Hello there!
In 2006, Dave Graham came out as gay on live national television, in front of an audience of 3 million people. It was one of the first times in Australia a person’s sexuality was so openly exposed, and thankfully gloriously accepted, making Dave’s story profoundly impactful for other gay men and women. But this courageous act is only part of Dave’s story. In this conversation, we weave from outback Australia, through Mongolia, and back to Western Sydney and Rufftrack, the not-for-profit program for at-risk kids that Dave founded. And ask the question, do we find our purpose, or does our purpose find us?
Resources:
- The origin of the kangaroo can be found here and here.
Learn more about Dave and his work.
Learn about Rufftrack, and donate if you can.
About 'Farmer Dave' Graham
In 2006, ‘Farmer Dave’ Graham soared to stardom on Big Brother, capturing the affection of the Australian public. Renowned as a seasoned TV and radio personality, he graced shows like Dancing with the Stars, an Oprah Winfrey pilot, and Australian Story. Today, Dave, a dedicated youth worker, professional animal behaviorist, and compelling keynote speaker, has co-founded RuffTrack. This innovative youth engagement program not only reconnects disengaged youth with their communities but also equips them with the skills needed for a promising future.
Find the moment you're seeking
2:20 From life without a television to stardom on the biggest reality TV show of the time, Big Brother.
5:20 Challenging assumption and changing the narrative; Dave Graham’s bold act of publicly embracing his identity as a gay man before an audience of three million.
10:59 Dave’s decision to come out to his mother; “I thought the easiest and best way is change my life, change Australia, do it all in one big, rip that bandaid off.”
13:33 Dave’s early years; how growing up on a station fuelled his extraordinary imagination and intellect.
16:40 A movie-worthy love story in the heart of Mongolia.
22:51 Dave’s harrowing parachute accident, the canine companion that reignited his zest for life, and the incredible purpose that ensued.
26:41 The mission propelling the non-profit RuffTrack- Keep kids alive, keep kids out of prison and set them up with the skills they need for a secure future.
28:20 Did Dave’s purpose find him or was the journey the purpose all along?
31:18 How RuffTrack changes trajectories- instilling purpose through caring for dogs and providing a nurturing environment for youngsters to realise their fullest potential.
33:39 Dave’s battle with addiction and discovering the power of breathing.
40:02 Jo shared the Origin Story of Well-Known Thing, our beloved Australian icon, the kangaroo.
43:37 What is Dave Graham’s Be?
Meet Jo
Jo Stanley is Founder and CEO at Broad Radio – radio for women, by women. Comedian, author, MC, speaker. Co-host of The House of Wellness TV and Radio. Hope messenger. Equality warrior. Mother, wife, awesome friend.
Broad Radio Insta • Broad Generation Insta • Broad Radio Web
Say hi to Mimi
Mimi is the Author of House of Kwa, Journalist, MC, Facilitator, Keynote, Mum of four, studying to become a mindfulness mediation teacher, also did architecture at university and didn’t become an architect. Quite a good friend.
BUY House of Kwa • Mimi Kwa Web