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How Zapme is Solving Global Travel Hassles with One App
Manage episode 441657494 series 2932788
Contenuto fornito da Curious Media. Tutti i contenuti dei podcast, inclusi episodi, grafica e descrizioni dei podcast, vengono caricati e forniti direttamente da Curious Media o dal partner della piattaforma podcast. Se ritieni che qualcuno stia utilizzando la tua opera protetta da copyright senza la tua autorizzazione, puoi seguire la procedura descritta qui https://it.player.fm/legal.
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve chats with Scott King, co-founder of Zapme, an innovative global communications platform that simplifies international travel by providing seamless connectivity.
Scott dives into the story of how Zapme was born out of the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic while working overseas, sparking the idea for a service that offers global numbers, data, and messaging—all in one app.
Scott shares his entrepreneurial journey, from growing up in Alice Springs to working in Japan, Miami, and on cruise ships before founding Zapme. He reflects on the importance of solving problems, the lessons learned along the way, and Zapme’s potential to help not only travellers but professionals, recruiters, and even dating app users.
Scott also offers a glimpse into Zapme’s exciting future, including plans to expand into B2B markets and how the platform can be used beyond travel. He emphasises the importance of building a global community and solving everyday communication challenges.
Timestamps:
01:00 - What Zapme does and Scott’s inspiration
03:00 - The impact of COVID-19 on Zapme’s creation
06:45 - Scott’s entrepreneurial background: From Japan to cruise ships
09:30 - How Zapme solves global communication issues for travellers
13:00 - Expanding Zapme’s use cases: Recruiters, dating apps, and more
16:30 - Scott’s vision for Zapme’s future and the B2B market
19:00 - The importance of community and solving global problems
Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring conversations with founders, innovators, and industry leaders!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support.
…
continue reading
Scott dives into the story of how Zapme was born out of the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic while working overseas, sparking the idea for a service that offers global numbers, data, and messaging—all in one app.
Scott shares his entrepreneurial journey, from growing up in Alice Springs to working in Japan, Miami, and on cruise ships before founding Zapme. He reflects on the importance of solving problems, the lessons learned along the way, and Zapme’s potential to help not only travellers but professionals, recruiters, and even dating app users.
Scott also offers a glimpse into Zapme’s exciting future, including plans to expand into B2B markets and how the platform can be used beyond travel. He emphasises the importance of building a global community and solving everyday communication challenges.
Timestamps:
01:00 - What Zapme does and Scott’s inspiration
03:00 - The impact of COVID-19 on Zapme’s creation
06:45 - Scott’s entrepreneurial background: From Japan to cruise ships
09:30 - How Zapme solves global communication issues for travellers
13:00 - Expanding Zapme’s use cases: Recruiters, dating apps, and more
16:30 - Scott’s vision for Zapme’s future and the B2B market
19:00 - The importance of community and solving global problems
Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring conversations with founders, innovators, and industry leaders!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support.
146 episodi
Manage episode 441657494 series 2932788
Contenuto fornito da Curious Media. Tutti i contenuti dei podcast, inclusi episodi, grafica e descrizioni dei podcast, vengono caricati e forniti direttamente da Curious Media o dal partner della piattaforma podcast. Se ritieni che qualcuno stia utilizzando la tua opera protetta da copyright senza la tua autorizzazione, puoi seguire la procedura descritta qui https://it.player.fm/legal.
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve chats with Scott King, co-founder of Zapme, an innovative global communications platform that simplifies international travel by providing seamless connectivity.
Scott dives into the story of how Zapme was born out of the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic while working overseas, sparking the idea for a service that offers global numbers, data, and messaging—all in one app.
Scott shares his entrepreneurial journey, from growing up in Alice Springs to working in Japan, Miami, and on cruise ships before founding Zapme. He reflects on the importance of solving problems, the lessons learned along the way, and Zapme’s potential to help not only travellers but professionals, recruiters, and even dating app users.
Scott also offers a glimpse into Zapme’s exciting future, including plans to expand into B2B markets and how the platform can be used beyond travel. He emphasises the importance of building a global community and solving everyday communication challenges.
Timestamps:
01:00 - What Zapme does and Scott’s inspiration
03:00 - The impact of COVID-19 on Zapme’s creation
06:45 - Scott’s entrepreneurial background: From Japan to cruise ships
09:30 - How Zapme solves global communication issues for travellers
13:00 - Expanding Zapme’s use cases: Recruiters, dating apps, and more
16:30 - Scott’s vision for Zapme’s future and the B2B market
19:00 - The importance of community and solving global problems
Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring conversations with founders, innovators, and industry leaders!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support.
…
continue reading
Scott dives into the story of how Zapme was born out of the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic while working overseas, sparking the idea for a service that offers global numbers, data, and messaging—all in one app.
Scott shares his entrepreneurial journey, from growing up in Alice Springs to working in Japan, Miami, and on cruise ships before founding Zapme. He reflects on the importance of solving problems, the lessons learned along the way, and Zapme’s potential to help not only travellers but professionals, recruiters, and even dating app users.
Scott also offers a glimpse into Zapme’s exciting future, including plans to expand into B2B markets and how the platform can be used beyond travel. He emphasises the importance of building a global community and solving everyday communication challenges.
Timestamps:
01:00 - What Zapme does and Scott’s inspiration
03:00 - The impact of COVID-19 on Zapme’s creation
06:45 - Scott’s entrepreneurial background: From Japan to cruise ships
09:30 - How Zapme solves global communication issues for travellers
13:00 - Expanding Zapme’s use cases: Recruiters, dating apps, and more
16:30 - Scott’s vision for Zapme’s future and the B2B market
19:00 - The importance of community and solving global problems
Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring conversations with founders, innovators, and industry leaders!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support.
146 episodi
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1 Caitlin Judd Talks Mentorship, Female Leadership, and Building Brands 1:13:27
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In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve interviews Caitlin Judd, who takes us through her fascinating journey, starting with her roots in Melbourne, where she studied business and media at Monash University. She shares her transformative experience living in Miami, working across marketing, acting, and even selling high-end art, before returning to Melbourne to pursue a corporate marketing career. Feeling unfulfilled, Caitlin made a bold pivot into freelancing, supporting female entrepreneurs and leaders in the wellbeing sector. She discusses the importance of mentorship, coaching, and empowering women in business—particularly in the male-dominated investment world. Caitlin also dives into her podcasting journey with Lady Brains, which became a powerful tool for personal and professional growth, allowing her to build a community of like-minded individuals. Timestamps: 00:18 – Meet Caitlin Judd and her journey from Melbourne to Miami 01:07 – From corporate marketing to freelancing for women entrepreneurs 02:26 – The power of mentorship and coaching women in leadership 05:45 – How podcasting with Lady Brains became a tool for growth 11:15 – Exploring angel investing and the gender funding gap 16:55 – The importance of self-compassion and taking risks in business 19:30 – Caitlin’s mission to create meaningful change for women 27:00 – What’s next for Caitlin and her future goals Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring conversations with founders and industry leaders making an impact! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve chats with Tom Waterhouse, a well-known name in Australian bookmaking and online betting. Tom opens up about his fascinating journey, from growing up in a family of bookmakers to launching his own online betting business, TomWaterhouse.com, in 2009. He shares how he went from being an on-course bookie to building a business that grew from 100 to a quarter of a million customers in just 18 months! After selling to William Hill in 2013, Tom became the CEO of William Hill Australia, overseeing a massive $2.5 billion turnover. But Tom wasn’t done yet—he’s now focused on a new adventure: his own venture fund, investing in tech suppliers for the gambling industry. He explains his unique option strategy and how he’s building a global portfolio. Timestamps: 00:18 – Meet Tom Waterhouse and a quick intro to his background 01:07 – From on-course bookie to launching TomWaterhouse.com 02:26 – Growing the online business and selling to William Hill 05:45 – Tom’s time as CEO of William Hill Australia 11:15 – Starting his venture fund and focusing on gambling tech suppliers 16:55 – The option strategy and finding the next big thing 19:30 – Diversification and expanding globally 27:00 – Why execution is everything when it comes to startup success 31:10 – What’s next for Tom and his fund Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more fun and insightful chats with founders and industry leaders shaking things up! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve welcomes Rafael Niesten, founder of Proptech Labs, a company revolutionising property management by handling essential back-end services like maintenance, inspections, and invoicing for residential properties. Rafael, a serial entrepreneur, shares his colorful journey, from running a mobile phone business and starting a youth radio station in Perth to tackling the challenges of the property tech space. Timestamps: 00:18 – Introduction to Rafael Niesten and Proptech Labs 01:07 – Overview of Proptech Labs and its back-end property services 02:26 – Rafael’s early ventures: mobile phones and community radio 05:45 – From Perth to Sydney: starting over and building new ventures 11:15 – Managing a medical IT company through a data breach 16:55 – Transition to Proptech Labs and the drive to innovate property management 19:30 – Expanding internationally and navigating different markets 27:00 – Reflections on resilience and the entrepreneurial journey 31:10 – Rafael’s future plans to mentor and give back Don’t forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more fascinating conversations with founders and industry leaders who are making an impact! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve sits down with Ben Ford, a fintech expert who’s been shaping Australia’s fintech landscape for over a decade. Ben shares his journey from corporate roles to becoming a key player in fintech, proptech, and logistics, recounting his early days with industry pioneers like Afterpay and Acorns. Beyond business, Ben opens up about his latest project—the Vanessa Ford Foundation, a new initiative inspired by personal loss and focused on mental health support for high-achieving professionals. Timestamps: 00:18 – Introduction to Ben Ford and his fintech journey 01:20 – Early days with Afterpay, Acorns, and fintech in Australia 06:14 – The evolution of fintech and Ben’s insights on the sector’s future 10:03 – Challenges in open banking and new fintech opportunities 16:25 – Proptech and logistics: Ben’s latest ventures in tech 19:00 – Launching the Vanessa Ford Foundation and its mission 23:15 – Remembering Vanessa and the motivation behind the foundation 26:00 – Future goals for the foundation and mental health advocacy 30:12 – Ben’s thoughts on upcoming tech trends and the next wave of startups Don’t forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring conversations with founders and innovators who are making an impact! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve sits down with Scott Berriman, founder of TenantX, a unique commercial property consultancy that’s all about representing tenants. Scott, who’s flying solo as a founder, dives into his transition from a long career in corporate real estate to building his own brand and business. Scott shares his journey from the early days working in retail leasing, through the highs and lows of corporate life, and what finally pushed him to go independent. He talks about how TenantX saves companies time and money by navigating lease negotiations, and he explains why having a dedicated tenant representative is crucial, even if many businesses don’t realise it. They also discuss the impacts of COVID-19 on the real estate market and how it led to many people reevaluating their careers. Timestamps: 00:18 – Introduction to Scott Berriman and TenantX 00:45 – What TenantX does and the role of a tenant rep 02:28 – Scott’s background: From retail leasing to office leasing 05:12 – The transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship 09:07 – Reflecting on the impact of COVID-19 and making life changes 13:46 – Challenges and rewards of running a solo business 16:34 – Strategies for business development and building a brand 21:00 – Handling setbacks and staying motivated 24:41 – Scott’s future plans and vision for TenantX Don’t forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more fascinating conversations with founders and industry leaders who are making an impact! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve welcomes back Jessica Baird Walsh, who has made big changes since her last appearance. Formerly the founder of Remote Social, Jessica now plays a key role in KPMG Futures, where she drives innovation, venture partnerships, and strategic collaborations with startups. Jessica shares insights on her new role, how KPMG is staying ahead in tech, and what it's like working with early-stage founders from the corporate side. She also dives into her personal life—raising three kids and running every day for two years straight! Timestamps: 00:18 - Jessica’s return: Big changes since Remote Social 01:02 - Jessica’s role at KPMG Futures explained 02:16 - Working with early-stage startups in a corporate setting 03:50 - Why KPMG continues to invest in innovation 06:23 - Jessica’s journey from Remote Social to KPMG 08:25 - Balancing startup and corporate cultures 09:48 - The resources and flexibility at KPMG 11:08 - How having three kids shapes Jessica’s work-life balance 13:32 - Jessica’s daily habit: Running for over 760 days straight! 18:20 - Launching her passion project, Capital X 24:37 - How Capital X is helping female founders find investors 27:16 - The future of work and AI: What’s next for Jessica? Don't forget to subscribe for more inspiring interviews with founders, innovators, and business leaders! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve Grace sits down with Damon Rahmate and Andrew Davey, the innovative minds behind Genevo Marine, as they prepare to launch Australia’s first luxury electric recreational boat. Steve, Damon, and Andrew dive into the creation of Genevo Marine, exploring how their backgrounds in boat building, electrical engineering, and renewable energy led them to develop a groundbreaking electric boat. Designed to offer a smoother, quieter, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional boats, Genevo Marine is poised to make waves in the rapidly growing electric boating industry. Damon and Andrew share their vision for the future of electric boating, discuss the importance of government support, and outline their strategy for showcasing the boat at international boat shows. They also touch on their unique career paths, the burgeoning market for electric boats, and the potential for Australia to become a leader in sustainable marine technology. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:18 - Meet Damon Rahmate and Andrew Davey of Genevo Marine 00:36 - The vision behind Australia’s first electric luxury boat 03:30 - Overcoming challenges in electric boat design 08:23 - The environmental benefits of electric boating 12:29 - Leveraging government support for innovation 15:36 - The growing market for electric boats 23:10 - Future plans for international expansion 27:09 - The evolution of sustainable marine technology Subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest conversations from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve Grace sits down with Timo Kugler, co-founder of Foodini, a cutting-edge platform designed to help people with dietary needs navigate the food world more easily. From gluten-free to vegan and everything in between, Foodini is simplifying dining for 33% of the global population with dietary restrictions. Timo shares the journey of launching Foodini, the growth of the app in Australia and the recent expansion into the U.S. market. He dives into how AI and a dedicated team of dietitians power the app, helping restaurants cater to dietary needs, while also improving their business operations. Timo also talks about his fascinating career journey, from MTV Europe to launching multiple startups, and how Foodini is positioned to reshape the future of food and hospitality. Timestamps: 00:00 – Meet Timo Kugler and the Foodini story 02:16 – Tackling dietary challenges with Foodini 04:33 – From MTV to startups: Timo’s wild career ride 07:10 – How Foodini makes dining safer for everyone 09:34 – AI and dietitians: The brains behind Foodini 11:52 – Boosting restaurant menus and revenue with Foodini 15:10 – Foodini’s big leap into the U.S. and beyond 19:34 – Fundraising and scaling: What’s next for Foodini? Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful interviews with founders, innovators, and industry leaders! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve chats with Elena Tsalanidis, Co-Founder of Deeligence, a cutting-edge legal tech startup that’s using AI to transform the traditionally tedious process of legal due diligence. Elena explains how Deeligence is cutting down the time lawyers spend on M&A due diligence, helping law firms improve accuracy and efficiency while reducing risk. Elena also shares her journey from being a corporate lawyer to becoming a tech founder, the challenges of building a secure AI-driven platform, and the future of AI in the legal world. She dives into the role of AI in legal workflows and discusses how Deeligence is poised to reshape the way law firms handle complex transactions. Timestamps: 00:45 – What Deeligence does and how Elena transitioned from law to legal tech 03:15 – The initial challenges of building an AI-driven platform 05:30 – How Deeligence uses AI to speed up the due diligence process 07:00 – Overcoming resistance from traditional law firms to adopt new technology 09:10 – The impact of AI on reducing manual work and improving efficiency for lawyers 11:45 – Ensuring security and confidentiality in a legal tech platform 13:30 – How Deeligence improves lawyer retention and client satisfaction 15:20 – Elena’s vision for the future of AI in the legal industry and what's next for Deeligence Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring conversations with startup founders and industry innovators! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve sits down with Thomas Telfer, Chief Operating Officer of Scimita Ventures, to explore how his company is driving innovation across industries, with a strong focus on science, engineering, and sustainability. Thomas shares his journey from studying pharmacology to leading a startup that helps companies turn early-stage tech ideas into tangible products. They dive into Scimita’s pioneering work in battery recycling and the circular economy, the transition from academia to entrepreneurship, and the exciting plans for expanding Scimita’s operations. Timestamps: 00:35 – What Scimita Ventures does 02:10 – Thomas’s background: From pharmacology to entrepreneurship 05:00 – Transitioning from academia to startups 07:45 – Working on innovative medical devices like non-invasive blood glucose monitors 10:15 – The impact of COVID-19 on product development and remote testing 12:30 – The importance of collaboration with universities and entrepreneurs 15:00 – Circular economy projects: Battery recycling and reducing waste 18:40 – Future plans: Expanding Scimita Ventures' operations to a new facility in Western Sydney Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more conversations with innovative startup founders & innovators! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve sits down with Michael Batko, CEO of Startmate, to dive into how he’s building one of the most successful startup accelerators in Australia. Michael shares the story of his journey from consulting to startups, the growth of Startmate, and his vision for the future. They discuss how Startmate is supporting founders, investors, and job seekers while scaling a vibrant startup community. Michael also gives a sneak peek into his productivity-focused side hustle and reveals his ambitious plan to build a "Startmate City" for founders and innovators. Timestamps: 00:18 - Welcome Michael Batko to the show 00:53 - What is Startmate and its mission 01:31 - Michael’s background in consulting and transition to startups 02:18 - Early days at Mad Paws and lessons from scaling startups 03:50 - The value of making mistakes in startups 06:49 - Trekking through the Amazon: Lessons from Michael’s travels 10:00 - Returning to Australia and the serendipity of landing at Startmate 13:09 - Setting up and scaling an incubator at Startmate 14:42 - The challenges of running a startup accelerator 16:00 - Michael’s thoughts on community-driven growth and marketing 17:05 - The vision for Startmate’s future and building "Startmate City" 20:48 - The success of Startmate’s investments and community-driven venture fund 24:00 - Michael’s productivity side hustle and teaching AI tools 26:13 - The hardest lessons Michael has learned in fundraising and people management Don't forget to subscribe for more great conversations with founders and innovators! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve chats with Scott King, co-founder of Zapme, an innovative global communications platform that simplifies international travel by providing seamless connectivity. Scott dives into the story of how Zapme was born out of the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic while working overseas, sparking the idea for a service that offers global numbers, data, and messaging—all in one app. Scott shares his entrepreneurial journey, from growing up in Alice Springs to working in Japan, Miami, and on cruise ships before founding Zapme. He reflects on the importance of solving problems, the lessons learned along the way, and Zapme’s potential to help not only travellers but professionals, recruiters, and even dating app users. Scott also offers a glimpse into Zapme’s exciting future, including plans to expand into B2B markets and how the platform can be used beyond travel. He emphasises the importance of building a global community and solving everyday communication challenges. Timestamps: 01:00 - What Zapme does and Scott’s inspiration 03:00 - The impact of COVID-19 on Zapme’s creation 06:45 - Scott’s entrepreneurial background: From Japan to cruise ships 09:30 - How Zapme solves global communication issues for travellers 13:00 - Expanding Zapme’s use cases: Recruiters, dating apps, and more 16:30 - Scott’s vision for Zapme’s future and the B2B market 19:00 - The importance of community and solving global problems Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring conversations with founders, innovators, and industry leaders! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve sits down with Ruth Hatherley, Founder & CEO of MoneyCatcha, a fintech company making waves by using open banking data to revolutionise the home loan process for consumers and brokers alike. Ruth shares the story of MoneyCatcha's evolution, starting from blockchain technology to leveraging open banking to democratise data and offer faster, more competitive home loan solutions. She dives into the impact of COVID-19 on the financial landscape, how the shift toward digital processes changed the game for brokers, and her passion for improving the customer experience in the home loan industry. Ruth also discusses the challenges of being a first-time founder, the resilience required to build a fintech startup, and her exciting plans for MoneyCatcha’s future, including expansion into other industries and markets. Timestamps: 00:57 - What MoneyCatcha does and Ruth's journey 03:30 - Shifting from blockchain to open banking 05:00 - The impact of COVID-19 on the home loan industry 07:45 - Helping brokers use data to provide better loan options 09:30 - Ruth’s personal journey from banking to fintech founder 12:00 - Open banking and its impact on consumers 15:00 - The future of MoneyCatcha: Expanding beyond banking 18:30 - Ruth's thoughts on resilience and growth as a founder Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more amazing conversations with startup founders, innovators, and industry leaders! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve Grace chats with Cameron Smith from Take2, a company that provides individuals who have had contact with the justice system a second chance at life through a three-year tech training and employment program. Cameron explains how Take2 offers not just technical training but also essential life skills, aiming to break down barriers and create employment pathways for those who have faced significant challenges. Cameron shares his journey into founding Take2, his background in recruitment, and how witnessing the discrimination faced by people with convictions inspired him to launch the organisation. The conversation dives into the difficulties of getting prisons, funders, and employment partners on board, and the challenges of implementing the program in both New Zealand and now Australia. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:10 - Take2's mission: A second chance for those in the justice system 02:03 - Cameron's background and inspiration for starting Take2 03:30 - Overcoming initial challenges in launching the program 05:00 - The transformative power of employment for marginalised individuals 07:00 - Launching in Australia: Adapting the model for a new market 09:30 - Building employer partnerships and breaking down prejudices 11:15 - Success stories from Take2's graduates 13:00 - How to get involved and support Take2’s mission Don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring stories from the world of startups, scaleups and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve sits down with Sophie Hood, founder of Seoul Tonic, to explore her journey of creating a unique health tonic inspired by South Korean traditions. Sophie shares her story from starting in consulting and finance to diving into the world of consumer health products. She discusses her fascination with Korean skincare, which led her to discover traditional ingredients that help with alcohol metabolism and liver detoxification. Timestamps: 01:17 - Quick pitch on Seoul Tonic 01:43 - Sophie's inspiration from South Korea 03:12 - Transition from consulting to Moet Hennessy 04:52 - Experience at Moet Hennessy and Red Bull 06:29 - Starting Seoul Tonic and creating the product 09:59 - Finding the right manufacturer during COVID 13:10 - Distribution challenges and initial marketing 15:59 - Winning Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars 21:04 - Expansion into international markets 25:35 - Bootstrapping the business and maintaining equity 30:26 - Future plans and new product launch Stay ahead of the curve—subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest conversations from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It a Nudge, Steve chats with Alex Kerr (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-kerr-6599b7197/), the founder of Kumo Study (https://www.kumostudy.com/), a study management tool for students with ADHD and other forms of neurodiversity. Steve and Alex discuss her journey from university to founding Kumo Study, the unique challenges she faced as a non-tech founder, and how she successfully bootstrapped the business. They also explore Kumo Study's innovative approach to digitising occupational therapy techniques to create an effective learning tool for neurodiverse students. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and setting the scene 00:18 - Meet Alex Kerr of Kumo Study 01:06 - Quick pitch on Kumo Study and its mission 02:21 - Alex’s background and journey to founding Kumo Study 03:13 - Realising the impact of ADHD on her own study habits 06:29 - Transition from university to startup life 09:18 - Importance of setting up the right study environment 12:30 - Features of Kumo Study: digitising occupational therapy techniques 15:00 - Addressing comorbidities: Dyslexia, Autism, and ADHD 20:21 - Bootstrapping and building Kumo Study 25:35 - Current state and future plans for Kumo Study This episode is perfect for anyone interested in how technology can support neurodiverse students in their academic journey, and how personal challenges can lead to innovative solutions. Stay ahead of the curve—subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest conversations from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve chats with Gabriela Scharf, Founder of Get Cool Brands. Gabriela's fascinating career journey takes centre stage as she shares her experiences moving from Brazil to Australia, working with major brands like Red Bull and WeWork, and eventually finding her passion in purpose-driven initiatives. Gabriela recounts the challenges of starting anew in Australia, initially working in hospitality before landing marketing roles. Her time at WeWork during COVID shaped her views on the importance of flexibility and community, leading her to focus on building communities and promoting sustainable brands through Get Cool Brands. Gabriela also discusses her role as an ambassador for the Community Collective, a global network for community managers, and emphasises the value of human interaction and community in a post-COVID world. Timestamps: 00:18 - Introduction to Gabriela Scharf 01:22 - Moving from Brazil to Australia 03:00 - Early career struggles and transition 06:19 - Working at WeWork during COVID 08:14 - Importance of community and human interaction 11:46 - Founding Get Cool Brands 15:20 - Supporting sustainable brands 18:24 - Ambassador role at Community Collective 21:50 - Future plans and goals Subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more inspiring stories from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve Grace chats with Jessie Hughes, Senior Creative Technologist at Leonardo.Ai, just days after their acquisition by Canva. Steve and Jessie discuss the groundbreaking features of Leonardo.Ai, a generative AI-powered content creation suite designed to democratize creativity by making high-quality content creation accessible to everyone. Jessie shares insights into the company’s rapid growth, innovative tools like real-time canvas doodling and high-resolution upscaling, and the strategic benefits of the Canva acquisition while maintaining Leonardo.Ai's independence. They also explore Jessie’s unique career path, from her background in interaction design and VR filmmaking to her role in the AI industry, highlighting the importance of adaptability and the transformative potential of AI in various sectors. The conversation touches on the future of AI, the balance between technological advancement and human creativity, and the collaborative efforts to ensure AI's positive impact on society. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:18 - Meet Jessie Hughes of Leonardo.Ai 00:36 - Canva's acquisition of Leonardo.Ai 03:30 - Overview of Leonardo.Ai's tools and features 08:23 - Democratizing creativity with AI 12:29 - Jessie's career journey and impact of AI 15:36 - Synergy between Leonardo.Ai and Canva 23:10 - Future of AI and creative industries 27:09 - Navigating rapid technological advancements Subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest conversations from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve chats with Stephen Zilioli, the Founder & CEO of PostLock (https://www.postlock.com.au/), a revolutionary new savings product designed to help aspiring homeowners keep up with runaway property prices. Steve and Stephen discuss the journey from a stable banking career to founding PostLock, the difficulties of navigating government regulations, and the unique approach PostLock takes in partnering with governments to provide secure, inflation-adjusted returns for home savers. They also explore the significant progress made in the UK, the strategy behind choosing the UK market, and the future plans for expansion and capital raising. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:18 - Meet Stephen Zilioli of PostLock 00:33 - Quick pitch on PostLock and its mission 03:30 - Challenges of saving for home deposits 08:23 - How PostLock works 12:29 - Flexibility and potential exceptions 15:36 - Government partnerships and UK progress 23:10 - Raising capital and ideal investors 27:09 - Surprises and easiest aspects of the journey Stay ahead of the curve—subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest conversations from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this very exciting episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve sits down with Dickie, known as "the hype man" for the Australian tech and innovation ecosystem. Dickie talks about his unique career path, starting from law school and the Territorial Army, moving on to become a Moroccan country specialist in the travel industry, and finally diving into the Australian startup world. He shares his colourful experiences and the impactful roles he's had, highlighting his passion for promoting Australian innovation. Steve and Dickie discuss his move from Melbourne to Sydney and his impact on the startup community through roles at Startup Victoria and his current project, Tech Australia Advocates. This initiative aims to connect the Australian tech ecosystem with global partners and create a more inclusive community. Dickie also talks about his dedication to creating meaningful content and fostering innovation. He reveals his long-term dream of becoming a travel writer, telling global innovation stories and linking them to Australia. Timestamps: 00:18 - Introduction to Dickie, the hype man 01:08 - Dickie's unique career journey 06:19 - Startup experiences in Australia 10:02 - Role at Startup Victoria and Tech Australia Advocates 18:43 - Moving from Melbourne to Sydney 22:00 - Dickie's dedication to content creation and innovation 26:45 - Balancing work-life and avoiding burnout 32:15 - Dickie's long-term dream of becoming a travel writer 36:30 - Importance of diversity and inclusion in tech 40:50 - Final thoughts and future outlook Subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest insights from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It a Nudge, Steve chats with Melissa Reader, the founder and CEO of Violet (https://www.violet.org.au/), a pioneering virtual care platform dedicated to supporting individuals and their families during the last stage of life. Steve and Melissa talk about her shift from consulting to starting Violet, the unique challenges she faced as a non-tech founder in a tech world, and how she successfully bootstrapped the business while keeping control. They also cover Violet’s innovative approach to blending humanity and technology to offer scalable, impactful solutions. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and setting the scene 00:18 - Meet Melissa Reader of Violet 01:17 - Quick pitch on Violet and its mission 03:12 - Transition from consulting to founding Violet 04:52 - Melissa’s personal story and inspiration behind Violet 06:29 - Building Violet: Combining humanity and technology 09:59 - Overcoming challenges in a non-tech founder journey 13:10 - Distribution challenges and initial marketing strategies 15:59 - Winning support and recognition for Violet’s mission 21:04 - Expansion into international markets and future plans 25:35 - Bootstrapping Violet and maintaining equity 30:26 - Future plans and new product launch This episode is perfect for anyone interested in how technology can be used to support people during one of the most challenging times in life, and how personal experiences can drive impactful innovation. Stay ahead of the curve—subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest conversations from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve talks with Bardia Khalilifar, the Founder of Conicio Advisory. Bardia shares his journey from the corporate tech world to founding his own consulting firm. Initially working as a programmer and network engineer, he transitioned into sales and partnerships, holding executive roles over a 20-year career. His move from corporate life to entrepreneurship was driven by his desire to apply his skills in a more dynamic environment. Steve and Bardia discuss the challenges of leaving a stable corporate job for the uncertainty of entrepreneurship. Bardia highlights the importance of building networks and continuous learning to keep up with rapidly evolving technology. He also talks about mentoring interns and the value of understanding market needs to provide tailored consulting services. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and setting the scene 00:18 - Meet Bardia Khalilifar of Conicio Advisory 02:05 - Founding Conicio Advisory and its mission 06:05 - Bardia’s first client and early successes 12:14 - Building a future vision for Conicio Advisory 14:00 - Challenges of starting a business from scratch 18:25 - Balancing growth and innovation in a consulting firm Stay ahead of the curve—subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest insights from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve is joined by Neelan Sornalingam, a financial advisor passionate about transforming how clients manage and think about their finances. During their talk, Neelan explains the importance of having clear, defined life and financial goals before getting into the nuts and bolts of financial planning. He believes that aligning financial strategies with personal dreams, whether those are as straightforward as saving for retirement or as unique as buying an island or starting a bee farm, is crucial. The conversation also touches on Neelan's insights into personal growth, the benefits of building a strong team around him, and his commitment to continuously improving the services his firm offers. They discuss the broader effects of financial planning, like how it influences lifestyle choices, helps ease financial stress, and the deep satisfaction Neelan gets from making a real difference in his clients' lives. Neelan wraps up by sharing his excitement about the future and his ongoing efforts to make his firm even better. For more inspiring stories about entrepreneurship, startups, and high-growth businesses, don't forget to subscribe to Give It A Nudge for weekly episodes. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve chats with Damien Cooley of Cooley Auctions. Damien shares his journey from starting out in real estate to becoming a well-known auctioneer, recognised by his signature orange tie. He discusses his unique approach to auctioneering, emphasising the role of energy, strategy, and marketing in his success. Damien also talks about the challenges and breakthroughs he has faced, including how he adapted his business to incorporate online auctions before the pandemic made it a necessity. He gives insights into the psychological tactics used in auctions and the importance of staying detached as an auctioneer to ensure fairness and transparency. The discussion covers practical advice for new real estate professionals and Damien’s thoughts on the future of auctioneering. He also shares personal stories about the highs and lows of his career, offering a glimpse into the day-to-day realities of the auction world. For more stories on entrepreneurship and tips from industry leaders, make sure to subscribe to Give It A Nudge and tune in next week for another episode. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this long-awaited episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve finally has the chance to sit down with Mike Langford, Head of VC & Startup Ecosystem JAPAC at Google Cloud. Mike discusses his role at Google, overseeing the VC and startup ecosystem across Asia-Pacific. He shares his 12-year journey with the company, his passion for technology, and the strategic moves that led to his current position. Mike covers Google’s Digital Futures initiative, a $1 billion commitment to advancing Australia’s digital landscape, highlighting projects like AI research centres and environmental efforts in the Great Barrier Reef and kelp forests. The conversation includes how Google supports startups through tools, credits, and mentorship, helping them start, build, grow, and scale. Mike emphasises the importance of balancing passion with practical business strategies and staying aligned with evolving revenue models. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI, its rapid advancements, and its applications across various industries. Mike stresses the need for an innovative mindset and embracing AI as a tool for growth and efficiency. Mike explains why startups should choose Google Cloud, citing its user-friendly interface, cost-effectiveness, and comprehensive support. He highlights Google’s commitment to open-source models and fostering innovation within the startup community. Timestamps: 00:44 - Mike's journey to Google 01:20 - Role at Google Cloud and focus areas 02:35 - Mike’s tech background and early career 03:40 - Transition to non-tech roles at Google 05:11 - Building a role in the startup space 06:11 - Digital Futures initiative and key projects 09:50 - Environmental and medical partnerships 11:35 - Supporting startups through various stages 14:00 - Importance of balancing passion and practicality 16:18 - Impact of AI and its future applications 19:45 - Why choose Google Cloud for startups? 23:10 - Final thoughts and future outlook Subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest insights from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
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In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve sits down with Sam Wood, the CEO & Co-Founder of Azura Fashion Group, to discuss the innovative journey of his company. Sam shares the origin story of Azura Fashion Group, which started in 2019 with a mission to provide a better solution for luxury fashion brands to manage their off-season and postseason stock. The company helps brands like Dolce & Gabbana by moving their excess inventory into new markets rather than traditional outlet stores, thereby maintaining brand value. Throughout the interview, Sam discusses how Azura Fashion Group has grown to operate in 28 countries, partnering with over 900 brands, and how their AI-driven platform has revolutionised their operations by handling data enrichment and order management efficiently. He also talks about the company’s upcoming launch into the Korean market and plans for further expansion. Sam emphasises the importance of leveraging technology to scale without increasing operational costs and highlights the success of their recent $3 million investment raise. The conversation also touches on the company's commitment to supporting Australian designers and retailers by helping them reach international markets. For those interested in investing, Sam discusses their crowdfunding campaign and the unique benefits for investors, including potential luxury fashion perks. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:41 - What is Azura Fashion Group? 01:26 - The initial concept and market disruption 02:53 - Landing the first big client: Dolce & Gabbana 04:03 - Sam’s background in sales and marketing 06:08 - The leap from employment to entrepreneurship 07:26 - The importance of stress and adrenaline in business 08:15 - The company’s growth journey and technological advancements 08:44 - Expanding globally and leveraging AI for data management 11:00 - Innovative AI platform using Google, Microsoft, and Amazon technologies 13:16 - Zero-inventory model and digital consignment 14:05 - Current scale and brand partnerships 14:50 - The challenge and opportunity of circular fashion 17:10 - Future plans and market expansion 20:52 - Scaling with AI and crowdfunding plans 22:10 - Final thoughts and call to action Subscribe for more insights into the world of startups, scale-ups, and high-growth businesses, and don’t miss out on this exciting episode with Sam Wood! Links: Azura Fashion Group website - https://www.azurafashiongroup.com/ Crowdfunding campaign - https://www.onmarket.com.au/offers/azura-consulting-eoi/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve visits the Honey Insurance offices to talk with Richard Joffe, the Founder & CEO. Richard shares the story behind Honey Insurance, a digital home insurance company aiming to simplify and improve the insurance experience in Australia. He explains how his move from San Francisco to Australia highlighted the need for a more modern and customer-friendly insurance service. Richard discusses his background, from growing up in South Africa and Canada to his experiences building businesses in London, New York, and San Francisco. He talks about the challenges of starting Honey Insurance, navigating Australia's competitive market, and overcoming regulatory hurdles. You'll hear about the inspiration for the name "Honey Insurance," the company's new partnership with Aldi, and their plans to offer better deals to customers. Richard also talks about the importance of company values, maintaining a close-knit team, and the effort required to secure funding and grow a startup. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and setting the scene 00:24 - What is Honey Insurance? 01:06 - The inspiration behind Honey Insurance 02:15 - Challenges in traditional insurance models 03:18 - The Australian market and its unique challenges 06:11 - Richard's background and journey to entrepreneurship 09:32 - Identifying the opportunity in the insurance industry 12:09 - Regulatory hurdles and market entry challenges 14:03 - Why "Honey Insurance"? 15:13 - Honey Insurance’s launch and early successes 18:00 - High technical talent in Australia 20:18 - Fundraising challenges and strategies 22:44 - New partnership with Aldi 25:01 - Growth plans and maintaining company culture 27:14 - Importance of company values and hiring standards 30:48 - Closing thoughts and future plans Stay ahead of the curve—subscribe to Give It A Nudge for the latest insights from top startups, scale-ups, and high-growth companies! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
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In this episode of Give It A Nudge, Steve reconnects with Ali Lord, CEO of Headbox Australia, two years after their first interview during the early days of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Ali talks about how Headbox navigated the challenges brought by the pandemic and the changes within the events industry. Starting with a small team during the pandemic, Headbox adapted by focusing on market expansion and improving their technology. This technology now helps corporate clients and venues manage events more efficiently and sustainably, reflecting the growing global focus on environmental responsibility. Ali shares how Headbox has grown into a diverse team that offers innovative and practical event solutions across Australia. Their technology simplifies event planning and incorporates sustainability practices. For those interested in business resilience and innovation, this episode with Ali provides practical insights into overcoming challenges and adapting to change. Make sure you subscribe to Give It A Nudge for more discussions on technology, entrepreneurship, and business trends. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
Join us on this episode of Give It A Nudge where host Steve chats with Cheryl Mack, CEO of Aussie Angels. Cheryl takes us through her journey from Toronto to becoming a key player in Australia’s startup scene. She shares her insights into the evolution of Aussie Angels, her experiences with angel investing, and the growing startup ecosystem in Australia. 🔗 Useful Links: Connect with Cheryl on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylmack/ Check out Aussie Angels to explore investment opportunities: https://www.aussieangels.com/ Find helpful tips and guides for founders and investors on Mack's Resources: https://macksresources.com/ Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more interesting talks with the movers and shakers of the startup world! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/give-it-a-nudge--4623437/support .…
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