Have you ever wondered why some businesses go broke and others are successful? Have you ever wondered why some leaders rise to the top in difficult situations? For 40 years I was a corporate undertaker. I buried businesses that failed and helped save those where there was still a pulse. I was parachuted into some of corporate Australia’s biggest financial crisis, insolvencies and turnaround environments. I have been in Board rooms, Court rooms and on shop floors when all seems lost (and sometimes it was). Over decades at the coal face of business (often in the most difficult circumstances), I have seen & heard stories that delighted and inspired me, as well as those which serve as a guide of the path not to take. I also spent years in leadership roles at Ferrier Hodgson and KPMG Australia where I sat on the Board and was the National Consumer and Retail leader. The purpose of What I learned about Business (that didn’t kill me!) is to share the stories behind some of the world's most interesting business situations, how they unfolded, how my guests dealt with them, and how those experiences changed them and the way they do business. I hope that my podcast entertains and engages listeners who want to know more about the worlds great business leaders and the lessons that didn’t kill them……. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Retail is changing faster than ever. But are today's retailers really growing—or have they simply been riding a wave of inflation? James H Stewart sits down with Paul Martin , Global Retail Growth Leader and Partner at AlixPartners, one of the world's leading advisory firms specialising in retail transformation, performance improvement and turnaround. Having advised many of the world's largest retailers, consumer brands, boards and private equity firms across Europe, North America and Asia, Paul offers a unique global perspective on the forces reshaping the retail and consumer landscape. Together, James and Paul explore: Why inflation may have disguised underlying weakness across the retail sector The health of global retail and what lies ahead for consumer spending How tariffs, geopolitics and supply chain disruption are changing retail economics The explosive growth of Chinese marketplaces such as Temu and their impact on traditional retailers Why the resale economy is becoming one of retail's fastest-growing sectors Whether social media has become the new front door to retail How artificial intelligence and Agentic AI are transforming customer engagement, merchandising and business models Why the fundamentals of great retailing still matter in an increasingly digital world The retailers and business models Paul believes are best positioned to win over the next decade Whether you're a retailer, supplier, investor, executive, entrepreneur or simply fascinated by how consumer behaviour is evolving, this episode provides practical insights from one of the world's leading retail advisers. Connect with James Stewart 🌐 Website: https://jameshstewart.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatilearnedinbusiness/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatILearnedInBusiness If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with your network. Your support helps us continue bringing world-class business leaders and thinkers to the show. Disclaimer The views expressed by guests on What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!) are their own and are shared for general information and discussion purposes only. They do not constitute financial, investment, legal or professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Listeners should seek independent professional advice before making business, financial or investment decisions based on any matters discussed in this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Geoff Wilson AO is one of Australia's most outspoken advocates for retail shareholders. As the founder and Chairman of Wilson Asset Management, Geoff has spent almost five decades navigating financial markets, building one of Australia's leading investment firms and becoming a powerful voice on corporate governance, shareholder activism and public policy. James H Stewart sits down with Geoff to discuss his journey from research analyst to managing billions of dollars on behalf of more than 130,000 investors. He shares the lessons learned through multiple market cycles and discusses the defining issues that have shaped Geoff's career, including his campaigns for better corporate governance, his activism during the AMP board upheaval following the Royal Commission, and the highly publicised franking credits campaign that became one of the biggest political issues of the 2019 Federal Election. The conversation then turns to today's economic landscape, where Geoff offers his perspective on Australia's competitiveness as a destination for investment, the 2026 Federal Budget, proposed changes to capital gains tax, productivity, regulation, and what governments should be doing to encourage business growth, entrepreneurship and long-term investment. Finally, Geoff discusses the remarkable success of the Future Generation investment companies, which have directed more than $100 million to Australian charities supporting children, youth and mental health. Whether you're an investor, business owner, company director or simply interested in Australia's economic future, this is a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, markets, governance and the importance of backing your convictions. In this episode we discuss: Geoff's journey to founding Wilson Asset Management Lessons from nearly 50 years in investment markets Shareholder activism and corporate governance The AMP board renewal following the Royal Commission The 2019 franking credits campaign Australia's competitiveness for investment capital Capital gains tax, productivity and the 2026 Federal Budget Future Generation and investing for social impact Leadership, philanthropy and building a lasting legacy If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with someone who enjoys thoughtful conversations about business, leadership and investing. Connect with James Stewart LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatilearnedinbusiness/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatILearnedInBusiness Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by Geoff Wilson and James H Stewart in this episode are their own and are provided for general information and discussion purposes only. Nothing in this podcast should be construed as financial, investment, taxation, accounting or legal advice, or as a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any investment or financial product. Investment markets involve risk, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Before making any investment or financial decision, you should seek advice from a suitably qualified professional who understands your individual objectives, financial circumstances and needs. The discussion in this episode may reference companies, investment strategies, taxation policy, legislation and market conditions that were current at the time of recording and may change over time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
LMND may be the hottest female fashion brand in Australia right now. James H Stewart sits down with Ana Escobar , founder of Australian fashion label LMND , to explore an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey spanning two continents, some of Australia's best-known retail brands, and the challenges of building a self funded premium fashion business. Born in Australia before moving to Colombia as a young child, Ana shares her remarkable story of growing up in Medellin, during one of Colombia's most turbulent periods before returning to Australia to pursue a career in fashion. From starting as a sales assistant at Oroton to becoming Brand Director, leading private label innovation at Big W, and ultimately launching LMND in 2018, Ana's career demonstrates the power of resilience, creativity and customer obsession. In this episode we discuss: • Growing up between Australia and Colombia and the experiences that shaped her outlook. • Building a career through Oroton, Apparel Group and Big W. • Why she left corporate retail to launch LMND. • Identifying a gap in the market for premium wardrobe essentials. • Why LMND opened a physical store before launching online. • Building an international brand stocked by retailers including Myer, Selfridges and Neiman Marcus. • Growing a business without external investors or private equity. • Customer-led product development and the importance of listening over ego. • Social media strategy without relying on paid influencers. • Scaling a founder-led business while protecting brand integrity. • The lessons Ana has learned from building one of Australia's fastest-growing independent fashion brands. Whether you're an entrepreneur, retailer, designer, business owner or simply fascinated by the journey of building a successful brand, Ana's story offers practical insights into leadership, innovation and disciplined business growth. Connect with James Stewart LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/ Website: https://jameshstewart.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatilearnedinbusiness/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatILearnedinBusiness If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with your network. Disclaimer The information, opinions and views expressed by guests on What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!) are their own and are provided for general information and discussion purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, investment or professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Listeners should obtain independent professional advice relevant to their own circumstances before making any business, financial or investment decisions. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, neither the host nor the producers accept responsibility for any loss arising from reliance on information contained in this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Alexander Group is New Zealand's leading specialist dangerous goods logostics business. James H Stewart sits down with Hayley Alexander, CEO of this 55-year-old family logistics business, to discuss the business remarkable journey and her personal evolution from a career in public service to CEO. Hayley’s path to leadership was far from conventional. Before joining the family business, she spent 10 years as a social worker in New Zealand and the UK, working in areas including domestic violence and child protection. She later joined Alexander Group in 2002 and has now led the business as CEO for more than eight years. In this conversation, James and Hayley discuss family business succession, leadership, safety, governance, culture, sustainability, artificial intelligence and the realities of running a high-risk transport business. They also explore what it takes to lead a multi-generational family enterprise with a 100-year vision. This episode is proudly supported by Family Business Association of Australia and New Zealand. Important disclaimer: This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed are those of the participants and do not constitute financial, legal, investment, business or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making any business or investment decisions. Connect with James: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/ Website: https://www.jameshstewart.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatilearnedinbusiness/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_WgwbOVsSuzuvXEgqNTl4g Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What can a funeral business teach us about leadership, trust, innovation and family business governance? Quite a lot, it turns out. In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me) , I sit down with James MacLeod OAM, Managing Director of Tobin Brothers Funerals, one of Australia's largest and most respected family-owned businesses. James's journey is remarkable. Starting as a coffin trimmer as a young boy, he worked his way through virtually every role in the organisation before becoming the first non-family Managing Director in the company's history. Today, he leads a team of approximately 280 people delivering around 7,000 funerals each year. This conversation goes far beyond the funeral industry. We explore the realities of leading a business that operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, supporting families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. We discuss succession planning, governance, culture, innovation, customer trust and the unique challenges of balancing family ownership with professional management. James also shares the story behind Tobin Brothers' bold decision to launch Fixed Price Cremations, a low-cost, no-service offering designed to compete directly with emerging disruptors in the market. It is a fascinating case study in self-disruption, strategic thinking and the lessons he brought back from executive education programs at INSEAD and Harvard. We also discuss: • The history and evolution of Tobin Brothers • The changing nature of funerals and memorial services • Cremation versus burial trends • Virtual funerals and the impact of COVID • Governance in multi-generational family businesses • The appointment of independent leadership and directors • Employee culture in a business built around grief and service • AI, automation and the future of funeral services • Emerging technologies including aquamation and environmentally sustainable alternatives to traditional burial and cremation This is a thoughtful, insightful and at times surprising conversation about an industry every one of us will engage with, but very few of us truly understand. Whether you're a business owner, director, executive, family business leader or simply curious about how great organisations build trust over generations, you'll find valuable lessons in this discussion. This episode is proudly supported by the Family Business Association (FBA), which supports, connects and advocates for family businesses across Australia and New Zealand. Connect with James H Stewart LinkedIn: James H Stewart Instagram: @whatilearnedinbusiness YouTube: What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me) If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, leave a review and share the episode with your network. Disclaimer The views, opinions and experiences expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or any affiliated organisations. This podcast is intended for general information and educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, legal, investment, taxation or other professional advice. Listeners should seek independent professional advice relevant to their own circumstances before making any business or investment decisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Born and raised on a dairy farm near Shepparton and the first person in her extended family to attend university, Wendy built a remarkable 32-year career with Accenture that took her from regional Victoria to leadership roles across Asia, New York and the global technology consulting sector. Following her executive career, Wendy became one of Australia's most respected Non-Executive Directors, serving on the boards of organisations including Coles, Commonwealth Bank, Blackmores, Altium, Melbourne Business School and most recently PwC Australia. She also has a long association with Fitted For Work, the NFP supporting women in the workplace. In this wide-ranging conversation, Wendy shares lessons from the boardroom and beyond, including: Her journey from country Victoria to global leadership. Building and leading large technology businesses across multiple countries. The hardest leadership lessons she learned during periods of organisational change. Governance under pressure and how boards respond when public scrutiny intensifies. The evolving relationship between shareholders, regulators and community expectations. The realities of CEO succession planning and why it remains one of the most important responsibilities of any board. The growing impact of artificial intelligence and technology disruption on corporate strategy. Why culture, relationships and authenticity remain critical ingredients for long-term business success. The challenges facing not-for-profit organisations and the importance of creating sustainable operating models. Wendy brings a rare combination of technology expertise, governance experience and practical leadership wisdom. Whether you're a director, executive, business owner, investor or aspiring leader, there are valuable lessons throughout this conversation. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with your network. Connect with James Stewart: LinkedIn: James H Stewart GAICD Instagram: @whatilearnedinbusiness YouTube: What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!) Website: www.jameshstewart.com Disclaimer The views expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host, associated organisations, employers, clients or affiliates. This podcast is intended for general information and entertainment purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, legal, tax, investment or professional advice. Listeners should obtain their own independent professional advice before making any decisions based on matters discussed in this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
If we are the "lucky country", why does life feel hard for so many of us? Saul Eslake is one of Australia's most respected independent economists and his conversation with James H Stewart cuts through the political noise and examines the true state of Australia's finances. Drawing on decades of experience advising governments, financial institutions and businesses, Saul provides a candid assessment of Australia's economic performance over the past quarter century and discusses the major challenges that will shape the nation's future. Together they explore: • How Australia's economy compares with global peers including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and New Zealand • Whether Australians are genuinely better off today than they were 20–25 years ago • The country's productivity challenge and why meaningful economic reform has become increasingly difficult • The role of minority parties and the Senate in shaping Australia's policy agenda • The impact of global geopolitical tensions, tariffs and changing international trade relationships • The 2026 Federal Budget and whether it is a genuine reform agenda or simply a revenue-raising exercise • Housing affordability, negative gearing, capital gains tax and discretionary trust reforms • Victoria's growing debt burden and whether the state is facing a long-term fiscal challenge This is a wide-ranging conversation about economics, government policy, productivity, living standards and the choices Australia will need to make if it wants to remain prosperous in the decades ahead. Whether you're a business owner, investor, director, executive, student or simply someone trying to understand where Australia is heading, this episode provides valuable insight into one of the most important conversations facing the nation. CONNECT WITH JAMES STEWART LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/ Instagram: whatilearnedinbusiness YouTube: What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!) If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, subscribe and share it with your network. DISCLAIMER The views expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or any affiliated organisations. This podcast is intended for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, taxation, legal, investment or professional advice. Listeners should obtain independent professional advice relevant to their own circumstances before making any financial, business or investment decisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Online success is more than just a great platform, service or product. Brand development, storytelling and communication sit front and centre of why customers will engage with you. This means understanding the power of language. In this episode I sit down with Bernadette Schwerdt — entrepreneur, best selling author, founder of the Australian School of Copywriting, and host of the podcast So You Want to Be a Copywriter . Bernadette has spent decades helping businesses and individuals communicate in a way that drives real commercial outcomes. But in today’s environment — shaped by artificial intelligence, shifting business models, and the explosion of digital content — the stakes around communication, storytelling, and intellectual property have never been higher. We discuss Bernadette’s latest book, The Secrets of Online Success , and the key lessons for anyone looking to build a business in today’s digital economy. We also cover a wide range of other topics including: Bernadette’s journey from South Australia into acting, public speaking, authorship and entrepreneurship Building and scaling the Australian School of Copywriting What actually makes online businesses successful — and why many fail The commercial value of clear communication and why so many businesses get it wrong Lessons from entrepreneurs and authors she has worked with, including through her ghostwriting work The role of storytelling in building brands and influencing customers Common mistakes leaders make when presenting and communicating The impact of artificial intelligence on copywriting, content creation, and business models Where human creativity and judgement still matter in an AI-driven world This is a conversation about far more than writing — it’s about how businesses create value, communicate it effectively, and adapt in a rapidly changing world. ⚠️ Disclaimer The information, views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and are provided for general information purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal or professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. You should seek appropriate professional advice tailored to your individual circumstances before making any decisions. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information discussed, no representation or warranty is given as to its completeness or reliability. 🔗 Connect with the show For more episodes, updates and enquiries: Website: https://jameshstewart.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIlearnedinbusiness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Coopers Brewery is one of Australia's oldest family businesses and most famous brewers. In this episode James H Stewart sits down with Andrew Cooper, Executive Director of Coopers Brewery. Founded in Adelaide in 1862, Coopers Brewery has survived wars, recessions, industry disruption, changing consumer preferences, and even a hostile takeover attempt. But this conversation is about far more than beer. Andrew shares his journey from investment banking and global consumer brands into the family business, why Coopers requires family members to earn their stripes outside the company before joining, and how the business approaches governance, succession planning and leadership development across multiple generations. James and Andrew explore: • The remarkable history and evolution of Coopers Brewery • Why family members must gain external experience before joining the business • Succession planning in a sixth-generation family enterprise • The appointment of Coopers' first non-family Managing Director • What makes naturally conditioned ale unique • Vertical integration, brewing operations and supply chain strategy • Consumer trends, moderation and the growth of low and no-alcohol products • Brand portfolio management and innovation in a changing market • Technology, automation and AI in modern brewing operations • Coopers' expansion into whisky production • The new Regency Park visitor experience, restaurant and tap room This episode also provides a fascinating insight into how a family business can remain true to its heritage while continuing to innovate and evolve in a rapidly changing market. Whether you're involved in a family business, interested in succession planning, or simply curious about how iconic Australian brands endure, this conversation is packed with practical lessons and insights. What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!) is hosted by James Stewart. Connect with James: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9 Instagram: @whatilearnedinbusiness YouTube: What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!) Disclaimer: The views, opinions and experiences shared by guests on this podcast are their own and are provided for general information and entertainment purposes only. They do not constitute financial, investment, legal, taxation, business or professional advice. Listeners should obtain independent professional advice appropriate to their own circumstances before making any decision or taking any action based on the content of this podcast. While reasonable care is taken in producing this content, no representation or warranty is made regarding the accuracy, completeness or currency of the information discussed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What happens when business and government policy intersect? What happens when the institutions that underpin our democracy, economy and social cohesion come under pressure? What happens to leaders when moral clarity is lost? James Stewart sits down with Jennifer Westacott AC — one of the most influential leaders in Australian public and business life. From growing up in public housing, in a home marked by hardship, violence and instability… to becoming one of the most powerful voices in Australian business, government and the education sector, Jennifer’s story is one of resilience, courage and an unwavering commitment to fairness, dignity and opportunity. Over a remarkable career Jennifer has served at the highest levels of public life — from leading major government departments in housing, education, planning and infrastructure… to building KPMG’s sustainability and government advisory practice… to spending 13 years as Chief Executive of the Business Council of Australia , where she became the public face of corporate Australia during some of the most turbulent economic and social challenges of our time. Today, Jennifer is Chancellor of Western Sydney University , Chair of the Bradfield Development Authority , a Director of Wesfarmers , and a leading voice on social cohesion, education and the future of Australian institutions. In this candid conversation, Jennifer shares: How growing up in public housing shaped her lifelong commitment to fairness and equity What she learned running one of the most politically sensitive portfolios in NSW The biggest policy battles and hardest lessons from 13 years leading the BCA Why weak productivity, falling living standards and social fragmentation pose major risks to Australia’s future Her views on business, government, housing affordability and the future of education. Why she believes leaders must act with moral clarity and consistency when institutions are tested Her deeply personal reflections on social cohesion and antisemitism This is a conversation about power, purpose, courage and what values-driven leadership looks like when the stakes are highest. If you lead people… advise boards… build businesses… shape policy… or simply care about the future of Australia — this episode is essential listening. Disclaimer This podcast is intended for general information, education and discussion purposes only. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or any affiliated organisations. Nothing in this podcast constitutes financial, legal, investment, political, or professional advice. Listeners should obtain independent advice relevant to their own circumstances. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Have you ever wanted to be part of a Social Enterprise? What about building a business that does good for the community - at scale? Kim McDonnell — founder of Thankful, Thankful4Farmers, and Saveful, and winner of the 2025 Women in Digital Champion of Change Award, has done just that (and more)! Kim shares her remarkable journey from growing up in the remote mining town of Mount Isa, in outback QLD to building and selling a successful digital marketing agency, before making the bold decision to walk away from corporate success, sell literally everything she and her family owned and dedicate her life to solving some of the world’s biggest social and environmental challenges. We unpack: The moment Kim realised commercial success alone wasn’t enough to fulfill her Why she sold everything to pursue a social enterprise mission The founding story behind Thankful and the science of gratitude Moving her family to New York City to pursue global impact Speaking at the United Nations during General Assembly week The creation of Thankful4Farmers with celebrity chef Matt Moran Why food waste is one of the world’s biggest hidden environmental problems How Saveful is using technology and behavioural psychology to help families save money and reduce waste The realities of startup life, resilience, capital raising, and purpose-driven leadership This is a powerful conversation about courage, values, behavioural change, and building businesses that aim to leave the world better than they found it. 🎧 Connect with the Show Follow What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) on your favourite podcast platform. Connect with James Stewart on LinkedIn for more insights on leadership, governance, restructuring, entrepreneurship and business transformation. Instagram: @whatilearnedinbusiness YouTube: What I Learned in Business YouTube Channel Website: James H Stewart ⚠️ Disclaimer This podcast is intended for general informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not constitute financial, legal, investment, environmental, or professional advice. Listeners should obtain independent advice relevant to their own circumstances before making any decisions based on the content of this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How a Holocaust survival story shaped a family legacy and inspired a serial retail investor to keep striving for success. In this deeply personal discussion, James H Stewart sits down with retailer, investor, former lawyer and long-time friend, Tom Krulis for a conversation that goes far beyond business. Tom opens up about his family’s extraordinary journey, including the posthumous publication of his father Steven’s book, The Boy with the Suitcase , the enduring legacy of growing up as the son of a Holocaust survivor, and how those experiences shaped his values, leadership style, and appetite for risk. James and Tom reflect on their shared experiences travelling through Rwanda , exploring one of the most remarkable national turnarounds of modern times following the Rwandan Genocide , and then rise of antisemitism in Australia what business leaders can learn from resilience, reconciliation, and rebuilding. From there, the conversation shifts to Tom’s remarkable business career—from leaving law at Freehills , to helping drive the success of Godfreys Group through multiple ownership cycles, becoming an early investor in Petstock before its billion-dollar transaction with Woolworths Group , and navigating the recent collapse of value retailer, Cheap as Chips . This is a conversation about: Legacy, family and values The lived experience of modern antisemitism in Australia Building, scaling and exiting retail businesses Private equity, public markets and investor discipline Why some businesses survive… and others don’t A raw, honest and deeply human conversation with a man who has seen both extraordinary success… and the reality of loss. ⚠️ Disclaimer This podcast is intended for general information, education and discussion purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences and recollections expressed by the host and guest are their own at the time of recording and do not necessarily reflect the views of any current or former employers, investee companies, portfolio companies, shareholders, directors, employees, advisers, governments, regulators, or other stakeholders. This episode may include discussion of historical events, personal experiences, commercial transactions, business successes and failures, industry trends, legal and regulatory matters, and current social issues. Any references to companies, transactions, valuations, ownership structures, restructurings, administrations, market conditions, or investment outcomes are based on publicly available information, personal recollection, or opinion, and should not be relied upon as financial, legal, investment, tax, governance, or other professional advice.Where specific individuals, businesses, transactions or events are discussed—including current or former businesses—listeners should be aware that circumstances may have changed since the time of recording, and not all perspectives or stakeholders may be represented. Listeners should conduct their own independent enquiries and seek appropriate professional advice before making any business, investment, legal, governance or personal decisions arising from matters discussed in this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Banking Royal Commission was the reset needed for the Australian banking industry and demanded by the community. Sally Bruce's first hand experience at Macquarie Bank, National Australia Bank, AMP bank, gave her a unique insight into some of Australia's largest financial institutions, the important role than they play in the community and what can go wrong when the institution gets in its own way. From rural Queensland, Sally is a straight shooter who calls it as she sees it and gives a unique insight into some of the more turbulent times in Australian banking. Her career pivot to technology scale up, Culture Amp, reframed her thinking around business and opened her eyes into a world of global technology and workplace culture. Sal is also a dedicated believer in the power of social impact, both personally and in business, and has been involved in community organisations for decades, including opening her home to refugees from around the globe. Over a career spanning more than three decades, Sally: Ran her first P&L at just 21 years of age Led major corporate workouts and restructurings Helped transform Australia’s mortgage landscape Served as CEO during the turmoil of the Banking Royal Commission Pivoted from traditional banking into global technology leadership Sat on boards spanning banking, the arts, and women’s leadership Opened her family home to skilled refugees rebuilding their lives in Australia In this candid and deeply personal conversation, Sally shares: How growing up in rural Queensland shaped her leadership philosophy What Macquarie Bank taught her about performance under pressure How customer-first thinking transformed mortgage banking at National Australia Bank Her unfiltered reflections on the Australian Banking Royal Commission What she learned moving from old-economy banking to high-growth tech at Culture Amp Why she believes social mobility, education and opportunity matter more than ever This is a conversation about ambition, reinvention, resilience, humility — and what truly matters when the titles no longer define you. Disclaimer This podcast is intended for general information, education and entertainment purposes only. The views, opinions and recollections expressed by the host and guest are their own, based on personal experience and publicly available information at the time of recording, and do not necessarily reflect the views of any past or present employer, board, shareholder, government agency, regulator, client or affiliated organisation. Nothing discussed in this episode constitutes financial, investment, banking, legal, tax, governance, employment or other professional advice. Listeners should obtain independent professional advice before acting on any information discussed. This episode may include discussion of historical events, organisations, regulatory processes, personal experiences and leadership decisions which are discussed in good faith for educational and commentary purposes. Any references to third parties are made on the basis of publicly available information or personal recollection and should not be taken as findings of fact or criticism of any individual or organisation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A former F18 fighter pilot, a former leader of the Australian aerobatic flying team the Roulettes, a Senior Advisor to the Australian Defence industry and someone who literally jumps off tall building (or cliffs) in a single bound. That's what you get when you chat with Peter Robinson. In this high-impact episode, James Stewart sits down with Peter Robinson, CEO of NWE Strategic to discuss the current and future state of Australia's Defence capability. Peter is a former leader of KPMG's Defence practice and has operated at the sharp end of aviation, leadership and strategic risk — and now advises organisations across defence, logistics, mining and energy. This conversation moves from the cockpit to the boardroom… and from Batwing jumps to billion-dollar defence decisions. In this episode: Peter’s journey into the RAAF and life as a fighter pilot Leading the Roulettes and managing risk in high-performance environments Why he took up Base Jumping in a Bat Suit Whether Australia is spending enough on defence Are we getting value for money from defence budgets? Does Defence have a bureaucracy or systems problem? Has the dual leadership model inside Defence worked? Why AUKUS matters — and whether it is worth the cost How warfare is changing through drones, missiles and low-cost technology Where Australia may be most exposed if conflict came sooner than expected What leaders in business can learn from military decision-making under pressure This is a fascinating discussion about preparedness, leadership, execution risk and what large systems must do when the stakes are high. Connect: Website: jameshstewart.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational and entertainment purposes only. Views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or any organisation mentioned. Nothing in this episode constitutes financial, investment, legal, defence, political, strategic or other professional advice. Discussion of defence capability, geopolitics and public policy includes opinion, interpretation and forward-looking commentary which may change over time. Listeners should undertake their own independent research and seek appropriate professional advice before acting on any matters discussed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Harvey Weinstein and Brittany Higgins have one thing in common. They were at the heart of a movement to reform workplace safety and workplace culture and right at the centre of that process, was Kate Jenkins AO, one of Australia’s most prominent voices on workplace safety, sexual discrimination and culture. Kate is the former Sex Discrimination Commissioner at the Australian Human Rights Commission and has led some of the most significant reviews and inquiries in Australia, including the landmark Respect@Work report into workplace sexual harassment, the independent review into culture inside Federal Parliament, and major cultural reviews across sport, government and business. Kate was also the Commissioner of the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission and is currently the Chair of the Australian, Sports Commission, Chair of Creative Workplaces Australia and President of the Australian Red Cross among other roles. This conversation goes beyond headlines and policy settings, to explore what really happens inside organisations when systems fail, power is misused, and people do not feel safe to speak up. James and Kate discuss: • Why culture failures are rarely sudden — they often develop gradually over time • The warning signs boards and executives frequently miss • Why complaint systems can fail the people they are designed to protect • The challenge of balancing performance, fairness and accountability • What meaningful reform looks like after crisis or misconduct • Lessons from reviews across Parliament, sport and major institutions • Why workplace culture should be treated as a core governance and business risk Kate also reflects on the human stories behind her work and what leaders can do to create safer, stronger and more respectful workplaces. An essential episode for directors, executives, founders, HR leaders and anyone responsible for leading people. Follow the show for more conversations with leaders who have learned through challenge, crisis and experience. Website: https://jameshstewart.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9 Important Disclaimer: This podcast is provided strictly for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, regulatory, governance, employment, HR, financial or professional advice of any kind, and must not be relied upon as a substitute for obtaining advice specific to your circumstances. The views, opinions and recollections expressed by guests are their own, based on their personal experiences at the time of recording, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or any organisation past or present. References to individuals, institutions, events or reforms are general in nature and may be incomplete or subject to change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Australian residential housing market is unaffordable for many. It is being impacted by a perfect storm of a supply demand imbalance, rising construction costs, a fuel crisis, and a planning system which many argue needs wholesale reform. To hear more, I sit down with Angus Raine , Executive Chairman of Raine & Horne — one of Australia’s oldest and most enduring family businesses to get his perspective on Australia's housing crisis and what it takes to build a sustainable, intergenerational family business. Founded in 1883 and now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Raine & Horne has navigated more than a century of market cycles — from booms and busts to wars and recessions — and today operates at scale across Australia and international markets. In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore both the evolution of a multi-generational family enterprise and the realities of Australia’s housing market . We cover: The 140-year journey of Raine & Horne and how succession has been successfully managed across generations. How to avoid ego, groupthink and capability gaps in family businesses. The current state of Australia’s residential property market. The housing affordability crisis — and the key drivers behind it, from supply constraints to migration, tax settings and construction costs. Major planning reforms, including recent high-density development changes in Victoria. The rise of institutional capital and the build-to-rent sector. How technology, data and AI are reshaping the real estate agency model. The concept of regional "rentvesting" and how that may make property ownership accessible to a generation of Australians. This episode is proudly brought to you by the Family Business Association in Australia and New Zealand. Whether you’re an investor, business leader, or part of a family enterprise, this is a practical and insightful discussion on markets, leadership and long-term thinking. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal or professional advice. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host. You should seek appropriate professional advice before making any financial or investment decisions. Connect with me: Website: https://jameshstewart.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Geopolitics now sits at the centre of business decision-making. My guest is Dr Merriden Varrall , one of Australia’s leading geopolitical analysts and China specialists, and the founder and CEO of Vantage Geopol. Merriden brings a rare combination of academic depth, policy experience, and commercial advisory insight. She has spent nearly a decade living and working in China, held senior roles with the United Nations Development Programme in Beijing, led the East Asia Program at the Lowy Institute, and now advises boards and executives on how global political shifts impact strategy, risk, and long-term investment decisions. In this conversation, we explore: How China actually sees the world — and why Western analysis often gets it wrong The evolution of geopolitics from a fringe issue to a top-three boardroom risk The impact of leadership and political disruption on global stability The fragmentation of the global economic order and the growing importance of energy, climate policy, and critical minerals Practical advice for business leaders navigating geopolitical uncertainty This is a deep and timely discussion on one of the most important forces shaping the global economy — and what it means for decision-makers today. 🔗 Connect with James LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9 Website: https://jameshstewart.com ⚠️ Disclaimer The information, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guest and are provided for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, investment, or other professional advice. This podcast is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, decision-making in relation to any investment, business, or strategic matter. Listeners should seek appropriate professional advice tailored to their individual circumstances. While reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, no representation or warranty is made as to its completeness or reliability, and no liability is accepted for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What happens when one of the UK’s largest companies collapses—and takes trust in the entire UK audit profession with it? In this episode, I sit down with Mark Raddan , CEO of Interpath Advisory and former KPMG UK Senior Partner and Board member, to unpack the fallout from the Carillion collapse and how it fundamentally reshaped the UK turnaround and restructuring profession. Carillion employed more than 40,000 people and delivered critical public infrastructure across the UK. But in 2018, it collapsed under the weight of debt, aggressive accounting, and failing contracts—triggering parliamentary inquiries, regulatory backlash, and record fines for KPMG. What followed wasn’t just the failure of a company—it was a structural reset of the entire profession in the UK. Regulators moved to address conflicts of interest within the Big Four, ultimately forcing KPMG to sell its restructuring business. That carve-out became Interpath Advisory —a new, independent firm backed by private equity and now operating as one of the large independent global turnaround and restructuring firms. Mark was at the centre of that transition. In this conversation, we cover: The Carillion collapse and the consequences that followed. The impact on KPMG UK and the wider profession Why the Big Four were forced to rethink their business models The creation and rapid growth of Interpath Advisory How private equity is reshaping the professional services model The future of restructuring, advisory, and the impact of AI This is a rare, insider perspective on how crisis, regulation and capital combined to create an entirely new competitive landscape in global advisory. ⚠️ Disclaimer This podcast is for information and general discussion purposes only . The views expressed by guests are their own and do not constitute financial, legal, investment or professional advice. Nothing in this episode should be relied upon as a recommendation or advice to make any business, financial or investment decision. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content is based on publicly available information and personal perspectives, which may be incomplete or subject to change. Listeners should seek their own independent professional advice before acting on any matters discussed. 🔗 Connect with James Follow the podcast for more conversations on business, leadership, crisis and recovery. Connect with me on LinkedIn: 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9 or at my website: 👉 https://jameshstewart.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What is customer loyalty — really? Is it points? Discounts? Retention metrics? Or is it something deeper? In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) , I sit down with Adam Posner , founder of The Point of Loyalty, host of the What’s the Point of Loyalty? podcast, and author of For Love or Money™ — one of Australia’s longest-running loyalty research studies, spanning nearly two decades and 18 editions. But before Adam became a loyalty strategist, his life gave him a very different education. Growing up in Johannesburg during apartheid, living through conscription into national service, surviving a terrorist car bomb explosion, and emigrating to Australia to start again from scratch — Adam’s worldview was shaped long before he ever designed a loyalty program. From walking the streets delivering scratch-and-save cards into letterboxes, to building a direct marketing agency and ultimately pivoting into customer research and loyalty strategy, Adam has spent nearly 20 years asking a deceptively simple question: What actually makes customers stay? In this conversation, we explore: Why loyalty is about Behaviour, Belief and Belonging The importance of retail response when the customer experience disappoints loyalty Why customer loyalty and trust are closely connected Why the world needs a “Pandemic of Joy” — and what Adam calls Joyalty How AI and agentic technology may redefine brand–customer relationships This episode is a masterclass in what Adam calls “the finance of feelings” — the commercial power of emotion in a data-driven world. If you lead a brand, manage customer strategy, sit on a board, or simply care about how businesses build trust — this one is for you. Disclaimer The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individual guest and host and do not constitute financial, legal, investment, marketing or professional advice. This podcast is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Any discussion of brands, loyalty programs, corporate events or data breaches reflects publicly available information and personal opinion at the time of recording. Listeners should conduct their own independent enquiries and seek appropriate professional advice before making any commercial or strategic decisions. This episode is not a promotional platform and no endorsement of any organisation or product is intended or implied. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Everyone talks about sustainable retail products and saving the planet, but who really cares? Retailers? Customers? Government? The global retail sourcing & supply chain is invisible to most consumers, yet it is one of the most complex, highly integrated and culturally nuanced business ecosystems in the world. James H Stewart sits down with Anne-Laure Descours , one of the world’s most senior and respected leaders in global sourcing and sustainable manufacturing in the footwear and apparel industry. Anne-Laure spent more than three decades in the engine room of global retail — living and working across China, Vietnam, Bangladesh and Hong Kong — and ultimately serving as Chief Sourcing Officer of PUMA , overseeing the manufacturing and supply-chain operations that power an €8+ billion global brand. Before PUMA, she held senior leadership roles at Li & Fung , the legendary Hong Kong-based sourcing powerhouse that helped shape modern global manufacturing. Since leaving PUMA in 2025, Anne-Laure has continued her work in responsible supply chains, joining the board of Gildan Activewear (owner of American Apparel) and serving as an advisor and board member to Haelixa , a Swiss innovator in DNA-based traceability solutions for fashion and textiles. In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore: What global supply chains actually look like behind the scenes The realities of sustainable sourcing across Asia Cultural intelligence and leadership under pressure The role of government and regulation in driving changes to sourcing models and sustainability reporting Why end of life products are the biggest unsolved hurdle for sustainable manufacturing - and this goes to the heart of consumer demand. How DNA tracing is reshaping sourcing transparency What three decades in high-stakes global operations teaches you about resilience and trust This is a rare, inside-the-system perspective from someone who has led through crisis, transformation and geopolitical disruption — at scale. 🔎 Connect James H Stewart is a former KPMG restructuring partner and Australian Board member who interviews global leaders about the hard lessons they’ve learned in business — and survived. Connect with James: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameshstewart/ Website: https://jameshstewart.com ⚠️ Disclaimer This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of their past or present employers, affiliated organisations, or the host. Nothing discussed in this episode constitutes financial, investment, legal, regulatory or professional advice. Listeners should seek appropriate independent advice before making any commercial or investment decisions. All commentary is based on publicly available information and personal experience at the time of recording. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
