Meet the Seaworthy State Crew
Leigh Stalker
[Lead Facilitator + Director]
Leigh Stalker is a performance coach with deep roots in the marine world, where leadership, resilience, and human performance are tested daily against the power of the ocean. Drawing on years of experience as a professional Yacht Captain, Master scuba diver trainer, and in-water emergency response instructor, Leigh brings a unique perspective on performance, combining the physical, mental, and emotional strength required to thrive both at sea and on land.
Marine-Inspired Performance Coaching
Leigh’s coaching approach is anchored in a career shaped by extreme environments—both maritime and terrestrial. He has captained expedition vessels, research ships, and private yachts across Australasia and beyond, developing acute skills in decision-making, crew leadership, and endurance under pressure. His ability to remain composed and effective in unpredictable conditions at sea informs his coaching philosophy, where resilience and clarity of thought are paramount.
Beyond the ocean, Leigh has pushed human limits on land—summiting a 6,200-meter Himalayan peak solo, completing Ironman triathlons, setting a world record for endurance, and finishing countless marathons. This combination of marine leadership and personal endurance achievements gives Leigh a rare depth of understanding in human performance—one forged where risk, responsibility, and resilience intersect.
Empowering Mariners and Beyond
Throughout his career, Leigh has mentored countless mariners, supporting them in building resilience, confidence, and the leadership skills needed in the marine industry. His coaching has helped seafarers, athletes, and everyday individuals alike discover strength they didn’t know they possessed.
Passionate about giving back, Leigh regularly offers community workshops and scholarships to ensure that health, wellness, and performance training are accessible to those who need them most. His mission is clear: to help others find the clarity, conviction, and confidence to thrive—whether on the open ocean or in the challenges of daily life.
Leigh’s commitment to performance goes beyond endurance. As a certified yoga teacher and advanced practitioner of breathwork and meditation, he blends mindful movement with the discipline of seamanship. His practice deepened during years at sea as a ship’s Captain and expanded through training in India, where he earned advanced certifications in yoga, pranayama, and meditation.
This integration of physical training and mindful awareness reflects his belief that true peak performance—whether steering a vessel through a storm or pursuing personal growth—arises from the alignment of body, breath, and mind.
Mindfulness and Movement at Sea
Kim Kuipersmith
event manager
“If Leigh steers the ship, Kim ensures it runs seamlessly.”
With years of experience across both motor and sailing vessels, Kim has worn many hats. From onboard operations to sales, client relations, and guest experience management. This breadth of expertise has given her not only a deep understanding of the maritime industry but also an appreciation for the unique challenges and triumphs of life at sea.
Today, Kim brings that wealth of knowledge into her role as Seaworthy State’s Event Manager, where she is the anchor behind the scenes. She leads with precision and organisation, overseeing everything from planning and logistics to ensuring smooth execution across programs and events. Her eye for detail and commitment to structure means that every initiative runs with clarity and purpose, while her personable approach keeps mariners and partners alike feeling supported and valued.
By combining administrative expertise with lived industry experience, Kim creates a foundation where Seaworthy State can deliver on its mission: empowering mariners in their mental well-being, performance, and resilience. She is the steady hand that ensures the business not only stays on course but thrives — allowing Leigh and the wider team to chart bold new directions with confidence.
