Relationships Under The Microscope

In this episode, I welcome back Yana Groves, founder and director of Bloomtime Media. Yana is a TV Executive Producer with over 3 decades of experience across radio and television, from the BBC to global formats like MasterChef, Big Brother, The Bachelor, Below Deck Down Under, and The Mole, where her work has always centred on understanding people's internal drivers and motivations. We discuss her philosophy of “running away with the circus” and how her industry often appears glamourous yet is often chaotic and unstable, requiring resilience and awareness to navigate. At the core of Yana's work is the idea that every story, and every person, begins with a “why” and that same pattern plays out in real life. We also discuss how algorithms and the bombardment of information shape our emotions and perceptions, constantly pulling us away from ourselves.

On Relationships Under the Microscope, I speak with Vinko Anthony, author of All In and co-founder of Beau Brummell Introductions about his journey from growing up gay in a traditional Croatian Catholic family to becoming a passionate advocate for emotionally mature, committed love. We explore his personal love story, his experience living openly with HIV and his insights into modern dating culture. At its heart, this conversation goes around what it takes to build lasting intimacy through courage, vulnerability, deep communication, and the daily choice to be all in.

In a world increasingly shaped by uncertainty, polarisation, and collective distress, what does it truly mean to hold onto hope? In this deeply reflective episode, psychotherapist and psychologist Dr. Julian Pascal Saadi explores hope not as naïve optimism, but as a psychological force. Drawing on his clinical experience in adult mental health, he unpacks the delicateness between hope and despair, examining when hope guides us, when it shields us, and how it can be consciously re-found in times of personal and collective upheaval. From intimate relationships to the wider global landscape, this conversation considers hope as an essential life force not as fixed destination, but a dynamic capacity that propels growth, resilience, and the possibility of something new.

Did you know that the way we love is shaped by our hormones? In this episode of Relationships Under the Microscope, my guest Dr. Chris explores the neurochemistry of attraction and attachment, breaking down how dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin influence who we’re drawn to and how we connect. Together, we tackle the push-pull dynamics of anxious and avoidant attachment styles, the importance of emotional safety, routine, and self-awareness, and how asking the right questions early on can reveal true compatibility.

What if love isn’t something we find in another person, but something that deepens as we understand ourselves better? In this episode of Relationships Under the Microscope, I’m joined by Mark Worthington to explore love beyond attraction and romantic ideals. Together, we unpack why attraction is often mistaken for love, how relationships act as mirrors for our inner world, and why self-love is essential for true compatibility. In Mark's latest book, The Truth About Love, he is now available in bookstores near you.

In this episode my guest - Jalal Khan - dentist turned alchemist, shares his journey to finding the healer within. He opens up about how curiosity sparked his transformation, pushing him to question, explore, and challenge his perspectives when it comes to health, wellness, and the human experience. Jalal’s mission is rooted in the belief that the key to serving others lies in constant self-betterment, both for himself and others. He shares how quantum biology, postural alignment, and emotional processing are foundational in his approach to health and wellness. Jalal is deeply passionate about spiritual alchemy: the alignment of mind, body, and soul. He believes that all chronic illness begins with an injury to the soul. To know more about Jalal Khan, visit: https://www.k2calibre.com/

In this episode, we’re joined by highly respected family lawyer Jamie Burreket, who's seen it all when it comes to being in love, out of love, and the role of the law. However, in this episode Jamie shares his insights on turning couple relationships into thriving partnerships. He reveals why early conversations about money and values can save a marriage down the track, and surprisingly why prenups create safety for both partners. To know more or contact Jamie Burreket and Broun Abrahams Burreket Family Lawyers, visit: https://bablaw.com.au/

Being a couples therapist isn’t for everyone, especially during the stressful holiday season as unresolved issues often escalate. January, known as Divorce Month, sees many partners seeking separation advice from lawyers. What's critical to know is that it doesn’t have to be this way. In this episode of Relationships Under the Microscope, we’re joined by Dr. Ray Doktor, a bestselling author and clinical psychologist with 28+ years of experience. Featured in Psychology Today and seen on HBO, Dr. Ray shares his insights to unlock healthier and happier relationships. To know more about Dr. Ray Doktor, visit: https://bit.ly/ray-doktor His book "All It Takes Is One" is available on: https://www.allittakesisonebook.com/ A relationship masterclass for free: https://www.raydoktor.com/RapidRelationshipRescueHome 

My esteemed guest for this episode is Elisabeth Shaw. Elisabeth reveals the evolving nature of modern relationships, commitment, and ethical dilemmas that arise in the couple field. Honored to have Elisabeth join me, as she is highly regarded as CEO of Relationships Australia (NSW), has an extensive journey as a clinical and counselling psychologist with expertise in clinical practice, governance, and professional ethics. And her career spans leadership roles, teaching at top universities, and coaching executives across industries. Elisabeth shares her vast wisdom and skills as we discuss modern relationship challenges, from dealing with dismissive partners to understanding how relationships have shifted over time, and she offers effective and simple strategies to create healthier couple outcomes. Her eye on the ethical dilemmas couples face is eye-opening. To learn more about Elisabeth Shaw and Relationships Australia, visit: https://www.relationshipsnsw.org.au/

Australian's beloved GP - Dr. Ginni Mansberg - dissects hidden dynamics that cause strain to couple relationships, particularly during the holidays in this episode. Ginni is a GP, author, media expert, co-founder of Evidence Skincare (ESK), and menopause expert she uses her extensive experience and wisdom to reveal why couples find themselves struggling physically, mentally and emotionally over the festive season, and how to manage oneself better. To know more about Dr. Ginni Mansberg, visit: https://drginni.com.au/