In this episode, I sit down with Mouaz Alnouri, a long-time friend and someone I’ve worked with closely over a number of years as he built and scaled his business Skillfield.

Mouaz is the founder of Skillfield, a data and cybersecurity consultancy working with some of Australia’s largest telcos, utilities and enterprise organisations. When we first started working together, Mouaz was doing what most founders do early on, selling, delivering, leading the team and carrying a lot of the load himself. Since then, the business has grown, the team has expanded, and Mouaz has transitioned into an executive chairman role where his focus is strategy, leadership and where the business goes next.

We talk about that shift and why moving from operator to leader is one of the hardest parts of building a business. It sounds good on paper. In reality, letting go is uncomfortable, slow and very easy to get wrong. Mouaz shares how coaching, board training and completing his MBA helped him step back, zoom out and build a structure that does not rely on one person holding everything together.

We also get into Mouaz’s journey into Australia. Growing up in Damascus, working across the Middle East and Africa, migrating with his young family, and starting a business without an established network. It’s not a journey untraveled but it’s a challenging one and Mouaz’s approach became an inspiration for how I run my business after I met him. 

Partnerships and values are a big part of this conversation. Mouaz is clear on what he will and will not compromise on, including walking away from revenue when it puts culture or people at risk. As he puts it, “If the short-term win does not take you to a long-term win, then it is a distraction.” It’s a mindset that explains a lot about how Skillfield has grown.

We also talk cybersecurity without the usual fear-based noise. Mouaz breaks down what actually matters for small and medium businesses, why it does not need to be complex or expensive, and why most security issues still come back to people, habits and basic discipline.

One of my favourite parts of the episode is Mouaz’s approach to learning, which is refreshingly practicall. “Don’t do learning for the sake of learning. Identify the problem you need to solve, then go and learn.” a lot of people go around collecting qualifications for the sake of it, in the end it doesn’t always get you anywhere meaningful without intention. 

This was Mouaz’s first ever podcast, and I was glad to do it with him. If you are building a business, thinking about how to scale without burning yourself out, or navigating the jump from founder to leader, there’s plenty in this conversation for you.

You can connect with Mouaz on LinkedIn or learn more about Skillfield online.

Connect on LinkedIn

Check out Skillfield's Website

In this episode of Build Your Own Business, I sit down with Lisa Middleton - advanced sports dietitian, long-time client, and someone I’ve known for over 15 years.

Lisa’s career is a little different to many of the business owners we’ve had on the show. She’s worked with elite athletes, AFL and basketball clubs, netball teams, the VIS, and corporate groups - all while flexing her work around her family and life. What stands out about Lisa’s journey is the way she’s built a career with intention. She’s chosen work that fits, not just chased every opportunity that came her way.

We talk about the early days - from her first job in a deli, to hustling for clients out of a tiny gym office when no one would hire her, to landing roles at Essendon, Collingwood and Melbourne. We get into how much of her career came down to creating opportunities, not waiting for them. And why relationships, referrals, and reputation matter more than formal job ads.

Lisa also shares the balance she’s found over 25 years in sports nutrition: working at the highest level while making space for family, writing a book, and picking projects that bring her energy. We cover the reality of self-employment, contract roles, and how building a personal brand gave her options at every stage.

What I loved most was Lisa’s honesty about the choices she’s made - turning down work to spend time with her kids, finding flexibility in her business, and knowing when to say yes and when to step back.

“You can’t just sit at home waiting for the phone to ring. If you want to build a career, you have to create your own opportunities - talk to people, get out there, and make it happen.”

This episode is packed with insights for anyone thinking about how to build a career that works around your life, not the other way around.
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In this episode of the Build Your Own Business podcast, I sit down with David Murdoch the Wealth Activist and founder of Paxton Bridge.

David’s been in the game for 15 years, guiding family groups, business owners and executives through the messy, often emotional world of money. But what makes his approach different is that it’s not about “wealth management” – it’s about Wealth Activism. It’s a mindset shift: from simply parking money in the bank, to actually activating resources so they create experiences, build legacy, and bring families closer together.

We dive into some big topics - like why business owners often stumble into success but then freeze when it comes to what’s next. How intergenerational wealth isn’t just about passing down money, but values and education. Why the greatest asset isn’t dollars in the account, but the time you choose to spend with family. And how succession planning, estate planning and even the conversations around money are often left until it’s too late.

David also shares his personal journey - from paper rounds and early corporate life at UBS, to taking the leap into his own business. He reflects on the grind, the shiny-object distractions, and the lessons from building a business that’s as much about relationships as it is about numbers.

For me, the conversation hit home when we talked about the balance between saving for tomorrow and actually enjoying life today. As David put it, wealth isn’t about locking it away – it’s about using it with intention.

“Wealth activism is about choices. It’s about using the resources you’ve worked so hard to create in a way that brings you joy, gives back to others, and creates memories that outlast the dollars. Money in the bank is nice - but money that creates experiences with the people you love? That’s real wealth.”

This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever wondered what happens after the success – when the question shifts from “how do I earn more” to “what do I do with what I’ve got?”

David's LinkedIn Profile

Paxton Bridge Website

In this episode of the BYOB Podcast, I sat down with a relatively new client and someone I’ve really enjoyed getting to know, Schalk Kock. Schalk is the founder of Innovatec, a management and technology consulting firm, and his story is a great reminder that building a business doesn’t always follow a straight line – sometimes it takes you halfway around the world.

Originally from South Africa, Schalk’s career has seen him work across major consulting firms, start his own business, spend time in the banking sector, and eventually immigrate to Australia, where he’s now launched Innovatec. What I love about Schalk’s story is the mix of technical expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and his constant hunger for new challenges.

We talked about everything from his early days working in his father’s pharmaceutical store, to how he discovered a passion for technology and data, and why moving countries taught him just as much about business as any project ever could.

Schalk also shared some brilliant insights on why data is at the heart of nearly every business challenge today, and how Innovatec is helping clients tackle strategy, transformation, data governance and regulatory compliance in a practical, down-to-earth way.

But what really stuck with me was his answer to the question I always love to ask – what advice would you give your younger self? His response was simple but powerful:“Be more bold. Go for the opportunities in front of you. You’re not always going to succeed, but that’s how you learn – and that’s how you grow.”

Whether you’re thinking about starting your own business, leading teams, or just curious about the journey behind Innovatec, you’ll enjoy this one.

Innovatec Website

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In this episode of the BYOB podcast, I sat down with long-time friend, marketing specialist and our Queensland Social Star City Leader, Dyon Swanborough. We talked through his 20-plus years in marketing, his deep love of tech and sound, and his practical, no-fluff approach to helping clients move people through the messy middle of the marketing funnel.

Dyon has a gift for translating complexity into simple, actionable systems. Whether it’s choosing the right software, designing a customer journey that actually converts, or automating the warm-up phase between interest and sales, he has a way of making it all feel human. I brought him on because I know firsthand how valuable his insights are — not just to our business, but to anyone trying to grow a brand in today’s market.

We swapped stories about our early days in business, the importance of curiosity, and how Dyon’s first brush with marketing came via a fax machine and a Peter Sun book. It lit a spark that turned into a lifelong pursuit of understanding what makes people tick — and how to serve them better. Over the years, he’s soaked up learnings from seminars, books, and decades of hands-on experience, refining his craft at the intersection of marketing and technology.

Our conversation also touched on the power of automation when done well, and how tools like the Social Star Hub (based on Go High Level) can dramatically reduce the manual effort in nurturing leads, without compromising personalisation. Dyon’s perspective on software is refreshing — he doesn’t get swept up in hype, but instead focuses on how tools can genuinely help businesses offer more value and guide clients with less friction.

One of the most powerful moments in our chat came when I asked Dyon what advice he would give someone just starting out. His answer was simple, sharp and so true:

“Have you got something that will feed a starving crowd? Because if no one wants it, it doesn’t matter how much you love it or how good you think it is. You need to validate it. Talk to people. Charge something for it. See if they’ll actually pay.”

It’s advice a lot of people skip over — jumping straight into branding or tech before truly testing the offer. But as Dyon points out, the best marketing starts with a hungry market and a clear value proposition.

If you're in the early stages of business or struggling to bridge that tricky gap between awareness and sales, I reckon you'll get a lot from this episode. Dyon’s experience, pragmatism and straight-talking style bring a lot of clarity to the chaos of modern marketing.

In this episode of the Build Your Own Business podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with the effervescent and insightful Michelle Letho - someone who first stood out to me at a networking event for her warmth, curiosity and a knack for making meaningful connections.

Michelle isn’t your typical corporate escapee. She’s had a fascinating career across major companies like Mars and Simplot, but what really piqued my interest was her recent pivot into the tech space - joining a startup called Willyama Together, an Indigenous-owned Atlassian Solutions Partner. It’s a business with a purpose, helping organisations implement their Reconciliation Action Plans through tech services. But more than the role itself, Michelle’s approach to work and life is what makes her remarkable.

We dug deep into her background, from pumping petrol at 14 in her family’s small-town garage to studying economics by correspondence because her school didn’t offer it. That drive, that desire for independence, and the grounding influence of her beloved grandmother Rita really shaped her outlook on life.

Michelle talks about the power of curiosity, the importance of listening (really listening), and how networking isn’t just about collecting business cards - it’s about connecting with people, being helpful without expectation, and playing the long game. She shares brilliant insights into how to approach networking with generosity and purpose, and why it helped her land her current role without even applying for a single job online.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to build a meaningful professional network or make a career shift later in life. Michelle’s wisdom is real, practical, and generously given.

Hope you enjoy this chat as much as I did.

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Upcoming event

Willyama Togetha

In this episode of the BYOB Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Carol Cooke AM - a Paralympic gold medallist, author, keynote speaker, and all-around powerhouse - for a truly inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what it means to turn adversity into opportunity.

Carol shares her remarkable journey from being a competitive swimmer in Canada to becoming a decorated Australian Paralympian in cycling. But her story isn’t just about sport - it’s about strength in the face of life’s toughest curveballs. Diagnosed with MS at the age of 36, Carol was told she’d never compete again. Instead, she defied expectations, rebuilt her life, and ended up representing Australia at three Paralympic Games, taking home multiple gold medals. Talk about a comeback.

We talk about how it feels to have your entire identity shaken - and how Carol found new purpose by focusing on what she could do, rather than what she couldn’t. Her mindset is a masterclass in resilience. Carol speaks about embracing possibility, not limitation, and how that simple shift helped her rewrite her story.

Carol also takes us through her work outside of sport, including the 1,000+ kilometre charity ride she started to support others living with MS and her passion for public speaking. She’s a firm believer that we all have untapped strength within us - sometimes, we just need the right challenge to reveal it.

I reflect on how Carol’s story reinforces a powerful truth: success isn’t just about the wins - it’s about showing up, again and again, especially when things don’t go to plan. Her outlook is both grounding and uplifting, reminding us that no matter what life throws our way, we always have a choice in how we respond.

Carol also shares the process behind writing her books and how storytelling has become another way for her to connect, empower, and inspire others. We also touch on how sport and business both demand discipline, structure, and a deep understanding of your “why”.

Whether you’re chasing a dream, navigating a setback, or just in need of a mindset reset, this episode is a must-listen. Carol’s energy, humour, and unstoppable spirit will leave you rethinking what’s possible.

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In this episode of the BYOB Podcast, I sit down with my good mate, business coach, and author Darren Bourke for an insightful and lively chat about what it really takes to build a successful business. Darren has spent years helping SME owners find their footing, and today, he’s spilling the secrets on how to run a business without it running you. From his early days crunching numbers at Deloitte to carving out his own path in business coaching, Darren shares how he made the leap from corporate stability to entrepreneurial freedom—and why he’d never go back.

Darren and I swap stories about the rollercoaster of business ownership, touching on the highs, the lows, and the absolute necessity of having a coach or mentor in your corner. We dive into the psychology of leadership, revealing why so many business owners find themselves stressed out, time-poor, and on the verge of burnout. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t have to be that way. Darren breaks down his three-pronged approach—consultant, coach, and mentor—and how this tailored strategy helps business owners regain control, reduce stress, and actually enjoy the businesses they’ve built.

The conversation turns to one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face: time versus money. Everyone wants more of both, but Darren explains why it’s about striking the right balance rather than chasing one at the expense of the other. I reflect on my own business journey, agreeing that finding a structure that works for you is the key to longevity and success. We also tackle one of the most overlooked aspects of business—the human element. Numbers might drive decisions, but people drive businesses, and knowing how to manage and lead effectively can make all the difference.

Darren shares his journey writing his book—a process he likens to running a business itself. It’s full of unexpected twists, requires discipline, and in the end, is all about delivering value. We also touch on Darren’s love for learning, from screenwriting courses to new business ventures, proving that curiosity and adaptability are two of the greatest assets any entrepreneur can have.

Darren also imparts some gold for anyone thinking of making the leap into business. He stresses the importance of learning your craft, embracing structure, and being brutally honest about what you’re good at (and what you’re not). 

If you’re an entrepreneur—or thinking about becoming one—this episode is packed with actionable insights, a few laughs, and plenty of motivation to get out there and build something great.

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In this episode ofBuild Your Own Business (BYOB), I reconnect with my longtime friend and former colleague James McCracken, an expert mortgage broker coach. James shares his journey from corporate roles at Sensis and Hewlett-Packard to becoming a dedicated business coach helping mortgage brokers grow and scale their businesses.

James and I talk about his transition into entrepreneurship, the challenges of starting his own business, and the key lessons he has learned along the way. He explains the importance of coaching not just for operational success but for personal and professional transformation. Through group-based coaching and one-on-one consulting, James helps mortgage brokers elevate their businesses by fostering the right mindset, strategic decision-making, and leadership skills.

A significant theme in our conversation is the evolution of James’ career. He delves into his early entrepreneurial ventures, including selling cupcakes as a child, his experiences working abroad in Canada and Turkey, and his passion for personal development. James highlights how his corporate experience in sales and training shaped his coaching philosophy, emphasising the value of continuous learning and adaptability.

We also explore business development, the power of networking, and how embracing an abundance mindset has transformed James’ approach to entrepreneurship. His perspective on scaling a business while maintaining consistency offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to grow their own venture. One of the most insightful pieces of advice James shares is:"Creating a mindset of abundance is essential. The people who have an abundance orientation tend to see and create more opportunities, and that optimism helps them embrace challenges with confidence."

James also gives us a glimpse into his latest initiatives, including his upcoming business summit in Thailand, where he merges business coaching with unique networking experiences. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a business owner navigating growth challenges, or someone interested in personal development, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

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In this episode of Build Your Own Business (BYOB), Andrew Ford sits down with Iyari Cevallos, the Co-Founder of Nucleo Group, to explore her remarkable journey from receptionist to entrepreneur. Iyari’s story is one of adaptability, determination, and innovation, as she navigated a dynamic career path while raising six children and building a consultancy that transforms organisations through leadership development and cultural alignment.

Nucleo Group specialises in helping leadership teams galvanise their efforts and align their strategies with organisational goals. Iyari explains how her business focuses on addressing challenges at the highest levels of organisations, often working with C-suite executives and boards. What sets Nucleo Group apart is its commitment to creating lasting change—not just through leadership workshops but by following up with ongoing coaching and support.

Throughout the episode, Iyari shares how her multicultural upbringing between Mexico and Australia has influenced her personal brand and professional approach. She also discusses the significance of her name, its roots in the indigenous Huichol language, and how her heritage inspired the branding of Nucleo Group. For Iyari, staying connected to her cultural identity is a way to honour her past while building a meaningful future.

The conversation also highlights the challenges of building a business with her life partner. Iyari shares how she and her partner have managed to create a balance between their professional and personal lives by embracing clear communication, shared responsibilities, and a mutual commitment to their vision.

A key theme in this episode is how Iyari balances her career ambitions with her family life. As a mother of six, she talks about the importance of planning, focus, and letting go of guilt. For her, being present in each moment—whether it’s work or family time—is critical to achieving harmony. She credits her ability to prioritise and maintain a "whole of life" perspective as essential to her success, both personally and professionally.

Iyari’s advice on maintaining balance is particularly impactful: “Get really clear about what’s important to you, so that you can protect what matters and flex on what doesn’t.” This philosophy underpins her ability to successfully navigate the complexities of a thriving career and a large family, making her journey relatable and inspiring for listeners.

Finally, Iyari gives listeners a sneak peek into her upcoming podcast, Empower Tech. This new venture aims to demystify the role of technology in our personal and professional lives. Through insightful conversations with diverse guests, the podcast will explore topics such as responsible AI use, technology’s impact on children, and the importance of inclusivity in tech development. Iyari’s goal is to empower her audience with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the fast-evolving tech landscape.

This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to balance a fulfilling career with their personal priorities. Whether you’re a business leader, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone interested in creating meaningful change, Iyari’s story will resonate deeply.

LinkedIn 

Nucleo Group Website

Iyari’s Website