Marion Scrymgour: Tiwi woman, trailblazing parliamentarian and lifelong advocate for Aboriginal communities.

Marion is Australia’s first Aboriginal woman government minister and the first Indigenous person to lead an Australian government, before entering federal parliament as the Member for Lingiari.

Growing up in Darwin as one of 12 children, Marion learned early about family, resilience and standing her ground. Her father, a member of the Stolen Generations, instilled in his children the value of hard work and education, while her mother gave them a deep connection to Tiwi culture, language and community.

In a candid conversation, Marion reflects on her parents’ complicated legacy, the importance of kindness and family, and the lessons she learned from making mistakes and admitting when she got things wrong. She also discusses challenging bad policy, bringing divided communities together, dealing with racism and criticism, and why listening remains at the heart of good leadership.

Former Commanding Officer of the SAS Ben Pronk joins me to talk about his new book ‘We’re All Going to Die’. Our chat covers stoicism, epicureanism, absurdism, running, painting, margaritas and picking up dog poo.

This is Ben’s second appearance on the podcast.

For our last conversation, check out Episode 76: ‘Ben Pronk on SAS leadership, elite fitness and why specialisation is for insects.’ https://goodlifepodcast.podbean.com/e/76-ben-pronk-on-sas-leadership-elite-fitness-and-why-specialisation-is-for-insects/

What if ageing well isn’t about stopping cognitive decline, but helping our brains become more adaptable and resilient?

In this episode, I chat with physician, broadcaster and bestselling author Dr Norman Swan about his new book, The Brain Cliff.

Norman also reflects on more than four decades communicating health and medical science to Australians through the ABC, including The Health Report, What’s That Rash?, 7.30 and Four Corners.

Recorded 31 August 2026, Cultural Centre Kambri ANU