The Mentor with Mark Bouris

The AFL is the latest organisation to enter the Metaverse in a joint partnership with the digital agency, Be Media. Jordan Fogarty, the company's CEO and founder, has kept in step with web 1, 2 and 3, which Animoca Brands have since acquired for a 67 per cent stake at a valuation of more than US$5 billion.  Jordan and Mark discuss how NFTs can design unique ecosystems and opportunities for your business, the process of acquisition and the joint NFT project with the AFL teams.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn& YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cost of living is packing a punch right now. Equity Mates Media is Australia’s number one finance and investing podcast network, ranging from podcasts on how and where you should invest to Crypto and demystifying the economy. Its mission is to help people from all walks of life navigate the confusing world of finance whilst also building a viable business in the still-developing world of podcasting.  Bryce Leske and Alec Renahan are cofounders of Equity Mates Media and host their flagship show, Equity Mates.  Hear how to attract sponsors, lean into and identify your audience or customer base, and create a better money mindset regarding your equity.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we enter the market, competition can either be an ongoing headache or a problem waiting to be solved. The teeth whitening and dentistry industries have not always seen eye to eye. This is why Maria Lucas, a sought after dental hygienist in Sydney, and Alison Egan, founder of cosmetic teeth whitening business Sparkling White Smile has created controversy within their respected fields. They’ve established their online course called Institute of Aesthetic Teeth Whitening.  Alison and Maria share why they agreed to go into partnership, the importance of knowing the rules of the game you play and how they’ve subtly turned their students into micro brand ambassadors.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brisbane boy Jack Bloomfield first met Mark when he was 17, accompanied by his mother due to not being the legal age to check in to a hotel. Jack shared how he was making millions with his e-commerce businesses in Brisbane.  He's now graduated to a more serious game of business, launching a refund fraud detection company Disputify - which helps online merchants detect potential fraudulent purchases.  While there are perks, it comes with its own set of problems as a young entrepreneur. How do you prove your leadership amongst employees and investors twice his age? How do you manage your expectations whilst balancing the standards of your business and employees? How do you propel the heartbeat of the company? **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Madden & Elle Nielson are partners in life and small business co-owners on the central coast of Australia.  Scott and Elle run three businesses of their own; Body Movement gym, smoothie bar Bowlarama and recently launched protein supplement brand, FWD Form. The couple has arranged their businesses to combine the multilevel needs of their customers exercise, diet and supplementation.  When does it make sense to outsource or vertically integrate your business? **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whenever cryptocurrency experiences a significant dip in the market, confidence in its future is destabilised.   Tracey Plowman, COO of the micro-investing app Bamboo, is an app that helps people get access to digital currencies with their spare change.  Keeping up with crypto is a job within itself and has provided the need for Crypto Curious, a podcast explaining complex topics in an easy-to-understand format.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ash Belcastro is the founder of Engage, combat sportswear and gear.  He also happens to be the business partner of Eugene Bareman, managing UFC champions like Israel Adesanya and Alex Volkanovski.  Ash’s love for combat sports occurred during a training trip to Thailand, where he would also lay down the seeds for Engage combat sportswear. Ash and Mark discuss identifying talent early, fostering growth, forming influential relationships, and leveraging and finding success within a niche.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine talking to an audience of over a million people who are watching you do walkthroughs, how-tos, and reviews about gaming. The gaming industry continues to grow and is platforming careers like YouTube, who make enough money to make your eyes water.  Grace Watkins is the co-founder of Click, a Sydney based gaming entertainment management company represents some of Australia’s biggest streamer gamers since 2017.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a bonus episode from Mark’s chat with SWEAT co-founder and former CEO Tobi Pearce on Straight Talk.  Listen to the full Straight Talk episode here Watch the full Straight Talk episode here SUBSCRIBE to Straight Talk with Mark Bouris. Previous guests include John Kavanagh, Alex Fevola, Trent Robinson and Alexis Fernandez. **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Communicating your brand's message can be the difference between make or break. Bumble, the female-initiated social network & dating app, has positioned itself as part of a broader cultural movement for gender equality. Its unique value proposition has leveraged established worldwide success.  Lucille McCart is Bumble's APAC Communications Director and leads the communications strategy.  Mark Bouris and Lucille discuss the importance of language, being in tune with your audience and delivering a message that cuts through the noise. **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In its 120-year history, the affluent seat of Wentworth in Sydney is yet to elect outside of its Liberal preference. However, independent challenger Allegra Spender puts this under threat.  Liberal candidate for Wentworth, Dave Sharma, joins Mark Bouris to stake his claim for the Sydney eastern suburb seat.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aussie unicorn, Linktree is the link-in-bio category startup success story. Brothers Alex and Anthony Zaccaria and their business partner, Nick Humphreys, have found a solution that centralises creators' biggest headache on the internet, fragmentation of audience and revenue capabilities.  The platform is utilised by more than 24 million brands globally, including TikTok, Selena Gomez, Red Bull, 'The Rock', and Mark Bouris. Mark Bouris and Linktree discuss the opportunity to democratise the digital space, creating your corner of the internet and building simplicity.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"If it's not edgy, then why are you doing it? " Michelle Battersby is the co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer at Sunroom - a content and connection platform for women and non-binary creators to make money. After 5 years in the corporate world, at the age of 25 Michelle was introduced to Whitney Wolfe Herd, Bumble’s CEO and Founder and tasked with launching the dating app into Australia.  Battersby was ready for her next challenge, taking on the role of CMO at health and wellness app Keep it Cleaner.   **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin Seskin is the CEO and co-founder of The DOM, an online outlet for shopping.  Raised by the rag trade, Justin Seskin wants to disrupt the Direct Factory Outlet and take it online. One of the backers of The DOM is Hilton Seskin. He is also Justin's father, known in the industry as part-owner of Rebel Sport during the '90s, founder of Glue Store and responsible for bringing Topshop and JD Sports to Australia.  The retail heavyweights Justin and Hilton Seskin join Mark on The Mentor to provide an insight into how a mentor can help shape you as an entrepreneur and serve as a guide in your business.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rey Vakili is the managing director of a three-sided marketplace business, LTKand has been tasked with establishing the Australian arm of the international platform alongside Alyce Tran, founder of Daily Edited.  LTK is the largest Influencer Marketing community that gives creators the ability to monetise while also serving the brands and shoppers they engage with on the fashion-tech platform.  Rey has positioned herself in pretty exciting places because she gives things a crack.   Her first job out of Yale was as the assistant to the editor-in-chief of American VOGUE – Anna Wintour.  So what you'll love about my chat with Rey is that more things can happen for you if you choose to embrace the risk in business.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Increasingly, people prioritise passion over a paycheck, and many gravitate towards the creator economy. Jack Steele and Matt Ford are the charming duos behind The Inspired Unemployed.  The dynamic has shot to social media fame and has become a business, attaching with high tier brands, including the GQ, Redbull, Louis Vitton and Vogue.  The Inspired Unemployed have released a beer under Better Beer to cushion their rapid rise.  The boys are in a unique position to leverage their business, so how will they protect this in the long run? **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Within an instant, flash floods have destroyed the thousands of homes that reside along the northeast coast of Australia at the start of 2022.  It has become apparent that our country’s response to a natural crisis is not working, and it is in demand of an update.  Andrew Constance, former NSW transport minister, running in the marginal seat of Gilmore, witnessed firsthand the savagery of the Black Summer fires during 2019-20.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People are obsessed with watching Sydney-based chiropractor Dr Cody crack and adjust the necks, backs and hips of people with built-up tension. Cody has a powerful and loyal follower base of 300k on Instagram and three million on TikTok.  For this reason, people will travel for hours just to be cracked by him.  Mark Bouris and Cody discuss how entrepreneurs can reach up to 1 billion video views online, how to leverage and convert your online presence, and why hustle culture might just be clickbait.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each of us will experience something in and outside of business life that will feel insurmountable, and the prospect of rebuilding your life is challenging to grasp. But you will always find the breakthrough you never knew existed. Linda Goldspink-Lord is an award-winning small-business owner of Poseidon Equine, an animal gut health company and alcoholic kombucha, Saint and Sinner.  Ten years ago, Linda was confronted with one of her most significant challenges: saying goodbye to Molly.  But Linda has found a way to rebuild her life that she lives more fully on all levels, with Molly by her side.  She shares this in her memoir, Crawling Through The Darkness – a book about hope.  **** If you or anyone you know needs help: StandBy — Support After Suicide on 1300 727 247 Lifeline on 13 11 14 Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978 Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 Headspace on 1800 650 890 **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When comedian Rebel Wilson announced that 2020 would be her year of health and underwent a dramatic body transformation, everyone wanted to know who the hell was her fitness trainer. Jono Castano is the Aussie boy keeping the celebrity bodies ripped, lean, and checked.  Beyond this, he co-founded ACERO gym in Sydney with his business partner, Amy Castano and is preparing to launch a fitness app under the ACERO name alongside AFL star Dustin Martin. But how does a guy from western Sydney climb his way through an oversaturated business like PT and train people like Richard Branson, Michael Clarke, Kim Kardashian’s hairstylist? **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do we know more about outer space than we do about our own brains? GenieUs is a data science company that is on a mission to utilise the power of the human genome to unlock new solutions for neurodegenerative diseases.  Matt Keon is the co-founder and CEO of biotech company GenieUs, alongside Sam Brennan PhD with research lead and supported by a world-class advisory board including Alan Robertson PhD, Professor Marcel Dinger PhD, and Dr Masha Strømme PhD.  Mark Bouris and Matt Keon discuss the commercialisation of data selling in science, the art of telling the story of an idea and leaning into trend. **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Model Co and MCo Beauty is the fastest-growing beauty brand in Australia and continues to be led by the original founder and CEO, Shelley Sullivan.  For 20 plus years, Shelley has been making her way through the beauty industry, shaking up the cosmetic landscape with innovative, trend first products.  The brands have attracted the attention of some of the world’s most influential women, including Elle Macpherson, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Hailey Bieber and now Celeste Barber. Mark Bouris and Shelley discuss the key to longevity, how to listen to your key customer base and what it was like partnering with one of the biggest names in fashion history. **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian business community has been starving for resources and support over the past couple of years. In partnership with NRMA Insurance, Survive and Thrive is the first original series from Mentored. Business owners, like yourself, open up to Mark Bouris and put themselves through the wringer to Survive and Thrive as a proprietor.  Rhys Gordon, the owner of Little Tokyo, appears on the first episode of Survive and Thrive. Little Tokyo is a tattoo studio based in Sydney’s inner-city suburbs, one of the most well-known places to get inked.  Just like any business, Rhys is aware that his studio could be running a whole heap better - but he doesn’t know where to start.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's not how much weight you carry, and it's the way you carry it. — Lena Horne. Australian Olympic diver Mel Wu has been in the business of professional athleticism since she was 12 years old. She has cultivated a solid mindset to deliver peak performance in and out of the pool.  Like countless businesses across the country, Mel has had to stay focused despite the unpredictability of the pandemic. And that's how she took out the Bronze Olympic medal at the Tokyo Games.  Mel shares how she got out of her way to achieve her goals in her chat with Mark. **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intuition; by definition – it's your immediate understanding of something; there's no need to think it over or get another opinion—you know.  Your intuition arises as a feeling within your body that only you experience.  So, for this week, I want to take you through the five key moments taken from previous guests of The Mentor who followed their gut instinct in business.   The strategies we'll cover in this episode will help you reevaluate your current approach to your business, career or the overall betterment of yourself.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good ideas are most apparent when we experience a moment of frustration.  Josh Abulafia and Elle Curran co-founded ChefPrep because they were fed up with the compromises of mainstream read-made meals.  ChefPrep is a two-sided online marketplace where customers can select ready-made meals prepared by restaurants like Butter, Bourke St Bakery and Huxtons.   Mark, Elle and Josh discuss minimising the logistical risk when it comes to launching, setting up and crunching costs and why you need to have the attitude of abundance when it comes to equity of your business. **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton Larcombe is the Chief investment officer at P.A.C Capital, an independent investment manager and as of current, is taking on two key interests that include esports and innovation funding. Clayton took his corporate skills and become the largest shareholder of eSports betting company, Picklebet.  Esports (the spectator sport of video gaming) is experiencing strong growth (12% annually), with 495m viewers and $23b in betting turnover annually.  **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    -------- DISCLAIMER:  All information in this podcast is for education and entertainment purposes only and does not consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs.  Do not take financial advice from a podcast.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pinot and Picasso is a paint and wine sipping studio, a franchise business buoyed by the success of people desperate to get away from their screens.  Founders Aaron Carrasco and James Crowe are high-school mates turned business partners who set up their first franchise in Sydney's west three years ago. Mark Bouris chats with Aaron and James about assessing and rationalizing risk when deciding to take your first leap in business and making data-driven decisions. **** APPLY FOR S2 SURVIVE + THRIVE  **** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you subscribed to Straight Talk with Mark Bouris yet?  Subscribe here  Check out the latest episode with Merrick Watts  Watch episodes on YouTube here ****  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thank you for tuning in for another year of The Mentor with Mark Bouris!  It's been a big year, but as the saying goes, next year is even bigger.  The Mentored team go a bit rogue, so expect some looseness this episode.  Mark Bouris and the team discuss their favourite Mentor episodes, a peek behind the scenes, Jono's moustache, moving on from 2021 and preparing for 2022. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.    **** To listen back to the episodes mentioned in this podcast:  Bearded Bakers: Why it's so important to know your business purpose Davie Fogarty: The formula for growing a successful e-commerce brand  Michael Rodrigues: 24hr Economy Commissioner (NSW)  Finder: Should you be taking cryptocurrency more seriously?  Immutable: What are NFTs, and how could they change the way you do business?  SafetyCulture: Why self-doubt could be holding you back  Natalie Anne Hair: Small business in the middle of lockdown  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you discover a win-win solution for both the customer and the merchant, you’re sitting on a goldmine.  Mr Yum is a QR code food ordering platform, a dine-in order & pay, pick up or delivery platform for your restaurant. Kim Teo is one of four founders who came up with the idea of Mr Yum and operates as the Chief Executive and is one of the main reasons why the platform exists. Mark and Kim chat about how to quantify a business idea, how to create a win-win situation for both the merchant and customer and what turns a “nice-to-have” product into a “need to have”.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Glen James hosts the successful financial podcast – My Millennial Money. After spending ten years as a financial advisor, Glen realised he could share his knowledge on a bigger scale for a millennial market. My Millennial Money is part of this growing wave of young people seeking to understand their finances.  Mark and Glen chat about approaching your finances, adopting and forming a money philosophy and why you're spending too much money on your time.  Buy Glen's book  Listen to My Millennial Money Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The growth in the payments industry has taken off in the past few years, and there is a buy now pay later for everything.  Refundid is an instant-refunds fintech startup that avoids waiting times for products bought online.   In a funding round led by Afterpay-backed venture capital fund AP Ventures, Refundid raised $3 million in equity and debt funding six months after launching last year.  Four young guys found the company, and Brad Karney and Ilan Kessler joined Mark.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

'If we're not innovating, and we're not trying out something different, then what's the point?'  The Daily Aus is Australia's leading social media-first news publisher, and it's quickly becoming the most trusted news publisher amongst young people, and traditional media is taking note.   Co-founder Sam sam Koslowski joins Mark Bouris to discuss how the publisher continues to reset the thinking of traditional media, why the assumptions of young adults are usually wrong and how TDA is changing that.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rise of mindful drinking has taken hold internationally and now Australia is riding the wave with new products such as hard seltzer –alcoholic sparkling. In the space of less than two years, the category has exploded into the Australian retail landscape. Andy Skora and Will Morgan launched independently-owned, FELLR in 2020 and anticipate 500% growth in next FY2022. They saw that the pre-mix category was moving towards lower-calorie and light/fresh trends and created an Australian brand.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As more people rely on ready-made meals, growing your own food is quickly becoming a dying skill.  Sarah Rani picked up a hobby out of necessity after pushing herself to complete burnout from her job in community service. In My Patch went from side hustle to full-time business as her digital community began to grow.  It’s a digital platform for beginners or the “garden morons club” as she affectionately calls them.  Mark shares how Sarah can take In My Patch to the next level by finding ways to scale the business including leveraging debt, putting energy behind human capital and focusing on the right product.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Coleman MP is the Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. Head to health offers multiple ways of searching for digital mental health resources. #####  If you or you or someone you know needs help, please reach out.  StandBy — Support After Suicide on 1300 727 247 Lifeline on 13 11 14 Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978 Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 Headspace on 1800 650 890 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rise of the passive investor has taken off, particularly amongst young millennials and gen-z who recently found it difficult to enter the stock market.  At least here in Australia, the surge of younger investors into the market has been driven in part by Spaceship and other new entrants offering low fees.   Andrew Moore is the CEO of Spaceship and has overseen the growth of over 200,000 young Aussie investors.  Mark and Andrew discuss how to connect and empower your target customer, dismantle traditional barriers to entry and educate customers to set them up for success. -------- DISCLAIMER:  All information in this podcast is for education and entertainment purposes only and does not consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs.  Do not take financial advice from a podcast.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aimee Stanton lives a stark difference from how she once lived as an adolescent to how she approaches her business life as the co-founder of Tiny Stays today.  Aimee and her brother Ben Stanton decided to launch a tiny home business to help people get off-grid and take a break from their busy lifestyle and go back to nature for a few days.  Tiny Stays found scalability in scaling down.   Aimee and Mark discuss how she managed to turn her life around from feeling completely directionless to taking risks every day and pursuing equilibrium. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"How do we create an ecosystem that's built on trust but also on value exchange as well?" And Paul Weingarth is an Aussie entrepreneur who is the co-founder and CEO of Slyp –came upon the concept after receiving a 50cm receipt with the purchase of a single item.  Paul wants you to ditch the paper receipt for a smart, customer-centric digital receipt and embrace the opportunities that come with it. Slyp is just getting started, but with the backing of Australia's four major banks, they've muscled their way into a unique position.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When long-term mates Nik Mirkovic and Alex Tomic decided to launch their own business, they had a fairly solid understanding of consumer behaviour and market trends.  Mirkovic and Tomic invested $20,000 dollars of their own money into a teeth whitening company – Hismile which is now worth over $200 million and continues to be self-funded. Early on into starting Hismile, the boys quickly identified the opportunity amongst influencer marketing and found themselves securing endorsement deals with then 17-year-old Kylie Jenner, Kendall Jenner and Connor McGregor.  By the end of this year, influencer marketing is expected to be worth $13.8 billion dollars globally. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing your business online starts and ends with an effective digital marketing strategy and storytelling.  Relying on organic growth is tempting – it doesn’t cost much, but it’s just not going to get you very far. Davie Fogarty is the founder & CEO of Davie Group, a company he founded in 2018 which sells ten consumer brands, including The Oodie, Calming Blankets and Pupnaps.  Learn how to grow your business online with one of Australia's fastest-growing e-commerce groups by applying Davie's successful e-commerce formula.  Watch Davie Fogarty's YouTube channel here  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re a young woman on Instagram, chances are Bangn Body has likely popped up in your feed. The brand’s main product, a yellow-tubed body lotion, has become iconic on social media and has turned over more than 8 million dollars in revenue for the 28-year-old founder, Priscilla Hajiantoni.  Beauty influencers ranging from small, medium and large followings share themselves holding the yellow product, applying it on their face and body while raving about the product.  Priscilla shares how she generated social media interest before launching her product, achieving customer trust online and how to convert followers into sales.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you think NFTs are just an internet fad, then maybe now is the time to take it more seriously.  NFTs – non-fungible tokens – represent unique digital files such as audio, art and video that can't be replaced by something else. One-of-a-kind but in digital form.  Robbie Ferguson, the co-founder of Immutable, a trading solution for NFTs built on ethereum, wants to be at the global forefront of asset trading.   Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amanda Williams cut her teeth in politics as a media advisor in federal and state politics. Here, she learnt how to build someones public image and reputation, starting from ground zero. Amanda was dubbed by the media as a “rising star of the federal media team” – not only was Amanda making a name for her MP, but she was also building one for herself.  But one day, after an almost deadly accident, she decided her heart wasn't in politics and decided to lean into her creative, bright self. So she started Yellowpanda, a PR marketing agency that helps other startups get going.  Amanda shares her unpredictable story of how she went from politics to PR, why you need to use this time to build brand awareness and why it's more cost-effective to have an analytical strategy in place.   Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  #####  If you or anyone you know needs help: StandBy — Support After Suicide on 1300 727 247 Lifeline on 13 11 14 Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978 Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 Headspace on 1800 650 890 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Lamont has been the NSW Small Business Commissioner since June 2020. Chris has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. Having grown up in regional Australia, Chris has a solid interest in supporting regional communities.   Mark and Chris discuss how to deal with landlord disputes, confusion around COVID-19 relief payments, and why NSW isn't hearing from the commissioner directly? Small Business Commissioner  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fred Schebesta is the co-founder of Finder.com.au, one of the largest comparison websites and has recently launched the finder app that combines personal finance management with automated product comparison. Finder is now worth over half a billion dollars – all without funding.  Fred is Australia’s highest-profile advocate of cryptocurrencies and sees Bitcoin replacing fiat currency in five years. Fred and Mark discuss honouring your commitment to business, take a deep dive into the cryptocurrency wormhole and why it might become the future of currency.  ****** Disclaimer:  The information on this podcast contains general information and does not consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While many of us understand how sex works (maybe), the business of sex work is rarely spoken about.  Samantha X is Australia's most know high-class escort best selling author of ‘Hooked’, a book that thrust her into world fame.  There are two sides to the Samantha X business; Samantha X Afterdark – a successful e-commerce business selling lingerie and sex toys, and samanthax.com.au helping people feel empowered through life coaching.   ---- Samantha X After Dark Samantha X Life Coaching  ----  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the moment, people across the country tune in to their state's press conference every day to hear the latest COVID-19 case numbers. Our physical and mental health is important, but what about our economic health? NSW Minister for Small Business Damien Tudehope spoke to Mark about the frustration felt by small businesses and calls upon the minister to be part of the NSW crisis cabinet.  Access NSW Business Connect here Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In nature there's no such thing as waste, so why isn't this the same for business?  Instead, society relies heavily on the 'linear economy' – take, make, use, waste.  The Circular Economy is rethinking the way we use products and is designed to benefit businesses, society, and the environment. Nicole Garofano is the Head of Circular Economy at Planet Ark who has teamed up with Gumtree to encourage Aussies to become part of the circular economy.   Nicole and Mark discuss why more businesses are adopting a circular model, why you should consider implementing it into your own business and why it is the future. Apply to be part of Survive & Thrive cast here Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Suzy Green is the CEO and founder of The Positivity Institute which is dedicated to improving wellbeing in the workplace.  Early in her career, she worked for many years with people who were very psychiatrically unwell, before taking the science and psychology of wellbeing out to the public through The Positivity Institute. The Positivity Institute has helped many businesses and employers develop the muscle that is our mental wellbeing. Dr Suzy Green and Mark discuss finding your “golden mean” how to achieve it, resilience and mental toughness and how to create a positive work culture.   Apply to be part of Survive & Thrive cast here Get access to Dr Suzy Green's Masterclass on Wellbeing In The Workplace. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"There's an infinite upside to giving something a go."  Inefficiency drives Rich Joffe crazy, which is why he's set out to sweeten a bland industry – home insurance. Richard Joffe is the CEO and founder of the insurance tech company Honey. Rich and Mark discuss why so many of us are obsessed with the downside of risk and rarely consider the upside, being deliberate with who you receive advice from and how to find good talent for your business when it feels like a needle in a haystack.  Apply to be part of Survive & Thrive cast here Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The economic cost of a lockdown in a major Australian city is estimated to be nearly $1 billion a week. Lockdowns are crippling the economy, and the small business community is taking a disproportionate hit.  A report published by the Australian think tank, Grattan Institute Race to 80: our best shot at living with COVID, has explained how the country could exit lockdown.  Brendan Coates is the Economic Policy Program Director at Grattan Institute.  Apply to be part of Survive & Thrive cast here Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim Fung is CEO and co-founder of Airtasker – a marketplace enabling users to outsource everyday tasks.  Tim and his co-founder Jonathan Liu launched Airtasker back in 2012, and it has become synonymous with getting odd jobs and services done.  Fast forward to 2021, and it has become a listed company on the ASX.   Tim Fung and Mark Bouris discuss how to execute a convincing pitch to your audience, develop a marketplace business and why TV ads are still relevant.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Bouris is joined by world recognised hairstylist, Natalie Anne in an Instagram Live event discussing small businesses in lockdown.  Watch the Instagram live broadcast HERE  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"If you can come up with bigger questions you'll come up with bigger answers."  Self-belief is one of the few things that’ll get you through the shit…during those uncomfortable moments that make you wonder, ”why the hell am I here?”  After witnessing the tragedy of workplace incidents as a private investigator, Luke created SafetyCulture, a darling of Australia’s growing tech sector. Luke and Mark discuss the humble beginnings of working in a Mobil service station, investment from his dentist, and why your imagination could be killing your business. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark shares his frustration caused by the NSW lockdowns and the growing disunity and disconnect. He also answers your questions about using this time to rebuild your business and why you should adjust your business to reflect your customers' needs who are also experiencing lockdown. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Natalie Anne has worked in the hair industry since she was 14 years old and has hustled her way to becoming one of Australia's most influential hair specialists.  But no small business is immune to the impact of lockdown.  The small business community has been severely impacted and many are hanging by a thread.  Natalie Anne also shares how small businesses can use this time to improve social media presence and brand.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a special lockdown episode outlining the Commonwealth government's Covid-19 Disaster Payment announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Tuesday, 13th July.  For more information about the COVID-19 Disaster Payment visit:  Services Australia ServiceNSW    ***** Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After being misdiagnosed with polycystic ovaries (PCOS) by her doctor, Nicole Liu found herself travelling down the confusing, fragmented path of women's reproductive health.  Nicole is the founder of Kin Fertility – a platform empowering women with the information, products and access to the health care they need to take control of their fertility. Backed by venture capital Eucalyptus, Kin Fertility has created Australia's first contraceptive prescription service and provides personalised telehealth consultations to patients throughout their fertility journey.  Nicole discusses the importance of facilitating risk, cultivating interest and evolving into a business model. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's time we hear from you; business owners, startups, sole traders or people who just love the podcast.  Mark shares his thoughts on the latest lockdown in Sydney and its effect on small owners, and what you can do to survive during this period. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They say that the only thing that’s certain in life is death and taxes.   Today on the show, we’re going six feet under and talking about the business of death.  There’s always a need for funeral services. It’s one of the few services that are never in short supply.  Matthew Kwoka is the owner of Southern Cross Funeral Directors and host of Death Defined, educating people about the process of what happens when we die.  Mark and Matt discuss how you navigate professional environments when you feel like you’re stagnating and why sometimes the best thing you can do for your business is refuse service.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Nik Robinson’s kids asked their dad,’ what can we do about the global plastic problem?’  They were deadly serious. Together they launched Good Citizens – turning your plastic bottle into everyday sunglasses.  Nik Robinson and Mark discuss the value of transparency in maintaining trust around your business, simplifying your focus to one key problem and putting power back into your customer.   Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is Jimmy Brings?  David Berger is the co-founder of the alcohol delivery service Jimmy Brings.  David and his business partner, Nathan Besser, first became small business partners through a B2B company, Suppertime. This eventually evolved into what we now know as Jimmy Brings.  Mark and David Berger discuss the beauty of letting an idea evolve on its own, making the most out of marketing opportunities and how being flexible is likely more important than your business idea.   Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anyone can make a coffee or a good meal.  What separates customer service from hospitality is the genuine desire to serve and provide. True hospitality runs through Ameer El-issa’s veins and his family businesses; Bar Biscotti, Shisha, Knafeh Bakery and The Bearded Bakers. You’ll hear how important it is to create a genuine experience around your business, attracting and connecting big companies to your own and why making seemingly small adjustments to your business can create a huge impact.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Daniel is the founder of sportswear gear LSKD – functional sportswear with a street aesthetic. It's a company that's experienced a few rebrands since Jason founded the company in his teens, then called Loose Kid, and has gone on to grow with the founder.  Jason Daniel is brutally honest with himself and shares how a mad motocross kid from Logan, Queensland managed to create cool lifestyle clothing for Hollywood stars and everyday customers who want to chase the vibe. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Customers are savvier than ever before, which means it's much harder to win their trust.  Gimmie is a start-up company based in Queensland that wants to disrupt the consumer goods rental industry by simply offering a fair product. Co-founders Scott Roworth and Nadine Tuckey are democratising life's bigger purchases for those who often feel financially excluded.  Mark and Gimmie talk about anticipating a change in business, how important it is to keep up with what your customer wants and why change needs to be part of your business mindset.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erica Berchtold is the unsuspecting CEO for The Iconic.    The eldest of four children, the daughter to a German migrant father and a mother who was a nurse. After finishing up as the Managing Director at Rebel Sport, spending most of her career in the bricks and mortar world, Erica scored the CEO role at Australia’s number one online retailer – The Iconic. Erica moved into a disruptive online industry while disrupting her career.    The overwhelming mantra Erica carries throughout her career is, 'Why can’t I?' Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Mike Smith decided to take an eighteen-month sabbatical to the middle of nowhere, he didn't expect to find plastic ...and lots of it.  Smith is the founder of Zero Co, sustainable, reusable home-cleaning and personal-care products. Not only do you feel good buying one of Zero Co's products, but it's managed to make laundry detergent look really sexy with its fun, cool design.   I want to know why so many people have decided to back such a young startup, Mike's Smith's story behind his company, and how Zero Co plans to change the plastic industry. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Data is always talking. You just need to learn how to listen.  Dharpan Randhawa is the CEO of Talisman, a sports marketing agency, and a former SVP at McLaren Racing. To put it simply, he's a marketing matchmaker. Working alongside big names including Formula 1, Heineken and tennis player Andy Murray, Dharpan Randhawa delivers marketing results by utilising and applying data to his clients.  As business owners, data is one of our most valuable resources. Mark Bouris and Dharpan discuss how your small business can learn from big businesses and take things to the next level using data. Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Miss Amara is an e-commerce rug business achieving online business cult status.  Co-founders Alex and Aaron Weller have built a strong customer-centric business strategy with a beautiful online presence and virtual reality styling services. Miss Amara proves it doesn't matter what product you're selling online, as long as you keep the customer front of mind. What makes a rug business so successful online? We discuss product data, production fulfilment, and what what happens when your business faces a crisis?  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Persuading parents to do a course that will save a kids life is an easy sell.  But how does it work as a business?  Theo Mallos is an Intensive Care Paramedic and the co-founder of pediatric first-aid business Rescueblue.  After attending a heartbreaking job while working as a paramedic, Theo and his wife decided to apply his knowledge as a health care professional on a larger scale – first aid courses for first-time parents.  I want to know how Rescueblue recruits new people into the business, the challenges of licensing agreements and the responsibility of a hectic schedule.  Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the Sydney Lockout laws were lifted seven years after they were imposed in 2014, what remained was a nightlife in decay.  This decision cost $16.1 billion annually, as reported by finance analysts at Deloitte. Many small businesses have struggled to stay alive as high-rise buildings replace what was once a bustling hotspot for night goers. Michael Rodrigues is determined to help inject life back into the economy as the newly appointed NSW 24hr Economy Commissioner.  I want to know why he is the right person for the job, his strategy, and how he plans to execute it. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris' Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During the end of the dot-com era, while working in freelance marketing, Naomi found it difficult to attract clients who were willing to pay for her service. She realised a gap in the market for a digital marketplace for experiences. The idea for RedBalloon was born.

Michael Fox co-founded an online shoe business, Shoes Of Prey, which gave customers the ability to customise their very own shoes.  The company raised 35 million dollars in funding, made its way into the U.S, and hired over 200 employees. It appeared to be on its way to become another Aussie success story.  But in 2019, Shoes Of Prey went into liquidation.  Michael is now the co-founder of a meat alternative mushroom company, Fable Food. Found in over 1000 grocery stores across Australia, backed by celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal, Fable is on an ambitious mission to shake up the meat industry. I want to know what happened when Michael had to tell his investors the bad news? How did he convince them to fund his latest business, Fable Food?  Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris's Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Irene Deutsch is the managing director and co-owner of Australia's oldest jewellry house, Fairfax & Roberts. After spending 25-years in banking and sales at Macquarie, Goldman Sachs, and ANZ, Irene was ready for a change of scenery, landing her at the 160-year-old jeweller at the start of 2020.  Fairfax & Roberts first opened their doors back in 1858 and continue to hand-craft their signature pieces at their Sydney showroom. It's a business that serves and survives on love and emotion. I ask Irene about her experience and skills she's gained working with high investment clients and how she's transferred her understanding of customer emotions and motivations to her role at Fairfax & Roberts. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Want to grow your business and stay ahead of the pack? Access Mark Bouris's Masterclasses. Got a question or comment for Mark? Send an email.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oscar McMahon is one of the Co-Founders of Sydney brewery Young Henrys, whose mission is to create a beer company that’s in touch with the people drinking the beer, showcasing Australian hops and malts without all the bells and whistles. The business was started in 2012 by founders who shared a love of beer and music, and the view that the Australian beer scene should be more innovative and adventurous. With their combined experience in brewing and hospitality, they started Young Henry’s in a warehouse in Sydney’s Newtown, with 8 employees producing a few dozen kegs each week. They now have more than 60 staff and distribute 1500 kegs of beer a week to over 2000 bars, pubs and bottle shops around Australia, and they’re on track to sell 9 million litres of beer this financial year. I ask Oscar about the rise of the local Newtown Brewery to becoming one of the largest Independent Breweries in Australia and their role in supporting live music. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jonathan Moody is the Founder and CEO of Physio Inq, a physiotherapy business that takes people through simple changes that have profound effects on athletic performance and pain relief. Physio Inq started as a bricks and mortar clinic in 2006 in Western Sydney, and the business now has 14 clinics and 300 staff across Australia, with a new arm of mobile and in-home care for disability & aged care. In the last year, Physio Inq’s commitment to their clients went into overdrive, and the business looked at telehealth offerings and how they could use technology not just as an alternative, but as potentially a superior option to face-to-face treatments. I ask Jonathan how the business has leveraged technology in its offering and why the relationship between the different sciences is so important to his business. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Morgan Coleman was working in a corporate career when a chance encounter at the vet with his dog got him thinking about how he could make the process more efficient and painless than traditional vet visits. He saw the opportunity to disrupt the pet care industry with a service that was more convenient for pet owners and less stressful for their pets, so he started his business Vets on Call; a mobile app that delivers high-quality veterinary care right to your door. The business grew rapidly throughout 2020 with people looking elsewhere for services, and their average monthly revenue grew by 600% from July 2020 to January 2021. I ask Morgan about the discipline required to start a business in a field you know nothing about and how he continually pushes for improvement across customer usage and innovation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sean Satha is the Founder of Local Supply - a sustainable, zero-waste eyewear label that is revolutionising the production of glasses. Local Supply uses a plant-based resin to produce their frames, resulting in 50% less carbon emissions than traditional eyewear. In 2020, Local Supply saw online sales surge by over 50% and are set to keep growing. Covid gave the business a chance to completely pause all manufacturing and switch processes and materials to make everything more sustainable, with all of their packaging to be made from recycled or biodegradable materials by the end of 2021. I ask Sean how he’s grown the business, the importance of social media to the brand and how he continually pushes for improvement across sustainability, design and innovation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joanne Howarth went from being a waste offender in a previous business, to a sustainability crusader after seeing the effect polystyrene was having in her own business. Joanne is the founder of Planet Protector Packaging, who produce sustainable recyclable and biodegradable insulated packaging made from sheep wool waste. They’re on a mission to eliminate polystyrene and become the market leader in sustainable thermal packaging. Since launching in 2016, Planet Protector Packaging has removed 6.5 million polystyrene boxes from supply chains and stopped it from ending up in our oceans. In 2020, the business grew by 50% with increased revenue to farmers and 3500 tonnes of waste wool diverted away from landfill, commercialised, and given a new life. I ask Jo how she’s grown the business so rapidly and the importance of sustainability to her business proposition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest today went from a career as a stressed-out corporate lawyer to a hugely successful self-made entrepreneur in a matter of years. Alyce Tran co-founded The Daily Edited (TDE) in 2011 as a fashion and lifestyle blog that quickly evolved into a personalised accessories line. Now The Daily Edited is the go-to destination for luxe lifestyle accessories that are affordable, specialising in monogram-able leather goods. TDE employs more than 150 staff and is available online and in stores across Australia, Singapore and the USA. 2020 was the first time the business didn’t experience growth, so Alyce pivoted the product range to focus on gifts for friends and family sent directly to their door. I ask Alyce how she’s grown the The Daily Edited so rapidly, the importance of social media to her brand and how Covid affected her product range. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guests today were studying at uni when they came up with the idea for their business, which is now Australia’s fastest growing quick service restaurant. Nathan Dalah and Nic Pestalozzi are two of the three founders of Fishbowl, the Japanese inspired salad bar on a mission to change the culture of fast food with their healthy salad bowls. They launched their first store in 2016 in the middle of winter, and by spring they were selling over 500 bowls a day. Now Fishbowl has expanded to 28 locations with 300 employees and they’re now expanding their hospitality venture with a new venue called Fish Shop - a fine-dining experience with a chef driven menu of sustainable seafood. I ask Nic and Nathan how they’ve scaled the Fishbowl empire so rapidly and why good company culture is so important to the success of the business. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hiam Sakakini is the Founder and CEO of The Culture Equation, a boutique management consultancy that specialised in creating high performing culture within organisations. Hiam grew up, studied and worked among vastly different cultures around the world, before working in the leadership team at Google for 10 years and seeing firsthand the importance of culture and good leadership in the workplace. 2020 saw businesses trying to navigate the uncertainty of Covid, so Hiam’s team created a bespoke program to supercharge businesses by developing high performing cultures able to lead through any crisis. I ask Hiam how the last year has shown the importance of good leadership and motivating teams in uncertain times, why company culture is so important and what distinguishes good from great management. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anthony Welsh has seen first-hand just how much the transportation landscape has changed over the last year. He is the Director of Popcar, a car-sharing service that operates across NSW, Victoria and the ACT. Anthony started PopCar in 2016 after seeing where trends in commuting were, to allow people to rent a communal car by the hour and only pay for the time used. Over the last year the business experienced a surge in bookings, with people looking for safe alternatives to avoid public transport. I ask Anthony why community support for the business has boomed and how he sees the future of PopCar evolving as Australians think differently about the value of sustainability and the sharing economy.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest today left his successful career in advertising to set up his business after realising his passion for the ethics and origin of food. Cameron Romeril is the Founder and CEO of Soda Press Co, who create organic soda, cocktail and mixer syrups that aren't made with artificial ingredients and full of sugar. Soda Press Co. has now spread beyond Australia to 19 countries and all their products are end-to-end plastic free, organic and manufactured right here in Australia. I ask Cameron where his passion for provenance and health based products came from, and how important sustainability is to the success of his Soda Press Co. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After working as a model and producer since the age of 15, Taryn Williams was frustrated by the inefficiencies in the industry, with late payment common practice and jobs few and far between. So at the age of 21, she founded WINK Models with the company policy to pay all models within seven days, and include diversity in the representation. The business was completely bootstrapped and WINK now has over 650 talent nationally. Taryn quickly realised how important technology was to directly connect creative talent with brands and agencies. So she created her second business – The Right Fit, a marketplace of over 9000 influencers, models, actors and photographers all in one place, to make booking a creative campaign easy and cost effective. I ask Taryn how both WINK and The Right Fit aim to revolutionise the creative industry, how this year has affected her businesses with an accelerated shift towards digital, and how they deliver value and convenience to both their creative talent and clients. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If this year has shown us anything, it’s that mobility, flexibility and understanding your customer are essential to any successful business. Customer loyalty is hard to win and you can’t get it by just offering a great product – you must create amazing experiences around your brand as well. So today I’m speaking to a guest who knows a lot about investing in customer care, establishing loyalty in your customer base and leveraging technology to redefine mobility, and that is Scott Thompson, CEO of Lexus Australia. I ask Scott how the Lexus brand thinks differently when it comes to creating consumer satisfaction in an ever-changing environment, how they're ahead of the curve in creating luxury experiences for their customers, and how you can apply these principles to your own business. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One industry that has boomed this year is horticulture, with people spending more time working on their garden, reaping the benefits of sustainable living and the ‘do it yourself’ ethos. Simon Holloway is the Marketing and Sales Director of Vegepod, a self-watering, portable garden bed company helping people grow their own food at home. Following their win on Shark Tank in 2016, Vegepod’s success has spread beyond Australia to 19 countries. Early on in the business, Simon lived out of the back of his van, driving across the country to introduce the product to garden centres. Fast-forward to operating during the pandemic and they’ve had their best year on record, with a 500% increase in sales. I ask Simon how Vegepod dealt with the challenge of not being able to keep up with that demand and why easy edible gardening has proven to be a favourite at-home activity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Don Robertson and Matilda Murray are the co-owners of STAX, a fashion-forward, premium activewear brand for all shapes and sizes. This year STAX had a surge of new business as people started to work - and work out - from home, and demand for comfortable clothing boomed. So much so that during lockdown, STAX released a collection of activewear that earned them $150,000 in just seven minutes. They had the right product for the right time and 2020 has been STAX best year to date, with 2000% growth. I ask Don and Matilda how they’ve created such a strong brand following, how their business has leveraged the visual impact of social media and what it's really like to be a couple running a business together. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's guest is proof that a great product, the ability to adapt and evolve, and a strong community around you can really make a business thrive, even in challenging times. Ed West is the owner of Poho Flowers, a Sydney florist that offers a premium retail experience as well as an online store, and creates contemporary floral arrangements for weddings, offices and hotels. In March this year, when all event and corporate work evaporated, Ed focused on ramping up their online retail and reaching new customers who were looking for ways to brighten up their homes. I ask Ed how his business has leveraged the visual impact of social media to create brand recognition and why community support for the business has boomed with people looking for new ways to work together and support each other. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Simon Griffiths is the co-founder and CEO of Who Gives a Crap, a toilet paper subscription startup that builds toilets in the developing world. Simon launched the business in 2012 with a crowdfunding campaign where he live-streamed himself sitting on a toilet for 50 hours, which attracted global media attention and generated 2.5 million social media hits. Since launching, Who Gives A Crap has tripled in size year-on-year, largely relying on word-of-mouth to fuel its growth. This year they had an incredible 1000% spike in sales due to Covid-induced panic buying and have donated nearly $6 million to charities that provide access to clean water and sanitation in developing countries. I ask Simon how in many ways 2020 has been the perfect storm for Who Gives a Crap, in terms of the demand for the product, the fact that they’re a direct to consumer business and that the company was set up to allow the team to work remotely, and how he has democratised philanthropy through his business. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Darling is the Founder and owner of The Pottery Shed, a studio workshop with everything you need to create handmade pottery. Born and raised in California, Joe got interested in creating objects with clay while at school. He retrained as a Police officer with the US Army and was deployed to Europe, but maintained his pottery skills and in 2016 started The Pottery Shed. When restrictions came in around Covid19, Joe created an At-Home Pottery program for people to hire a kit of the materials and his team delivered supplies, collected and returned completed projects direct to people’s homes. I ask Joe how he adapted his offering to keep his business afloat, how the structure of military life has influenced his business and why the meditative process of creating with clay is something we could all use in our lives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest this week has a career spanning over 30 years in the Australian food industry - dozens of awards, TV shows like MasterChef and My Restaurant Rules and best-selling cookbooks to his name, and owns some of Australia’s most celebrated restaurants and bars. Yep, it’s safe to say that Matt Moran is an Aussie food icon. Like all hospitality venues, Matt’s restaurants were hit hard by the restrictions around Covid19. So Matt quickly adapted to sell home-delivered boxes of fruit and veg, taking customers through the preparation and cooking process of his recipes via livestream, and capitalising on people’s time at home in the kitchen. I ask Matt how growing up on a farm taught him the discipline he needed to start his own business and what hard work and success mean to him. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One thing that’s become clearer than ever this year is that brand authenticity and consistency as well as being able to adapt and evolve are essential in business. Someone who knows a lot about creating authenticity through brave design and innovation for the future is Ian Cartabiano, President of Toyota Europe Design Development, who is responsible for the progressive direction of Lexus vehicle design. When it comes to pushing boundaries in design to create highly technical and futuristic cars, Lexus are ahead of the curve. I ask Ian how the Lexus brand consistently appeals to their customers through design and craftsmanship, the importance of evolving into the future through innovation and how to apply these principles to any business. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daniel Hakim is the founder and CEO of CUB, Australia’s fastest growing community of established entrepreneurs and business leaders focused on a common goal – to help each other succeed by sharing their knowledge and experience. Daniel launched his business in 2015 when he was just 23, after being kicked out of two universities and deciding he wanted to make a difference in the world of business and networking. CUB venues offer a range of networking services to help members make their ambitions a reality, through access to an incredible group of business minds. This year has seen CUB’s business model get better, their team get stronger and the brand’s digital presence elevate despite the challenges 2020 has presented. I ask Daniel about the importance of networking in the business world and how this year has made CUB’s offering more relevant than ever. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest today is a great example of how to take a problem and create a purposeful business that drives positive change for everyday people. Lisa Hollinshead is the founder and CEO of One Another Community, a platform that connects skilled professionals who have pro bono capacity with those who need help in their local community, both in response to COVID-19 and as a longer-term solution to address the global loneliness epidemic. Lisa came up with the idea for the business in March this year when she was stranded in Spain, and wanted to create a social kindness platform for members of local communities to request and offer assistance. I ask Lisa how founding her business in 2020 ensured an agile and reactive start-up, and why One Another's mission to amplify the ripple effect of kindness and empower anyone to make a difference, is more important than ever. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aussie twin brothers Chris and Cameron Grant are pioneering the concept of ‘wilderness on demand’ and inviting stressed out office workers to get out of the city and experience the bush, through their accommodation start-up Unyoked. They build and design tiny, solar-powered and mostly phone-signal-free cabins in previously inaccessible locations no more than two hours from major cities around Australia. Their philosophy is that disconnecting from modern stresses and going back to simplicity is the perfect way to recharge for people stuck in the 9-5 cycle. And Matthew McConaughey clearly agrees, because he jumped on board to design a cabin with Unyoked just last year. 2020 proved to be a challenging year for their business – first with the bushfires and floods, and then of course through Covid19, when their Victorian cabins have been completely non-operational. I ask Chris and Cam how this year has made their offering more relevant than ever, and how they’re working with a captive travel market who at the moment can’t go overseas and are looking to explore their own backyard.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Internationally recognised producer Michael Cassel is the Founder and Director of Michael Cassel Group, who produce some of the world’s best musical and theatrical productions. Before Covid19 put everything on hold, they were producing three of the biggest shows on stage: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in Melbourne, a global tour of The Lion King musical, and the blockbuster musical Hamilton, which was in pre-production in Sydney. Because of the sheer scale of the productions, they’d need to run at theatre capacity in order for their shows to be financially viable, so they’re waiting for the time when gatherings of 1,500 people are allowed. But Michael is optimistic and confident that staying focused on the future, being flexible and ready to adapt, and uniting as an industry will ensure that stage shows are back up and running in the near future. I ask Michael about the importance of human connection and community in a digital age, and how he’s working to ensure buoyant business on returning to stage shows, so that when a new normal returns they’ll have great new shows ready to put on. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peta Shulman is the Founder and Director of GoodnessMe Box, Australia’s largest health-food subscription box. Every month they deliver a box straight to your door that’s filled with healthy goodies to take the guesswork out of making better food choices. Peta's own autoimmune disorder helped her discover the power of whole-foods, and she wanted other people to experience the same benefits of eating clean, nourishing foods. Over the past 5 years, GoodnessMe have worked with over 800 brands and have expanded into a kids box and a beauty box, their online shop, and pre-Covid they were hosting large-scale events. When Covid hit, brands couldn’t run events and there was no in-store sampling, so GoodnessMe decided to focus on building digital presence for the brands they worked with and help consumers find healthy products. They’ve also expanded to offer corporate opportunities – to improve morale and health of employees working from home. I ask Peta about the importance of communicating the GoodnessMe story and how their marketing strategy is all about building brand recognition so that their customers become their biggest advocates. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brandon Martignago is the owner and director of Dulcie’s Kings Cross – a bohemian 1920’s and 30’s era cocktail bar that sells only 100% Aussie spirits. Brandon was always inspired by the magic of theatre and wanted to create an immersive venue experience that really engaged patrons – so in 2018 he started Dulcie’s, right in the middle of the Sydney Lockout Laws. In March of this year, like all hospitality businesses, the regulations that came into effect around Covid19 forced Dulcie's to shut their doors. So they pivoted quickly and started offering “Dulcie’s to your Door” - take away bespoke cocktails that were handmade and hand delivered. Each purchase came with instructions to recreate the experience of visiting the bar for the customer at home. I ask Brandon how Dulcie's was able to pivot their offering during the lockdown period, the importance of theatre to their business and why they focus on using 100% Aussie produce. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Matt Connelly is the Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Me3D, a Wollongong-based maker of 3D printers and software. Since 2014 they've worked with schools to use 3D printing to teach kids as young as six how to imagine, design and create 3D models. In early 2020, Matt and his team were working around the clock to fulfil orders that were flying out the door – until Covid19 hit and business ground to a halt. So Me3D adapted to use the skills and technology they had available to design and produce face shields for medical use, and in a matter of days they had an initial production of 1,000 units delivered to hospitals. I ask Matt how the business has been able to successfully pivot into creating medical equipment and why they’re developing new software technology. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

In mid 2019, brother and sister duo Julie and Eduard Otter walked away from successful corporate careers to start their own premium whiskey and vodka distillery Otter Craft Distilling (OCD), using only sustainable and traceable ingredients. Eduard is the distiller and creator of everything inside the bottle and Julie is the creator of everything outside the bottle –  so they’ve got the family business down to an art. OCD had only been around for 8 months when Covid struck and business came to a standstill, until they quickly pivoted to produce something in high demand: World Health Organisation approved hand sanitiser. I ask Julie and Eduard how their business redirected from making premium spirits to manufacturing hand sanitiser, and how they’re planning to re-pivot back into spirits and expand the business to get scale. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Few industries have been harder hit by COVID19 than live music and events, and my guest this week, Jeremy Fleming, has been on the frontline of this. Jeremy and his wife Tabitha are the owners of StageKings who have been building custom-made stages for music festivals and sporting events since 2015. But when COVID19 forced the end of large public gatherings earlier this year, StageKings lost 95 per cent of their business within 48 hours. Rather than sit around and wait for the events to come back, they immediately thought of new ways to use their skills and produce something in high demand: work-from-home  furniture. Their rebranded furniture business 'IsoKing' has sold more than 10,000 units in just three months. I ask Jeremy how StageKings went from creating stages for the Commonwealth Games to desks for inner-city apartments and how they use social media to tap into exactly what consumers are looking for. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

There's not a single business in the world that Covid19 hasn’t effected in some way, so for the next few episodes I'll be speaking to business owners who have had to pivot their business, rethink the way they operate and find innovative ways to keep their businesses going in some of the most challenging times we’ve ever seen. So to kick it off, I speak to Paul Dewhurst, Operations Manager at Three Blue Ducks, who have restaurants in Bronte, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Roseberry and now Melbourne too. They were forced to shut the doors to all their venues in March with almost no warning. But they pivoted quickly and a week later, the business branched into the fresh food and takeaway market, supplying gourmet produce boxes to Byron Bay locals and a paired-back take-away menu to Sydneysiders. I ask Paul about how they made the quick decision to pivot what Three Blue Ducks offered, why they won't compromise their company values for an easy buck, and how Covid19 has shown the importance of community and connection.

This week I'm talking to the owner and ‘Chief Smuggler' of swimwear brand Budgy Smuggler, Adam Linforth, who's business was founded at a backyard BBQ in true Aussie fashion. Budgy Smuggler definitely know a thing or two about doing things differently, because while other brands were focusing on people with perfect physiques, Budgy made it their mission to focus on ordinary people of all shapes and sizes. They're even a favourite with Aussie athletes. I ask Adam how Budgy Smuggler have creatively used social media to gain brand recognition, and how the business has pivoted to use their famous prints to create new products.

My guest this week is changing the game for the PR and Marketing industry. Lara Vandenberg founded her business Publicist while working in New York, where she saw an industry that needed a big shake-up. The traditional way of hiring talented PR professionals through word of mouth and recruiters was becoming outdated and ineffective. So at just 28 years old, Lara took on a challenge to automate the industry and founded Publicist, an online marketplace connecting brands with the most experienced freelancers in PR and marketing. I ask Lara how Publicist is transforming the traditional PR model to provide flexible and scalable support for brands, while rewarding talent entering the freelance market in a time of layoffs.

After working as a beauty editor for some of Australia's top magazines for over 15 years, Carla Oates was shocked by the synthetic substances used in so many commercial beauty products. When her daughter developed allergies and eczema, Carla put her family on a gut-healing plan that included probiotic-rich whole foods and quickly noticed a huge difference in her daughter’s skin and wellbeing. So after researching the benefits of gut bacteria, Carla started her business ‘The Beauty Chef’ to create plant-based supplements for gut health and glowing skin. I ask Carla how she is striving to change the beauty industry to be more transparent and why she’s on a mission to educate people on healthier and more holistic skincare solutions.

If recent events have shown us anything, it’s that Australian small businesses are resilient and have a fighting spirit in challenging times. Having the right online setup for your business shouldn't be daunting, it should be simple and accessible so that anyone can feel confident to set it up themselves. My guest Suzanne Mitchell is the Marketing Director for GoDaddy Australia and knows a lot about building online success for everyday entrepreneurs. I ask Suzanne about the essential tools and services all businesses need to build an online presence, attract customers and manage their work, and how small businesses have had to adapt and pivot during Covid19 to not only remain operational but transform and thrive.

After 25 years working in retail, Julie Mathers decided to take her experience, combine it with her passion for the environment and animal welfare, and create a business committed to making a meaningful impact on the world. So in 2014 Julie launched her online store Flora and Fauna, specialising in ethical, eco-friendly and vegan products. When the business launched there were 30 brands and 500 products; now their range has over 300 brands and 8000 products, sourcing the best ethical and low-waste skincare, food, fashion, and lifestyle products. I talk to Julie about the ethic of hard work, the concept of thinking like a proprietor and how Flora & Fauna has managed to grow so quickly while maintaining its eco ethos.

Husband and wife duo Tara and Danny Solberg worked as designers collecting inspiration on their travels around the world, and always dreamed of bringing the unique things they saw home to Australia. So they turned their passion into a business and created Few and Far, a furniture and homewares business on the South Coast of NSW. Few and Far source and import one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture and décor and Tara and Danny have created a compelling shopping experience that captivates all the senses. I ask them how their design backgrounds and passion for travel helped shape their entrepreneurial mindset, and why moving online was the natural choice for the growth and success of the business.

My guests this week are Shaun Greenblo and Elliot Midalia from Boody, a sustainable clothing brand that creates everyday essentials from eco-friendly organic bamboo. Shaun and Elliot have been best friends since they were kids and their dads started the business together in 2012, when they saw an opportunity to sell an unconventional product for the health-conscious and environmentally minded customer. Shaun and Elliot came into the business with their growth mindset and love of technology and Boody is now a family business run by two fathers and two sons, sold in 1000 retailers in Australia, online and in 17 countries globally. I ask Shaun and Elliot about how their hunger to change the world for the better inspired them to create a sustainable product, and how Boody uses fabrics and craft to bypass trends and fast-fashion.

Like many who work in the fitness industry Kirsten King didn't start there; she initially worked in marketing for a decade before founding Fluidform Pilates in 2012, which gave her the perfect understanding to develop the brand and business. In early 2019 Kirsten launched Fluidform at Home, an online subscription-based Pilates program which boasts subscribers from all over the world. I talk to Kirsten about how Fluidform was perfectly positioned to deal with the increase in online subscriptions when the business experienced huge growth during a time when most people were at home, and how combining highly personalised programming with in-depth technical knowledge has played such a huge role in the success of the Fluidform brand.

Mike Pritchett grew up obsessed with video, always carrying a camcorder around to film his friends doing skateboard tricks. He founded his first production company in 2006, working on big budget video projects, when he was challenged by one of his clients to create a scalable and affordable video offering. So he created Shootsta, a customised video kit and training platform; teaching clients to capture their own video and then use Shootsta’s editing team to turn this content around within 24 hours. I ask Mike about how Shootsta is disrupting the video industry by simplifying the production process, the benefits of having clients film their own content and how his service has helped users improve their business' communication both internally and externally.

Julio Ribeiro is the co-founder and CEO of Inventia Life Science, the med-tech company behind the 3D bioprinter technology that creates realistic replicas of tumours to test cancer treatments. Julio grew up in Brazil where he studied biology and genetics, and in the 90’s he migrated to Australia to do his PhD in medicine. After working for a scientific tech supply company, he saw a gap in the market and knew that the science field had the potential to make life a lot better, so he started his company, Inventia Life Science. They developed the bioprinting platform ‘Rastrum’ to print 3D cell models in high quantity with a gel that mimics human tissue, enabling medical researchers to do higher quality experiments into cancer treatment, and potentially also the coronavirus. I ask Julio how he sees biology, computer science and engineering coming together in the next few years and where the highly disruptive sector of 3D printing has the potential to go.

This week in the final instalment of Women in Tech month I speak to Carolyn Mee, the founder of Sound Scouts, a health tech company focused on the delivery of accessible, fun and affordable hearing screening. Developed in collaboration with the National Acoustic Laboratories, Sound Scouts flagship product is an easy to use mobile game app that uses scientific principles to detect a range of hearing problems in kids. I ask Carolyn how using intuition and creativity can leapfrog your product and create opportunities outside of the usual remit, and how remote access is providing hugely beneficial to Sound Scouts.

This week as part of 'Women in Tech' month I sit down with the co-founders of Beam Australia, Stephanie Reuss and Victoria Stuart. Beam is a HR tech company and online marketplace for part-time professionals including high profile businesswomen, athletes and carers looking for the flexibility of part-time employment. Since 2016, Beam has contributed over $17 million in new salaries to the Australian economy through new jobs that couldn’t have been created without part-time work. I ask Stephanie and Victoria about how they see businesses embracing new workplace flexibility to work more efficiently and economically - it's a revolution against archaic work-place structures to reimagine the way work is done.

This week as part of ‘Women in Tech’ month, I sit down with Olga Oleinikova, co-founder and CEO of Persollo, the world’s first social media instant-checkout platform. Olga grew up in Ukraine and worked as a consumer researcher and behavioural scientist before migrating to Australia in 2012. While undertaking her PhD, she founded Persollo, with the aim of helping SME’s sell without big investment. With its AI-powered analytics and instant-checkout technology, Persollo has helped over 750 businesses across 16 countries increase their sales conversion by 300%. I ask Olga how her life has been about seizing unexpected opportunities and how her she used the outcome of her studies to build her own business.

To kick off ‘Women in Tech’ month - where I talk to some of the most powerful and innovative female entrepreneurs and leaders in the tech space – this week I sit down with Georgia Vidler, the Director of Product at Canva. Canva is an easy to use graphic design platform and it’s Australia’s fastest-growing tech start-up, with over 25 million monthly users worldwide. Georgia is leading the charge for the newly developed ‘Canva for Education’ platform, and with over 1 billion students across the world learning remotely, this is more important than ever. I ask Georgia about the importance of genuine relationships in business, what exactly a good pitch deck is and how the digital wave is changing the way we all operate.

When Quentin Nolan was 22 years old, all he wanted was to get down to the snow to snowboard; so he started driving coaches to the ski fields from Sydney. After seeing a gap in the market in the ski tourism industry, he came up with his own business - Liquid Snow Tours, tailoring ski and snowboard holidays to resorts around Japan, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. In 2008, Quentin took his first group of 45 people over to the Japanese village of Hakuba, fell in love with Japan and decided to focus his business on the ski fields there. Today, Liquid Snow takes around 10,000 tourists a year over to Japan and is on track to turn over $14 million dollars in revenue. I ask Quentin how his experiences as a child helped shape his entrepreneurial and adventurous mindset and why Japan was the natural choice for the growth of his company.

This week in the final instalment of #fightermonth, I’m talking to light-middleweight boxer Tim Tszyu, who made his professional debut in 2016 and held the Australian title in 2019. At 25 years old, Tim holds a powerful record of 15-0 and as the son of former world champion Kostya Tszyu, it goes without saying that he grew up with boxing in his blood. I ask Tim about what his brand stands for, and how he manages chaos in the boxing ring and keeps a calm head when he’s in the fight; just like we’re all experiencing in our business environments at the moment.

This week as part of #fightermonth, I’m talking to George Kambosos, the professional lightweight boxer currently ranked number 3 in the world, who’s swift rise towards world level has been phenomenal. George started out boxing as a kid in high school as a way to build his confidence in the face of bullying. His aptitude and passion for the sport quickly led to him having hundreds of fights and multiple national and international tournaments. Earlier this year George started his business ‘Ferocious Promotion,’ signing and managing young fighters with the goal to negotiate a bigger percentage for the fighter. I ask George how he put together the strategy to get to fighting the biggest names in the boxing world today, and why having a thorough understanding of what fighters go through is so important to the success of his business.

This week as part of #fightermonth, I speak to two of Australia’s greatest boxing exports; three-time world champion and one of the best fight trainers to come out of this country, Jeff Fenech; and undefeated junior featherweight champion Brock Jarvis. A twist of fate brought Jeff and Brock together; as a teen, before he even stepped foot in a boxing gym, Jeff got into a few street brawls. The police officer who came to the scene happened to be Brock’s uncle, Pat Jarvis, who took it upon himself to get Jeff off the streets and convinced him to go to the Police Youth Club. Here Jeff met trainer Johnny Lewis and went on to become an Australian boxing legend. Fast-forward past the world titles, in 2014 a retired Jeff got a knock on the door from Brock Jarvis’s dad, with Brock in tow. Jeff wasn’t looking to coach but once he saw Brock train, he knew he had something special. Five years on, Brock is undefeated, with 17consecutive wins, 15 by knock-out. I want to ask Jeff what he saw in Brock that made him take a chance on him and why he paid forward what he’d learnt from some of the great legends of boxing; and ask Brock how the way he trains as a fighter influences his business life, and how he builds and retains his revenue through sponsorships.

To kick off #fightermonth - a whole month of learning about the business of fighting with some of the biggest names in Aussie combat sports - this week I’m talking to UFC Featherweight World Champion, Alex Volkanovski. In 2011, Alex started MMA training to keep fit while playing rugby, when he got a phone call from MMA fighter Shane Coleman who wanted to train him. Alex knew he had to grab the opportunity with both hands and he started the next day. Fast-forward nine years and Alex became the first Australian-born fighter to win the UFC title, beating Max Holloway to claim the featherweight belt in December 2019. I ask Alex about the business of fighting, what drove him, what specific skills got him to where he is today and how he plans for a fight when things go wrong – just like we’re all experiencing in our business environments at the moment.

There's no hiding from the fact that we're facing difficult times. As business owners, I know there's a lot of confusion and complexity around what your next steps should be in the face of the COVID19 Pandemic and all the government restrictions and measures in place around the country. So I've sat down for a special podcast to make sense of all the noise surrounding the various stimulus measures. I've been talking to the government regularly, to help clarify the various measures to give you the information in a no-nonsense, straight forward way. I discuss getting access to working capital, cash payments on PAYG withholding, superannuation release, increasing the instant asset write off and business investment incentives and supporting the flow of credit.

This week’s guest Chris Marr, is a former Australian Army officer who spent 20 years in service, including 10 years as a leader and commander in the special forces; during which time he led Australian soldiers on complex missions all over the world, with the consequences for failure very high. Having worked on the front line all his life, Chris was motivated to contribute to something bigger than himself; so along with his two best mates, he created Sonder - the app making the world a safer place by matching emergency service providers to those who need help, making people feel safer across the world. Whether you're being followed walking to your car at night, dealing with an aggressive customer and worried for your safety or having mental health issues, Sonder are there, 24/7 to give support. I ask Chris why purpose was such a strong motivator for the business and how Sonder is a disruptor with a conscience.

This week’s guest, Nick Georgalis, grew up in Canberra, which at the time was seen as ‘the sleepy Bush Capital of Australia.’ With a background as an engineer and project manager, Nick wanted to reshape the way people thought about Canberra and revolutionise property investment in Australia. So, in 2007 Nick founded Geocon, Canberra’s first fully integrated property enterprise with capabilities across development, construction, hospitality management, investment, sales and conveyancing. In 2007 the business had just 5 employees and 5 million in turnover; now there are 800 employees and over 1 billion a year turnover. I ask Nick how starting the business was an organic and intuitive move, and how important the Geocon brand, culture and personality is in Canberra in terms of attracting the right people to deliver the right outcomes.

Guy Saxelby was a successful charted accountant prior to founding his business Earlytrade, when a trip to New York and a chance blizzard there, changed the course of his career. As an accountant, Guy saw first-hand the strain that late payments could put on small businesses - if they’re not paid on time, they can’t hire, they can’t invest, and they can’t buy the things they need to grow their businesses. So, he came up with an idea to connect suppliers with corporate clients and allow them to offer discounts for early invoice payment. Guy’s mission is to fight for little businesses to get the same benefits that big businesses have always had, and now, over 36 thousand businesses use the Early Trade marketplace for cash flow and working capital. I ask Guy how he managed to build the largest early payment marketplace in the Asia pacific region, and how he can turn chaos, whether in the market place or in his own mind, into something hugely beneficial.

When Steven Marks landed a job as a hedge fund manager at a top Wall Street hedge fund at just 23 years old, he thought he had it made. But by 30, he was burnt out and ready for a fresh start, so he booked a one-way ticket to Australia with a dream of starting his own business. 17 years on, he’s the co-founder and CEO of Guzman y Gomez, the Mexican casual-dining chain that had its origins here in Australia. Since starting the business back in 2006 in Sydney, it’s expanded across Australia, Singapore and Japan, with plans for expansion into the US this year.I ask Steven how he transformed Guzman y Gomez from a loss-making fast food chain to a $300 million empire, how he managed to keep the drive to open new restaurants when he was losing money, and why good company culture and team rapport is so important to the success of the business.

Chairman of Raiz Invest Australia, Tony Fay, has worked in financial markets since the 80’s, where he held senior positions for several leading investment banks and stock broking firms. Through having his own kids, he saw first-hand how difficult it was for them to save and invest, so Tony jumped at the opportunity to make a difference by starting a business that provides the millennial customer a platform to invest and save, with very small amounts of money – we’re talking as little as $5. Raiz can round up transactions from your bank account and invest the 'spare change' for you; so if you buy a coffee for $3.50, Raiz can round up the transaction to $4 and put the extra 50 cents straight into your Raiz investment account, so that even those on modest incomes can start investing. When the business launched in 2016, they had 3-million dollars of funds under management – now that’s grown to 480-million dollars. I ask Tony how watching his own kids struggle to save and invest their own money drove him to launch the business, why creating their easy to use app has changed the game for young investors and how he’s trying to level the playing field with the big banks.

Model turned “Skintrepreneur” Ryan Channing was living in Paris and pursuing a career in law, when a chance trip to Japan changed the course of his life. While there, Ryan was introduced to activated charcoal skincare products and was inspired to start his own activated charcoal skincare business, The BLAQ Group. Within just a few months, the business was inundated with so many orders that Ryan moved back to Australia to work on the project full-time. Since then, he’s created two more brands under the BLAQ group; Generation Clay and Flight Mode. I ask Ryan how he bullet-proofs his business through various systems and processes, and how seeding his product to influencers around the world and communicating directly with his target market, has made BLAQ the success that it is.

Blair James grew up understanding the power and value that Aussie brands have abroad, when at the age of six, his dad moved the family over to the UK to set up shop selling Aussie products. Three years later his dad’s business went under, but Blair’s love of brands and passion for innovation was born. Since then Blair’s made huge waves in the billion-dollar beauty industry with his globally successful self-tanning business, Bondi Sands. Today it’s the number one self-tanning brand in Australia and NZ, with over 60% of the market share as a self-tanning brand. I ask Blair about how watching his dad’s business go under shaped him, why it’s so important to have a strong sense of brand messaging, and what it is about Aussie products that the global market gravitate to.

Changing the game for digital marketing in Australia, Sabri Suby launched his digital marketing agency, King Kong, at the age of 27. He’s now on track to turn over 18 million dollars this year. The secret? Sabri promises his clients results, which means if his staff don’t hit their client KPIs, they don’t get paid. I ask Sabri about why he introduced this unique performance guarantee structure, what you should be looking for when building a digital marketing strategy for your own business, and how Sabri’s entrepreneurial journey all started as a kid growing up in Byron Bay, grinding peanuts for some extra cash.

“Lawyer turned funtrepreneur” Sarah Davidson was busy climbing the corporate ladder when she started a side hustle with her now husband Nic – a tea business called Matcha Maiden. Within just a few months, they were inundated with so many orders that Sarah quit her office job to work on the project full-time. But over the last few years, Sarah’s personal brand has also become a focus, with her Instagram page Spoonful of Sarah attracting 70k+ followers. She’s also got a podcast of her own, called Seize the Yay. I ask Sarah about how growing up as a professional ballerina taught her the discipline she needed to start her own business and how she’s developed her ability to pivot time and time again throughout her career.

After seeing his sister struggle to buy a home, former Olympian swimmer Grant Brits launched Superestate, the first and only retail super fund in the country to invest in residential property. The concept allows young Australians to get a foot in the property market, while also putting a roof over their future. I ask Grant about how he brought his unique idea to life and how the many hours slogging it out in the pool, have influenced his drive and work ethic in his business today.

Scott Tulloch started Farmer Jo with his wife Sally in the kitchen of their home. Then, a chance encounter lead to the couple supplying Qantas first and business class with their product - and their overnight success. Now, the brand is stocked in 4500 supermarkets, health food stores and cafes across the country. I ask Scott about how his background in the food industry meant he was in a unique position to spot upmarket foods taking off a decade ago and how he jumped on the rising tide.

Our guest this week is proof that you don't need a university degree to succeed in business. A few years ago, inspired by his son's allergy to traditional bandages, James Dutton launched Nutricare, producing the world’s first 100% compostable, organic wound care solution. Now, they're stocked in 35 countries right around the world. I ask James how he went from leaving school at 16 to becoming to CEO of his own company and how working at JB Hi-Fi taught him everything he needed to know about how to get his product on the shelves.

What digital tools and connectivity do you need for your business to not just survive - but thrive? It may not be something you spend a lot of time thinking about but I know from speaking with thousands of small businesses that having the right technology is an absolute game changer - and now recent research is backing that up too. In this episode, I'm joined by Paul Tyler, Chief Customer Officer for Business at NBN. I want to ask Paul about the impact technology can have on the success of your business and why if you’re not investing in it, you could get left behind.

Fresh off the plane from Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most influential women in tech is in the studio this week. Sarah Friar is the CEO of neighbourhood app, Nextdoor, which launched in Australia just a year ago. We chat about how Sarah’s interest in engineering came about as a kid growing up in Northern Ireland and how this innovative digital platform is working to bring back a sense of belonging and connection in the real world, all through technology.

Model and ambassador for David Jones, Jessica Gomes, was told she would never make it in Australia. But as well as modelling, she’s now graced Hollywood screens and in 2017, inspired by her jetsetter lifestyle, launched luxury travel skincare brand, Equal Beauty. I ask Jessica about growing up in Perth, the business of modelling and about how learning to network and hustle as a model has set her up for success.

In the lead up to Veterans Health Week, I’m speaking with one of our country’s most inspiring heroes, Garth Callender. In 2004, Garth was on a routine patrol in Baghdad, when his vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device attack, making him the first serious Australian causality of the war in Iraq. Since then, he’s founded a consultancy firm called Trebuchet Pivot, applying the same methodology he learnt in the army to risk and crisis management in the corporate world. I ask Garth about the tragic event that left him fighting for his life and how his experience in the army has influenced not only how he runs his own business but advises other businesses too.

After graduating from uni and entering the corporate world, high school mates Robin McGowan and James Wakefield struggled to find suits and shirts that not only fit well but didn’t break the bank. So in 2011, they launched Institchu, selling made-to-measure menswear at an affordable price. I talk to Robin and James about how they made their idea a reality without any experience in the fashion industry and how automated technology has become the backbone of their business, allowing them to cut down on production times and keep their overheads down.

From a swimming lesson with an Olympian, to hitting the court with a Grand Slam Champion, FAN+ gives everyday people access to “money can buy” experiences with their favourite sporting heroes. I ask co-founders Rod Harys and Aaron Warburton about how their business started as an idea over a few beers but became a reality when they were accepted into the Qantas AVRO Accelerator Program and how building networks in their previous careers helped them to sign some of Australia's biggest sporting stars up to their innovative platform.

Best friends Lauren Emerson and Genevieve Hewson are the co-founders of Sydney-based textile house, Walter G. Together, they work with artisans in India to produce hand printed fabrics and home décor products like cushions, napkins and quilts. In this interview, we talk about how they moved to India to live with a family of traditional hand printers to learn the traditional techniques that are now unique to the Walter G brand and how operating their business as if it was a success from day one, meant that when they did take off overnight, they didn’t burst at the seams.

This week, I'm chatting with Simon Maree and Tim McGann from Hustle Boxing, a new premium boxing studio in Sydney’s Potts Point. A while ago, these guys sat across from me to pitch their business idea and they did it so well, I ended up investing in it. I want to talk to Simon and Tim about the best way to pitch when raising capital for a new venture, why they decided Sydney needed another fitness studio and how they’re telling their “premium” brand story without making it too exclusive or inaccessible to potential clients.

"Failure is not an option." Roxy Jacenko started her business empire at just 24 with Sydney-based PR agency, Sweaty Betty. Since then, she's added four more successful businesses to her name, along with a stack of books, an online e-learning course and now a reality TV show, “I am… Roxy!" In this long overdue catch up, I talk to Roxy about the secret behind building not one but five successful brands, her polarising leadership style and how she's overcome the haters.

Each year in Australia, we lose more than 30,000 lives to cardiac arrest. But one of the most successful ironmen of all time, Guy Leech, is working to change all that. After tragically losing a friend in 2016, Guy launched a business, called HEART180, supplying defibrillators to workplaces, gyms, childcare centres and other organisations right across the country. Guy and I talk about how that one life-changing event motivated him to start his own company and how the years of training to be at the top of his game in sport, have prepared him in business.

This week we speak to the brother and sister duo running Aussie skincare company, DU’IT. Monique and Jared’s mum and dad started the business from their garage in Sydney’s Bella Vista more than two decades ago and the business is now making it big not just at home but overseas, too. We talk about the skills Monique and Jared's parents brought to the business, why the siblings initially resisted coming on board, how to develop the right product and pricing for your market and what the secret is behind their expansion into China.

"I didn't realise that my whole acting career was leading to this." Gemma "Peanut" Pranita first burst onto our screens playing the character Jade Mitchell on Neighbours. But in 2016, after becoming frustrated with the unpredictability of the entertainment industry, she launched Photography 101, an online course teaching beginner photography. I want to ask Gemma how she made the transition from actress to entrepreneur with no experience - and how she transferred the storytelling skills she developed in front of the camera, to behind the camera and ultimately, to running her own business.

In 2017, Jem Jacinto opened the first poké store to hit Byron Bay, called Finn Poké. Since then he’s opened three more stores along the east coast, with another two on the way. With the traditional Hawaiian dish gaining popularity across Australia, I want to ask Jem what his point of difference is in this growing market, how he manages to keep his product both sustainable and affordable, plus we’ll find out how a near death experience lead him down the food industry path.

With no experience in the industry whatsoever, Bonnie Hindmarsh, Erin Cayless and Lana Taylor when took a huge risk when they started their boutique renovation company, Three Birds Renovations, in 2014. In just five years, the three best friends have renovated 9 homes, amassed more than 421k Instagram followers and launched an online educational course, called Reno School. I want to ask Erin, Bonnie and Lana how they built a successful business with no experience whatsoever, how they grew their impressive social following and how they’ve overcome the challenges that arise when you’re starting a business with your best mates.

One of the world’s best-known entrepreneurs, Gary Vaynerchuk first became famous in the late 90s, when he turned his dad’s local bottle shop into a multimillion-dollar business. Since then, he’s built on that success, with communications company VaynerX, digital agency Vayner Media, 5 New York Times bestselling books and millions of social media followers. As you’ll hear, Gary is big in everything he does, and I ask him where that intensity comes from, how his experiences as a child helped to shape his entrepreneurial mindset and what drives him, if it’s not the dollar signs.

Exercise physiologist Dr Noel Duncan is changing the way we look at our health. His business, SiSU Health, manufactures self-service health stations that allow you to complete your own health check in just 4 minutes, assessing things like blood pressure, heart rate and diabetes risk. I ask Noel how Aussies are taking to this new way of assessing our health, what the opportunities are in the growing preventative health market, whether his revenue model is sustainable and how he builds customer trust when it comes to collecting data.

With 650k+ followers on Instagram, Aussie influencer Elle Ferguson is known as a fashion icon right around the world. Last year, she took her social media standing to the next level, launching award-winning self-tanning line, Elle Effect. I ask Elle how having an intimate understanding of her followers led her down the beauty industry path, what sets her products apart from the many other tanning products on the market and what the secret is behind the success of her own personal brand.

"Save as much as possible, for as long as possible." Daniel Walsh bought his first property at just 19 years of age, and since then has built a portfolio worth 4 million dollars. Now, he's started his own business, Your Property Your Wealth, helping others to achieve the same success. I ask Daniel how he scraped up enough cash to buy his first property at such a young age and what skills he's acquired in order to launch this new business.

Each year in Australia, one billion takeaway coffee cups are produced and then thrown in the trash. But our guest this week is changing all that. Rebecca Veksler is the founder of Sol Cups, a business that produces sustainable, re-usable cups and bottles, all made from hand-blown glass. I ask Rebecca what inspired her to come up with the idea, how she’s using her business as a platform for educating others on the environment, plus how she amplifies her message to build her brand and more importantly, change the way we think.

"I hate losing more than I like winning." After receiving an inheritance of $46k following the death of his grandmother, Malcolm Quinn started his own local newspaper. Going against the mainstream media goliaths, he soon became the most successful independent newspaper publisher in Queensland. Now a media consultant, our guest shares the challenges he faced going head to head with his competitors and the pivotal moments in his life that helped to shape his business mindset.

In this episode, we're speaking with one of the most legendary players and coaches in AFL history, Paul Roos. I chat to Roosy about how his upbringing helped shape his sense of leadership, and why he's traded in the footy for a career helping businesses build healthy workplace cultures.

"The day I came to work in this business, it felt like mine." In this episode, I sit down with the co-owner of one of Sydney’s most loved institutions, Chargrill Charlie’s. Saul Cher reveals the story behind how one humble chicken shop became a thriving family enterprise and the importance of finding employees who treat the business like their own.

The way we market has changed dramatically – and staying on top of the latest trends is crucial if you want to communicate your message effectively to consumers. So in this episode, I'm sitting down with one of Australia’s most up-and-coming leaders in the marketing industry, Caleb Bush. Caleb is the Managing Director and Senior Vice President of experience marketing agency, George P. Johnson. Caleb and I talk about what exactly “experiential marketing” means and why it’s becoming a game changer for brands across the globe. Plus, I find out how Caleb went from working as a deck hand for one of the world's most influential families to running a successful business at just 34 years of age.

Not your average protein powder. In this episode, I’m joined by Lucas Becker, co-founder of health food company, Grilo Protein. Since 2016, Grilo has been selling protein powder and energy bars – all made from the latest superfood making headlines – crickets. Originally from Brazil, Lucas was working as a chef in Byron Bay, when he, his partner and a couple of friends decided to start their very first small business together, all from their kitchen at home. Find out why Lucas made the unusual choice to include edible insects as the key ingredient in his products, how consumers in Australia are responding to eating them and what the future looks like for his unique business.

“I’ve taught myself everything - it’s all out there for you to figure out.” This week I’m joined by Isaac John, a former NRL player who has launched a successful clothing business, called YKTR - an acronym for ‘You Know The Rules’. The business started when Isaac was living with other NRL stars Corey Norman and James Segeyaro, and they started making their own t-shirts for fun. It’s since exploded with new ranges released every eight weeks, and over 100 vlogs and podcasts going behind the scenes in their business. We talk about Isaac being completely self taught - from design to websites to marketing - and we dive deep into the YKTR marketing funnel, where every piece of content that Isaac and YKTR makes helps them target their audience and make sales. @yktr_ https://www.yktr.com.au/  Connect with Mark on Facebook & LinkedIn

“Anyone who wants to do it, can do it.” In this episode, I’m joined by an impressive young man, Jack Bloomfield. Jack is 17 years old, and started his first e-commerce business when he was just 12 years old. He’s made millions from growing online businesses and digital marketing, and now has started his own training programs to help other aspiring entrepreneurs do the same. We talk about how Jack found himself so passionate about business from such a young age, and how he has managed to reach such successful heights while still being in high school. He’s a fascinating guy with a huge future - so make sure you tune in.  https://www.jackbloomfield.com.au/ @jackbl_ Connect with Mark Bouris on Facebook and LinkedIn

Stories from the Green Wave: This week I’m joined by Sarah Cichy, who is the founder of a PR company specialising in a rapidly growing industry - cannabis. SHUK Communications tells the stories of various new businesses looking to get into the market with various products, and has worked with some of the biggest ‘green wave’ industry companies in the world. It’s a minefield for Sarah at the moment - laws are constantly changing and there are many logistic challenges that come with any new industry. We talk about how Sarah got into the PR game, why she launched a new business specialising on the cannabis industry, and what her next moves are from here.  https://shukcommunications.com/  Connect with Mark Bouris on Facebook and LinkedIn

This week is our Mother’s Day special episode, with Kelly Taggart, the Chief Operating Officer of the Roses Only Group. Kelly has been with Roses Only for over a decade, and was one of its first employees when it launched in 2008. We talk about the journey from her early days with the company to being an instrumental part of it growing to over 160 staff with warehouses in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. I also dig deep about how being a mother has changed Kelly’s approach to business - how she responds to issues, deals with staff, and most importantly, relates to customers. It’s a great listen, and I learned a lot - so make sure you tune in.  https://www.rosesonly.com.au/ @RosesOnlyGroup   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook and LinkedIn

This week I’m joined by Dave Sharma, who is currently the Liberal Party candidate for Wentworth, which is former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s old seat. I’m fascinated by Dave - he’s an incredibly smart guy who has seen a lot of the world, including recent senior postings in the public service. Dave spent four years as Australian Ambassador to Israel and worked in Papua New Guinea for the High Commission, but is now back in Australia and dipping his toe into politics. We talk about the big questions - why he feels like a good fit for Parliament, and what he believes - but I also dig deep into his background and family life to find out what shaped his life.  https://davesharmawentworth.com.au/ @davesharma  The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook and LinkedIn

“Come for the social aspect, stay for the running.” Fitness crazes come and go all the time, but one that has really got some legs is Parkrun. It’s a free, 5km social run held every weekend - rain, hail or shine. Parkrun CEO Tim Oberg joins me to talk about how he brought the Parkrun concept to Australia from the UK, and has built it to more than 350 locations holding weekly events with over 500,000 people taking part. We talk about its huge success, what the future plans are for Parkrun, and why Tim decided to make a business out of fitness.   www.parkrun.com.au @parkrunAU   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook and LinkedIn

“We’ve got the technology that can help save a species.” This week is a very different episode for me - but a really amazing and important story. I’m joined by cricket legend Kevin Pieterson and David Wild, who is the chief technology officer at Cisco Systems, one of the biggest tech companies in the world.  They have teamed up to make a documentary called ‘Save This Rhino’, which tells the story of how Cisco’s incredible technology is helping save an entire species of rhinoceros in South Africa. The two-part doco will air on National Geographic on April 23 and 30, and is a must-watch. On the podcast, we talk about how this project came about, why it was close to Kevin’s heart, and how Dave and a big business like Cisco wanted to use their capital and abilities to help with such an important conservation project.  The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook and LinkedIn

“People at work want something healthy." Conor Reynolds is the founder of Snackwize, delivering healthy snack boxes to corporate clients all around Australia and New Zealand. His business is giving office workers the choice of reaching for a snack with no artificial colours, flavours or presevtavies for the mid-afternoon munchies, instead of relying on vending machines to get them through the day. We talk about how Conor started the business while he was still working another full time job, and the amount of effort that went into securing his very first client. He’s also about to launch a direct-to-consumer service as well and has big plans for the future - so make sure you tune in.  snackwize.com @snackwize   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook and LinkedIn

“What our customers wear has a big impact on their sense of self.” I’m joined by Dean Jones, the CEO of hugely successful fashion rental company, Glamcorner. I first met Dean many years ago on a pitch episode of the podcast, and it’s great to hear how the business has grown so much since that time. From the early days renting high-end ball gowns, Glamcorner has launched a subscription service allowing customers to rent three items for a month, including the option to swap items as you go. The user numbers and feedback is impressive, and is really shaking up the traditional concepts of owning clothes, fashion waste and cultivating a sense of style. We talk about everything from how the business started, right through to investment and how they wash 30 tonnes of clothes each month.  https://www.glamcorner.com.au/ @glamcornerau   Connect with Mark on Facebook and LinkedIn

“There’s no doubt in my mind, the NRL is in the entertainment business.” I’m joined by National Rugby League CEO, Todd Greenberg, who gives us an enormous insight into how he leads the business of the NRL. We talk about how Todd worked his way from a cricket game development officer into the NRL CEO position, how his family life influences his leadership approach, and most importantly, we dig deep into the business approach of the NRL. Todd and I talk about the tapping into the soap opera of sport, the NRL's competitors in the entertainment space, and why fast-tracking the women’s NRL competition was one of his smartest moves.   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook and LinkedIn

Ben Mills is the founder of Shelter, a space that combines fitness classes with relaxation and wellness. Shelter incorporates spin classes and boxing with ice baths, saunas and a custom juice bar - and Ben has big plans. We talk about the story behind Shelter, how to capitalise on the ‘Australian’ elements of a brand, particularly with a view to market that internationally, and why Ben wants to take Shelter overseas. We also talk about the name of the brand - and I don’t hold back with my thoughts!   www.the-shelter.com.au @shelterdoublebay   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook and LinkedIn

“We want to be the world’s biggest digital gym.” The fitness industry is a huge global business - and this episode I’m joined by one of its biggest Australian players, Tobi Pearce. Tobi and his partner, Kayla Itsines, run the online female fitness program, Sweat. The app has been downloaded more than 30 million times, topped the App Store charts in 142 countries, and the business is on track to make $100 million this year. We talk about how Tobi and Kayla combined their personal training businesses to build the Sweat brand, how much they know their users through data, and how they scale their business. Tobi has a massive global business and is nowhere near finished yet!  https://www.sweat.com/ @sweat The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook & Follow Mark on LinkedIn

“Everybody has a voice, and we want everyone to be the best they can be.” This week I’m joined by a special guest, Australia’s Treasurer, the Hon. Josh Frydenberg MP, to talk about his role in one of Australia’s toughest jobs. I get to know Josh a bit better - from his footy team, his background as a tennis player, and his family - as well as putting to him the big questions about the Australian economy and the future for small and big business in this country.  https://joshfrydenberg.com.au/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook & Follow Mark on LinkedIn

“Every day, 300,000 Australians wear a work uniform we’ve made.” Pamela Jabbour is the founder and CEO of Total Image Group, which has spend 14 years making corporate uniforms for brands like Woolworths, Dan Murphy’s, Ford and Pandora. Pam’s business is hugely successful, with 30 staff in Australia and 10 in China working to combine quality and function with style and fashion. We talk about how the business started, how Pam won her first big client (one with 30,000 staff!) and why Total Image Group has been a success.  https://www.totalimagegroup.com.au/ @totalimagegroup   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/

“We make people love their smiles." Alison Egan started her cosmetic teeth-whitening business when she was just 19 years old, and has grown it into an empire with thousands of clients and franchises right across Australia. We talk about how she leverages her Instagram following into clients, how she has a policy to only hire people smarter than she is, and her story about how Sparkling White Smile all began.  https://www.sparklingwhitesmile.com.au/ @sparklingwhitesmile  Join Mark Bouris at the Mentor Masterclass live event in February 2019! Dates and ticket information are available here: http://www.mentor-masterclass.com.au/?ls=394582 The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/

“Technology is an enabler for future jobs, not a replacement.” I’m joined by Walter Davey, who co-founded the Australian hydraulics business Pirtek in the 1980, before successfully exiting the business in 2000. He’s been successful in many other businesses as well, and we talk about what it takes to really build a successful brand over time. Wally and I discuss the effects of technology on business, how to spot a rising tide, and why you should always take good opportunities quickly. https://pirtek.com.au/   Join Mark Bouris at the Mentor Masterclass live event in February 2019! Dates and ticket information are available here: http://www.mentor-masterclass.com.au/?ls=394582   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/

“Big business needs small business.” This week we have a special guest, Prime Minister the Hon. Scott Morrison MP. He joined us last year when he was Treasurer and we talk about how his life has changed since taking on the top job of the country. We discuss the economy, why big business needs small businesses to survive, and how he wants to cut unemployment to help the entire business ecosystem succeed.

Furniture is fashion, and Aussies are very house proud.” Dave and Scott Shedden from Oz Design Furniture join me to talk about their 40 years of business. Dave and Scott are the second generation taking over the family business, and we talk about what it’s like to grow up in the business, and then move into it full time. We also talk about the challenge of staying fashionable and relevant, and why furniture retail business is more competitive than ever.   https://ozdesignfurniture.com.au/ @ozdesignfurniture Join Mark Bouris at the Mentor Masterclass live event in February 2019! Dates and ticket information are available here: http://www.mentor-masterclass.com.au/?ls=394582 The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/

“It’s the best bit of steak I’ve ever tasted.” That’s my feedback on the Searsmiths barbecue, after founders Dave Thomassian and Paren Arzoomanian joined me to talk about their business. These two quit their jobs in 2016 to start up their own business called Searsmiths, and have gone through 12 prototypes of their barbecue ‘forge’ to reach today where they’re selling and looking to move into retailers. We talk about designing and manufacturing, dealing with industry certifications, and how the great Australian backyard dream of cooking the best barbecue is still well and truly alive. https://searsmiths.com/ @searsmiths Join Mark Bouris at the Mentor Masterclass live event in February 2019! Dates and ticket information are available here: http://www.mentor-masterclass.com.au/?ls=394582  The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/  Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/

"Mistakes happen. How you respond to them is key.” I’m joined by Captain Richard de Crespigny, most famous for piloting QF32, a Qantas A380 which experienced an explosion mid-air in 2010, to land safely for all passengers and crew on board. We previously spoke on the podcast several years ago, and since then Richard has released his second book, 'FLY!’. We talk about the QF32 incident and how he navigated through that disaster, and also how he applies neuroscience training to help build resilience. It’s a fascinating conversation about training your brain to perform better under pressure, and something everyone - not just business owners - will benefit from listening to.  Richard's website - https://qf32.aero/  Join Mark Bouris at the Mentor Masterclass live event in February 2019! Dates and ticket information are available here: http://www.mentor-masterclass.com.au/?ls=394582  The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/  Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/

“Having a mentor is not about theory, it’s about practical, usable resources that you can use straightaway.” Craig West joins me to talk about our Mentored business - and why it’s so important for every business owner to have a good mentor. We talk about why everyone needs to ask for help in business, how anybody can have a side hustle, and the dangerous side to the Aussie culture of 'having a go’ if you’re too stubborn to get a mentor.  https://mentored.com.au/ @mentored_au   Join Mark Bouris at the Mentor Masterclass live event in February 2019! Dates and ticket information are available here: http://www.mentor-masterclass.com.au/?ls=394582   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/   Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/

“Life hands you a bunch of cards and what’s the alternative to not playing them the best you can?” Matt Purcell is a fascinating guy - he runs a music and academic tuition school called The Green Room, is a youth worker, a life coach, has his own podcast, and is starting up a social media business in 2019. He’s got a lot on but manages to juggle all that with his family life as well. We talk about what keeps him creative, his approach to running businesses and why he wants to leverage off every interaction.  http://www.mattpurcell.com/ @mattpurcellofficial Join Mark Bouris at the Mentor Masterclass live event in February 2019! Dates and ticket information are available here: http://www.mentor-masterclass.com.au/?ls=394582   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/

“I choose this life and you don’t get a second chance.” Chad Taylor joins Mark Bouris to talk about his healthy meal delivery business, Fast Fuel Meals. They cover topics from how to grow teams, figuring out logistics, how to conquer fear and negative thoughts, and the defining moment in Chad’s life that completely changed his approach to business.  https://fastfuelmeals.com.au/ @fastfuelaus The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

“Sometimes you have to do something crazy.” Hear how Olivia Carr started her silk sleepwear business by jumping on a plane and hand-delivering products to the Kardashian family, and then figured out the rest later. It’s an amazing story. We talk about manufacturing issues, running a global business, and how to beat your competitors at their own game.  https://www.shhhsilk.com.au/ @shhhsilk The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

“You have to really love a person to go into business with them.” Adam and Belinda Macdougall join the podcast to talk about growing their business, which includes meal replacement shakes The Man Shake and The Lady Shake, and fitness programs The Man Challenge and The Lady Challenge. We talk about how tough it is starting a business with your partner and having two young kids, as well as the challenges around playing in the health food space, when you’re up against big corporations. Make sure you tune in!  https://www.themanshake.com.au/ http://www.theladyshake.com.au/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

Former Australian rugby union star Drew Mitchell talks about his new venture, the Australian arm of fitness marketplace ESquared Fitness. It’s an app connecting consumers with gyms and health clubs, to book exercise classes near them. We talk about what Drew’s taken from professional sport into business, and how he approaches taking risks.  @esquaredfitness_aus http://esq2.com.au/  The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

“It’s really important to tell your brand and company story.” Alexandra Sloane, Facebook’s Australian head of marketing, joins The Mentor to talk about how businesses can use story-telling on social media to find customers, grow their audiences and make more sales. Also joining us is Julie Mathers, founder of Flora & Fauna, Australians largest online store for eco-friendly products. Julie talks about how she grew her business from the ground up by creating communities on Facebook and Instagram, and how she tests and trials her Facebook marketing.  Links to content mentioned in the episode: https://business.facebook.com/ https://business.instagram.com/ https://facebook.com/business/e/mobile_studio https://www.floraandfauna.com.au/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

“Your employees are your company's value”. Tim Walmsley joins the podcast to talk about his business Bench On, which allows companies to put their under-utilised employees in short term contracts with other companies when they’re in between projects. It’s an interesting take on the changing workforce, helping keep people in their full-time work and helping businesses with their cash flow.  https://www.benchon.com.au/  The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

Turning plastic bottles into fashion - hear how Vera Yan and Katia Santilli have saved a quarter of a million plastic bottles from landfill with their custom fabric, and what it was like building the Nimble Activewear brand from their shared Bondi lounge room. The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by Julian Mitchell, the co-founder of a biotechnology company called Life Cykel, which is trying to change the world with mushrooms. The business started in 2015 and is developing milk products, sweeteners, clothing, supplements and more, all from native Australian mushrooms. To support that business is their “Shroom Room” mushroom growing kits, which allow people to grow mushrooms and sell back to the community. Life Cykel is a fascinating business and Julian is doing some really interesting work - make sure you tune in.  https://lifecykel.com/ @lifecykel  The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by one of Australia’s most recognisable faces of the health and fitness industry - Michelle Bridges. From early days as a teenager running her own fitness classes at school, through to close to a decade as a trainer on The Biggest Loser, Michelle is a business machine. She has her own clothing range in Big W, her own food range Delicious Nutritious at Woolworths, and her very successful online training business, 12WBT - what can’t she do?! We dig deep into Michelle’s motivation behind her fitness businesses, and why she cares so much about all the people whose lives she has changed. Don’t miss this one.  https://www.michellebridges.com.au/ @mishbridges The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week’s episode is a little different - I’m talking with a small business owner who has become a politician: Angela Vithoulkas. Angela and her brother ran the successful VIVO Cafe Group in Sydney for the last 18 years, and has been twice elected as an independent councillor for the City of Sydney. Angela’s also running as an independent in the upcoming by-election in the seat of Wentworth, currently held by Malcolm Turnbull. She’s a very busy woman! We talk about her background in business since a teenager, why she started the Small Business political party, and what motivates her. Tune in for an interesting conversation!  @thesbparty https://thesmallbusinessparty.com/    The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by Norm Black, the co-founder and CEO of online travel business, TripaDeal. Norm started the business in 2011 by selling luxury travel villas in Bali, and has now expanded rapidly around the world. He’s now got over 100 staff based out of Byron Bay, and 1000 contractors around the world, and has really had phenomenal growth over the last few years. We talk about how he manages the rapid growth of the business, his future plans, and how TripaDeal has been successful focussing on marketing to Baby Boomers.  https://www.tripadeal.com.au/ @tripadeal   The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by Emma Bannister, the founder and CEO of Presentation Studio, a business dedicated to improving pitches, PowerPoints and presentations all around the world. Emma started as a graphic designer, who quickly realised there are so many terrible presentations going around, and wanted to do something about it. 11 years, 2 kids and 32 full-time staff later, Presentation Studio has grown into a multi-million dollar enterprise working with the biggest corporations in Australia and Asia. Tune in to hear some tips on how you can make the perfect presentation.  https://www.presentationstudio.com/ @emmabpresents The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by Yasmin Border, founder of luxury Australian bath salt brand, The Soak Life. Yasmin’s bootstrapped her business for two years and has grown to have her products stocked in 32 retailers around the country. But like many business owners, she’s now at a crossroads about how best to grow The Soak Life, with questions about her product range, manufacturing, staffing and where she needs to turn next. We examine her challenges and talk over her next move - there’s something in this episode for everyone.  @thesoaklife https://thesoaklife.com/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

Emma Isaacs is the owner and CEO of Australia’s largest professional network for women, Business Chicks. She joins Mark Bouris to talk about how she grew Business Chicks to more than 45,000 members around Australia, running conferences and networking events. Emma moved to the USA in 2016 to try and grow the business there, but describes it as her biggest failure. She’s since pivoted to take a different tack which is launching very soon - and we go deep in looking at how that failure shaped her and helped her grow.  @businesschicks @emmaisaacs https://businesschicks.com/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week our episode is a little different. Mark is joined by Sean Dollinger, the founder and CEO of Namaste Technologies in Canada. Namaste is the world’s largest e-commerce platform focussed on selling cannabis products. We talk all about the way that cannabis products are being legalised around the world (although not yet in Australia!) and the emergence of a huge industry where Sean is riding the wave.  @namastetechnologies https://www.namastetechnologies.com/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by a real go-getter in the health space - Edwina Sharrock and her online antenatal classes start-up, Birth Beat. Birth Beat is an online platform running antenatal classes for pregnant women and their partners from conception through to after the baby is born, and it’s the only Australian online antenatal course that is recognised with a private health provider number. We talk about why Edwina started Birth Beat, what her future plans are, and how she want to help pregnant women and their partners get the best help possible.  The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by former elite netballer Sarah Wall and current Giants Netball captain Kimberlee Green to talk about their business, NETFIT Netball. NETFIT started out in 2012 as coaching clinics and netball gym classes, and has grown into a coaching, nutrition and training app that provides year-long health and fitness programs. With more than 1.2 million people playing netball in Australia, I think they’re onto something. We talk about what drives them, their personal backgrounds and their future plans for the business - so make sure you tune in.  https://netfitnetball.com.au/ @netfitnetball @kimmygee8 @netfitsarah The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by Pip Edwards, co-founder of activewear brand P.E Nation. After 17 years working in fashion, Pip took the plunge to start her own business in 2016, which is now stocked in over 200 retailers worldwide and has been worn by many famous faces, including the Kardashians. We talk all about clothes and fashion, as well as the emotional challenges of running a business. Pip has so much energy and has really big goals - including competing with the big players Nike and Adidas - so make sure you tune in.  @p.e.nation @pip_edwards1 https://pe-nation.com/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

I’m joined by Andrew Blachut from PropertyNow, a real estate company helping people sell their property privately, charging no commission to real estate agents. Their business is complicated by the big players that control the market - Real Estate and Domain - but they’ve grown to more than 2000 current active listings. We talk about how Andrew should get the word out in the market, who is competition is, and how the entire process works with selling property privately. It’s an interesting conversation about a growing market so make sure you tune in. http://www.propertynow.com.au/ @propertynowrealestate The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I am joined by chef Pete Evans to talk about his new business venture, Healthy Everyday Pets. It’s a pet food company aiming to be the healthiest animal food in the country. We talk about the business - but also a huge range of other topics, including wellness, authenticity and motivation. Pete is a fascinating and sometimes polarising guy - so it was interesting to hear from the man himself about what makes him tick.  https://peteevans.com/ @chefpeteevans The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by Sally and Jo Godfrey, who are the founders of grain-free bread business called No Grainer. They started the business because of necessity - being diabetic and coeliac - but they have since realised the market for grain-free products is skyrocketing. When I first met them on The Mentor TV show, they were close to shutting down - their fridge was broken, they had no business systems and weren’t making any money. We catch up about how they’re going since being on the show and whether they’re still putting into practice all the things we worked on. They’re two hilarious women with a great story - so make sure you tune in. https://www.nograiner.com.au/ @nograineraustralia The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week we’re joined by Joey Scandizzo, just after he’s announced as the Australian Hairdresser of the Year for an incredible fourth time. We talk about how he got into the game and why he keeps entering awards, how to build a team culture where nobody wants to leave, and how his products range, Eleven Australia, came to be so successful.  @joeyscandizzo http://www.joeyscandizzo.com.au/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris 1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week I’m joined by Jaye Edwards, founder of hair salon group Edwards and Co. He’s only 28 but has 6 salons around Australia, built on innovation by hiring a mix of employees and contractors - and maximising the earning potential for both of them. He’s a gun at social media, using influencers, recruiting and training, and has a really sharp business mind. We talk about everything that’s happened from his humble beginnings as an apprentice and I ask why he’s so bent on improving himself. The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week my guest is Kate Gibbs, the owner and principal of Stratosphere Performing Arts, a dancing studio in Sydneys north-west. We figure out what Kate's really in the business of doing - and how her story is similar to many small businesses owners in Australia. We look at fee structures, keeping professional distance from clients, and how systems and processes can make a huge difference.

This week we talk about one of the hottest topics around - cryptocurrency. Kain Warwick is the founder of a new Australian cryptocurrency called Havven, which is currently selling tokens and holding its official ICO in March. In the episode, Kain explains in simple terms what cryptocurrency and blockchain are and how the system works. We also talk about how he's creating a 'stable coin' that's less volatile in the market compared to other cryptocurrencies, and how he stays ahead of the curve. Website: https://havven.io/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week Mark is joined by Lindsay Lyon, the owner and CEO of Shark Shield - the only scientifically proven and independently tested electronic shark repellent. We talk about technology innovation, patents, business growth and going public - and the impacts their technology might have over the next decade. He's a fascinating guy with a great business, so make sure you tune in. Website: https://sharkshield.com/ Social: @shark_shield The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This week my guest is Cam Northway, founder of drinks agency Sweet&Chilli. From humble beginnings designing cocktail menus for bars in 2006, they now have offices in Australia, USA and UK and hundreds of staff. Cam's business specialises in consultancy for bar and restaurant design, bar staff training, and events design and management- capitalising on the enormous nightlife culture worldwide. We talk about pitching your services to big beverage conglomerates, how to keep high-quality staff, and what's next for the drinks industry. Social: https://www.facebook.com/SweetandChilli https://www.instagram.com/sweetandchillidrinks/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

This episode is a bit different for The Mentor, talking with the founder of not-for-profit organisation Seven Women, Stephanie Woollard. Mark and Steph talk about the challenges that face every entrepreneur in running a business - growing sustainably, managing burnout, overcoming obstacles, and finding funding - and how it's important for all charities to think like corporate businesses in running well. It's a great conversation with takeaways for anyone running - or thinking about - running a business or not-for-profit. Find out more about Seven Women on Facebook @SevenWomenStore, Instagram @sevenwomen and their website sevenwomen.org The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

In our first podcast for 2018, Mark talks with Mario and Alex from Spriggy, a digital pocket-money tool for children. With Spriggy, parents put money onto a card for their kids who can save and spend money and set financial goals - while parents can track and monitor everything from the app. We talk about teaching financial literacy, the Spriggy business model, and how to influence behaviour with digital tools. Find out more on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @Spriggyofficial Airtree Ventures - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1LoF39WfiwJOpivK5xDZ7ZXjLCME07nWcKxjlD2a2Ih8/edit#gid=2136785868 The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

Mark is joined by a special guest: celebrity chef, restauranteur and fellow PodcastOne host, Gary Mehigan. They talk about Gary's rise from working as an apprentice chef to working in Michelin-hatted restaurants, and then the journey of owning and running restaurants and cafes. Gary opens up about how hard it is to build a brand, working as a media personality, and figuring out the numbers game while running a kitchen. Listen to Gary's podcast, A Plate To Call Home: https://www.podcastone.com.au/A-Plate-to-Call-Home The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

Mark speaks to Madelienne Anderson and Rebecca Fox, the founders of a markets business in Sydney's eastern suburbs - Cambridge Markets. They're being counter-intuitive to everyone obsessed with online retail (Amazon, anyone?) and building a thriving physical marketplace for thousands of customers, with local business vendors selling premium quality goods. We talk about shopping habits, building communities and how to scale a business thats dependent on the weather. Find out more on Instagram and Facebook @cambridgemarketssydney The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores

Mark takes a look at digital and creative agencies - with one man who has both worked for them and started his own. Kiel Van Daal is the co-founder of Digilante, an agency with a streamlined, agile approach to delivering rebrands and digital creative. They talk about the traditional agency model, the continuous challenge of innovation, and how Kiel works hard to avoid turning into the type of agency he's trying to avoid as Digilante grows. Find out more: http://digilante.com.au/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Mark has a very special guest this week - the Australian Treasurer, the Hon. Scott Morrison MP. He and Mark talk about the government's Small Business Digital Taskforce that Mark will be chairing, looking at all the digital tools available to small business owners to improve their productivity, efficiency and work/life balance. More importantly though, the taskforce will be examining all the barriers keeping small businesses away from using these digital tools. Mark also has an open chat with the Treasurer on what got him into politics, why he values small businesses and the importance of community service a rare insight into one of this country's key decision makers. Find out more about the Small Business Digital Taskforce: https://www.industry.gov.au/smallbusiness/Pages/Small-Business-Digital-Taskforce.aspx Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

This week Mark talks partnerships and cross promotion - in the interests of collaboration for business. His guest is Jess Ruhfus, the founder of Collabosaurus, which is a match-making platform for big brands and small businesses. The site connects businesses with similar goals and audiences, taking lots of time and hard work out of the partnership process. They speak about how she built the tech, about growing and evolving your business idea, and how it is always a hard slog to build something that works. Find out more: https://collabosaurus.com/ The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Things get a bit fiery this week - talking about the challenges facing the restaurant industry with all its rules and regulations. Our guest is Antonio Ruggerino, owner and chef at Verde Restaurant + Bar in Sydney. Antonio tells Mark how council and government make running a restaurant hard business, as well as the challenges of finding staff who excel in hospitality. They talk about innovation, nightlife habits, food delivery services and more. Find out more: https://verderestaurant.com.au/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Mark talks to Ben Wong and Charbel Zeaiter, the founders of digital education company Academy Xi. They specialise in courses in areas such as virtual reality, augmented reality, user experience design and growth marketing and recently closed a $2.25 million investment round. These two are really committed to teaching critical digital skills to a new wave of the workforce. We discuss raising capital, figuring out your brand position and how to remain agile in the fast-moving tech innovation space. Find out more: https://academyxi.com/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Mark speaks to Denan Kemp - a former NRL player who has launched a beer company, designed to be the perfect companion for watching the footy at the pub or on the couch. He is also the host of his own sports interview show on Facebook, called 'The Locker Room'. We discuss the challenges of starting a business with your partner, how to grow a business while minimising risk, and how important brand identity is when starting a beer business. Find out more: http://www.blokeinabar.com/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Mark speaks with a man in the business of coaching. Marcus West has been a presentation coach for 20 years and recently started an online platform to help salespeople with their training process. Users can rehearse their pitches and presentations, get feedback from a coach or their manager, and share with other users in their workplace. It's a great conversation about the theatre and art of selling and how to create the perfect pitch. Find out more: http://60seconds.com/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

All pet owners have experienced the problem where it's hard to get out-of-hours medical advice from a vet for peace of mind. This weeks guest is solving that problem. VetChat connects people with vets for video consultations and text chats to help give on-call medical advice. We talk about the business model, getting vets on board and the future plans. Find out more: https://www.vetchat.com.au/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Mark talks to Alex Houseman, the founder of Over The Moo, a dairy-free ice cream company born out of necessity - Alex is lactose intolerant. Over The Moo is now in Woolworths, IGA and Foodworks around Australia and looking to expand internationally. Mark and Alex talk about business models, creating exotic flavours and when is the right time to look for investors. Find out more: http://overthemoo.com.au/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Mark sits down with former Olympic swimming champion Michael Klim about his skincare business, MILK & Co. Michael's company has been around for almost a decade, with his skincare range in 3000 stores domestically. Mark and Klimmy talk about starting a brand from scratch, expanding into Asia and why work-life balance is so important when running a global business. Find out more: http://www.milkandco.com.au/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Mark talks to Cameron Harrison and John Treloar, who went from running a mobile bicycle repair van to providing bike service options for businesses and buildings all around Sydney. They're also involved in selling electric bikes, encouraging more people to be active without having to break a sweat with a motor-assisted ride. They discuss the future of the business with more people riding bikes, and what's coming up next. Find out more: https://www.therollingfix.com/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau Download the PodcastOne app from the Apple and Google Play app stores.

Mark talks to Sam Canavan from Sport Heroes. They're an app that links to your fitness tracker and offers you rewards, discounts from brands, exclusive offers and prizes, just for exercising - effectively frequent flyer points for your activity. They talk about hacking into Nike, tracking data and the huge opportunities ahead for the business. Find out more: https://www.sportheroesgroup.com/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau

This week, Mark focuses on a business that serves man's best friend - their pets. Adam, Scott and Holly are the founders of Raw and Fresh Pet Food, which has grown from working in a shipping container in the back yard to producing and delivering two tonnes of made-to-order fresh pet food each week. They've done it all themselves and are now ready to franchise and scale up. Find out more: https://eastcoastdogs.com.au/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau

Mark talks with Christie Whitehill, who made her first move into the tech world with a dating app that was blown out of the water by Tinder. Since then she's launched Hatching Lab, an innovation partner and software developer for large corporates and startups; and a program called Tech Ready Women supporting other women turn their tech ideas into reality. http://hatchinglab.com/ http://techreadyprogram.com/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau

Mark speaks to Nick Langton, the co-founder of Wimp 2 Warrior, a 22-week mixed martial arts program in gyms worldwide, training amateurs to be ready for their first fight. It is backed by some of MMA's biggest names including John Kavanagh and Conor McGregor - and has ambitious growth plans. Nick talks about going global, the challenges of raising capital and why anyone who does the program deserves to be called a warrior. http://wimp2warrior.com/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau

This week Mark sits down with woman credited with coining the term "activewear", Lorna Jane Clarkson - the founder of the hugely successful Lorna Jane fashion label. Lorna Jane talks about her humble beginnings in a gym 29 years ago, the biggest challenges in her career, tall poppy syndrome, and why budding entrepreneurs should just go for it. Lorna Jane Clarkson's new book is 'Love You'. https://www.lornajane.com.au/ Find The Mentor with Mark Bouris on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Mentor-with-Mark-Bouris-1856511097942514/ Follow Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbouris/ Find PodcastOne Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastoneau/ Follow PodcastOne Australia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/podcastoneau

This week Mark speaks to Martin Halphen, who took his business The Fruit Box Group from delivering fresh fruit to 300 households in Melbourne to more than 30,000 deliveries each week around Australia. Hear how he did it and what he plans to do next. Find our more: https://www.thefruitbox.com.au/

This week Mark speaks to Phil Scardigno, the founder of online DIY retailer Monsta. Monsta is cutting out the middle man selling paint and other DIY products directly to consumers, and using technology to provide easy support and advice. The conversation isn't just about taking on the big boys, it's about manufacturing in Australia, marketing, social media, engaging with customers and how to grow your team.

First up this week on The Mentor is Melissa Morphet - whose wellness product Be Broth, an Aussie-first ready to drink bone broth - is now selling in Woolworths. Then Mark speaks to James Kitchener who runs Jack Media, a lead generation and sales agency living the dream based out of Byron Bay. Be Broth: https://bebroth.com.au/ Jack Media: https://www.jackmedia.com/

This a special episode with former NRL player Alex McKinnon. After a life-changing injury ended his footy career in 2014, Alex has since quit his role in recruitment at the Newcastle Knights to start a new career in business. Mark sat down with Alex and his fiancée Teigan to talk through all the things he needs to work on when it comes to speaking, team building and working with corporates. Alex is very driven in growing the next stage of his life.

Our first guest is Mark Ferguson - a basketball player turned tailor - running Wil Valor, a bespoke menswear business. Mark then speaks to Patrick Kidd, the head of men's hair and skincare range Patricks, which sells in luxury department stores all around the world. Two very interesting guys taking on the higher end of the men's grooming business.

Mark speaks to two businesses in very different growth phases. First up: Dany Milham and Mitch Taylor, the founders of Koala Mattress about their incredible growth since launching in 2015. Mark is then joined by the delightful Sammi Hardwick, founder of Double Tap Agency, a new social media and digital marketing agency just getting off the ground.

Mark goes into the nuts and bolts of business partnerships. First up is Kate Morris, founder of online retailer Adore Beauty, which partnered with Woolworths for two years before buying back their share. Then Mark speaks to Danny May, whose real-time translation earpiece and app Lingmo has recently partnered with IBM.

Mark speaks to Rebecca Klodinsky, the founder of Frankie Swimwear about her growth into a global business from zero background in fashion. Mark also talks about patience in business with Jack Perkins and Alex Peck from Parallel Parking, an app allowing people to lease their garages and driveways to people needing a car spot.

The founders of two different out-sourcing businesses are on the show. Brendan Green from Hire A Hubby talks about the rise of the handyman over the last 20 years, and we talk virtual assistants and business strategies with Barbara Turley from Virtual Angel Hub.

This week Mark speaks to two successful services businesses. Bec Brown from The Comms Department gives us some great insights about PR, managing communications and Donald Trump; and Ezra Auperle from SixtyFour Films talks us through the changing video production industry.

In the first episode of The Mentor, Mark Bouris talks to Nathan Lennon and Dave Gibson from Hawkes Brewing Co about launching a beer company with Bob Hawke, and Troy Douglas, one of the founders of Nexba natural, sugar-free drinks.

It was a great pleasure to have chef and businessman Luke Mangan in the studio today! We talked about Lukes journey from being an apprentice chef to owning 21 restaurants with more than 700 staff including his new fast food venture, Chicken Confidential. Lukes got an incredible story about sticking it out and finding success in a tough industry, so make sure you tune in.

Today I had the pleasure of meeting two young business owners from very different fields. First up is a great chat with Libby Gardner, who runs The Platter Project, about the importance of growing at your own pace. Then I speak to Luke Beeton from Sailor Studio design agency about all the things that keep a business owner up at night and why we start our businesses in the first place. Make sure you tune in!

This week Im talking all things travel! Our first guest is Janeece Keller, founder of Bound Round, a family travel app and website seeing destinations through the eyes of kids. And secondly, Gabriel Sarajinsky, founder of HomeHost, Australias first property management business for Airbnb. Great conversation about two exciting and growing businesses, make sure you tune in.

This week we talk to two businesses at opposite ends of the education spectrum. First up is Pete Neill from Code Camp, which runs workshops teaching primary school kids how to make their own iPhone apps. And second is Selena Mazuran, founder of FBI Fashion College teaching the ins and outs of the fashion business. Make sure you tune in!

This week were going natural! First up I talk to Chris Matthews and Kieran Harrison from Little Urchin, a natural sunscreen which was launched in 2016, and then we chat with Irene Falcone who founded natural skincare and beauty product store Nourished Life in 2012. Some really great insights from two excellent growing businesses make sure you tune in.

Outstanding episode today, breaking down the challenges and opportunities in different parts of the fitness industry. We meet Kate Kendall and Ben Lucas from Flow Athletic and spoke about their business model and how they balance each others strengths and weaknesses. And we talk to Troy Henson from SES Taekwondo about expanding his passion into a viable full-time business. Make sure you tune in!

Things get a bit fiery in the studio this week which I love! It was great to chat to Stephen Jackson from Jackson Rowe Real Estate about training staff and when to step back from the business. I also talk with property stylist Mel Moloney about when and how to expand her business. Available on iTunes and our show website make sure you listen!

Great show today at Southern Cross studios, with two fantastic guests! Two dudes who are really shaking up the food industry. Khaisser Khater, co-owner of Dessert Boxes joins us to talk about his delicious & decadent desert boxes and his war on boring gifts. We also get the answer to the Monday to Friday grind of what to eat and how to prepare it, with David Malcom and his business Marley Spoon. Hope you guys can tune in!

TMBS is back for 2017, asking the hard hitting questions of the Australian business sector. Tune in guys, were in a new studio and have announced some exciting plans for the rest of the year.

Kumar Manix and Marnie Flanagan couldnt be in more different businesses, Kumar (The Space Ship) the world of video games, and Marnie (Naturally Wild Produce) selling exotic meats like crocodile and other tasty treats. Was a great pleasure having these two operators on the show and listening to their insights on two massive but often overlooked industries.

If youre keen to finally get into the Aussie property market, then this episodes for you! Anthony Millet and his company Brick X are changing the game, so that every Aussie can achieve the dream and own a slice of the Australian property market. Hope you all enjoy!

This week, we have two of our well deserving guests that didnt squeeze into the end of last year. All three of them are challenging the status quo to be bigger and better! Nick & Shane from Kapuddle are re-defining the car-sharing space with a truly authentic carpooling option and Amanda Rose is representing the women around Australia, especially in Western Sydney on a whole new level. Enjoy!

Theres no age limit to joining The Mark Bouris Show! Lochie Graham is a 13-year-old boy with an old soul and a big heart! He joined us on the show to talk about the charity he set up with Jerry Lewis, Jerrys Kids. Its all about humour therapy, where they bring laughter to sick kids. Such a great cause, make sure you check him out!

Two great examples of everyday ingenuity at work on the MB Show today. Jason Loft from Pedals Espresso and Tim Jones from Travelshoot are now reaping the rewards of simple and well executed business models. Humble but clever, and certainly testament to the fact that you dont need to be a rocket scientist to make a buck!

With so many great guests this year, we thought it was about time for another best of episode. An interesting collection for our 58th episode; a footballer (Adam MacDougall), a surfer (Tom Carroll), a pilot (Richard de Crespigny) and a chef (Guillaume Brahimi). Hope you guys enjoy it!

They eat, sleep and work together and theyre not even married! Mark Cronje and Christopher McCorry jumped off a ledge 6 months ago to start http://spcagent.io/ and are living proof that if you want something bad enough youll find a way to make it happen, even if youre not an expert! We really explored the back yourself mentality today hope you enjoy the chat!

Reverse podcast and an interesting perspective change today. The lovely ladies from The Ladies Lounge join Mark in the X Studio to talk about podcasting, business, family and generally what makes him tick. Enjoy!

Aussies love property as an asset class, but with popularity comes price pressure, making it a tough market to get into! Today on TMBS, Mark has invited experts Anna Porter and Fiona Nadaya to share their insights on owning your first home or investment property much sooner than you think. P.S. Mark will be hosting his Prosperity through Property seminars over the coming weeks too, so if youd like to know more grab a couple tickets here: https://campaigns.ybr.com.au/markbouris/index.cfm.

Apologies everyone, we forgot to post this episode a couple weeks back. Plenty of good stuff though on emotional resilience, pivoting and the skill of moving forward. FYI, RBA information may be a little dated. Enjoy!

The parallels between sport and business produce great lessons for both sides of the fence. World surfing champion, big wave rider, entrepreneur and all round legend, Tom Carroll joins TMBS this week to share his insights on fighting fear and controlling emotion in high pressure situations. If nothing else, Toms story is a seriously good yarn enjoy!