The Lazy CEO Podcast with Jane Lu

From hand-folding flyers in an apartment to selling a company for $180M, Frank Greeff has lived the startup journey most founders only dream about. In this episode, Frank shares the story of how he and his brothers built RealBase from scratch - a small signage business that evolved into a tech marketplace connecting real estate agents with all their suppliers. Along the way, they navigated a high-stakes 50/50 merger with their biggest competitor, a potential trademark lawsuit, and ultimately a nine-figure exit to Domain.com.au. Now, Frank is back with a new venture, Kinso, tackling the communication chaos that slows modern businesses.In this episode, you’ll learn: How Frank shifted his mindset to lead a team that could think for itself. The key pivots that turned a small signage business into a scalable tech marketplace. How “firing yourself” from your own bottleneck helped scale faster. Whether you’re scaling your first startup, thinking about a merger, or dreaming of a big exit, Frank’s insights reveal what it really takes to grow, lead, and sell a startup in today’s world. Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO Podcast: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Frank Greeff: @frankgreeff_See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Lazy CEO Podcast, Jane chats to Eugene Healy - brand strategist, educator, and creator whose insights have helped giants like Google, Spotify, and Red Bull cut through the noise.Eugene breaks down 3 tips to make any brand unforgettable. Forget the old influencer playbook - just posting with lifestyle stars won’t cut it anymore. We dive into how founders can team up with creators who actually educate, entertain, and ignite niche communities to make your brand impossible to ignore. You’ll also learn how to set up your brand identity online so your audience instantly knows exactly who you are. And if you want your content to actually build real value, Eugene explains why creating fluent, consistent brand assets from day one is a total game-changer.So get ready to press pause and write this all down - this episode is packed full of insights!Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO Podcast: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Eugene Healy: @eugbrandstratSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you turn a uni side hustle and a love of shoes into one of Australia’s biggest fashion empires?In this episode, Susannah Khouzame shares how she built Billini, the iconic footwear brand that started in her garage, now stocked at over 500 stockists worldwide and of course the one you probably bought from first, Showpo! With no background in footwear, Susannah taught herself everything from scratch, from sourcing in China to managing cash flow and designing runway-worthy styles at affordable prices. She opens up about the early mould disasters, building a loyal team including her sister, scaling to 40 retail stores, juggling three kids, and why empowering her people to make decisions has been key to growing globally. Susannah’s story is proof that you don’t need funding, connections, or a perfect plan. Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO Podcast: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Billini & Susannah: @billinishoes @skhouzameSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this month’s Help My Small Business episode, Jane is joined by Anaita Sarkar, co-founder of Hero Packaging, to help Shakas from Billow Beach take her brand to the next level. Shakas is looking for advice on sourcing the right wholesalers and validating her product appeal. Jane and Anaita share practical strategies to test product-market fit, identify ideal wholesale partners, and improve Billow Beach’s Instagram and website with honest feedback and actionable tips. Want your business featured on the pod? Send us a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. Email your video to hello@thelazyceo.com. Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast: @thelazyceo_podcast @thelazyceopodStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoConnect with Anaita Sarkar: @sellanythingonlineSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you turn a cheeky side hustle into one of Australia’s most recognisable swimwear brands? In this episode, Adam Linforth shares exactly how he did it. From starting in a “safe” career in banking to buying Budgy Smuggler on a whim, Adam turned a hyper-seasonal, zero-order product into a global brand worn by tradies, footy players, and surf lifesavers alike. He dives into why he’d rather fail at something he loves than chase someone else’s idea of success, how keeping it simple and fun built a cult following, the lessons learned from copycats and legal drama, and why nailing your backyard before taking on the world is the best business advice he’s ever received. Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast: @thelazyceo_podcast Stay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Connect with Adam Linforth: LinkedIn Follow Budgy Smuggler: @budgysmugglerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life isn’t about ticking boxes - it’s about defining what truly matters. In this episode, Jane sits down with her close friend Jude Batrac to explore 5 lessons for living intentionally. They discuss how to stop living someone else’s vision of success, prioritise what’s important, express feelings, nurture meaningful friendships, and allow yourself to be happy. Jane and Jude share honest, actionable insights to help you live a life full of purpose. Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoStay updated with Jude Batrac: @jude_batrac_mcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you move past busywork, tackle your biggest business constraints, and actually scale your company? In this episode, Jack Delosa shares exactly how he did it. From starting in business at 17 to building The Entourage into Australia’s largest business coaching agency, Jack has helped clients generate over $1B in annual sales and supports a global network of nearly one million entrepreneurs. He dives into why investing in yourself is the most important step in scaling, the power of asking “dumb questions,” how deep work and focus transform productivity, and why community and mindset are just as important as strategy when it comes to real growth. Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoConnect with Jack Delosa: @jackdelosaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this month’s Help My Small Business episode, Jane is joined by Anaita Sarkar, co-founder of Hero Packaging, to help Bec from Glow by Becca get her business back on track after financial setbacks and product losses. As a mum juggling entrepreneurship, Bec faces the challenge of balancing family life while trying to grow her self-tanning brand. Jane and Anaita explore practical ways to stabilise cash flow, make strategic financial decisions, and set up systems that allow for growth without burnout. They also discuss the importance of defining a unique selling proposition, leveraging founder-led storytelling, optimising websites and product pages, and using content-driven marketing strategies to attract the right customers. Want your business featured on the pod? Send us a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. Email your video to hello@thelazyceo.com. Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast: @thelazyceo_podcast @thelazyceopod Stay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Connect with Anaita Sarkar: @sellanythingonlineSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you actually get a buyer's attention and convince them to put your brand on shelves nationwide?In this episode, Jordan Mylius shares exactly how he did it. From buying a tanning salon at just 21, to helping Bondi Sands expand into thousands of doors, to launching Hairification, a haircare brand that landed in Coles, Woolworths, and Priceline in under two years and is on track to turn over $20M, Jordan knows what it takes to win in retail.He dives into the sales tactics buyers cannot ignore, how to pitch a brand with zero product and still secure a national rollout, and why the hardest part is not getting stocked, it is selling through. Jordan also shares the story behind a viral TikTok campaign that took Hairification from a concept to a shelf favourite and why listening more than speaking can make all the difference in closing a deal.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoStay updated with Jordan: @mistermyliusFollow Hairification! @hairification_haircare Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leadership isn't about doing it all yourself - it's about building high-performing teams, protecting your vision, and knowing when to evolve. In this episode, Jane sits down with her close friend Jude, a keynote speaker and masterful moderator who knows how to shake up workplace culture and spark action through storytelling. Who better to put Jane in the hot seat than one of her closest mates?They dive into the realities of building a business: hiring generalists before specialists, creating a culture of trust, fun, and psychological safety, and knowing when to outgrow people without guilt. Jane shares lessons from failure, feedback, and high-pressure growth moments, showing how optimism, authenticity, and clear vision are what really drive teams forward.This is leadership unfiltered - the stumbles, the tough calls, and the resilience it takes to keep moving. Whether you're building your first team or navigating the next stage of growth, Jane and Jude offer honest, actionable insights that will leave you thinking differently about what it takes to lead.Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcast Stay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Stay updated with Jude: @jude_batrac_mc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Would you believe you can scale a business without social content, influencers, or followers? Jeremy Levitt founder of Brunt Work, Baden Bower, and ServiceSeeking has done exactly that.From being fired from a top lawfirm to building multiple businesses, Jeremy has scaled companies without social media- leaning on Google Ads, SEO, PR, and AI to grow smarter and faster.We dive into the realities of scaling - how businesses can be tactical, leverage AI, and manipulate search engines to their advantage. Jeremy explains how to use the technology already at your fingertips to grow fast and efficiently.He reveals how to stay focused on what matters, understand unit economics, and spot market opportunities. Jeremy also dives into risk, purpose, and feedback, explaining how running multiple ventures reduces single points of failure - and why the harshest, most valuable feedback is the kind that stings.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Jeremy Levitt on LinkedIn: jeremy-levitt-entrepreneur Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Struggling with pricing and value perception? You're not alone.This episode of The Lazy CEO dives into the sales and marketing challenges faced by early-stage founders – through the lens of Lauren's business, Colour Capsule, a colour analysis service helping women feel confident in what they wear.Jane and Jack Delosa (founder of The Entourage, AFR Young Rich Lister, and one of Australia's top business coaches) unpack the key levers to charge with confidence and attract the right customers. They explore why price objections often mean you're targeting the wrong audience, how to position your service to high-value clients, and why before-and-afters, case studies, and success stories are essential for showing your worth. They also discuss building urgency through an appointment-style sales process and creating premium offerings for clients who want more than a one-off service.Want your business featured on the pod?Send us a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. Email your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoConnect with Jack Delosa: @jackdelosa Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stanley Henry didn't build The Attention Seeker with big budgets - he built it from coffee catch-ups, LinkedIn posts, and relentless consistency.Today, his agency has over a million followers, including 800k on TikTok, creating content people actually want to watch.You've probably seen him as the grumpy boss on TikTok, constantly provoked by his Gen Z sidekick Jony. Behind the skits is a strategist who knows how to capture attention.In this episode, Stanley shares how he turned daily LinkedIn posts into a seven-figure agency, breaks down the five stages of attention every brand needs to learn, and why everyday life often makes the most compelling content.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay up to with Jane: @thelazyceoConnect with Stanley: @stanleychenryFollow The Attention Seeker: TikTok | Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane teams up with STAX founders Don Robertson and Matilda Murray to break down the 8 fundamentals of building a brand that lasts.Drawing on a decade of growing STAX from $80,000 in debt to an 8-figure activewear empire, Don and Matilda share the wins, mistakes, and turning points that shaped their business. From making inclusive sizing a non-negotiable from day one, to turning hype drops into a loyalty machine, to understanding the true difference between selling products and building a brand - this is real, actionable advice from founders who have lived it.Whether you're launching your first idea or scaling past seven figures, these fundamentals will change how you approach building something that stands the test of time.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay up to with Jane: @thelazyceoConnect with Don & Matilda: @donnrobertson & @matilda_murrary_Check out STAX: @staxoffical_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you disrupt a heritage industry with no retail experience, no paid ads, and zero brand awareness? Just ask Annabelle and Thomas Burns.These siblings are the founders of Femmé Organic, a brand that went from selling just seven products on launch day (mostly to family) to being stocked in every Priceline across Australia. With no retail background and no marketing budget, they relied on LinkedIn, sibling chaos, and a viral TikTok to break into a billion-dollar personal care market dominated by giants.In this episode, they share the story of how a pre-meeting shot helped land their first retail deal, what happened when Woolworths dropped them, and how they recovered from printing 20,000 units with the wrong label. From walking the CBD in a tampon suit for content to building a brand entirely without paid ads or agencies, their journey is as chaotic as it is inspiring.If you're ready to hear how unpolished hustle and sibling teamwork can rewrite the rules, this episode is for you.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay up to with Jane: @thelazyceoConnect with Anabelle & Thomas: @anabelleburns & @thomasburns__Check out Femmé Organic: @femmeorganic_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Struggling with your first hire? You're not alone. This episode of The Lazy CEO dives into the hiring challenges faced by early-stage founders - through the lens of Sarah's business, Pinc Wellness. Jane is joined by entrepreneur Jeremy Levitt, founder of Brunt Work, Baden Bower, and ServiceSeeking. With a proven track record of building global businesses, Jeremy shares advice on how to hire smart, scale fast, and avoid the common traps founders fall into. They explore who your first hire should be and why getting it wrong can stall your growth, plus the difference between freelancers, outsourcing, and both offshore and onshore hires. Jeremy breaks down how to build a lean team that actually moves the needle, and where to find great talent - without blowing the budget.Want your business featured on the pod?Send us a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. You might just be our next spotlight. Email your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Jeremy Levitt on LinkedIn: jeremy-levitt-entrepreneur Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Lazy CEO, Jane chats with Melanie Gleeson, founder of Endota Spa, Australia's largest spa service provider. With over 110 locations, a skincare line, a training school, and more than 850,000 treatments performed each year, Endota Spa is a masterclass in building a franchise empire.But it didn't come without challenges. Melanie shares how her very first spa almost didn't open after the council mistook it for a brothel. From there, she takes us through how she turned an unproven idea into a nationally recognised brand. They dive into what it really takes to scale through franchising, the importance of brand consistency, and why slowing down might actually be the most productive thing you can do - especially when leading a wellness business.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow @endotaspa Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we're diving into Labubu - the chaotic little toy that's outselling PlayStations, hanging off celebrity bags, and fuelling billion-dollar hype.We unpack how a forest creature toy became a global status symbol - thanks to blind boxes, limited drops, and a business model built on FOMO.Is this one of the smartest marketing strategies we've seen… or should brands be held accountable for selling dopamine disguised as collectables?Plus, we break down the week that was, including Jane's new Microsoft campaign and how it nailed authentic, reactive marketing. Watch it hereConnect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you do after seven years in high finance? If you're Julian Parisi, you trade the suits for fresh produce and step into a 70-year-old family business - only to rebuild it from the ground up.In this episode of The Lazy CEO, Julian shares how one elevator pitch landed him a job at Goldman Sachs as a uni student… and how another brought him back to Parisi Australia - his family's multi-million dollar produce business now supplying clients like Merivale.We unpack the unique challenges of stepping into a legacy operation (and earning respect fast), the shift from retail to wholesale and catering, and why Julian sees the future of fruit and veg as a branding opportunity - not just a supply chain. From baby cherry truss tomatoes to export dreams and shutting down the eastern suburbs (literally), Julian proves there's nothing “small” about the fruit and veg game.Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcast Stay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoCheck out Parisi Australia: Website: parisisydney.com Instagram: @parisiaustralia Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Help My Small Business, Jane is joined by marketing guru and podcast queen Kelly McCarren to review Lucy's business, Antico - a vintage-inspired homewares brand.With just $500 and one hero product (the Fiore Vase), Lucy has already hit $54k in revenue. But now she's stuck: Where should she invest her time and money next? Should she expand her range? Run ads? Fix her conversion issues in the US?Jane and Kelly break it all down - from why having just one product might be holding her back, to how pricing and bundling could shift the game. They dive into website tweaks, TikTok strategy, and why Lucy's founder story is her biggest asset.If you've got a small business and you're overwhelmed by all the things - this episode is a roadmap for making smarter, more strategic decisions with your limited resources.Want your business featured on the pod?Send us a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. You might just be our next spotlight. Email your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Kelly McCarren: @kelly_mccarrenCheck out Antico: @antico.home Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you do when your own employee starts stealing your clients… and your entire business model? If you're Katelin Gregg and Ella James, you put on matching suits and handle it.But that's just one chapter in the wild story behind Fayshell, Australia's first membership-based skincare clinic. Launched in 2022, Fayshell was built on a simple but disruptive idea: make good skin accessible through consistency, not one-off facials. With a personalised, subscription-based model and twice-weekly LED treatments, Katelin and Ella set out to shake up the beauty industry and they did exactly that.In this episode, the best-friend co-founders share how they turned a podcast about skincare into a full-blown business, how they pitched to investors with zero clinical experience, and what it really took to scale from living above their first clinic to managing a team of 16. They open up about early hurdles, big wins, and the marketing stunts they'd rather forget.It's a chaotic, unfiltered look at building a brand in an industry that's still catching up, and proof that you don't need permission to do things differently.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Katelin & Ella: @katelingregg @ella.james2Check out Fayshell: @fayshell.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Doing it all on your own? It's overrated.This week, Jane sits down with Kelly McCarren - marketing consultant, beauty expert, and co-host of You Beauty - to talk about why going solo isn't the flex we think it is.From business to friendships to life in general, they unpack how building a strong support circle can change everything and why it's one of the smartest (and most underrated) moves you can make.Plus, they get into what's been trending in the beauty world, including their take on the Rhode x e.l.f. deal and what it means for the future of celeb beauty brands.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFind Kelly here: @kelly_mccarren Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode dives deep into a story that starts long before today's guest was even born - one of resilience, reinvention, and the legacy of pubs, people, and a little chaos.Jane sits down with Elliot Solomon, CEO of Solotel Group, a fourth-generation hospitality leader whose family fled Russia during the pogroms and ended up building one of Australia's most iconic venue groups - behind The Sheaf, The Clock, Opera Bar, Chiswick, Aria, and more.Elliot shares how the business has evolved across generations - how his dad ditched law to work in pubs, how changing the menu overnight didn't go as planned, and how Elliot stepped up as CEO at 30. Now juggling 1700 employees and three kids under three, Elliot opens up about what it really takes to lead a legacy - through expansion, reinvention, and staying emotionally objective in a deeply personal business.This one's got family drama, business grit, and a whole lot of pub wisdom.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Elliot on Instagram: @elliotsolomonFollow Solotel on Instagram: @solotel_group Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not all advice is good advice. Especially when it's trying to make you blend in.In this solo episode, Jane gets real about the well-meaning (but completely off-brand) advice she's glad she ignored when building Showpo. From industry “rules” to branding tips that would've diluted everything she was trying to do, Jane shares the decisions that helped her stand out and why playing it safe was never the plan.Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcast Stay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's extended Help My Small Business episode is packed with real talk and practical advice for product-based founders. Jane is joined by interior designer and business mentor Emma Blomfield to review Bek's business, Luckies - the knickers that ditch the shame around discharge.Together, they unpack some of the most common (and costly) mistakes early-stage brands make - from building a website that doesn't convert to relying on a product range that's too niche to grow. Emma and Jane get honest about what makes a business actually investable, sharing tips on how to pitch for funding, what investors want to see, and why investing in your own business can sometimes be a smarter move than giving away equity too early.They also reflect on their own experiences starting out, including the tough lessons, mindset shifts, and business pivots that made the biggest difference. If you're a founder who's hit a plateau, this episode will give you the insight (and reality check) you didn't know you needed.Want your business featured on the pod?Send us a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. You might just be our next spotlight. Email your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Emma Blomfield: @emmablomfield Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Help My Small Business episode, Jane is joined by Tori Clapham and Chris Hole - founders of Peaches Pilates - to help out Nikolina, the founder of I See by Nikolina, an Australian-made fashion brand that blends style with spiritual connection.The big question on Nikolina's mind? When is the right time to start running ads and investing in SEO?Tori and Chris break down how to know if your brand is ready to scale with paid ads, and what groundwork needs to be done first - think product, website, and conversion rates. From understanding your margins to refining your brand experience, this is a must-listen for anyone itching to hit "launch" on their digital marketing.Want your business featured on the pod?Send us a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. You might just be our next spotlight. Email your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcast Stay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Follow Tori on Instagram: @toriclapham Follow Chris on Instagram: @chrishole Follow Peaches Pilates: @peachespilates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Lazy CEO, we're joined by Tori Clapham and Chris Hole, the husband-and-wife team behind Peaches Pilates, the mat-based Pilates brand shaking up the fitness world.In this episode, Tori and Chris dive deep into how building from their client community helps create loyal staff and reduce turnover. Tori opens up about the mindset shift she experienced as a mentor, learning to accept that staff will eventually outgrow the business, and why that's a sign of good leadership. She also shares how becoming a mother shifted her priorities, giving her new perspective and setting clearer boundaries between herself and the business. As owners and franchisors, they talk honestly about being involved in everything and the challenge of learning to delegate more effectively. Together, they discuss the challenges and rewards of scaling a business as a married couple with two young kids, offering leadership lessons for thriving through fast growth rather than just surviving it.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Tori on Instagram: @toriclaphamFollow Chris on Instagram: @chrisholeFollow Peaches Pilates on Instagram: @peachespilates Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeling like you're doing everything and still getting nowhere? In this solo episode of The Lazy CEO, Jane shares 9 time-saving habits that actually help when you're overworked, overwhelmed, and barely keeping up. These habits are all about working smarter, not harder - because no one has time for burnout.Jane breaks down how she structures her day to avoid falling into reactive mode, the mindset shift that helped her stop glorifying being busy, and how she approaches her to-do list to get real results without the fluff. You'll hear how multitasking might be killing your focus and what to do instead, and the underrated trick that helps protect your time when everything feels urgent.Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever feel like your product is great, but no one's seeing it? You're not alone.In this Help My Small Business episode, Jane is joined by James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel, to help Tormina - founder of Lucie & Co, a sustainable pet accessories brand - figure out how to actually stand out online.From learning how to make Meta ads work without blowing your budget, to understanding how to increase your profit margin so you can afford to reinvest in growth, this episode is packed with real advice for small businesses trying to break through the noise.If you'd love your business featured on the podcast, send in a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. You might just be our next spotlight. Send your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcast Stay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Follow James on LinkedIn: James Thornton Follow Intrepid Travel on Instagram: @intrepidtravel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people think being CEO means having all the answers. James Thornton would say it means knowing when to shut up and listen.James is the CEO of Intrepid Travel – the world's largest adventure travel company and a certified B Corp that's been walking the talk for decades – but he didn't start at the top. Nearly 20 years ago, he applied for a job at Intrepid, got rejected, and eventually got his foot in the door as a sales rep. Since then, he's worked his way up to the CEO role, crediting his rise to listening, learning, and communicating even when it's uncomfortable. Now, under his leadership, Intrepid is on track to hit $800 million in revenue, but James believes the real key to leading a business across seven continents isn't just strategy – it's communication.In this episode, we dive into what it's like leading a company you didn't found, why purpose and profit aren't mutually exclusive, and the leadership style James calls “casual intensity.”Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcast Stay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Follow James on LinkedIn: James Thornton Follow Intrepid Travel on Instagram: @intrepidtravel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Help My Small Business, Jane is joined by Sophie Hood, founder of Seoul Tonic, to review Glydelle—an anti-chafing brand created by Kristy.Right now, Kristy's content is resonating more with other small business owners than with the customers she's actually trying to reach. Jane and Sophie dive into how she can shift gears and build a community that buys, not just supports.They unpack the importance of brand equity—and how it starts with packaging that makes people feel something. From there, it's all about getting the product into people's hands—using strategies like mass gifting, user-generated content, and real, organic reviews to build buzz. Sophie and Jane also talk about the importance of making your content work hard—leaning into humour, strong visual hooks, and relatable use-cases to stop the scroll and actually drive action.They explore why having a clear expansion roadmap is crucial, even in the early stages—and how to learn from what your competitors are doing right (and wrong). Because it's not just about the next product, it's about building a brand that can grow with purpose.If you've got a good product but it's not gaining traction yet, this episode is packed with practical, founder-tested strategies to try today.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Sophie Hood: @sophiehood1Follow Seoul Tonic: @seoul.tonic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sometimes being naive is the superpower. Just ask Sophie Hood.This week on The Lazy CEO, Sophie—founder of Seoul Tonic—shares how she turned a side hustle into one of Australia's most innovative beverage brands, now stocked in Woolies, BWS, Dan Murphy's, and over 2,000 independents—all without a single full-time employee.With a background in finance and strategy at EY, LVMH, and Red Bull, Sophie had the big-brand experience—but it was her gut instinct, bold thinking, and scrappy execution that set Seoul Tonic apart. She and Jane talk about trusting your gut, getting to market quickly, and why waiting for perfection is often just fear in disguise.Sophie and Jane also dive into the advantages of launching in Australia—why it's a slower, more forgiving market that gives founders the space to test, learn, and pivot on the go. Sophie shares how working full-time allowed her to reinvest every dollar back into the business, how she took calls from the Red Bull office to build credibility, and why prime checkout placement can be more valuable than shelf space.From bootstrapping to winning Food Stars with Gordon Ramsay and Janine Allis, to expanding, this is a crash course in starting scrappy and scaling smart.Note: This episode was recorded at the start of April. Any discussion around tariffs is now outdated and should not be taken as current or applicable business advice.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Sophie Hood: @sophiehood1Follow Seoul Tonic: @seoul.tonic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wonder how to build a strong, engaged community—without showing your face or having a big following? You're not alone.In this Help My Small Business episode, Jane is joined by Chebbo, founder of Chebbo's Burgers, to offer advice to Bec, the founder of The Food Design Studio, a creative studio that helps food brands stand out.Bec's challenge? She wants to grow her audience and build a genuine community, but she's not comfortable being the face of her brand. Jane and Chebbo talk through the reality of going faceless—why it's possible, but why it also means you have to try 10x harder to stand out. They share tips on how to use voiceovers, storytelling, and tone of voice as powerful tools to create connection without being on camera.If you'd love your business featured on the podcast, send in a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. You might just be our next spotlight. Send your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoConnect with Chebbo: @itschebboCheck out Chebbo's BurgersFollow Bec's work: @fooddesignstudio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Chebbo, the founder of Chebbo's Burgers, shares how a viral TikTok series took him from a backyard BBQ setup to a booming burger business with a cult following.Chebbo dives into the power of content—how being consistent, building a community, and leaning into storytelling helped him create a brand that people don't just love, but line up for. He opens up about his early missteps, including an underestimation of his own popularity that led to a chaotic (but unforgettable) first food truck pop-up.From those lessons came key insights on what really matters when growing a service-based business—like personally knowing your customer and creating an experience that keeps them coming back.This episode is packed with real talk, behind-the-scenes moments, and practical takeaways for anyone wanting to turn their content into a community and their side hustle into a full-blown business.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoConnect with Chebbo: @itschebboFollow Chebbo's Burgers: @chebbosburgers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever feel like you're just winging it, even when your business is thriving? You're not alone.In this Help My Small Business episode, Jane and Anaita Sarkar dive into the all-too-common feeling of imposter syndrome among founders. The conversation kicks off with the story of Cindy Lim, founder of Koko & Kush, who made the bold decision to sell her house and move in with her parents to fund her hemp-based skincare brand during the pandemic. Her journey of taking massive risks while battling self-doubt resonates deeply with many entrepreneurs.Jane and Anaita discuss how imposter syndrome manifests at different stages of business, the pressures of leadership, and strategies to overcome those nagging feelings of inadequacy. If you'd love your business featured on the podcast, send in a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. You might just be our next spotlight. Send your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastFollow Anaita Sarkar: @sellanythingonlineStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anaita Sarkar—founder of Hero Packaging and the voice behind Sell Anything Online—joins Jane to talk about what's working in marketing right now, how she's handling unexpected US tariffs, and the real, not-so-glam side of running a business.They get personal about the stuff people don't usually say out loud—like the loneliness that can come with being a founder and the pressure to always look like you've got it together.This one's real, raw, and packed with insights for anyone building something of their own.Connect With Us:Follow The Lazy CEO on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastFollow Anaita Sarkar: @sellanythingonlineStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Lazy CEO, Jane is joined by Adam Schwab, founder of Luxury Escapes, one of the world's most trusted travel brands. They chat about how service businesses can position themselves as the go-to experts in their space, justify premium pricing during tough economic times, and build loyalty that keeps customers coming back.They also dive into Julia's business, Highlight Brows and Beauty—a cosmetic tattooing studio based in Perth. With cheaper technicians entering the market, Julia wants to know how to maintain her premium positioning. Adam and Jane share practical advice on refining her marketing and creating stronger customer loyalty.If you'd love your business featured on the podcast, send in a 30 to 90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help. You might just be our next spotlight. Send your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Loving these episodes? Let us know by leaving a comment or review.Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcast Stay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Connect with Adam Schwab: @adamjschwab Follow Luxury Escapes: @luxury.escapes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Adam Schwab, co-founder of Luxury Escapes, shares powerful insights on building a successful business. He explains how combining brand and scale is a company's superpower, and why having a “cornered resource” — like exclusive hotel deals — gives you a major competitive advantage.Adam also dives into the importance of building switching costs into your brand to keep customers loyal, especially when facing major competitors. He talks about the challenge of winning customers over and the strategy needed to retain them in a crowded market.Finally, Adam shares how stepping away from the business as a founder can give you the perspective needed to come back with fresh eyes and take your company to the next level.This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to scale their business and build a brand that stands out.Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoConnect with Adam Schwab: @adamjschwabFollow Luxury Escapes: @luxury.escapes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Lazy CEO, we're joined by Corbin Halliday, the genius behind Three Warriors, to explore how to convert web traffic into sales.In our Help My Small Business segment, we take a deep dive into Glam Theory, a sought-after makeup brush company. We discuss actionable ways to track web traffic, website usability, and how your product price point might be deterring that final sale or affecting basket size.We'd love to feature your business on the podcast! Send us a 30-90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help—you might just be spotlighted in an upcoming episode! Send your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.We want to hear from you! Let us know if you're loving these episodes by leaving a comment or review.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Corbin Halliday: @corbinhallidayFollow Three Warriors: @threewarriors Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to The Lazy CEO! Today, we're diving into the incredible story of Corbin Halliday, the accidental entrepreneur behind Three Warriors—the world's leading certified organic, non-toxic sunless tanning brand.Corbin never set out to build a business. Struggling with chronic health issues, he created a clean self-tanner for himself, not realising it would spark a movement. While still bedridden, word-of-mouth spread, and Three Warriors started gaining traction. For the first three years, Corbin was selling the product from his sick bed, then walking into stores himself—sharing his story, convincing retailers, and proving there was a demand for high-quality, non-toxic tanning.That relentless approach paid off. Without big budgets or flashy marketing, Three Warriors landed in 200–300 retailers purely through Corbin's hustle and word-of-mouth buzz. But the real game-changer? Understanding his audience. Corbin initially thought his brand would resonate with teens and twenty-somethings, but he soon realised his biggest customers were actually 40+. That insight transformed the way he marketed and scaled the business.Now, Three Warriors is a multi-million-dollar brand, with a best-selling product selling every 60 seconds, stocked by major retailers, and setting a new standard for clean beauty.This is a story of resilience, purpose, and the power of knowing your audience. Tune in to hear how Corbin turned a personal struggle into a global brand.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoFollow Corbin Halliday: @corbinhallidayFollow Three Warriors: @threewarriors Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Lazy CEO, we're joined by hospitality powerhouse Ibby Moubadder to answer a burning Help My Small Business question—how can a growing business streamline its booking system and engage prospective customers?We take a deep dive into Sophie's Slime Factory, a business expanding fast and looking for ways to refine its processes. Ibby shares expert insights on optimising bookings, using data to boost customer retention, and keeping customers coming back.We'd love to feature your business on the podcast! Send us a 30-90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help—we might just spotlight you in an upcoming episode! Send your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Loving these episodes? Let us know by leaving a comment or review!Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoStay updated with Ibby: @ibby.moubadderFollow The ESCA Group: @itsescagroup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey Poddy Fam! Welcome back to The Lazy CEO!In today's episode, we're sitting down with the incredible Ibby Moubadder, the Co-Founder and Creative Director of ESCA Group! From initially moving to Australia to study nursing to now leading one of the country's most innovative restaurant groups, Ibby's story is one of bold decisions, resilience, and trusting his intuition.Ibby is the genius behind some of Sydney's most loved venues, including AALIA, Nour, Henrietta, Ito, Lilymu, and Joji. Since launching ESCA Group, he's expanded to seven thriving restaurants, with four more on the way, won numerous industry awards, and built a team of 270 passionate people.In this episode, Ibby dives deep into the importance of trusting your gut, the power of good food, and the role of PR in building a brand—especially in creating media stories that put your name on the map.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoStay updated with Ibby: @ibby.moubadderFollow The ESCA Group: @itsescagroup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We made it—100 episodes of The Lazy CEO! And to celebrate, we're shaking things up. My good friend Jude Batrac is flipping the script and putting me in the hot seat.In Part 1, we dived into shaking up the industry, the importance of cash flow (because let's be real, it can make or break a business), and took a trip down memory lane where I shared my biggest fuck-ups and best successes.Now, in Part 2, we're keeping the conversation going. We get into the importance of organisation and time blocking—because running a business (and life) without structure is chaos. Plus, I respond to listener questions about dealing with trolling.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoStay updated with Jude: @jude_batrac_mc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We made it—100 episodes of The Lazy CEO! And to celebrate, we're shaking things up. My good friend Jude Batrac is flipping the script and putting me in the hot seat.Last week, I asked you all to send in your burning business questions, and wow, you delivered. In this episode, we dive into shaking up the industry, the importance of cash flow (because let's be real, it can make or break a business), and take a trip down memory lane where I share my biggest fuck-ups and my best successes.So buckle up for Thursday's episode where Part 2 drops, and we keep the conversation going!Connect with us: Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcast Stay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Stay updated with Jude: @jude_batrac_mc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Lazy CEO, we're joined by Kyle Hunt from HCPA to explore how to get a seat at the table when launching a new brand.We also dive into Help My Small Business, where we review Awaange Label, a DIY eyelash extension product, offering advice on how to stand out in a saturated market and build an emotional connection with future customers.We'd love to feature your business on the podcast! Send us a 30-90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help—we might just spotlight you in an upcoming episode! Send your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastFollow Kyle Hunt: @kylehunt_Stay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoLet us know your biggest takeaways, and don't forget to leave a review if you love the episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey Poddy Fam!!This week on The Lazy CEO, we're joined by Kyle Hunt, the founder of HCPA, a leader in the healthcare and funding space.Kyle's journey is nothing short of inspiring.Growing up in foster care, he faced numerous challenges, but his determination to make a difference led him to build a company that has secured over $2 billion in funding for healthcare businesses and vulnerable individuals.In this episode, Kyle explores his biggest challenge—staff retention. As a service-based business, employees would often leave once they gained valuable, highly poachable skills. Kyle shares how he reinvented his company culture to overcome this challenge, retain top talent, and foster an environment that drives excellence and growth.He also dives into how he cracked the TikTok algorithm and offers valuable insights on how to structure your videos to create an emotional connection with your audience.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcast Follow Kyle Hunt: @kylehunt_ Stay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceoLet us know your biggest takeaways, and don't forget to leave a review if you love the episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Lazy CEO, we're joined by Dani Atkins & Alex Babich, the couple behind Kulani Kinis, to explore how to drive organic traffic to your website as a newly established brand.We also dive into Help My Small Business, where we review Cuddl. Bub, a stylish toddler carrier for the Velcro baby, offering advice on how to build momentum and grow visibility. We'd love to feature your business on the podcast! Send us a 30-90 second video telling us about your brand and how we can help—we might just spotlight you in an upcoming episode! Send your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.We want to hear from you! Let us know if you're loving these episodes by leaving a comment or review.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastFollow Kulani Kinis: @kulanikinisFollow Alex Babich: @bikinibaronFollow Dani Atkins: @daniatkinsStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey Poddy Fam!!This week on The Lazy CEO, we're joined by Dani Atkins & Alex Babich, the couple behind Kulani Kinis, one of Australia's most in-demand swimwear brands.Back in 2015, Dani (an emergency psychologist) and Alex (a corporate accountant at EY) had zero experience in fashion, manufacturing, or e-commerce. But when a Hawaiian holiday exposed a gap in the market, they didn't overthink it—they just went for it. With their vacation savings, they launched Kulani Kinis, creating swimwear that fit better, felt amazing, and stood out with bold, vibrant designs.Rather than following the traditional path, they focused on organic growth, built a loyal community, and scaled the brand to $3–$4 million in revenue before even running social media ads. Their unconventional strategies helped them scale to be a $100M business, proving that thinking outside the box can be a major advantage. In this episode, they share why being naïve in business can be a superpower, the biggest risks they took, and what they would do differently.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastFollow Kulani Kinis: @kulanikinisFollow Alex Babich: @bikinibaronFollow Dani Atkins: @daniatkinsStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Lazy CEO, we're joined by Sally Obermeder from Swiish to explore how to build an organic community and create a brand that truly connects with its audience.We also dive into S'haven, a brand redefining shaving with its Whipped Shaving Foam and razor, who is seeking advice on when the right time is to start running paid ads and how to build a strong community.If you missed Tuesday's episode, we dived into Sally's journey with Swiish, her personal story of resilience, and the highs and lows of building a business while navigating life's challenges. We also answered all your burning questions sent in by listeners—so be sure to check it out!We'd love to feature your business on the podcast! Send us a 30-90 second video as a link, telling us about your brand and how we can help—we might just spotlight you in an upcoming episode! Send your video to hello@thelazyceo.com.We want to hear from you! Let us know if you're loving these episodes by leaving a comment or review.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with Swiish: @swiishStay updated with Sally Obermeder: @sallyobermederStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we catch up with Sally Obermeder to explore where SWIISH is now, after an incredible year of growth and expansion. But that's not all—we're also answering the hot, burning questions you, our listeners, sent in!We dive into Sally's journey with SWIISH, her personal story of resilience, and the highs and lows of building a business while navigating life's challenges.So grab a glass of wine—just like we have—and join us for an unfiltered, insightful conversation full of real talk.Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastStay updated with SWIISH: @swiishStay updated with Sally Obermeder: @sallyobermederStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Help My Small Business, we're joined by Amy and Jono Castano to give expert advice to Nikki from Mentwell—a platform offering digital gift cards for health and wellness services!We dive into Nikki's business, exploring how she can scale Mentwell, attract more users, and position her platform as a must-have in the wellness space!Whether you're a small business owner or dreaming of starting your own, there are plenty of takeaways in this episode!If you missed Tuesday's episode, Amy and Jono Castano shared their incredible founder story—building ACERO from the ground up—and opened up about the reality of going from ex-husband and wife to business partners! It's a must-listen, so be sure to check it out!We'd love to feature your business on the podcast! Send us a 30-90 second video as a link to hello@thelazyceo.com, telling us about your business and how we can help! We might just spotlight you in an upcoming episode!We want to hear from you! Let us know if you're loving these new bite-sized episodes by leaving a comment or review!Connect with us:Follow The Lazy CEO podcast on Instagram: @thelazyceo_podcastFollow Amy and Jono Castano: @amycastano @jonocastanoacero @aceroStay updated with our host, Jane Lu: @thelazyceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.