223 Birgit Schnelle – Certified EOS Implementer – Entrepreneurial Coach – EOS Worldwide by Richard Triggs

In this episode of the Arete Executive Podcast, I sit down with Andrew Rodgers, Chief Executive Officer of CST Hire, Chair and Non-Executive Director. With more than two decades of leadership experience across resources, manufacturing, infrastructure, and professional services, Andrew shares the lessons from a career defined by reinvention, curiosity, and cultural leadership. Andrew discusses his journey from aspiring engineer to CFO and then CEO, spanning industries from energy and mining to law and logistics. He reflects on the mindset shift required to transition from technical leadership into people-centred leadership, and why emotional intelligence and culture are now central to how he builds teams. We explore the reality of balancing executive and board responsibilities, the discipline it takes to maintain governance boundaries, and how sitting on boards in different industries has sharpened his business acumen as a CEO. Andrew also talks about his current work at CST Hire — Australia’s leading truck and specialist vehicle rental business — where he’s driving diversification into renewables, rail, and infrastructure, while embedding innovation such as AI-powered fleet management and customer service automation. The conversation is rich with practical insights for leaders about staying curious, walking the floor, and creating cultures of accountability and engagement. Andrew’s reflections on learning, adaptability, and longevity offer valuable guidance for any executive considering their own evolution from C-suite to boardroom. Key Timestamps 2:00 – Overview of CST Hire and its national operations 5:00 – Balancing CEO and board roles effectively 8:00 – From engineer to CFO to CEO: lessons in reinvention 12:15 – Developing soft skills and emotional intelligence in leadership 17:00 – Building board experience and applying cross-industry learning 19:00 – Listed vs private company dynamics and leadership differences 22:30 – Culture, visibility, and leading from the floor 24:00 – Behaviour, accountability, and building team engagement 28:00 – CST’s diversification strategy and use of AI technology 34:00 – The appeal and reality of portfolio careers 36:00 – Life outside work: family, surf, and being a proud grandfather

In this episode of the Arete Executive Podcast, I sit down with Damien van Brunschot — Director of EvolveResolve, host of The Resolution Room podcast, leadership coach and trainer, and former Managing Partner with 29 years of legal experience. Damien shares his journey from decades in commercial litigation and governance through to his transition into mediation, conflict resolution, and leadership coaching. We explore how his experience as a Managing Partner shaped his perspective on dispute resolution and why he now champions proactive mediation as a pathway to stronger workplaces and healthier leadership. In the second half of the conversation, Damien dives into the psychology of conflict — how leaders can defuse tension, reframe disputes as opportunities, and build cultures where difficult conversations drive connection rather than division. This episode is rich with practical wisdom for executives navigating both boardroom decisions and workplace dynamics. Key Timestamps 2:00 – Damien’s 29-year career in law and leadership, and why he pivoted into mediation and coaching. 6:15 – The roots of EvolveResolve and the mission to transform how organisations approach disputes. 10:40 – Common mistakes leaders make in conflict situations — and how to avoid them. 15:30 – Why unresolved disputes erode culture, productivity, and trust. 21:50 – The role of mediation in turning workplace friction into collaboration. 28:10 – Insights from hosting The Resolution Room podcast and conversations with leaders. 34:30 – Leadership lessons from managing a law firm and guiding teams through pressure. 40:45 – Coaching leaders to embrace vulnerability and courage in conflict. 47:20 – Building organisations where disagreement becomes a catalyst for growth and innovation.

In this episode of the Arete Executive Podcast, I sit down with Tim Dwyer, business growth strategist and founder of Tolemy, to explore how leaders can create clarity, alignment, and activation across their organisations. Tim shares the journey from his early vision in 2008 to develop a “Google Maps for business” through to the creation of the Tolemy Map and his recently published book. We unpack how Tolemy helps leadership teams chart their direction, align their decision-making, and leverage the collective genius of their people. In the second half of the conversation, Tim shifts gears to talk about the importance of slowing down to speed up, taking time to reinvent your business, and nurturing health, relationships, and brand. This episode blends practical strategy with deep leadership reflection — a must-listen for any executive looking to lead with clarity and purpose. Key Timestamps 1:15 – Tim’s original 2008 vision to build a “Google Maps for business” and remove the stress from growth. 4:00 – The inspiration behind the Tolemy name and why navigation is a powerful metaphor for strategy. 6:45 – How the Tolemy Map aligns leadership teams around direction and decision-making. 9:30 – Turning the map into a reference manual for businesses — setting direction, aligning teams, activating plans. 13:20 – The cost of disconnection between leadership teams and how Tolemy closes the gap. 20:40 – Leveraging the “genius” of every person in the business for maximum growth. 34:50 – The danger of accelerating faster and faster — why leaders must create space for relationships. 37:30 – “Slowing down to speed up” — reconnecting with health, business fundamentals, and people. 42:10 – Tim on the current “reinvention window” and why now is the time to reimagine business. 46:00 – Practical ways to build a less frantic, more connected, more intentional organisation.

In this episode of the Arete Executive Podcast, I speak with Dr Zena Burgess FAICD FAPS, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Psychological Society, about her leadership journey across psychology, governance, and health reform. Zena shares how she scaled APS into a digitally enabled organisation with influence at state and federal levels, while also balancing a diverse board portfolio that includes Diabetes Australia, Bully Zero, and a psychedelic start-up. We discuss the importance of advocacy, how to navigate ambiguity as a leader, and why coaching, networks and patience are essential for long-term success. Zena also reflects on gender barriers she overcame early in her career, the role of vulnerability in leadership, and why aligning heart and mind is the key to effective profit-for-purpose organisations. Key Timestamps 00:20 – CEO role at APS: representing 26,000 psychologists, influencing government, and transforming the organisation’s digital capability. 02:33 – Board portfolio: Diabetes Australia, Bully Zero, and psychedelic start-up work in PTSD and pain. 06:26 – Early life: convent school, father a judge/hostage negotiator; learning resilience through debate and gender barriers. 10:44 – First CEO role at the College of GPs: stepping up when her CEO retired; focus on enabling teams. 12:59 – Preparing for leadership: continuous learning through Harvard, Columbia, INSEAD, and working with business coaches. 15:24 – Proud RACGP achievements: resolving 25-year GP training issue, influencing government policy, advancing mental health reforms. 23:31 – APS transformation: raising external profile, digitisation, and stronger student/emerging leader engagement. 26:29 – Advocacy philosophy: patience, persistence, and aligning ideas with others to achieve change. 28:09 – Best career advice: “learn the grey,” embrace uncertainty, tolerate imperfection, and learn to say no. 35:08 – Diabetes Australia as a model: blending lived experience with commercial discipline; why it’s rare and effective.

In this episode of the Arete Executive Podcast, I speak with Vincent Berry, Director at Sajen Legal, about how business owners and executives can better protect their organisations from legal risk. Vincent shares his journey from young lawyer to firm director, why commercial litigation and insolvency are such critical areas right now, and how business leaders can mitigate risks with the right contracts, due diligence, and proactive legal strategies. We explore post-COVID legal trends, including the rise in insolvencies, shareholder disputes, and compliance pressures from the ATO. Vincent also explains why many executives underestimate the importance of contract terms, how failing to act quickly can cost millions, and why prevention is far cheaper than cure. From supplier contracts to shareholder agreements and employment restraints, this conversation is a practical masterclass in protecting what you’ve built before problems arise. Key Timestamps 1:12 – Vincent introduces Sajen Legal and its focus on commercial litigation and insolvency. 2:28 – Asset protection and structuring to safeguard clients if things go wrong. 6:19 – Post-COVID legal trends: ATO pressure, insolvencies, and shareholder disputes. 10:09 – Why contracts matter more than ever and the dangers of DIY terms (Google, ChatGPT). 15:57 – Evidence tips: don’t send emotional emails, assume you’re being recorded. 20:27 – Shareholder disputes, strategy, and why early legal advice is critical. 22:00 – Common mistakes: waiting too long, losing rights to secure assets. 28:00 – Employment law risks: intellectual property and restraints of trade. 31:41 – Vincent’s key advice: don’t expect courts to guarantee fairness—act early. 33:38 – Personal reflections: running his own firm, growth plans, and becoming a new father.

In this episode, I sit down with Kylie Sprott to explore her journey from senior executive roles into a true portfolio career that blends board directorships, consulting, mentoring, writing, and public speaking. Central to this transition is her latest venture, Sprott Methods—a leadership platform developed over three years that combines global collaborations, masterclasses, interviews, and practical resources for business leaders. Kylie explains how the platform is designed to cut through “noise” and provide digestible, real-world advice for leaders, while also celebrating insights from diverse leaders across industries. Kylie reflects on her philosophy of leadership, drawing on her 25 years in executive roles. She emphasises curiosity, humility, and breadth of knowledge as essential traits for modern leaders, qualities she likens to “unicorn leaders.” We also explore her perspectives on risk management, strategy, and how fictional characters like Ted Lasso can inspire leadership lessons. Kylie shares her approach to board service, explaining how she positions her skills within board matrices, and how she balances advertised opportunities with those found through the hidden job market. Timestamps 2:15 - The launch of Sprott Methods and its global collaborations 5:36 - Cutting through the noise: practical leadership education 7:39 - Risk registers and real-world business resilience 9:00 - The “business unicorn” metaphor and what makes great leaders 12:01 - Lessons from Top Gun and Ted Lasso applied to leadership 15:05 - The “malaise of mediocrity” and striving for improvement 20:05 - Building board capability and defining a skills matrix 23:21 - Hidden job market vs advertised board opportunities 26:02 - Differentiating coaching, mentoring, and advisory roles 30:00 - Public speaking and lessons from vulnerability

In this episode, I sit down with Ashton Bishop, CEO of Step Change, to talk all things marketing, such as why so much of it fails, and how challenger businesses can cut through the noise without outspending their competition. We trace Ashton’s journey from co-creating 'R U OK? Day' to building a consultancy that helps companies, from small trades businesses to ASX-listed giants, unlock real growth. We unpack why too many organisations chase short-term tactics without a strategy, why distinctiveness beats differentiation, and how understanding behavioural economics can transform cut-through and conversion. We also explore practical tools like the “Value Visualiser” that can triple proposal conversions, why B2B buying decisions are still emotional at their core, and how AI, when used wisely, can deliver meaningful wins rather than just “garbage at the speed of light.” TIME STAMPS: 02:59 – What Step Change does and growth stories from $2M to $1B 06:08 – Ashton’s backstory: from R U OK? Day to launching Step Change during the GFC 12:51 – Why most businesses fail at marketing despite more channels and data 14:50 – The “four Ps” approach vs. ad-first tactics; the RAM framework (Result, Audience, Message) 17:38 – The “rocket from a canoe” analogy and the need for long-term, consistent marketing 20:43 – AI in marketing – opportunities and risks 23:36 – B2B vs. B2C: emotional decision-making and why the shortlist matters 32:18 – Real-world example: how a Value Visualiser tripled conversion rates 36:22 – Behavioural economics and distinctiveness: cutting through in crowded markets

In this episode, I’m joined once again by Dr Gavriel "Gav" Schneider — CEO, author, strategic risk expert, and one of Australia’s foremost thinkers on how to navigate uncertainty and unlock human potential. We dive deep into his latest book, 'Presilience: How to Navigate Risk, Embrace Opportunity and Build Resilience', exploring why most organisations still view risk too narrowly, and how reframing it as a strategic enabler can lift both performance and resilience. We talk about the post-COVID productivity slump, the challenge of leading five generations in the workforce, and why Australia’s risk-averse culture is holding back innovation. Gav shares the core skills every leader needs to thrive in a world of low certainty and limited control, and how his Presilience framework has transformed not only his own $45M business but also the outcomes of clients across sectors. This conversation is packed with practical insights, from rethinking work-from-home policies based on human behaviour, to leading through disruption without burning out, to positioning your organisation for the opportunities emerging from generative AI. If you’re a leader, board member, or aspiring high performer, this is essential listening.

In this episode, Richard Triggs interviews long-time colleague Darren Finkelstein on how accountability drives performance, reduces overwhelm, and creates real behavioural change in teams and individuals. They reflect on Darren’s pivot from Apple executive to boating entrepreneur to becoming a sought-after accountability coach. The discussion highlights how leaders can model accountability, why frequent check-ins outperform annual reviews, and how Darren’s “seven steps to success” framework can increase goal achievement by up to 95%. They also explore themes from Darren’s latest book, NO: Building a Life of Choice Without Obligation, and why learning to say no is central to personal and professional effectiveness. 01:30 – Darren’s career pivot from Apple to boating to accountability coaching 08:00 – Accountability vs. responsibility: what’s the real difference? 13:45 – Why most leaders fail to create true accountability in their organisations 24:00 – Darren’s 7-step framework to increase goal achievement to 95% 32:30 – How to say “no” without guilt: insights from Darren’s book NO 36:45 – The impact of overwhelm and how to beat it with micro steps 41:00 – Tools, coaching options, and Darren’s free accountability scorecard 45:05 – Richard reflects on his own experience working with Darren

In this episode of the Arete Podcast, I speak with Trudy MacDonald, founder of Talent Code HR and a former CEO of three organisations, with a background in organisational psychology. Trudy shares powerful insights into the post-pandemic leadership landscape and what it takes to build high-performance teams in today’s evolving world of work. We explore the shift toward more empathetic leadership, the emerging challenge of balancing empathy with accountability, and why too much flexibility can sometimes erode performance cultures. Trudy discusses practical frameworks for instilling accountability without losing connection, the importance of redefining employer branding, and how expectations around pay and remote work have transformed. We also touch on the role of AI in shaping the future of leadership and performance, and close with a personal look at what fuels Trudy’s drive, her early mornings, rowing, and a commitment to staying ahead of the curve. TIME STAMPS: 01:55 – Trudy’s background in organisational psychology and founding Talent Code HR 06:12 – The permanent shift to hybrid work and leadership adaptation 08:31 – Too much empathy, not enough accountability: finding the balance 12:40 – Cultural consequences of over-accommodating employees 17:20 – Systems and leadership behaviours that drive accountability 21:30 – Making accountability a team sport with transparency and trust 25:45 – Why good is no longer good enough: defining “great” performance 29:40 – Building an EVP: why people join, stay, or leave your business 35:20 – Why money has become the top motivator post-pandemic 42:18 – Creating a safe, high-performance environment that retains top talent

In this episode of the Arete Podcast, I have the pleasure of speaking with Andrew Griffiths, a renowned author and speaker. Andrew reflects on our 11-year friendship and shares his journey from buying a dive shop at 17 to becoming an international sales manager and eventually a prolific author with 14 books published. We delve into the importance of creating a strong personal brand, especially for executives, and the role of authenticity in writing and speaking. We discuss leveraging tools like chat GPT and the significance of mentorship and continually learning from others to build and maintain your personal brand. Andrew's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to make their mark professionally and personally. Useful Links: Andrew Griffiths' website: www.andrewgriffiths.com.au Andrew Griffiths on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/griffithsandrew Richard Triggs LinkedIn: au.linkedin.com/in/richardtriggs Arete Executive website: www.areteexecutive.com.au

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jake Swinglehurst, the CEO of Lucas' Papaw Remedies. Jake, who has been sporting his iconic mustache for seven years, shares the fascinating history of Lucas' Papaw Remedies, a family-owned business founded by Dr. Lucas in 1910. Jake discusses the legacy carried on through six generations, the challenges and milestones faced by the business, and its organic growth through endorsements by celebrities like Jennifer Hawkins and Miranda Kerr. Jake also talks about his personal journey, stepping into various roles within the company, and the vision for the future, including potential new products and international expansion. This conversation provides an insightful look into the dedication, heritage, and future aspirations of a company deeply rooted in its Australian origins. Useful Links: Lucas' Papaw Remedies Website - https://lucaspapaw.com.au/ Jake Swinglehurst on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-swinglehurst-61b9551a4/ Richard Triggs on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardtriggs/

In this episode, I reconnect with my long-time friend and mentor Rex Urwin, who joins me on the Arete Podcast. Rex shares his journey from coaching to mentoring, emphasising the transformative potential within each individual. We discuss the significance of mentorship, the evolution of personal growth, and the role of ancient wisdoms and practices such as breathwork and hermetic principles in contemporary self-improvement. We also delve into the societal trends impacting self-identity and success, and the challenges of keeping grounded in an increasingly materialistic world. As always, it’s a pleasure to explore these profound topics with Rex and to reflect on our nearly four-decade friendship and collaboration. Useful Links: Mind Matters website: https://mindmattrz.org/ Rex Urwin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rexurwin/ Richard Triggs LinkedIn: au.linkedin.com/in/richardtriggs Arete Executive website: www.areteexecutive.com.au

In this episode, I sit down with Mark, the Managing Director of Bennett + Bennett. We discuss his experiences growing up in Brisbane, his journey in the land surveying industry, and his rise through the ranks at Bennett and Bennett. Mark shares insights on the company’s history, their involvement in major projects like Snowy Hydro and Gold Coast Light Rail, and the importance they place on wellness and leadership programs. He also opens up about the personal transitions that accompanied his professional growth and his future vision for the company amidst the exciting backdrop of the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympics. Useful Links: Bennett + Bennett website: https://bennettandbennett.com.au/ Mark Billsborough on LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/mark-billsborough-gaicd-836a334a Richard Triggs LinkedIn: au.linkedin.com/in/richardtriggs Arete Executive website: www.areteexecutive.com.au

In this episode of the Arete Podcast, I welcome Nick Symonds, the director of MAS, a Brisbane-based architecture studio specialising in hotels, resorts, and multi-residential projects. Nick shares insights into his company's focus, the transition from an established firm to starting his own business during COVID, and the strategic decisions that paved the way for MAS's growth. He also touches on his early life, the influence of his upbringing, and his creative interests. The conversation highlights the importance of team culture, adaptability, and strategic planning in running a successful architecture firm. Nick also talks about his personal pursuits, including building his own house and future travel plans to Europe. Useful Links: MAS - Architectural Studio website: https://www.mas.com.au/ Nick Symonds on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-symonds-82414631/ Richard Triggs LinkedIn: au.linkedin.com/in/richardtriggs Arete Executive website: www.areteexecutive.com.au

Growing any business takes skill, but growing one through strategic acquisitions takes a special kind of skill. It’s a skill that comes naturally to Matthew Dowd, CEO of Perth-based Keystone Training Group. Matthew joined me on the Arete Podcast, sharing details of the journey the growing Registered Training Organisation (RTO) has had so far. Keystone Training Group currently has three distinct subsidiaries, with head offices in Perth and Sydney, and more to come. Matthew also shared some of his personal professional journey, which kicked off as an engineer in the mining sector, and gradually transitioned into his current entrepreneurial model, drawing on the expertise of others through strategic shareholding partnerships, judicious acquisitions, and oversight by an independent and experienced board chair. Useful Links Keystone Training Group - https://ktg-training.com.au/ Matthew Dowd on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-dowd-98582326/ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardtriggs/ Richard Triggs on LinkedIn

205 - Darren Godwell - Chief Executive Officer - i2i Global by Richard Triggs

204 - David Smith - Chair & CEO - Ceres Tag Ltd by Richard Triggs

The sky's the limit when it comes to aerospace, and ASX-listed Quickstep taking that literally. I spoke with Mark Burgess, MD and CEO, about the stellar growth the company has had in recent years, growing from a staff of 12 to 265 just on one manufacturing site alone. The company has diversified from being primarily focused on the international military market and now includes commercial transport, including sophisticated commercial drones. We discussed the hard recruitment and employment decisions Mark had to make to turn the company around when he took the helm some six years ago. It was a fascinating interview that will leave you in no doubt that Australia is at the leading edge of this important industry. Useful Links Mark Burgess on LInkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-burgess-43238b49/ Quickstep Website: www.quickstep.com.au/ Richard Triggs LinkedIn: au.linkedin.com/in/richardtriggs Arete Executive website: www.areteexecutive.com.au Richard's book on Amazon: areteexecutive.com.au/free-book/