Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 37 (Part Two)  Guest: Bianca Tarrant, Co-FounderBusiness Name: Our CowWebsite: https://www.ourcow.com.auLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bianca-tarrant-a73b2519b/   Topics Covered: / Building Knowledge and a C-Suite Team from the Ground Up Bianca shares how Our Cow grew by surrounding themselves with skilled mentors, industry experts, and a hand-picked leadership team—despite her and Dave's lack of formal business backgrounds. Their approach: hire people better than you and grow into your leadership role.   / Leading with Culture and Self-Development As the business scaled, Bianca and Dave learned the importance of personal growth and letting go of control. They focused on improving workplace culture, empowering staff, and showing up as the best versions of themselves.   / The Power of Storytelling and Marketing Through Authenticity Our Cow’s success was largely driven by grassroots, video-first storytelling on social media. Bianca discusses how transparency, daily farm life, and staying relatable helped build trust with a city-based customer base—and how they inspired other farmers to do the same.   / Evolving Strategy While Staying Customer-Focused Bianca details how their early desire to serve everyone led to strategic shifts: refining product range, raising prices, and attracting a customer base that values quality and ethics over price. Knowing their customer became key to sustainable growth.   / Navigating Industry Perception and Carving a Niche Initially met with skepticism, Our Cow earned the respect of the wider agriculture industry by proving their value as a complementary market—not competition. Bianca reflects on their position as industry advocates and change agents.   / What’s Next for Our Cow With national reach and processing in place, Our Cow is focusing on growing its subscriber base, staying true to its meat-first model, and exploring future retail and international expansion opportunities.   / Women in Agriculture: Breaking Barriers Bianca speaks candidly about being a young female leader in a male-dominated industry. She shares the challenges of gaining respect, the crucial role of female leaders in Our Cow’s success, and her mission to model inclusive leadership.   / Lessons in Resilience, Delegation, and Asking Bold Questions From staffing to scale, Bianca shares valuable takeaways—including how asking the right questions led to major breakthroughs (like nearly securing a $10M investor), and why letting go of operations enabled true leadership.   / The Role of Team, Culture and Motivation Bianca explains how a strong, unified team in Casino has powered their success. Through hiring for attitude, promoting from within, and building a culture of autonomy and trust, they’ve created an A-team that fuels growth and morale.   / Introducing Their New Podcast: Paddock Talk Bianca announces their new podcast aimed at telling more farmer stories and connecting even deeper with their community.   References: Our Cow – https://www.ourcow.com.au Paddock Talk Podcast – Available via Our Cow's social platforms

Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 37 (Part Two)  Guest: Bianca Tarrant, Co-FounderBusiness Name: Our CowWebsite: https://www.ourcow.com.auLinkedIn: https:// linkedin.com/in/bianca-tarrant-a73b2519b/    Topics Covered: / Building Knowledge and a C-Suite Team from the Ground Up Bianca shares how Our Cow grew by surrounding themselves with skilled mentors, industry experts, and a hand-picked leadership team – despite her and Dave's lack of formal business backgrounds. Their approach: hire people better than you and grow into your leadership role.   / Leading with Culture and Self-Development As the business scaled, Bianca and Dave learned the importance of personal growth and letting go of control. They focused on improving workplace culture, empowering staff, and showing up as the best versions of themselves.   / The Power of Storytelling and Marketing Through Authenticity Our Cow’s success was largely driven by grassroots, video-first storytelling on social media. Bianca discusses how transparency, daily farm life, and staying relatable helped build trust with a city-based customer base – and how they inspired other farmers to do the same.   / Evolving Strategy While Staying Customer-Focused Bianca details how their early desire to serve everyone led to strategic shifts: refining product range, raising prices, and attracting a customer base that values quality and ethics over price. Knowing their customer became key to sustainable growth.   / Navigating Industry Perception and Carving a Niche Initially met with skepticism, Our Cow earned the respect of the wider agriculture industry by proving their value as a complementary market—not competition. Bianca reflects on their position as industry advocates and change agents.   / What’s Next for Our Cow With national reach and processing in place, Our Cow is focusing on growing its subscriber base, staying true to its meat-first model, and exploring future retail and international expansion opportunities.   / Women in Agriculture: Breaking Barriers Bianca speaks candidly about being a young female leader in a male-dominated industry. She shares the challenges of gaining respect, the crucial role of female leaders in Our Cow’s success, and her mission to model inclusive leadership.   / Lessons in Resilience, Delegation, and Asking Bold Questions From staffing to scale, Bianca shares valuable takeaways – including how asking the right questions led to major breakthroughs (like nearly securing a $10M investor), and why letting go of operations enabled true leadership.   / The Role of Team, Culture and Motivation Bianca explains how a strong, unified team in Casino has powered their success. Through hiring for attitude, promoting from within, and building a culture of autonomy and trust, they’ve created an A-team that fuels growth and morale.   / Introducing Their New Podcast: Paddock Talk Bianca announces their new podcast aimed at telling more farmer stories and connecting even deeper with their community.   References: Our Cow – https://www.ourcow.com.au Paddock Talk Podcast – Available via Our Cow's social platforms

Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 36Guests: Scott & Sam McLarty, FoundersBusiness Name: Connecting FuturesWebsite: https://connectingfutures.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-mclarty2/    Topics Covered: / Youth Employment Through a Neurodiverse Lens Scott and Sam McLarty share how Connecting Futures helps young neurodiverse people (ages 15–25) transition into meaningful employment. Drawing from their own lived experience, they explain how adapting the environment – not the individual – enables long-term success. / Building an Inclusive, Award-Winning Culture The pair reflect on winning the Diverse and Inclusive Workplace category at the Bendigo Business Excellence Awards. Their focus on staff engagement, trust-building and shared purpose has created a team culture that empowers both workers and participants. / Expanding Through Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) Connecting Futures has been selected to deliver the Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) program across several regional areas including Bendigo, Maryborough, Castlemaine, Echuca, Shepparton and the Sunshine Coast. This expands their reach beyond NDIS to include people with a disability, injury, or health condition. / A Personal Mission Rooted in Lived Experience As parents of neurodivergent children, Scott and Sam bring empathy and deep understanding to their work. They describe their journey from navigating the school system to creating a service that now supports over 70 young people each week through mentoring and team-based projects. / Transformational Participant Journeys The episode features powerful success stories, including: Henry, who went from struggling to secure interviews to becoming a permanent V/Line employee and purchasing his first home at 22. Sammy, who built confidence, moved out of home, and started an IT career at Coliban Water after completing cybersecurity studies. / Partnering With Industry to Drive Inclusion Scott and Sam outline how they collaborate with businesses to create neurodiverse-friendly workplaces. This includes training, sensory spaces and leveraging government funding to support onboarding and workplace adjustments. / Demystifying the NDIS System for Families They discuss the complexity of the NDIS and the importance of empowering families and young people to understand and manage their own plans. Practical tools like the NDIS app and informed advocacy play a key role in increasing self-determination. / Sustainable Business With Purpose From their early days as a one-person NDIS support service, Connecting Futures has grown through clear values, participant-first design and a deep commitment to leaving a lasting legacy in communities across Victoria and Queensland.   References: Connecting Futures – https://connectingfutures.com.au Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA) – https://www.jobaccess.gov.au NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) – https://www.ndis.gov.au V/Line – https://www.vline.com.au Coliban Water – https://www.coliban.com.au Bendigo TAFE – Construction Pathways – https://www.bendigotafe.edu.au

Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 35Guest: Julian Perez, Regional Development ManagerBusiness Name: Villawood PropertiesWebsite: https://villawoodproperties.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-perez-70084076/    Topics Covered: / Community-Centric Property DevelopmentJulian Perez outlines how Villawood Properties distinguishes itself by embedding community values at the heart of its residential developments. He explains how creating meaningful spaces – like parks, clubhouses and communal facilities – helps build stronger, connected communities.   / The Role of Regional ExpansionThe episode dives into Villawood's regional strategy, particularly in Bendigo and other Victorian towns. Julian emphasises the benefits and responsibilities of developing in regional Australia and how these areas are crucial to housing supply and long-term sustainability.   / Urban Planning with a Human LensJulian reflects on the importance of good urban planning. The conversation explores how smart planning, design and layout significantly influence liveability, mental health and social interaction in growing communities.   / Affordability and Accessibility in HousingA key challenge discussed is housing affordability. Julian shares Villawood's initiatives aimed at ensuring housing remains accessible to a wider demographic, including first-home buyers, while balancing rising development costs.   / Sustainability and Innovation in DevelopmentThe conversation touches on Villawood’s commitment to sustainability, including environmental considerations, building standards and the integration of green infrastructure into housing estates.   / Career Journey and Passion for Community BuildingJulian shares insights into his career path – from construction to strategic regional development and what motivates him to create spaces that truly impact lives beyond the physical homes themselves.   References: Villawood Properties – https://villawoodproperties.com.au Regional development and planning in Victoria - https://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/ Housing affordability trends in Australia - https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-welfare/housing-affordability 

Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 34Guest: Chris HarringtonBusiness Name: StrategemWebsite: https://www.strategem.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-harrington-1a95a8103   Topics Covered / What is Strategem? A 90-Year Legacy with a Modern TwistChris shares the origins of Strategem, a financial services business founded in 1932. He explains how the business evolved from a traditional accounting firm to a two-division structure offering both accounting and investment services under one roof. / The Dual Engine: Accounting and Investment ServicesStrategem operates with two licensed arms – business services (tax, accounting) and investment services (financial planning, superannuation, aged care). Chris outlines how these operate independently but are strategically integrated for client benefit. / Flexible Work Models and 9-to-3 ShiftsTo attract and retain great talent, Strategem has embraced flexibility – including 9-to-3 roles, part-time contracts, and remote work. Chris talks about how these structures help employees stay engaged while meeting client demands. / Building Careers, Not Just JobsChris discusses the firm’s approach to staff development – encouraging team members to define their own career goals, and providing growth paths through mentorship, training, and hands-on learning opportunities. / From Shoebox to Strategy: Evolution in Client ServicesThe business has seen dramatic changes – from manual ledger books to automated cloud accounting. But one thing remains: the role of the accountant as a trusted advisor. Chris unpacks how Strategem supports clients through all stages of life and business. / Generational Clients and Interlinked Financial JourneysStrategem has served multiple generations of families – offering cradle-to-retirement services. Chris shares how intergenerational wealth planning and aged care services are growing priorities for the firm. / Bendigo to Collins Street: A Regional Business with City ReachWhile proudly headquartered in Bendigo, Strategem has expanded with a Melbourne office and clients across Australia. Chris explains how a regional culture of personal service has become a point of difference in metropolitan markets. / The Strategem Community Foundation: Giving Back with ImpactChris shares the story of their community foundation, which provides annual grants, targeted donations, and supports local causes – from literacy programs to hospice equipment – while involving team members through volunteering. / Leadership Lessons: Sustainable Performance and Calm Under PressureManaging partner since 2010, Chris reflects on leading through stressful deadlines and complex workloads. He emphasises the importance of approachable leadership, emotional resilience and creating a culture of trust and accountability. / A Career Rooted in Business FamiliesGrowing up around small businesses, Chris always saw the behind-the-scenes pressures of entrepreneurship. That perspective informs his client relationships today – bringing empathy and practical advice to business owners.   References Strategem – https://www.strategem.com.au Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) – https://asic.gov.au Strategem Community Foundation – https://strategem.com.au/strategem-community-foundation-grant Riding for the Disabled - https://www.rda.org.au/ Reading Out of Poverty – https://roop.org.au 

Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 33Guest: Brent NolanBusiness Name: Blunt AgencyWebsite: https://www.bluntagency.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentnolan/     Topics Covered / What is Blunt Agency? A 3-Part Brand FrameworkBrent explains Blunt’s structure as a brand agency with three core services: brand strategy, implementation (design and content) and ongoing nurture. This integrated model helps clients build, launch and sustain strong brands over time. / The Power of Regional Perspective in BrandingOperating nationally from Bendigo, Brent shares how understanding regional and metro markets adds unique value to national clients. His team’s deep local knowledge helps brands better connect with varied Australian audiences. / Hiring and Culture in a Regional Creative BusinessBrent discusses the challenges and wins of building a design-led team in regional Victoria. He talks candidly about sourcing talent, integrating international hires and fostering long-term team loyalty and mentorship. / No Scarcity Mindset: Building a Community of CreativesRather than guarding market share, Brent embraces abundance. He encourages growth in the local creative ecosystem and maintains positive relationships with former team members – even those who become competitors. / Why Brand Strategy Comes Before DesignBrent reveals how a lack of strategy used to lead to guesswork in design. Today, Blunt begins every project with strategy, enabling better messaging, positioning and visual outcomes that align across the organisation. / Case Study: Reframing a Tech Product for GrowthA Singapore-based tech firm needed help simplifying their complex point-of-sale solution. Brent’s team helped translate technical value into customer-facing messaging, tailoring narratives for different stakeholders. / Discovering the Real Product: Solving the Right ProblemBrent shares how strategic workshops revealed that a client’s oil product wasn’t really about the oil – it was about solving inflammation. This repositioning opened up a much larger, health-conscious customer base. / From Design to Business TransformationBrand strategy at Blunt often unlocks deeper business insights. Brent describes how aligning internal teams under a unified brand story helps organizations reduce inefficiencies and create cultural clarity. / Who Should Invest in Brand Strategy?While big corporates benefit greatly from strategic branding, Brent explains how even startups and SMEs can gain long-term value from foundational brand work – if they are growth-oriented and market-driven. / Efficiency Through Clarity: Avoiding Wasted MarketingWithout brand clarity, businesses stall, delay campaigns, and waste time. Brent outlines how strong strategy creates marketing agility, faster execution, and a more confident path to growth.   References GJ Gardner Homes – https://www.gjgardner.com.au/ Cor Cordis – https://www.corcordis.com.au/ Bendigo Bank – https://www.bendigobank.com.au/ Emporium Creative Hub – https://www.emporiumcreativehub.com.au/ Afterpay – https://www.afterpay.com ChatGPT – https://chat.openai.com 

Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 32Guest: Anthony JenkinBusiness Name: Outlier StudioWebsite: https://outlierstudio.com.au  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-jenkin-6b553785/     Topics Covered / Scaling with Systems: How Anthony Runs Lean and EfficientAnthony shares how he builds capacity without growing his team by leveraging systems, automation, and AI. From templated digital proposals to automated inbox workflows, he shows how staying lean doesn’t mean limiting growth. / The 5-Minute Proposal: Using Go High Level to Save TimeAnthony walks through his proposal process, powered by Go High Level, that takes just 5–10 minutes from start to send. Digital signatures, auto-responses, and video walkthroughs make client onboarding fast, clear and scalable. / Building Client Trust Through TransparencyFrom outlining potential project delays to including realistic timelines in proposals, Anthony emphasises the importance of setting clear expectations early to avoid disappointment later especially in industries like town planning and design. / AI as a Business Partner: From Analysis to CopywritingAI has become integral to Outlier Studio’s workflows, generating performance reports, analysing data and even assisting with architectural design logic. Anthony shares how tools like ChatGPT are reducing consultancy costs and time overheads. / The Power of iOS + ClickUp: Running Better Meetings and TeamsAnthony has integrated the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS/iOS) into ClickUp for better team alignment and accountability. Weekly snapshots, scorecards and structured agendas keep everyone on track and help avoid bloated meeting times. / Financial Efficiency Over HeadcountInstead of growing headcount, Anthony focuses on reviewing expenses quarterly and streamlining operations. He explains how cutting "nice-to-haves" and improving productivity metrics have been critical for profitability and long-term sustainability. / Sustainability and Construction: Systemic Barriers to ChangeAnthony breaks down the misalignment between builders, banks and regulators that hampers sustainable construction. Alternative materials like hempcrete and modular builds face compliance and funding roadblocks, despite strong demand. / PanelHouse and FlexiHouse: Innovative Solutions for Modern BuildingAnthony discusses his new ventures: PanelHouse (flat-pack panel kits) and FlexiHouse (modular homes). These prefab systems offer faster construction, lower labor needs, and better insulation, perfect for addressing material and skill shortages. / The Modular Building Boom: Opportunity and FrictionAs more builders pivot to modular methods, Anthony explores the growing popularity of transportable homes. He explains why financing remains a barrier, despite government incentives and consumer demand for faster, healthier housing solutions. / Marketing, SEO, and The Outlier BrandAnthony credits much of Outlier’s growth to digital marketing fundamentals he learned early, SEO, podcasts, newsletters and giving away value freely. A rebrand and a focus on niche content helped attract aligned, high-quality clients.   References Go High Level – https://www.gohighlevel.com ClickUp – https://www.clickup.com EOS/iOS – https://www.eosworldwide.com ChatGPT – https://chat.openai.com Town Planning Australia – https://www.townplanning.com.au/  

Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 31Guest: Andrew Hamilton, FounderBusiness Name: EucaWebsite: euca.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewghamilton/    Topics Covered / Purpose-Driven Product Design for Regional TourismAndrew introduces Euca, a company specialising in architecturally designed, prefabricated eco-cabins tailored for regional tourism. The business focuses on enabling operators like wineries and agri-tourism ventures to offer high-quality accommodation without the typical construction complexities.   / Streamlined Development ProcessEuca offers pre-designed, customisable cabins that are fully engineered and compliance-ready. By centralising architecture, interior design, and compliance work, the company reduces barriers for clients—especially those wanting to start small and scale gradually.   / From Product to PlatformThe cabins are built in a modular factory in Geelong, leveraging efficiencies like material optimisation and reduced waste. Clients can configure their cabins online, similar to customising a car, aligning with their brand and site aesthetics.   / Regional Identity in DesignAndrew discusses creating an authentically Australian cabin design aesthetic, inspired by eucalyptus tones and local materials—steering away from imitating overseas trends like Scandinavian or American log cabin styles.   / Market Opportunity and ImpactHe highlights the mismatch between regional tourism demand (nearly half of accommodation dollars spent in regional Australia) and the lack of appropriate infrastructure. Euca fills this gap by offering scalable, premium, and compliant prefab cabins.   / Sustainable and Scalable ManufacturingDesign choices include using full panel sizes, minimising offcuts, and sourcing local materials. The factory-based model also allows faster deployment, avoids lengthy on-site builds, and ensures lower environmental and logistical costs.   / Andrew’s Diverse BackgroundAndrew’s journey spans product design, media, e-commerce, and property development. He blends creative and commercial skills, applying product thinking from tech and consumer goods to placemaking and prefab property.   / Placemaking and Value CreationThe episode also explores how Andrew's background in immersive environments and commercial property led to his understanding of customer experience and product-market fit in tourism accommodation.   References Euca – https://euca.au Pivot City Innovation District, Geelong - https://www.pivotcity.com.au/ Zaha Hadid / Hudson Yards Project – https://www.zaha-hadid.com/design/520-west-28th-street/  

Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 30Guest: Jenn DonovanBusiness Name: Social Media & Marketing AustraliaWebsite: https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-donovan/     Topics Covered / From Law to Retail to Marketing: Building a Rural Business EmpireJenn shares her journey from working in law to co-owning a kitchenware retail shop and eventually launching her own marketing consultancy. A late-night decision with a friend led to buying a store – where she quickly learned the value of listening to customers and adapting to market needs. / Born on the Border: Running a National Business from the FarmJenn operates her business from a farm near Mulwala, NSW, right on the state border. She talks about the pros and challenges of rural entrepreneurship – especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the infamous "red line" lockdown cut through her living room. / Launching Social Media & Marketing Australia: From Domain Name to BrandIn 2018, Jenn founded her business after finding the perfect domain name by chance. With a no-frills approach, she built a service-based brand focused on coaching, speaking, and empowering small businesses to take control of their marketing. / The Power of Speaking: How Keynotes Became Her Main BusinessSpeaking now forms the largest revenue stream for Jenn. She shares how she books paid speaking gigs across Australia, from chambers of commerce to major conferences – like a standout 20-minute keynote in Esperance that required multiple flights and a 3-hour drive. / Creating a Movement: Buy From a Bush Business and Spend With UsIn response to drought and economic downturn in 2019, Jenn launched a Facebook group that grew to nearly 400,000 members. The initiative helped inject over $11 million into rural businesses and eventually grew into a full-fledged marketplace, Spend With Us. / Strategic Collaboration: Turning Community into CompanyJenn partnered with another founder to launch “Spend With Us,” offering regional businesses a platform to sell online – even if they didn’t have a website. She later exited day-to-day operations to refocus on speaking, retaining a stake as an advisor and advocate. / Leveraging Government Contracts and Digital TrainingDuring the pandemic, Jenn saw an opportunity in government-funded business support. She created webinar packages and simplified the delivery for local councils – doing all the heavy lifting so they could say “yes” quickly. This created consistent income and long-term partnerships. / The Speaking Business Model: Outreach, Timing, and SystemsJenn breaks down how she fills her speaking calendar through direct outreach, cold pitching and follow-up systems. She shares how she balances paid and unpaid gigs and uses strategy to get her foot in the door with larger events. / Rebranding and Personal Brand ClarityJenn is now separating her personal brand from her business. While Social Media & Marketing Australia is being positioned as a scalable asset with conferences and products, Jen Donovan is emerging as a speaker, author, and marketing educator in her own right. / Podcasting as a Business EngineJenn’s podcast, Small Business Made Simple, has been running since 2018 and serves as a top-of-funnel tool. She finds that most clients have listened before reaching out—creating instant trust and warming leads before they book coaching or speaking. / Writing the Book: Small Town, Big ImpactJenn authored a book with 107 actionable marketing ideas specifically for rural businesses. It reflects her mission to show regional entrepreneurs that effective marketing doesn’t have to rely on big budgets or social media alone. / Lessons Learned: Mindset, Messaging, and Moving OnFrom overcoming self-doubt and tall poppy syndrome to recognising when to exit a venture, Jen shares candid lessons about leadership, mindset, and scaling a purpose-driven business in regional Australia.   References Social Media & Marketing

Remarkable Regional Businesses – Episode 29 Guest: Melanie ClarkBusiness Name: FabriqWebsite: https://fabriq.com.au/     Topics Covered / From Family Legacy to Fabriq: Rebuilding a Curtain Business Melanie shares the multigenerational story of her family’s curtain business, originally founded by her parents in 1995. She and her husband Justin officially took over in 2010, transforming it from “Reanne Curtains” into Fabriq—a vertically integrated, design-led business in Bendigo. / A Rebrand with Purpose: Identity, Quality, and Future-Proofing The transition to the name Fabriq, reflected a modern, design-forward ethos. With support from branding agency Studio Ink, the rebrand helped shift customer perception, create independence from the previous name, and lay the groundwork for future business scalability and potential sale. / From London Showrooms to Regional Style Melanie’s time living in London—and admiration for Designers Guild’s aesthetic—inspired her passion for textiles and interiors. This personal design vision continues to influence the style and curation of Fabriq’s offerings and customer experience. / Manufacturing In-House: A Regional Point of Difference Unlike most retailers, Fabriq manufactures its window furnishings in its own workroom, attached to the showroom. Customers can literally see where the product is made, fostering trust, quality control, and flexibility for custom work. / Surviving the Slump: Business Lessons from 2016 and 2024 Melanie reflects on two major downturns in the business: one in 2016 and another in early 2024. She shares how radio advertising, builder outreach, and doubling down on local networking helped them bounce back. Lesson: when sales slow, get on the phone—and the radio. / Expanding Into Upholstery and Home Design With growing demand for more than just curtains and blinds, Fabriq now offers custom upholstery, ottomans, cushions, and bedheads. Their team repurposes old pieces and creates bespoke furnishings, extending their reach into full-home design. / Building a Skilled, Culture-Focused Team The business employs a tight-knit team of eight, including family members and long-standing staff. Melanie prioritises culture and personality fit as much as skills—especially in the workroom—ensuring longevity and collaboration. / Rebuilding Reputation Post-Takeover When Melanie and Justin first bought the business, customers assumed the original owner had left—and quality with it. Reputation management became key. Their mistake? Not telling the story well enough. The fix? Consistent messaging and community engagement. / Systemising vs. Knowing by Heart Melanie admits most operational knowledge still lives in team members’ heads—a risk they’re slowly addressing. With staff retention high, it’s worked so far, but creating documented systems remains a priority for long-term scalability. / Embracing Smart Homes: When Curtains Go Digital Fabriq now installs motorised window treatments integrated with Google or Siri. Melanie stresses the importance of early-stage collaboration with builders and architects to plan for wiring, power, and automation in modern homes. / The Reality of Small Business Ownership Melanie gives a candid account of the ongoing rollercoaster of entrepreneurship: good years, hard years, and everything in between. She emphasises persistence, team loyalty, and remembering why you started—as key to staying in the game.   References Fabriq – https://fabriq.com.au/ Designers Guild – https://www.designersguild.com Studio Ink (Branding Agency) – https://www.studioink.com.au  

Remarkable Regional Businesses – Episode 28 Guest: Lachlan EdwardsBusiness Name: OFRM LawyersWebsite: https://ofrm.com.au/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lachlan-edwards-ba0283198/     Topics Covered / Making Law Engaging and Practical for Business OwnersLachlan Edwards shares his approach to making law more relatable for small business owners, breaking down complex legal concepts into understandable and practical advice. His goal? To be the lawyer who makes law not boring. / The Four Phases of Legal Business SupportLachlan outlines a proactive legal framework for business success: Setup – Choosing the right business structure (sole trader, company, trust). Support – Creating infrastructure like contracts, guest waivers, and IP agreements. Responsive – Handling employment issues, conflicts, and social media risks. Exit – Facilitating clean and fair transitions with ownership agreements. / From Courtroom to Counsel: Inside a Regional Law FirmOFRM is a multidisciplinary law firm serving individuals and businesses across regional Victoria. Lachlan describes the firm's structure, team collaboration, and the breadth of services offered — from wills and estates to family, property, and commercial law. / Beyond the Billable Hour: Value-Based PricingLachlan explains OFRM’s shift away from traditional time-based billing. Instead, they’re adopting value-based pricing to align legal services with business outcomes, especially in commercial and conveyancing matters. / Building a Collaborative Legal TeamTo avoid departmental silos, OFRM encourages cross-pollination between its legal teams through regular “lunch and learn” meetings. This creates a dynamic learning culture and stronger client service. / Governance vs. Operations: The Leadership Balancing ActAs a law firm director and board member at organisations like Bendigo Stadium and Bendigo UFS, Lachlan discusses the challenge of separating strategic governance from day-to-day operations — a vital skill for any business leader. / Law and Leadership Through Real-World ScenariosIn a light-hearted "Will Caleb Go to Jail?" segment, Lachlan guides the host through real-world scenarios involving partnerships, intellectual property, and employee misconduct — offering legal insight in an engaging, relatable format.   / Unwritten Agreements and the Partnership RiskA cautionary tale on the dangers of informal collaborations. Lachlan explains how lack of agreements in creative partnerships can lead to legal disputes — and how simple documents could prevent big headaches. / Employment Law: Social Media, Misconduct, and Legal RiskLachlan explores how businesses should handle controversial employee behavior online, the role of employment contracts and policies, and how anti-discrimination laws influence termination decisions. / Personal Journey: From Deniliquin to Law DirectorLachlan recounts his shift from journalism to law, his early days in community legal centres, and how living abroad helped him find clarity in his career. His story reflects the values of persistence, service, and local impact.   References OFRM – https://ofrm.com.au/ Fair Work Legislation - https://www.fairwork.gov.au/about-us/legislation Bendigo Stadium / Red Energy Arena - https://redenergyarena.com.au/ Bendigo UFS - https://www.bendigoufs.com.au/ Consumer Action Law Centre - https://consumeraction.org.au/

Remarkable Regional Businesses – Episode 27 Guest: Anthony JenkinBusiness Name: Outlier StudioWebsite: https://outlierstudio.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-jenkin-6b553785/     Topics Covered / From Carpentry to Climate-Conscious Design: The Birth of Outlier StudioAnthony shares his unconventional journey from carpentry and skatepark construction to founding Outlier Studio — a design firm committed to creating energy-efficient, durable homes. His early trade experiences and later education in building design and entrepreneurship shaped a mission-driven business. / Verifying What’s Built Matches What’s DesignedOutlier Studio specialises in “as-built verification,” using onsite testing to ensure homes are constructed exactly to energy efficiency specs. Anthony highlights how common it is for features like insulation to be compromised during construction — often unnoticed by builders or regulators. / Blower Door Tests and Energy Modelling: Tools of the TradeThe episode dives into the specifics of energy audits, including blower door tests and thermal imaging. These tools expose air leaks and insulation failures and guide low-cost upgrades that significantly boost energy efficiency and comfort. / Australia’s ‘Glorified Tents’: A Housing Wake-Up CallAnthony critiques the poor thermal performance of many Australian homes, especially compared to global standards. He cites alarming World Health Organisation data showing that many rental properties fall below minimum safe temperatures — especially harming vulnerable populations. / Designing for Health and Comfort, Not Just AestheticsInspired by passive house principles, Outlier Studio designs homes that prioritise air quality, thermal stability and occupant wellbeing. Anthony explains how airtight construction, controlled ventilation and even plant placement can create healthier living environments. / A Full-Service, Performance-Driven StudioOutlier handles everything from client briefs and regulatory research to energy modelling, concept design and construction phase testing. Their integrated approach avoids budget blowouts by involving builders early and managing cost throughout the design process. / Architect vs Building Designer: What’s the Difference?Anthony unpacks the legal, educational and practical distinctions between architects and building designers — and why the title isn’t always a proxy for quality. His advice? Interview the designer, assess values alignment and focus on relationships over labels. / The Courage to Niche: Committing to Sustainable BuildsA pivotal decision to only accept sustainable projects redefined the business. Anthony speaks candidly about the fear of losing work — and the unexpected rewards of finding a community that shares his passion and supports open knowledge-sharing. / Modular Construction and European Prefab PanelsOutlier Studio has expanded to offer prefabricated, high-performance wall systems imported from Europe. These panels reduce waste, speed up builds, and ensure long-term insulation and durability — a game changer for remote or hard-to-build areas. / Vertical Integration: From Design to Turnkey DeliveryThe studio now builds complete modular homes off-site and delivers them ready-to-live. Anthony reveals how this leap was powered by smart systems, tech stacks, and a lean team — allowing them to grow without rapidly expanding headcount. / Leading a Business That Builds You BackAnthony and the host reflect on how building a values-driven business catalyses personal growth. From mental resilience to sales and leadership, Anthony shares how the business journey shaped him — and why constant learning is key to staying relevant and impactful. / Scaling Sustainably with PurposeWhether it’s future government partnerships, prefab innovation, or creating more energy-literate builders, Anthony’s vision is national. His mission is simple: better homes for Australians, built with performance, dignity, and health in

Remarkable Regional Businesses – Episode 26 Guest: Shannon LemanskiBusiness Name: Aqua UbiqueWebsite: https://aquaubique.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-lemanski/     Topics Covered / Turning Air into Water: The Aqua Ubique Story Shannon introduces the core concept behind Aqua Ubique: a water cooler that doesn’t require plumbing or bottles, but instead generates clean, mineral-rich drinking water from air. He explains the proprietary filtration and mineralisation process, and how it delivers premium water without harmful chemicals or microplastics. / From Army Officer to Startup Founder A deeply personal origin story traces back to Shannon’s time in the Australian Army. His experience managing drinking water logistics during overseas deployments — and witnessing local communities scavenging plastic bottles for clean water — planted the seeds for a socially driven enterprise. / Tackling Australia’s Hidden Water Crisis Shannon sheds light on the staggering reality that over 8% of Australians, especially in remote or Indigenous communities, lack access to safe drinking water. He shares shocking examples from places like Cherbourg, where children drink cola instead of formula due to water mistrust. / Engineering with Empathy: The Product Design The machines are designed to operate reliably in diverse Australian climates, from humid offices to drier regions like Bendigo. Shannon emphasises user-friendliness, minimal maintenance and data transparency as key differentiators from offshore alternatives. / A Social Enterprise Model That Scales Aqua Ubique operates on a “buy five, give one” model: for every five office units sold, one machine is deployed to a remote community. This approach solves both a commercial and social problem, making every customer part of the impact story. / Positioning for Purpose and Profit Shannon explains why social good isn’t enough — products must also be more affordable, more effective and deliver better value. His pricing model saves businesses money while cutting plastic waste and emissions. / Strategic Thinking: Military Roots, Business Execution Using military planning tools like SMEAC and mission appreciation, Shannon approached the startup like a tactical operation. His first business plan was literally sketched using army formats to map competitors, allies and customer segments. / Winning Without Paid Marketing Despite zero marketing spend, Shannon has achieved rapid sales growth through highly targeted outreach, local networking and word-of-mouth. He pinpoints small to mid-sized businesses with high bottled water usage and services them within 90 minutes to ensure quality support. / Offers So Good They Convert Themselves Shannon describes the slam-dunk offer inspired by Alex Hormozi: 90-day risk-free trial, full refund plus $100 for wasted time. The results? Zero returns and sky-high conversion rates. / Leadership, Legacy and Staying Values-Driven As a father and former officer, Shannon reflects on humility, servant leadership, and building a business that aligns with deeply held values. He rejects commodification in favour of relational business that customers are proud to support. / Vision for the Future With strong early traction and national banks courting Aqua Ubique to support ESG goals, Shannon aims to scale nationwide, and ultimately, globally. His mission is clear: deliver 1 million litres of clean water into communities by 2030.   References Alex Hormozi – How to Turn Trash into Cash https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaiLcj6tzBQ Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council Water Crisis  – https://nit.com.au/08-10-2024/14116/queesland-government-announce-26million-to-tackle-cherbourgs-long-running-water-crisis Silicon Coast – Sunshine Coast innovation ecosystem https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/business/regional-innovation/the-ecosystem

Remarkable Regional Businesses – Episode 25 Guest: Tom IsaacsBusiness Name: PRD BendigoWebsite: https://www.prd.com.au/bendigo/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tom-isaacs-45b69397/   Topics Covered / Building PRD Bendigo from the Ground UpTom shares the journey of growing PRD Bendigo from zero market presence to one of the leading real estate agencies in the region. He reflects on the early days, unexpected opportunities, and how initial “dumb luck” evolved into strategic business decisions. / Reimagining Real Estate Business ModelsThis episode unpacks how Tom departed from the traditional real estate model to build a fully resourced, department-led structure. From media to sales to admin, each arm of the business supports growth and enables team specialisation. / Creating Career Pathways and a Scalable TeamTom explains how PRD fosters long-term careers by developing internal pathways - from support roles to independent agents or management tracks. The team culture is built on clarity, mentorship and flexibility. / The Power of Culture CaptainsA standout initiative, “culture captains,” empowers team members to uphold values and call out misalignment, creating peer-led accountability. Tom discusses how this simple framework transformed team dynamics and strengthened internal cohesion. / Investing in People and Personal GoalsRather than traditional KPIs, PRD’s leadership begins with personal aspirations. Whether it’s buying a home or starting a family, team reviews are structured around what matters most to each employee. / Embedding Community into the Business ModelTom shares the origin and structure of the PRD Community First Fund - a quarterly initiative where staff contributions are matched by the business to support underfunded community organisations. Past recipients include Sunshine Bendigo and Southern Cross Kids Camp. / Changing Public Perceptions of Real EstateTom and host Caleb discuss the negative stereotypes around real estate agents and how PRD is helping shift that narrative through service-first mindsets, trust-building and long-term community commitment. / Leadership Lessons and Evolving RolesFrom hands-on sales to full-time leadership, Tom reflects on stepping out of the frontline, especially during COVID, and how that transition demanded new approaches to empathy, vision and business planning. References PRD Bendigo – https://www.prd.com.au/bendigo/ Sunshine Bendigo – https://www.sunshinebendigo.org.auSouthern Cross Kids’ Camp – https://www.sckc.org.auSimon Sinek – https://simonsinek.com

Remarkable Regional Businesses – Episode 24 Guest: Ben AmosBusiness Name: Innovate Media Websites: https://innovatemedia.com.au/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/beninnovate   Topics Covered / From Videographer to StrategistBen Amos shares his journey from traditional video production to becoming a pioneer in video strategy. He discusses the realisation that delivering high-quality videos without strategic input often fails to deliver real value to clients. / Why Video Needs StrategyBen and host Caleb discuss the importance of video strategy in business - how it connects business goals with audience needs, customer journeys, and platform-specific execution. They break down what it means to move from “video for video’s sake” to intentional, goal-oriented video content. / Innovate Media and Regional RootsBen gives an overview of his agency, Innovate Media, based on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. He talks about the unique opportunities and challenges of running a regional business and how regional agencies can still lead globally in innovation and thought leadership. / The Rise of the Video StrategistThe role of a video strategist is dissected - part producer, part marketer. Ben emphasises the importance of helping clients choose the right video for the right audience at the right time and measuring results meaningfully. / Educating Through Content and PodcastingBen reflects on launching the Engage Video Marketing Podcast as a way to “learn out loud.” Now with over 300 episodes, the podcast has grown into a platform that attracts clients, builds authority and deepens his industry relationships.   / Launching an Online Brand and BookBeyond his agency, Ben talks about building a personal brand through content, courses, and coaching—culminating in the release of his book Engage. He outlines how this thought leadership initiative has fueled both personal and business growth. / Resilience and Revenue in a Challenging YearBen explains how 2024 began with uncertainty but ended with Innovate Media’s strongest year in revenue. He attributes this success to long-term client relationships, consistent value-driven communication and strategic selling. / Business Lessons and Leadership GrowthBen shares key lessons from over 16 years in business, including learning to manage time and ideas, building protective routines around work-life balance and developing a mission-first mindset with clients and his team. / Lead with Value, AlwaysThe episode emphasises the power of leading with education, not sales. Ben advocates for a business approach rooted in generosity, strategic listening and building genuine trust - especially when selling creative or consulting services. References Engage the Book – https://engagevideomarketing.thrivecart.com/engage-book/ Engage Video Marketing Podcast – https://engagevideomarketing.com/podcast/ Riverside.fm – https://riverside.fm/ Smart Passive Income Podcast – https://www.smartpassiveincome.com/spi/ Loom – https://www.loom.com/ 

Remarkable Regional Businesses – Episode 23 Guest: Julie SheahanBusiness Name: 3D Physiotherapy Health GroupWebsite: www.3dphysio.com.au/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/julie-sheahan-5b90b3165/ Topics Covered / The Philosophy Behind 3D PhysiotherapyJulie Sheahan introduces the mission of 3D Physio, a practice grounded in the biopsychosocial model of care. She explains how their approach treats not just physical symptoms but the whole person—body, mind, and soul. / Evolving the Clinic ExperienceJulie outlines how the practice has expanded to include multiple locations, a purpose-built exercise studio, and integrated services like podiatry and naturopathy. The goal is to offer a holistic health hub that supports prevention and empowerment. / Rethinking Traditional PhysiotherapyRather than relying on ongoing appointments, Julie and her team focus on education and self-management. They help clients understand the root cause of injuries, develop personalized strength programs, and shift toward long-term, preventative care. / Combatting the Reactive Healthcare ModelJulie challenges the conventional, reactive model of healthcare and instead promotes a culture of proactive well-being. She emphasizes the need to shift both public perception and healthcare practices to support prevention over treatment. / Strength and Aging WellJulie shares how 3D Physio runs programs like Strong for Life, GLA:D, and Onero to support older adults with strength, balance, and mobility. Clients in their 70s and 80s are performing exercises like deadlifts and lunges, redefining what’s possible as we age. / The Impact of Food and Inflammation on HealthWhile not a nutritionist herself, Julie discusses how diet—particularly industrialized, boxed foods—can lead to chronic inflammation and poor musculoskeletal health. She stresses the importance of whole, nutrient-dense foods to support healing and performance. / Building a Mission-Driven TeamJulie reflects on creating a culture where every team member is aligned with a shared “why.” From regular alignment days to hiring based on values, she’s focused on creating an environment where purpose drives performance. / Business Growth, Awards, and LeadershipJulie shares the story of starting 3D Physio in 2018 and gradually growing the team and services. She discusses winning multiple Bendigo Business Excellence Awards, including the Regional Women’s Award, and how mentorship and strategic hiring have supported her leadership journey. / Managing Change Without Burning Out the TeamRecognizing the challenges of being an ideas-driven entrepreneur, Julie brought in a change consultant to help structure and pace innovation. She explains how this improved internal communication, stabilized the team, and allowed them to implement new systems more effectively. References GLA:D Program – https://gladaustralia.com.au/Radical Candor (book) – https://www.radicalcandor.com/Biopsychosocial Model of Care – https://www.physio-pedia.com/Biopsychosocial_Model Bendigo Business Excellence Awards – https://bbea.com.au/  

Remarkable Regional Businesses - Episode 22 Guest: Kyle RackiBusiness Name: ProposifyWebsite: https://www.proposify.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleracki Topics Covered / The Journey of Proposify Kyle Racki shares how he transitioned from a freelance designer and agency owner to the founder of Proposify. He talks about the early frustrations of creating proposals manually and how that led him to develop a SaaS solution that streamlines and improves the proposal process for businesses. / Building and Scaling a SaaS Business Proposify started as a small, bootstrapped venture and has since grown into a 65-person company. Kyle discusses the early growth phase, the impact of adding features like e-signatures and proposal templates, and how they found their product-market fit. / The Challenges of Rapid Scaling Scaling too quickly brought unexpected challenges. Kyle shares insights on why adding more people doesn’t always lead to greater efficiency, how too many management layers slowed decision-making, and why they ultimately scaled back from 110 employees. / Leadership, Culture, and Radical Candor As the company grew, Kyle realized the importance of fostering a strong company culture. He explains how he introduced “Radical Candor” as a core value, encouraging open, honest feedback while maintaining a positive workplace environment. / Personal Growth as a Founder Kyle reflects on the personal and professional development required to lead a growing company. From learning to have tough conversations to seeking mentorship and business coaching, he shares how continual self-improvement has played a critical role in Proposify’s success. / Vision, Strategy, and Staying Connected to Customers Rather than focusing solely on high-level strategy, Kyle emphasizes the importance of staying involved in the day-to-day realities of the business. He explains how engaging with customers, keeping an eye on competitors, and understanding industry trends help shape the company’s direction. / The Power of Online Proposal Software Proposify simplifies the proposal process, making it easy for businesses to create, send, and track professional proposals. Kyle highlights key benefits, such as real-time updates, integrated e-signatures, and data tracking—giving sales teams the tools they need to close deals faster and stand out from the competition. / The Role of Founder Branding vs. Product Excellence While personal branding can be valuable, Kyle believes the best companies focus on building great products rather than making their CEOs famous. He shares examples of companies that have succeeded without high-profile founders and discusses what really matters when scaling a SaaS business. References Proposify – https://www.proposify.com Radical Candor by Kim Scott – https://www.radicalcandor.com/  Zapier – https://zapier.com/  Loom – https://www.loom.com/ 

Remarkable Regional Businesses - Episode 21 Guest: Kira HydeBusiness Name: The KH StudioWebsite: https://www.thekhstudio.co/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirahyde/   Topics Covered / The Journey of The KH Studio Kira Hyde shares how she founded The KH Studio, a boutique brand design and marketing agency based in Bendigo. She explains how the business has evolved from a solo operation focused on branding and website design into a full-service marketing agency that now offers SEO, Google Ads, social media management, and marketing strategy.   / A Strategy-Driven Approach to Branding and Marketing Kira discusses how The KH Studio differentiates itself in the competitive marketing industry by offering strategy-first, integrated digital solutions. She highlights the importance of blending branding, creativity, and technology to deliver bold, high-impact results for businesses across various industries.   / Scaling a Business to Meet Client Needs The KH Studio has grown by carefully listening to client needs and expanding its service offerings accordingly. Kira explains the journey from a freelancer to a business leader, the challenges of scaling a boutique agency, and how her team has developed long-term client partnerships.   / Business Growth and Lessons in Leadership Kira shares key insights from her entrepreneurial journey, including the challenges of hiring employees vs. contractors, maintaining company culture, and creating a sustainable business model. She also talks about the importance of business mentorship, the impact of working with a board of advisors, and the personal growth required to lead a creative business.   / Award-Winning Excellence The KH Studio was recently recognised at the 2024 Bendigo Excellence Awards, winning the Professional Services Firm of the Year. Kira reflects on what this award means for her business and the importance of elevating creative professionals in the regional business landscape.   / The Role of Processes and Systems in Business Success Kira explains how implementing structured processes and automation has allowed The KH Studio to deliver high-quality results while remaining boutique. She shares insights on how they use client portals, time tracking, and streamlined workflows to enhance efficiency and improve the client experience.   / Building a Team That Works for Your Business Model Unlike traditional agencies, The KH Studio operates with a hybrid team structure, consisting of core team members and specialised contractors. Kira explains why this model provides flexibility, scalability, and top-tier expertise, allowing them to compete with larger agencies while maintaining a personalised, boutique approach.   / The Entrepreneurial Journey & Work-Life Balance Starting her business at just 20 years old, Kira has had a unique entrepreneurial journey—including traveling through Europe while running her business remotely. She shares lessons on balancing work and life, staying motivated as a business owner, and the importance of trusting your own instincts when making business decisions.   References The KH Studio - https://www.thekhstudio.co/Bendigo Excellence Awards - https://bbea.com.au/award-categories/Tools & Systems Mentioned: CRM software, Slack, Google Ads, SEO tools, client portals  

Remarkable Regional Businesses - Episode 20 Guest: Joe CiancioBusiness Name: Maxsum ConsultingWebsite: www.maxsum.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-ciancio-gaicd-76a95a1a/   Topics Covered / Introduction to Maxsum Consulting Joe Ciancio, founder and Managing Director of Maxsum Consulting, shares the story of how the business evolved from a small IT solutions provider to a consulting firm focused on business strategy, technology integration, and digital transformation. He explains how rebranding from “Maxsum Solutions” to “Maxsum Consulting” reflects their shift from IT services to strategic business enablement.   / Moving Beyond Commoditised IT Services Joe discusses how technology is often seen as a necessary but low-value utility, like electricity, rather than a strategic asset. He emphasises the importance of aligning technology with business goals to drive efficiency, productivity, and competitive advantage.   / Strategic IT Partnerships vs. Transactional IT Services Maxsum Consulting prioritises working with businesses that view IT as a strategic enabler rather than just a cost. Joe explains how they engage with organisation’s that seek long-term IT partnerships, focusing on business outcomes rather than low-cost, one-off solutions.   / The Power of Data and AI in Business Growth Joe highlights how data is the most valuable asset for modern businesses, comparing its impact to that of oil in the industrial era. He discusses how AI tools are now accessible to small and medium-sized businesses but require proper implementation and data security measures to be effective.   / Security Challenges in the Age of AI With AI-driven tools like Microsoft Copilot making data more accessible, Joe stresses the importance of securing internal information. He shares insights on how businesses must carefully manage access to sensitive data to avoid unintentional breaches and misinformation caused by AI "hallucinations."   / Change Management and Digital Transformation Technology alone does not drive change—people do. Joe discusses the critical role of change management in IT implementations, citing examples of businesses that failed to adopt new technology due to poor training and communication. He shares best practices for successfully integrating new systems into an organisations workflow.   / Serving Diverse Industries Across Victoria Maxsum Consulting operates across multiple industries, including professional services, local government, manufacturing, mining, and non-profit sectors. Joe explains how their approach is tailored to the unique needs of each industry, particularly in high-compliance fields like aged care and disability services.   / Business Growth and Organisational Culture Joe reflects on how Maxsum Consulting’s internal growth journey has been shaped by clearly defined cultural values. He shares how their company’s mission—"Enable Opportunity and Realise Potential"—guides both their client engagements and internal team development.   / Personal Growth and Leadership Lessons Transitioning from a hands-on IT technician to a business leader required Joe to develop new skills in delegation, trust, and strategic decision-making. He shares key lessons in leadership, including the importance of empowering teams, maintaining work-life balance, and fostering a culture of continuous learning.   References Maxsum Consulting - https://www.maxsum.com/Microsoft Copilot - https://copilot.microsoft.com/chats/FvkUQRLGyjJpcsXcKq7hmISO Certifications - https://www.iso.org/home.html  

Remarkable Regional Businesses - Episode 19   Guest: Lisa Renato Business Name: Lifeline Loddon Mallee Website: www.lifelinelm.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisamrenato   Topics Covered / Introduction to Lifeline Loddon Mallee: Lisa Renato introduces Lifeline’s mission, explaining its critical role in providing crisis support and suicide prevention services. She shares how the organisation serves regional communities and why local awareness is essential.   / Lifeline’s Local and National Impact: Lifeline operates 24/7 crisis support services through call centres in Bendigo and Mildura, staffed by nearly 100 volunteers. While most people recognise Lifeline’s national hotline (13 11 14), many are unaware of the regional centres that answer these calls. In addition to crisis support, Lifeline delivers mental health first aid, suicide prevention training, and domestic violence awareness programs.   / The Scale of the Crisis in Australia: Lifeline Australia answers approximately 1.3 million crisis calls annually, with 2% classified as imminent suicide risk. Financial stress, loneliness, and economic challenges are driving an increase in calls. Locally, the Loddon Mallee call centres answered 22,000 calls last year, reflecting the high demand for support in the region.   / Volunteerism and Community Engagement: Volunteers at Lifeline not only contribute their time but also gain valuable skills in crisis intervention, active listening, and mental health awareness. These skills often extend into their personal and professional lives, allowing them to support friends, family, and colleagues in distress. Since COVID, recruiting and retaining volunteers has become more challenging, making community engagement and flexibility crucial in maintaining a strong team.   / Leadership in a Non-Profit Environment: Transitioning from the corporate world to non-profit leadership required Lisa to rethink traditional business strategies. Instead of focusing on sales and profits, her leadership now centres on volunteer engagement, trust, and accountability. She shares how she moved away from micromanagement and embraced outcome-based leadership to create a culture where volunteers and staff feel valued and motivated.   / Fundraising and Sustainability: With 75% of its annual funding needing to be raised independently, Lifeline Loddon Mallee relies on a mix of revenue streams. The organisation operates a thrift store as a social enterprise, providing affordable goods while generating income to support crisis services. Additionally, they offer mental health first aid training to businesses and community groups. The Hello for Hope campaign unites local businesses and individuals in fundraising efforts, demonstrating the power of community-driven support.   / Suicide Prevention and Regional Challenges: In 2022, Australia recorded 3,249 deaths by suicide—nearly double the national road toll. Men account for 75% of suicides, with rising rates among men over 65. Lisa highlights the need for targeted community initiatives that encourage early intervention and support. By increasing awareness and equipping people with the skills to recognise distress, Lifeline is working towards its vision of a suicide-free Australia.   / Personal Growth and Lessons in Leadership: Lisa reflects on her leadership journey, emphasising the importance of delegation, trust, and flexibility. She has learned to create an environment where team members take ownership and feel safe to contribute ideas and take risks. By fostering a culture of psychological safety, Lifeline Loddon Mallee encourages innovation and adaptability in its mission to support those in crisis.   References Lifeline Australia: www.lifeline.org.au Lifeline Loddon Mallee: www.lifelinelm.com  Crisis Support Hotline: 13 11 14 (Available 24/7) Mental Health First Aid Training: www.lifelinelm.com/start-training