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Life Changing Choices

The Salvation Army Employment Plus

We all deserve the chance to change our future for the better.
Welcome to Life Changing Choices, brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. In this audio series, we delve into the remarkable journeys of individuals who have faced life’s most challenging obstacles. Our mission is to share the stories of those we’ve encountered, celebrating their triumphs and exploring their paths towards employment.

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12 episodes
Avg 31 min
English

Episodes 12

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#12
March 25 · 23 min
Nick’s Story – From debilitated to company director
Nick says his involvement in a serious motorbike accident was the best and the worst thing to happen to him. Left with an horrific string of injuries, and a slow and painful recovery, Nick knew he was lucky to survive. But he says it also gave him a new perspective on where he’d been going wrong in the past and how, given this second chance, he’d be the husband and father he truly wanted to be. Through grit and perseverance, Nick not only recovered; he reinvented himself. He’s evolved from a reluctant worker to a motivated company director and employer – all while managing the disabilities he’s lived with before and after his accident. Be prepared to be inspired. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode includes mentions of drug use, accident trauma, mental health challenges and serious medical procedures. Need support? Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit Beyond Blue at beyondblue.org.au or The Salvation Army at salvationarmy.org.au. This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#11
March 25 · 39 min
A Survivor’s Story – Finally free of family violence
Family violence is an all too prevalent issue in Australia. It’s often a lot more complicated and nuanced than our images of bruised victims, and coercive control is increasingly being recognised in our courts as an offence. This episode's guest shares her own personal experience with family violence. She tells of how her relationship started, what she endured, what she tolerated, and how she finally found the freedom she and her two young sons desperately needed to flourish. This survivor also shares with us how she’s beginning her own career through the Parent Pathways program to support others affected by family violence. She is the very definition of warrior mother. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode includes mentions of domestic abuse. Need support for yourself or someone you know who may be in danger? Call 1800RESPECT. For an array of social support services visit www.salvationarmy.org.au. This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#10
Dec 17, 2025 · 33 min
Janelle’s Story: Dancing through the darkness
In this episode, Janelle shares the story of how she lost almost 80kg in 12 months. Burdened with postnatal health issues, Janelle quickly saw her weight increase, leading to constant pain and poor mobility. Popular weight loss injections and surgery were expensive and difficult to access, so armed with nothing but a Bluetooth speaker and a dogged determination, Janelle went about changing it all. And while she still has work to do, the journey has helped Janelle to see that she is capable of far more than she would have believed. In a time when the weight of judgement feels heavier than ever, Janelle’s story is proof that sometimes all you need is to dance like no one’s watching. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode includes mentions of domestic abuse. Need support? Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 Visit Beyond Blue at beyondblue.org.au The Salvation Army at salvationarmy.org.au This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#9
Dec 17, 2025 · 29 min
Chloe's Story: Strength in caring
Around 8% of babies in Australia are born premature. Chloe spent a total of 115 days in the neo-natal intensive care unit with all three of her precious children. The experience left her with PTSD, a greater appreciation for nurses, and a desire to establish a new career path centred on caring for children. From becoming a young mum of twins, to managing a family of five while studying and establishing a new career, Chloe shares the ups and downs along the way. In a time when parents are under increasing pressure, Chloe’s story is a reminder that sometimes the curveballs that life throws at us can lead to new opportunities and inspire new ambitions. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode discusses the experiences of having traumatic and premature births. Need support? Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit Beyond Blue at beyondblue.org.au or The Salvation Army at salvationarmy.org.au. This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#8
Oct 13, 2025 · 31 min
Nooria's Story: Finding freedom in a new home
In this episode, Nooria shares her journey of fleeing Afghanistan after the Taliban’s return in 2021, which led to the death of her husband. A law graduate and mother of two, Nooria recounts the threats her family faced, the challenges of resettling in Greece and then Australia, and the support she found through The Salvation Army’s Parent Pathways program. She reflects on rebuilding her life as a single mother, pursuing further education, and writing a book to share the experiences of Afghan women living under oppression. In a time when so many voices are being suppressed, Nooria’s story demonstrates the courage of speaking out. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode discusses the experiences of living through war, and includes mentions of the loss of a spouse and sexual abuse. Need support? Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 Visit Beyond Blue at beyondblue.org.au The Salvation Army at salvationarmy.org.au This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#7
May 30, 2025 · 37 min
Trish's Story: Turning grief into a movement for change
We first met Trish six years ago, when she was enrolled in our parenting program (now known as Parent Pathways). At the time, the mother of seven had just walked away from a toxic relationship, and with the support of her Employment Plus mentor, had created her own business. With her children by her, Trish wasn’t just standing on her own two feet, she was soaring. When we last spoke to her, life was great. And then it wasn’t. With one phone call, Trish’s world crumbled. But in the aftermath of losing her son Alex, Trish found a new purpose. In this episode, she shares with us stories of the great compassion that drove Alex’s need to help others, and how she is carrying on the work that he dedicated his short life to. In a time when there seems to be a growing divide in our communities, Trish and Alex’s story reassures us that compassion still abounds. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode includes mentions of suicide and the loss of a child. Need support? Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 Visit Beyond Blue at beyondblue.org.au The Salvation Army at salvationarmy.org.au - If you need more support, help is available. We've put together a list of resources and services available to help you. Visit our Crisis Support page This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#6
Mar 4, 2025 · 44 min
Caz's Story: Recovering from a troubled relationship
In this episode, we sit down with Caz, who became a mother at a young age and learned how being tethered to the wrong person can dramatically shape your life. This smart woman eventually became a university graduate, and started working for the first time in her late thirties. Join us as Caz shares her inspiring journey of determination as she fought against all that life threw at her. In a time when family violence is perpetuating so much trauma, Caz’s resilience shines a light on the tenacity of a mother’s love. *PLEASE NOTE: Please note that this episode includes references to suicidal thoughts, depression and family violence. Need support? - The Salvation Army provides a range of services across Australia, including addiction rehabilitation, court and prison support, youth services, family violence support, and much more. Visit salvationarmy.org.au- If you need more support, help is available. We've put together a list of resources and services available to help you. Visit our Crisis Support page This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au This audio series is produced by The Incubator, and hosted by Fee Townshend. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#5
Mar 4, 2025 · 24 min
Craig's Story: Fleeing to find a new kind of family
Within Craig’s voice you can hear the generational trauma he has carried across the country in his quest for both freedom from addiction and negative influences. In this episode, we hear how he faced his own mortality, made brave, gutsy calls to go it alone and create a brand-new life for himself. Pleasingly, Craig’s discovered how his search for work has also provided him with a renewed sense of family. In a time when loneliness has become an epidemic, Craig’s new-found connections are life-affirming. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode includes references to drug use, addiction, mental health issues and family trauma. Need support? - The Salvation Army provides a range of services across Australia, including addiction rehabilitation, court and prison support, youth services, family violence support, and much more. Visit salvationarmy.org.au- If you need more support, help is available. We've put together a list of resources and services available to help you. Visit our Crisis Support page This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au This audio series is produced by The Incubator, and hosted by Fee Townshend. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#4
Mar 4, 2025 · 33 min
Jo's Story: Finding happiness later in life
We sat down with Jo, a remarkable and energetic woman who has overcome an emotionally abusive childhood, ongoing challenges in to adulthood, a marriage breakdown, a brush with cancer and is now carving out a new career in her early 60s. Join us as we hear Jo's inspiring journey to finding a job and proving that it’s never too late to find a life you truly love. In a time where older women in Australia increasingly face financial issues, Jo’s story of independence is reassuring. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode includes references to emotional abuse, alcoholism, suicidal thoughts and sexual abuse. Need support? - The Salvation Army provides a range of services across Australia, including addiction rehabilitation, court and prison support, youth services, family violence support, and much more. Visit salvationarmy.org.au- If you need more support, help is available. We've put together a list of resources and services available to help you. Visit our Crisis Support page This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au This audio series is produced by The Incubator, and hosted by Fee Townshend. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#3
Mar 4, 2025 · 36 min
Maryam's Story: Moving on from Middle East conflict
The fear of bomb threats and terrorism were a reality during the childhood of Iranian-born Maryam who reminds us just what a lucky country Australia really is. In this episode, we talk to this highly skilled migrant who fled war-torn Tehran to seek peace and a place to raise children without the traumas that she faced. She has now made Australia home, has embraced the local lifestyle and shares some incredible life lessons for us all. In a time where the absence of peace in the Middle East brings heartache to so many, Maryam’s voice provides some hope. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode discusses experiences of living through war - specifically Middle Eastern conflict - and seeking asylum. Need support? - The Salvation Army provides a range of services across Australia, including addiction rehabilitation, court and prison support, youth services, family violence support, and much more. Visit salvationarmy.org.au- If you need more support, help is available. We've put together a list of resources and services available to help you. Visit our Crisis Support page This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au This audio series is produced by The Incubator, and hosted by Fee Townshend. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#2
Mar 4, 2025 · 45 min
Brandon's Story: Leaving a criminal history behind
Meet Brandon, an articulate and reflective young man who, through a lack of guidance, spent his teenage years embroiled in truancy and eventually crime, which landed him in correctional facilities. Years on, the young father who’s faced the challenges of addiction, grief and self-acceptance tells us how he’s turned his life around, has created a beautiful family unit and is on the path to finding meaningful work. In a time when concern on youth crime is rising, Brandon’s transformation is inspiring. *PLEASE NOTE: This episode includes mentions of addiction, drug use, loss of a sibling, family trauma, and aggressive and criminal behaviour. Need support? - The Salvation Army provides a range of services across Australia, including addiction rehabilitation, court and prison support, youth services, family violence support, and much more. Visit salvationarmy.org.au- If you need more support, help is available. We've put together a list of resources and services available to help you. Visit our Crisis Support page This audio series is brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Learn more about our programs and the support available at employmentplus.com.au This audio series is produced by The Incubator, and hosted by Fee Townshend. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. The Salvation Army Employment Plus acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and waters we have recorded this audio series on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
#1
Mar 4, 2025 · 1 min
INTRODUCING: Life Changing Choices
There are more than 621,000 unemployed people in Australia. Each one has a story to tell against the backdrop of the many struggles we're facing in society. The word ‘unemployed’ conjures up many stereotypes. But in Life Changing Choices, you will meet a group of people who are keen to prove that they are anything but. They are the very definition of resilience and hope. In this new audio series, brought to you by The Salvation Army Employment Plus, we bring you just a handful of the impactful and inspiring stories we witness as we help people with their employment and social challenges every day. Stories of overcoming addiction and the stigma of incarceration. Stories of escaping a warzone, of a child who never knew unconditional, healthy love, and of parents who are determined to carve out a new future for their children. Open your ears and hearts to their journeys, knowing that if you ever need help - we're here for you too.

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