In this episode, my last for 2024, I’m excited to welcome Matthew King—Managing Director of URPS, a nationally recognised urban planning consultancy. From dreaming of shaping cities as a teenager to leading a business with a growing national footprint, Matthew’s journey is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the power of adaptation.
Recognised as one of InDaily’s 40 Under 40, Matthew shares how he balances professional success with personal fulfilment, redefining leadership along the way. He opens up about outworking his competition early on, pushing through limits to learn, and why looking forward—not back—is the key to lasting influence.
I’m excited for you to hear Matthew’s story—a journey of hard work, thoughtful leadership, and the drive to make a difference.
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me.
🔗 Visit our website www.highpod.au
This episode is a bit of a pinch me moment. Not to diminish the success or greatness of my guests to-date but it goes without saying that speaking with someone like 4 time logie award winner and international performing arts talent Hugh Sheridan is a monumental achievement for this podcast and an opportunity I’m eternally grateful for.
Hugh is one of Australia’s most versatile performers. Many of you will know Hugh from his iconic role as Ben Rafter on Packed to the Rafters as well as from Hugh’s incredible performances in House Husbands, Five Bedrooms, and on stage with shows like Hair and Hughman.
What makes this chat special is the intersection of Hugh’s professional success and South Australian roots. Born and bred in Adelaide, Hugh returns to his hometown for the 80th anniversary of Carols by Candlelight.
From the stages of Adelaide to global audiences. Hugh’s story is one of passion, perseverance and a deep love for performance and family.
I’m excited for you to hear Hugh’s reflections!
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me. Visit our website www.highpod.au
In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dino and Michelle Mennillo—business and life partners who have built one of South Australia’s most unique and impactful occupational therapy practices, the OTFC Group. They’ve spent over 20 years not only growing a successful business but navigating the challenges of working side by side, raising a family, and staying connected through thick and thin.
Dino’s background as a former professional soccer player and Michelle’s dedication to leadership have shaped their approach to therapy and teamwork in remarkable ways. Together, they bring honesty, resilience, and humour to their journey—qualities that shine through in their story of balancing love, family, and purpose.
I’m excited for you to hear Dino and Michelle’s story—a journey of vulnerability, ambition, and genuine connection.
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me.
🔗Visit our website www.highpod.au
In this episode, I speak with Steve Testar, a name synonymous with connecting South Australia's vibrant business community. As the driving force behind Showcase SA, Steve has built a platform that celebrates local talent, fosters meaningful connections, and supports small businesses across the state. A former property professional, Steve pivoted into a space where he could channel his passion for South Australian businesses, using Showcase SA to elevate and spotlight those making an impact in their fields.
Steve’s dedication to building community extends beyond business. He’s been recognised as the City of Adelaide Citizen of the Year, a testament to his contributions, especially during challenging times. His commitment to positive change, whether through business connections or charity work, is truly inspiring.
I’m excited for you to hear Steve’s story—from his journey as an entrepreneur to his role as a community connector and advocate.
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me.
🔗 Visit our website www.highpod.au
In this episode, I dive deep into the incredible journey of Glynn Nicholas, a celebrated actor, comedian and mime artist who carved his path from busking in Europe to leading stage productions and beyond. Glynn opens up about his passions for creating authentic human connections through theatre, his early struggles as an introverted performer and the pivotal moments that shape his career.
We touch on everything from his time on Here’s Humphrey to the profound impact of theatre and musical productions like his new almost Eurovision show. This conversation is a fascinating exploration of resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling. Join me as Glynn shares the wisdom he's gained along the way and reflects on the importance of self-belief, human connection, and leaving a lasting legacy in the arts.
I loved chatting with Glynn because of his honestly and big hearted approach to life and his work. I’m privileged to have had the opportunity to share his story and hope you love it too.
Enjoy!
🔗 Visit our website: www.highpod.au
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me!
In this episode I sit with Donny Walford who’s journey is one of breaking barriers and challenging the status quo. As the Founder and Managing Director of Behind Closed Doors, Donny has spent over three decades championing gender diversity in leadership roles. Her career began in banking, where she quickly became a trailblazer—often one of the only women in senior management at a time when it was rare to see women in leadership positions. Despite encountering resistance and scepticism, she relentlessly proved her capabilities, ultimately reshaping expectations for women in business.
Donny’s desire to support others led her to establish Behind Closed Doors, a national membership organisation that provides a safe and empowering environment for women to build confidence, share experiences, and receive mentorship. Through her guidance, countless women have overcome imposter syndrome, achieved professional success, and felt validated in their roles. With a focus on integrity, authenticity, and the belief that self-validation is key to long-term success, Donny has become an influential figure for many aspiring women leaders.
I loved chatting with Donny and learning from her perspective and approach to life and business. I’m privileged to have had the opportunity to share her story in this way.
Enjoy!
🔗 Visit our website: www.highpod.au
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me!
In this episode, I chat with Eloise Hall, co-founder of Taboo Period Products and an inspiring young entrepreneur who is making waves in the fight against period poverty. Eloise, along with her co-founder Izzy, founded Taboo straight out of high school, driven by a deep desire to create positive social change. Today, Taboo is a recognised social enterprise that champions menstrual health education and provides sustainable, environmentally friendly period products, while also addressing the significant issue of period poverty in Australia.
Eloise's story is one of passion, resilience, and vision. From her early inspirations drawn from social enterprise models, to the launch of Taboo’s innovative 'Pad it Forward' program, Eloise has consistently pushed the boundaries of what young entrepreneurs can achieve. We delve into her journey, including her experiences balancing university studies with building a purpose-driven business, and her ongoing efforts to challenge societal stigmas around menstruation.
In this episode, you'll discover the power of using business for social good, and hear Eloise's thoughts on the importance of connection, community, and maintaining balance in the often-hectic life of an entrepreneur. I can't wait for you to hear her incredible insights.
Enjoy!
🔗 Visit our website: www.highpod.au
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me.
In this episode, I speak with Richard Turner, The Essential Entrepreneur. That’s the title of Richard’s book and latest project, and from my point of view at least, the perfect description of what he is.
Richard is a true powerhouse in the world of entrepreneurship. Known for his innovative mindset and ability to disrupt industries, Richard has built a career spanning over 40 years, leading the way in market transformation and sustainable business practices. He’s best recognised as the founder of ZEN Energy, a renewable energy company that played a pivotal role in reshaping Australia's energy landscape.
But that’s not all—Richard has successfully founded four companies across various industries, making him a key figure in Australian entrepreneurship. His latest venture, The Essential Entrepreneur, is a must-read for anyone looking to start, scale, or sell a business.
Richard has always been about creating value beyond profit—his focus has been on building businesses that contribute to both the community and the environment. I can’t wait for you to dive into his remarkable journey and insights today.
Enjoy!
Visit our website: www.highpod.au
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me.
About Brett Burton: Brett Burton, known affectionately as "Birdman" for his high-flying marks, is a significant figure in Australian Rules football. He played for the Adelaide Crows from 1999 to 2010, with 177 games and 264 goals. Post-retirement, Brett transitioned into high-performance roles, including as president of the AFL Players Association and head of football at the Adelaide Crows. Currently, he is the Wellbeing Director at Aleda, focusing on leadership and wellbeing programs.
In this Episode, Discover:
⭐ The journey from a country childhood in Whyalla to AFL stardom.
⭐ Overcoming significant injuries and the mindset shifts required.
⭐ The transition from professional athlete to high performance roles.
⭐ Insights on resilience, purpose, and self-leadership.
⭐ The importance of family, self-care, and meditation in maintaining balance.
Memorable Quotes:
💎 "Every challenge and adversity provides an opportunity to learn and grow."
💎 "We're here to serve others and help them live their best life."
Tune in to learn from Brett Burton’s inspiring journey and insights into performance, resilience, and wellbeing.
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me.
🎧 Listen now on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
🔗 Visit our website: www.highpod.au
About Dr. Jane Lomax-Smith: Dr. Jane Lomax-Smith AM, current Lord Mayor of Adelaide, has an extensive career in public service, academia, and medicine. Born in London, she obtained her degrees in Human Anatomy and Medicine. After moving to Australia in 1984, she earned a PhD from the University of Adelaide. She served as the State Member of Adelaide, holding several ministerial portfolios. Dr. Lomax-Smith has also served two terms as Lord Mayor of Adelaide and holds significant positions on various committees and boards.
In this Episode, Discover:
⭐ The influence of Dr. Lomax-Smith’s childhood on her career and values.
⭐ Insights into her unique educational journey and career transitions.
⭐ Her perspective on the challenges facing today's youth.
⭐ The importance of calm and composure in public life.
⭐ How she balances perfectionism with the need for progress.
Memorable Quotes:
💎 "We are here by chance, but if we’re going to spend our time usefully, we have to be useful."
💎 "You have to remain calm in a crisis. If you don’t, the whole environment falls apart."
Tune in to hear Dr. Jane Lomax-Smith's inspiring story and gain valuable insights that can help you on your journey to success.
Thank you for coming on this
adventure with me.
Listen now on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
Visit our website: www.highpod.au
Join me on the latest episode of "How I Got Here" (HIGH) as I sit down with Theo Maras - a visionary property developer and philanthropist whose contributions have significantly shaped Adelaide's landscape.
𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐬
Theo Maras is a prominent figure in Australia's business community. Born in Ikaria, Greece, in 1948, he migrated to Australia in 1952. From humble beginnings, Theo built an empire, notably transforming Adelaide's East End and chairing the Adelaide Central Market Authority. He is the founder and chairman of Maras Group and a founding member of the Foundation for Hellenic Studies. Theo's service to the community and the property sector earned him membership in the Order of Australia.
𝐈𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞, 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 - How Theo's early lessons in resilience and hard work shaped his successful career.
𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 - The significance of the East End redevelopment and Theo's role in creating a mixed-use zone that balances residential, retail, and entertainment spaces.
𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐜 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 - Theo's involvement with Common Ground and his dedication to providing housing for the homeless in Adelaide.
𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 - Insights into Theo's Greek heritage and the values from Ikaria that influence his approach to business and community.
𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 - Theo's thoughts on enabling the next generation to thrive and his vision for continued development in Adelaide and beyond.
𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬
"If you want to achieve anything, you have to work hard at it."
"Don't be afraid to mix it a little bit, but make sure you're doing it for the right reason."
"Helping homeless people was the greatest thing. The reward is in giving them dignity and a home."
Tune in to hear Theo's inspiring story and gain valuable insights that can help you on your journey to success.
𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐞𝐛𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞 - www.highpod.au
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐦𝐞.
At the intersection of innovation, leadership, and community impact stands Martin Haese, the former Lord Mayor of Adelaide and current special envoy to Singapore and Southeast Asia. Martin is a visionary leader who combines strategic foresight and empathy to drive growth and prosperity for South Australia.
In this episode, we explore how Martin's resilience and innovative mindset have propelled him from early life challenges to high-profile civic leadership roles, all while maintaining a strong commitment to lifelong learning and community service.
As an advocate for sustainable development and economic opportunities, Martin doesn't just lead; he contributes to transformation. His candid reflections on balancing the demands of public service, business, and family life offer a compelling glimpse into the sacrifices and rewards of his journey.
Tune in to hear the story of a leader whose unwavering commitment to South Australia's growth and sustainability not only benefits the state but also enriches communities.
By the end, you’ll see Martin not just as a successful leader but as a dedicated advocate for progress, shaping the world through innovation, investment, and collaboration.
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me.
Stay up to date with this podcast, my life and businesses, and more: https://linktr.ee/jordanplatis
At the heart of financial wellness and ethical business practices stands Tammy Barton, the visionary founder of MyBudget. Tammy is a trailblazer in personal budgeting services, who combines empathy and expertise to transform lives and foster financial stability across Australia.
In this episode, we explore how Tammy's resilience and innovative mindset have driven her from a bustling, challenging childhood to becoming a national leader in financial health, all while maintaining a dynamic, family-oriented lifestyle.
As an advocate for financial empowerment, Tammy doesn't just manage finances; she revolutionises them, alleviating stress and providing peace of mind to her clients. Her candid reflections on balancing the demands of business and family life offer a compelling glimpse into the sacrifices and rewards of her journey.
Tune in to hear the story of a woman whose unwavering commitment to improving financial health not only benefits individuals but also enriches communities. By the end, you’ll see Tammy not just as a successful entrepreneur but as a dedicated mother and a community champion, shaping the world one budget at a time.
Thankyou for coming on this adventure with me.
Stay up to date with this podcast, my life and businesses, and more: https://linktr.ee/jordanplatis
At the crossroads of business, resilience, and leadership, you'll find Nikki Govan thriving. Nikki is a driving force in South Australia's business scene, adeptly balancing her roles across hospitality, industry boards, and entrepreneurial ventures.
This episode delves into how Nikki's strategic acumen and community focus have led her from managing the Star of Greece to chairing major organisations, all while nurturing a supportive and balanced home life.
Championing teamwork and collaboration, Nikki builds strong teams and positive cultures, from her restaurant staff to her boardroom colleagues. Her candid reflections on juggling these diverse roles, alongside raising her daughter, offer a raw and honest insight into the sacrifices and triumphs of a working mother.
Tune in to uncover the journey of a leader whose commitment to Adelaide's growth enriches both the local community and the wider world. By the end of the episode, you'll see that Nikki is much more than just a businesswoman; she's a connector, a motivator, and a true influencer in her community.
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me.
Stay up to date with this podcast, my life in and out of business, and more:
https://linktr.ee/jordanplatis
Dive into the captivating narrative of Glenn Cooper AM, a quintessential South Australian whose life story is a testament to family, perseverance, and the spirit of giving back. Born into the legendary brewing family Coopers, Glenn's journey from an automotive electrician to the steward of Coopers Brewery is nothing short of remarkable. This podcast episode peels back the layers of Glenn's life, revealing the challenges and triumphs of maintaining a family legacy while navigating personal and professional growth. Through candid conversations, listeners will be drawn into the humorous and heartfelt moments that define Glenn, from his early days of uncertainty about the brewery's future to his pivotal role in its ascension and his tireless work in philanthropy and community service. Experience the warmth, wisdom, and wit of a man who has not only contributed immensely to South Australia's cultural landscape but has also inspired countless others with his resilience and commitment to family values. Join me as I explore a story that will inspire, entertain, and resonate with anyone who believes in the power of heritage, hard work, and the importance of leaving a lasting impact.
Thankyou for coming on this adventure with me.
Stay up to date with this podcast, my life and businesses, and more:
Craig's story is a fascinating tapestry of architecture, music, travel, and a bold leap into property development that secured his freedom. From his suburban beginnings to sharing stages with iconic bands and navigating the tumultuous world of business, Craig's journey is a compelling narrative of courage, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Through tales of economic booms, crashes, and the critical importance of human connections, Craig offers invaluable insights into controlling one's destiny and the beauty of a life well-lived. His story not only inspires but serves as a masterclass in navigating life's unpredictable currents, making it a must-listen for anyone dreaming of carving their own path. Thank you for coming on this adventure with me. Stay up to date with this podcast, my life and businesses, and more: https://linktr.ee/jordanplatis
Today, Dino is one part of a very harmonious whole. That whole is his relationship with his wife Sara which itself is a symbol of and blueprint for the unique culture within their business Das Studio.
Dino's journey is filled with heart breaking trauma, sliding door moments, and eye-opening successes, bound together by love, support, and camaraderie.
Come walk in Dino's shoes and hear the spell binding tale of a man on a mission who wouldn't be where he is today without the unique mix of family, friends, and colleagues who believe in his shared visions of success and better on every level, within everything they seek to improve.
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me. Stay up to date with this podcast, my life and businesses, and more: https://linktr.ee/jordanplatis
In this introductory episode to How I Got Here, you're taken on a brief journey discussing why I'm creating this podcast, my belief that most (if not all) pivotal moments in our lives are linked to people, relationships, and the decisions we make under their influence, and what you can expect from How I Got Here.
How I Got Here exists to inspire and empower people to challenge themselves to achieve their goals.
My mission is to help normalise the struggles many of us face by using the power of storytelling, so you can develop a toolkit to grow in your own way.
Let's walk a mile in the shoes of our guests exploring how they got to where they are today, how they found success, what they would have done differently, if they have regrets, their life in and out of business, their relationship with failure, and more.
Thank you for coming on this adventure with me. Stay up to date with this podcast, my life and businesses, and more: https://linktr.ee/jordanplatis
