The Business Game

The Business Game

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The Business Game episodes

  • Why Software Alone Won’t Fix Your Business: Mark Layzelle on LEAN, AI, and Operational Excellence

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    Why Software Alone Won’t Fix Your Business. Join The Tech Panel as we dive deep with Mark Layzelle, co-founder of Day One Software, a transformation strategy expert with over 15 years at GE Capital mastering LEAN Six Sigma, operational excellence, and business transformation leadership.

    In this must-watch episode, Mark reveals why small and medium-sized service businesses struggle with inefficiencies, the hidden costs of bad processes, and how Day One Software is revolutionizing professional services with AI-powered automation.

    Curious about the biggest misconceptions in business transformation? Wondering how LEAN Six Sigma applies to today’s services industry? Want to know the real difference between “true automation” and just slapping software on a problem? The Tech Panel and Mark dive into this to bring you all the answers.

    From horror stories of inefficiency costing millions to practical advice for optimizing operations, this episode is packed with insights for business leaders, tech enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the intersection of LEAN methodology, AI, and software innovation. Don’t miss Mark’s top software recommendation (beyond AI) for start-ups and his secrets to turning a consultancy into a game-changing product.

    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    1 hr 18 min
  • How Can Smaller Businesses Stop Getting Stiffed on Payments? We have the solution!

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    How Can Smaller Businesses Stop Getting Stiffed on Payments? We have a solution for you! Paul Veric from IPromise explains in this unmissable episode of The Tech Panel. We dive into the fintech revolution with IPromise, New Zealand’s game-changing escrow service disrupting secure transactions!

    Tired of late payments, scams, or chasing invoices? Whether you’re a tradie, small business owner, or online seller on TradeMe or Facebook Marketplace, IPromise is redefining trust in payments. Join co-founder Paul Veric as he reveals how IPromise streamlines transactions—from real estate to freelance services—by securely holding funds in a BNZ trust account until both parties are satisfied. 

    With overdue payments costing NZ SMEs over $7.4 billion, discover how IPromise eliminates risks, tackles the global late payment crisis, and brings escrow into the digital age. Grab a cuppa and tune in to explore why this fintech disruptor is building trust, one transaction at a time—perfect for Kiwis and Aussies seeking smarter, safer business solutions!

    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    1 hr 8 min
  • Do you think we’re too reliant on technology, or is it the key to a smarter future?

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    Do you think we’re too reliant on technology, or is it the key to a smarter future? In this exciting episode of The Tech Panel, we sit down with Anushka Bandara, the visionary CEO and Co-Founder of Elegant Media, a leading mobile app development company based in Melbourne, Australia.

    Anushka also spearheads Elegant AI, an AI-driven consultancy transforming industries with cutting-edge AI solutions, machine learning algorithms, and data analytics tools.

     What You'll Learn:

    • AI’s Role in Business: Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and the future of AI in business. Is AI overhyped, or is it truly revolutionizing the way companies operate? Anushka shares his insights on where businesses should be focusing their AI efforts and what trends to watch out for.


    • Global Tech Expansion: From humble beginnings in 2010, Elegant Media has scaled globally, expanding into New Zealand and eyeing Singapore. What challenges did Anushka face in expanding his tech business across international borders? How do you keep company culture intact when scaling globally?


    • AI & App Development: Learn how Elegant Media combines technical innovation with user-centric design in the mobile app development space. Could AI-generated apps replace human developers? Anushka weighs in on the future of mobile app development and the no-code, low-code movement.


    • Ethics of AI: As AI evolves, should companies be held to higher ethical standards? Anushka discusses the importance of responsible AI development and the regulatory measures necessary to keep AI in check.


    • Leadership & Innovation: Anushka shares leadership lessons learned over his decade-long career. What’s the biggest leadership mistake he’s made, and what advice would he give to aspiring tech entrepreneurs?


     Key Takeaways:

    • The evolution of AI in business
    • Scaling a tech business globally
    • AI's impact on mobile app development
    • Ethical considerations in AI
    • Leadership strategies for tech entrepreneurs

    If you're in tech, mobile app development, or AI, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the rapidly changing landscape of innovation.



    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    1 hr 6 min
  • Are AI Chatbots the End of Human Customer Service?

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    Are AI Chatbots the end of human Customer Service? That’s one of the big question we’re tackling in this episode of The Tech Panel with Bart Puszko, CEO and Founder of Blue Seas AI Consulting. We also explore how businesses can harness AI, automation, and generative AI to streamline operations, boost efficiency, and drive growth—without the complexity.

    🔹 Key Topics Covered:
    ✅ How AI is transforming industries like logistics, construction, and professional services
    ✅ Common AI implementation mistakes—and how to avoid them
    ✅ AI-powered virtual receptionists & chatbots: Will they replace human customer service?
    ✅ The biggest AI security risks businesses need to know
    ✅ Demystifying AI: How to assess AI readiness and build trust in automation
    ✅ What’s next for Blue Seas AI and the future of business AI

    If you’re looking to future-proof your business with AI, cut through the noise, and gain actionable insights from an AI expert, this episode is for you!



    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    1 hr 25 min
  • AI vs. Human Intelligence: Who Will Win the Future? Dr Andrea Isoni of AI Technologies

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    AI is revolutionizing industries at an unprecedented pace—are we prepared for what’s coming? In this episode of The Tech Panel, we sit down with Dr. Andrea Isoni, Chief AI Officer at AI Technologies, global AI speaker, and author of Machine Learning for the Web, to dive deep into the most pressing and controversial AI topics of 2024.

    Key Topics We Cover:
    ✅ The AI revolution: Hype vs. Reality – is AI living up to its promise?
    ✅ AI in cybersecurity: Deepfakes, cyberattacks, and threats to critical infrastructure
    ✅ Workforce disruption: Will AI eliminate jobs, or create new opportunities?
    ✅ AI & Regulation: U.S. vs. China’s AI policies—who’s leading the race?
    ✅ AI in Science: How AI is accelerating drug discovery & bioengineering breakthroughs
    ✅ The rise of AI agents: Can we truly trust autonomous AI decision-making?

    Dr. Isoni also shares exclusive AI predictions, including:
    🔮 Why Nvidia will dominate AI hardware – but mid-market players are emerging
    🔮 AI’s role in pharmaceuticals, biotech, and molecule manipulation
    🔮 The real timeline for agentic AI—is it coming faster than we think?
    🔮 Why AI regulations are lagging behind rapid advancement

    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    1 hr 48 min
  • What No One is Telling You About AI’s Future or Past | John Crook from Rule30

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    In this episode of The Tech Panel, we sit down with John Crook, CEO of Rule30, to explore his decades-long career in software development, AI, and tech acquisitions. 

    With a background spanning British Telecom, Intel, Softlink, and Constellation Software Inc. (CSI), John shares deep insights into AI disruption, software business growth, and the power of decentralized acquisition models.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
    ✅ The rise of AI and neural networks—John’s journey from writing his first AI program in the 1980s to today’s breakthroughs
    ✅ How Constellation Software Inc. built a global empire by acquiring and scaling Vertical Market Software (VMS) companies
    ✅ Lessons from the dot-com boom and bust—navigating tech cycles and industry shifts
    ✅ The real impact of DeepSeek AI, ChatGPT, and AI-driven innovation on global markets
    ✅ Why Australia could be a major player in the future of AI and software development
    ✅ Key software tools every business should use to stay ahead

    🔥 AI vs. Human Intelligence? The Future of Business Depends on It!
    With companies like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Google adapting to the latest AI-driven competition, how can businesses leverage AI without falling into the trap of hype-driven innovation? John breaks it all down with real-world strategies from his work with CSI’s global portfolio.


    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    1 hr 9 min
  • The ROI of Video Marketing: Why Your Business Can’t Afford to Ignore It, Ben Amos from Innovate Media

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    In this episode of The Tech Panel, we sit down with Ben Amos—renowned video strategist, international speaker, author of Engage: The Definitive Guide to Video Strategy For Business, and host of the Engage Video Marketing Podcast.

    As the founder of Innovate Media, Ben has helped high-impact brands worldwide harness the power of effective video marketing to attract, engage, and convert their ideal audiences.

    We dive deep into:
    🚀 The origin story of Innovate Media and the biggest challenges Ben faced in building a global video strategy powerhouse.
    📈 How businesses can stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of video marketing and deliver real ROI.
    🎬 Balancing creativity with technical precision when producing high-impact content.
    🌊 How being based on the Sunshine Coast has shaped Innovate Media’s growth and culture.
    💡 Expert advice for C-suite leaders hesitant about investing in video marketing.
    🛠️ The must-have software Ben recommends for anyone starting a video-driven business today.

    If you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or business leader looking to level up your video marketing strategy, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    49 min
  • The Truth About Smart Buildings - David Blanch from Bitpool Reveals All

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    In this episode of The Tech Panel, we sit down with David Blanch, the CTO and co-founder of Bitpool, to explore how real-time data, AI-driven decision-making, and open-source technology are revolutionizing the property tech industry. 

    With over 20 years of experience in proptech and software development, David shares his expert insights on how data transparency, AI automation, and smart building solutions are transforming commercial real estate.

    We dive into the challenges of traditional building management, the role of AI in optimizing energy efficiency and sustainability, and how Bitpool’s fast-to-deploy platform is making buildings more accountable—eliminating complexity, reducing costs, and enabling actionable insights in real time.

    Whether you're a real estate investor, facilities manager, or tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with game-changing insights on how AI-powered property tech is shaping the future.


    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    56 min
  • Why Most Startups FAIL (And How to Avoid It!) with Colin Kinner from Startup Onramp

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    In this episode of The Tech Panel, we sit down with Colin Kinner, Founder and CEO of Startup Onramp, Australia’s leading startup incubator. With over 20 years of experience in startup accelerators, venture capital, and mentoring, Colin has worked with thousands of early-stage founders, helping them navigate the startup journey and avoid the most common mistakes.

    Topics we cover:
    - What separates successful startup founders from those who struggle?
    - The biggest mistakes early-stage startups make (and how to avoid them!)
    - Lessons from Silicon Valley that Australia can apply to its startup ecosystem
    - Colin’s experience creating Microsoft’s Founders Hub learning content
    - The most promising industries for new startups in the next few years
    - The #1 software tool Colin would recommend to every new founder

    If you’re a startup founder, entrepreneur, or investor, this episode is packed with insider knowledge that can help you launch, grow, and scale your business. Don’t miss out!



    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    1 hr
  • Are Universities Preparing Students for Success? The Future of Education, AI, and Careers

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    In this episode of The Tech Panel, we sit down with Hari Sharma, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Skillaroo, to explore the challenges of higher education, job readiness, and the role of technology in shaping the workforce of the future.

    Hari shares his journey from international student to entrepreneur, highlighting the flaws in university education, the rise of AI in accounting, and how technology is reshaping job opportunities. With 47% of graduates struggling to find industry jobs, Skillaroo is tackling the gap head-on, using automation, real-world training, and mentorship to help students become value-adding professionals.

    🎙️ Key Topics Covered:
    ✅ From student to start-up: Why Hari built Skillaroo to fix a broken system
    ✅ The skills gap crisis: Are universities failing students?
    ✅ AI & automation in accounting: Will graduate jobs still exist in 10 years?
    ✅ Tech in career development: How automation is making job training smarter
    ✅ The future of entrepreneurship: Is tech making it too easy to start a business?

    💡 Controversial Takes & Hard Truths:
    🔥 "Diplomas are better than degrees."
    🔥 "Higher education is a money grab."
    🔥 "AI will eliminate junior accounting jobs—who’s getting the cut?"

    If you’re a student, entrepreneur, or business leader, this episode is a must-watch for understanding how technology is reshaping careers, business, and the future of work.


    Support the show

    Thank you for listening to The Business Game, where real founders break down the real levels of business.

    Whether you're building at Level 1 ($0–$1M) or scaling through Level 6 and beyond, this show is designed to help you understand exactly where you are, and what it takes to level up.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, follow and leave a review. It helps more founders find the roadmap.

    For full episodes, level breakdowns and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    Want to identify your level or learn more about The Business Game framework?
    Visit www.thebusinessgamegroup.com

    It's time to Level Up!

    We’ll see you at the next level. 

    52 min

About The Business Game

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The Business Game


The Business Game is not another highlight reel of overnight success. It is a structured, honest breakdown of what it really takes to build, scale, and…