Radio host Ricki-Lee Coulter expressed her shock and disappointment after being let go from FM station Nova.
“Experiencing feelings of being unwanted isn’t pleasant, so when something like that occurs, it can be quite upsetting,” Coulter mentioned during her first interview after her departure from the Sydney breakfast show, where she co-hosted with Merrick Watts and Scott Dooley.
“We were in talks about the upcoming year when everything came to a halt, followed by the news of the decision I received.”
“At that moment, I had a slight expectation of it happening, but there’s still an element of shock and distress, yet it is what it is.”
Melbourne radio DJ Katie “Monty” Diamond will take over Coulter’s position.
Nova announced the news regarding Coulter’s termination the day prior to the nationwide radio awards, where she had been nominated for Best New Talent.
“That felt a bit unfair,” said Coulter, who chose not to attend the awards ceremony. “It would have been enjoyable to celebrate it with the team.”
“However, I opted to stay low-key and didn’t wish to be pursued, knowing it was the topic on everyone’s minds.”
The 24-year-old did not receive a clear explanation for her dismissal.
“Everyone was very kind and complimentary, but no one has provided me with any plausible reasons or answers.”
Having concluded her marriage to childhood friend Jamie Babbington in 2007 after just a year, Coulter affirmed she had “already moved on” and was excited about the “next chapter in life”: completing her upcoming album and searching for a new home with boyfriend Richard Harrison.
“He resides in Melbourne, but he’s relocating here soon. We’re planning to live together.”
“For much of our relationship, he’s been there while I’ve been in Sydney.” So nothing awaits but fun times ahead. I’m not short of things to feel good about or to worry over in my life.”
The former Australian Idol finalist plans to persist with her fitness regime, which has aided her in shedding 15kg over the previous year.
“There was a moment I looked in the mirror and realized I wasn’t satisfied.”
“When you don’t feel well mentally, emotionally, and physically, it’s a chaotic situation – that’s how I felt.”
“It was all about a shift in mindset and lifestyle. There’s no extreme diet; I train six days a week and eat healthily.”
“There’s no set end point. It’s about being fit and feeling fantastic. And I do, I feel fantastic.”
