The Failure Proof Podcast
By Jamie Pride
The Failure Proof PodcastAug 06, 2019
Ep 38: Balder Tol - WeWork
On this episode I am joined by Balder Tol. Balder is the General Manager of WeWork Australia which he joined in 2016. Prior to joining WeWork, Balder was Airbnb’s first Australian hire and was also the general manager of Tank Stream labs.
During this conversation Balder discusses the impact of the pandemic on the office environment and how it will transform in the future. He also shares his views on the future of work and how he led the wework team through an immense amount turbulence and uncertainty.
Ep 37: Laura Keily - Legal Tech
Thank you for joining us on the podcast - where we explore performance, leadership, resilience and the mindset needed to thrive in the modern workplace. This weeks episode is brought to you by The Founder Lab - a free community where entrepreneurs can share ideas and experiences. Find out more at thefounderlab.com.au
On this episode I am joined by Laura Keily. Laura is the Founder and Managing Director of Immediation, an online dispute resolution platform aiming to make justice more accessible for all. A qualified arbitrator, specialist in corporations law and complex commercial litigation, Laura’s technical expertise is recognised in her appointment to the Law Council of Australia’s Corporations and Competition and Consumer Law Committees. Laura was a finalist in the Women’s Agenda Leadership Awards and the Women in Law Awards.
During this conversation Laura discusses her journey from barrister to technology entrepreneur and why she decided to start her business. We chat about being a startup founder, raising capital her views on attracting and managing talent.
Ep: 36 Mike Distefano - Business Agility
Hi everyone, thank you for joining us on the podcast - where we explore performance, leadership, resilience and the mindset needed to thrive in the modern workplace. This episode is brought to you by The Founder Lab - a free community where entrepreneurs can share ideas and experiences. Find out more at thefounderlab.com.au
On this episode I am joined by Mike Distefano. Mike is the Asia Pacific President of the organisation talent and strategy firm Korn Ferry. Between 2007 and 2017, he was Chief Marketing Officer of Korn Ferry and President of the Korn Ferry Institute.
During this conversation Mike & I discuss the topic of business agility and its relevance as we turn the corner of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a very practical focused conversation, and we chat about what leaders and organisations can do to empower their teams and build a culture of openness and performance. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Ep 35: John Meacock - Strategy
Thank you for joining us on the podcast - where we explore performance, leadership, resilience and the mindset needed to thrive in the modern workplace. This weeks episode is brought to you by The Founder Lab - a free community where entrepreneurs can share ideas and experiences. Find out more at thefounderlab.com.au.
On this episode I am joined by John Meacock. John is a highly influential leader with a focus on leading, growing and innovating business on a global stage.
For the last 2 years John has been based in New York working as the Deloitte Global Chief Strategy Officer, responsible for Strategy and Innovation across Deloitte's business of approximately US$50bn of revenue and 330,000 people. He has also held positions as the Deputy Chair of the Deloitte Global Board and Asia Pacific CSO. John's strategic mindset combined with expertise in understanding the impacts of technology on businesses and business models has helped him lead the transformation of Deloitte into an organisation that operates at the leading edge of technological change.
During this chat we discuss the future of the workforce, the impact of the global pandemic on corporate strategy & how businesses are thinking about organisational resilience. John has a wealth of experience and knowledge - I hope you enjoy this discussion.
Ep 34: Rohan Dredge - Technical Leadership
Hi everyone, thank you for joining us on the podcast - where we explore performance, leadership, resilience and the mindset needed to thrive in the modern workplace. This weeks episode is brought to you by The Founder Lab - a free community where entrepreneurs can share ideas and experiences. Find out more at thefounderlab.com.au.
So its good to be back after a bit of a break. To mix things up a bit, I will starting a new segment where I take questions from listeners. So if you have a question you want answered or a topic you want covered, then click this link - record a voice message - and your question might just get answered on a future episode.
On today's show I am joined by leadership coach, Rohan Dredge. Rohan is dedicated to authentic and effective leadership. For more than 2 decades he has taught leaders the essential skills to help them make the leap from someone who is excellent at their job to someone who is outstanding at leading people. He especially focuses on helping technical experts become better people leaders.
During this chat we cover a wide range of topics from building trust, creating sustainable leaders to how to be an effective coach - I hope you enjoy it.
If you would like to be a guest on the podcast, or find out more about me or the show, then go to www.jamiepride.com
To send us a question, or a message, then go to here.
Ep 33: Kieran Flanagan - Forever Skills
She has worked with many of the biggest companies and brands on the planet. She has appeared on tv and radio. Her latest book, co-authored with Dan Gregory, Forever Skills, looks at what won't change in a world changing at a mind boggling rate.
During this conversation Kieran discusses creativity, communication, control, and how the world has always been changing. We chat about about a huge number of topics from self discipline to coding. This was an extremely enjoyable and really thought provoking interview. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Ep 32: Mark Gustowski - Creative Enterprises
During this conversation Mark tells me about his journey in the startup ecosystem and his views on what it means for Australian businesses to be globally and regionally competitive. We also cover the Brisbane startup ecosystem, his thoughts on what makes a good founder, startup failure and mental health.
Mark has a wealth of knowledge and experience, so I am sure you will take something away from this conversation.
Ep 31: Liz Jackson - Brilliant Business Kids
Ep 30: String Nguyen - The Trusted Voice
On this episode I am joined by String Nguyen, the founder of The Trusted Voice - a platform that helps thought leaders improve their influence and develop their online presence. String is a pretty phenomenal founder, and this episode is worth listening to just to hear her amazing origin story and her view of the world.
Ep 29: Monica Wulff - Digital Love
She is also the host of the Digital Love podcast, which is dedicated to helping people make the most of their tech-time without losing themselves to the screen along the way.
In this episode Monica gives her views on the startup ecosystem - including discussing the negative "bro-hustle" startup culture, founder health and wellbeing and the value of mentors. Monica is an amazing, inspiring individual. I hope you enjoy the episode.
Ep 28: Scott Ko from ColourSpace
Ep 27: Chris Wilson - The Cognitive Enterprise
Prior to IBM, Chris was a senior Partner at Deloitte where he built the Fintech practice nationally, focusing on the role the firm could play within the broader, global startup ecosystem. To satiate this ongoing passion, Chris continues to play an active mentoring role for Tyro Fintech Hub, StartupBootcamp and FasterCapital.
This episode is jam packed with great insights. Chris discusses disruption and innovation in financial services, the importance of bringing diversity of ideas to a problem, the cognitive enterprise, corporate venture capital, and exponential technology.
Ep 26: Paul Naphtali - Venture Capital
On this weeks show I am joined by Paul Naphtali. Paul is the co-founder of Rampersand VC, an early stage Australian tech fund established in 2013 to help address the funding gap for Australian and New Zealand founders. Prior to becoming a venture capitalist, Paul held senior marketing roles in a number of high growth startups including Jajah, prior to it being acquired by Telefonica.
During this episode Paul discusses his journey from the corporate world, to startups and now to venture capital. He discusses the nuanced role that VC's play in supporting founders, and how he builds trusted relationships with the entrepreneurs that he invests in. We also chat about what strategies entrepreneurs can employ to develop a self care mindset, the role of Directors on startup boards, and the flawed mythology that sometimes surrounds startups. Lastly we discuss the makeup and dynamics that make a great entrepreneur.
Ep 25: Michael Biercuk - A Quantum Future
Q-CTRL is built on Michael's research leading the Quantum Control Lab at the University of Sydney, where he is a Professor of Quantum Physics and Quantum Technology. Michael holds both CEO and Professorial positions concurrently and in his academic role is a chief investigator in the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems.
As an award-winning experimental quantum physicist, Michael speaks with clarity and authority about science and technology, and is adept at making physics accessible for a lay audience - from what electricity is to how computers work.
Michael is one of the world's leading experts in the new emerging field of quantum technology; the work he is doing promises to be as transformational in the 21st century as harnessing electricity was in the 19th.
This episode is definitely one of my favourites, as myself and Michael talk about everything from the impact that quantum physics will have on our future, the importance of a liberal arts eduction to our mutual love of watches.
Michael is seriously smart, approachable and is his work is making a huge impact on the future. Enjoy the episode.
Ep 24: Chris Heuer - The Future of Work
Chris has launched or co-founded over a dozen different companies, including several creative agencies, a few software companies, a fashion modelling network and a global non-profit known as Social Media Club which enjoyed popularity around Australia for several years.
In addition to serving as an IBM Futurist focused on the future of work, he has spent the last few years as one of the lead mentors in Google's global Launchpad Accelerator program.
In this episode myself and Chris speak about his views on what makes a sustainable startup, and how chasing the next Unicorn isn't always the right thing to do. We discuss how human capital is often more important than venture capital - and his experiences as the lead mentor at Google.
We also discuss the future of work, including the impact that entrepreneurship has on the economy, and the nomadic nature of the modern workplace.
Ep 23: Giam Swiegers - Leadership
Prior to joining Aurecon, Giam was CEO of Deloitte Australia for 12 years, retiring in 2015. During this period the Australian firm grew to a practice of over 650 partners and 6,000 people with a net revenue of over AUD1.0 billion.
Giam is passionate about equality in all forms, and in 2005 he was awarded 'Best CEO for the advancement of women in business' by the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency. Giam's stewardship of Deloitte Australia led the firm to achieve several industry recognised awards, and in 2013 the AFR named it the accounting firm of the year.
In this interview we discuss Giam's path to leadership from his early days in South Africa, how he navigated the challenges of leading a partnership, and his views on boards and board diversity. We also discuss how he hires leaders - value potential more than experience - and how he brings data and insights into the recruitment process. Lastly we discuss his practical approach to setting vision and how he got through the dark times of leadership.
I have had the privilege of working under Giam's leadership, and consider him the greatest leaders I have ever worked for. I am certain any aspiring leader will take something away from his interview.
Ep 22: Taryn Willams - Entrepreneur
Ep 21: John King - Leadership
Internationally recognised as a senior teacher, coach, and program leader, John's executive clientele read like a list of the fortune 500. John is universally acknowledged as a leadership expert and is on the teaching staff of more Universities than I can list in the short time of this podcast introduction.
This episode is focused exclusively on John's thoughts on leadership. We discuss the five stages of leadership maturity - and the values and makeup of a great leaders. We also chat about how organisations and individuals improve their leadership capacity - and the difference between management and leadership.
It is an absolute privilege to have such an expert on the podcast. I want to dedicate this episode to everyone out there who are suffering under poor leadership. There is hope. Good leaders can and do exist - and you need to lead by example. Whether you are working in the corporate world or starting a business being a great leader is the foundation of being successful. I am sure you will take something away from this episode.
Ep 20: James Spenceley - Entrepreneur
In this episode we speak about how James made the leap from the corporate world to founding Vocus and what it was like to let go of the company he founded. We also speak about his views on leading, hiring and inspiring people. His thoughts on the entrepreneurial environment in Australia are hugely insightful. If you are thinking about starting a business or thinking about investing then I think you will take a lot away from this episode.
Ep 19: Kelly Slessor - Shop You
In this interview Kelly speaks about the journey of founding her business, how to realise a product vision, the importance of prototyping and the two edge sword of startup advice. Kelly also recently attended a 2 day silent meditation retreat at a Buddhist monastery - that story alone is a good laugh. We riff on the importance and challenge of mediation, so if you are keen to explore meditation or detachment further it worth a listen.
If you are a startup founder or are thinking about leaving the corporate world to start one you will get a lot out of this episode.
Ep 18: Matt Allen - Amazon
He (along with his wife, Aprill) is a prolific angel investor with a portfolio of 14 companies, 3 Startmate cohorts and 2 VC funds. Prior to AWS he ran Lookahead Search in Melbourne, and has been the co-founder of three startups. Mixed in there he ran a Wireless ISP, a hosting company, played the bass and lived on a farm. When not talking shop about startups, he's hanging out with his two sons and driving his Model S or flying his drone. His favourite question is "What's Next?"
In this interview Matt speaks about his first business, what he learnt, and the personal impact it had on him. How he diversifies risk, and his approach to angel investing. He also discusses what makes a good founder, why co-founder's don't get on, and why it's important to let founders take money off the table.
Ep 17: Karen Lawson - CEO
Ep 16: Jo Burston - Rare Birds
Jo is also extremely passionate about building business skills in kids. Jo collaborated with Phronesis Academy co-founder Dr Richard Seymour, from the University of Sydney to develop its first program startup.business. The program is being taught in primary and secondary schools and is being rolled out nationally.
In this interview Jo speaks about the sliding door moment that started her on the path to being an entrepreneur, the skills she believes are required to be a great entrepreneur and how she has dealt with adversity. There are some amazing insights in this interview - everything from daily routines to meditation. I'm sure you will take something of value away from it.
Ep 15: Todd Forest - NAB Ventures
In this interview Todd speaks about his journey from Nike to NAB, how he makes Angel investments, disruption in financial services, and how he approaches corporate venturing at NAB ventures. He also talks about his views on adversity and the highs and lows of startup life.
Todd has had a huge range of experience. He has great insights and I'm sure you will take something away from this interview.
Ep 14: Jane Bianchini - Alcami Interactive
Ep 13: Charlie Wood - IAG Ventures
In this interview Charlie speaks about his views on adversity, managing change, and how he maintains balance as a busy executive. Charlie has had a interesting journey and I am sure you will definitely take something away from it.
Ep 12: Osher Günsberg - Mental Health
In this interview Osher speaks very openly about his mental health journey, the motivation behind writing his latest book, and training for the cover of Mens Heath Magazine.
A word of warning. This episode speaks frankly about mental health and suicide ideation. If you are struggling please get help. Its absolutely crucial that you talk to someone. In Australia you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Osher is one of the most amazing people I have ever met. He has been extremely brave in destigmatising mental health and I am sure you will take something away from this interview.
Ep 11: Constantine Georgiou - Self Inquiry
In this interview Con shares his views on life coaches, radical self inquiry, and life after a business exit. He also touches on how he beat anxiety, the work of Byron Katie and how he thinks Stoicism is a great tool for high performing executives and entrepreneurs.
If you are looking to get deeper into your motivations and understand yourself better then you will take a lot away from this interview.
Ep 10: Nikki Fogden-Moore - The Mojo Maker
In this interview Nikki talks about vitality and her unique view on how executives and entrepreneurs can keep themselves healthy and well balanced in a sustainable way! She also discusses her thoughts on failure, her decision to take the leap to leave the corporate world, and how she decides who she will work with.
If you are looking to get motivated and improve your well being I am sure you will take a lot away from this interview.
Ep 9: Alan Jones - M8 Ventures
He is a founding investor in Australian tech startup venture funds Pollenizer, Startmate and Blackbird Ventures. Alan is currently raising a new venture fund, M8 Ventures, focusing on pre-seed and seed investment in early-stage tech startups in Australia and New Zealand.
Alan has been an active angel investor here and in the US, with investments including Bugcrowd, Buzzy, Biteable, Elevio, GeoSnap, HappyCo, HowAboutEat, Macropod, Muru Music, Propeller Aero, TopMe, Tzukuri, Workyard, UpGuard and Upperstory.
In this interview Alan talks about what it means to be an entrepreneur in Australia and some of our cultural hangups coming to terms with that. He also discusses how he manages stress and his views on what he looks for in a startup, solo founders v co-founders, how to manage investors and much more.
Ep 8: Janine Garner - Thought Leader
Prior to running her own company, Janine held various senior leadership roles at Oroton , Ralph Lauren, Citizen watches, Sainsburys and Coats Viyella in the UK. Her clients today include Hewlett Packard Enterprise, DXC Technologies, CBRE, EY and Westpac among many other top 100 ASX listed companies.
In this interview Janine talks about her decision to leave the corporate world and the ups and downs of that journey. We also discuss at length the value of building networks as a leader and how teams can be more effective.
Ep 7: Jack Delosa - The Entourage
Jack also hosts the Sky Business series 'Entrepreneurs' and has been listed in the BRW Young Rich List since 2014. He is the author of several books including UnProfessional and his latest book UnWritten, reached bestseller status in just one week.
In this interview Jack talks about his journey, his views on the changing education landscape and the near death of his business in 2016. In particular he discusses how he got through that adversity and the lessons he has learned from it.
Ep 6: Dan Gregory - The Impossible Institute
Dan has worked as a stand up comedian, developed new product lines for Coca-Cola and Unilever, been a regular on ABC TV's "Gruen" series and launched engagement campaigns for companies as varied as Vodafone, MTV and the United Nations. He is also the co-author, along with Kieran Flanagan, of Selfish, Scared and Stupid: Stop Fighting Human Nature And Increase Your Performance, Engagement And Influence.
In this interview Dan discusses his thoughts on human behaviour, advertising, leadership, sales, the future of the workplace and the skills required to be successful.
Ep 5: Allen Liao - Tzukuri
Allen's story is amazing. He started out knowing nothing about how to build and develop eyewear - and ended up with garage full of manufacturing machines. In the process he recruited several world leaders to help him along the journey, raised capital, and got a product to market. A true "garage" startup story.
In this interview we discuss Allen's thoughts on design, the challenges he faced building hardware, and the personal impact on him including being hospitalised along the way - the emotional rollercoaster of startups!
Ep 4: Andrea Culligan - Entrepreneur
Today's episode is particularly special, as Andrea speaks openly about the emotional rollercoaster that she went on when her business went into administration and how that impacted her both professionally, but more importantly personally. Andrea is particularly raw and brave in this interview and her story and her spirit are just amazing.
Ep 3: Frank Cuiuli - Pivot
When it comes to Peak Performance and Flow Science, Frank Cuiuli is a leading practitioner and neuro physics therapist. Frank has 30+ years competing at elite levels as a martial artist, and has held senior sales leadership positions in global technology companies.
He also an entrepreneur, having co-founded and subsequently sold Velteo, a leading sales force.com integrator.
Frank talks about peak performance, his views on executive health and what it takes to be a great leader. Lots of great material in this interview. I hope you enjoy it.
This episode was brought to you by The Founder Lab who deliver courses and programs to help build better founders. You can find out more at www.thefounderlab.com.au and if you would like to find out more about me or the podcast, then check out www.jamiepride.com.
Ep 2: Ben Sharp - Entrepreneur
Ben co-founded Allure Media which was subsequently sold to Fairfax in 2012, and then went on to launch the AdRoll business into Australia in 2014.
As a mentor and investor he has supported Conversant Media, helped launch Audience Republic, and more recently operated as an Entrepreneur in Residence for the QUT Collider Accelerator programme. Ben is also an active Angel investor into a range of early stage businesses.
Ben shares his views on angel investing, what it takes to be a great startup founder and how he has overcome adversity in his career.
This episode was brought to you by The Founder Lab who deliver courses and programs to help build better founders. You can find out more at www.thefounderlab.com.au and if you would like to find out more about me or the podcast, then check out www.jamiepride.com.
Ep 1: Matthew Bardsley - MedicalDirector
Matt started his career as a computer programmer, before moving on to develop medical imaging technology used in radiology. In 1999, at just 26, he founded medical software company Digital Diagnostic Imaging (DDI) Health, which provided digital solutions for accessing high-quality diagnostic images of patients. Following a fifteen-year role as a Chief Information Officer in healthcare, Matt was appointed MedicalDirector's CEO in 2016.
Matt shares his views on leadership, building a vision and managing culture in a high growth corporate environment. He also shares his views on failure, dealing with stress and how he manages his days. Its is great episode I hope you enjoy it.
This episode was brought to you by The Founder Lab who provide courses and programs to help build better founders. You can find out more at www.thefounderlab.com.au and if you would like to find out more about me or the podcast, then check out www.jamiepride.com.