Episode Details

Holly Ransom is best known as a globally recognised speaker, strategist, and CEO of Emergent — the woman who’s interviewed the Obamas, led a G20 Taskforce, and worked with some of the world’s biggest companies. But in this deeply personal conversation, she opens up about the loss of her beloved grandmother Dorothy — and how grief, for the first time in her life, brought her to her knees.

Holly shares the powerful lessons Dorothy taught her — about empathy, leadership, and doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching — and how those lessons are helping her navigate the complexities of midlife, caregiving, and the systemic gaps we face as our population ages. From grief and memory to workplace disruption and policy reform, this episode is a reminder that the most important leadership often starts at home.

FIND OUT MORE

If you’re caring for aging parents, navigating your own next chapter, or just trying to keep all the balls in the air—you’re not alone. At Violet, we offer free tools and support to help families navigate the last stage of life with care and confidence. Visit violet.org.au to start the conversation.

CREDITS 

Host: Melissa Reader

Guest: Holly Ransom

Executive Producer: Lize Ratliff

Find out more about Violet at violet.org.au

Agehood is the podcast that finally says what we're all thinking but rarely saying out loud. Hosted by Melissa Reader, CEO of Violet, we have the conversations that matter most: watching our parents age, being everyone's go-to person, the mess of love and duty, what it really takes to care for those we love, and yes, death, dying, and loss.

You'll hear Australia's most trusted voices, from beloved broadcasters to respected experts, vulnerably sharing their own stories alongside practical guidance that actually helps. This isn't about having all the answers—it's about asking the right questions and knowing you're not alone.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.