Michael Grundon, founder of Indigenous workwear company Gawun, joins Queensland Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb to share how family, culture, and purpose laid the foundations for his business journey. From a powerful moment at a school assembly to building one of Australia’s leading First Nations suppliers of custom high-vis apparel, Michael discusses how Gawun is creating space for cultural connection in the corporate and construction sectors. He also reflects on the importance of community, integrity in business, and the role of face-to-face networking in building a sustainable and values-driven enterprise. Covered in this episode: Michael’s motivation to launch Gawun and reconnect with culture. The impact of storytelling and cultural education. Why aligning with the right people and values is non-negotiable. The importance of building strong business foundations over fast scaling. Navigating business as an introvert and learning to network with purpose. Tips for connecting with and supporting First Nations businesses. What the “Murray grapevine” means for First Nations entrepreneurship. Michael’s mantra: family, community and remembering your purpose. Time-Stamped Highlights 00:30 – Dominique introduces Michael Grundon and the story of Gawun 01:00 – Michael explains the meaning behind Gawun and his cultural roots 02:15 – How a daughter’s school presentation sparked a deeper cultural reconnection 04:55 – Michael discusses his journey to create a purposeful business 06:45 – From workwear to cultural tours: how Gawun evolved its offerings 08:00 – The confronting history of Cherbourg and its lasting impact 09:25 – Connecting corporates to country: the power of immersive education 11:11 – The challenges of networking as an introvert—and how to push through 13:00 – Why family and values matter more than flashy business growth 15:11 – Michael’s advice: prioritise connection and in-person engagement 16:56 – How corporates can find and work with First Nations businesses 20:00 – Closing the gap through economic participation and wealth building 21:45 – Social enterprise in action: giving back through business 22:16 – A heartfelt wrap-up: gratitude, connection, and community uplift About Our Guest Michael Grundon is the proud founder of Gawun, a 100% Indigenous-owned company delivering custom workwear and cultural education programs. A proud Kabi Kabi, Wakka Wakka and Coa man, Michael’s work bridges business and culture—offering corporate wear adorned with Indigenous art, and leading cultural immersion tours and yarning circles that connect people to Country and truth. Gawun means “caring for,” and Michael lives this ethos daily through his work, family, and advocacy. 🔗 Gawun Supplies Website🔗 Connect with Michael on LinkedIn 💡 Key Takeaways Culture is purpose: Michael's journey reminds us that identity and tradition can inspire and sustain business success. Authenticity matters: Gawun doesn't compromise on values—even if that means walking away from profit. Support networks are everything: Michael's family and mentors helped shape his path and kept him going during challenging times. Small connections lead to big impact: From networking events to introductions, building a network is vital. There's a First Nations business for everything: Corporates need to look, listen, and be genuine in their procurement. 🔗 Links and Resources Gawun Supplies Queensland Small Business Commissioner Michael Grundon on LinkedIn Dominique Lamb on LinkedIn We’d love to hear from you! Send your comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.

In this episode of Small Business Big Stories, Julia Spicer OAM, founder of Engage and Create Consulting and former Chief Entrepreneur of Queensland, shares her inspiring journey of building sustainable businesses and vibrant communities in rural Australia. Julia joins Queensland Small Business Commissioner, Dominique Lamb, to discuss the art of regional entrepreneurship, resilience in business, and the unique challenges and opportunities found outside city centers. Highlighting the importance of local networks, financial literacy, and strategic planning, Julia provides insightful advice on how businesses can thrive regardless of their location. Plus, Julia introduces "The Connection Table," an innovative platform promoting regional diversity in leadership and decision-making roles. Key Topics and Themes Starting a business from necessity during a drought The unique power and potential of regional entrepreneurship Overcoming logistical and financial challenges in remote areas The critical role of networks, visibility, and storytelling Creating viable and vibrant communities through strategic consulting Succession planning in non-agricultural rural businesses Building The Connection Table to amplify regional voices in leadership   About Our Guest Julia Spicer OAM is a rural business strategist, community builder, and founder of Engage and Create Consulting. With a passion for sustainable regional growth, Julia has helped hundreds of small businesses and not-for-profits thrive. She also co-founded The Connection Table, a national platform advocating for greater regional representation in leadership. Julia served as Queensland’s Chief Entrepreneur and is celebrated for her relentless drive, practical wisdom, and commitment to local impact. Key Takeaways Start with the skills you already have: Julia’s business began with her recognising and leveraging her workshop and project management experience. Success isn’t always scale: For Julia, financial stability and local impact matter more than growing a team of 50. Resilience is regional: Overcoming illness, drought, and remoteness, Julia demonstrates that strong networks and purpose-driven work make all the difference. Financial literacy and planning matter: Understanding your finances and planning for succession are crucial for long-term viability. Diverse voices, better decisions: With The Connection Table, Julia is amplifying regional leadership to shape better policies and outcomes. Links and Resources Engage and Create Consulting Julia Spicer Julia on LinkedIn Instagram: @juliaspicer.oam Queensland Small Business Commissioner Contact: mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au  Time-Stamped Key Points 00:05 – Introduction to Julia Spicer and her unexpected fact: 67 free-range guinea pigs! 01:13 – How Engage and Create Consulting started in drought-stricken Goondiwindi 02:59 – Julia’s first brush with business: building a consulting arm inside a not-for-profit 04:30 – Lessons from a childhood on the farm during tough times 05:22 – Advice for launching a business in remote areas 06:46 – Why rural and urban business challenges are more similar than they seem 07:40 – The $200,000 gap: regional entrepreneurs face more cost and time to launch 09:00 – Defining success without needing to scale just for scale’s sake 10:35 – Creating local jobs by hiring women with underutilised skills 12:13 – Julia’s battle with breast cancer and the resilience of her network 14:49 – Julia’s essential tips for all business owners 16:40 – The importance of financial literacy and early succession planning 17:55 – How to successfully start a consulting business in a rural area 19:25 – Julia’s business mantra: viable and vibrant communities 20:14 – The Connection Table: fostering regional diversity in decision-making 21:12 – Final reflections and call to action from Dominique 🎧 Don’t miss this inspiring and practical episode filled wi

Ash Ivory, founder of Ivory Common and self-described “fractional CPO,” shares their unique journey from scaling and maximising product offerings to founding a business that helps others do the same. In this episode, Ash and Queensland Small Business Commissioner, Dominique Lamb, dive into the art of product strategy, the psychology of business decisions, and the hard realities of running your own consultancy. Ash’s passion for neurodiversity, real-talk about cash flow pressures, and her approach to business coaching through radical honesty shine through. With deep insights into startup culture, customer discovery, and the emotional toll of entrepreneurship, Ash offers listeners a fresh perspective on building meaningful and resilient businesses—plus a surprising crossover with Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Covered in this episode:· Ash’s journey from startup product lead to founder of Ivory Common.· What it means to be a "fractional CPO" and how Ash supports founders.· How to define success in unexpected moments.· The emotional cost of entrepreneurship, including impacts on personal life.· Using outcomes over features when designing products or services.· Why customer feedback is essential—and how to gather it.· The importance of coachability and knowing when to “sack your clients.”· Getting started with AI tools like ChatGPT for business efficiency.· Ash’s business mantra: “Words Matter”—the interplay between language and action.· A shared love for Taylor Swift (and a debate about best tracks). Check out Ivory Common. We'd love to hear from you! Send your comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.   #SmallBusinessBigStories, #IvoryCommon, #ProductStrategy, #FractionalCPO, #NeurodiversityInBusiness, #TaylorSwiftBusiness, #AIForSmallBusiness

Shaun 'Zoro' Radnedge, owner of Dunnes Meats and Mayor of Murweh Shire Council, shares his unique journey from apprentice butcher to small business owner and local government leader. This episode explores Zoro’s experience running a successful butcher shop in Charleville for over 25 years while also serving his community as Mayor. Zoro discusses the challenges of operating a small business in rural Queensland, including weathering droughts and floods, finding and retaining staff, and adapting to changing times. From extending business hours to prioritizing quality and customer service, Zoro offers valuable insights on business resilience, community engagement, and the importance of support for small businesses in regional areas. His experiences highlight the critical role of small businesses as the "beating heart of Australia" and the unexpected paths that can lead to both business success and public service. Covered in this episode:  The origin story: Zoro’s journey from apprentice butcher to owning Dunnes Meats in Charleville.  The challenges and opportunities of buying and rebranding a small business in a rural town.  Strategies for differentiating a business in a competitive small-town market.  The importance of quality products and customer service in retaining customers.  Approaches to finding and retaining staff in a rural area, including "growing your own" through apprenticeships. Sean's transition into local politics. The importance of community support and engagement for small business success.  Insights on business resilience and adapting to changing circumstances.  The need for support and resources for small businesses in remote, rural, and regional  Queensland.  Time-Stamped Key Moments •00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest: Sean “Zoro” Radnidge. •00:01 – Zoro’s journey: From apprentice butcher to owning Dunn Meats. •00:02 – The challenge of acquiring a business after a decade away. •00:03 – Small changes, big impact: Extending business hours to capture the after-work crowd. •00:04 – Competing in a small-town market: What makes Dunn Meats stand out? •00:06 – Finding and training staff in a rural setting. •00:07 – Family business or succession planning? The future of Dunn Meats. •00:09 – Entering politics: Why Zoro ran for mayor. •00:12 – The crucial role of community support in business success. •00:13 – Zoro’s advice for small business owners facing tough times. •00:14 – The biggest challenges for small businesses in regional Queensland. •00:15 – Zoro’s mantra: “Pleased to meet you with the meat to please you.” We'd love to hear from you! Send your comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.  

Ghis Gallo, manager of The Crystal Caves in Atherton, shares the remarkable story of how a passion for crystals evolved into a unique retail and tourism experience. This episode explores the journey of The Crystal Caves from its humble beginnings as a small shop in 1983 to becoming a must-visit destination in North Queensland. Ghis discusses the challenges of running a family business, the importance of customer experience, and the evolution of their marketing approach. From building man-made caves to showcase crystal collections to adapting to changing customer needs, Ghis offers valuable insights on creating memorable experiences, staff management, and leveraging support in the tourism industry. Her experiences highlight the critical role of embracing uniqueness, continual innovation, and maintaining a genuine connection with customers in retail success. Covered in this episode: The origin story: How Rene’s passion for crystals led to the founding of Crystal Caves in 1983. The evolution from a small shop to a large-scale retail and experiential destination. The creation of the unique "cave" experience and its impact on the business and local tourism. Challenges of marketing a niche experience in a location off the beaten tourist path. Strategies for continually updating and improving the customer experience. The joy of seeing generational visits and creating lasting memories for customers. The benefits and freedoms of running a family-owned business. Tips for small businesses on creating magical experiences and memorable customer interactions. Approaches to staff management and fostering individual strengths within the team. The value of engaging with industry support and resources, particularly in the tourism sector. We'd love to hear from you! Send your comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.

Karagh-Mae ‘Kaz’ Kelly, founder of Doggy Day Care Brisbane, shares her journey from RSPCA inspector and border force handler to successful entrepreneur. This episode explores how Kaz built a holistic doggy daycare business that goes beyond basic pet sitting. Kaz candidly discusses the challenges of starting and scaling a business, the importance of community engagement, and navigating the complexities of being a value-driven female business owner. From building professional networks to managing empathic staff, Kaz offers valuable insights on leadership, community involvement, and political engagement in the small business landscape. Her experiences highlight the critical role of purpose-driven leadership, community connection, and the importance of defining personal success in business. Covered in this episode:  The origin story: Kaz's background in animal welfare and the founding of Doggy Day Care Brisbane.  The holistic approach to doggy daycare.  The importance of community engagement and how it shapes business strategy.  Diversifying services in response to community needs and staff expertise.  The challenges and benefits of having a strong voice as a small business owner in the community.  The role of personal values and morals in shaping business decisions and brand identity.  Challenges of managing staff, particularly in an industry attracting empathic individuals.  The importance of self-care and maintaining strong friendships as a business owner.  Experiences with scaling the business and the subsequent decision to downsize.  Reflections on the relationship between growth and success in small business.  The intersection of politics and business, and the importance of taking stands on social issues.  Tips for new business owners on getting involved in their local community.  The importance of finding the right size for your business that aligns with your life goals. Insights on creating a value-led business and the impact on customer relationships. About Our Guest Karagh-Mae ‘Kaz’ Kelly Kaz Kelly is the founder of Doggy Daycare Brisbane, located in West End. With a professional background as an RSPCA inspector and border force handler, Kaz brought her expertise and passion for animals to small business ownership. Her commitment to community, social justice, and purpose-led entrepreneurship sets her apart. When not running Doggy Daycare, she’s actively involved in local advocacy, writing for the West Ender, and campaigning for better community resources. Key Takeaways Engage with Your Community: Your neighbours and local groups are your greatest advocates. Stay True to Your Values: A clear moral compass can attract like-minded customers and build lasting loyalty. Reflect on Growth: Scaling isn’t always the answer; define what success looks like for your life and business. Lead with Empathy: Managing a team requires understanding individual strengths and communication styles. Purpose-Driven Business: Politics and business can intersect to create meaningful change and connection. Links and Resources Doggy Daycare Brisbane: Website | Instagram West Ender: Articles by Kaz Kelly Animal Justice Party: Learn More We'd love to hear from you! Send your comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.

In this inspiring episode of QSBC, host Dom chats with Scott Millar, founder of BOP Industries, a young entrepreneur transforming the way Gen Z approaches business, education, and innovation. Scott shares his journey from launching a simple keychain business as a teenager to running an international educational enterprise. He discusses the need for creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability in the future workforce and reveals his unique approach to mentorship, team leadership, and intergenerational collaboration. This episode is packed with insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, educators, and business owners, highlighting Scott’s commitment to responsible innovation and his powerful mantra: “Great things never come from comfort zones.”

Holly Hunt, founder of Hunt & Co and Women in Digital, shares her journey from HR graduate to successful entrepreneur. This episode explores how Holly built a boutique digital recruitment agency and a national membership organization for women in tech. Holly candidly discusses the challenges of starting a business, the importance of mentorship, and navigating gender dynamics in male-dominated industries. From building professional networks to retaining talent in small businesses, Holly offers valuable insights on leadership, diversity, and adaptation in the evolving digital landscape. Her experiences highlight the critical role of community, purpose-driven leadership, and embracing diversity in business success. Covered in this episode: The origin story: Holly's background in HR and international business, and the founding of Hunt Co and Women in Digital. Challenges faced by women in the tech industry and the decision to create a support network. The transition from a side hustle to a full-time business and the importance of family support. Strategies for small businesses to attract and retain talent in a competitive market. The significance of company values and purpose in employee retention and business growth. Building and maintaining professional networks, both joining existing ones and creating new communities. The role of collaboration in business success and Holly's approach to partnerships. Addressing the "boys club" mentality and the importance of diversity in male-dominated industries. The value of diversity in product development, innovation, and market expansion. Balancing multiple business ventures and intentionally allocating time and resources. Insights on creating inclusive workplaces and the benefits of diverse teams. Tips for small business owners on finding their tribe and starting their own networks. Reflections on the challenges and opportunities for women business owners in tech-related fields. Links from the episode Women in Digital: Women in Digital Events & Memberships Meetup: Meetup Networking Platform Hunt Co Recruitment: Hunt & Co Bespoken PR Agency: Bespoken PR Services We'd love to hear from you! Send your comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.

Kay Tommerup, from Tommerup’s Dairy Farm in Queensland's Scenic Rim, shares the remarkable journey of her family's 150-year-old farm. This episode explores how their traditional dairy operation transformed into a thriving agritourism destination. Kay candidly discusses the challenges of diversification, the importance of authenticity in business, and how embracing change saved their farm from financial ruin. From weathering natural disasters to navigating family dynamics, Kay offers valuable insights on adapting to market changes, succession planning, and staying true to your values in business.    Covered in this episode: The origin story: The 150-year history of Tommerup’s Dairy farm and its transition from traditional dairy farming to agritourism. Challenges faced in the dairy industry at large and the decision to diversify. The impact of inviting visitors onto a family farm and the importance of maintaining authenticity. Dealing with natural disaster and how tourism helped sustain the farm. The value of community support and networking among farmers in times of crisis. Unexpected opportunities arising from diversification. Navigating family dynamics and overcoming resistance to change from older generations. The process of succession planning and bringing the next generation into the business. The importance of education and training when transitioning into agritourism. Insights on branding, understanding your values, and staying true to your business identity. Tips for small business owners considering diversification or major changes in their operations.   We'd love to hear from you! Send your comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au   Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.

Arif Memis, founder of Cowch Dessert Cocktail Bar, is an entrepreneur who transformed a dessert concept into a popular Queensland restaurant chain before facing liquidation. In this candid episode, Arif shares his journey from ambitious start-up to business collapse. His story is a powerful lesson in risk management, the importance of seeking proper advice, and redefining success beyond business achievements. From navigating the emotional toll of business failure to rebuilding his life post-bankruptcy, Arif offers invaluable insights for small business owners on balancing innovation with stability, recognising when to step back, and the critical importance of work-life balance and the courage required to know when to exit a failing venture.   Covered in this episode:   The origin story: A frozen yoghurt franchise store becomes Cowch Dessert Cocktail Bar and finds a gap in the market. Diversification risks: How starting with debt can lead to a cycle of chasing growth to pay it off.  The rise and fall of the business: Location choices, COVID, supply chain issues and an unsuccessful production facility leading to administration and bankruptcy.  Seeking proper advice: Who to contact if you’re business is in trouble, and the importance of consulting with the right experts. Risk management: The importance of balancing innovation with stability, cautioning against unchecked risk-taking. Work-life balance: The personal cost of neglecting family for business. Arif’s key advice for risk taking founders in business. Grieving a business and mental health awareness. Finding a new job after business closure. Resilience and reinvention: Arif’s mantra for life and business, and what the future holds.    We’d love to hear from you! Send your comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au   Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.

Yasmin Grigaliunas, founder of Circonomy, is an entrepreneur who turned a charity garage sale into a thriving circular economy business. In this candid episode, Yasmin shares her journey from corporate success to start-up struggles, including the challenges of running a business while navigating a divorce. Her story is a masterclass in resilience, innovative problem-solving, and redefining success on her own terms. From designing her own divorce management strategy to successfully raising capital as a female founder, Yasmin offers invaluable insights for entrepreneurs facing personal and professional challenges.  Covered in this episode: The origin story: Leaving behind a successful corporate career to start the charity World’s Biggest Garage Sale.  How World’s Biggest Garage Sale grew into Circonomy, a business rescuing and reselling idle/damaged goods from major retailers. Hard lessons learnt from being an early innovator. How to be the most coachable founder.   Becoming a solo founder, marriage counselling, and divorcing your business partner.  Designing a strong divorce strategy. Top tips for someone going through a divorce and trying to retain their business.  Top tips for raising capital as a female founder.  Yasmin’s mantra for business. We’d love to hear from you! Send or comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au   Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.

Clarissa Rayward has two small businesses; Brisbane Family Law Centre and a membership model education platform called Happy Lawyer Happy Life. She is a legal business innovator, who has mastered the art of challenging conventional wisdom, building purposeful businesses and sensible scaling. In this episode we hear her business origin story, and her actionable advice for other small business owners, from rethinking timesheets, to productising like the Wiggles; you don’t need to be a lawyer to get golden business and life advice from Clarissa. Covered in this episode: Business #1 Origin Story: Starting the Brisbane Family Law Centre. Being different in a traditional profession. Digital marketing for lawyers. Burnout, and the path forward. Answering the big question: What does it take to be happy in law?  Starting Business #2:  Happy Lawyer Happy Life. Mental Health and getting off the small business hamster wheel.  How to be purposeful in business. The art of saying ’No’. How to scale sensibly.  Clarissa’s top tip for sole practitioners. Productising your business and uncapping income. Managing a bad risk profile when starting a business.  Clarissa’s Mantra for business.   We’d love to hear from you! Send or comments and business questions to mailbag@qsbc.qld.gov.au   Small Business Big Stories is produced by Queensland Small Business Commissioner and The Podcast Boss.