Future Fit Leadership

When the FBI knocked on Kevin McCarthy’s door one morning in 2002, everything he thought he knew about integrity, loyalty, and trust shattered. What followed was a federal conviction for a crime he didn’t mean to commit, spending 33 months in prison that changed his life forever. In this deeply human conversation, Kevin shares how good people can make bad choices, what blind spots really look like in leadership, and how to rebuild your life and your sense of self when everything falls apart. From the moment the FBI entered his home to the lessons learned behind prison walls, Kevin’s story is one of self-awareness, humility, and the power of owning our mistakes. He reminds us that leadership isn’t about perfection it’s about perspective. It’s about learning to see what we once couldn’t, and finding integrity in the space between moral intent and legal reality. This is a conversation about humanity, not hierarchy. Please enjoy this powerful story with Kevin McCarthy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes a leader truly future fit in a world where AI can attend your meetings, interview your staff, and even write your next LinkedIn post? In this lively and thought-provoking conversation, futurist and best-selling author Michael McQueen joins Sadhana Smiles to unpack what it really means to stay relevant, human, and adaptable as technology reshapes the way we lead and work. They explore everything from Gen Z’s reluctance to take on leadership roles, to why “culture is caught, not taught,” and how real trust is built in a world full of deepfakes and digital avatars. Michael shares why the best leaders of tomorrow will blend confidence, conviction, and curiosity — and how to lead with both head and heart in the age of AI. Please enjoy this conversation with the insightful and always entertaining Michael McQueen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monica Bradley’s career has been anything but conventional — spanning trade, logistics, government, technology, and impact investing. In this Future Fit Leadership conversation, she shares how curiosity, contribution, and courage shaped her path from regional Queensland to boardrooms across the globe. Monica unpacks her mantra of growth without compromise which is a bold philosophy that challenges leaders to build organisations that drive profit, purpose, and planetary health in equal measure. From redefining value in the economy to reimagining how we lead through uncertainty, Monica brings deep wisdom and an infectious optimism for what’s next. Monica Bradley is a strategist, changemaker, and proud champion of curiosity, creativity, and kindness in leadership.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

George Haros and Deivina Peethamparam from Gadens Lawyers join me to explore one of the fastest-evolving frontiers in leadership — psychological and psychosocial safety. They unpack what today’s laws demand from leaders, where most organisations fall short, and why emotional intelligence now matters as much as compliance. From trust and vulnerability to reproductive health and hybrid workplaces, this conversation gets real about what it takes to build teams that hum — safe, connected, and human.

At 26, Lisa O’Neill’s body gave out before her mind did. What followed was a radical reset, a crash course in energy, healing, and self-awareness that would shape everything she teaches today. In this conversation, Lisa shares the story behind Energy: Get It. Guard It. Give It., and what it really means to manage energy, not time. From adrenal fatigue to four children and nine books later, she has built a life around purpose, colour, and courage teaching leaders to stop leaking energy, start leading themselves, and live with intention. Lisa also opens up about her early life in fashion, the psychology of colour, and the powerful shift that happens when women stop minimising themselves and step fully into who they are.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leaders are contagious. That is where Michelle McQuaid begins. In this episode we explore how a leader’s state shapes a team’s energy, focus, courage and care, and why self compassion is not a soft option but a competitive advantage. Michelle is a positive psychology expert, best-selling author and LinkedIn Top 10 mental health voice who blends evidence with lived experience. Her latest book, The Perfectly Imperfect Little Girl, unpacks how good girl conditioning still nudges women’s confidence, decisions and leadership, and offers practical ways to lead with authenticity and resilience. We talk secure attachment to self, real psychosocial safety, burnout signals, and the simple habits that steady your nervous system in seasons of change. If you want your team to think clearly and thrive under pressure, this conversation is for you. Please enjoy my exchange with Michelle McQuaid.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catherine Fox AM has spent her career asking tough questions about leadership and even tougher ones about the systems that shape it. An award-winning journalist, author, and former editor at Boss Magazine, Catherine has spent decades reporting on power, progress, and the invisible barriers that hold people back. In this conversation, she shares what she’s learned about leadership from the newsroom to the boardroom from myths that refuse to die, to the moments that redefine what real leadership looks like. We explore the themes from her bestselling books Stop Fixing Women, Seven Myths About Women & Work, and Breaking the Boss Bias and why she believes we’re overdue for a new conversation about power, bias, and what makes a truly self-aware leader. Catherine was bought to you by Saxton Speakers - https://www.saxton.com.au/speakers/catherine-foxSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to keep your energy high, lead through change, and stay future fit in a world that never stops moving? In this conversation, Josh Phegan shares the lessons he learned from growing up surrounded by books and cassette tapes of Zig Ziglar and Brian Tracy, through to becoming one of the most recognised performance coaches in our industry. We talk about confidence as a skill you can build, why feedback works best “in the car on the way back from an appointment,” and how leaders can avoid burnout by managing energy, not time. Josh also unpacks his five–step change management process, his rituals for keeping strategy front and centre, and why excellence isn’t a lofty concept but something you practice in every single moment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From a pineapple farm on Kubi Kubi country to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Renee Wooton’s journey is anything but ordinary. A proud First Nations aerospace engineer, leader in sustainable aviation fuel, and Boss Young Executive, Renee has faced adversity with grit, curiosity, and courage. In this conversation, she shares her story of resilience, breaking barriers in STEM, and how Indigenous wisdom is shaping her leadership philosophy today. We talk about belonging, cultural strength, sustainability, and the future of aviation. Renee’s message is clear: leadership is about staying true to your values, expanding the room for others, and building a future where people, planet, and purpose are in balance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Griffith has spent three decades helping elite athletes and hard-charging executives perform without burning out. In this conversation we unpack why stress is the quiet saboteur of leadership, and why meditation is not a fad but a recovery tool that gives you rest deeper than sleep in just 20 minutes. Steve shares how his six month holistic leadership program builds self leadership, one on one relationships, and accountable teams, and why change only sticks when it is practised, coached, and measured. We talk about the hour of power, staying above the line, integrity with yourself, and what it takes to scale wellbeing across construction sites, local councils, and fast moving real estate teams. We look ahead to a future where self awareness, values, and inner resilience are non negotiable for leaders. Forget the app. Close your eyes. Please enjoy this conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From high school entrepreneur to CEO of one of Australia’s fastest-growing companies, Scott Millar has never played by the rules. Nicknamed the “Teenage Entrepreneur” by the media, Scott turned down the traditional career path to build a business that helps organisations connect with Gen Z and future generations. In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, Scott shares how curiosity, courage, and creativity have shaped his journey. We talk about why Gen Z leaders are rewriting the playbook, what it means to thrive in a world of constant change, and why the best leaders of tomorrow will be those who aren’t afraid to rewrite the rules today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if you only had 4000 Sundays in your lifetime? And what if the way you work today is quietly stealing them away? In this conversation, Dr Kristy Goodwin takes us inside her own life-altering wake-up call — a moment in a Code Red hospital ward that forced her to confront burnout, mortality, and the “success tax” so many high performers pay. Kristy shares why our bodies keep score, how to stop crawling to Friday and start arriving at Sunday fully alive, and why protecting your focus, energy, and relationships is non-negotiable if you want to lead into the future. This is not just about wellbeing, it’s about the kind of leaders we choose to become — human-first, sustainable, and fiercely intentional.

Kate Mason’s leadership journey is anything but ordinary. From touring with Paul McCartney to leading culture and transformation across global giants like Coca-Cola Amatil, Amcor, and Credit Suisse, Kate has sat at the biggest tables — and now she’s rewriting the rules of leadership with her business, Social Value. In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, Kate shares powerful lessons on building diverse CEO pipelines, moving from performative to purposeful leadership, and why culture is more than words on a wall. She opens up about the personal cost of leadership, her lived experience as a lifelong carer, and the insights she brings to helping leaders balance performance with purpose. If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with heart, avoid the traps of burnout, and create real social impact — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to lead with impact when the world won’t stop changing? In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Holly Ransom — author of The Leading Edge, global speaker, and one of Australia’s boldest leadership voices. Holly shares the lessons that shaped her, from her grandmother’s courage in standing up for others to the mantra that if you “walk past it, you tell the world it’s okay.” We talk about why method — not mindset — is the biggest gap in leadership, why mattering at work transforms culture, and why adaptability, courage, and curiosity will define the leaders of the future. A sharp, energising conversation with insights from Holly’s own journey and her conversations with leaders like Barack Obama and Richard Branson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if optimism wasn’t just a personal trait, but a leadership strategy? In this Spotlight episode, we’re joined by Victor Perton, founder and Chief Optimism Officer at the Centre for Optimism. Victor shares why declining optimism is one of the greatest public policy challenges of our time — and why the leaders of the future must be “magnetic optimists.” He unpacks what it means to lead with infectious energy, how optimism builds trust, resilience, and innovation, and why every CEO should be asking their teams: “What makes you optimistic?” A joyful, compelling conversation for every leader who wants to shape a better future — by starting with belief.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Spotlight episode, Michelle Redfern calls on leaders to take radical accountability — not just for results, but for developing people. She shares why skills are the defining currency of the future, why too many leaders still overlook talent development, and how inclusive workplace design can unlock untapped potential. From leadership brand to business intelligence, Michelle breaks down her BQ-EQ-SQ model and challenges leaders to lead with intention, integrity, and a clear sense of purpose.

Nik Robinson, founder of purpose-led brand Good Citizens, joins us for this episode of the Future Fit Spotlight series. Known for turning plastic waste into stylish, 100% recycled sunglasses—and doing it alongside his two young sons—Nik brings an honest, refreshing take on what it really means to lead with purpose, courage, and collaboration. In this candid conversation, Nik shares why vulnerability is a superpower, how his kids challenge him to think differently, and why the best leadership doesn’t come from the top down—it comes from listening deeply, embracing discomfort, and staying curious.

In this episode of our Future Fit Leadership Spotlight series, demographer and social researcher Ashly Fell explores how generational change is reshaping the workforce—and what leaders need to do about it. From Gen Z’s expectations of purpose and flexibility to the future of workplace culture and trust, Ashly brings a fresh, data-backed lens to leadership. If you’re managing multi-gen teams or designing culture for the future, this conversation is essential listening.

Michelle Loader is the Managing Director of Future Leadership — an organisation shaping the future of board and executive capability in Australia. In this Spotlight episode, Michelle shares the three traits she believes are essential for future-fit leaders, the underestimated risks and opportunities of AI, and why empathy is now a business-critical skill. It’s a grounded and insightful conversation about what it takes to lead with humanity, clarity, and courage in a fast-changing world.

In this episode of our Future Fit Leadership Spotlight series, futurist and workforce expert Ben Hamer shares what it takes to lead in a rapidly changing world. From the underestimated power of curiosity to the rise of Gen Z in the workforce, Ben challenges outdated assumptions and urges leaders to prioritise adaptability, energy over time, and human connection. This short conversation is packed with forward-thinking insights—from managing energy instead of hours, to rethinking what younger generations value most at work.

What if leadership wasn’t about being the loudest in the room — but the most human? In this episode, Penny Locaso, behavioural scientist and founder of the Impact Makers movement, shares a bold vision for the future of leadership — one built on compassion, long-term thinking, and women leading unapologetically on their own terms. Penny challenges traditional leadership models and explains why the next era of leaders must stop asking for permission and start defining success by impact, not ego. If you’ve ever questioned how leadership should feel — this conversation will shift your thinking.

What if the best leaders of the future aren’t the ones with all the answers — but the ones who ask better questions? In this episode of our Future Fit Spotlight series, trusted advisor and business strategist Michelle Broadbent reflects on the leadership qualities we’ll need most in the decade ahead: adaptability, empathy, and a clear, distraction-proof strategy. Michelle shares why we must shift from being the “expert in the room” to the enabler of others, and why redefining success — away from hustle and towards purpose — is not just a trend, but a necessity.

In a world where change is accelerating faster than ever, what does it take to lead with clarity and courage? Urban futurist and co-founder of Neighbourlytics, Lucinda Hartley, joins the Future Fit Leadership Spotlight to explore why curiosity, flexibility, and authenticity will define tomorrow’s leaders. She shares how speed is reshaping leadership, why perfection is holding us back, and what it means to lead with momentum — even when we don’t have all the answers. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pace of change, Lucinda offers a refreshing take on how to stay relevant, responsive, and human.

What happens when our technology evolves faster than we do? In this episode, strategic advisor and ethical business advocate Elliott Dellys reflects on the future of leadership in a rapidly changing world. Elliott shares why visionary thinking, resilience, and empathy aren’t just desirable leadership traits — they’re essential for navigating misinformation, rebuilding trust, and leading with purpose in an age of disruption. He also unpacks the role of adaptability, ethical business, and creating a legacy that goes beyond profit.

In this episode of our Future Fit Leadership Spotlight series, we hear from Dr Marianne Broadbent, global executive advisor, board director, and leadership educator. Marianne shares what it means to lead with a growth mindset, why we must become more comfortable with ambiguity, and how the rapid rise of geopolitical disruption is catching many leaders off guard. She also reflects on the power of calm leadership, the importance of staying curious, and why taking accountability with empathy will be one of the most essential leadership qualities in the decade ahead. This is a quick yet powerful conversation with one of Australia’s most respected voices on leadership and governance.

What does it really take to lead in a way that inspires trust, creativity, and collaboration? In this episode of our Future Fit Spotlight series, award-winning leadership and mindset specialist Tanja Lee shares why coherence—being in balance emotionally, mentally, and physically—is the essential leadership quality for the decade ahead. From the neuroscience of stress to creating cultures of innovation, Tanja offers powerful insights on how leaders can shift out of survival mode and into sustainable, purpose-driven influence. Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Right now, 735 million people face hunger and one in three of the world's population is malnourished. But the global food crisis is  the ‘elephant in the room' - too often ignored in political discussions and in the media. It's a climate crisis, a conflict crisis, and a cost-of-living crisis: it demands a massive and joined-up global response that is currently lacking. In a bid to meet the UN's second Sustainable Development Goal (SDG2) of zero hunger by 2030, one campaign is asking you to eat more beans. Its argument? Beans are cheap, long-lasting, nutritious, versatile, planet-friendly, and ubiquitous. Paul Newnham is the executive director of the SDG2 Advocacy Hub, which campaigns to achieve the UN's goal of ending hunger by 2030.  I promise you this podcast will get you reaching out for more beans in your next supermarket shop See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Karen Maher, an expert in workplace safety and culture, discusses the critical importance of building safe and inclusive workplaces. Maher shares her background, having experienced workplace harassment and bullying early in her career, which motivated her to specialise in this field. Maher emphasises that the impact of poor workplace behaviors, such as bullying and harassment, can be devastating, both for the individuals directly affected as well as the broader organization. She highlights common misconceptions, such as the belief that intent matters more than the actual impact of the behavior. Maher stresses that organizations have a duty of care to address these issues proactively, rather than reactively. The discussion covers the concept of "psychosocial safety" - the need to ensure not just physical safety, but also psychological safety in the workplace. Maher outlines key elements that organizations should consider when developing anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies, such as clear definitions, reporting mechanisms, and support systems for affected employees. Maher also emphasizes the critical role of leadership in setting the tone and modeling the desired behaviors. She shares success stories of organizations that have transformed their cultures by prioritizing respect, education, and a strong speak-up culture. Looking to the future, Maher anticipates increased regulatory scrutiny and prosecution of organizations that fail to provide safe workplaces, particularly around psychosocial hazards. She encourages businesses to be proactive in addressing these issues, rather than waiting for something to go wrong. Overall, the interview highlights the significant impact that workplace bullying and harassment can have, and the importance of organizations taking a comprehensive, preventative approach to building safe, inclusive, and high-performing work environments. To find out more https://www.karenmaher.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, we welcome David Knoff, Antarctic station leader and author of 537 Days of Winter. David's journey is one of resilience, adaptability, and the sheer mental fortitude required to lead a team through unprecedented isolation and extreme conditions. From managing resources and morale to navigating the mental toll of Antarctica's harsh environment—compounded by an unexpected pandemic lockdown—David shares powerful insights on crisis leadership and what it takes to keep a team motivated in the world's most remote and challenging location. Tune in for a unique conversation that delves into leadership, resilience, and the art of maintaining hope and connection, even when you're far from home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Elliott Dellys — founder and CEO of Phronesis, Australia’s first B Corp-certified cybersecurity firm. A former intelligence officer turned entrepreneur, Elliott is leading a very different kind of security conversation — one grounded not just in technology, but in ethics, leadership, and culture. Elliott believes cybersecurity is ultimately a people problem — and that the biggest risks we face aren’t just digital, they’re deeply human. From the rise of AI-powered cybercrime to the flawed systems that leave organisations vulnerable, this conversation goes far beyond firewalls. We explore: Why groupthink is one of the most dangerous threats inside modern organisations How fear, conformity, and poor leadership compromise security and innovation The myth of “hacking” — and what most businesses get wrong about risk What it means to build a values-driven company in an industry obsessed with fear His bold take on why Australia won’t meet its 2030 cybersecurity goals — and what real progress would look like Elliott also shares why he donates 10% of profits to social impact, why he built Phronesis around the Greek word for “practical wisdom,” and how philosophy remains his greatest leadership tool. This is a conversation about courage, systems thinking, and the urgent need for leaders who can think beyond compliance — and lead with conscience.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if your brand had a signature scent that made clients feel exactly what you wanted them to feel — trust, luxury, energy, nostalgia? In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with doctors-turned-entrepreneurs Suji and Jeeva, co-founders of BrandScent, the game-changing business behind some of Australia’s most memorable branded fragrances. From maternity leave side hustle to Shark Tank and scent tech innovation, their journey blends science, storytelling, and serious startup grit. We explore how scent influences behaviour, memory, and brand loyalty — and why scent might just be your most powerful (and overlooked) branding tool. If you’ve ever said, “This place smells like success,” this episode is for you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sami Makelainen is a global tech expert who’s worked across Finland, North America, and Australia. With a background in computer science and a passion for understanding how technology shapes society, Sami brings a uniquely human perspective to some of the most complex conversations in tech today. In this conversation we discuss: The erosion of critical thinking in the age of AI Why we should treat AI like a brand-new intern, not a CEO Shadow AI, organisational risk, and how culture is being reshaped Quantum computing, ethical tech, and the futures we're not planning for This is more than just a conversation about emerging technology.It’s a deep, honest look at how AI is changing leadership, communication, and the decisions that shape our world. Get ready for a conversation that will challenge your assumptions, stretch your thinking, and reveal why the next decade may be the most transformative in human history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Jodi Geddes – co-founder of Circle In, keynote speaker, and a passionate advocate for caregivers in the workplace. Jodi shares her remarkable journey of building (and selling) a global platform that supports working parents and caregivers across life stages – from parental leave to menopause and beyond. We talk about the reality of returning to work after children, what true empathy in leadership looks like, and how burnout can creep up on even the strongest among us. Jodi opens up about her personal experiences with burnout, the power of vulnerability, and why creating a psychologically safe, family-friendly workplace isn’t just nice to have – it’s essential. We also explore how leaders can role model care, build trust through storytelling, and rethink flexibility in a hybrid world. This is a must-listen for leaders ready to embrace whole-person leadership and for anyone navigating the beautiful, messy juggle of career and caregiving.

What does it mean to decolonise the health system? How do we shift from a system that wasn’t built for First Nations communities to one that recognises, respects, and integrates Indigenous knowledge and leadership? In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Dr. Ngaree Blow, a proud First Nations woman and a leader in public health, medical education, and Indigenous health advocacy. We explore her journey into medicine, the challenges she faced as an Indigenous medical student, and the systemic barriers that continue to impact First Nations health outcomes. Dr. Blow shares her vision for a healthcare system that is truly inclusive, where Indigenous ways of healing are valued, where representation in leadership drives better policy, and where First Nations communities no longer face the same health inequities that have existed for generations. We also discuss It’s a Mob Thing, her grassroots initiative that empowers Indigenous communities through culture and storytelling, and the upcoming It’s a Mob Thing Festival in Geelong on March 15. This conversation is about leadership, systemic change, and the power of representation. If we want a better, more equitable future, we need to start by listening to those who are leading the change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every year on International Women’s Day, we celebrate women’s achievements, we hear inspiring stories, and we applaud progress. But at our current pace, gender parity is still 130 years away—which begs the question: are we actually moving forward, or are we just talking about it? This year’s IWD theme is "Accelerate Action," and that’s exactly what we’re doing in this episode with Penny Locaso, whose latest research in her white paper Hidden Figures: Where Are All the Female Experts? exposes a critical barrier holding women back—their reluctance to own their expertise. We unpack the four key themes from her research, from the "ick" factor of the word expert to the invisible checklist women feel they have to complete before they step forward. We explore how fear of judgment, lack of visibility, and outdated leadership norms continue to sideline highly capable women—and why it’s time for leaders to take responsibility for creating a system where expertise isn’t just recognised, but actively elevated. This isn’t just a conversation for women. It’s a call to action for every leader, every organisation, and every decision-maker. If we truly want gender equity, we can’t just celebrate IWD—we need to use it as a moment of accountability. Penny shares powerful yet practical ways for leaders to step up, including one of the simplest but most impactful actions: publicly recognising and naming the expertise of the women around you. It’s time to stop talking about change and start driving it. If you’re serious about shifting the dial on gender equality, this is the episode you need to hear.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes you optimistic? It’s a question Victor Perton, founder of the Centre for Optimism, asks everyone he meets—and in this episode, he shares why infectious optimism is the key to great leadership, resilience, and joy. Optimistic leaders inspire confidence, drive innovation, and create cultures where people thrive. They see opportunities where others see obstacles and bring out the best in their teams, even in challenging times. From his family’s incredible refugee journey to shaping leadership narratives across the world, Victor’s passion for optimism is magnetic. He dives into how small habits—like asking "What's been the best thing in your day?"—can transform workplaces, politics, and personal lives. If you’ve ever needed a reason to embrace optimism, this episode will leave you inspired to find the joy in every moment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia needs 1.2 million new homes by 2029, but where will they go? And more importantly—who can afford them? In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Lucinda Hartley, urban designer and co-founder of Mondas, to unpack the biggest challenges and opportunities in housing today. From affordability struggles to alternative homeownership models, Lucinda shares practical solutions that could change the way Australians buy, rent, and invest in property.

Welcome to our first episode of Future Fit Leadership for 2025. Australia’s property market is constantly shifting—house prices, interest rates, global trends, and government policies all play a role. But what does it mean for you? In this episode we break down the latest data, analyse key market trends across every state, and discuss the impact of economic forces—(both local and global)—on property prices, affordability, and investment opportunities. Join us as we cut through the noise with expert insights and real talk about what’s driving Australian real estate. Let’s dive into the numbers that matter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thank you to all our guests for an awesome 2024, to our listeners for all your support. We look forward to sharing amazing guests with you in 2025. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we are focusing on female entrepreneurs who may be feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or stuck in your business?   Michelle Broadbent shares her remarkable journey from being the "woman behind the woman" in media startups to becoming a sought-after business coach. Discover practical insights on: Breaking through business growth barriers The importance of financial planning before launching Avoiding common partnership pitfalls Why taking breaks is crucial for business success Strategies for scaling from six-figure to seven-figure revenues Whether you're a solo entrepreneur, considering starting a business, or looking to transform your current venture, this episode offers invaluable wisdom on creating a business that truly supports the life you want to live.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a family decides to turn plastic waste into stylish, sustainable eyewear? Meet Nik Robinson and his children, who are revolutionising recycling through their brand, Good Citizens. In this inspiring episode, Nik shares the incredible journey of transforming 600ml plastic bottles into high-quality sunglasses, while involving his entire family - including his kids - in the mission to "untrash the planet". Discover how a simple conversation with his children sparked a business that's not just about making glasses, but about creating meaningful environmental change. Learn about: Turning 100% recycled plastic into fashionable eyewear The power of involving kids in entrepreneurial thinking Principles of sustainable business Innovative approaches to recycling Perfect for entrepreneurs, environmentalists, and anyone who believes small actions can create big impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Steve Vamos, former CEO of Xero and technology industry veteran, as he shares profound insights on leadership, change, and the human element of business. Drawing from his experiences at Apple, Microsoft, and 9MSN, Steve unpacks the critical importance of mindset, team alignment, and creating environments where people can truly excel. Discover: How focus and saying "no" can drive organizational success The power of a learning mindset in times of rapid transformation Why understanding people is the key to effective leadership With his upcoming book "Through Shifts and Shocks" set to launch, Steve offers a compelling roadmap for leaders navigating uncertain times. Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned executive, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom that will transform how you think about leadership and change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this thought-provoking episode, Ben Tucker delves into the transformative power of leadership, informed by cutting-edge research from IMD, one of the world's leading business schools. Drawing on IMD's expertise in leadership, innovation, and organisational transformation, Ben highlights strategies for fostering collaboration, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership in dynamic environments. Discover how IMD's groundbreaking studies shape modern leadership practices, enabling leaders to navigate complexity, inspire their teams, and drive impactful change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to building high-performing organizations rooted in evidence-based strategies.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family businesses make up 70% of Australia's economy, but only a small percentage survive past the third generation. In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, we sit down with Kirsten Taylor Martin, accredited family business advisor at Grant Thornton, to uncover what it takes to build lasting success in family-run enterprises. Kirsten shares insights on the critical areas of succession planning, family governance, and the rising generation's role in wealth preservation. Kirsten shares key insights on: Succession Planning: How to smoothly transition ownership and leadership across generations. Family Governance: Strategies for fostering communication and alignment within the family. Sustainability & Legacy: How family values contribute to positive community and environmental impact. Wealth Preservation: Preparing the rising generation with the financial skills and mindset to protect and grow family assets. We also explore the unique strengths and challenges of family businesses, from legacy building and effective communication to the increasing focus on sustainability and diversity. Whether you're in a family business or simply interested in what makes them tick, Kirsten's insights offer practical guidance and fresh perspectives on creating a legacy that thrives across generations. Tune in to discover how family values and smart planning can ensure a lasting impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we're excited to feature Matt Jones, the co-founder of Four Pillars Gin, a brand that has redefined the craft gin industry in Australia and beyond. Join us as we delve into Matt's journey from political advisor to brand strategist, exploring how storytelling and authentic leadership play crucial roles in building a globally recognized brand. Matt shares valuable insights on: The importance of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with customers How genuine leadership fosters a culture of brand ownership among employees The strategies behind Four Pillars' rise in a crowded market Whether you're a leader, a marketer, or simply a gin enthusiast, this episode offers inspiring lessons on connecting with your audience and creating lasting impact. Tune in now to discover how great storytelling can elevate your brand to new heights!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, we welcome David Knoff, Antarctic station leader and author of 537 Days of Winter. David's journey is one of resilience, adaptability, and the sheer mental fortitude required to lead a team through unprecedented isolation and extreme conditions. From managing resources and morale to navigating the mental toll of Antarctica's harsh environment—compounded by an unexpected pandemic lockdown—David shares powerful insights on crisis leadership and what it takes to keep a team motivated in the world's most remote and challenging location. Tune in for a unique conversation that delves into leadership, resilience, and the art of maintaining hope and connection, even when you're far from home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Season 7. We kick off with Dylan Brady, visionary architect and founder of Decibel Architecture. Dylan shares his bold approach to leadership and innovation, guided by the core values of knowledge, radicalism, and play. In this episode, he discusses how pushing the boundaries of architectural design and embracing radical ideas is key to creating future-ready spaces. Learn how his firm specialises in projects that have never been done before, why storytelling is essential in leadership, and how architecture can shape sustainable, community-centered cities. Tune in to discover how leadership, courage, and imagination can transform not only the way we build, but the way we live and lead in an ever-evolving world. Whether you're an architect, leader, or someone interested in future-forward thinking, this episode is packed with inspiration and forward-looking insights!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marianne Broadbent's career journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to take calculated risks. From her early days as a teacher to her current role as a leadership advisor, Broadbent's story is one of reinvention and continuous growth. In our conversations Marianne shares insights on what makes successful executives, the importance of curiosity, building trust, and leading diverse and distributed teams. She also discusses her book "The Agile Executive" and provides advice for leaders navigating the challenges of today's business environment.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Ben Hamer, a renowned futurist who provides insights on the evolving landscape of AI, robotics, the metaverse, and the future of work and politics. In our wide-ranging conversation, Ben shares his perspective on the meteoric rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, the potential of 3D printing and lab-grown meat to transform industries, and the geopolitical shifts impacting the global economy. We also delve into the challenges facing leaders navigating the shift to hybrid work models and the growing influence of consumer and employee activism. Looking ahead to 2025, Ben forecasts the continued integration of AI into business operations, the impact of the global elections, and the increasing prominence of social and environmental issues shaping consumer and employee sentiment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the forces shaping the future and how to future-proof their organisations. Let's dive in and hear from futurist Dr. Ben Hamer. Dr Ben Hamer is bought to us by Saxton Speakers here is the link to his profile https://www.saxton.com.au/speakers/ben-hamerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we sit down with Asher Nolan, the Diversity and Inclusion Lead at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Asher shares her remarkable journey of transforming the MCG into a truly inclusive and accessible venue, catering to the diverse needs of its 100,000+ capacity crowd. From the creation of sensory-friendly spaces and the introduction of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, to the groundbreaking accessibility familiarisation days for major events, Asher and her team's work has set a new standard for stadium accessibility. You will be captivated by Asher's insights into the challenges and triumphs of making the MCG a world-class, unforgettable, and community-reflecting experience for all. Prepare to be inspired as we explore the power of inclusive leadership and the transformative impact it can have on the lives of those who may have previously felt excluded from the joy of live events.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.