In this deeply moving and expansive episode of Your Neighbourhood Show, host Carolyn sits down with the inspiring Lou Wilson for a rich conversation that weaves together themes of belonging, personal transformation, resilience, and purpose. From a deeply rooted childhood in Toowoomba to her career transitions, personal heartbreaks, a life-altering cancer diagnosis, and ultimately, a newfound passion in supporting Indigenous education through Yalari, Lou opens up with raw honesty and warmth.

Listeners are treated to an intimate look at Lou’s evolution — from pharmacist to philanthropy leader, from young traveler to olive oil entrepreneur, and from disconnected to deeply reconnected. This is a story about the beauty of starting over, the importance of intentional community, and how adversity can serve as a gateway to discovering your truest self.

📂 Episode Breakdown:

[00:00 – 03:20]
Carolyn introduces the podcast’s mission: exploring the power of connection through real-life stories.

[03:20 – 07:00]
Meet Lou Wilson: Carolyn welcomes Lou and introduces her current role at Yalari, a nonprofit supporting Indigenous students through education.

[07:00 – 13:10]
Lou reflects on her warm, stable upbringing in Toowoomba — filled with neighbourhood play, family traditions, and lasting friendships.

[13:10 – 18:30]
School years: Lou shares the impact of teachers, both positive and negative, and how early relationships shaped her.

[18:30 – 23:40]
Studying pharmacy and finding her independence at university, living in college, and stepping into her early career.

[23:40 – 29:10]
Traveling overseas: Lou recounts her transformative trip to Europe, where she met Costas in Greece — a relationship that offered deep emotional reflection.

[29:10 – 33:20]
Returning to Australia, settling into marriage and motherhood, and the joy and complexity of family life.

[33:20 – 39:00]
The 1987 stock market crash prompts a bold move to London, where Lou and her family start anew and welcome their first child.

[39:00 – 44:30]
Raising a young family in the UK, discovering a new rhythm, and leaning into community once again.

[44:30 – 48:00]
Back in Australia: the family grows, life continues, and beneath the surface, change begins to stir.

[48:00 – 52:10]
At 43, Lou is diagnosed with breast cancer. She shares her healing journey — from chemotherapy to the unexpected gift of meditation and reconnection.

[52:10 – 55:50]
The unraveling of her marriage: discovering her husband’s affair and the difficult process of reclaiming her sense of self.

[55:50 – 59:00]
A new beginning with Yalari: how a single conversation led to a role that gave Lou deep meaning and aligned with her values.

[59:00 – 1:02:30]
An unexpected business venture: importing high-quality olive oil from Greece, connecting health, memory, and purpose.

[1:02:30 – 1:05:00]
Final reflections: Lou’s advice to her younger self, thoughts on true connection, and how stepping outside your comfort zone leads to discovery.

🌟 Why Listen:
This episode is for anyone seeking hope after hardship, craving deeper human connection, or navigating life’s transitions. Lou’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative, and that healing, purpose, and joy often bloom from life’s toughest moments.