Shows
Bold Ideas#4 // Tobi Skovron, Cubes.Co // More Than Coworking: Rethinking How We Work and the Future of CommunityIn this episode of Bold Ideas, I’m joined by Tobi Skovron, the trailblazing founder and CEO of Creative Cubes - Australia’s most dynamic coworking ecosystem that puts people and purpose at the heart of work.
Tobi’s bold idea was born from his experience as an entrepreneur in Los Angeles, where the power of community transformed his business - and his life. Determined to bring that same magic home, he created Creative Cubes: a thriving network of spaces designed to “enable success and deliver happiness.”
In this episode, y...
2025-10-2849 min
The Business Agora#41 - James Christie (Director and Finance Broker at Modern Financial)In today's episode, we connect with James Christie from Modern Financial. We discuss the importance of aligning lifestyle goals, with financial plans, asset acquisition, and management strategies. James shares key questions to consider, as he does with clients either looking to enter the property market, or upgrade within it. As a broker, James does not give financial advise, but does have a brilliant skill of asking the right questions to ensure his clients are making decision with their goals and vision in mind. He shares some of these questions with us, which are worth listening to!You...
2022-06-1317 minThe Business Agora#40 - Roshan Ramnarain (CEO at Energy Matters)In today's episode, we connect with Roshan (Rosh) from Energy Matters. We hear about his history of over 20 years working in the energy industry, as well as his transition into his role as CEO at Energy Matters. A passionate advocate for green energy, and a greener future, Roshan shares about the economic and ecological imperative for solar power. If you're someone who wants to both spend less on energy and contribute less to our carbon footprint (at home, or at work), Roshan shares some insightful data and considerations to keep in mind. We close by hearing how Rosh balances...
2022-06-0133 minThe Business Agora#39 - Rebecca Freestone (General Manager, workspace365)In this episode, we connect with our General Manager, Rebecca. We hear about workspace365's vision, and aspiration for our workplace and team environment, as well as how this was adapted in a post-lockdown Melbourne. Rebecca shares how we supported our team during the challenges of lockdowns, including the transition into our new normal. Team wellbeing and connectivity are something we value highly at workspace365 and are something Rebecca shares insights into the way we cultivated and maintained during times of change and transition. Whether you're an employer seeking ideas and insights into crafting a connected and w...
2022-04-2810 minThe Business Agora#38 - Jordon Elf (Area Sales Manager, workspace365)In this episode, we connect with our very own Area Sales Manager, Jordon. We hear a little about Jordon's story leading him from London to working with us at workspace365, as well as the lessons in sales he's learned along the way. Having joined the team during COVID-19, we also hear about his experience of the shifting market and what clients are looking for in office solutions in the post-lockdown market. We also connect with life outside of work for Jordon, and what keeps him busy, healthy, and connected in the after-hours. We're humans before we are a role...
2022-04-0615 minThe Business Agora#37 - Troy Gread (Managing Consultant, Workvergent)In this episode, we connect with Troy from Workvergent. As an HR, ER (Employee Relations), and IR (Industrial Relations) consultant, Troy has a depth of knowledge and experience supporting organisations of all sizes manage their teams. We explore how HR functions have needed to evolve and adapt during the COVID context, as well as how EVPs (Employee Value Propositions) have changed, leading organisations needing to adjust how they recruit and manage talent. We also hear some insights into Troy's experience as a business owner during this time, as well as some tips for crafting a business with wellbeing in...
2022-02-0128 minThe Business Agora#36 - Veerappan S.S.Subramaniam (Principal Consultant, AKSC Australia)In today's episode, we connect with Veera from AKSC Consulting. As a boutique consulting firm, specialising in intellectual property, strategic advisory, and corporate services, Veera shares his perspective on the implicit and intangible value of brands and how businesses can both protect and scale this value effectively. Full of stories, humour, and joy, Veera shares insights into brand protection gone array, and tips on how to best leverage your brand. Connect with AKSC Consulting here and Trademarker here.---Connect with workspace365 here.
2021-09-2118 min
The Business Agora#35 - Matt Hofman (Founder & Head of Strategy at Next Level Online Marketing)In today's episode, we connect with Matt Hofman from Next Level Online Marketing (NLOM). One of our members in our Torquay centre, we explore the power of habits as business owners tending to our mental and emotional wellbeing, especially during this time. We also explore Matt's adept experience in online marketing, media buying, and marketing, including some great DIY tips and insights for small businesses trying to make the most of their marketing efforts. This is a great episode, a rich and authentic conversation, and we do hope you'll enjoy!Connect with NLOM here.---
2021-08-1724 minThe Business Agora#34 - Jane Metlikovec (Founder & Managing Director at Upstride Agency)In today's episode, we connect with Jane from Upstride Agency. Jane is a member with us at our 72 York Street Centre, and founded Upstride Agency, creating impactful media and communications strategies for the public sector, health and community organisations, environmental groups, and big infrastructure. We discuss what an integrated and systemic view of communications looks like in practice, as well as some prompts to kickstart thinking for anyone aiming to DIY their communications strategy. Connect with Upstride Agency here, or Jane on LinkedIn here.---Connect with workspace365 here.
2021-08-0219 minThe Business Agora#33 - David Rankin (Founder at Sort My Money)In today's episode, we connect with a long-time member at our 350 Collins Street Centre, David Rankin. David founded Sort My Money which has become quite the industry go-to personal budgeting service. Exploring some of the foundational philosophies, ways of thinking, and practical solutions to personal financial harmony and abundance, David shares a wealth of inspiration and invaluable information with us in this episode. Whether it's the thinking tools and ways to relate to finance, or the 'down to Earth' practicalities of managing your personal finances, there will be something in this one for you. You can connect w...
2021-07-2227 minThe Business Agora#32 - Jamid Dewani (CEO at ConsultXperts)In today's episode, we connect with Jamid from ConsultXperts. We explore Jamid's experience of the talent recruitment industry during COVID-19, how they are supporting teams in finding experts, and experts in connecting with teams. This one is a great look into the industry from someone leading a charge from within.Connect with Jamid and ConsultXperts here.----You can also connect with us at workspace365 here.
2021-07-0616 minThe Business Agora#31 - Hannah Kasay (Founder at Kasay Cleaning)In today's episode, we connect for an inspiring conversation with Hannah Kasay from Kasay Cleaning. We hear about Hannah's personal journey and inspiration to starting her social enterprise in the cleaning industry, as well as what being a 'for-purpose' business means to Hannah. With a new generation of businesses adopting a "triple bottom-line" (people, planet, and profit), this is an inspiring look at what that might look like from inside a business doing this in a very humble, and local way.
Connect with Hannah and Kasay Cleaning here.
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2021-06-2822 minThe Business Agora#30 - Leslie Barry (CEO at Exponentially)In today's episode, we connect with Leslie Barry from Exponentially. We explore Leslie's journey to supporting organisations and leaders implement 'pretotyping' thinking and innovation strategies into their business. You might be thinking, "what is pretotyping?" Well, we explore that in great detail too. In COVID-19 times, maybe more than ever, we are all invited to think a little more entrepreneurially, embrace the teachings of failure and increasing our capacity for innovation and adaptability -- this one will certainly give you some insights into all of these. You can connect with Leslie at the following links:E...
2021-06-2126 minThe Business Agora#29 - Jamie Hyndman (General Manager at Yellow Brick Road Torquay/Geelong)In today's episode, we connect with Jamie from Yellow Brick Road in Torquay. He's a valued member of our new Torquay centre and shares his personal journey to financial advisory and wealth management. We also discuss the cyclical nature of economies, managing the core trends of the property market and the COVID-world, as well as get a taste of his adventurous nature in the ways he spends time outside of work. You can connect with Jamie and the YBR Geelong/Torquay team here.---Connect with workspace365 at www.workspace365.com.au
2021-06-0823 minThe Business Agora#28 - Jaime Nosworthy (CEO at The Pistol)In today's episode, we connect with Jaime from The Pistol, a data-driven media agency based in Cremorne and working from our Torquay workspace also. We hear about Jaime's journey to becoming the CEO at The Pistol, her passion for innovative marketing approaches, the distinction between 'traditional' marketing approaches and 'innovative' approaches, as well as some of the ins and outs of what's working in our digital and post-COVID world. This one is inspiring, and full of snippets to reflect upon for your marketing strategy!You can learn more about, and connect to The Pistol here....
2021-06-0120 minThe Business Agora#27 - Adam Fiske (Co-Founder & Director at iRival Media)In today's episode, we connect with Adam from iRival Media, a media and technology company specializing in the sports and wagering industries. We connect with Adam's story leading him to founding iRival Media, his experience growing a sports wagering business during COVID-19, the lessons and insights gleaned along the way, as well as some of his wellbeing tips from being a father, husband and now co-founder of a fast-growing startup with full-time 7 employees.You can connect with Adam and iRival media at https://www.irivalmedia.com/--Connect with us at workspace365 at...
2021-05-0319 minThe Business Agora#26 - Luke Course (Director at Gawk Outdoor)In today's episode, we connect with Luke from Gawk Outdoor, an outdoor advertising business with billboards across Regional Victoria. We explore Luke and his brother James' passion for regional Victoria, where this comes from, how they got into the billboard advertising business, and some of his top places to see in Regional Victoria (from a regular traveler). You can connect with Luke and Gawk Outdoor at www.gawk.com.au ----Connect with workspace365 over at www.workspace365.com.au
2021-04-2921 minThe Business Agora#25 - Kellie Badge and David Ferrier (Directors at Forensic Solutions)In today's episode, we connect with Kellie and David from Forensic Solutions. We hear about the practice of forensic accounting, tips for business owners to avoid needing forensics, and a window into their lives outside of work -- something we see as very important here on the show!You can connect with Kellie and David at www.forensicsolutions.com.au or at their LinkedIn Group.----Connect with workspace365 at www.workspace365.com.au
2021-04-1321 minThe Business Agora#24 - Nihit Mittal (Senior Client Manager at Southern Cross Business Advisers)In today's episode we connect with Nihit from Southern Cross Business Advisers, a recent member at our 485 La Trobe Street location. We discuss Nihit's passion for relationships, and a more 'relational' approach to the services industry, how relationship as opposed to transaction fuels a trusting partnership for support and advisory. We also explore what we can learn about managing the growth of a business during testing times. You can connect with Nihit on SCBA's website, or directly at nihit.mittal@scba.com.au.---Connect with us at www.workspace365.com.au.
2021-03-3019 minThe Business Agora#23 - Biret Agirtan (Managing Director at Corptec Technology Partners)In today's episode, we are joined by Biret from Corptec Technology Partners. We discuss the increasing demand for digital transformation, support in recruiting for technology futures and the power of a morning routine. Exploring Robin Sharma's 'The 5AM Club,' we explore the importance of self-discipline in the mornings to set the tone for your day both physiologically and psychologically. You can connect with workspace365 online at: www.workspace365.com.au
2021-03-2317 minThe Business Agora#22 - Nick Lear (Group Manager at Placements International)In our first episode back for 2021, we speak to Nick from Placements International. We hear about Nick's fascinating and inspiring journey through financial planning, commercial finance, recruitment, to now managing the Australian operations for a boutique services provider. Throughout our conversation we touch on many gems of philosophy, what it means to "live the good life," and how some of this timeless advice might serve us as we transition out of a COVID-Melbourne. You can connect with workspace365 online at: www.workspace365.com.au
2021-01-1936 minThe Business Agora#21 - Gem Loyer (Founder at Femdala Events)In this episode, we have the joy of connecting with Gem from Femdala Events. With a passion for community development, events and gathering people together, Gem has infused her passion and purpose together to create Femdala Events during lockdown here in Melbourne. We hear about her Italian-Australian heritage, how it catalysed her love for events, as well as how she setup Femdala Events as a social-enterprise to support her work in international communities, such as in Cambodia. This is a conversation filled with passion, curiousity and excitement.You can connect with Gem at gemma@femdalaevents.com.au.
2020-11-1920 minThe Business Agora#20 - Mars Najdovski (Founder and Director at IB Homes)In this episode, we connect with Mars from IB Homes. Hearing about his passion for a client-centred approach to building, empathy in the workplace and surrounding himself with contractors who love their work as much as he does, we get a taste of the authenticity and joy Mars brings to his work. We also get to hear about his mental health practices, how he remains resilient in times of uncertainty and what advice he'd give to anyone who considers themselves 'busy' when it comes to looking after their own mental and social health. You can connect with IB...
2020-11-1023 minThe Business Agora#19 - Stewart Hay (Managing Director at Luminosity Innovations)In today's episode we connect with Stewart Hay from Luminosity Innovations. With a keen interest in making a difference, public health, the natural world and business, Stewart shares a little about his journey to working in the health technology sector for the last 20 years, as well as the exciting new product they are working on at Luminosity Innovations. This is a very exciting innovation to support with the reduction of skin cancer in Australia and decrease the Vitamin D deficiency all at the same time!You can connect with Stewart on LinkedIn here, and Luminosity Innovations here.
2020-11-0317 minThe Business Agora#18 - Sean Walsh (Regional Director at Centrify)Join in a conversation with Sean Walsh from Centrify. Sean launches and scales ventures in the IT/Security space here in Australia and New Zealand. In this conversation we explore Sean's story to working in this space, his insights into successfully launching and scaling in new markets, the robust skills of sales and startups, as well as the importance of a positive imagination. You can connect further with Sean on LinkedIn. ---Connect with us at workspace365 online or on Facebook.
2020-10-1526 minThe Business Agora#17: Nickita Knight - Principal at Knight Family LawyersIn today's episode, we connect with Nickita from Knight Family Lawyers. We hear about his journey to starting the firm 5 years ago, as well as his ongoing growth to support a humanistic approach to family law. Nickita also shares some of his observations and insights into communication and tools for building harmony in relationships during this time. You can connect with Knight Family Lawyers online or email Nickita directly at nk@kflaw.com.au.---Connect with us at workspace365 online or on Facebook.
2020-10-0617 minThe Business Agora#16 - Brett Stene (Principal and Senior Adviser at Jacaranda Financial Planning)Today we connect with Brette Stene from Jacaranda Financial Planning. You may have heard Brett on 3AW Radio, or seen him online as he is quite the leader in the financial sector supporting individuals and families structure their finances in ways that create opportunity, security and freedom. We discuss what this time of COVID-19 is inviting all of us to look at regarding our finances, some tips and insights into ways we can touch up our finances and the importance of tiny daily disciplines for not only our financial wellbeing, but our mental wellbeing. You can connect w...
2020-09-2923 minThe Business Agora#15 - Dara Simkin (Founder & Director at Culture Hero)In today's conversation, we meet and have the privilege of gleaning insight from Dara Simkin from Culture Hero. Dara is a play-expert and works with teams across Australia to support in infusing play, collaboration and engagement into culture and leadership. We touch on the role of play in our leadership and lives, the science of play, how we might create more engaging online meetings during lockdown and much more. ---Connect with us for more at www.workspace365.com.au
2020-09-2225 minThe Business Agora#14 - Inder and Rahul (Directors at Allied Legal)Join us in conversation with both Inder and Rahul from Allied Legal. Working in the startup and innovation ecosystem, Rahul, Inder and their team support startups and businesses with their growth, legal, and innovation strategy. We discuss the idea of "everyone an innovator" in this time, how small businesses are finding exciting new ways to stay relevant as well as their tips for staying connected during this time. You can connect with Allied Legal on Facebook to access some of their free webinars and materials. ---Connect with workspace365 online at www.workspace365.co...
2020-09-1532 minThe Business Agora#13 - David Prestidge (Director, Bonded Stream & IT, workspace365)Join us in conversation with our IT expert and whiz, David Prestidge. He is the man behind all of our IT services and infrastructure and very much supports the services that support us and our member’s businesses. We explore David’s passion for IT, some of the ways he manages his time and complex projects (some brilliant task management advice in there!), as well as what he would recommend to small business owners in streamlining processes and moving remote.Connect with David: david@bondedstream.com---Connect with workspace365 online at www.work...
2020-09-0823 minThe Business Agora#12 - Al Jeffery (Community Engagement Lead at workspace365)In this episode, we hear from our host, Al Jeffery himself as he shares a little about his work within Community and Leadership Development at workspace365 and other communities. He shares a little of workspaces365's philosophy for community and why leadership development is seen as being crucial in forming a congruent and authentic community. He also shares some notes on mindfulness and mindful communication as practices that support us in our relationships both in work and life during times of uncertainty and change. ---- Connect with us online at www.workspace365.com.au
2020-08-2518 minThe Business Agora#11 - Priya Milton (Mediator at Advance Meditation)Join me in conversation with Priya Milton from Advance Mediation. We explore why taking your lunchbreaks might do more than improve productivity and mental health, but also help you expand your network. We also explore some key micro-skills for negotiation, as well as tips for those starting a business and going out on their own. You can connect with Priya and Advance Meditation here.---Connect with workspace365 online at www.workspace365.com.au
2020-08-1821 minThe Business Agora#10 - Andrew Grant (Managing Director at Grant Executive Search)In this week's conversation, we connect with Andy Grant from Grant Executive Search. We explore Andy's journey and passion for connecting the right candidate to the right role, as well as some useful insights into balancing work/life during lockdown. Enjoy our conversation and head on over to connect with Andy and Grant Executive Search on LinkedIn, or through their website.
2020-08-1119 minThe Business Agora#9 - Brian O'Neill (Managing Director at SeedIM)In this episode we connect with Brian O’Neil from Seed Information Management, a member with us in Footscray. Brian shares his story into information management, his passion for gathering, organising and making sense of data, as well as his insights into ‘going virtual’ during this time. We explore some simple tips for businesses using this time to refine their systems and processes. Connect with Brian on LinkedIn or get in touch with SeedIM.---Connect with workspace365 online at www.workspace365.com.au
2020-08-0430 minThe Business Agora#8 - Nathan Sinnott (Founder and CEO at Newpath Web)Join us for a conversation with Nathan Sinnott from Newpath Web. We hear about Nathan's journey to founding Newpath Web, how his focus on 'tribe' and building community in the workplace has supported them in this time, as well as some key ways to practice being proactive as a business leader during COVID-19. This is a great one for anyone leading a team amidst change or seeking insights into where to place marketing efforts amidst uncertain markets.---Connect with workspace365 online at www.workspace365.com.au
2020-07-2832 minThe Business Agora#7 - Jacob Feenstra (Director at The Instant Group)We hear from Jacob from The Instant Group and his experience in the serviced-offices industry during COVID-19. We discuss the importance of listening to customers and hosting regular working groups to understand industry movements and respond rather than react in this time. We also discuss the importance of finding ways to process anxiety, uncertainty, fear or grief in this time, which we hear Jacob is doing through his paintings. This is a brilliant episode covering some important topics both professionally and personally, to help you in both your leadership and life. Connect with workspace365 online at www.w...
2020-07-2124 minThe Business Agora#6 - Eleanor Borg (Centre Manager at workspace365)Connect with Eleanor (Elle) our Centre Manager at 330 Collins Street. We explore her experience working with other communities in the past, her lessons in fostering productive business communities, leading a team during COVID-19, as well as some glimpses into her 'life outside of work.' This is a light-hearted introduction to Elle's passion for community, supporting businesses and their leaders as well as her vision for the community at 350 Collins Street. Connect with workspace365 online at www.workspace365.com.au
2020-07-1421 minThe Business Agora#5 - Shahin Hoda (Founder at xGrowth)Hear from Shahin Hoda of xGrowth, on his insights into marketing, messaging and reaching clients during this time. We discuss what can be learned from companies who are 'marketing well' during uncertainty and turmoil. What messaging is effective? What platforms are reaching clients? How can we leverage the opportunity to build 'Share of Voice' whilst many are decreasing marketing budget? Listen in for an engaging conversation with plenty of practical insights from Shahin's work with their clients in the field. Connect with workspace365 online at www.workspace365.com.au
2020-07-0724 minThe Business Agora#4 - Caroline Mense (Principal Lawyer at Legal Enablers)Connect with and hear from Caroline Mense from Legal Enablers. Caroline has a depth of experience in commercial and employment law, intellectual property, as well as dispute resolution. With many questions regarding legislation, protecting a business and supporting employees to the best of our ability arising for business owners, Caroline's insights have supported many in this time. Join us as she shares some of her insights and recommendations for small-business owners. Connect with workspace365 online at www.workspace365.com.au
2020-06-3022 minThe Business Agora#3 - Rebecca Freestone (GM of Operations at workspace365)Hear from Rebecca regarding her experiences in the coworking industry over more than 10 years, as well as her insights into leading a team and setting up a business for success operationally. This one is a great one for those running a business, looking to fine-tune systems and understand how we might look after our teams post-COVID19.
2020-06-2214 min
The Business Agora#2 - Irina Gershkov (GM of Sales at workspace365)We connect with Irina Gershkov, our General Manager of Sales (Vic) to hear of her experience before joining workspace365, as well as her advice and tips for choosing office space after assisting 100's of business owners in finding the right space for their business.
2020-06-1514 minThe Business Agora#1 - Michael Benson (CEO, workspace365)Join in for a conversation with Michael Benson, Founder and CEO at workspace365. We explore the evolution of the co-working industry over the last 20 years, Michael's insights into where the industry is heading post-COVID19, as well as insights into leading a team amidst uncertainty. Connect with workspace365 online at www.workspace365.com.au
2020-06-0921 min
Finance Hour on J-AirEpisode 53- Where We WorkEpisode 53 - Where we work Working from home is said to be the most comfortable way to earn money, but the co-working space industry has been slowly and steadily growing at the same time. What’s up with this trend? This is the question my guest Michael Benson will answer in today’s episode. Michael is the CEO at Worskpace365, a business that provides co-working space services. He discusses the current co-working space trend and why work-from-home people are now renting office space. He explains the many benefits of working in an office space, the perks of the...
2018-11-1341 min