In this conversation, Alena Bennett and David Fish explore the multifaceted nature of business success, emphasising the importance of connection, authenticity, and visibility in leadership. They discuss how leaders can navigate tough times, the balance between money and people, and the significance of storytelling and packaging in business. Fishy shares insights from his aeronautics and aviation experience, highlighting the need for focus and clarity in high-pressure situations.To reach out to David Fish: https://www.davidfish.com.au/https://www.davidfish.com.au/authorhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/david-fish-fishy/The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.Chapters00:00 Introduction to David Fish and His Philosophy00:35 Thought Provoking Question of the Week04:56 Defining Business Success and Leadership06:48 The Importance of Authenticity and Connection08:39 Navigating Career Fulfillment and Value10:35 Understanding the Cycle of Value and Connection13:49 The Role of Validation in Professional Life15:36 Recognising Personal Contribution and Value19:14 Lessons from Aviation: Focus and Risk Management23:07 Applying Aviation Lessons to Business Strategy24:25 Identifying Roles and Responsibilities in Leadership28:01 Effective Offsite Strategies for Leadership Teams30:13 Prioritising Projects for Maximum Impact32:04 The Aftermath of Offsites: Accountability and Action Plans32:58 Winning in Business: The Meaning of Success34:56 Closing the Gap: From Ideas to Business Success37:35 Money vs. People: The Foundational Dilemma41:40 Authenticity vs. Packaging: Finding the Balance48:24 Internal Credibility: Building External Presence57:06 Visibility in a Digital World: The Importance of Showing Up59:23 Listener Question: Resilience in Business01:00:04 The Impact of Tough Times on Business01:07:08 Emotional Resilience and Anti-Fragility in Organisations
In this conversation, Alena Bennett interviews Karma Auden, the CFO of the University of New England, who shares her unique career journey from aspiring pharmacist to financial storyteller. Karma discusses the importance of understanding the human side of finance, the impact of purpose-driven work, and the nuances between impact and outcome in financial discussions. She emphasises the need for financial storytelling to make numbers relatable and engaging, and shares her experiences using metaphors to enhance communication in financial presentations. The dialogue highlights the evolving role of finance professionals as they navigate the intersection of numbers and people, ultimately advocating for a more empathetic approach to financial communication.To reach out to Karma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karmaauden/The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.Chapters00:00 TPQ: Are you Avoiding Simple, Because it's not Easy?05:22 Chat with Karma Auden: Karma's Unique Career Path10:04 The Impact of Purpose in Work11:21 Understanding Impact vs. Outcome18:31 The Art of Financial Storytelling26:04 Using Metaphors in Financial Presentations28:32 The Role of Feelings in Financial Storytelling31:09 Balancing Integrity and Messaging in Finance34:13 Understanding the Real Math of Business37:47 Linking Time Investment to Outcomes41:40 Framework for Financial Storytelling47:19 The Intersection of Numbers and People50:01 Inspiration from Businesses and Leaders
In this episode, Alena Bennett welcomes Danette Fenton-Menzies, a seasoned expert in leadership and family business dynamics. They explore the challenges of change fatigue, the importance of understanding individual perspectives in organisations, and the balance between short-term and long-term goals.Danette shares insights on the significance of diversity in decision-making, the role of authenticity and ego in family businesses, and practical tips for professionals navigating these environments. The conversation emphasises the need for curiosity, courage, and self-awareness in leadership, providing listeners with valuable tools to enhance their effectiveness in both family and corporate settings.To reach out to Danette:https://www.danettefm.com/https://www.magicallearning.com/To grab a copy of The Adaptable Leader:https://www.danettefm.com/shop-Xr7Ip/p/the-adaptable-leader-paperbackThe Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.Chapters:00:00 TPQ: Is Your Company Hamstrung by Fear, Legacy or Inertia?06:06 Career Trajectory and Passion for Family Business10:38 Family Businesses vs. Private Companies15:16 Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Goals20:28 Navigating Difficult Conversations in Family Businesses24:00 Authenticity in Family Business Leadership28:29 Navigating Change in Leadership33:41 Curiosity and Collaboration in Organizations38:05 Influencing Family Business Dynamics42:02 Understanding Ego in Leadership48:14 Building Courage in Leadership52:12 The Math of Courage and Comfort54:16 The People Side of Business Challenges57:29 Navigating Change: Micro and Macro Perspectives
In this episode of the Real Math of Business, Alena Bennett speaks with Lindsay Hutchinson, CEO of Eve Health and CHARLI Health. They discuss Lindsay's career journey, the impact of COVID-19 on business, and the unexpected transition from CFO to CEO. The conversation delves into the human side of business, balancing patient care with financial health, and the role of community and empathy in leadership. They also explore the challenges of a tech startup, the integration of AI in healthcare, and the importance of having a team aligned in vision for sustainable success.To reach out to Lindsey:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-hutchinson-70aa4119/?originalSubdomain=auChapters00:00 Intro and WINATM10:26 Navigating Healthcare Business Dynamics15:38 Balancing Patient Care and Financial Health20:54 Innovating Healthcare with Technology26:07 The Challenges of Transitioning to a Tech Startup30:47 Navigating Difficult Conversations31:50 Wearing Many Hats in Business34:54 The Recipe for Success37:17 The Reality of Leadership41:29 The Role of AI in Healthcare45:06 Common Themes in Business Success48:41 The Human Side of Business54:06 Listener Question
In this episode of the Real Math of Business podcast, host Alena Bennett speaks with Greg Hutchinson, CEO of Cape Dunstans, about the complexities of leadership, the importance of self-leadership, and the nuances of defining success in business. They explore the weight of responsibility that leaders carry, the dynamics of team interactions, and the significance of community engagement. Greg shares insights from his journey from engineer to CEO, emphasising the need for open-mindedness and adaptability in leadership roles. The conversation highlights the distinction between momentary success and sustainable success, encouraging leaders to focus on long-term impact and the well-being of their teams.To reach out to Greg:https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-hutchinson-7929baa4/The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Real Math of Business + WINATM09:40 Defining Success in Business13:05 Sustainability vs. Point-in-Time Success16:23 The Role of People in Business Success19:46 Planning and Execution in Construction23:26 Navigating Market Challenges27:08 Transitioning from Operations to Business Leadership30:45 The Importance of Team Dynamics33:40 Community Contribution and Corporate Responsibility37:24 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways42:03 Listener Question - Navigating Promotion Decisions
In this episode of the Real Math of Business podcast, Alena Bennett speaks with Yvonne Hilsz, a master sales coach, about the duality of the math and people sides of business. They discuss the importance of mindset in sales, the role of data in performance management, and the need for individualised coaching to elevate team performance. Yvonne shares insights on hiring a CFO, budgeting challenges in a volatile economy, and the significance of creating a sustainable sales culture. The conversation emphasises the importance of understanding sales cohorts and the cost of missed opportunities in business.To reach out to Yvonne:https://www.yvonnehilsz.com/https://www.instagram.com/yvonnehilsz/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonnehilsz/And to take the "Sell with Confidence" Quiz:https://yvonnehilsz.outgrow.us/SWC?kuid=eae22bf3-4ef2-4b82-821c-95041ab16d6a-1754021696&kref=e7j6N04ObL9cThe Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sales Mastery05:00 Interview with Yvonne Hilsz06:48 The Money Mindset in Sales10:09 Expecting a Yes: The Key to Sales Success15:41 Understanding Performance Types in Sales19:39 Coaching High Performers Effectively25:52 The Cost of Underperformance31:44 The Importance of Coaching in Business36:09 The Role of Money in Performance40:56 Balancing Short-Term Gains with Long-Term Relationships44:08 Leadership Culture and Its Impact on Sales48:33 Data-Driven Decisions in Sales Management54:10 Listener Question: What to Look for in a CFO in 202559:57 Building Effective Leadership Dynamics
In this episode of the Real Math of Business, Alena Bennett speaks with Daniel Munk, CEO of Wests Illawarra, about the intricate relationship between people and profit in business. They explore the importance of honesty in leadership, the impact of values on company culture, and the necessity of long-term thinking in business strategies. Daniel shares insights from his diverse career journey, emphasising the need for leaders to adapt to change and support their employees. The conversation highlights the significance of trust, community impact, and the legacy of leadership in shaping successful organisations.The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.Chapters00:00 The Real Math of Business00:40 WINATM: Honesty is at a Premium in Business05:05 Chat with Daniel Munk10:52 Danny's Career Journey20:04 People Over Profit26:52 The Importance of Values32:29 Thinking Long-Term38:49 Personal Growth and Leadership47:36 Closing Thoughts and Reflections52:31 The Power of Honesty in Leadership52:32 Realizing the True Math of Business59:02 RMOB Faster .mp4
In this episode of the Real Math of Business podcast, Alena Bennett interviews Harry Marfatia, who shares his interesting career through many industries and insights on the importance of a purpose-driven mindset in business.
Harry discusses his career trajectory, emphasising the need for finance to be business-driven rather than just number-focused. He highlights the significance of culture in driving business success and the role of values in decision-making. The conversation also touches on the importance of creating a productive workforce and the need for CFOs to uphold organizational values while navigating business challenges.
Alena shares her WINATM about Warren Buffett's retirement, and his lessons on business hygiene, as well as a listener question.
To reach out to Harry Marfatia:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-marfatia-0bb0a911/
The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.
And to grab a copy of Alena's latest book "CFO of the Future: https://www.alenabennett.com.au/books
And to reach out to Alena:
www.alenabennett.com.au
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alenabennett/
Chapters
00:00: Intro and Warren Buffett Retires; His Lessons on Business Hygiene
05:30 Introduction and Purpose-Driven Mindset
07:33 Career Journey and Strategic Planning
12:33 Finance as a Business Driver
16:23 Ingredients for Business Success
19:12 Culture vs. Finance in Business
23:16 Values and Community Impact
24:55 Navigating Business Decisions
27:58 Fear of Losing vs. Frustration of Not Winning
32:38 Learning from Challenges and Driving Value
34:35 Listener Question
In this episode, Alena Bennett interviews Julia Van Graas, co-founder of Leaders on Demand, discussing her journey from becoming an accountant to leading in the field of leadership and culture. They explore the importance of understanding business dynamics, the evolving nature of leadership, and the critical role of emotional intelligence and purpose in achieving success. Julia shares insights on navigating special situations, the necessity of execution in leadership, and the courage required to have difficult conversations. The conversation emphasises that leadership is a collective effort, and investing in people is essential for organisational success.Alena also shares her WINATM on health; and answers a listener question about how to keep up with all the innovations and change going onTo reach out to Julia Van Graas:Linkedin: /juliavangraas/The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.Chapters00:00 Intro and WINATM: Health and Business08:02 Introduction to Julia Van Graas09:20 The Journey to Accounting11:48 Understanding Business in Special Situations14:52 Defining Business Success18:54 The Importance of Execution in Leadership26:49 Navigating Change and Courage in Leadership31:02 Courage to Change and Redirect Resources33:26 Understanding Purpose at Organizational and Individual Levels35:25 Navigating Generational Leadership Challenges39:38 Emotional Literacy and Leadership Development43:21 Balancing Numbers and People in Leadership47:09 Engaging Teams for Collective Success51:45 Listener Question
In this episode of the Real Math of Business podcast, Alena Bennett interviews David Gunn, a risk management expert, who shares his unique perspective on risk as a strategic enabler in business.
David discusses his career journey, the importance of positivity in risk management, and how to create a culture of smart risk-taking within organisations. He emphasises the need for resilience in the current business landscape and the significance of embedding risk management into everyday business practices.
The conversation highlights the value of storytelling, language, and open dialogue in making risk management relevant and impactful.
Alena also shares her WINATM (What I'm Noticing At The Moment) about whether companies can burn out, and a listener question about feeling unfulfilled in a current role.
To reach out to David Gunn;
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-gunn-b485502/
The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.
And to grab a copy of Alena's latest book "CFO of the Future:
https://www.alenabennett.com.au/books
And to reach out to Alena:
www.alenabennett.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/alenabennett/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and WINATM: Can Companies Burn Out
03:00 Introduction to David Gunn
05:42 The Meaning Behind 'No Risk, No Biscuit'
08:56 David's Career Journey and Mindset on Risk15:18 The Current Business Landscape and Risk
18:03 Defining Resilience and Strategic Risk
22:29 Creating a Culture of Smart Risk at Xero
28:23 Demonstrating the Value of Risk Management
29:44 Introducing Risk in Innovative Environments
34:39 The Importance of Language and Positivity in Risk Management
38:42 Creating Value Through Strategic Conversations
41:36 Common Sense vs. Common Practice in Risk Management
47:14 Closing Thoughts: The Journey of Risk Management
49:00 Listener Question and Close
As a bit of a teaser for our inaugural season, check out this clip where Alena shares her thought provoking question from episode one.What are your thoughts? Do you think a business can burn out?The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.