For Founders Sake

Today we’re joined by Peggy McAlister - a familiar name in our local area and someone who has built a reputation not just on results, but on the way she works with people.Peggy burst onto the real estate scene in 2008 and quickly became recognised as a top performer both locally and nationally. But this episode isn’t just about success - it’s about what happens when life shifts, priorities change, and you’re forced to rebuild in a new season.At just four months postpartum (at the time of recording) with her second baby, Peggy is stepping back into business - and doing it with a completely different perspective.We talk about the reality of returning to work after having a baby, the pressure around “having it all”, and whether success, family life and relationships can truly coexist - or if something always has to give.This conversation also dives deep into sales - especially for small business owners who feel uncomfortable putting themselves out there. Peggy shares her mindset around selling as service, how she handles rejection, and why focusing on solving people’s problems (not chasing the biggest deal) is what’s actually built her career.We also unpack:What buyers are getting wrong in today’s marketWhat sellers need to understand before listingHow to navigate big decisions with more confidence and less pressureThe mindset shift that makes selling feel natural, not forcedThis episode is honest, practical and grounding - whether you’re in business, navigating a big life transition, or simply wanting to approach sales and decision-making in a more aligned way.-------------------Links:Follow Peggy McAlister:https://www.realestate.com.au/agent/peggy-mcalister-3260056?cid=agent-profile-page|buy:pdp:contact-side-panelFollow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/for.founders.sake/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ForFoundersSake

Today we’re joined by the incredible Sharan - a true business veteran and the woman behind what many on the South Coast would consider an institution.Having been in business since just 18 years old and now approaching 60 at the time of recording, Sharan brings decades of lived experience, resilience and perspective to this conversation. She’s also spent more than 20 years in business alongside her husband - something we both agree is a huge achievement in itself, and a dynamic not many could navigate day in, day out.From the much-loved Bodalla Bakery to its next chapter as Bodalla General, Sharan’s story is one of evolution, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to her community.But this conversation goes far beyond baked goods and beautiful cakes.Sharan takes us behind the scenes of what it has really looked like to run a small-town business through some of Australia’s toughest moments - supporting first responders during the bushfires, navigating the uncertainty of COVID, and finding ways to keep both her business and her team afloat when everything felt like it was working against her.She shares how, in the middle of chaos, they pivoted quickly - bringing comfort into people’s homes through curated high teas - a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, there is still room for creativity and connection.We also dive into the parts of business that aren’t often spoken about.Sharan opens up about the risks that come with running a business, the weight of leadership, and the reality of things not always going to plan. In a deeply honest moment, she shares her experience with bankruptcy - something so many business owners face, but so few talk about publicly. This part of the conversation is raw, real and incredibly important.Because behind every “iconic” business is a person who has had to make hard decisions, carry pressure, and keep showing up regardless.We talk about what it means to run a business that’s so deeply tied to community - being part of people’s weddings, celebrations and hardest days - and the quiet responsibility that comes with that.And finally, we look ahead.The transition into Bodalla General marks a new era - a reimagined space that blends the heart of the original bakery with a nostalgic general store feel. It’s a reflection of everything Sharan has built, learned and endured - and a reminder that reinvention is always possible.This episode is about resilience, honesty, and the true reality of small business.It’s about starting again, even when it’s hard.And it’s about the kind of strength that doesn’t always shout - but shows up anyway.Links:Bodalla General: https://www.instagram.com/bodallageneral/Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/for.founders.sake/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ForFoundersSake

Today we’re joined by Kirsty, founder of Camel Rock Surf School — a business that’s not just teaching people to surf, but creating space for women in the lineup.After landing on the Far South Coast in 2018, Kirsty built her surf school in Bermagui from the ground up. But her journey hasn’t been all sunshine and salty hair.In this episode, Kirsty opens up about the darker side of breaking into a traditionally male-dominated surf culture — including facing bullying, territorial behaviour, and even nasty posters being put up around town. Instead of backing down, the local community rallied around her in a powerful show of support that helped strengthen the business even further.We also talk about the realities of running a surf school — the early mornings, the constant watching of wind and swell charts, and the unpredictability of building a business that’s entirely dependent on weather and ocean conditions. It’s a far cry from the “spending every day at the beach” lifestyle people often imagine.Kirsty shares how her Surf & Stretch women’s retreats came to life — bringing together surf lessons, yoga and connection — and why the demand for women-only sessions continues to grow. Through her popular Waves for Womenclasses, she’s creating a space where women can step outside their comfort zones and support each other in an environment that feels welcoming, empowering and fun.And throughout the conversation, one thing becomes clear — the genuine joy she gets from teaching first-timers and watching someone stand up on their very first wave.This episode is about resilience, community, and carving out space where there wasn’t one before.In this episode we talk about:The reality of running a surf school and building a business around weather and ocean conditionsFacing bullying and territorial behaviour within surf cultureThe local community support that helped Camel Rock Surf School grow strongerCreating safe and supportive spaces for women in the oceanSurf & Stretch retreats combining surfing, yoga and connectionThe rising demand for women-only lessons and retreatsThe joy of teaching first-time surfers and watching confidence grow in the water----------------------LINKS: Camel Rock Surf Schoolhttps://www.camelrocksurfschool.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/camelrocksurfschool/Follow For Founder’s SakeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/for.founders.sake/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ForFoundersSake

This week on For Founder’s Sake, we sit down with Robyn and Abbey, the mother–daughter duo behind CORABE, a beautifully curated interiors store in Batemans Bay specialising in one-of-a-kind vintage and upcycled furniture sourced from Northern India.What started as a shared love for interiors, travel and restoring unique pieces has grown into a thriving regional business bringing globally sourced craftsmanship to the South Coast.In this episode we dive into how CORABE came to life, the reality of sourcing furniture internationally, and what it’s really like running a business with a family member.Robyn and Abbey share the behind-the-scenes of travelling to India to source pieces, the complex logistics of getting furniture back to Australia, and the surprising parts of the global furniture trade that most people never see — from freight costs and container delays to Australia’s strict quarantine processes.They also open up about one of their earliest challenges when their first container shipment didn’t quite go to plan, resulting in a costly lesson that set them back more than $60,000.We also explore the dynamic of building a business as a mother–daughter partnership — the trust, the tension, and the unique strengths that come with working alongside family.And of course, we talk about why they chose Batemans Bay to open their store, the realities of running a premium interiors business in a regional town, and how they’ve built a brand that brings resort-style living and globally sourced craftsmanship to the South Coast.If you love interiors, travel, or hearing the real stories behind building a business, this episode is packed with honest insights, big lessons and a few unexpected moments.Connect with CORABE & Follow For Founder’s SakeWebsite: https://corabe.co/Instagram: instagram.com/corabe.coInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/for.founders.sake/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ForFoundersSake

This week on the podcast, we’re joined by Aimee from APC Home Loans - bringing 17 years of experience in finance, banking and lending to the mic.With nearly a decade spent inside one of the big four banks before launching her own brokerage, Aimee shares how APC Home Loans came to life, what pushed her to step out on her own, and what she’s learnt building a business in an industry that can often feel overwhelming or intimidating.This episode isn’t just for business owners.If you’re thinking about buying your first home, refinancing, investing, or simply trying to understand where to start - this conversation is packed with practical, easy-to-understand education around the home loan process.We dive into:Where first home buyers should start (before they even look at properties)How much deposit you really needWhat lenders are actually looking atThe biggest mistakes people make before applyingHow refinancing works and when it’s worth consideringWe also go deep into lending as a self-employed or small business owner - covering:Why it’s different to PAYG lendingHow tax deductions impact borrowing powerHow far in advance business owners should prepareWhat documents lenders needThe common myths that stop people from even applyingAnd because we love the human side of business, we also chat about:The growth of APC Home LoansThe pressure of running your own businessBeing a working mum and navigating that constant juggleRedefining success in different seasons of lifeWe wrap things up with a quick-fire true or false myth-busting segment that clears up some of the biggest misconceptions around brokers, deposits, self-employed lending and more.This episode is equal parts educational and relatable - with plenty of laughs along the way.Whether you’re a first home buyer, business owner, investor or just curious about how lending really works, this one’s for you.--------------------Links mentioned in the show: APC Home Loanshttps://www.apchomeloans.com.au/Follow APC on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/apchomeloans/Follow us on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/for.founders.sake/Watch on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@ForFoundersSake---------All the information in this episode is of general nature and used for educational purposes only. Your full financial needs and requirements need to be assessed prior to any offer or acceptance of a loan product.Credit Representative APC Home Loans 550068 is authorised under Australian Credit Licence 389328

This episode is a behind-the-scenes chat between Shelb & Em as we unpack how we’re intentionally setting ourselves up for the year ahead - in business, life and everything in between.It’s not about hype.It’s not about unrealistic resolutions.It’s about clarity, ownership and execution.In this episode we talk about: Scaling smart — and learning the hard wayToward the end of 2025, we made what felt like a smart next move for the podcast: bringing on an editor. The goal? Faster turnaround times and the possibility of moving from fortnightly to weekly episodes.For Em, this was a big step. Letting go of the editing process - something she’s deeply particular about - wasn’t easy. But growth requires delegation, right?Let’s just say… it didn’t quite go to plan.You’ll have to listen to hear exactly what happened - and what it taught us about control, standards and trusting the right people.Effective goal setting (without the fluff)There’s nothing wrong with a big, lofty goal. But dreaming is one thing - executing is another. We break down how to reverse-engineer ambitious goals so they’re actually achievable.Measuring success beyond numbersNot every goal has a dollar figure attached. Some are about energy, health, presence or capacity. We talk about how to measure progress when success is a feeling - not a financial metric.Hiring a ‘non money-making’ team memberWhen is the right time to invest in support that doesn’t directly generate revenue? We unpack the mindset shift required to hire for capacity and sustainability - not just immediate ROI.Our business goals for the year aheadWe share what we’re building, refining and focusing on - and where we’re intentionally stretching ourselves this year.If you’re mapping out your year, questioning your next hire, or sitting with big goals that feel slightly uncomfortable - this one’s for you.Success isn’t accidental.It’s intentional.Follow along:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/for.founders.sake/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ForFoundersSakeIf this episode resonated, take a screenshot and tag us - we love seeing you listening.

In this episode, we sit down with Matt Hatcher — Mayor of the Eurobodalla Shire Council, local business owner, and dad — to unpack what it really looks like to juggle leadership, business, community, and family in a very public role.This conversation moves fast and jumps around (in the best way), and it quickly becomes clear just how much passion Matt brings to everything he does.WHAT WE COVER IN THE EP...Starting & running businessesMatt’s journey into business and what it takes to get something off the groundPreparing for a big summer season before the bushfires hit and the Shire came to a haltAccidentally stepping away from his business after becoming deeply involved in disaster recoveryBeing immersed in recovery efforts for around 18 monthsA viral moment during this time that resulted in selling over a quarter of a million dollars in coffee beans onlineSpilling a little tea ☕️Matt shares insight into a new business venture he’s involved in — Bar SomethingEarly details around the vision and why it’s something completely new for the areaCommunity & volunteeringThe importance of local community groups and volunteeringNew and creative ways clubs and organisations can raise moneyWhy community involvement matters in regional areasHow local government actually worksThe difference between local, state, and federal government, and who is responsible for whatDisaster recoveryPublic transportInfrastructure and planningWhat it was really like running for MayorThe very normal moment Matt received the call that he was the new MayorGoing from a regular citizen one day to Mayor the nextHow council chambers operate, voting systems, and why the Mayor is essentially one councillor among manyDevelopment, consultation & criticismHow Development Applications (DAs) workCommunity consultation and notification — and why much of it often goes unreadThe pushback and negativity that can arise when developments appear around the ShireHandling criticism, negativity, and confrontational moments — particularly in Facebook community groupsThe human sideWearing many hats across business, leadership, and family lifeBalancing public leadership with being a present dadStaying grounded while operating in the public eye-----LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EP...Bar Somethinghttps://www.barsomething.comThe Kioskhttps://www.instagram.com/its_the_kiosk/The Bearded Brewerhttps://www.beardedbrewercoffee.com/Guerrilla Roastershttps://www.guerrillaroasters.com/---Follow For Founders’ SakeInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/for.founders.sake/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@ForFoundersSake

In this episode of For Founder Sake, we sit down with Gabby Good, co-owner of a boutique interior furniture and homewares store with locations in Batemans Bay and Milton. Gabby’s journey is a powerful mix of creativity, resilience, and real-world business decisions - the kind that don’t always come with an easy answer.We talk about the day-to-day juggle of motherhood, running two retail stores, sourcing stock, and still finding space for yourself outside of business. Gabby gives an honest look at what it’s like managing the moving parts of retail - from product selection and trade fairs to budgets, cash flow, and the pressure of getting it right season after season.We also rewind the clock to a pivotal moment in Gabby’s career - when an opportunity came up eight years ago to buy into an existing business rather than start something from scratch. We unpack that decision, the risks and advantages of buying into an established brand, and how Gabby and her business partner have grown and evolved the business since then - making it their own while respecting what was already built.This episode also dives into the harder side of business. Gabby opens up about making the tough decision not to continue the lease on the Batemans Bay store - a choice rooted in growth, sustainability, and long-term vision, even when it comes with emotional weight. We explore how founders navigate these moments, and why closing a door doesn’t mean failure.We also reflect on the uniquely challenging years faced by South Coast businesses. From the devastating bushfires to COVID lockdowns, Gabby shares what it was like opening the Batemans Bay store just before the world shut down - and how local and online community support played a huge role in getting through those uncertain times.Here’s what we cover in this episode:Buying into an existing business vs starting from scratch.How the business has evolved and grown over the past eight years.The reality of juggling motherhood, business ownership, and personal interests.Running two boutique retail stores in regional towns.Making tough business decisions, including closing a physical location.Opening a store just before COVID and navigating lockdowns.The impact of bushfires and the role of community support.How Gabby sources stock for a boutique homewares store.Attending trade fairs, planning ranges, and staying disciplined with stock budgets.This conversation is thoughtful, honest, and incredibly relatable for anyone in retail or small business - especially those who’ve had to rebuild, adapt, or rethink their path over the last few years. Gabby’s story is a reminder that business isn’t just about growth for growth’s sake, but about alignment, sustainability, and knowing when to pivot.🎧 Listen now for an insightful chat about creativity, community, and the courage it takes to make hard decisions - even when your heart is deeply tied to the outcome.If you’re enjoying the podcast, make sure to follow For Founder Sake wherever you listen, leave a rating, and share this episode with another founder who’ll appreciate the honesty behind running a retail business.–––Guest: Gabby Good – Co-Owner, Boutique Interior Furniture & Homewares📍 Batemans Bay & Milton, NSW🛋️ Curated interiors, furniture & homewares📲 Follow along on Instagram: @spaces2538🎙️ Follow the podcast: @for.founders.sake

In this episode of For Founder Sake, we dive head-first into one of the most powerful yet overlooked parts of running a business - mindset. Because no matter how good your product, marketing, or team is, the way you think will make or break your success.It’s just us this week - Em & Shelb - and we’re getting real about the mental roller-coaster that comes with entrepreneurship. From confidence highs to crippling self-doubt, from bold decisions to late-night “what have I done?” moments, this episode is an honest exploration of how your internal world shapes everything in your external business.Shelby opens up about one of the biggest chapters in her career - taking on huge financial commitments to grow her Canberra clinic right before the second COVID lockdown hit. We talk through what it felt like staring down the terrifying “L-word” (liquidation), how she clawed her way back, and what that experience taught her about resilience, ego, and self-trust.Here’s what we unpack in this episode:The link between mindset and business success - why strategy means nothing without self-belief.Shelby’s story of expanding her clinic, the financial pressure that followed, and how she rebuilt.Imposter syndrome - how it shows up for founders and how to move through it.“Fake it till you make it” confidence - what that actually looks like in practice.Pricing confidence - knowing your worth and giving yourself permission to profit.Learning from failure without letting it define you.The daily habits and mental reframes that keep us grounded when things get hard.This episode is raw, vulnerable, and probably one of the most relatable ones yet. We strip away the highlight reel and talk about the parts of business people don’t always share - the fear, the pressure, the moments where quitting feels easier than continuing, and the mindset shifts that pull you back on track.If you’ve ever second-guessed your pricing, questioned whether you’re good enough, or wondered why business sometimes feels heavier than it should, this conversation will hit home. It’s a reminder that mindset isn’t a one-time fix - it’s something you build, test, and rebuild again as your business (and life) evolves.🎧 Listen now for a deep, honest chat about how your thoughts, beliefs, and self-talk directly shape your success - and how to start thinking like the founder you want to become.If you’re enjoying the podcast, make sure to follow For Founder Sake wherever you get your podcasts, leave a rating, and share this episode with another founder who could use a reminder that they’re not alone in the hard stuff.–––Hosts: Em & Shelb – Co-hosts of For Founder Sake💬 Real conversations about the highs, lows, and “FFS” moments of business and life.🎙️ Follow along on Instagram: @for.founders.sake

Episode 4: Resilience, Rivalries & Rising to the Top – with Skye FalzonIn this episode of For Founder Sake, we sit down with Skye Falzon — professional boxer, business owner, coach, and absolute powerhouse. Currently ranked #2 in the world for women’s boxing and chasing a world title in early 2026, Skye’s story is one of grit, discipline, and unapologetic determination.We dive into the real and raw moments behind her journey — not just inside the ring, but in business and life. From facing local competitors who wanted to see her fail to dealing with attempts to sabotage her success, Skye shares what it’s really like to stand your ground, back yourself, and tell people to quite literally “fuck off” and let you do your thing.Beyond the boxing gloves and fight nights, we talk about what drives her — the balance of running a gym, building a community, recently getting married, and preparing for the biggest opportunity of her career.Here’s what we dive into in this episode:The story of how Skye went from being told she’d “never make it” to ranking #2 in the world.How she found her coach (who once thought she was terrible) and built an 11-year partnership that changed everything.What it’s like to run a business while chasing a world title.The mental resilience it takes to keep going when people doubt or try to sabotage you.The moments that tested her confidence — and the ones that built her into who she is today.How she balances training, business, and newly married life.Why she believes in blocking out the noise and doing things her own way.Skye’s honesty is refreshing, her humour is razor-sharp, and her story is proof that the only opinion that really matters is your own. She embodies everything For Founder Sake stands for — resilience, conviction, and a bit of rebellion.This conversation is about fighting for your place — in sport, in business, and in life — even when the odds are stacked against you. It’s about refusing to shrink yourself to make others comfortable, and backing your ability no matter what anyone else thinks.🎧 Listen now to hear how Skye Falzon built her name, her business, and her mindset — one round, one challenge, and one hard-earned win at a time.If you’re loving the show, make sure to follow For Founder Sake wherever you get your podcasts, leave a rating, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder to stay in their own lane and keep fighting.–––Guest: Skye Falzon – Professional Boxer & Business Owner🥊 Ranked #2 in the world | Chasing a World Title in 2026🏋️‍♀️ Owner & Coach at The Ditch Gym📲 Follow Skye on Instagram: @skyefalzon🎙️ Follow the podcast: @for.founders.sake

Episode 3: Time, Money & Effort — The Real Cost of GrowthIn this episode of For Founder Sake, it’s just us — Em & Shelb — diving deep into one of the biggest realities of both business and life: the balance (and battle) between time, money, and effort.We explore how these three pillars show up everywhere — not just in business decisions, but in the gym, in relationships, in friendships, in skincare routines, and in the everyday choices that shape who we are. Because whether you’re growing a business or trying to improve yourself, it always comes back to how much time, money, and effort you’re willing (and able) to put in.This episode is a raw and honest chat between two founders who juggle motherhood, marriage, clients, and their own evolving goals. We share what each category means to us, where we’ve struggled to find balance, and which of the three tends to hit hardest depending on the season of life or business we’re in.Here’s what we unpack in this episode:The connection between time, money, and effort — and why you rarely get all three.How these themes show up in every area of life — from business to the gym, relationships to self-care.The moments in business where we’ve had to trade one for the other.How our perspectives differ — what Em values most vs what Shelb prioritises right now.The invisible labour behind “effort” and why it’s often underestimated.Why understanding your current season helps you make better decisions with all three.We also open up about our own businesses — the behind-the-scenes realities of running creative and coaching-based ventures, what it takes to stay consistent, and how we each navigate the constant push-pull between investing time, earning money, and managing energy.This episode is part pep talk, part therapy session, and part honest reflection on what it really looks like to chase growth without losing your sanity. If you’ve ever found yourself wishing for more time, more money, or more energy — this one’s for you.It’s a reminder that every choice comes with a cost, but when you understand which resource matters most to you right now, you can start making decisions that feel aligned instead of draining.🎧 Listen now for a grounded, relatable chat about the sacrifices and trade-offs that come with building something — whether it’s your business, your body, or your relationships — and how to find balance along the way.If you’re enjoying the podcast, make sure to follow For Founder Sake wherever you listen, leave a rating, and share this episode with a friend or fellow founder who gets it.–––Hosts: Emily & Shelby – Co-hosts of For Founder Sake💬 Real conversations about the highs, lows, and “FFS” moments of business and life.🎙️ Follow along on Instagram: @for.founders.sake

Episode 2: Building a Legacy of Consistency – with Emma from Sam’s PizzaIn this episode of For Founder Sake, we sit down with Emma — co-owner of Sam’s Pizza, one of the South Coast’s most loved and long-standing restaurants. For the past 16 years, Sam’s has been a staple in Batemans Bay, known not just for its delicious food, but for its welcoming atmosphere, loyal staff, and commitment to consistency.Emma opens up about what it really takes to keep a hospitality business thriving in a small coastal town, where seasons, tourism, and community loyalty all play a part. From building a strong team to adapting through major shifts like COVID, she shares the highs, the hard lessons, and the mindset that’s helped her stay steady through it all.We dive into the behind-the-scenes realities of running a restaurant that’s become a true local institution — the kind of place people come back to year after year, and generation after generation.Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:The story behind Sam’s Pizza and how it became a Batemans Bay favourite.Why consistency is the key ingredient to long-term success.The challenges of finding and keeping great staff in a small community.How COVID changed the hospitality landscape — and what’s stuck since.What it’s like running a business in a seasonal town, and how to prepare for the ups and downs.How Emma balances business with life, and the things she loves to do outside the restaurant.Emma’s story is a powerful reminder that success often comes down to showing up, doing the work, and never losing sight of why you started. Her approach to leadership, loyalty, and longevity shows that sustainable business isn’t about the next big idea — it’s about consistency, care, and connection.This episode is full of wisdom for anyone running a small business or leading a team, especially in regional or seasonal communities. Whether you’re in hospitality, retail, or service-based work, Emma’s honesty about the realities of running a business will leave you inspired to keep pushing forward — even when it’s tough.🎧 Listen now to hear how Emma and the team at Sam’s Pizza continue to create something special for their community — one slice (and one loyal customer) at a time.If you’re enjoying the show, make sure to follow For Founder Sake wherever you get your podcasts, leave us a rating, and share this episode with another business owner or founder who’ll relate to the journey.–––Guest: Emma – Co-owner of Sam’s Pizza Batemans Bay📍 Batemans Bay, NSW🍕 Serving the South Coast community for over 16 years📲 Follow along on Instagram: @samspizzabatemansbay🌐 Visit: www.samspizzabatemansbay.com.au

Episode 1: Welcome to For Founder Sake – Meet Em & ShelbyWelcome to the very first episode of For Founder Sake! In this intro episode, we (Em & Shelby) pull back the curtain and share a little about who we are, what we’ve built, and why we’ve come together to create this podcast.Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode:Who we are – meet Em & Shelby, two business founders, mums, and mates.A look into our backgrounds – from early careers to where we are now.Our business journeys – the wins, the hard lessons, and everything in between.What brought us together and why we decided to team up.The vision behind For Founder Sake – what you can expect from the pod and why we think these conversations matter.We’re so excited to kick things off and can’t wait to bring you honest, unfiltered chats about the founder journey – the good, the bad, and the very FFS moments along the way.If you enjoy this episode, we’d love for you to follow the show and share it with a fellow founder or business owner who’d get value from it.