Episoder

  • In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, we sit down with Lydia Gentle, a seasoned engineering professional who shares her journey of over 20 years in the industry. Discover the importance of aligning your career with personal values, the power of continuous learning, and how to navigate work-life balance.

    Lydia emphasises the significance of kindness and community involvement, both in the workplace and at home. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a change, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone eager to grow and thrive in their professional and personal life.

    Lydia is a Chartered Professional Engineer with over 20 years of experience in engineering consultancy, construction, and mining globally. Currently, she is the Portfolio Delivery Manager for BHP’s Australian Coal Operations.

    Previously, she served as Maintenance Manager at a major coal mine and Engineering Manager for various projects. An Order of Australia Medal recipient, Lydia is also the youngest Australian to achieve Engineering Executive status with Engineers Australia.

    She holds a Master of Engineering and is completing a Senior Executive MBA. Lydia is passionate about fostering diversity and building team culture in the resources sector through educational initiatives.

    In this episode we explore:

    The value of early career sacrifice for long term successHow to be intentional in your career and prioritise knowledge and growth.Defining your values and the importance of aligning your career path with themExploring diverse opportunities and pathways on offer with EngineeringThe importance of great work coupled with great relationships

    Join us on the Building Doors Podcast as we dive into navigating your career with intention and the value of lifelong learning. Lydia shares insights on balancing work and personal values, the importance of kindness in shaping success, and how to find your unique path in engineering. Whether you’re starting out or looking to shift gears, this conversation offers valuable perspectives.

    Connect with Lydia Gentle:

    LinkedIn: You can connect with Lydia here

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

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    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • Evan Black is a business coach who brings over 30 years of senior management experience, spanning roles from Sales and Marketing to CEO and Managing Director in both privately owned and billion-dollar listed companies.

    He started a career in health working as a registered nurse and then later moved into race car driving.

    This holistic experience led to a career leading companies through significant challenging times and getting hands on in leading through challenging market conditions.

    It is through personal experience changing career paths that Evan remains a strong advocate for transferrable skills, career transitions and implementing practical business tips.

    Evan's expertise lies in fostering high-performance cultures, developing top talent, and implementing effective strategies to help businesses reach their goals.

    In this episode we focus on some of the aspects of managing a business through hard times such as:

    When toxic employees kills business profits and how to stop itAccountability and transparency as essential skills to build a high performance team Embracing vulnerability to build strength in hard times of leadershipTuning back into our intuition to guide decisions Separating our personal identity from business identity to drive the right balance Scheduled reflection as crucial for any leadership growth Tackling challenge of building psychological safety in the workplace and how we can foster it

    Join us as Evan shares his unique experiences and practical strategies for navigating the complexities of leadership.

    Tune in for valuable takeaways that can transform your approach and to embrace our human instincts for improved business performance.

    Connect with Evan Black:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-black

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life.

    Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • Manglende episoder?

    Klik her for at forny feed.

  • In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, Lauren welcomes Angus Ferguson, who shares his intriguing journey from a humble upbringing in Echuca and soccer scholarship in Caulfield Grammar, to creating and selling a tech start-up for $25 million.

    Angus talks about the values instilled in him by his family, the pivotal experiences in playing soccer in the U.S., and transitioning into real estate.

    He discusses the challenges and lessons learned from founding and scaling a technology startup, including the importance of culture, hiring for fit, and fostering company values.

    Angus delves into his personal life, the balance between work and family, and the impact of becoming a parent on his leadership style. This episode provides a fascinating mix of personal anecdotes, business insights, and reflections on growth and leadership.

    Angus is a successful entrepreneur who sold his business to Domain for $25 million five years ago. He is the Head of Customer Solutions at Domain and is recognised by the Australian Financial Review as a BOSS Young Executive of 2023 as an influential young leader in Australia.

    In this episode we explore:

    How humble beginnings build resilienceWhy sporting success led to business excellenceTop tips for successfully scaling to sellHiring for company cultureManaging change through mergers and acquisitionsAdapting leadership from small to scaled teamsTeam empowerment and why it's crucialWhat parenting teaches us about leadership

    Join us on the Building Doors podcast as Angus Ferguson unpacks his fascinating transition from soccer to tech and real estate. He shares invaluable insights on scaling businesses, preserving culture during mergers, and mastering effective leadership. Discover how passion, resilience, and strategic hiring can turn challenges into opportunities and drive success. Tune in for a masterclass in leadership and growth.

    Connect with Angus Ferguson:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angus-ferguson-00555657/?originalSubdomain=au

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan speaks with Andrew Chapman, a prominent figure in the construction industry and the CEO of the Queensland Major Contractors Association (QMCA).

    Andrew addresses the significant productivity decline in the sector over the past decade, driven by shifts from private to public sector projects and evolving regulations. He underscores the need for innovation and improved project sequencing.

    He also shares personal anecdotes and his vision for a more efficient and appealing industry.

    Andrew is a civil engineer with extensive experience across the entire project lifecycle—from planning and design to construction and maintenance. His career includes roles at Seymour Whyte, Thiess, GHD, and Transfield Services. As CEO of QMCA, Andrew leads the organization representing major construction and civil engineering firms in Queensland.

    In this episode we explore:

    Family experiences and the importance of underlying passion in your career of choiceThe productivity decline over the last 5 years and what needs to change Why we should be avoiding boom-bust cycles with better planningHow our industry standards and agreements impact productivity The goals of innovating and attracting talent for a better industry.

    In this episode, Andrew provides a deep dive into the challenges facing the construction industry, from productivity issues to regulatory impacts. He advocates for embracing innovation and effective project management to improve the industry. His personal and professional insights offer a compelling look at his commitment to creating a better, more efficient industry.

    Connect with Andrew Chapman:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-chapman-30711216

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Vincent Williams, founder of Tungsten, to explore actionable strategies for enhancing productivity.

    Vincent reveals how adopting a four-day work week has reshaped his company’s culture and efficiency.

    In this episode we dive into:

    Implementing a Four-Day Work Week: Discover how this bold move led to higher productivity and improved employee satisfaction.Overcoming Adaptation Challenges: Learn practical strategies for adjusting to new work habits and integrating them into your business model.Customer-Centric Strategies: Understand how focusing on customer needs can drive success while maintaining a balanced work environment.Balancing Business and Family Life: Gain insights into managing professional responsibilities alongside family commitments.Innovative Leadership Techniques: Explore leadership practices that foster a productive and engaged workforce.

    Vincent’s journey from Brisbane to Utah and the evolution of Tungsten offer valuable lessons on driving operational efficiency and work-life balance.

    Tune in for practical advice and real-world examples that you can apply to your own business.

    Connect with Vincent Williams:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vince-williams

    Website: https://www.tungsten.com.au

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children.

    In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • In this insightful episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan is joined by Martin G. Moore, the former CEO of CS Energy, who transformed the company from struggling under massive debt to achieving a staggering compound annual growth rate of 125%.

    Marty’s journey is a testament to the power of effective leadership, strategic communication, and the delicate balance between empathy and accountability.

    During their conversation, Marty dives deep into the complexities of leadership, especially the challenges faced when transitioning from a peer to a leadership role in team environments.

    He stresses the need to rebuild relationships and set clear expectations to ensure fairness in the workplace.

    Marty also tackles the sensitive issue of managing mental health in the workplace, offering a personalised approach that balances compassion with performance management.

    Marty’s practical advice, drawn from his personal experiences, provides invaluable guidance for leaders at all levels.

    From avoiding assumptions about employees' needs to fostering a culture of direct communication and trust, this episode is packed with actionable insights that can help you build a resilient and high-performing team.

    In this episode, we explore:

    Transitioning through Leadership Levels: Marty’s strategies for moving from peer to supervisor and resetting relationships.Setting Clear Expectations: The role of clear communication in creating a standard of expectation in teams. Integrating Performance and Mental Health: Marty’s approach to merging performance management with mental health support.Building Trust: How to establish credibility by resetting relationships and setting boundaries across all levels. Practical Leadership Advice: Real-world strategies for overcoming the most common leadership challenges across all levels.

    Marty Moore’s insights into leadership transitions and mental health management provide a roadmap for building stronger, more resilient teams.

    Tune in to this episode of the Building Doors Podcast to learn how you can implement these strategies to navigate complexity in your role and build a culture of success.

    Connect with Marty Moore:

    LinkedIn: Martin G. MooreWebsite: No Bullsh!t Leadership

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan founded Karan & Co in 2022, shifting focus to retention through career coaching and development. Inspired by her philosophy that “If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door,” she created the Building Doors podcast to help others unlock their potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts 🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life:

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn
    📝 Building Doors newsletter: Subscribe

    Want to support the show?

    Hit ‘Follow’.Leave a 5-star rating.Share this episode with a friend to help the podcast reach more people.

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast, get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • Don Mackay's career is a testament to exceptional leadership and strategic execution.

    As the current Chairman of Seymour Whyte Group, Don brings a wealth of knowledge and insight from his previous roles, including Managing Director of AACo and Rangers Valley, and Senior Executive at Elders.

    His tenure at these organizations underscores his ability to drive business development and change management.

    Furthermore, his role as a non-executive director at Thames Pastoral Co Pty Ltd, combined with his leadership at New Harvest Investment Management and the Red Meat Advisory Council (RMAC), highlights his diverse experience and commitment to advancing the agricultural industry.

    Throughout his career, Don has been celebrated for his strategic planning and business strategy skills, making significant contributions to agribusiness.

    His dedication to the industry was recognized with the Prime Minister’s Centenary Medal for services to Agriculture, marking him as a distinguished figure in the field.

    Don's past chairmanship of the Red Meat Advisory Board further emphasizes his influence and the respect he commands within the industry.

    From his beginnings at Dubbo High School to becoming a leading voice in agriculture, Don Mackay’s journey is one of resilience, innovation, and impactful leadership.

    In this episode we get a rare insight into Don’s career history and cover the following key areas:

    · Maintaining market confidence in shifting economic landscape

    · The power of embracing the value of experience and storytelling as leaders

    · Focusing on the data and detail to drive value in strategic decision making

    · Linking consumer confidence with quality and why we should never take it for granted

    · Reframing our purpose and redefining our home through our connection to community

    · The essential need to continuously reflect on our leadership journey for true growth

    Don highlights the importance of strong leadership and meeting rigorous standards to succeed in global markets and ensure high-quality products. He reminds us why continuously elevating industry standards and emphasising personal mentorship play crucial roles in business success.

    One element that shine’s through as Don’s success is his emphasis on the value of community and he offers insights into how these elements contributed to both his professional and personal growth as a leader.

    You can connect with Donald Mackay here to learn more about his journey.

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • James Whittaker is a three-time bestselling author, award-winning entrepreneur, and host of the Win the Day with James Whittaker podcast.

    He has helped thousands of people in 20+ countries to Win the Day® every day, and he has personally coached Olympic gold medalists, billion-dollar CEOs, and Special Forces operators.

    His superpower is helping ambitious but frustrated people gain immediate clarity on what they want and give them a bulletproof plan to achieve it.

    He is an author with The Napoleon Hill Foundation, a speaker with SUCCESS Magazine, and Executive Producer of the multimillion-dollar Think and Grow Rich film.

    In this engaging podcast episode, James shares how his passion for helping people that shaped his successful career in podcasting, networking and business.

    He discusses the importance of providing value, building authentic relationships, and embracing a 'win the day' mentality in both personal and professional life.

    James also reveals his upcoming plans to apply his 'win the day' approach to organisational success, focusing on individual values, strengths, and well-being within companies.

    In this episode we explore James’ Win The Day Method and approach to building and scaling a successful global podcasting and personal growth empire.

    In this episode we explore

    Embracing rejection as a catalyst for growth Focusing on the incredible power of the right relationshipsHow continually adding value to your network builds loyalty The importance of establishing a personal growth routine Making bold career moves to stretch our skillsBecoming intentional in spending time with the people that matter most.

    In this podcast episode, James takes us on a remarkable journey from avid podcast listener to influential podcaster, unveiling how his deep-seated desire to uplift others has profoundly shaped his thriving career in podcasting and networking.

    Throughout our conversation, James underscores the pivotal role of delivering genuine value, cultivating authentic connections, and embracing a relentless 'win the day' mindset in both personal and professional arenas.

    His insights illuminate a path toward fostering impactful leadership, nurturing continuous personal growth, and catalysing positive change on a global scale.


    You can connect and follow James here:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameswhittaker1/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jameswhitt

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jameswhitt

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jpwhit

    YouTube: https://bit.ly/WinTheDayVideos

    Win the Day podcast: https://jameswhitt.com/podcast

    Free goodies (including Success Plan): https://jameswhitt.com/go-time

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

    highlighting the importance of resilience and adapting to new environments.

  • Daniel Mikus is the co-founder and co-CEO of road construction company MR Roads.

    Known for his innovative and proactive approach to solving business problems, Daniel spent 15 years in the asphalt industry before partnering with friend and former colleague James Rolph to launch Mikus-Rolph (MR) Roads in 2022.

    In 2023 Daniel’s company was awarded a Global Recognition Award and appeared in the likes of Forbes, Bloomberg and Business Insider after making $13 million in its first year.

    As a young entrepreneur and business leader, Dan lives with a relentless, ‘nothing is impossible’ mindset; scaling his business to take on the 'old guard' of the Australian asphalt industry.

    Dan is passionate about inspiring a new generation of thinkers and achievers. Deep in the trenches of developing a new asphalt plant and launching a community giveback program for local businesses,

    Dan works tirelessly to propel his team and sector forward to create better, safer, more sustainable roads for the future.

    Prior to his career in construction, Dan was an elite cyclist on track for the Beijing Olympics, before stepping down after contracting pneumonia. Dan's determination to recover, heal and pave a new journey for himself led him to launch a challenger brand in an industry that is ripe for disruption.

    We go through some of the key topics of his career and journey into entrepreneurship including:

    Embracing disruption and how an injury from cycling led to embarking on a new career pathway Increasing value in business through a client centred approach Reframing win/learn versus win/lose Why saying no is the fastest way to succeed in building a sustainable businessKeeping it simple and staying focused in leadership with a core focus on people and customersMastering your emotions and why finding joy in your hobbies is vital to your wellbeing

    Daniel shares his journey as an entrepreneur, the mindset it takes to succeed and reminds us that we first need to prove to ourselves what we can do for the world to sit up and take notice.

    He believes our legacy will always be in our own relationships and that in life, money is only ented and finding someone “equally yolked” in a partnership will be the true key to happiness.

    You can learn more about Mr Roads and their business journey here

    You can also connect with and follow Daniel on Linked In in his growth here

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • Stephanie Alekna is the Regional Construction Manager for Keller and has a wealth of experience in the civil contracting industry built over the past 10 years.


    With over a decade of experience in the construction industry, Steph's expertise spans various roles, particularly in the Foundation and Ground Engineering sectors across Australia. Through reflecting on her journey through pregnancy, raising a family and building a life and career in the construction industry at the same time, Stephanie provides valuable lessons on fostering diversity and inclusion in engineering and construction.

    Here we leave no stone unturned and unpack some of the real challenges of balance, flexibility and ways we can get creative to build more opportunities for an inclusive workforce and industry.

    Some of the points we cover incude:

    Empowering Female Leaders: Strategies for nurturing leadership among women in the industry.How Inclusivity Drives Diversity: The importance of inclusivity as a driver for diversity.Early Education and Attraction: Shaping perceptions of engineering and construction starting in primary school.Breaking Barriers and Stereotypes: Challenging the notion that construction is a "man's job."Balancing Work and Family: The significance of creating family-friendly work environments.Post-Motherhood Adaptation: Embracing changes and the new normal after maternity leave.Leadership Transformation: Shifting from a doer to a supportive leadership role to empower teams.Valuing Autonomy: Defining and fostering autonomy within teams.Attracting Talent: Making the industry more appealing to a diverse pool of talent.Innovative Work Models: Introducing job sharing, reshaping roles, and changing roster norms to enhance flexibility.

    In this special bonus episode of "Building Doors," we reflect on the path to creating a more inclusive and attractive construction industry.

    Discover how these changes can benefit not only the industry but also society as a whole.


    Tune in to hear real stories and practical insights on driving meaningful change in the construction and engineering sectors.

    Let's build a more diverse and inclusive future together.

    You can connect with the inspiring Stephanie Alekna on Linked In to learn more about her personal journey too.

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • Rochelle is the Founder and Managing Director of Share the Dignity, a national charity founded in 2015 with the mission to ensure that everyone is afforded the dignity in life that so many of us take for granted.

    Share the Dignity brings dignity to those who menstruate who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, domestic violence, or poverty through the distribution of period products and #ItsintheBag donations filled with essential items. The charity is powered by volunteers, and through Rochelle’s contagious spirit over 6,000 volunteers have jumped on board to make a difference.

    Share the Dignity has collected and distributed over 4 million period products through multiple initiatives across Australia. As well as holding national collections, Rochelle is passionate about advocating for change and creating long-term solutions.

    Rochelle has received accolades for her work including Finalist Australian of the Year, Cosmopolitan Humanitarian of the Year and Pride of Australia.

    In this episode we explore building doors of dignity for women and how a purpose-led cause can drive huge impact and potential for change in communities.

    We delve deep into the journey of founding a charity and gain lessons we can all apply to building a life of purpose for ourselves including:

    How our own empathy can bring a powerful calling for change: Rochelle shares with us the immense power that empathy for another person's struggle can bring. She gives insight into her own personal journey with endometriosis and how that led to her putting herself out there for a greater purpose.

    Using our power to give a voice to the tough issues: We talk about domestic violence and how we can no longer ignore one of our countries greatest failings to protect women and their families.

    Why finding the right tribe is key to build new foundations in business: We talk about Rochelle's journey transitioning industries and how building a powerful tribe around you with the skills you don't have is key to founding a growing a successful business.

    Balancing Busy Lives and Self-Care: Rochelle shares the challenges of constant busyness and exhaustion in pursuing goals, while also stressing the importance of taking time for ourselves and prioritizing our own health.

    Creating Safe Spaces and Building Solutions: Rochelle advocates for creating safe environments for teams to take risks and fail, while also encouraging us to not ignore societies problems and that we can build solutions through collective action and taking personal responsibility.

    Rochelle reminds us that with the right mindset and purpose- anything is possible and if truly we want change, we must be the ones to take the personal responsibility of making it happen.

    You can learn more about Rochelle and her charity "Share The Dignity" below as well as find ways to get involved.

    Instagram Handle:

    sharethedignityaustralia

    Individual Website and/or Company Website:

    Share the Dignity – In particular we are heavily promoting the Bloody Big Survey, which can be located here: Bloody Big Survey 2024 | Share the Dignity. (Please note only if posted before 31 May, as the survey ends at the end of this month.)


    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • Dr. Jeff Spencer, a seasoned professional with a remarkable five-decade career, stands as a testament to the power of goal setting and achievement.

    From the age of 7, he set his sights on the 1972 Olympic Games, a goal he not only accomplished but excelled in by competing in two cycling events.

    Dr. Jeff Spencer is celebrated as a mentor to thought leaders and businesses seeking exponential growth and iconic status.

    His clientele includes Tiger Woods, Sir Richard Branson, U2, Lance Armstrong, and Maria Sharapova, along with corporate giants like Nike, Hitachi, and Bulletproof. Dr. Spencer's multifaceted expertise, spanning chiropractic care, mindset coaching, and artistic endeavours, positions him uniquely as the guiding force behind the success of high-performing individuals.

    Throughout his journey, he has assisted athletes in clinching over 40 gold medals and guided cycling teams to eight Tour De France victories. Beyond his athletic pursuits, Dr. Spencer is a prolific author, an acclaimed International Sports Chiropractor of the Year, and the creator of The Champion’s Blueprint methodology. His diverse talents extend to the realm of art, with his glass-blowing creations showcased in prestigious galleries worldwide.

    This early success ignited Dr. Spencer's passion for goal achievement, propelling him into a career as a human performance visionary and legendary coach. His winning formula gives us valuable insight into how entertainers win academy awards, how Olympians win gold medal and the universal approach to a champions mindset.

    In this episode we cover the depths of human achievement and gain invaluable insights from one of the world leading experts in the area including:

    · Winning as a learned skill and behaviour.

    · Busting out mythologies around what it takes for high achievement.

    · Fundamental principles around preparation and performance.

    · Investing in high performance coaching as an insurance policy.

    · The formula used by elite achievers to excel in their field.

    · Fighting the ongoing battle between human and champion mindset.

    · Living boldly, with intent and purpose.

    · How to listen for our calling and choose a life in service of it.

    Jeff shares with deep emotion his immeasurable love for his daughter and her inconceivable challenges throughout her childhood.

    He reflects on how we can choose to consistently show up and love someone every day of our lives and that the right blend of love, unwavering persistence and support in a child can manifest miracles.

    He shares with deep emotion how his daughter is the most important thing he’s ever done in life.

    In some of his parting words, Dr Jeff sums up it up so well.

    The world needs good souls.

    Yeah, they're born, but they're pliable.

    They need good context to develop around.

    I just feel for myself that each and every one of us should make the decision to show up and be the best that we can be for everybody day in and day out.

    Yeah, we all have a tough life, but that shouldn't get in the way of us showing up with dignity, with honour and giving the best that we can give to other people.

    May we all leave the field knowing there is nothing more we could have done.

    Resources / links mentioned:

    Jeff Spencer website

    Jeff Spencer LinkedIn

    Jeff Spencer Instagram

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • Mathew Rigby is currently the Executive General Manager for Schlam, an award-winning Mining Equipment business gaining recognition for their culture driven with Mat’s leadership.

    Despite facing challenges such as an economic crisis, labour market shortages, and a global pandemic, the organisation has undergone tremendous transformation. Schlam has on average, an impressive 96.4 percent staff retention rate and 41% growth in its workforce, which now sits at over 500 employees.

    With over two decades of experience in the mining equipment industry, working with reputable OEMs such as WesTrac and Atlas Copco, as well as five years of contracting expertise, Mat possesses extensive knowledge in managing large and geographically dispersed teams.

    In 2022, under Mat's leadership, Schlam proudly earned the title of WA's Employer of the Year at the esteemed RISE Business Awards. A few months later, they were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work®', the first mining company to receive this certification.

    Furthermore, in 2023, Schlam was honoured as an Employer of Choice [EOC®] in The Australian Business Awards 2023.

    In this episode we delve into Mat’s moments of self-discovery and how his wellness journey helped shape a culture.

    We chat more about his journey including:

    · How we can learn from poor leadership and avoid repeating their mistakes

    · Why work should not mean sacrificing out mental health.

    · How his own health struggles led him to real change.

    · Why we should be present for our family and make it a priority now.

    · How simple routine changes can establish healthy habits.

    · The real impact of our lifestyle choices for our children.

    · Why hiring the right cultural fit and attitude is essential to growing a high performing business.

    Mat’s humble reflection on his leadership journey reminds us that through focusing on our own wellness and family as a priority, we can help shape a future generation in the mining and construction industry. He reminds us that if we support our teams, allow them the freedom to learn from failure and we hire the right attitude then we can create a work culture that people truly want to come to.

    Mathew can be connected with on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mat-rigby-3b323517/

    See below for contact and podcast details for Odhran McCorry

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/executivehealthcoach/

    https://theeliteexecutives.com/

    https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-elite-executive-podcast/id1705005624

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • David is the founder and face of AGEIST, a new media company and agency that champions the vitality, capabilities and influence of the modern 50+.

    He is a passionate champion and leading authority on the mindset and aspirations that drive this influential demographic.

    David is frequently called upon to share his expertise and insight at important venues and forums around the world.

    Recent speaking engagements include HIMSS in Las Vegas, the leading conference for health information and technology; TEDx, on Redefining Age; MONOCLE Quality of Life Conference in Zurich; The Mercedes Benz ME Convention in Stockholm and will address the Wellness Summit in Hong Kong later this year.

    Prior to launching AGEIST, David enjoyed an award-winning career as a photographer specializing in people-oriented advertising.

    His work for iconic brands including Nike, Adidas, Google, Coors, AT&T, Coke, Philip Morris, Toyota, Lexus, BMW, Corona, Gillette, Philips, Johnson & Johnson, Red Bull and many more has appeared in GQ, Esquire, Harper’s Bazaar, Wired, Interview, Time, The New York Times Magazine, and other outlets.

    In this episode full of thought-provoking moments and David’s direct and authentic approach we cover the following topics

    Why we should focus on wellbeing now including sleep, stress management, and food as fuel for the body.The retirement transition, loss of identity and inherent need of relevanceChallenges of disorientation and loss of identity in retirementShifting our focus from traditional retirement paradigms to maintaining agency in our own lives The key difference between purpose or passion and how it drives our fulfillment.The hidden narrative of ageism in advertising and consumerismUnderstanding the correlation between retirement and morbidity Politics and the social narratives around aging in politics

    David provides direct comment and candour in his answers and allows us to truly question our own inherent mindset on aging, retirement and what life beyond the traditional working landscape will look like for us all.

    You can learn more about David and his work with some of the resources and links below

    AGEIST: www.ageist.com

    What Type of SuperAger Are You? www.ageist.com/quiz

    The SuperAge Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/superage-live-better/id1514482663

    Instagram: @weareageist

    The AGEIST Weekly: https://www.ageist.com/newsletter/

    TEDX 2018: https://youtu.be/Cgcyxsjmm78

    Resources / links mentioned:

    ⚡ David Stewart website:

    https://davidharrystewart.com/

    www.ageist.com

    📝 David Stewart Facebook:

    https://www.facebook.com/weareageist

    📷 David Stewart Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/dhstewart/

    https://www.instagram.com/weareageist

    🌎 David Stewart Twitter:

    https://twitter.com/weareageist

    🔗 David Stewart LinkedIn:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-harry-stewart-0127466/

    🎤 TEDx Talk ’Redesigning Age’ by David Stewart:

    https://youtu.be/Cgcyxsjmm78


    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • Kim Kerton, aka Good Side of the Bed, is host, creator and producer of Unemployed & Afraid, a popular small business podcast for the brave self-employed with 100+ episodes, where she dives into the realities, practicalities and self-growth journey of starting a business from scratch - with the people doing it.

    She’s also a creative and commercially minded podcast strategist, helping brands and business owners build themselves big podcasts.

    Before all that, Kim was a baby entrepreneur, creating and closing two businesses before the age of 21, who then spent over a decade in the commercial radio business.

    She’s worked with brands like Squarespace, Queensland Tourism, Bendigo Bank, Vodafone and more, creating award winning and chart-topping brand environments, and was a recent Rising Star finalist in the Australian Podcast Awards for her own podcast Unemployed & Afraid.

    The unique combination of Kim’s experience as a podcast creator, celebrated interviewer, and small business owner, with her extensive commercial acumen in all things audio media, make her a strong strategic thinker and leading voice in small business growth and branded podcasting.

    In this episode we cover

    The challenge and risk involved in starting a business from scratchThe journey of self discovery as a business ownerWhy your ego hits the floor when you start out in businessNavigating uncertainty with a sprinkle of blind faithWhy it can be a lonely journey as an entrepreneur craving recognition How podcasting became her passionValuable tips and tricks on how to leverage podcasting as a branding tool for businessThe importance of a "keeping it real" voice for business owners on the journey

    Kim Kerton's journey from a young entrepreneur to founding a widely acclaimed podcast is a testament to her resilience and capability to learn through her journey.

    Through Unemployed & Afraid, she continues to inspire and empower aspiring entrepreneurs with practical insights and heartfelt storytelling sharing stories from the people out there braving the world of founding a business.

    For more on Kim check out these links:
    For more on Kim check out these links:

    LinkedIn: Kim Kerton and Unemployed & Afraid

    Instagram: Kim Kerton and Unemployed & Afraid

    TikTok: Kim Kerton and Unemployed & Afraid

    Online: Kim Kerton and Unemployed & Afraid

    You can listen to Unemployed & Afraid on

    Spotify

    Apple

    Or wherever else you get your podcasts.

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • Michael is the Chief Operating Officer for McKenzie Group Consulting, an industry leader in regulatory and compliance advisory services to the building industry, and part of the Bureau Veritas Group – a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification services.

    With a Bachelor of Applied Science in Construction Management from Queensland University of Technology and an Unrestricted Building Surveyor certification, Michael has been instrumental in delivering statutory and consulting services for some of the nation’s most significant construction projects since joining McKenzie Group in 2007.

    His tenure includes a pivotal role as the QLD State Manager from 2016 to 2022, followed by his promotion to Chief Operating Officer in 2023.

    In his current capacity, Michael spearheads a major restructure while overseeing the operations and 145 employees spread across the country.

    In this episode, we delve into the journey of career progression with our guest Michael, who shares insightful perspectives on building a career through various stages within a business.

    From unexpected career paths to the pivotal role of practical experience, Michael highlights the importance of ambition, flexibility, and resilience in achieving professional success.

    We cover his rise from regional through to national leadership and discuss:

    Keeping an open mind in our career path How practical experience is the true indicator of career goals Why we should look beyond just a job Balancing ambition and family How we evolve as a leader through the growth and acquisition of a business How our childhood shapes our resilience in leadership

    The challenge of addressing industry shortages

    The podcast concludes with a discussion on self-compassion and learning from mistakes, emphasizing the importance of being kind to oneself and embracing growth opportunities in the construction industry.

    Michael's journey offers valuable insights into navigating the intricacies of career growth, emphasizing the importance of resilience, ambition, and adaptability in achieving professional success.

    You can connect with Michael on Linked In here:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-leighton

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.

    The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career.

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

  • In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Dominique Gill, a trailblazer in the construction industry and a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion. From her early days in construction to founding Urban Core, the first female-led construction company in Australia, Dominique shares insights into her career, challenges faced by women in the industry, and her commitment to paving the way for future generations.

    Dominique Gill's career in construction spans over two decades, with nine years of experience in one of Australia's largest construction companies before she ventured to establish her own business, Urban Core, in 2016. Urban Core is breaking barriers as the first female-led construction company of its kind, reshaping the landscape of Australian construction with annual revenues exceeding $60 million and a track record of delivering hundreds of successful projects.

    Dominique's dedication to diversity and inclusion in the industry is evident through her advocacy and initiatives. She is a vocal champion for women in construction, actively promoting the industry to younger generations. In 2022, she launched NexGen, a non-profit program aimed at addressing female representation in construction, which has now become a multi-state initiative empowering female leaders to inspire future generations.

    With over 50 full-time staff, including a remarkable 50 percent female representation, Urban Core is expanding its footprint across three states under Dominique's leadership. She envisions further growth to challenge the prevailing notion that construction is exclusively a man's world.

    Despite her demanding career, Dominique is also a devoted mother to three school-aged daughters, demonstrating that motherhood and career success are not mutually exclusive.

    In this episode we talk through:

    Choosing Construction as a Career: Dominique shares how she found her path in construction and challenges the stereotype of it being a male-dominated field.

    Diversity and Inclusion: Addressing the image problem of construction and advocating for greater female representation in the industry.

    NexGen Initiative: The inspiration behind launching NexGen and its impact on encouraging young women to pursue careers in construction.

    Family and Work-life Balance: Insights from Dominique's personal experience balancing a demanding career with motherhood and the importance of switching off.

    Tackling Workplace Issues: Celebrating the importance of addressing issues head-on in the workplace to foster a more inclusive and productive environment.

    Dominique Gill's journey exemplifies resilience, leadership, and a commitment to driving positive change in the construction industry. As she continues to challenge stereotypes and champion diversity, her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring professionals and advocates alike.

    Connect with Dominique:

    Website: Urban Core http://www.urbancore.com.au

    LinkedIn: Dominique Gill https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominique-gill/

    NexGen Program https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-generation-construction-nexgen

    About your host:
    Lauren Karan, Director and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.


    Help someone else Build Doors in their career

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life
    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn
    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.
    2. Leave a 5-star rating.
    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…
    In case you missed it:
    You can listen to our previous episode here
    #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].



    Produced By The Podcast Boss

  • Dean is a salesman that happens to also be an international best-selling author, Doctoral Candidate, holds an Executive MBA from the AGSM, has a Law Degree - and along the way became a qualified yoga teacher.

    He’s delivered sales performance projects in over 25 countries for companies including Coca-Cola, Oracle, NewsCorp, Commbank, Accor, Goldman Sachs, Nomura Bank, Toyota, Macquarie Bank, Canon, and he’s even consulted to the Boston Consulting Group.

    His primary focus is working with Sales Managers in his 8-week virtual Accelerator program, focused on the “how to” of coaching and motivating salespeople.

    He also works with SME clients, providing them with access to over 100 sales training programs through his online Better Sales Academy.

    In this episode Dean us through his journey to a love of sales and the lessons we can all take away to improve own sales performance and accelerate the performance of our team.

    In this episode we cover

    · How we can find the profit every day in business

    · The questions we should be asking ourselves for success in sales.

    · How we can create a culture of sales in our business and focus on the right areas

    · Why we need to own our role as salespeople.

    · How we can develop a healthy expectation of failure

    · Adopting a win learn versus win lose mentality.

    · The importance of the right physical wellness in our mental agility

    Dean talks us through every aspect of sales in this insightful discussion and reminds us of the importance of focusing on win learn versus win lose.

    His laser tight focus on how we are all in the business of influence reminds us that it is within all of us to develop the right behaviours to positively impact our own sales results and that of our team.

    You can find more information about Dean and his program here and he’s also kindly provided some free downloadable resources below.

    Better Sales Coach LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/bettersalescoach

    Dean Mannix LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/deanmannix

    Better Sales Coach YouTube: www.youtube.com/@bettersalescoach4216

    Better Sales Coach Website: www.bettersalescoach.com

    Free Stuff…

    Sales Growth Blueprint Download: www.bettersalescoach.com

    Free Sales Training: www.bettersalescoach.com

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

    Produced By The Podcast Boss

  • Sara Harrup is a visionary leader with a diverse career, from managing a homeless shelter to becoming a transformative CEO.

    Her journey showcases resilience and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

    Sara works with people and organisations to gain deep insights about who they are and how to reach their potential.

    She has held multiple board and executive roles in for purpose, private and ASX companies.

    Sara’s lived the many complexities, nuances and challenges involved in leading organisations and has been supporting C Suite and Senior Executives as an Executive Coach since 2014.

    In this empowering episode, we sit down with Sara Harrup to explore a myriad of topics that delve deep into personal growth, professional development, and navigating life's challenges.

    In this episode you’ll learn more around how you can champion empathy and emotional intelligence in your own life.

    You’ll also walk away with a fresh approach on how you can redefine success and the power your own compassion can have in creating purposeful impact in the world.

    Leaving no stone unturned with Sara we cover:

    Embracing the power of your own narrative and how it shapes your journey.Understanding your strengths and finding your niche Finding the silver lining in our challenging experiences and turning them into valuable lessons.How we are always either moving towards growth or away from it.How identifying personal values helps in finding the right professional fit.The importance of making decisions based on integrity rather than seeking popularity.Insights into building and sustaining a fulfilling and happy relationships.Releasing guilt and prioritising our personal fulfillment.Practical tips for preventing burnout and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

    Sara's personal account of facing breast cancer and navigating single parenthood and how it fostered greater accountability gives us insight into navigating our own life challenges.

    Her candid discussions around gender norms in household work distribution as well as emotional maturity in relationships gives us food for thought about the standards we accept in our own lives.

    Sara's shares her perspective on justice and how it serves as her internal compass and takes us through the complexities of ADHD diagnosis and discovery.

    Tune in for an inspiring and candid conversation with Sara Harrup as she shares her wisdom on living authentically, not being afraid to “call it out” and living with courage to embrace the challenges that come our way.

    You can connect with Sara Harrup and learn more about her coaching programs and insights for executive leaders here.

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts

    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn

    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

    Produced By The Podcast Boss

  • Phillip Di Bella is a Director at the Di Bella Group of Companies.

    Phil’s secret sauce is that he has the unique ability to visualise and commercialise what others may never see. He doesn’t just build businesses- he builds communities.

    Though initially known for the establishment of Di Bella Coffee, which became Australia’s largest speciality coffee company, Phillip’s entrepreneurial spirit has brought success to other businesses such as International Coffee Traders, Abbotsford Road Specialty Coffee in New York, and more recently The Coffee Commune.

    Not satisfied with simply focusing on building his own successful businesses, Phillip has dedicated much of his time to supporting the growth and development of other businesses. Often referred to as an “Entrepreneur in Residence”, Phillip regularly lends his strategic thinking to businesses such as BDO Consulting, helping their clients overcome challenges, see new opportunities, and then supporting the commercialisation of these solutions.

    Phillip has further extended his commitment to the coaching and mentoring of other businesses through the establishment of The Coffee Commune - a business dedicated to the long term development, sustainability and success of the broader coffee industry for all participants. Through The Coffee Commune Phillip enthusiastically shares his experience and knowledge of the coffee industry and continues his passion for encouraging improvement and inspiration in others.

    In this episode we delve into:

    Choosing Your Brand in Business: The importance of emotional engagement in branding.Gratitude from humble beginnings: Reflecting on the journey from migrant to successful entrepreneur.Work-Life "Harmony": Why work-life balance is a myth and why harmony is a more realistic goal.Leadership Styles: Insights into different leadership styles in various business contexts.Strengths and Relationships: Understanding your strengths and shadow selves to improve relationships.Loyalty and Appreciation: Are people loyal to you or the need for you? The significance of showing appreciation in personal and professional relationships.

    Phil Di Bella reminds us the importance of leading with our values, the power of community and how we should all continue to express gratitude for the moments and memories shared with those we love the most.

    You can learn more about Phil Di Bella's community the Coffee Commune here.

    About your host:

    Lauren Karan, Director and Founder of Karan & Co.

    With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development.

    Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast. The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.

    Help someone else Build Doors in their career

    💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts
    🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify

    Get more help to Build Doors in your own life

    🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn
    📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that

    Want to support the show?

    1. Hit ‘Follow’.

    2. Leave a 5-star rating.

    3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too).

    Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕

    Time to stop waiting and start building…

    In case you missed it:

    You can listen to our previous episode here

    #buildingdoorspodcast

    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at [email protected].

    Produced By The Podcast Boss