Today’s conversation is one of those deep dives into leadership, resilience, and navigating the complexities of life—whether that’s on the farm, in the boardroom, or out on the footy field.

Joining me is Cameron Schwab, a man who, at just 24, stepped into the CEO role of an elite AFL club, and over the years has learned not only what leadership demands of us but how it shapes us.

Cameron is the real deal—a thinker, a mentor, and someone who’s walked the path of success, failure, and reinvention. Now founder and CEO of designCEO, Cameron leverages his extensive leadership experience in professional sport and business to mentor and support CEOs, senior and emerging leaders, and their organisations across various industry sectors. You can find more information about Cameron and his offerings on his website here.

In this episode, we unpack what it takes to show up as a leader when the pressure’s on, how to navigate those “what am I doing here?” moments, and why the quiet, reflective times when no one’s watching might just be the most important moments of all.

Cameron’s insights, from his experiences in elite sports to his work now coaching leaders across business and community, are so relatable and deeply impactful.

We explore what it means to create the right conditions for people to thrive, how to reframe your story when it’s holding you back, and why leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing up with courage, humility, and a deep sense of purpose.

I hope you enjoy as we dive into this thoughtful and inspiring conversation.

Cameron, thank you for sharing your wisdom, heart, and valuable practical tools that we can all takeaway.

Sincerely,

Hutch

P.S

Often, the journey of personal development can be misunderstood or even dismissed- many might view it as unnecessary or even indulgent. As we explore in this episode, it is not about ‘fixing’ yourself or chasing perfection… it’s about choosing who you want to become, letting go of old stories, and moving towards a more authentic, abundant version of yourself.

In this episode, I am delighted to once again speak with Tracy Secombe, our Director of Wellbeing at Farm Owners Academy, and someone who helps our community open-up to and embrace conversations about personal development and mindset.

In challenging times and an ever-changing world, for mine, this shift is more important than ever.

Tracy and I explore how to reframe challenges, embrace emotions without judgment, and navigate the highs and lows of personal growth.

Tracy shared a perspective that I’d describe as seeing life through a glass-half-full lens: “There’s plenty more where that came from.” It’s a simple yet powerful phrase, and when you really reflect on it, it represents a mindset shift—from focusing on scarcity and limitations to embracing abundance and possibility.

We unpack how to manage emotional triggers, find clarity during tough times, and step into a mindset of growth and abundance—even when the world feels heavy. Tracy’s take on shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance is not just inspiring; it’s transformative.

I hope this conversation will leave you with fresh perspectives and valuable tools to take into your own life and business.

So grab a cuppa, take a moment for yourself, and settle in for a heartfelt conversation that’s sure to challenge and inspire.

Let’s dive in.

Hutch and the FOA Team