Coast & Commerce

In the last episode of the Forward Thinking podcast special season, host Ben Amos interviews Peter Deans, founder of Goru World and author of the Startup Toolkit. They discuss the importance of supporting startups, the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, and the innovative ecosystem on the Sunshine Coast. Peter shares insights from his extensive experience in finance and consulting, emphasising the need for market research and practical tools for aspiring business owners. The conversation highlights the significance of in-person events like FWD Fest in fostering collaboration and innovation.

Takeaways

• Peter Deans emphasises the importance of supporting startups.
• The Startup Toolkit provides practical guidance for entrepreneurs.
• Market research is crucial to determine if a product is needed.
• Cash flow management is essential for startup success.
• In-person events foster collaboration and innovation.
• The Sunshine Coast has a vibrant startup ecosystem.
• Goru World aims to unleash potential in young entrepreneurs.
• Peter's background in finance informs his approach to startups.
• The book includes a glossary to demystify business terminology.
• Networking and community engagement are vital for business growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to FWD Fest 2025

01:24 Peter Deans and Goru World

03:39 The Startup Toolkit Overview

06:59 The Importance of a Structured Guide

11:03 Key Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

12:27 Conclusion and Future of Forward Fest

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-08

In the 7th episode of the Forward Thinking podcast, Ben Amos interviews Owen Bowling, co-founder and CEO of Coach Welly, a health technology platform. Owen shares his journey in the fitness industry, the evolution of Coach Welly, and the importance of community and collaboration in the entrepreneurial ecosystem on the Sunshine Coast. He discusses the challenges of differentiating in a competitive market and his vision for enhancing health and wellbeing opportunities for government employees. The conversation emphasises the significance of in-person events and networking for startup success.

Takeaways

• Owen Bowling exemplifies the spirit of a successful startup founder.
• Coach Welly aims to bridge the gap in health improvement.
• The platform connects various aspects of user wellbeing.
• B2B strategy is key to Coach Welly's market approach.
• The wellness app market is highly competitive.
• Government employees often lack health and wellbeing support.
• Collaboration is crucial for startup growth.
• In-person events enhance networking opportunities.
• The Sunshine Coast has potential for entrepreneurial growth.
• Access to early-stage capital remains a challenge.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Owen Bowling and Coach Welly

02:50 The Evolution of Coach Welly

05:35 Market Strategy and Differentiation

08:45 The Role of Ecosystem in Startup Success

11:41 Vision for the Sunshine Coast's Entrepreneurial Future

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-07

In today’s episode of the Forward Thinking Podcast, Ben Amos interviewed Liz Boyd from the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective live at FWDFest 2025 to discuss the growth and development of the film and screen industry on the Sunshine Coast. They explore the role of the Screen Collective in fostering collaboration among filmmakers, the economic impact of the screen industry on the greater local community, and the opportunities available for not just aspiring filmmakers. The conversation highlights the importance of networking and collaboration at events like FWDFest, and provides information on how to get involved in the screen industry.

Takeaways

• The Sunshine Coast Screen Collective is fostering the local screen industry.
• Collaboration is key to the growth of the film industry.
• There are various branches within the Screen Collective, including Showdown and Film Sunshine Coast.
• The industry is evolving, allowing local talent to stay in the region.
• Training programs are being developed to support aspiring filmmakers.
• The economic impact of the screen industry extends beyond just filmmakers.
• Networking events like Forward Fest are crucial for industry connections.
• Opportunities exist for various roles beyond just creative positions in film.
• The Screen Collective provides resources and support for filmmakers.
• Community engagement is essential for the growth of the screen industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective

01:22 The Role of the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective

04:57 Growing the Film Industry on the Sunshine Coast

07:19 Economic Impact of the Screen Industry

09:08 Networking and Collaboration at Forward Fest

10:34 Opportunities for Aspiring Filmmakers

13:10 Connecting with the Screen Collective

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-06

This episode of the Forward Thinking Podcast features interviews with Jared Cunningham from Ravinn, a cybersecurity company, and Zach Cole from PicSEO.ai, an innovative image optimisation tool. Hosted by Ben Amos, the conversation explores the importance of cybersecurity for businesses of all sizes, the challenges of scaling a tech startup, and the value of networking and collaboration within the entrepreneurial community. Both guests share their journeys, insights, and the impact of events like the Sunshine Coast’s FWDFest on their businesses.

Takeaways

• Cybersecurity is essential for businesses of all sizes.
• Small businesses are often targeted by low-level hackers.
• Networking and collaboration can significantly aid business growth.
• Understanding your core values is crucial for sustainable success.
• AI can streamline processes and enhance productivity.
• Events like FWDFest foster valuable connections and insights.
• Entrepreneurship can be isolating, but community support is vital.
• Innovative tools can simplify complex tasks for business owners.
• Scaling a business requires a solid foundation and strategic planning.
• Continuous learning from industry peers is beneficial for growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and Innovation

04:05 Jared Cunningham's Journey with Ravinn.com

09:20 The Importance of Networking and Collaboration

13:03 Zach Cole and the Launch of PicSEO.ai

20:26 Navigating the Fast-Paced AI Landscape

Click here for more - https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-05

In this fourth episode of the Forward Thinking Podcast, Ben Amos chats with two inspiring entrepreneurs at Forward Fest 2025: Pam McLean and Chandni Arora, who share their journeys of building businesses rooted in passion and values. Pam discusses her experience in the childcare industry and how she focuses on creating a nurturing environment for children and staff alike. Chandni shares her transition from a corporate career to coaching women, emphasising the importance of support and empowerment. Both guests highlight the significance of community, innovation, and personal growth in their respective fields.

Takeaways

• Passion is the foundation of successful entrepreneurship.
• Building a business is about creating a legacy, not just profit.
• A values-based approach leads to better outcomes for all stakeholders.
• Investing in people creates a positive ripple effect in business.
• Challenges can be opportunities for growth and innovation.
• Empowering women through coaching can lead to transformative changes.
• Community support is vital for small businesses to thrive.
• AI and technology can enhance business efficiency and reach.
• Accountability is key to achieving personal and professional goals.
• It's essential to enjoy what you do to avoid burnout.

Chapters

00:00 Passion-Driven Entrepreneurship

11:42 Building a Values-Based Business

23:34 Navigating Challenges in Childcare

27:12 Empowering Women Through Coaching

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-04

Episode three of the Forward Thinking Podcast features two innovative founders, Chris Risby from STAT and Tama Jamieson from Dyna, who are disrupting traditional industries in healthcare and hospitality respectively. Chris discusses how STAT aims to create a sustainable healthcare model through a digital platform that connects practitioners and organisations, while Tama shares his journey in creating Dyna, a marketplace that enhances the dining experience by connecting businesses and consumers seamlessly. Both founders emphasise the importance of community support, hard work, and the entrepreneurial spirit in driving innovation.

Takeaways

• STAT is a digital platform for healthcare practitioners.
• Chris Risby aims to solve financial sustainability in healthcare.
• Dyna connects businesses and consumers in hospitality.
• Tama Jamieson emphasises the importance of transparency in reviews.
• Community support is crucial for startup success.
• Both founders highlight the need for hard work and dedication.
• Innovation can disrupt traditional industries effectively.
• Networking at events like FWD Fest is invaluable.
• Timing is critical in launching new products.
• Surrounding yourself with supportive people is essential. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Forward Fest 2025

00:57 Innovating Healthcare with STAT

08:59 Transforming Hospitality with Dyna app

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-03

In episode two of the Forward Thinking Podcast, hosts Ben Amos and Craig Jussick engage with three young entrepreneurs from Glasshouse Christian College who were part of the DeLorean Project there. They discuss their startup app, Room Readi, which aims to enhance the customers shopping experience. The conversation highlights their journey via FWD Fest, key learnings, and the importance of mentorship and feedback in entrepreneurship. The young founders share valuable advice for aspiring innovators, emphasising that age should not be a barrier to pursuing business ideas.

Takeaways

• The DeLorean Project fosters innovation among students.
• Room Readi addresses common issues in shopping experiences.
• Feedback is crucial for evolving business ideas.
• Networking at events like FWD Fest is invaluable.
• Young entrepreneurs can make a significant impact.
• Don't let age deter you from pursuing your ideas.
• Criticism can be a powerful learning tool.
• Understanding your audience is key to effective pitching.
• The entrepreneurial journey is filled with learning opportunities.
• Passion and enthusiasm can drive success. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to FWD Fest 2025

00:51 Meet the Young Entrepreneurs

01:48 The Birth of Room Readi

03:44 Insights from the DeLorean Project

05:57 Key Learnings from the Entrepreneurial Journey

09:58 Advice for Young Innovators

11:51 Connecting with Room Readi

12:47 Conclusion and Inspiration

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-02

Forward Thinking is a Coast and Commerce Podcast special series of eight episodes featuring live interviews from Forward Fest 2025. Episode 1 highlights two innovative businesses: Aqua Ubique and Moyai. Aqua Ubique focuses on generating drinking water from air, addressing the issue of water scarcity in Australia. The founder, Shannon Lemanski, shares how FWD Fest has been pivotal in his entrepreneurial journey, providing networking opportunities and community support. Moyai, founded by Ilana Morrow, aims to create an inclusive world for people with disabilities by connecting them with businesses and government resources. The conversation emphasises the importance of community, innovation, and social impact in driving business success.

Takeaways

• Aqua Ubique generates drinking water from air, addressing water scarcity.
• Over 2 million Australians lack access to safe drinking water.
• Community support is crucial for entrepreneurial success.
• Moai connects people with disabilities to businesses and government.
• The importance of networking and collaboration in startups.
• Aqua Ubique's mission is to provide 300 million litres of water by 2032.
• Moyai evolved from an index to a solution-focused business.
• Accessibility is a key focus for businesses to attract more customers.
• The entrepreneurial ecosystem on the Sunshine Coast fosters innovation.
• Both businesses highlight the impact of local initiatives on global challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Forward Thinking podcast series

00:54 Aqua Ubique: Water from Air

06:00 The Impact of Business Community and Collaboration

11:30 Motivation for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

13:34 Introduction to Moyai: Building for All Bodies

18:01 The Evolution of Moyai

22:19 Future Plans for Moyai

Visit to know more - https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-01

NEW COAST & COMMERCE PODCAST special series drops weekly from this Tues 1 Sept... Hosted by Ben Amos and produced by Craig Josic

INTRODUCING:

>>> FWD Thinking: Innovation Stories from FWD Fest 2025, featuring Sunshine Coast Businesses Making a Global Impact.

Subscribe and follow us to catch all 8 episodes on your preferred podcast player.

In Episode 8, the last of Coast and Commerce Season 4, Ben Amos chats with Brad Chesham, founder of Bundle of Rays, about the transformative potential of immersive learning technologies of XR, AR, and VR in healthcare education. Brad shares his journey from nursing to entrepreneurship, the challenges of innovating in a conservative industry, dealing with entrepreneurial sacrifices and the importance of building a community of early adopters to champion emerging technologies. He emphasises the need for a shift in how medical education is delivered and the role of disruptive innovators in driving change within Australian healthcare systems.

Takeaways

• Immersive learning can revolutionize medical education.
• The transition from traditional teaching to XR is challenging but necessary.
• Healthcare innovation faces significant institutional inertia.
• Building a sustainable business model is crucial for startups.
• Mental health and work-life balance are critical for entrepreneurs.
• Community support is vital for startup success.
• The future of nursing education will involve objective skill assessments.
• Disruptors play a key role in challenging the status quo.
• Collaboration between academia and industry is essential for innovation.
• Adopters of new technologies can help drive change in healthcare.

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Immersive Learning

05:59 Transforming Medical Education

12:02 Challenges in Healthcare Innovation

17:48 The Journey of a Startup Founder

24:02 Scaling Up: New Opportunities and Challenges

30:00 The Future of XR in Healthcare

36:02 Disruption and Institutional Inertia

41:12 Building a Community of Practice

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S4-8