#21 - What it really takes to build a recruitment business with Sarah Donegan

In Part 1 of this special episode of The Juno Advisory Podcast, Adam and Sharron sit down with Sarah Donegan, one of Australia's most recognised voices in HR, recruitment, and leadership.   Sarah shares the remarkable story behind the creation of Samuels Donegan, from a conversation over a few drinks with her business partner Evelina to building one of Australia's most respected executive recruitment firms. What started as a bold idea quickly became a business built on complementary strengths, shared values, and a willingness to take a leap into the unknown.   The conversation explores the realities of business partnerships, why founders don't always have to do it alone, and how finding the right person can completely change the trajectory of a business.   Sarah also reflects on her reputation as a thought leader, discussing the difference between genuine expertise and simply creating content to appear influential. The discussion also touches on the long game of business relationships, building a reputation over decades, helping people without expecting anything in return, and how a commitment to "paying it forward" became an important part of her personal and professional philosophy during COVID.   Adam and Sharron also dive into topics including work-life balance, founder pressure, evolving ambitions, legacy, leadership, and what Sarah hopes the next decade of her career will look like. This is an honest and insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, partnerships, leadership, thought leadership, and building a business with purpose.   Want to reach out? Contact us at www.junoadvisory.com.au