In this episode of the VSBN podcast, host Charl “Chuck” Joubert from Proactive Property Management is joined by special guests Hamish from One Haven Property Group and Jonathan from Mortgage Choice Williamstown.

The three industry experts sit down to discuss how their seemingly different businesses collaborate to serve the same client. They delve into their core values, missions, and, most importantly, provide listeners with crucial advice on property investment strategies, current market trends, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Whether you're a first-time home buyer, an experienced investor, or a renter looking to break into the market, this video is packed with valuable insights from people who actively "play the game".

Key Topics Discussed:

The Investment Journey and Collaboration: Learn about the client journey from referral (95% of One Haven's business is referral based) to acquisition, emphasizing the importance of aligning property purchases with a client's goals. Discussion on how three different businesses can collaborate to serve the same client.

Leveraging Equity for Investment: Jonathan explains how utilizing existing home equity can cover deposit, stamp duty, and holding costs for an investment property, meaning the investment often "doesn't really cost them money out of their own pocket".

Why You Shouldn't Sell Too Soon: Insights into the long-term benefits of holding onto investment properties, and why holding is crucial for debt reduction and wealth building.

The Critical Role of Property Managers: Discussion on how property managers are the "last conversation" but the "ongoing relationship", helping to alleviate defects issues and providing cash flow comfort to prevent owners from selling early.

Property Market Trends and Sentiment: An in-depth look at recent market trends, post-COVID growth in states outside of Melbourne, and the impact of interest rate changes on buyer sentiment and property prices. The panelists note that Melbourne is now a highly valued market in Australia.

Rent Vesting: Advice for tenants who want to enter the property market. The guests advocate for a shift in mentality: "Rent where you want to live, as long as you've invested your money elsewhere".

Advice for Existing Landlords: Discussion on the "loyalty tax" charged by lenders and the need for regular loan and portfolio reviews to ensure optimal interest rates and structure.

Beware the Barbecue Talk: A strong warning against taking property advice from unqualified sources, especially family members who rely on "old opinions".

Guests:

Chuck Joubert - Proactive Property Management - https://proactivpm.com.au/

Hamish - One Haven Property Group - https://onehaven.com.au/

Jonathan - Mortgage Choice Williamstown - https://www.mortgagechoice.com.au/jonathan.lee/

Connect with VSBN

Instagram:   / victoriansbn  

Facebook:   / victoriansbn  

TikTok:   / andreconate  

LinkedIn:   / victoriansbn  

Website: https://www.vsbn.com.au

SEO, Copywriting & Visibility Secrets for Small Business

Are you getting website traffic… but no enquiries?
Ranking on Google… but not converting?
Or worse — completely invisible online?

In this episode of the Victorian Small Business Network Podcast, copywriter Marie Alafaci and SEO specialist Vicky Trainor (Websites Which Work) unpack the real reason many small businesses struggle with visibility — and why being “on Google” isn’t enough anymore 

This is not a fluffy SEO chat. It’s a practical, honest conversation about what actually makes a website:

• Get found
• Build trust instantly
• Convert visitors into enquiries
• Stand out in competitive local markets

Inside This Episode:

• The 2-second rule: what visitors must understand immediately
• Why SEO without good copy is useless (and vice versa)
• The difference between traffic and the right traffic
• How Google Maps rankings impact local business visibility
• Why your About Page might be costing you sales
• The truth about keyword stuffing (and why it doesn’t work anymore)
• How reviews influence both rankings and trust
• What to fix on your homepage first if you only have time for one change
• Commercial intent vs informational keywords (most business owners miss this)

If you’ve ever:

• Been told “we’ll get you to page one” without understanding what that really means
• Wondered why competitors outrank you
• Felt frustrated by people bouncing off your website
• Written your own website copy and hoped for the best

This episode is for you.

Visibility isn’t about shouting louder.
It’s about being clear, trustworthy and relevant.

Connect with us
Marie Alafaci - https://mariealafaci.com/
Vicky Trainor - https://www.websiteswhichwork.com.au/

Send us a message

🎙 Brought to You by the Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs? VSBN is here to connect, share and grow with small business owners across Victoria. Proudly produced by VSBN — the network that brings passionate business owners together through relaxed networking events all over Victoria.

Ready to expand your network and take your business to the next level? 🌟

👉 Join us at our next event: vsbn.com.au

_

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victoriansbn
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbn/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@victoriansbn
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/victoriansbn/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriansbn/

Contracts can make or break your business—especially in the fast-paced world of IT, tech services, and small business supply chains.

In this eye-opening episode, Sarah Burke, a seasoned commercial lawyer and founder of SLB Legal, teams up with Suresh GP from Taub Solutions, global IT consultant and business coach, to unravel the costly contract pitfalls that catch IT providers and service suppliers off guard.

Whether you're:

• An IT provider chasing monthly invoices,
• A tech business scaling your services,
• Or a small business owner navigating “non-negotiable” customer contracts...

You’ll walk away with real-world stories, legal insights, and practical strategies to:

• Avoid vague scopes and scope creep,
• Protect yourself from late payments and underpayment,
• Understand when it really is time to bring in a lawyer (hint: sooner than you think),
• And finally build contracts that protect you, not just your client.

From painful first-hand experiences to game-changing contract tips, this episode is your essential listen to safeguard your profits, time, and sanity.

Connect with us

Host: 

Sarah Burke, SLB Legal, https://www.slblegal.com.au/

Guest:

Suresh GP, Taub Solutions, https://taubsolutions.com/

Send us a message

🎙 Brought to You by the Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs? VSBN is here to connect, share and grow with small business owners across Victoria. Proudly produced by VSBN — the network that brings passionate business owners together through relaxed networking events all over Victoria.

Ready to expand your network and take your business to the next level? 🌟

👉 Join us at our next event: vsbn.com.au

_

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victoriansbn
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbn/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@victoriansbn
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/victoriansbn/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriansbn/

Buying or selling property? Don't move alone! In this essential episode of the VSBN Podcast, host Cynthia Peretz from Metrolinx Property Advisors sits down with two experts: Crystal Evans from Attain Loans (Finance) and Lynda Sanders from Dixon & Sanders Lawyers (Legal).

We dive deep into the entire property process—from securing the right finance and navigating tricky legal documents, to the invaluable role of a vendor and buyer's advocate. Get the expert knowledge you need to move faster and smarter in the property market!

💰 Finance & Borrowing: Avoid Costly Mistakes
Crystal Evans of Attain Loans highlights the biggest mistakes buyers make and how to avoid them.

⚖️ Legal Due Diligence: Protecting Your Purchase
Lynda Sanders of Dixon and Sanders Lawyers breaks down the critical legal steps and red flags to watch out for.

🤝 The Value of Advocacy: Vendor & Buyers Advocates
Cynthia and the experts discuss the role of Metrolinx Property Advisors as both vendor and buyers advocates.

When dealing with property, always prioritise working with qualified professionals who are transparent and conflict-free. Choose experts based on their experience and fit for your specific needs, not just price or a casual referral.

🔗 Connect With Our Guests:
Metrolinx Property Advisors - Cynthia Peretz) - https://metrolinx.com.au/
Attain Loans - Crystal Evans - https://attainloans.com.au/
Dixon and Sanders Lawyers - Lynda Sanders - https://dixonsanders.com.au/

Liked this episode? Subscribe to VSBN for more deep dives into the topics that matter in the property world!

Send us a message

🎙 Brought to You by the Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs? VSBN is here to connect, share and grow with small business owners across Victoria. Proudly produced by VSBN — the network that brings passionate business owners together through relaxed networking events all over Victoria.

Ready to expand your network and take your business to the next level? 🌟

👉 Join us at our next event: vsbn.com.au

_

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victoriansbn
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbn/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@victoriansbn
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/victoriansbn/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriansbn/

🎙️ Renovation Secrets from the Experts | Interior Design & Cabinetry Tips You Need Now!

Thinking about renovating your home or office? 💡 Discover insider insights from top pros on how to get it right—without blowing your budget or your mind.

Join Glaucia from RenovAction, her husband William (designer + cabinetmaker), and interior design expert Sharon Lynch as they break down the real renovation process. From the power of early planning to design trends that could cost you in the long run, this episode is packed with game-changing advice for any homeowner or small business owner ready to transform their space.

🏡✨ Whether you're planning a boutique home update or a sleek commercial fit-out, this episode will save you time, money, and stress.

🔥 What You’ll Learn:

• Why getting your cabinetmaker and designer involved early is a game changer
• The #1 budget-friendly design move that makes a big impact
• Hidden mistakes that blow renovation budgets—and how to avoid them
• How to handle Pinterest overload like a pro 🧠
• What clients misunderstand most about custom cabinetry (spoiler: it's not like IKEA)
• Psychological design tips to future-proof your style
• Secrets to balancing design and functionality in commercial spaces

💬 Ready to start your renovation the right way?
👉 Visit renovaction.com.au

👉 Learn more at SharonLynch.com.au

Send us a message

🎙 Brought to You by the Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs? VSBN is here to connect, share and grow with small business owners across Victoria. Proudly produced by VSBN — the network that brings passionate business owners together through relaxed networking events all over Victoria.

Ready to expand your network and take your business to the next level? 🌟

👉 Join us at our next event: vsbn.com.au

_

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victoriansbn
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbn/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@victoriansbn
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/victoriansbn/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriansbn/

Are you wasting money in your business without even realising it?
Most small business owners are! In this episode of the VSBN Podcast, Jessy Warn (HR Gurus), Phil East (Profit Improvers), and Rosslyn Pearce (The Funding Factory) break down the common money traps business owners fall into—and exactly where you should be investing instead.

From marketing mistakes and poor hiring decisions to cash flow mismanagement and toxic workplace culture, this discussion is packed with real-world insights that can save you thousands and set your business up for long-term success.

- Discover what NOT to spend on (and why).
- Learn how to make smarter investments that build assets.
- Find out how culture, values, and the right people protect your bottom line.
- Hear practical finance tips to keep cash flowing and avoid insolvency.

Don’t miss this—it could be the difference between struggling month-to-month or building a thriving, scalable business.

Connect with our podcasters

Jessy Warn - HR Gurus - https://hrgurus.com.au/

Phil East - Profit Improvers - https://profitimprover.com.au/

Rosslyn Pearce - The Funding Factory - https://www.thefundingfactory.com.au/

If you found this helpful, like the video.
Subscribe to the VSBN channel for more small business insights.

Send us a message

🎙 Brought to You by the Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs? VSBN is here to connect, share and grow with small business owners across Victoria. Proudly produced by VSBN — the network that brings passionate business owners together through relaxed networking events all over Victoria.

Ready to expand your network and take your business to the next level? 🌟

👉 Join us at our next event: vsbn.com.au

_

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victoriansbn
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbn/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@victoriansbn
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/victoriansbn/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriansbn/

Thinking of selling your business? Or buying your first one?
Discover insider secrets from a business broker, commercial lawyer, and small business accountant on how to maximize profit, avoid costly mistakes, and get your deal done smoothly. This is a must-watch for any small business owner planning an exit—or a bold new beginning.

🎙️ Hosted by Sarah Burke from SLB Legal, with guests Tyler Sandiford (Keystone Business Sales) and Kristy Whibley (Adroit Accounting), this power trio shares real-life stories, common pitfalls, and the essential steps you need to take today to prepare for a successful business sale or purchase.

👀 What You’ll Learn

• Why starting early is the #1 key to a successful sale
• The “Abduction Test”: Can your business run without you?
• Legal and financial health checks every owner must do
• Share sale vs. asset sale – pros, cons & tax impact
• How to avoid sales falling through due to poor documentation
• Real client stories that show what to do—and what NOT to do

📊 Whether you're thinking of selling in 3 years or 3 months, this episode reveals the strategies top advisors use to help clients walk away happy and financially secure.

🔥 Don’t risk your biggest financial transaction.
 Get ahead now—watch the full episode and plan your successful exit or entry today.

👇 Contact the Experts:
Sarah Burke – slblegal.com.au
Kristy Whibley – adroitaccounting.com.au
Tyler Sandiford – keystonebusinesssales.com.au

Send us a message

🎙 Brought to You by the Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs? VSBN is here to connect, share and grow with small business owners across Victoria. Proudly produced by VSBN — the network that brings passionate business owners together through relaxed networking events all over Victoria.

Ready to expand your network and take your business to the next level? 🌟

👉 Join us at our next event: vsbn.com.au

_

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victoriansbn
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbn/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@victoriansbn
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/victoriansbn/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriansbn/

What does it take to deliver a seamless, high-impact project across multiple specialists? In this episode of the VSBN Small Business Podcast, host Marie Alafaci is joined by designer Vanessa Thomas (Synkd) and developer Benjamin Marriott (Cornerstone and Compass) for a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how to collaborate effectively across copy, design, and development.

We cover:

• What makes a dream team click—and what makes it crumble
• Why clear timelines and briefs are non-negotiable
• How to avoid design disasters and copy clashes
• The value of wireframes, data, and speaking a shared language
• When to bring in a copywriter (hint: early!)

If you're a small business owner about to launch a website, rebrand, or work with multiple creatives—this episode is packed with real talk, practical tools, and some funny horror stories from the trenches.

Presenters:

Marie Alafaci - MarieAlafaci.com

Vanessa Thomas - Synkd

Benjamin Marriott - Cornerstone and Compass

Send us a message

🎙 Brought to You by the Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs? VSBN is here to connect, share and grow with small business owners across Victoria. Proudly produced by VSBN — the network that brings passionate business owners together through relaxed networking events all over Victoria.

Ready to expand your network and take your business to the next level? 🌟

👉 Join us at our next event: vsbn.com.au

_

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victoriansbn
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbn/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@victoriansbn
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/victoriansbn/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriansbn/

In this inspiring episode of the VSBN Podcast, Glaucia Camargo from Renovaction and Cynthia Peretz from Metrolinx Property Advisors dive into two very different yet deeply personal industries: cabinet making and property advocacy. From creating custom-designed spaces to guiding clients through the maze of property buying and selling, they share the emotional depth, strategic thinking, and people-first approach behind their businesses.

You’ll hear about:

• Why working with a buyer's or vendor advocate can save you stress and money
• How bespoke cabinet designs are brought to life through client collaboration
• The unique challenges and triumphs of being women in male-dominated industries
• Personal stories that highlight the heart and hustle behind small business success

Whether you're buying your first home, renovating your kitchen, or curious about growing a service-based business in Australia — this episode is packed with real talk, practical advice, and lots of heart.

Connect with Cynthia - https://metrolinx.com.au/
Connect with Glaucia - https://renovaction.com.au/

Send us a message

🎙 Brought to You by the Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs? VSBN is here to connect, share and grow with small business owners across Victoria. Proudly produced by VSBN — the network that brings passionate business owners together through relaxed networking events all over Victoria.

Ready to expand your network and take your business to the next level? 🌟

👉 Join us at our next event: vsbn.com.au

_

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victoriansbn
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbn/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@victoriansbn
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/victoriansbn/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriansbn/

This inspiring episode explores mental, physical and emotional wellness, empowerment techniques, and the joys of Brazilian cuisine. Featuring expert insights from a hypnotherapist, a kinesiologist, an empowerment coach, and a Brazilian food entrepreneur, this episode is packed with transformative stories and practical advice to enhance your well-being and business.

Highlights:

• Simple strategies to tackle emotional barriers and bad habits.
• Having non-medi1cinal practices
• How food and culture foster connections and joy in business.
• Forever a student
• The power of community and shared wisdom in personal growth.

Connect with Us:

Visit vsbn.com.au to learn more about today’s guests and how they can support your journey.

Send us a message

🎙 Brought to You by the Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs? VSBN is here to connect, share and grow with small business owners across Victoria. Proudly produced by VSBN — the network that brings passionate business owners together through relaxed networking events all over Victoria.

Ready to expand your network and take your business to the next level? 🌟

👉 Join us at our next event: vsbn.com.au

_

Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/victoriansbn
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbn/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@victoriansbn
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/victoriansbn/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@victoriansbn/