60 acast.com <![CDATA[What I learned in business (that didn't kill me!)]]> https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me en James H Stewart Business,Turnaround,Management,Crisis Management,Retail,Consumer,Leadership,Australia,Asia,Europe,North America James H Stewart The inside story of success, failure, and leadership, when it matters most. Have you ever wondered why some businesses go broke and others are successful? Have you ever wondered why some leaders rise to the top in difficult situations?


For 40 years I was a corporate undertaker. I buried businesses that failed and helped save those where there was still a pulse.


I was parachuted into some of corporate Australia’s biggest financial crisis, insolvencies and turnaround environments. I have been in Board rooms, Court rooms and on shop floors when all seems lost (and sometimes it was).


Over decades at the coal face of business (often in the most difficult circumstances), I have seen & heard stories that delighted and inspired me, as well as those which serve as a guide of the path not to take.


I also spent years in leadership roles at Ferrier Hodgson and KPMG Australia where I sat on the Board and was the National Consumer and Retail leader.


The purpose of What I learned about Business (that didn’t kill me!) is to share the stories behind some of the world's most interesting business situations, how they unfolded, how my guests dealt with them, and how those experiences changed them and the way they do business.


I hope that my podcast entertains and engages listeners who want to know more about the worlds great business leaders and the lessons that didn’t kill them…….

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Have you ever wondered why some businesses go broke and others are successful? Have you ever wondered why some leaders rise to the top in difficult situations?


For 40 years I was a corporate undertaker. I buried businesses that failed and helped save those where there was still a pulse.


I was parachuted into some of corporate Australia’s biggest financial crisis, insolvencies and turnaround environments. I have been in Board rooms, Court rooms and on shop floors when all seems lost (and sometimes it was).


Over decades at the coal face of business (often in the most difficult circumstances), I have seen & heard stories that delighted and inspired me, as well as those which serve as a guide of the path not to take.


I also spent years in leadership roles at Ferrier Hodgson and KPMG Australia where I sat on the Board and was the National Consumer and Retail leader.


The purpose of What I learned about Business (that didn’t kill me!) is to share the stories behind some of the world's most interesting business situations, how they unfolded, how my guests dealt with them, and how those experiences changed them and the way they do business.


I hope that my podcast entertains and engages listeners who want to know more about the worlds great business leaders and the lessons that didn’t kill them…….

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> false James Stewart info+68c8d9069445f7a95104183c@mg-eu.acast.com 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me episodic https://assets.pippa.io/shows/cover/1757989586689-5ec7fadd-958d-4f32-b41a-87024b76e51a.jpeg https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me <![CDATA[What I learned in business (that didn't kill me!)]]> Angus Raine: Housing Affordability Crisis. Angus Raine: Housing Affordability Crisis. Mon, 20 Apr 2026 19:00:00 GMT 40:53 69df314180c1f20b2b1c3ed9 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/angus-raine 69df314180c1f20b2b1c3ed9 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c angus-raine full 1 24 The Australian residential housing market is unaffordable for many. It is being impacted by a perfect storm of a supply demand imbalance, rising construction costs, a fuel crisis, and a planning system which many argue needs wholesale reform.


To hear more, I sit down with Angus Raine, Executive Chairman of Raine & Horne — one of Australia’s oldest and most enduring family businesses to get his perspective on Australia's housing crisis and what it takes to build a sustainable, intergenerational family business.


Founded in 1883 and now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Raine & Horne has navigated more than a century of market cycles — from booms and busts to wars and recessions — and today operates at scale across Australia and international markets.


In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore both the evolution of a multi-generational family enterprise and the realities of Australia’s housing market.


We cover:

  • The 140-year journey of Raine & Horne and how succession has been successfully managed across generations.
  • How to avoid ego, groupthink and capability gaps in family businesses.
  • The current state of Australia’s residential property market.
  • The housing affordability crisis — and the key drivers behind it, from supply constraints to migration, tax settings and construction costs.
  • Major planning reforms, including recent high-density development changes in Victoria.
  • The rise of institutional capital and the build-to-rent sector.
  • How technology, data and AI are reshaping the real estate agency model.
  • The concept of regional "rentvesting" and how that may make property ownership accessible to a generation of Australians.


This episode is proudly brought to you by the Family Business Association in Australia and New Zealand. Whether you’re an investor, business leader, or part of a family enterprise, this is a practical and insightful discussion on markets, leadership and long-term thinking.


Disclaimer:

This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal or professional advice. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host. You should seek appropriate professional advice before making any financial or investment decisions.


Connect with me:

Website: https://jameshstewart.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Australian residential housing market is unaffordable for many. It is being impacted by a perfect storm of a supply demand imbalance, rising construction costs, a fuel crisis, and a planning system which many argue needs wholesale reform.


To hear more, I sit down with Angus Raine, Executive Chairman of Raine & Horne — one of Australia’s oldest and most enduring family businesses to get his perspective on Australia's housing crisis and what it takes to build a sustainable, intergenerational family business.


Founded in 1883 and now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Raine & Horne has navigated more than a century of market cycles — from booms and busts to wars and recessions — and today operates at scale across Australia and international markets.


In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore both the evolution of a multi-generational family enterprise and the realities of Australia’s housing market.


We cover:

  • The 140-year journey of Raine & Horne and how succession has been successfully managed across generations.
  • How to avoid ego, groupthink and capability gaps in family businesses.
  • The current state of Australia’s residential property market.
  • The housing affordability crisis — and the key drivers behind it, from supply constraints to migration, tax settings and construction costs.
  • Major planning reforms, including recent high-density development changes in Victoria.
  • The rise of institutional capital and the build-to-rent sector.
  • How technology, data and AI are reshaping the real estate agency model.
  • The concept of regional "rentvesting" and how that may make property ownership accessible to a generation of Australians.


This episode is proudly brought to you by the Family Business Association in Australia and New Zealand. Whether you’re an investor, business leader, or part of a family enterprise, this is a practical and insightful discussion on markets, leadership and long-term thinking.


Disclaimer:

This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal or professional advice. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host. You should seek appropriate professional advice before making any financial or investment decisions.


Connect with me:

Website: https://jameshstewart.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Merriden Varrall: China, Trump & the New World Order.]]> Mon, 13 Apr 2026 19:00:00 GMT 49:03 69d89a4800eb02bda1ec6254 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/merriden-varrall 69d89a4800eb02bda1ec6254 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c merriden-varrall full 1 23 Geopolitics now sits at the centre of business decision-making.


My guest is Dr Merriden Varrall, one of Australia’s leading geopolitical analysts and China specialists, and the founder and CEO of Vantage Geopol.


Merriden brings a rare combination of academic depth, policy experience, and commercial advisory insight. She has spent nearly a decade living and working in China, held senior roles with the United Nations Development Programme in Beijing, led the East Asia Program at the Lowy Institute, and now advises boards and executives on how global political shifts impact strategy, risk, and long-term investment decisions.


In this conversation, we explore:

  • How China actually sees the world — and why Western analysis often gets it wrong
  • The evolution of geopolitics from a fringe issue to a top-three boardroom risk
  • The impact of leadership and political disruption on global stability
  • The fragmentation of the global economic order and the growing importance of energy, climate policy, and critical minerals
  • Practical advice for business leaders navigating geopolitical uncertainty


This is a deep and timely discussion on one of the most important forces shaping the global economy — and what it means for decision-makers today.



🔗 Connect with James

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9

Website: https://jameshstewart.com



⚠️ Disclaimer

The information, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guest and are provided for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, investment, or other professional advice. This podcast is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, decision-making in relation to any investment, business, or strategic matter. Listeners should seek appropriate professional advice tailored to their individual circumstances. While reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, no representation or warranty is made as to its completeness or reliability, and no liability is accepted for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this content.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Geopolitics now sits at the centre of business decision-making.


My guest is Dr Merriden Varrall, one of Australia’s leading geopolitical analysts and China specialists, and the founder and CEO of Vantage Geopol.


Merriden brings a rare combination of academic depth, policy experience, and commercial advisory insight. She has spent nearly a decade living and working in China, held senior roles with the United Nations Development Programme in Beijing, led the East Asia Program at the Lowy Institute, and now advises boards and executives on how global political shifts impact strategy, risk, and long-term investment decisions.


In this conversation, we explore:

  • How China actually sees the world — and why Western analysis often gets it wrong
  • The evolution of geopolitics from a fringe issue to a top-three boardroom risk
  • The impact of leadership and political disruption on global stability
  • The fragmentation of the global economic order and the growing importance of energy, climate policy, and critical minerals
  • Practical advice for business leaders navigating geopolitical uncertainty


This is a deep and timely discussion on one of the most important forces shaping the global economy — and what it means for decision-makers today.



🔗 Connect with James

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9

Website: https://jameshstewart.com



⚠️ Disclaimer

The information, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guest and are provided for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, investment, or other professional advice. This podcast is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, decision-making in relation to any investment, business, or strategic matter. Listeners should seek appropriate professional advice tailored to their individual circumstances. While reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, no representation or warranty is made as to its completeness or reliability, and no liability is accepted for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this content.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Mark Raddan: CEO Interpath Advisory. Mark Raddan: CEO Interpath Advisory. Mon, 23 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT 38:57 69b0b8a5c36fc2d58b38d8cf false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/mark-raddan 69b0b8a5c36fc2d58b38d8cf 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c mark-raddan full 1 22 What happens when one of the UK’s largest companies collapses—and takes trust in the entire UK audit profession with it?


In this episode, I sit down with Mark Raddan, CEO of Interpath Advisory and former KPMG UK Senior Partner and Board member, to unpack the fallout from the Carillion collapse and how it fundamentally reshaped the UK turnaround and restructuring profession.


Carillion employed more than 40,000 people and delivered critical public infrastructure across the UK. But in 2018, it collapsed under the weight of debt, aggressive accounting, and failing contracts—triggering parliamentary inquiries, regulatory backlash, and record fines for KPMG.


What followed wasn’t just the failure of a company—it was a structural reset of the entire profession in the UK. Regulators moved to address conflicts of interest within the Big Four, ultimately forcing KPMG to sell its restructuring business.


That carve-out became Interpath Advisory—a new, independent firm backed by private equity and now operating as one of the large independent global turnaround and restructuring firms.


Mark was at the centre of that transition.


In this conversation, we cover:

  • The Carillion collapse and the consequences that followed.
  • The impact on KPMG UK and the wider profession
  • Why the Big Four were forced to rethink their business models
  • The creation and rapid growth of Interpath Advisory
  • How private equity is reshaping the professional services model
  • The future of restructuring, advisory, and the impact of AI

This is a rare, insider perspective on how crisis, regulation and capital combined to create an entirely new competitive landscape in global advisory.


⚠️ Disclaimer

This podcast is for information and general discussion purposes only.


The views expressed by guests are their own and do not constitute financial, legal, investment or professional advice. Nothing in this episode should be relied upon as a recommendation or advice to make any business, financial or investment decision. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content is based on publicly available information and personal perspectives, which may be incomplete or subject to change. Listeners should seek their own independent professional advice before acting on any matters discussed.

🔗 Connect with James

Follow the podcast for more conversations on business, leadership, crisis and recovery.

Connect with me on LinkedIn:

👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9

or at my website:

👉 https://jameshstewart.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What happens when one of the UK’s largest companies collapses—and takes trust in the entire UK audit profession with it?


In this episode, I sit down with Mark Raddan, CEO of Interpath Advisory and former KPMG UK Senior Partner and Board member, to unpack the fallout from the Carillion collapse and how it fundamentally reshaped the UK turnaround and restructuring profession.


Carillion employed more than 40,000 people and delivered critical public infrastructure across the UK. But in 2018, it collapsed under the weight of debt, aggressive accounting, and failing contracts—triggering parliamentary inquiries, regulatory backlash, and record fines for KPMG.


What followed wasn’t just the failure of a company—it was a structural reset of the entire profession in the UK. Regulators moved to address conflicts of interest within the Big Four, ultimately forcing KPMG to sell its restructuring business.


That carve-out became Interpath Advisory—a new, independent firm backed by private equity and now operating as one of the large independent global turnaround and restructuring firms.


Mark was at the centre of that transition.


In this conversation, we cover:

  • The Carillion collapse and the consequences that followed.
  • The impact on KPMG UK and the wider profession
  • Why the Big Four were forced to rethink their business models
  • The creation and rapid growth of Interpath Advisory
  • How private equity is reshaping the professional services model
  • The future of restructuring, advisory, and the impact of AI

This is a rare, insider perspective on how crisis, regulation and capital combined to create an entirely new competitive landscape in global advisory.


⚠️ Disclaimer

This podcast is for information and general discussion purposes only.


The views expressed by guests are their own and do not constitute financial, legal, investment or professional advice. Nothing in this episode should be relied upon as a recommendation or advice to make any business, financial or investment decision. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content is based on publicly available information and personal perspectives, which may be incomplete or subject to change. Listeners should seek their own independent professional advice before acting on any matters discussed.

🔗 Connect with James

Follow the podcast for more conversations on business, leadership, crisis and recovery.

Connect with me on LinkedIn:

👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9

or at my website:

👉 https://jameshstewart.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Adam Posner: What's the Point of Loyalty?]]> Mon, 09 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT 57:26 699f8110f5ae85b4a2a58635 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/adam-posner 699f8110f5ae85b4a2a58635 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c adam-posner Why Joyalty, Belief, Behaviour and Belonging matter in customer relationships full 1 21 What is customer loyalty — really?


Is it points? Discounts? Retention metrics? Or is it something deeper?


In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), I sit down with Adam Posner, founder of The Point of Loyalty, host of the What’s the Point of Loyalty? podcast, and author of For Love or Money™ — one of Australia’s longest-running loyalty research studies, spanning nearly two decades and 18 editions.


But before Adam became a loyalty strategist, his life gave him a very different education. Growing up in Johannesburg during apartheid, living through conscription into national service, surviving a terrorist car bomb explosion, and emigrating to Australia to start again from scratch — Adam’s worldview was shaped long before he ever designed a loyalty program.


From walking the streets delivering scratch-and-save cards into letterboxes, to building a direct marketing agency and ultimately pivoting into customer research and loyalty strategy, Adam has spent nearly 20 years asking a deceptively simple question:

What actually makes customers stay?


In this conversation, we explore:

  • Why loyalty is about Behaviour, Belief and Belonging
  • The importance of retail response when the customer experience disappoints loyalty
  • Why customer loyalty and trust are closely connected
  • Why the world needs a “Pandemic of Joy” — and what Adam calls Joyalty
  • How AI and agentic technology may redefine brand–customer relationships


This episode is a masterclass in what Adam calls “the finance of feelings” — the commercial power of emotion in a data-driven world.


If you lead a brand, manage customer strategy, sit on a board, or simply care about how businesses build trust — this one is for you.

Disclaimer

The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individual guest and host and do not constitute financial, legal, investment, marketing or professional advice.

This podcast is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Any discussion of brands, loyalty programs, corporate events or data breaches reflects publicly available information and personal opinion at the time of recording. Listeners should conduct their own independent enquiries and seek appropriate professional advice before making any commercial or strategic decisions.

This episode is not a promotional platform and no endorsement of any organisation or product is intended or implied.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What is customer loyalty — really?


Is it points? Discounts? Retention metrics? Or is it something deeper?


In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), I sit down with Adam Posner, founder of The Point of Loyalty, host of the What’s the Point of Loyalty? podcast, and author of For Love or Money™ — one of Australia’s longest-running loyalty research studies, spanning nearly two decades and 18 editions.


But before Adam became a loyalty strategist, his life gave him a very different education. Growing up in Johannesburg during apartheid, living through conscription into national service, surviving a terrorist car bomb explosion, and emigrating to Australia to start again from scratch — Adam’s worldview was shaped long before he ever designed a loyalty program.


From walking the streets delivering scratch-and-save cards into letterboxes, to building a direct marketing agency and ultimately pivoting into customer research and loyalty strategy, Adam has spent nearly 20 years asking a deceptively simple question:

What actually makes customers stay?


In this conversation, we explore:

  • Why loyalty is about Behaviour, Belief and Belonging
  • The importance of retail response when the customer experience disappoints loyalty
  • Why customer loyalty and trust are closely connected
  • Why the world needs a “Pandemic of Joy” — and what Adam calls Joyalty
  • How AI and agentic technology may redefine brand–customer relationships


This episode is a masterclass in what Adam calls “the finance of feelings” — the commercial power of emotion in a data-driven world.


If you lead a brand, manage customer strategy, sit on a board, or simply care about how businesses build trust — this one is for you.

Disclaimer

The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individual guest and host and do not constitute financial, legal, investment, marketing or professional advice.

This podcast is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Any discussion of brands, loyalty programs, corporate events or data breaches reflects publicly available information and personal opinion at the time of recording. Listeners should conduct their own independent enquiries and seek appropriate professional advice before making any commercial or strategic decisions.

This episode is not a promotional platform and no endorsement of any organisation or product is intended or implied.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Anne Laure Descours: The Invisible Engine of Global Retail Anne Laure Descours: The Invisible Engine of Global Retail Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT 55:43 6992668cb0cb4fc2fdb1e939 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/anne-laure-descours 6992668cb0cb4fc2fdb1e939 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c anne-laure-descours full 1 20 Everyone talks about sustainable retail products and saving the planet, but who really cares? Retailers? Customers? Government?


The global retail sourcing & supply chain is invisible to most consumers, yet it is one of the most complex, highly integrated and culturally nuanced business ecosystems in the world.


James H Stewart sits down with Anne-Laure Descours, one of the world’s most senior and respected leaders in global sourcing and sustainable manufacturing in the footwear and apparel industry.


Anne-Laure spent more than three decades in the engine room of global retail — living and working across China, Vietnam, Bangladesh and Hong Kong — and ultimately serving as Chief Sourcing Officer of PUMA, overseeing the manufacturing and supply-chain operations that power an €8+ billion global brand.


Before PUMA, she held senior leadership roles at Li & Fung, the legendary Hong Kong-based sourcing powerhouse that helped shape modern global manufacturing.


Since leaving PUMA in 2025, Anne-Laure has continued her work in responsible supply chains, joining the board of Gildan Activewear (owner of American Apparel) and serving as an advisor and board member to Haelixa, a Swiss innovator in DNA-based traceability solutions for fashion and textiles.


In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore:

  • What global supply chains actually look like behind the scenes
  • The realities of sustainable sourcing across Asia
  • Cultural intelligence and leadership under pressure
  • The role of government and regulation in driving changes to sourcing models and sustainability reporting
  • Why end of life products are the biggest unsolved hurdle for sustainable manufacturing - and this goes to the heart of consumer demand.
  • How DNA tracing is reshaping sourcing transparency
  • What three decades in high-stakes global operations teaches you about resilience and trust

This is a rare, inside-the-system perspective from someone who has led through crisis, transformation and geopolitical disruption — at scale.



🔎 Connect

James H Stewart is a former KPMG restructuring partner and Australian Board member who interviews global leaders about the hard lessons they’ve learned in business — and survived.

Connect with James:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameshstewart/

Website: https://jameshstewart.com



⚠️ Disclaimer

This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of their past or present employers, affiliated organisations, or the host. Nothing discussed in this episode constitutes financial, investment, legal, regulatory or professional advice. Listeners should seek appropriate independent advice before making any commercial or investment decisions. All commentary is based on publicly available information and personal experience at the time of recording.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Everyone talks about sustainable retail products and saving the planet, but who really cares? Retailers? Customers? Government?


The global retail sourcing & supply chain is invisible to most consumers, yet it is one of the most complex, highly integrated and culturally nuanced business ecosystems in the world.


James H Stewart sits down with Anne-Laure Descours, one of the world’s most senior and respected leaders in global sourcing and sustainable manufacturing in the footwear and apparel industry.


Anne-Laure spent more than three decades in the engine room of global retail — living and working across China, Vietnam, Bangladesh and Hong Kong — and ultimately serving as Chief Sourcing Officer of PUMA, overseeing the manufacturing and supply-chain operations that power an €8+ billion global brand.


Before PUMA, she held senior leadership roles at Li & Fung, the legendary Hong Kong-based sourcing powerhouse that helped shape modern global manufacturing.


Since leaving PUMA in 2025, Anne-Laure has continued her work in responsible supply chains, joining the board of Gildan Activewear (owner of American Apparel) and serving as an advisor and board member to Haelixa, a Swiss innovator in DNA-based traceability solutions for fashion and textiles.


In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore:

  • What global supply chains actually look like behind the scenes
  • The realities of sustainable sourcing across Asia
  • Cultural intelligence and leadership under pressure
  • The role of government and regulation in driving changes to sourcing models and sustainability reporting
  • Why end of life products are the biggest unsolved hurdle for sustainable manufacturing - and this goes to the heart of consumer demand.
  • How DNA tracing is reshaping sourcing transparency
  • What three decades in high-stakes global operations teaches you about resilience and trust

This is a rare, inside-the-system perspective from someone who has led through crisis, transformation and geopolitical disruption — at scale.



🔎 Connect

James H Stewart is a former KPMG restructuring partner and Australian Board member who interviews global leaders about the hard lessons they’ve learned in business — and survived.

Connect with James:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameshstewart/

Website: https://jameshstewart.com



⚠️ Disclaimer

This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of their past or present employers, affiliated organisations, or the host. Nothing discussed in this episode constitutes financial, investment, legal, regulatory or professional advice. Listeners should seek appropriate independent advice before making any commercial or investment decisions. All commentary is based on publicly available information and personal experience at the time of recording.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Ian Robson: Premierships & Pressure points. Sport in the Spotlight]]> Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:00:00 GMT 54:26 6982d435b331d49efc03c8f3 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/ian-robson 6982d435b331d49efc03c8f3 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c ian-robson full 1 19

Ian Robson is one of the most experienced and battle-tested sports administrators in Australia.


At just 32 years old, with no prior CEO experience, Ian was appointed Chief Executive of the New Zealand Warriors, building the club ahead of its entry into top-tier rugby league.


From there, his career spans:

  • CEO of Hawthorn Football Club during its rebuild and 2008 premiership
  • CEO of Essendon Football Club during the supplements saga
  • CEO of Melbourne Victory during A-League success
  • CEO of Rowing Australia, navigating Olympic sport, funding pressures and global competition
  • Leadership roles in UK sport, including CEO of Sport Scotland


Today, Ian is CEO of the iconic Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club, long associated with the Australian Open.


Across rugby league, AFL, soccer, Olympic sport and government-funded systems, Ian has seen the intersection of culture, governance, pressure and public accountability at the highest levels.



What we cover in this episode

  • Building a professional sports club from scratch in New Zealand
  • The Hawthorn rebuild and the 2008 AFL premiership
  • The Essendon supplements saga — what happened, how it unfolded, and the lessons learned
  • Governance failures, salary cap breaches and the cost of cutting corners
  • Drugs in professional sport — performance enhancing and recreational
  • Gambling, match fixing and player welfare
  • Racism, tribalism and sexual diversity in elite sport
  • The difference between running a football club and leading a taxpayer-funded Olympic sport


This is not a highlight reel. It’s a serious conversation about leadership when the stakes are public and the consequences are generational.



Disclaimer

This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the participants at the time of recording and do not constitute legal, financial, medical or professional advice. Discussions about historical events, investigations and sporting matters are based on publicly available information. Listeners should form their own views and seek independent advice where appropriate.


If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate and share the podcast.



You can connect with me, James H. Stewart (GAICD), via LinkedIn or at www.jameshstewart.com.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>

Ian Robson is one of the most experienced and battle-tested sports administrators in Australia.


At just 32 years old, with no prior CEO experience, Ian was appointed Chief Executive of the New Zealand Warriors, building the club ahead of its entry into top-tier rugby league.


From there, his career spans:

  • CEO of Hawthorn Football Club during its rebuild and 2008 premiership
  • CEO of Essendon Football Club during the supplements saga
  • CEO of Melbourne Victory during A-League success
  • CEO of Rowing Australia, navigating Olympic sport, funding pressures and global competition
  • Leadership roles in UK sport, including CEO of Sport Scotland


Today, Ian is CEO of the iconic Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club, long associated with the Australian Open.


Across rugby league, AFL, soccer, Olympic sport and government-funded systems, Ian has seen the intersection of culture, governance, pressure and public accountability at the highest levels.



What we cover in this episode

  • Building a professional sports club from scratch in New Zealand
  • The Hawthorn rebuild and the 2008 AFL premiership
  • The Essendon supplements saga — what happened, how it unfolded, and the lessons learned
  • Governance failures, salary cap breaches and the cost of cutting corners
  • Drugs in professional sport — performance enhancing and recreational
  • Gambling, match fixing and player welfare
  • Racism, tribalism and sexual diversity in elite sport
  • The difference between running a football club and leading a taxpayer-funded Olympic sport


This is not a highlight reel. It’s a serious conversation about leadership when the stakes are public and the consequences are generational.



Disclaimer

This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the participants at the time of recording and do not constitute legal, financial, medical or professional advice. Discussions about historical events, investigations and sporting matters are based on publicly available information. Listeners should form their own views and seek independent advice where appropriate.


If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate and share the podcast.



You can connect with me, James H. Stewart (GAICD), via LinkedIn or at www.jameshstewart.com.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Simon Toohey: Masterchef to Market Maker Simon Toohey: Masterchef to Market Maker Mon, 16 Feb 2026 18:00:00 GMT 37:27 6983ba2d1976ad1237f2545b false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/simon-toohey 6983ba2d1976ad1237f2545b 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c simon-toohey A conversation about Food culture, Food startups and the Masterchef experience full 1 18 MasterChef finalist, television host and food entrepreneur Simon Toohey, is this week's guest.


Many Australians know Simon from MasterChef Australia (Season 11 and “Back to Win”) or from his SBS series Freshly Picked. But behind the television profile is a far more layered story — one that spans cocktail bars in London, a Masters in Gastronomy in Edinburgh, plant-forward food innovation, pop-up smokehouses, consulting internationally, and now launching the fast-growing Geelong City Market, attracting thousands of visitors every Saturday.


We discuss:


  • Growing up in a food-loving family and learning to cook when independence forced it
  • Working in London hospitality, including at globally recognised bar Callooh Callay
  • Why he chose plant-forward cooking as his point of difference
  • The reality of competing on MasterChef — the pressure, structure and exposure
  • Building a media brand through Freshly Picked on SBS
  • Launching the Geelong City Market — vision, business case, government support, and startup challenges
  • What he has learned about entrepreneurship in the food industry
  • The hard days, the pivots, and the principles he anchors to



This is a conversation about food — but also about reinvention, resilience, public profile, sustainability, and backing yourself when you see a gap in the market.


If you are interested in food systems, food startups, media, or building a purpose-driven career, this episode is for you.


About the Show



What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) explores the real stories behind business leaders, founders and professionals — the successes, the setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way.


Disclaimer


The views expressed by guests are their own and are shared for general informational purposes only. This podcast does not constitute financial, legal, investment or professional advice. Listeners should seek appropriate independent advice before making business or financial decisions.




If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show and share it with someone who might find value in it.


You can connect with me via:


LinkedIn: James H Stewart GAICD

Website: www.jameshstewart.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> MasterChef finalist, television host and food entrepreneur Simon Toohey, is this week's guest.


Many Australians know Simon from MasterChef Australia (Season 11 and “Back to Win”) or from his SBS series Freshly Picked. But behind the television profile is a far more layered story — one that spans cocktail bars in London, a Masters in Gastronomy in Edinburgh, plant-forward food innovation, pop-up smokehouses, consulting internationally, and now launching the fast-growing Geelong City Market, attracting thousands of visitors every Saturday.


We discuss:


  • Growing up in a food-loving family and learning to cook when independence forced it
  • Working in London hospitality, including at globally recognised bar Callooh Callay
  • Why he chose plant-forward cooking as his point of difference
  • The reality of competing on MasterChef — the pressure, structure and exposure
  • Building a media brand through Freshly Picked on SBS
  • Launching the Geelong City Market — vision, business case, government support, and startup challenges
  • What he has learned about entrepreneurship in the food industry
  • The hard days, the pivots, and the principles he anchors to



This is a conversation about food — but also about reinvention, resilience, public profile, sustainability, and backing yourself when you see a gap in the market.


If you are interested in food systems, food startups, media, or building a purpose-driven career, this episode is for you.


About the Show



What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) explores the real stories behind business leaders, founders and professionals — the successes, the setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way.


Disclaimer


The views expressed by guests are their own and are shared for general informational purposes only. This podcast does not constitute financial, legal, investment or professional advice. Listeners should seek appropriate independent advice before making business or financial decisions.




If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show and share it with someone who might find value in it.


You can connect with me via:


LinkedIn: James H Stewart GAICD

Website: www.jameshstewart.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Andrew Love: Surrounded by Liars and Thieves Andrew Love: Surrounded by Liars and Thieves Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:00:00 GMT 44:25 698173eb7455a33159ac7438 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/andrew-love 698173eb7455a33159ac7438 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c andrew-love full 1 17 The collapse of Rothwells Bank in late 1988 signalled the beginning of the end for WA inc.


In this episode, James H Stewart sits down with Andrew J Love, one of Australia’s most experienced former restructuring advisers and non-executive directors, for a deep dive on the collapse of Rothwells Bank and the beginning of the end for WA Inc in the late 1980's.


Andrew spent nearly three decades as a senior partner at Ferrier Hodgson, and at just 34 years old, found himself advising the Western Australian Premier, Peter Dowding during one of the most politically charged and financially catastrophic episodes of the WA Inc era.


Rothwells, was a merchant bank controlled by Laurie Connell, was authorised to take deposits from the public and ultimately collapsed owing enormous sums to creditors — many of them everyday “mum and dad” investors. The failure became a defining moment in Australian corporate and political history, and a formative experience for Andrew’s approach to risk, governance and transparency.


The discussion traces how that baptism of fire shaped Andrew’s career — from leading mining restructurings, to stepping into boardrooms across mining, oil and gas, property, aged care and infrastructure.


Andrew also reflects on his time as Director of multiple companies in the ming sector through volatile commodity cycles, offering candid insights into why boards fail, how cycles repeat, and what experienced directors learn to watch for.


The conversation also takes an unexpected but revealing turn into the world of modern art. Andrew shares how he and his wife Amanda became deeply involved in the contemporary art community, including his time as Chair of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, and how the diversity of the modern art community help shape his thinking in the boardroom.


This episode is a masterclass in lived experience — from advising governments in moments of crisis, to navigating boardrooms through boom and bust, and understanding why humility, scepticism and independence of thought matter more than ever in business.




⚠️ Important Disclaimer

This podcast is provided for general information and discussion purposes only. The views expressed by the host and guest are personal in nature and reflect individual experiences at the time. Nothing in this episode constitutes, or should be relied upon as, legal, financial, investment, accounting or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making any decisions based on matters discussed in this podcast.

Any references to historical events, companies or individuals are based on publicly available information and personal recollections, and are shared for educational purposes only.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The collapse of Rothwells Bank in late 1988 signalled the beginning of the end for WA inc.


In this episode, James H Stewart sits down with Andrew J Love, one of Australia’s most experienced former restructuring advisers and non-executive directors, for a deep dive on the collapse of Rothwells Bank and the beginning of the end for WA Inc in the late 1980's.


Andrew spent nearly three decades as a senior partner at Ferrier Hodgson, and at just 34 years old, found himself advising the Western Australian Premier, Peter Dowding during one of the most politically charged and financially catastrophic episodes of the WA Inc era.


Rothwells, was a merchant bank controlled by Laurie Connell, was authorised to take deposits from the public and ultimately collapsed owing enormous sums to creditors — many of them everyday “mum and dad” investors. The failure became a defining moment in Australian corporate and political history, and a formative experience for Andrew’s approach to risk, governance and transparency.


The discussion traces how that baptism of fire shaped Andrew’s career — from leading mining restructurings, to stepping into boardrooms across mining, oil and gas, property, aged care and infrastructure.


Andrew also reflects on his time as Director of multiple companies in the ming sector through volatile commodity cycles, offering candid insights into why boards fail, how cycles repeat, and what experienced directors learn to watch for.


The conversation also takes an unexpected but revealing turn into the world of modern art. Andrew shares how he and his wife Amanda became deeply involved in the contemporary art community, including his time as Chair of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, and how the diversity of the modern art community help shape his thinking in the boardroom.


This episode is a masterclass in lived experience — from advising governments in moments of crisis, to navigating boardrooms through boom and bust, and understanding why humility, scepticism and independence of thought matter more than ever in business.




⚠️ Important Disclaimer

This podcast is provided for general information and discussion purposes only. The views expressed by the host and guest are personal in nature and reflect individual experiences at the time. Nothing in this episode constitutes, or should be relied upon as, legal, financial, investment, accounting or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making any decisions based on matters discussed in this podcast.

Any references to historical events, companies or individuals are based on publicly available information and personal recollections, and are shared for educational purposes only.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Christo Van Egmond: The School of Rock! Christo Van Egmond: The School of Rock! Mon, 02 Feb 2026 18:00:00 GMT 40:32 6976c3c779d88bc8eea9b47c false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/christo-van-egmond 6976c3c779d88bc8eea9b47c 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c christo-van-egmond An inside look into the live entertainment business and artists such as ACDC, Prince, and Andrea Bocelli full 1 16 Christo Van Egmond — Inside the Business of Live Music


ACDC is one of the worlds biggest rock bands.


So what does it really take to bring the world’s biggest artists to Australia?


In this episode James Stewart goes inside the live-entertainment industry with Christo Van Egmond, Managing Director of TEG Van Egmond, one of Australia’s most influential concert promoters.


Christo quite literally grew up in the music business — selling merchandise for the Moscow Circus at eight years old, spending time around global artists such as Dire Straits and INXS as a child, and learning the craft alongside his father, the late Garry Van Egmond, a legendary promoter who helped shape modern touring in Australia.


Christo lifts the curtain on an industry most of us only ever experience from the audience — revealing the commercial realities, financial risks and leadership judgement required to make live entertainment work at scale.




In this episode, we explore:

  • How the live-entertainment business actually works — promoters, agents, artists and venues
  • Why promoters are often “betting the house” before a single ticket is sold
  • The impact of private-equity ownership on live entertainment
  • How technology, data and AI are reshaping touring and audience engagement
  • Artist anecdotes, industry insights and the risks that paid off
  • The leadership lessons Christo has learned along the way — including what he’d tell his younger self




⚠️ Disclaimer

This podcast is for general information and discussion purposes only.


The views and opinions expressed by the host and guest are their own and do not constitute financial, legal, investment or professional advice. Any references to companies, transactions, artists, tours or commercial arrangements are illustrative only and should not be relied upon as advice. Listeners should seek independent professional advice before making any decisions based on the content of this episode.





🔗 Connect with the show

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate and share What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me).

To connect with James Stewart, visit:

🔹 LinkedIn: James H Stewart GAICD

🔹 Website: www.jameshstewart.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Christo Van Egmond — Inside the Business of Live Music


ACDC is one of the worlds biggest rock bands.


So what does it really take to bring the world’s biggest artists to Australia?


In this episode James Stewart goes inside the live-entertainment industry with Christo Van Egmond, Managing Director of TEG Van Egmond, one of Australia’s most influential concert promoters.


Christo quite literally grew up in the music business — selling merchandise for the Moscow Circus at eight years old, spending time around global artists such as Dire Straits and INXS as a child, and learning the craft alongside his father, the late Garry Van Egmond, a legendary promoter who helped shape modern touring in Australia.


Christo lifts the curtain on an industry most of us only ever experience from the audience — revealing the commercial realities, financial risks and leadership judgement required to make live entertainment work at scale.




In this episode, we explore:

  • How the live-entertainment business actually works — promoters, agents, artists and venues
  • Why promoters are often “betting the house” before a single ticket is sold
  • The impact of private-equity ownership on live entertainment
  • How technology, data and AI are reshaping touring and audience engagement
  • Artist anecdotes, industry insights and the risks that paid off
  • The leadership lessons Christo has learned along the way — including what he’d tell his younger self




⚠️ Disclaimer

This podcast is for general information and discussion purposes only.


The views and opinions expressed by the host and guest are their own and do not constitute financial, legal, investment or professional advice. Any references to companies, transactions, artists, tours or commercial arrangements are illustrative only and should not be relied upon as advice. Listeners should seek independent professional advice before making any decisions based on the content of this episode.





🔗 Connect with the show

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate and share What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me).

To connect with James Stewart, visit:

🔹 LinkedIn: James H Stewart GAICD

🔹 Website: www.jameshstewart.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Anastasia Pelot: Inside the Mind of Gen Z & Gen A.]]> Mon, 19 Jan 2026 18:00:00 GMT 55:09 693214f9a63c6eaa591f1078 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/anastasia-pelot 693214f9a63c6eaa591f1078 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c anastasia-pelot full 1 15 In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), James Stewart explores one of the most important and misunderstood challenges facing leaders, employers, marketers and boards today: how to understand and engage the next generations of consumers and workers—Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

James is joined by Anastasia Pelot, founder of House of Context and a youth-culture strategist who helps organisations decode how young people think, behave, buy and communicate. Raised across Kenya, Greece, Germany, Syria and Lebanon before moving to the United States at 15, Anastasia brings a rare global and cultural lens to the question of identity, belonging and generational change.

The conversation begins with Anastasia’s extraordinary upbringing as a Third Culture Kid (TCK), the cultural shock of settling in the US as a teenager, and how those experiences shaped her sensitivity to identity formation, emotional safety and belonging—themes that sit at the heart of her work today.

James and Anastasia then dive deep into the real differences—and overlaps—between Gen Z and Gen Alpha, cutting through stereotypes and simplistic labels. Anastasia explains why she views youth not as a “segment” but as a signal—an early indicator of where culture, leadership, work and consumer behaviour are heading next.

Key themes explored include:

  • Why dividing young people strictly into Gen Z versus Gen Alpha can obscure deeper behavioural patterns
  • Gen Z as the first generation to experience “public adolescence” online, and the self-protective instincts that emerged as a result
  • Gen Alpha as a more AI-native, immersive and sensory-driven cohort
  • How young people form identity, relationships and belonging in an algorithmic world
  • The headwinds and tailwinds shaping youth development today, from mental health pressures to economic uncertainty

From there, the discussion shifts to a business and consumer lens, examining what authenticity really means to younger generations, how brands succeed—or fail—when engaging them, and why traditional measures of loyalty often miss what actually matters: community, participation, advocacy and influence.

The episode also looks forward, exploring how emerging technologies such as AI, augmented and virtual reality, digital avatars and immersive platforms are reshaping expectations—and what businesses should be doing now to remain relevant.

Finally, James and Anastasia discuss Australia’s new laws restricting access to social media for under-16s from December 2025, the potential cultural consequences, and how Gen Alpha in particular may adapt to a more regulated digital environment.

This is a wide-ranging, practical and thought-provoking conversation for anyone trying to understand the future of leadership, marketing, culture and commerce—and the generations who will define it.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This podcast is provided for general information and discussion purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the host and guest are their own and do not constitute financial, legal, investment, regulatory or professional advice. Listeners should not rely on the information discussed in this episode as a substitute for independent advice tailored to their specific circumstances. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of recording, no representations are made as to the completeness or ongoing accuracy of the information.

🔗 Connect with the Show

To learn more about the podcast, access episode notes, or explore upcoming guests, visit jameshstewart.com.

You can also connect with James on LinkedIn at James H Stewart GAICD.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), James Stewart explores one of the most important and misunderstood challenges facing leaders, employers, marketers and boards today: how to understand and engage the next generations of consumers and workers—Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

James is joined by Anastasia Pelot, founder of House of Context and a youth-culture strategist who helps organisations decode how young people think, behave, buy and communicate. Raised across Kenya, Greece, Germany, Syria and Lebanon before moving to the United States at 15, Anastasia brings a rare global and cultural lens to the question of identity, belonging and generational change.

The conversation begins with Anastasia’s extraordinary upbringing as a Third Culture Kid (TCK), the cultural shock of settling in the US as a teenager, and how those experiences shaped her sensitivity to identity formation, emotional safety and belonging—themes that sit at the heart of her work today.

James and Anastasia then dive deep into the real differences—and overlaps—between Gen Z and Gen Alpha, cutting through stereotypes and simplistic labels. Anastasia explains why she views youth not as a “segment” but as a signal—an early indicator of where culture, leadership, work and consumer behaviour are heading next.

Key themes explored include:

  • Why dividing young people strictly into Gen Z versus Gen Alpha can obscure deeper behavioural patterns
  • Gen Z as the first generation to experience “public adolescence” online, and the self-protective instincts that emerged as a result
  • Gen Alpha as a more AI-native, immersive and sensory-driven cohort
  • How young people form identity, relationships and belonging in an algorithmic world
  • The headwinds and tailwinds shaping youth development today, from mental health pressures to economic uncertainty

From there, the discussion shifts to a business and consumer lens, examining what authenticity really means to younger generations, how brands succeed—or fail—when engaging them, and why traditional measures of loyalty often miss what actually matters: community, participation, advocacy and influence.

The episode also looks forward, exploring how emerging technologies such as AI, augmented and virtual reality, digital avatars and immersive platforms are reshaping expectations—and what businesses should be doing now to remain relevant.

Finally, James and Anastasia discuss Australia’s new laws restricting access to social media for under-16s from December 2025, the potential cultural consequences, and how Gen Alpha in particular may adapt to a more regulated digital environment.

This is a wide-ranging, practical and thought-provoking conversation for anyone trying to understand the future of leadership, marketing, culture and commerce—and the generations who will define it.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This podcast is provided for general information and discussion purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the host and guest are their own and do not constitute financial, legal, investment, regulatory or professional advice. Listeners should not rely on the information discussed in this episode as a substitute for independent advice tailored to their specific circumstances. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of recording, no representations are made as to the completeness or ongoing accuracy of the information.

🔗 Connect with the Show

To learn more about the podcast, access episode notes, or explore upcoming guests, visit jameshstewart.com.

You can also connect with James on LinkedIn at James H Stewart GAICD.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Andrew Yates: CEO KPMG Australia Andrew Yates: CEO KPMG Australia Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:00:00 GMT 53:12 692f540f042629ee0e468f6f false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/andrew-yates 692f540f042629ee0e468f6f 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c andrew-yates full 1 14 Big 4 accounting firms are never far from the spotlight.


In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), James Stewart sits down with Andrew Yates, CEO of KPMG Australia, to explore what it really takes to lead one of the country’s largest and most scrutinised professional-services firms.

Andrew oversees more than 10,000 people including c.800 partners across Australia, Papua New Guinea and Fiji, and manages some of the most complex audit, assurance and advisory relationships in the country, including Westpac, ANZ, Macquarie Bank, Qantas, IAG, Sydney Airport, Perpetual and the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Before stepping into the CEO role, Andrew led KPMG’s national audit and risk consulting practice, worked in Hong Kong and New York, and guided audit engagements at the highest levels of corporate Australia. On Day 1 as CEO, he made headlines by introducing 26 weeks of fully paid parental leave for every new parent, signalling a bold stance on culture, inclusion and purpose.

In this candid conversation, Andrew and James unpack:

  • Andrew’s early years, his love of cricket — and the truth behind his nickname “The Kettle”
  • How his international experience shaped his leadership philosophy
  • The transition from audit leader to CEO in a partnership model where you lead your peers
  • The inside story of managing culture and cohesion across a 10,000-person organisation
  • How KPMG responded to the PwC Australia tax scandal and the sector-wide scrutiny that followed
  • The heavy regulatory environment the Big 4 operate in — including Royal Commissions, Senate inquiries, ASIC oversight and global regulators
  • The future of audit vs non-audit services, and the UK’s “operational separation” model
  • The impact of AI and emerging technologies on professional-services firms — structurally, commercially and culturally

A wide-ranging conversation with a leader who “likes to bowl straight at the stumps,” this episode offers a rare, inside view of the pressures, decisions and opportunities shaping the future of the professional-services industry.

Disclaimer.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not represent the views, positions or policies of any organisations they are associated with, including KPMG Australia.

Nothing in this episode is intended to constitute financial, legal, professional or other advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice relevant to their circumstances. All discussion is for general information and educational purposes only.

Connect.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jameshstewart

Website: www.jameshstewart.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Big 4 accounting firms are never far from the spotlight.


In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), James Stewart sits down with Andrew Yates, CEO of KPMG Australia, to explore what it really takes to lead one of the country’s largest and most scrutinised professional-services firms.

Andrew oversees more than 10,000 people including c.800 partners across Australia, Papua New Guinea and Fiji, and manages some of the most complex audit, assurance and advisory relationships in the country, including Westpac, ANZ, Macquarie Bank, Qantas, IAG, Sydney Airport, Perpetual and the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Before stepping into the CEO role, Andrew led KPMG’s national audit and risk consulting practice, worked in Hong Kong and New York, and guided audit engagements at the highest levels of corporate Australia. On Day 1 as CEO, he made headlines by introducing 26 weeks of fully paid parental leave for every new parent, signalling a bold stance on culture, inclusion and purpose.

In this candid conversation, Andrew and James unpack:

  • Andrew’s early years, his love of cricket — and the truth behind his nickname “The Kettle”
  • How his international experience shaped his leadership philosophy
  • The transition from audit leader to CEO in a partnership model where you lead your peers
  • The inside story of managing culture and cohesion across a 10,000-person organisation
  • How KPMG responded to the PwC Australia tax scandal and the sector-wide scrutiny that followed
  • The heavy regulatory environment the Big 4 operate in — including Royal Commissions, Senate inquiries, ASIC oversight and global regulators
  • The future of audit vs non-audit services, and the UK’s “operational separation” model
  • The impact of AI and emerging technologies on professional-services firms — structurally, commercially and culturally

A wide-ranging conversation with a leader who “likes to bowl straight at the stumps,” this episode offers a rare, inside view of the pressures, decisions and opportunities shaping the future of the professional-services industry.

Disclaimer.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not represent the views, positions or policies of any organisations they are associated with, including KPMG Australia.

Nothing in this episode is intended to constitute financial, legal, professional or other advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice relevant to their circumstances. All discussion is for general information and educational purposes only.

Connect.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jameshstewart

Website: www.jameshstewart.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Jim Sarantinos: Parramatta Eels. No easy try. Jim Sarantinos: Parramatta Eels. No easy try. Wed, 07 Jan 2026 18:00:00 GMT 49:15 69252f9d365dc3dd9c4e684d false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/jim-sarantinos 69252f9d365dc3dd9c4e684d 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c jim-sarantinos full 1 13 The Parramatta Eels are of Australia's Iconic sporting clubs.


In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), James H Stewart sits down with Jim Sarantinos, CEO of the Parramatta Eels, one of the most passionately supported and closely scrutinised rugby league clubs in Australian sport.

Before taking the reins at the Eels, Jim spent two decades at Ferrier Hodgson, helping navigate some of Australia’s most complex restructures — including Rick Damelian Group, Dick Smith Electronics, Topshop Australia, and Steinhoff Australia during its global financial challenges.

But perhaps his most defining challenge came in 2016, when the Eels faced one of the biggest governance crises in NRL history — board sackings, salary cap breaches, and a club community in turmoil. Working alongside Ferrier Hodgson legend Max Donnelly, Jim helped rebuild trust, governance and transparency — lessons that continue to shape the club today.

His story is also deeply personal. In his early thirties, Jim was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Surviving that experience reshaped his outlook on life, leadership and what truly matters — lessons that echo across every part of this conversation.

From crisis management to culture, and from chemotherapy to comeback, this is a conversation about resilience, accountability and the power of second chances — in business and in life.


Highlights

  • What corporate turnarounds can teach sporting organisations about leadership and accountability
  • Inside the Eels’ 2016 governance crisis and the rebuild of its foundations
  • How surviving cancer changed Jim’s leadership perspective
  • The continuing challenge of turning potential into performance at a professional sporting club

Connect

For more episodes, visit jameshstewart.com

Connect on LinkedIn: James H Stewart GAICD

Follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen.


Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational and general discussion purposes only. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not represent the views of any organisation, past or present. Nothing discussed should be taken as financial, legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own professional guidance before acting on any information contained in this episode.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Parramatta Eels are of Australia's Iconic sporting clubs.


In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), James H Stewart sits down with Jim Sarantinos, CEO of the Parramatta Eels, one of the most passionately supported and closely scrutinised rugby league clubs in Australian sport.

Before taking the reins at the Eels, Jim spent two decades at Ferrier Hodgson, helping navigate some of Australia’s most complex restructures — including Rick Damelian Group, Dick Smith Electronics, Topshop Australia, and Steinhoff Australia during its global financial challenges.

But perhaps his most defining challenge came in 2016, when the Eels faced one of the biggest governance crises in NRL history — board sackings, salary cap breaches, and a club community in turmoil. Working alongside Ferrier Hodgson legend Max Donnelly, Jim helped rebuild trust, governance and transparency — lessons that continue to shape the club today.

His story is also deeply personal. In his early thirties, Jim was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Surviving that experience reshaped his outlook on life, leadership and what truly matters — lessons that echo across every part of this conversation.

From crisis management to culture, and from chemotherapy to comeback, this is a conversation about resilience, accountability and the power of second chances — in business and in life.


Highlights

  • What corporate turnarounds can teach sporting organisations about leadership and accountability
  • Inside the Eels’ 2016 governance crisis and the rebuild of its foundations
  • How surviving cancer changed Jim’s leadership perspective
  • The continuing challenge of turning potential into performance at a professional sporting club

Connect

For more episodes, visit jameshstewart.com

Connect on LinkedIn: James H Stewart GAICD

Follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen.


Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational and general discussion purposes only. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not represent the views of any organisation, past or present. Nothing discussed should be taken as financial, legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own professional guidance before acting on any information contained in this episode.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Anna Samkova: Customer Strategy, Loyalty and Behaviour Anna Samkova: Customer Strategy, Loyalty and Behaviour Sun, 04 Jan 2026 18:00:00 GMT 55:53 692f9e1fd6bc23eda21d7e83 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/anna-samkova 692f9e1fd6bc23eda21d7e83 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c anna-samkova A journey of resilience from Ukraine to becoming a leader in customer loyalty full 1 12 From surviving a devastating car accident in Ukraine to becoming one of Australia’s most influential thinkers in customer loyalty and digital strategy — this is the extraordinary journey of Anna Samkova.

Born outside Kiev and raised in Odessa during the final years of the Soviet era, Anna grew up behind the Iron Curtain. At 20, she survived a serious accident that required multiple surgeries and left doctors unsure whether she would ever have children. Three years later, she migrated to Australia, unable to speak English and holding a degree that wasn’t recognised — only to find herself unexpectedly pregnant and unsure she could carry her baby to term.

What follows is a story of grit, reinvention and unbreakable determination.

Anna learned English while raising her daughter, studying marketing, working her first job at Ozito Tools and running her own health and wellness centre. She went on to design one of Australia’s earliest large-scale loyalty programs at Dodo Internet, before joining American Bank Note to help retailers nationwide shape customer behaviour and loyalty from the ground up.

In 2011 she joined the PAS Group — home to Review, Black Pepper, Yarra Trail, JETS and more — eventually becoming Head of Digital and Loyalty for almost a decade. She later continued in this role with Brand Collective after PAS was acquired out of Voluntary Administration, giving her rare insight into customer loyalty during periods of severe financial distress and organisational change.

Today, as Co-Founder of Albany Advisory, Anna helps boards and CEOs transform customer strategy, behavioural insight and digital capability into sustainable competitive advantage.

In this episode we explore:

  • Growing up behind the Iron Curtain and how it shaped her worldview
  • Surviving a life-altering accident and rebuilding her life
  • Migrating to Australia with no English and no safety net
  • Juggling study, work, motherhood and entrepreneurship
  • Building loyalty from scratch at Dodo Internet
  • A decade driving digital transformation at PAS Group
  • What happens to customer loyalty during Voluntary Administration
  • The future of loyalty in an AI-driven world
  • The difference between customer strategy, behaviour and loyalty

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, customer insight and the psychology of loyalty in a world defined by disruption and digital acceleration.

Disclaimer.

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not represent the views, policies or positions of any companies, boards or organisations referenced. Nothing in this podcast should be taken as financial, strategic, legal or professional advice. Listeners should always seek their own independent advice before making decisions relating to business, investment or governance.

Connect with me.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> From surviving a devastating car accident in Ukraine to becoming one of Australia’s most influential thinkers in customer loyalty and digital strategy — this is the extraordinary journey of Anna Samkova.

Born outside Kiev and raised in Odessa during the final years of the Soviet era, Anna grew up behind the Iron Curtain. At 20, she survived a serious accident that required multiple surgeries and left doctors unsure whether she would ever have children. Three years later, she migrated to Australia, unable to speak English and holding a degree that wasn’t recognised — only to find herself unexpectedly pregnant and unsure she could carry her baby to term.

What follows is a story of grit, reinvention and unbreakable determination.

Anna learned English while raising her daughter, studying marketing, working her first job at Ozito Tools and running her own health and wellness centre. She went on to design one of Australia’s earliest large-scale loyalty programs at Dodo Internet, before joining American Bank Note to help retailers nationwide shape customer behaviour and loyalty from the ground up.

In 2011 she joined the PAS Group — home to Review, Black Pepper, Yarra Trail, JETS and more — eventually becoming Head of Digital and Loyalty for almost a decade. She later continued in this role with Brand Collective after PAS was acquired out of Voluntary Administration, giving her rare insight into customer loyalty during periods of severe financial distress and organisational change.

Today, as Co-Founder of Albany Advisory, Anna helps boards and CEOs transform customer strategy, behavioural insight and digital capability into sustainable competitive advantage.

In this episode we explore:

  • Growing up behind the Iron Curtain and how it shaped her worldview
  • Surviving a life-altering accident and rebuilding her life
  • Migrating to Australia with no English and no safety net
  • Juggling study, work, motherhood and entrepreneurship
  • Building loyalty from scratch at Dodo Internet
  • A decade driving digital transformation at PAS Group
  • What happens to customer loyalty during Voluntary Administration
  • The future of loyalty in an AI-driven world
  • The difference between customer strategy, behaviour and loyalty

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, customer insight and the psychology of loyalty in a world defined by disruption and digital acceleration.

Disclaimer.

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not represent the views, policies or positions of any companies, boards or organisations referenced. Nothing in this podcast should be taken as financial, strategic, legal or professional advice. Listeners should always seek their own independent advice before making decisions relating to business, investment or governance.

Connect with me.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Nishan Wijemanne: From Start Up to Shiperoo! Nishan Wijemanne: From Start Up to Shiperoo! Tue, 09 Dec 2025 18:00:00 GMT 50:07 692e0e791fc8491a7b87a102 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/nishan-wijemanne 692e0e791fc8491a7b87a102 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c nishan-wijemanne full 1 11 From escaping civil war in Sri Lanka at just six years old, to building one of the most successful automation start-ups in Australia and New Zealand, Nishan Wijemanne has lived a business journey defined by resilience, reinvention and relentless curiosity.

In this episode, we trace Nishan’s extraordinary path — from his early years in Christchurch, to his foundational training at Dematic, one of the world’s largest logistics automation companies, and then to founding Cohesio Group. Cohesio quickly became a market leader, securing major clients such as The Reject Shop, Kmart and Wesfarmers’ Officeworks, and forging a groundbreaking partnership with Chinese robotics giant Geek+, before being acquired by German technology conglomerate Körber in 2019.

Nishan then teamed up again with long-time collaborator Rizan Mawzoon to launch Shiperoo in 2023 — a next-generation fulfilment and returns platform using robotics, automation and a modern tech stack to give retail brands an Amazon-level customer experience without becoming Amazon themselves. Today, Shiperoo is backed by Australia Post, and supported by industry leaders including John King, Paul Greenberg and Gary Starr.

We unpack the lessons Nishan learned building and selling Cohesio, the turning point that made him realise the returns economy was the next frontier of ecommerce logistics, and his views on the future of AI, automation and robotics in global supply chains.

Whether you’re in retail, ecommerce, logistics, robotics or leadership — or you simply enjoy stories of grit and ambition — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

⚠️ Strong Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host, James H Stewart, or the production team behind What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!). This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute business, financial, investment or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions based on the content of this episode. All business examples, company references and personal experiences are presented in good faith and are based on publicly available information or the guest’s personal account. No responsibility is taken for any errors, omissions or changes in factual circumstances after the date of recording.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> From escaping civil war in Sri Lanka at just six years old, to building one of the most successful automation start-ups in Australia and New Zealand, Nishan Wijemanne has lived a business journey defined by resilience, reinvention and relentless curiosity.

In this episode, we trace Nishan’s extraordinary path — from his early years in Christchurch, to his foundational training at Dematic, one of the world’s largest logistics automation companies, and then to founding Cohesio Group. Cohesio quickly became a market leader, securing major clients such as The Reject Shop, Kmart and Wesfarmers’ Officeworks, and forging a groundbreaking partnership with Chinese robotics giant Geek+, before being acquired by German technology conglomerate Körber in 2019.

Nishan then teamed up again with long-time collaborator Rizan Mawzoon to launch Shiperoo in 2023 — a next-generation fulfilment and returns platform using robotics, automation and a modern tech stack to give retail brands an Amazon-level customer experience without becoming Amazon themselves. Today, Shiperoo is backed by Australia Post, and supported by industry leaders including John King, Paul Greenberg and Gary Starr.

We unpack the lessons Nishan learned building and selling Cohesio, the turning point that made him realise the returns economy was the next frontier of ecommerce logistics, and his views on the future of AI, automation and robotics in global supply chains.

Whether you’re in retail, ecommerce, logistics, robotics or leadership — or you simply enjoy stories of grit and ambition — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

⚠️ Strong Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host, James H Stewart, or the production team behind What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!). This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute business, financial, investment or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions based on the content of this episode. All business examples, company references and personal experiences are presented in good faith and are based on publicly available information or the guest’s personal account. No responsibility is taken for any errors, omissions or changes in factual circumstances after the date of recording.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Bruce Carter AO: Harris Scarfe. Elders. Whyalla. Crown Resorts Bruce Carter AO: Harris Scarfe. Elders. Whyalla. Crown Resorts Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:00:00 GMT 58:04 691f90243962bb012e3067a4 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/bruce-carter 691f90243962bb012e3067a4 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c bruce-carter full 1 10 Bruce Carter AO is one of Australia’s most respected commercial advisors and arguably South Australia’s “Mr Fix-It”. Over more than three decades, Bruce has become the person governments, boards and business leaders call when the stakes are high and commercial pragmatism is in demand.

Bruce built his career in corporate restructuring and insolvency as a young partner at EY before founding Ferrier Hodgson’s Adelaide office. From there he became pivotal in some of South Australia’s biggest corporate challenges — Harris Scarfe’s collapse, the Elders refinancing, and government advisory roles on the Port Pirie smelter, Whyalla steelworks, the Olympic Dam expansion, and more. In 2021 he was appointed to the Board of Crown Resorts as it faced an existential reputational crisis and three Government Royal Commissions.

In this wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation, Bruce talks through:

  • His early life, influences and pathway to becoming a restructuring and insolvency professional
  • Two decades as an Australian Rules football umpire — and how quick decisions under pressure shaped his business instincts
  • The collapse of Harris Scarfe — including the discovery of two sets of books, unreliable records, and the race to rebuild the business
  • Elders’ turbulent GFC period — eight banks, competing agendas, and a 2.5-year workout that pushed the business to the edge
  • His mid-career pivot and personal tragedy — the sudden loss of his wife Briony, and how it changed his life and direction
  • Whyalla’s collapse, the economic shockwaves, and the complexity of saving a regional community’s largest employer
  • Crown Resorts in 2021 — what it was like inside Australia’s most scrutinised boardroom during three simultaneous Royal Commissions and 110 board meetings in a single year
  • His principles for dealing with extreme complexity and stakeholder chaos
  • How he approaches modern governance — integrity, transparency, humility, and never losing touch with the real business

Bruce’s reflections are candid, thoughtful and packed with lessons for leaders, directors and anyone navigating high-pressure decisions.

This is a rare window into the mindset of someone who has helped steer companies, governments and communities through their most pivotal moments.


⚠️ Disclaimer

The views expressed in this episode are personal opinions only and do not represent the views of any organisation, board, government body or company with which Bruce Carter AO or James H. Stewart is or has been associated. Nothing in this episode constitutes financial, legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making any decisions based on the topics discussed.


Contact James

Website: jameshstewart.com

Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Bruce Carter AO is one of Australia’s most respected commercial advisors and arguably South Australia’s “Mr Fix-It”. Over more than three decades, Bruce has become the person governments, boards and business leaders call when the stakes are high and commercial pragmatism is in demand.

Bruce built his career in corporate restructuring and insolvency as a young partner at EY before founding Ferrier Hodgson’s Adelaide office. From there he became pivotal in some of South Australia’s biggest corporate challenges — Harris Scarfe’s collapse, the Elders refinancing, and government advisory roles on the Port Pirie smelter, Whyalla steelworks, the Olympic Dam expansion, and more. In 2021 he was appointed to the Board of Crown Resorts as it faced an existential reputational crisis and three Government Royal Commissions.

In this wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation, Bruce talks through:

  • His early life, influences and pathway to becoming a restructuring and insolvency professional
  • Two decades as an Australian Rules football umpire — and how quick decisions under pressure shaped his business instincts
  • The collapse of Harris Scarfe — including the discovery of two sets of books, unreliable records, and the race to rebuild the business
  • Elders’ turbulent GFC period — eight banks, competing agendas, and a 2.5-year workout that pushed the business to the edge
  • His mid-career pivot and personal tragedy — the sudden loss of his wife Briony, and how it changed his life and direction
  • Whyalla’s collapse, the economic shockwaves, and the complexity of saving a regional community’s largest employer
  • Crown Resorts in 2021 — what it was like inside Australia’s most scrutinised boardroom during three simultaneous Royal Commissions and 110 board meetings in a single year
  • His principles for dealing with extreme complexity and stakeholder chaos
  • How he approaches modern governance — integrity, transparency, humility, and never losing touch with the real business

Bruce’s reflections are candid, thoughtful and packed with lessons for leaders, directors and anyone navigating high-pressure decisions.

This is a rare window into the mindset of someone who has helped steer companies, governments and communities through their most pivotal moments.


⚠️ Disclaimer

The views expressed in this episode are personal opinions only and do not represent the views of any organisation, board, government body or company with which Bruce Carter AO or James H. Stewart is or has been associated. Nothing in this episode constitutes financial, legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making any decisions based on the topics discussed.


Contact James

Website: jameshstewart.com

Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Iain Nairn: Laura Ashley, Witchery, Country Rd, David Jones & Hudsons Bay]]> Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:00:00 GMT 1:02:10 691433c2543edcb560e34aac false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/ian-nairn 691433c2543edcb560e34aac 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c ian-nairn Retail in the Lions Den full 1 9 When Iain Nairn walks into a room, he brings over 40 years of global retail experience — and a lifetime of lessons in leadership, resilience, and reinvention.

From his early days with Laura Ashley in the UK to record-breaking years at Country Road Group, a short but powerful stint at David Jones, and a complete digital reinvention of Hudson’s Bay in Canada, Iain has led through every challenge retail can throw at you — turnarounds, acquisitions, cultural clashes, and even a global pandemic.

But its not all beer and skittles. In this conversation, we unpack:

  • The challenges of managing the multi platform, multi geographic model of Laura Ashley
  • The success of Witchery and Country Rd when they were powerhouses of Australian retail
  • The challenges of business model transformation under pressure
  • The transformation of David Jones under new ownership — and why he chose to leave at the height of its success
  • The reinvention of Hudson’s Bay, one of the world’s oldest retailers, into a modern digital marketplace.
  • What leadership really looks like when pressure is relentless, the future is uncertain, and you still have to inspire people to perform.

It’s a powerful look inside the mind of a CEO who’s led billion-dollar brands, faced boardroom politics head-on, and still believes retail is a human story — not just a balance sheet.

🔗 Connect with James Stewart

For more insights, episode notes, and behind-the-scenes content, visit jameshstewart.com

or connect on LinkedIn.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and host and do not represent the views of any organisation, employer, or affiliate.

All information is provided for general discussion and educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional advice.

Listeners should seek independent guidance before making any business, financial, or investment decisions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> When Iain Nairn walks into a room, he brings over 40 years of global retail experience — and a lifetime of lessons in leadership, resilience, and reinvention.

From his early days with Laura Ashley in the UK to record-breaking years at Country Road Group, a short but powerful stint at David Jones, and a complete digital reinvention of Hudson’s Bay in Canada, Iain has led through every challenge retail can throw at you — turnarounds, acquisitions, cultural clashes, and even a global pandemic.

But its not all beer and skittles. In this conversation, we unpack:

  • The challenges of managing the multi platform, multi geographic model of Laura Ashley
  • The success of Witchery and Country Rd when they were powerhouses of Australian retail
  • The challenges of business model transformation under pressure
  • The transformation of David Jones under new ownership — and why he chose to leave at the height of its success
  • The reinvention of Hudson’s Bay, one of the world’s oldest retailers, into a modern digital marketplace.
  • What leadership really looks like when pressure is relentless, the future is uncertain, and you still have to inspire people to perform.

It’s a powerful look inside the mind of a CEO who’s led billion-dollar brands, faced boardroom politics head-on, and still believes retail is a human story — not just a balance sheet.

🔗 Connect with James Stewart

For more insights, episode notes, and behind-the-scenes content, visit jameshstewart.com

or connect on LinkedIn.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and host and do not represent the views of any organisation, employer, or affiliate.

All information is provided for general discussion and educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional advice.

Listeners should seek independent guidance before making any business, financial, or investment decisions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Jackie Kruger: Black Milk. Fandom, Sharkies & Alternative Fashion.]]> Mon, 17 Nov 2025 18:00:00 GMT 40:02 69142aa3a17ebcde88dabf54 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/jackie-kruger 69142aa3a17ebcde88dabf54 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c jackie-kruger full 1 8 From a kitchen table in Brisbane to a global online fashion movement — this is the story of Black Milk Clothing.

In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), host James H. Stewart sits down with Jackie Kruger, CEO of Black Milk Clothing, the cult Australian label known for its bold designs, product range diversity, and fiercely loyal community of Sharkies.

Jackie shares how she stepped into the CEO role following the tragic passing of founder James “jL” Lillis, and what it takes to balance creativity, commercial discipline, and community trust in a brand built on authenticity. Together, they unpack:

  • How Black Milk grew from James Lillis’s home sewing machine to an international e-commerce force
  • The emotional and operational realities of leading through grief and transition
  • How community and connection fuel long-term brand loyalty
  • The leadership, culture and resilience lessons that apply to founders, executives and team leaders alike

This conversation is a powerful look at creativity, courage, and the soul of a brand — and what it takes to carry that forward.


🎧 Listen now on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.


Connect with James:

🌐 Website: https://jameshstewart.com

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9


⚠️ Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, producers, or any affiliated organisations. The content is provided for general information and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional, financial, or business advice. Listeners should conduct their own research or seek independent professional guidance before acting on any information discussed.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> From a kitchen table in Brisbane to a global online fashion movement — this is the story of Black Milk Clothing.

In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!), host James H. Stewart sits down with Jackie Kruger, CEO of Black Milk Clothing, the cult Australian label known for its bold designs, product range diversity, and fiercely loyal community of Sharkies.

Jackie shares how she stepped into the CEO role following the tragic passing of founder James “jL” Lillis, and what it takes to balance creativity, commercial discipline, and community trust in a brand built on authenticity. Together, they unpack:

  • How Black Milk grew from James Lillis’s home sewing machine to an international e-commerce force
  • The emotional and operational realities of leading through grief and transition
  • How community and connection fuel long-term brand loyalty
  • The leadership, culture and resilience lessons that apply to founders, executives and team leaders alike

This conversation is a powerful look at creativity, courage, and the soul of a brand — and what it takes to carry that forward.


🎧 Listen now on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.


Connect with James:

🌐 Website: https://jameshstewart.com

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9


⚠️ Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, producers, or any affiliated organisations. The content is provided for general information and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional, financial, or business advice. Listeners should conduct their own research or seek independent professional guidance before acting on any information discussed.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> John King: Myer, House of Fraser, Matalan. John King: Myer, House of Fraser, Matalan. Mon, 10 Nov 2025 18:00:00 GMT 58:19 68f942c3237885ef40e9a7c9 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/john-king 68f942c3237885ef40e9a7c9 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c john-king The Retail Turnaround King full 1 7 John King's global experience in retail and wholesale brands is unique. He led three major retailers—Matalan, House of Fraser, and Myer—through wildly different market cycles, against major headwinds and each with their own unique set of challenges. After an early career with Sainsbury's and Marks and Spencer in the UK, he spent 13 years in the wholesale sector, witnessed the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers in NYC, guided House of Fraser through the GFC and then Myer through Covid.


If you are a retail nut, this episode is a not to be missed conversation where James and John discuss the levers that actually move the needle in legacy retail: footprint and lease strategy, loyalty economics, online performance, and what it takes to lead through a crisis, stabilise balance sheets and set a retail business up for success.


Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and host and do not necessarily reflect the views of any associated companies, organisations, or affiliates.

This podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional, financial, or legal advice.

All rights reserved © What I Learned in Business (that didn’t kill me!)


Connect with James

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> John King's global experience in retail and wholesale brands is unique. He led three major retailers—Matalan, House of Fraser, and Myer—through wildly different market cycles, against major headwinds and each with their own unique set of challenges. After an early career with Sainsbury's and Marks and Spencer in the UK, he spent 13 years in the wholesale sector, witnessed the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers in NYC, guided House of Fraser through the GFC and then Myer through Covid.


If you are a retail nut, this episode is a not to be missed conversation where James and John discuss the levers that actually move the needle in legacy retail: footprint and lease strategy, loyalty economics, online performance, and what it takes to lead through a crisis, stabilise balance sheets and set a retail business up for success.


Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and host and do not necessarily reflect the views of any associated companies, organisations, or affiliates.

This podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional, financial, or legal advice.

All rights reserved © What I Learned in Business (that didn’t kill me!)


Connect with James

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Frank Cancelloni: Murder, Mystery, Jim Thompson & The White Lotus]]> Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:00:00 GMT 44:30 68f7d320dbf5027e4925ae89 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/frank-cancelloni 68f7d320dbf5027e4925ae89 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c frank-cancelloni full 1 6 The Jim Thompson story is a spy mystery that leads to the launch of the Thai Silk industry


In this episode, James H. Stewart sits down with Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO of Jim Thompson — Thailand’s most iconic names in silk design, craftsmanship, and culture.


Frank shares his journey from leading global retail giants in Asia like Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein to reimagining Jim Thompson for a new era. Under his leadership, the brand has evolved far beyond silk — opening the spectacular Heritage Quarter in Bangkok, expanding into fashion, homeware, and hospitality, and even featuring in The White Lotus (Season 3).


Together, James and Frank explore:

  • How to lead transformation without losing authenticity or heritage
  • The lessons learned from global brand leadership across Asia
  • Why culture, design, and storytelling matter more than ever
  • The enduring mystery — and legacy — of Jim Thompson, the man who built it all


This is a conversation about reinvention, resilience, and respect for legacy — and a rare glimpse into what it takes to carry a 75-year-old brand into the future of global lifestyle retail.


🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.




Connect with James

Visit jameshstewart.com for updates, speaking events, and more episodes of What I Learned in Business (that didn’t kill me!).




⚖️ Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and host and do not necessarily reflect the views of any associated companies, organisations, or affiliates.


This podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional, financial, or legal advice.

All rights reserved © What I Learned in Business (that didn’t kill me!)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Jim Thompson story is a spy mystery that leads to the launch of the Thai Silk industry


In this episode, James H. Stewart sits down with Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO of Jim Thompson — Thailand’s most iconic names in silk design, craftsmanship, and culture.


Frank shares his journey from leading global retail giants in Asia like Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein to reimagining Jim Thompson for a new era. Under his leadership, the brand has evolved far beyond silk — opening the spectacular Heritage Quarter in Bangkok, expanding into fashion, homeware, and hospitality, and even featuring in The White Lotus (Season 3).


Together, James and Frank explore:

  • How to lead transformation without losing authenticity or heritage
  • The lessons learned from global brand leadership across Asia
  • Why culture, design, and storytelling matter more than ever
  • The enduring mystery — and legacy — of Jim Thompson, the man who built it all


This is a conversation about reinvention, resilience, and respect for legacy — and a rare glimpse into what it takes to carry a 75-year-old brand into the future of global lifestyle retail.


🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.




Connect with James

Visit jameshstewart.com for updates, speaking events, and more episodes of What I Learned in Business (that didn’t kill me!).




⚖️ Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and host and do not necessarily reflect the views of any associated companies, organisations, or affiliates.


This podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional, financial, or legal advice.

All rights reserved © What I Learned in Business (that didn’t kill me!)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Patrick Elliott: Private Equity Playbook Patrick Elliott: Private Equity Playbook Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:04:00 GMT 44:43 68e74c08de9a2a62c407f924 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/patrick-elliott 68e74c08de9a2a62c407f924 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c patrick-elliott full 1 5 Private-equity veteran Patrick Elliott (Founding Partner, Next Capital; ex-Macquarie PE; former Chair of JB Hi-Fi) joins James H Stewart to unpack career pivots, equity investing and what they teach us about risk, governance, and value creation.


Patrick traces his path from restructuring at Ferrier Hodgson to Private equity investing at Macquarie, then the leap to found Next Capital. We dig into the JB Hi-Fi MBI-to-IPO journey, the lessons from the collapse of Topshop Australia and how to approach turnarounds when the exit options are limited.


Whether you’re a founder, operator, or investor, you’ll get a playbook in patient investing, strategic pivots, and why great businesses are built around great people.


Practical, candid, and loaded with real examples.


Key Takeaways:

  • How to know when it’s time to change direction
  • The mindset required to transition from advisor to investor
  • Lessons from private equity and rethinking growth after crisis
“If you’re not learning or growing, you’re already going backwards.” — Patrick Elliott

About Patrick Elliott:

Patrick Elliott is Co-Founder of Next Capital and former executive at Macquarie Bank. A graduate of IMD (Switzerland), he has led investments across retail, consumer, and industrial sectors — combining analytical precision with entrepreneurial instinct.


Connect with Patrick:


https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-elliott-374a3214b

https://nextcapital.com.au


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.


What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) — hosted by James H. Stewart, exploring the stories behind resilience, reinvention, and leadership.


Connect with James:

🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Private-equity veteran Patrick Elliott (Founding Partner, Next Capital; ex-Macquarie PE; former Chair of JB Hi-Fi) joins James H Stewart to unpack career pivots, equity investing and what they teach us about risk, governance, and value creation.


Patrick traces his path from restructuring at Ferrier Hodgson to Private equity investing at Macquarie, then the leap to found Next Capital. We dig into the JB Hi-Fi MBI-to-IPO journey, the lessons from the collapse of Topshop Australia and how to approach turnarounds when the exit options are limited.


Whether you’re a founder, operator, or investor, you’ll get a playbook in patient investing, strategic pivots, and why great businesses are built around great people.


Practical, candid, and loaded with real examples.


Key Takeaways:

  • How to know when it’s time to change direction
  • The mindset required to transition from advisor to investor
  • Lessons from private equity and rethinking growth after crisis
“If you’re not learning or growing, you’re already going backwards.” — Patrick Elliott

About Patrick Elliott:

Patrick Elliott is Co-Founder of Next Capital and former executive at Macquarie Bank. A graduate of IMD (Switzerland), he has led investments across retail, consumer, and industrial sectors — combining analytical precision with entrepreneurial instinct.


Connect with Patrick:


https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-elliott-374a3214b

https://nextcapital.com.au


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.


What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) — hosted by James H. Stewart, exploring the stories behind resilience, reinvention, and leadership.


Connect with James:

🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Di Gillett: The Power of Women in Business. Di Gillett: The Power of Women in Business. Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:03:00 GMT 43:03 68e74c18de9a2a62c407fddf false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/di-gillett 68e74c18de9a2a62c407fddf 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c di-gillett Its not about the Hair! The Power of Women. full 1 4 Di Gillett is a former fashion-design student, turned retailer, turned headhunter, turned podcaster — whose life and career are a study in resilience and reinvention.


Di began her career in fashion and retail with Myer and Country Road, before spending more than 30 years in executive search, working with industry icon Andrew Banks at Talent 2 and later founding her own firm, Agora Partners. Today, she hosts the acclaimed Power of Women Podcast, and with almost 100 episodes, is approaching the top 1% of podcasters globally.

In a deeply honest conversation, Di shares the moments that shaped her — from surviving sudden alopecia to navigating the loss of her sister-in-law, elite cyclist Amy Gillett, whose death inspired a national road-safety movement.


Together, James and Di explore how adversity reshapes ambition, and why confidence and visibility matter more than ever for women in business.


Key Takeaways:

  • How to transform adversity into purpose
  • Why visibility and connection matter for women in business
  • The importance of authenticity in leadership and storytelling
“When you lose what defines you, you find out who you really are.” — Di Gillett

About Di Gillett:

Di Gillett is a business founder, podcast host, and advocate for women’s empowerment. With a background in retail and recruitment — including work with Andrew Banks and Talent2 — Di brings a grounded perspective on leadership, courage, and finding voice through adversity.


Connect with Di:


https://www.linkedin.com/in/di-gillett-power-of-women


https://powerofwomen.com.au/


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.


What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) — hosted by James H. Stewart, celebrating real stories of resilience, leadership, and growth.


Connect with James:

🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn


Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Di Gillett is a former fashion-design student, turned retailer, turned headhunter, turned podcaster — whose life and career are a study in resilience and reinvention.


Di began her career in fashion and retail with Myer and Country Road, before spending more than 30 years in executive search, working with industry icon Andrew Banks at Talent 2 and later founding her own firm, Agora Partners. Today, she hosts the acclaimed Power of Women Podcast, and with almost 100 episodes, is approaching the top 1% of podcasters globally.

In a deeply honest conversation, Di shares the moments that shaped her — from surviving sudden alopecia to navigating the loss of her sister-in-law, elite cyclist Amy Gillett, whose death inspired a national road-safety movement.


Together, James and Di explore how adversity reshapes ambition, and why confidence and visibility matter more than ever for women in business.


Key Takeaways:

  • How to transform adversity into purpose
  • Why visibility and connection matter for women in business
  • The importance of authenticity in leadership and storytelling
“When you lose what defines you, you find out who you really are.” — Di Gillett

About Di Gillett:

Di Gillett is a business founder, podcast host, and advocate for women’s empowerment. With a background in retail and recruitment — including work with Andrew Banks and Talent2 — Di brings a grounded perspective on leadership, courage, and finding voice through adversity.


Connect with Di:


https://www.linkedin.com/in/di-gillett-power-of-women


https://powerofwomen.com.au/


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.


What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) — hosted by James H. Stewart, celebrating real stories of resilience, leadership, and growth.


Connect with James:

🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn


Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Evan Thornley: Bold Bets, Big Start ups, Social Enterprise, & Politics]]> Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:02:00 GMT 54:01 68e74bd5d53d85ec478d7624 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/evan-thornley 68e74bd5d53d85ec478d7624 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c evan-thornley full 1 3

Evan Thornley is an entrepreneur, investor, reformer, and one of Australia’s most original thinkers on business and social change.


Evan’s career has been anything but conventional. He co-founded LookSmart, one of Australia’s first tech companies to list on NASDAQ at the height of the dot-com boom, before riding out its spectacular crash. He later entered Victorian politics, led the global Better Place electric-vehicle venture, helped rescue ABC Learning through the creation of Goodstart Early Learning, and today chairs LongView, a business tackling housing affordability and generational inequality.


James and Evan explore:

  • What it was like to ride the rise and fall of the dot-com bubble
  • The lessons from taking billion-dollar risks — and losing
  • Why Evan left politics to lead change from outside government
  • The story behind Goodstart and the ABC Learning rescue
  • How LongView is rethinking housing and wealth inequality in Australia
  • What Evan's learned about resilience, risk, and purpose across every chapter


This is a conversation about big ideas, bold failures, and rebuilding success with meaning.


Key Takeaways:

  • How failure can sharpen strategy and conviction
  • Why purpose-driven business models are the future
  • What leadership looks like in times of technological and ethical disruption
“The line between visionary and fool is very thin — but it’s where all the progress happens.” — Evan Thornley

About Evan Thornley:

Evan Thornley is an Australian tech entrepreneur, investor, and impact leader. He co-founded LookSmart, led Better Place Australia, was a driving force behind the GoodStart consortium that rescued 650 childcare centres from the financial collapse of ABC learning and now heads LongView, a purpose-driven property business focused on long-term wealth and housing reform.


Connect with Evan:


LinkedIn | https://longview.com.au


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.

What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) — hosted by James H. Stewart, exploring the real lessons from business, innovation, and resilience.


Connect with James:

🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>

Evan Thornley is an entrepreneur, investor, reformer, and one of Australia’s most original thinkers on business and social change.


Evan’s career has been anything but conventional. He co-founded LookSmart, one of Australia’s first tech companies to list on NASDAQ at the height of the dot-com boom, before riding out its spectacular crash. He later entered Victorian politics, led the global Better Place electric-vehicle venture, helped rescue ABC Learning through the creation of Goodstart Early Learning, and today chairs LongView, a business tackling housing affordability and generational inequality.


James and Evan explore:

  • What it was like to ride the rise and fall of the dot-com bubble
  • The lessons from taking billion-dollar risks — and losing
  • Why Evan left politics to lead change from outside government
  • The story behind Goodstart and the ABC Learning rescue
  • How LongView is rethinking housing and wealth inequality in Australia
  • What Evan's learned about resilience, risk, and purpose across every chapter


This is a conversation about big ideas, bold failures, and rebuilding success with meaning.


Key Takeaways:

  • How failure can sharpen strategy and conviction
  • Why purpose-driven business models are the future
  • What leadership looks like in times of technological and ethical disruption
“The line between visionary and fool is very thin — but it’s where all the progress happens.” — Evan Thornley

About Evan Thornley:

Evan Thornley is an Australian tech entrepreneur, investor, and impact leader. He co-founded LookSmart, led Better Place Australia, was a driving force behind the GoodStart consortium that rescued 650 childcare centres from the financial collapse of ABC learning and now heads LongView, a purpose-driven property business focused on long-term wealth and housing reform.


Connect with Evan:


LinkedIn | https://longview.com.au


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.

What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) — hosted by James H. Stewart, exploring the real lessons from business, innovation, and resilience.


Connect with James:

🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Paul Howes: Politics, Beaconsfield, Career Pivots & Tenet Advisory]]> Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:01:00 GMT 1:06:01 68e74b9d53a5e2858fa4d45c false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/paul-howes 68e74b9d53a5e2858fa4d45c 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c paul-howes full 1 2 Paul Howes is one of Australia’s most recognisable public figures and a leader whose career has spanned the union movement, politics, and corporate life.


Raised by a single mother in Sydney’s Blue Mountains, Paul became the youngest ever National Secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union, rising to national prominence during the Beaconsfield mine disaster. He later became a key player in Labor’s 2010 leadership drama which led to Julia Gillard becoming Australia's first female prime minister— an experience he chronicled in his book Confessions of a Faceless Man.


Today, Paul reflects on the lessons learned from crisis leadership, public scrutiny, and career transformation — from the factory floor to the boardroom. He also discusses his work with Beyond Blue, and his next chapter as CEO of Tenet Advisory & Investments, founded by Luke Sayers.


This is a candid, insightful, and at times surprising conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what leadership looks like under the spotlight.


Key Takeaways:

  • How to lead during crises
  • Why empathy matters
  • The value of reinvention
“Leadership isn’t about power — it’s about accountability when it matters most.” — Paul Howes


About Paul Howes:

Paul Howes is the incoming CEO of Tenet Advisory and Investments (from January 2026), former National Secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union, National Managing Partner of KPMG's Enterprise and Consulting divisions and a respected voice on business transformation and social reform. He served on the National COVID-19 Advisory Board and the Beyond Blue Board, bringing together business and community leadership.


Connect with Paul:


https://www.linkedin.com/in/pahowes/


https://tenetadvisory.com.au/


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.


What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) is hosted by James H. Stewart — senior commercial advisor uncovering the real stories behind leadership and resilience.


Connect with James:

🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Paul Howes is one of Australia’s most recognisable public figures and a leader whose career has spanned the union movement, politics, and corporate life.


Raised by a single mother in Sydney’s Blue Mountains, Paul became the youngest ever National Secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union, rising to national prominence during the Beaconsfield mine disaster. He later became a key player in Labor’s 2010 leadership drama which led to Julia Gillard becoming Australia's first female prime minister— an experience he chronicled in his book Confessions of a Faceless Man.


Today, Paul reflects on the lessons learned from crisis leadership, public scrutiny, and career transformation — from the factory floor to the boardroom. He also discusses his work with Beyond Blue, and his next chapter as CEO of Tenet Advisory & Investments, founded by Luke Sayers.


This is a candid, insightful, and at times surprising conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what leadership looks like under the spotlight.


Key Takeaways:

  • How to lead during crises
  • Why empathy matters
  • The value of reinvention
“Leadership isn’t about power — it’s about accountability when it matters most.” — Paul Howes


About Paul Howes:

Paul Howes is the incoming CEO of Tenet Advisory and Investments (from January 2026), former National Secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union, National Managing Partner of KPMG's Enterprise and Consulting divisions and a respected voice on business transformation and social reform. He served on the National COVID-19 Advisory Board and the Beyond Blue Board, bringing together business and community leadership.


Connect with Paul:


https://www.linkedin.com/in/pahowes/


https://tenetadvisory.com.au/


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.


What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) is hosted by James H. Stewart — senior commercial advisor uncovering the real stories behind leadership and resilience.


Connect with James:

🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Mark Korda: Enron, Ansett, Timbercorp, Arrium & Collingwood]]> Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:00:00 GMT 45:21 68e74a86de9a2a62c4077a34 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/mark-korda 68e74a86de9a2a62c4077a34 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c mark-korda full 1 1 Born out of the ashes of Enron and the collapse of global Big 5 firm Arthur Andersen, Korda Mentha has become a powerhouse advisory firm in Australia/Asia fuelled by winning some of the biggest and most high profile mandates in the country.


In this episode of What I Learned About Business (That Didn’t Kill Me), James H Stewart sits down with Mark Korda, co-founder of KordaMentha to discuss the inside story of founding KordaMentha, the lessons learned through some of Australia’s biggest corporate crises — including Ansett Airlines, Timbercorp, and Arrium, and the difficult cultural journey to transform Australia's most successful sporting club, Collingwood FC.


Key Takeaways:

  • How to lead under intense public and financial pressure
  • How to balance transparency and authority in difficult times
  • Why culture matters to business success
“You don’t learn much when things go right — you learn, when everything almost falls apart.” — Mark Korda

About Mark Korda:

Mark Korda is Co-Founder of KordaMentha and a former President of the Collingwood Football Club. With decades in corporate restructuring, he’s been at the helm of landmark Australian administrations and continues to shape thinking on business recovery and governance.


About Korda Mentha:


https://www.linkedin.com/company/kordamentha/posts/?feedView=all


https://kordamentha.com/home


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.


What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) is hosted by James H. Stewart — Senior commercial advisor and founder of JamesHStewart.com.


Connect with James:


🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn


Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Born out of the ashes of Enron and the collapse of global Big 5 firm Arthur Andersen, Korda Mentha has become a powerhouse advisory firm in Australia/Asia fuelled by winning some of the biggest and most high profile mandates in the country.


In this episode of What I Learned About Business (That Didn’t Kill Me), James H Stewart sits down with Mark Korda, co-founder of KordaMentha to discuss the inside story of founding KordaMentha, the lessons learned through some of Australia’s biggest corporate crises — including Ansett Airlines, Timbercorp, and Arrium, and the difficult cultural journey to transform Australia's most successful sporting club, Collingwood FC.


Key Takeaways:

  • How to lead under intense public and financial pressure
  • How to balance transparency and authority in difficult times
  • Why culture matters to business success
“You don’t learn much when things go right — you learn, when everything almost falls apart.” — Mark Korda

About Mark Korda:

Mark Korda is Co-Founder of KordaMentha and a former President of the Collingwood Football Club. With decades in corporate restructuring, he’s been at the helm of landmark Australian administrations and continues to shape thinking on business recovery and governance.


About Korda Mentha:


https://www.linkedin.com/company/kordamentha/posts/?feedView=all


https://kordamentha.com/home


🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share.


What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) is hosted by James H. Stewart — Senior commercial advisor and founder of JamesHStewart.com.


Connect with James:


🌐 JamesHStewart.com | LinkedIn


Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organisations, affiliates, or of the host. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as business, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own independent advice before making decisions related to any topics discussed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[What I learned in business (that didn't kill me!) ]]> Fri, 26 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 5:19 68d1c2aa325b3a0ac811b4e6 false https://shows.acast.com/what-i-learned-in-business-that-didnt-kill-me/episodes/draft-only-do-not-publish-trailer-sample 68d1c2aa325b3a0ac811b4e6 68c8d9069445f7a95104183c draft-only-do-not-publish-trailer-sample The Short Story. A podcast about business, leadership and learning. full 1 For 40 years I was a corporate undertaker. I buried businesses that failed and helped save those where there was still a pulse.


I was parachuted into some of corporate Australia’s biggest financial crisis, insolvencies and turnaround environments. I have been in Board rooms, Court rooms and on shop floors when all seems lost (and sometimes it was).


Over decades at the coal face of business (often in the most difficult circumstances), I have seen & heard stories that delighted and inspired me, as well as those which serve as a guide of the path not to take.


I also spent years in leadership roles at Ferrier Hodgson and KPMG Australia where I sat on the Board and was the National Consumer and Retail leader.


What I learned about Business (that didn’t kill me!) shares the stories behind some of the world's most interesting business situations, how they unfolded, how my guests dealt with them, and how those experiences changed them and the way they do business.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> For 40 years I was a corporate undertaker. I buried businesses that failed and helped save those where there was still a pulse.


I was parachuted into some of corporate Australia’s biggest financial crisis, insolvencies and turnaround environments. I have been in Board rooms, Court rooms and on shop floors when all seems lost (and sometimes it was).


Over decades at the coal face of business (often in the most difficult circumstances), I have seen & heard stories that delighted and inspired me, as well as those which serve as a guide of the path not to take.


I also spent years in leadership roles at Ferrier Hodgson and KPMG Australia where I sat on the Board and was the National Consumer and Retail leader.


What I learned about Business (that didn’t kill me!) shares the stories behind some of the world's most interesting business situations, how they unfolded, how my guests dealt with them, and how those experiences changed them and the way they do business.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>