Episodes
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In this incredible episode I sit down with Rachel McHugh, a dynamic leader in the gaming industry with a fascinating career journey that proves there’s no one path to success. With a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing and Demography, Rachel initially aspired to become a demographer for the Australian Bureau of Statistics. But life had different plans!
Rachel shares her story of pivoting from her initial dreams to a career in marketing, first with Dental Corporation and Yokogawa, before making a bold leap into the gaming industry. With no prior experience, Rachel took a chance and landed a role at IGT as a Product Coordinator, quickly rising to Product Manager for ANZ, where she stayed for nearly six years. Today, she is the Senior Product Manager for the APAC region at Ainsworth Game Technology, where she leads go-to-market strategies, product roadmap development, sales enablement, and fosters cross-functional collaboration.
In our conversation, Rachel opens up about her experiences in mentoring, her insights into entering the gaming industry, and the challenges she has faced along the way. We also discuss the importance of women in leadership, finding time for oneself, and achieving balance in a demanding industry. Rachel’s background in demography continues to influence her work as she navigates market data and release strategies, helping to better align games and roadmaps with market needs.
If you're curious about the gaming industry, interested in product management, or passionate about women's leadership, this episode is for you! Tune in to hear Rachel's inspiring journey, her advice for overcoming challenges, and her tips on finding balance while forging a path in a fast-paced world.
Don’t miss this engaging episode with Rachel McHugh – listen and download now!
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In this episode, I dive into the fascinating world of Mystery Shopping, exploring how to bring data to life to create unforgettable customer experiences and elevate service standards. Join me as I uncover the secrets behind our proprietary OARS system, featuring over 10,000 carefully crafted questions designed to evaluate every aspect of a business. Through comprehensive benchmarking and trend analysis, we provide businesses with the insights they need to excel in today's competitive market.
I also introduce our versatile audits, available for various industries, which can be handed over to a friend or family member to assess a business using objective, customer-focused questions. By mapping the entire customer journey, these audits offer a fresh perspective, helping businesses identify areas of improvement and drive meaningful change.
Don't miss this opportunity to discover how mystery shopping can be a game-changer for your business!
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode, we dive into the digital landscape with Tracy Sheen, author of the award-winning "The End of Technophobia" and the upcoming "AI & U: Business Reimagined." Tracy, a leading futurist in APAC, is renowned for demystifying complex tech concepts and making them accessible for businesses of all sizes. With over 120 workshops delivered across Australia in the past year, she brings a wealth of experience and insights on leveraging AI and digital tools to foster business innovation and growth.
Join us as Tracy shares her journey from a Federal Government-approved Small Business Advisor to an esteemed judge at national awards and a regular media commentator on marketing and technology. We’ll explore her mission to bridge the digital divide in small businesses and her unique approach to empowering business owners to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Don’t miss this engaging conversation filled with practical tips, inspiring stories, and a few surprises that only Tracy can bring!
Links mentioned: https://user.thedigitalguide.com.au/i/SubscribeAIandU
https://youtu.be/Sq1QZB5baNw?si=T5HAXw9aZAjJ4RiN
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In this episode, I share my recent experience speaking at a conference outside the hospitality industry. It was an eye-opening opportunity to learn new things, meet inspiring people, and broaden my perspective.
I dive into the importance of continuous learning and education for personal and professional growth, and how stepping into different industries can enrich your journey and expand your network. Tune in to explore the value of staying curious and connected in our ever-evolving world.
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In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Tere Sheehan, CEO of Cherry Sports Group, and the creation of Purple Friday, a movement born out of a tragic domestic violence incident in Ballina. As the town was already struggling to recover from devastating floods, Tere's leadership and his team turned this dark moment into a powerful symbol of unity and resilience.
Partnering with the Rotary Club of Ballina on Richmond, Purple Friday mobilised the community, with 91 local businesses, schools, and organisations donning purple shirts every Friday to boldly stand against domestic violence.
This grassroots campaign, supported by a $30,000 investment from Cherry Sports Group, has sparked vital conversations, offered lifelines to those in need, and earned national recognition, including an invitation to Parliament House.
Tune in to hear how a small town turned its darkest hour into a beacon of hope and how Tere Sheehan and Cherry Sports Group are committed to ensuring the message of Purple Friday continues to resonate far and wide.
To Learn More: https://cherrystreet.com.au/
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In this episode, we delve into the heart of Red Gum BBQ, Australia's first B-Corporation certified restaurant, to uncover how Melissa Goffin and her team blend Southern charm with a commitment to sustainability, ethical business practices, and women's advocacy. Join us as we explore the journey of Red Gum BBQ from its humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in the hospitality industry.
Melissa Goffin, co-owner of Red Gum BBQ, has successfully navigated the complexities of sustainability, people and culture, and diversification in the competitive world of hospitality. Under her leadership, Red Gum BBQ has not only fostered a culture of innovation and community engagement but has also prioritised responsible sourcing and ethical practices.
Melissa shares the story of Red Gum BBQ, born from traditional family recipes and a passion for bringing people together over low and slow BBQ. From Martin's journey to becoming a Pitmaster to the couple's shared dream of creating an authentic southern-style barbecue restaurant in Australia, this episode is packed with inspiring anecdotes and valuable insights.
Join us for an engaging conversation that not only highlights the challenges and triumphs of running a hospitality business but also provides a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a positive impact in their communities. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the industry, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Tune in to discover how one restaurant is setting new standards for sustainability, people and culture, and diversification in the hospitality industry.
Learn More: https://redgumbbq.com.au/
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Phil's dedication extends beyond his business, as he actively supports local charities like Local Kind, Royal Far West, and Head High Skills. His efforts have not gone unnoticed; Ruby Lane has garnered numerous accolades, including the Northern Beaches Sustainability Award, Covered Magazine Coffee Championships, and a finalist position in the Restaurant & Catering Association's Best Breakfast in Sydney category, along with the Sydney Water Sustainability Award.
With a history of owning and managing multiple cafe and restaurant venues, overseeing franchising operations, and managing venues for Keystone Hospitality, Phil brings a wealth of experience to the table. He is a firm believer in the power of process management and developing a team of leaders who can execute these processes at the highest level.
Join us as we dive into Phil's journey, the success of Ruby Lane Wholefoods, and his vision for a sustainable and community-focused future in hospitality. Learn More: https://www.rubylane.com.au/
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Join me in this special episode as we commemorate three incredible decades in business. This journey wouldn't have been possible without the amazing clients, business associates, and mentors who have shared their wisdom, listened, and cared. To the thousands I've had the privilege to train, thank you. Your dedication and growth have been inspiring.
A heartfelt thank you to my incredible team at O.O.P.S. Your insights and reports have made a profound impact on our clients. To everyone who has allowed me to be part of their leadership and business journey, I'm deeply grateful.
A special shoutout to my family, friends, business mentor Tina Tower, and the best EA ever, Sarah Hall. Your support has been unwavering and invaluable.
In this episode, I share the story of these past 30 years—the catalysts, the importance of self-belief, perseverance, and the drive to achieve your full potential. Learn how to ignite the potential in others and choose the life you deserve, not the one other’s choose for you.
Tune in and reminisce with me as we celebrate this milestone and look forward to many more years of success! 🚀✨
#Podcast #BusinessAnniversary #Leadership #Perseverance #Inspiration #ThankYou #Celebration #30YearsInBusiness
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Get ready for an inspiring episode of my podcast as I welcome Peter, the CMO of Reflections Holidays. Leading the largest outdoor hospitality brand in NSW, Peter is at the forefront of an incredible brand transformation. In just two years, he has driven Reflections to new heights, increasing brand awareness by 35%, boosting revenue by 18%, and doubling the loyalty club to an impressive 300,000 members.
Under Peter's visionary leadership, Reflections is redefining camping, evolving from a traditional accommodation provider to a purpose-led experience brand. With a new brand identity launching in 2024, Peter and the team is spearheading the development of a cutting-edge e-commerce platform, a centralised reservations function, and a robust partnership program.
Before joining Reflections, Peter was the Managing Director at Enigma, where he played a pivotal role in doubling the agency's size and expanding its footprint to Sydney and Brisbane. With over 20 years of experience in the advertising industry, including leadership roles at Clemenger BBDO Melbourne and J Walter Thompson Melbourne, Peter brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise.
Peter is not just a marketing guru; he's also a keen outdoorsman and a passionate advocate for Regional Australia. He serves on the advisory board for marketing at the University of Newcastle and is a board member of the Merewether Carlton Rugby Club and the In-House Agency Council of Australia.
Join us as Peter shares the exciting journey of launching Reflections' new brand to an enthusiastic team and a supportive community. Discover how their loyalty program focuses on genuine guest loyalty, their market segmentation strategies, and their commitment to connecting guests with nature and adventure. This episode is packed with insights and inspiration for anyone interested in the dynamic world of hospitality and marketing. Don't miss it!
To learn more: https://reflectionsholidays.com.au/
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Join me for an insightful conversation with the dynamic duo behind Straight To The Source, Tawnya Bahr and Lucy Allon. In this episode, we delve into the world of culinary excellence, sustainability, and the importance of connecting with the origins of our food
Tawnya Bahr, an esteemed culinary expert, Group Executive Chef, and Director of Straight To The Source, shares her extensive experience and passion for the food industry. With over 26 years in the field, Tawnya is a prominent advisor and judge for organisations like Sydney Royal Fine Food and the Australian Culinary Federation. She is also a mentor for Women in Hospitality and FoodLab, actively shaping industry standards and championing sustainability.
🎙️Episode Highlights
- Tawnya Bahr’s journey as an esteemed culinary expert and Group Executive Chef.
- The mission and impact of Straight To The Source within the food supply chain.
- Insights into supporting food innovation and sustainability.
- Tawnya's role as a mentor and advocate in the food industry.
Don’t miss this inspiring discussion that sheds light on the future of food and the vital role of Australian farmers' markets.
https://finefoodaustralia.com.au/
https://omny.fm/shows/straight-to-the-source
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Join me for a compelling conversation with Rebekah Di Blasi, founder of Design Your Best Work Life, as we delve into the transformative power of early career experiences in hospitality and retail. With over 15 years in corporate HR and recruitment, Rebekah brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, particularly in supporting mid-career professionals through significant career transitions.
In This Episode:
- Rebekah’s Journey: Discover how Rebekah navigated her own career crossroads post-family life during the COVID-19 lockdowns, leveraging her extensive HR expertise to foster her career coaching practice.
- Hospitality to High Gear: Explore how early stints in hospitality and retail are not just jobs, but a foundation for building essential skills applicable across any career. Hear about her own experiences and the surprising ways they shaped her professional path.
- Real-Life Transitions: Be inspired by stories of individuals who have successfully transitioned from hospitality roles into vastly different fields, such as a chef becoming a policy officer or a venue manager evolving into a customer experience strategist.
- Staying Put: Sometimes, the best move is no move at all. We'll discuss why some choose to stay in their current roles and how mindset and external life factors play a crucial role in these decisions.
- The AI Effect: Get curious about the future as we touch on the role of AI in the workplace and what it means for skill transitions and career development.
Why You Should Listen:
Whether you’re contemplating a career shift or just curious about how diverse experiences can influence professional growth, this episode provides insights and real-world examples to help you design and pursue your best work life. Rebekah's expert advice, combined with personal anecdotes and client stories, offers a unique perspective on navigating career paths in today’s ever-changing landscape.
Tune in to uncover the hidden strengths gained from early career roles and learn how to harness them for future success. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion on shaping your career journey with intention and adaptability! Learn More about Rebekah https://www.designyourbestworklife.com/
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In this episode, I have the pleasure of hosting Emma MacGregor, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the Events and Hospitality Industries. Her extensive background spans venue management, catering, and sales, making her a true connector of like-minded individuals. Emma is passionate about sustainability and is committed to driving significant changes in an industry she deeply loves and understands.
Emma's expertise as an Event Producer is unparalleled. She has a natural eye for design and flow, ensuring that every event she touches runs seamlessly. Known for her hands-on, solution-driven approach, Emma is always ready to dive in and get things done, ensuring her clients enjoy a flawless experience while she works behind the scenes.
With professional connections across Australia and a deep understanding of Stage Management, Emma brings a wealth of on-ground qualifications, including RSA, Safe Food Handling, and First Aid Certifications. Her versatility allows her to seamlessly transition between front-of-house and back-of-house roles as needed, adapting to the dynamic demands of any event.
For the past four years, Emma has been the driving force behind the Little Food Festival held annually at Federation Square. This wonderful event encourages children to explore the food system and understand how their food choices impact their health and the environment. Emma’s dedication to creating engaging and educational experiences for kids showcases her commitment to making a positive impact through her work.
Tune in to this episode to hear Emma share her journey, insights, and passion for creating sustainable and seamless events. Learn how she continuously generates innovative ideas, provides creative solutions, and ensures every event is a memorable success. Whether you’re an industry professional or simply interested in the world of events, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.
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In this episode, I delve into how to prepare your hospitality venue for the upcoming Long Weekend. With cold weather setting in, it's essential to make your space appealing to both regulars and visitors. I'll discuss creating cozy spaces that invite guests to linger, the impact of fresh flowers on your decor, and how to craft an inviting ambience that sets your venue apart. Additionally, I highlight the importance of introducing a new, short menu that caters to the season, ensuring that your team are having fun and creating an environment that customers want to talk about and share on social media.
My goal is to help you make your venue the talk of the town and a must-visit destination. By focusing on these key elements, you can create a memorable experience that encourages guests to return and recommend your place to others. I'll also provide tips on how to encourage social media sharing, turning your venue into a hotspot for the Long Weekend. Tune in for practical advice and creative ideas to boost your venue's appeal and make it the go-to place for this special occasion.
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In this podcast episode, I delve into a personal experience at St. Vincent's Hospital, highlighting the valuable lessons we can learn by looking beyond our own industry. During my time at the hospital, I observed various operational practices, communication strategies, and cultural aspects that significantly enhanced efficiency and teamwork. By sharing this story, I aim to illustrate how we can draw inspiration from different sectors and integrate these insights into our own businesses to foster better communication, streamline job roles, and cultivate a positive workplace culture.
Through this narrative, I emphasise the importance of cross-industry learning and the benefits it can bring to our professional environments. By adopting successful practices from other fields, we can address challenges more effectively and create more cohesive, efficient teams. This episode encourages listeners to remain open-minded and proactive in seeking out innovative approaches from various industries to drive improvements and achieve greater success in their own organisations.
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Are you making one of the four biggest mistakes that can derail your business? In my latest episode, I uncover the critical errors many business owners overlook. From setting a clear vision to the essential skills you need to lead, I’ve got you covered.
Join me as I tease out the hidden traps and share strategies to steer your business towards success. Don’t miss out on these game-changing insights—tune in and transform your approach to business management!
Hospitality Momentum: https://www.hospitalityteam.com.au/hospitalitymomentum
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Join me for an insightful conversation with Bart Sobies, the powerhouse behind The Accommodation Show, iBooked.Online, and the STRIVE to Thrive Conference. Bart's entrepreneurial journey began at just 15 with his first online business, which grew into a successful tech company. With his deep expertise in technology, marketing, and investment, Bart has become a guiding light in the hospitality industry.
As an authority on direct bookings, marketing, branding, and digital products, Bart has helped thousands of hospitality owners generate millions in additional revenue through iBooked.Online. He also leads the Accommodation Professionals Network, a vibrant community of over 2,500 professionals sharing industry insights.
In 2023, Bart led the ground-breaking 5-Day AI Challenge, educating hosts on leveraging AI to boost direct bookings. His influence spans the globe with speaking engagements at prestigious events like ASTRA Conference, The Book Direct Show, Vintory Mastermind, and No Vacancy.
This year, Bart is touring Australia, presenting at key conferences, and sharing his knowledge on industry podcasts. Tune in to discover how you can elevate your direct bookings and thrive in the competitive tourism landscape! 🌏✨
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In this episode, we delve into the captivating journey of Steve Jeffares, a filmmaker turned craft beer pioneer. Steve's story begins with a pivotal moment in 2000, when he experienced a beer revelation while living in Los Angeles. Upon returning to Melbourne, he, along with Guy Greenstone and Justin Joiner, co-founded The Local Taphouse in Melbourne and Sydney. These pubs not only introduced Australians to a new level of craft beer appreciation but also laid the foundation for what would later become the renowned GABS festival (Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular).
From these humble beginnings, GABS has evolved into Australasia's premier beer festival, attracting over 55,000 enthusiasts annually across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Auckland. Inspired by a year in New York City, Steve ventured into brewing, co-founding Stomping Ground Brewing Co in 2016. With its popular Beer Halls, Stomping Ground has revitalised Collingwood as a hub for independent brewing, harking back to the suburb's rich brewing history.
In this episode, we explore Steve Jeffares' journey from filmmaker to beer visionary, tracing the evolution of craft beer culture in Australia and the impact of initiatives like The Local Taphouse and GABS festival. Join us as we raise a glass to the spirit of innovation and community that defines Stomping Ground Brewing Co and its quest to make great beer accessible to all.
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Welcome to this exciting episode of our podcast where we delve into the vibrant world of Sydney's specialty coffee and hospitality scene with Alex Williams, a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of three renowned retail brands: The Commune Project, Dachshund Coffee, and Anvil Coffee Co. With over fourteen years of experience, Alex recounts his entrepreneurial journey, starting with the launch of Anvil Coffee Co on Kirribilli Wharf in 2013, which quickly gained recognition for its inspiring location and exceptional service. He discusses the philosophy and values that drive his brands, focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and high-quality products that resonate deeply with his community.
In this engaging conversation, Alex reveals five key strategies for enhancing customer interactions, transforming everyday transactions into meaningful relationships. These insights are a testament to the foundational belief of Dachshund Coffee—that relationships, not mere transactions, are essential in connecting with others. The episode also highlights how Alex’s ventures, including The Commune Project, integrate their mission into every aspect of their operation, from menu design to community engagement, fostering a culture of sustainability and inclusiveness.
Listeners will also learn about the notable achievements and media recognition that Alex's cafes have received, such as winning The Daily Telegraph's and Urban List Sydney's best coffee awards. This recognition has helped cement his businesses as top destinations for coffee lovers and those seeking a dog-friendly cafe experience. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and discover how intentional business practices can lead to success in the competitive hospitality industry, all from one of Sydney’s leading entrepreneurs.
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Once a high-flying chef in the world’s most prestigious kitchens, Jose Chavez has swapped his chef’s hat for the digital cap of SEO and blog growth mastery. With 15 years of stirring sauces and seasoning steaks in hatted establishments like Jacques Reymond and on shows such as MasterChef, Jose’s transition from kitchen to keyboard is nothing short of remarkable. Imagine cooking for culinary legends like Heston Blumenthal and Marco Pierre White – now he's using that precision and creativity to enhance digital dining experiences!
In this not-to-be-missed episode, we dive deep into Jose’s thrilling culinary adventures, including the times he impressed Heston Blumenthal not once, but twice. Discover how his passion for gastronomy and knack for storytelling are now fuelling his current venture, Digital Chef, where he crafts SEO-optimised blog posts that skyrocket online visibility for the hospitality industry.
Hear about his journey from high-level culinary arts to founding Digital Chef, a hub for robust social media strategies, influencer marketing, and mouth-watering menu consulting. Learn how Jose’s innovative SEO tactics and web design expertise are revolutionising digital marketing, making it a one-stop solution for dynamic online engagement.
Whether you're a food enthusiast, a budding chef, or a digital marketing professional, this episode offers valuable insights into balancing a passionate career with family life, and mastering the art of visibility in the digital age. Get ready to be inspired by Jose’s story of transformation and his strategic approach to driving organic traffic and enhancing Google rankings for the hospitality sector.
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Richard Jeffares' journey from craft beer enthusiast to gluten-free brewery pioneer is a tale of passion, resilience, and innovation. Diagnosed with Coeliac Disease in 2015, Jeffares faced the stark reality of a gluten-free diet, stripping him of the craft beer diversity he cherished in Australia. This seemed to mark the end of his craft beer adventures with friends, until a 2017 American road trip unveiled a surprising discovery: breweries producing gluten-free beer that rivalled, and sometimes surpassed, traditional offerings.
Motivated by this revelation, Jeffares founded TWØBAYS Brewing Co in 2018, revolutionising the gluten-free beer scene in Australia. TWØBAYS now offers a wide range of delicious, gluten-free craft beers, accessible nationwide in bottle shops, venues, and at its dedicated Mornington Peninsula Brewery.
We chat about all things brewing and the impact that Gluten Free Beer is having on the market as it is offered at major sporting arenas, including the MCG and complements menus in many fine dining establishments to ensure that all guests are catered for and included.
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