Blind Magic in Alice Springs

Episode 946 Happy Birthday, Sainter!

Hi everyone. Well, well, it's a big day, so I've got something to sing to you all. Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Santa, happy birthday to you. Hey, Santa. Oh, yeah. My beautiful boy turns one today. My beautiful puppy dog. And he means the world to me. He truly does.
So what does Santa do for my life? Well, in my recovery, he has given me great comfort. He has given me someone to return home to when I go to work or indeed if ever I go out. In the night time, I just reach out for him and there he is, right alongside my bed, on his bed. And he has the most beautiful, beautiful fur. He truly does.
Ah, yes, he's extremely loyal. We haven't had one argument, have we, mate, hey? Not one argument. Oh, wow. Lick, lick, lick. Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know, mate. Yeah. Not one argument have we had and we never will. Will we, mate?
He loves my new lounge. I tell you what, he loves my beautiful new lounge. Anyone would think that he went into Harvey Norman with a credit card in hand and brought it for himself, but wow. He sits there right alongside me on the sofa and yeah, we have little chats, don't we, mate? We have little chats. Yes.
He's a bit of an animal liberationist though. He won't kill any mice. He won't. I think he's chasing them out of the house though. So still got a bit of a problem here in that area, but it's okay. They're under control for now.
Anyway, he's such a wonderful, wonderful puppy dog. I did say in a previous podcast that I so recommend his breed. He is a Maltese Shih Tzu, and wow, they have, as I said, the most amazing temperament, the most amazing fur, and they're just the most amazing indoor dog, which is exactly what I needed, exactly what I wanted, and here he is.
He has an incredible temperament. He's smart, he's independent, so he takes himself outside, brings himself back in. Oh yes, he's amazing. He's the most beautiful. As I said, the fur is so beautiful because it's winter here in Alice Springs now, but when he sits on your feet, it's like you're wearing a pair of boots. Absolutely beautiful.
And he shares his birthday with none other than Clint Eastwood. Oh, yes, Clint Eastwood is 94 today and Santa is one. I think very soon we'll be cutting a cake for him, blowing out a candle, and you'll get it again, mate. Happy birthday again. How about that? You've got to put up with your dad's singing once more.
Anyway, folks, I thought I'd share his birthday with you because you've heard so many great stories about him during these episodes. Oh, well, he wants to get down. I think he's heard Rachel come and he knows that she's got the cake. So I'm going to leave it at that, folks. Happy birthday, dear Santa. S-A-I-N-T-E-R. That has been episode 946 of, and it's been a Blind Magic Communications production.

Episode 945 Overcoming the Unimaginable: A Journey of Resilience

Good morning from Alice Springs, Central Australia, Northern Territory. In this episode of Blind Magic in Alice Springs, Murray Stewart shares his profound journey of overcoming immense challenges. Born totally blind, Murray faced numerous battles, including a violent family environment and the trials of multiple marriages.However, his most significant struggle began in October 2022 when he suffered two strokes, leading to permanent brain damage and a drastic change in his spatial awareness. Despite these setbacks, Murray's story is one of resilience and determination. He speaks candidly about his rehabilitation journey, offering wisdom and encouragement to others facing similar struggles.Murray discusses his approach to recovery, emphasizing the importance of challenging oneself to stimulate brain function and create new neuropathways. He shares his plans for an upcoming trip to Tropical Queensland, designed to push his limits and further his progress.Join Murray in this inspiring episode as he reflects on his battles, his hopes, and his unwavering determination to regain independence and live a fulfilling life despite the odds.

Episode 944 Reflecting on Achievements and New Beginnings

Hi everyone, away we go. This is Murray Stewart, your host and presenter, and this is episode 944 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs. A good friend of mine had a birthday the other day, and she told me that as a part of her celebrations. She wanted to go up in a helicopter. So one of her friend's husband is a helicopter pilot, so she was granted that wish. And as she said, that's one more off the bucket list.
And I thought about this notion of a bucket list. I've never really wanted to go down that road because I wonder what happens once you have reached the end of your bucket list. Does that mean game over and then you curl up waiting in God's waiting room? I'm not sure. I haven't really had a bucket list as such, but I certainly have had things that I have wanted to achieve, and fortunately in my life, I have achieved those things.
When I was a teenager, I wanted to be a remedial masseur. Done. Yes, I have been a remedial masseur myotherapist for many years. When I was younger than that, as a nine, ten-year-old, I wanted to play cricket for Australia. That dream was realised. In 1984 at the Brisbane Australian Blind Cricket Carnival when I was selected as 12th man for Australia. I also wanted to run for Australia in track and field. And I did in 2011 in Darwin. I ran for Australia, achieving a silver medal in both the 800 metres and the 1500 metres.
So what else did I want to achieve? Well, I wanted to run a business and I did. In Melbourne, before coming to Alice Springs, I owned the MultiCare Tactile Therapy Centre, employing over 20 myotherapists. And then I also owned a gymnasium called the Rebound Fitness center. I wanted to have a family. Yes, I did. Well, as I have previously said, my marriages have not lasted the distance, but I have no regrets that I have four beautiful children as a result of those three marriages. So I have absolutely no regrets at all.
So what else do I want to achieve well from now it's about having wonderful relationships with my four children passing on my experience and wisdom to make sure that when I leave this mortal coil that they will be okay yeah that's what I want to do I want to shore up their life and their future by giving them everything I have in terms of wisdom and experience so they can have a wonderful fulfilling life as I have had. I've got plenty more to give, though, folks. I do. I have got plenty more to give.
My new business, Blind Magic Communications, is the vehicle from which I intend passing on the wisdom that all blind people have, that for us is a matter of survival. But that wisdom that knowledge those tools those skills those survival skills can be very very useful for everyone across the world so I certainly intend ensuring that blind magic communications becomes an icon in that space so look out there's more to come from me 100% there's more to come from me I almost feel that a brand new chapter of my life has just begun so yes for me it's not about a bucket list it's more about giving to the world as the world has given to me and in doing so contributing to making this a better place and keeping myself as youthful as I possibly can. Until the man upstairs says, you know what, mate? You've done your bit. Now it's time to come to heaven. Yeah, that's where I'm at. And I'm feeling good about that.
Okay, everyone, this has been episode 944 of Blind Magic Communications production.

Episode 943 Rediscovering Balance: A Heartfelt Journey from Melbourne to Alice Springs

Hello and welcome to everyone. This is Murray Stewart, your host and presenter, and this is episode 943 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs.
In this episode, Murray takes us back in time to the year 2000 when he was 37 years old, living in Melbourne, and had a major heart attack. He shares how his workaholic lifestyle led to a critical health scare and the life-changing decision to move to Alice Springs with his wife, a place they had fallen in love with during their honeymoon.
Murray reflects on the importance of slowing down and reassessing one's priorities, highlighting the recent decision of a friend to make lifestyle changes for better health and happiness. He emphasizes the value of family, friends, and taking time to enjoy life, cautioning against the dangers of overworking.
Despite his initial efforts to maintain a balanced life in Alice Springs, Murray admits to falling back into old habits, leading to another severe health crisis in 2022. He underwent a quintuple bypass and suffered strokes, underscoring the unsustainability of his previous pace.
Through his personal story, Murray urges listeners to reconsider their work-life balance, prioritize their well-being, and cherish their time with loved ones. He shares his ongoing journey of recovery and commitment to working smarter, not harder.
As the episode concludes, Murray marvels at the beautiful rain in Alice Springs, celebrating the miracles of nature and life. Join him in reflecting on the lessons learned and the importance of making mindful choices for a healthier, happier future.

Episode 942 The Wisdom of Honesty: Life Lessons from an Unexpected Mentor

Good afternoon from Alice Springs, Northern Territory! Welcome to episode 942 of "Blind Magic in Alice Springs" with your host, Murray Stewart. In today's episode, we dive into a heartfelt lesson about life and marriage, inspired by a chance encounter with an older gentleman.Murray shares a reflective story about meeting a man 15 years his senior, who has been married for 54 years. The conversation turns to the secret of a lasting marriage, and the elder's answer is simple yet profound: honesty. This revelation leads Murray to rethink his own views on honesty, especially when it comes to sharing personal and medical matters with a partner.Through this candid discussion, Murray explores the importance of transparency in relationships, the value of mentorship from older generations, and how being open can lead to deeper connections and mutual support. Tune in to discover why honesty truly is the cornerstone of a loving, respectful relationship.

Episode 941 Overcoming the Black Dog: A Journey of Resilience

Hi everyone. Good morning from Alice Springs, Northern Territory. This is episode 941 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs, hosted by Murray Stewart. In this episode, Murray opens up about his recent battle with depression triggered by a seizure caused by his frontal lobe brain injury.
Despite the challenges, Murray shares how he drew a line in the sand, took proactive steps to rearrange his finances and declutter his life, and found solace in engaging with athletics and his work as a myotherapist. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive psychological attitude and managing one's lifestyle to combat setbacks.
Murray's message is clear: if you find yourself in a similar situation, take steps to reorganize your life and seek the support you need to lift yourself out of the darkness. Join Murray in his journey of resilience and determination as he refuses to yield to depression and brain injury.

Episode 940 Breaking Up with Dignity

Hi everyone, welcome. It's a wonderful evening here in Alice Springs, Central Australia, and I hope it's beautiful wherever you are. I am your presenter and host, Murray Stewart, and this is episode 940.
Neil Sedaka wrote and sung a beautiful song about a sad topic. Breaking up is hard to do. And yes, it is. Breaking up is hard to do. But the fashion in which you break up often determines how well you recover. My view is you should do it with honor. You should do it with respect.
I've been married and divorced on three occasions. Twice, I broke things up. And on the third occasion, I was given my marching orders. I hold nothing against my previous wives and will always hold them in a special place in my heart. What I have learnt about breaking up, I think is worth passing on.
If your marriage is in such a circumstance and you are contemplating calling it a day, then why don't you just sit down with him or her and be very honest and very direct, but very, very respectful. How about something like this: "I just wanted to have a chat today so we can both start working on a new future, a brand new beginning."
Most separating parties in a marriage that has not been working are very aware that their marriage is on the rocks and they are lonely. When someone respectful sits down with them and brings this to a head, they are mightily relieved. Breaking up in this fashion will mean that you will both respect one another and be capable of separating in an honorable, respectful, and caring manner.
If there are children involved, it's absolutely vital that you break up in this sort of manner because the children are watching and they are hurting as well. By your example, they would have learnt how to do such exits in a wonderfully dignified manner.
Good luck to you and I hope if you have to experience breaking up that these words of wisdom can help you to conduct the exit in a manner where your life can be glued back together again in a brand new fashion.
Okay, folks, that's it. This has been episode 940 of Blind Magic Communications Production.

Episode 939 The Truth Behind Champion Athletes

Welcome to episode 939 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs, hosted by Murray Stewart. In this episode, Murray delves into his unique journey as the world's only identified totally blind athletics coach and shares his unwavering commitment to honesty with his athletes.
Murray discusses the importance of resilience, strength, self-confidence, and self-belief in young athletes. He emphasizes that while positivity is crucial, it should never come at the expense of truth. By being honest, even when performances fall short, Murray believes that athletes can work through challenges and emerge stronger.
Drawing from his own experiences and the alarming societal issues such as youth suicide, domestic violence, and youth crime, Murray highlights the crucial role of teaching resilience. He calls on older generations to pass down their wisdom and experience to the youth, ensuring they learn to navigate adversity and become resilient individuals.
Join Murray in this inspiring episode as he shares his mission to impart resilience through coaching, fatherhood, and every opportunity life presents. This is Blind Magic Communications Production.

Episode 938 Embracing Change: Stress-Free Moving Tips and New Beginnings

Welcome to episode 938 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs! I'm your host, Murray Stewart. In this episode, we explore the often stressful process of moving and how a change in attitude can transform it into a positive experience.We begin with a shout-out to our wonderful sponsors, Roberto's Pizza, located at 72 Todd Street in Central Australia. Their delicious pizzas are a must-try!Moving can be as stressful as a major life event, but it doesn't have to be. I'll share my personal journey of moving multiple times and how I turned it into an opportunity for renewal and decluttering. From hiring removalists to culling unused items, these tips will help you manage the stress and embrace the excitement of a new beginning.Whether you're moving across town or to a new state, changing your attitude can make all the difference. Join me as I discuss building resilience through positivity and organization, ensuring your next move is less about stress and more about a fresh start.Stay tuned as Blind Magic in Alice Springs goes on tour to Tropical Queensland in early July. Until then, happy moving and decluttering!

Episode 937 Celebrating Sainter: A Year of Joy and Companionship

Hi everyone, let's go. Yeah, let's do this episode once again. It's from me to you. I am Murray Stewart and I am your host and presenter. This is episode 937 of Blind Magic in Alice Springs.
Let me firstly say a big hello to some of our treasured sponsors, Josh Burgoyne, the member for Breitling. Hi, mate. Thank you, thank you for supporting this podcast series. And I also wish to thank you on behalf of the residents of Alice Springs and your wonderful representation of our town and its issues in Parliament House, or should I say at Parliament House in Darwin. Yes, a big thank you from our listeners, from me to you.
Also Smart Off-Road Mechanicals. Yes, Damien Smart and his brilliant team at Smart Off-Road Mechanicals. Do not hesitate, folks, if you live in Central Australia, if you have a car that is not performing at its best, then don't hesitate. Go straight to Smart Off-Road Mechanicals and the team there will set things right for you. Yes, he's smart by name, but he's also very smart in practice. And on behalf of all of the listeners, I just wanted to thank Damien Smart and Smart Off-Road Mechanicals for their sponsorship of Blind Magic in Alice Springs.
Well, May 31 is coming and that is going to be a very, very special day for me and for my little puppy dog, Sainter. Yes, Santa turns one on May 31. And what a difference he has made to my life. or what a difference he has made. Santa is highly intelligent. He is a bit stubborn and a little bit disobedient, but he's very, very playful, and he has got the most magnificent fur. Yes, he does. He feels absolutely beautiful to Pat, and he's always there when I come home from work to say a big hello and first thing in the morning when I jump out of bed, there he is. He loves sitting on my feet or walking alongside me. he makes every day a wonderful day.
If you are on your own and you are an older Australian and you have been thinking about getting a puppy dog, do not hesitate. Absolutely do not hesitate. and I can highly recommend the Maltese Shih Tzu breed. I can. They are the most wonderful indoor dogs. They are. They're not overly needy. They are independent, but they absolutely love you. And when they sit on your feet at night in the wintertime, it's like wearing a beautiful pair of boots, and they love to do that. They do. Otherwise, they will sit right alongside you on your lounge suite. They enjoy coming to bed with you, but as I said, as they are independent. They self-train themselves in terms of toilet training and they always take themselves out when it's required and come back in when they are ready.
Oh yes, I absolutely love Sainter and it's going to be a great day. Next week, the 31st of May, when we celebrate his birthday, a good friend and support worker is putting together a puppy cake for him. Yes, a puppy cake. It'll have special ingredients that suits puppy dogs and their palate and that I'm absolutely certain Sainter will love. Oh yes, he loves Rachel and I'm certain he will love his celebration. It will come complete with one candle and those who would like to drop in are welcome to come and just say happy birthday to my boy. Yeah, say happy birthday and celebrate what he has done for me as I know a puppy dog can do for you.
Yes, what a difference a puppy dog can make. Indeed indeed and as i say do not hesitate if you're thinking about getting a puppy dog in order to make your world a happier place don't hesitate and i do recommend the maltese Shih Tzu breed. Alright everyone, this has been and always will be episode 937 of Blind Magic Communications production.