep growing.
Key takeaways:
Listen now for raw insights, inspiration, and life lessons that will help you face challenges with strength and confidence.
#WhatIWishIKnewAt30 #FranHarperPodcast #ChefAdamMoore #Resilience #MentalHealth #LifeLessons#mental health and resilience #culinary innovation and life lessons#mentorship stories#personal growth and self-love #overcoming challenges podcast #inspiration podcast 2025 #resilience in life and career
In this engaging conversation, Sarah Green shares her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the lessons learned from her experiences. Reflecting on her life at 30, she discusses the importance of understanding one's needs, the challenges of balancing personal and professional life, and the significance of curiosity and kindness towards oneself. Sarah emphasizes the value of communication, the impact of societal expectations on women, and the necessity of rest in achieving personal well-being. Through quickfire questions, she offers insights into her growth and the mindset shifts that have shaped her approach to success.
In this episode, Chef John McFadden shares his journey through the culinary world, reflecting on the lessons learned from personal and professional challenges. He discusses the importance of empathy in leadership, the impact of technology on careers, and the value of mentorship. John also recounts his experiences competing in world championships and emphasizes the significance of teamwork and preparation in achieving success. Through his story, listeners are encouraged to embrace their struggles, learn from adversity, and never underestimate the impression they make on others.
Join Fran Harper as she sits down with Cheryne Blom, master coach, author, and founder of The Self Mastery Hub. In this insightful episode, Cheryne shares her transformative journey through her 30s, revealing how she overcame personal challenges and embraced authenticity. Discover the power of courage over confidence, the importance of self-awareness, and how life coaching played a pivotal role in her growth. Tune in for inspiring lessons on breaking free from outdated patterns and stepping into your true self.
In this episode, Fran Harper speaks with Mark Field, a seasoned professional in the food and grocery consultancy industry. They explore Mark's journey, reflecting on the lessons learned from his career, the challenges faced, and the wisdom gained over the years.
Mark shares insights on the importance of consistency, personal values, and adapting to the changing landscape of work and life. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology, the significance of customer focus in business, and the advice he would give to his younger self. Listeners are encouraged to take actionable steps in their own lives based on the insights shared.
In this episode, Fran Harper speaks with James Parkes, a former rugby player turned corporate wellbeing advocate. They discuss the lessons learned from James's journey, including the importance of resilience, the value of authenticity, and the challenges faced in both personal and professional life.
James shares insights on navigating change, the significance of mental health, and the necessity of being kind to oneself. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology on modern challenges and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences.
Summary
In this episode of 'What I Wish I Knew at 30', host Fran Harper engages with Marina Brbot, an author and inspirational speaker, to explore the lessons learned from life experiences, particularly around the age of 30. They discuss the pressures of societal expectations, the importance of self-acceptance, and the transformative power of adversity. Marina shares her journey of self-discovery, the impact of her father's death, and the realization that it's never too late to pursue one's dreams.
The conversation emphasizes the significance of being kind to oneself, embracing one's truth, and the courage to say no. Listeners are encouraged to take actionable steps towards their own growth and to remember that their best chapters are still ahead.
In this episode, Fran Harper shares her personal journey of resilience, business challenges, and life lessons learned through adversity. From the unexpected closure of her family business to starting anew with Paramount, Fran reflects on the importance of relationships, self-care, and personal development.
She emphasises that life's toughest moments often lead to the most valuable insights, urging listeners to live with purpose and make conscious choices.
Success leaves clues—but most of us don’t notice them until it’s too late. On What I Wish I Knew at 30, we uncover the lessons people wish they’d learned earlier about business, health, love, and life. Through honest conversations and real stories, you’ll gain wisdom to fast-track your growth, avoid common mistakes, and make choices your future self will thank you for.
Instagram : @wiwikat30
Email : fran@franharpercoaching.com