Momentum Leaders

Most investors blame the economy for slow growth – but the real problem is poor strategy, misunderstood borrowing power, and holding the wrong assets for too long.   On Momentum Media's Smart Property Investment Show, host Liam Garman sits down with Arjun Paliwal, CEO of InvestorKit, to discuss why macro fear is distracting investors from the decisions that actually drive portfolio growth.   Paliwal argues that while many wait for rates to fall, top investors focus on micro-decisions – the small moves that improve borrowing capacity and unlock momentum now.   He reveals how overlooked factors, such as credit limits and living expenses, quietly restrict how far investors can scale.   The duo also breaks down why holding the wrong property can stall growth and how strategic selling can free up capital and accelerate portfolio growth.   According to Garman and Paliwal, the takeaway is simple: property itself isn't the strategy; it's how you use it that determines whether you grow or stay stuck. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts and by following Smart Property Investment on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you would like to get in touch with our team, email [email protected] for more insights, or hear your voice on the show by recording a question below.

In this special episode of Momentum Media's The Smart Property Investment Show, hosts Phil Tarrant and Liam Garman unpack the external forces shaking Australia's property market, from social media influence to rising fuel costs and policy changes. They explore how digital platforms are becoming powerful tools for building personal brands and expanding reach in the real estate industry. Tarrant shares how leveraging social media and collaborating with industry leaders is helping drive engagement and influence across the sector. Beyond digital strategy, the conversation turns to rising diesel prices and their broader impact on inflation, interest rates, and the cost of living. The pair also break down the Reserve Bank of Australia's rate hikes, arguing they are largely driven by domestic economic pressures rather than global events. They stress the importance of separating short-term tactics from long-term strategies when making property investment decisions. Government intervention is another key focus, with new taxes and regulatory changes in states like Victoria and NSW raising concerns for investors. Tarrant and Garman question whether these policies could discourage investment and create unintended consequences across the market. Ultimately, the episode reinforces the need for resilience, with investors encouraged to build strong, adaptable portfolios that can withstand ongoing economic and policy uncertainty.

In this episode of Momentum Media's Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Steve Kuper and Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson unpack the concept of sovereign industrial capability and its growing importance amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.   The trio explore how the idea of sovereignty has evolved from a defence-specific concept into a broader national priority, particularly as global supply chains face disruption and Australia confronts its structural dependencies.   They discuss the lack of a clear, shared definition of sovereign capability, and how misunderstandings persist even within defence and national security circles.   The conversation highlights the need for Australia to identify and secure critical capabilities domestically, ranging from fuel and logistics to data and cyber resilience.   The episode also reflects on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and questions whether Australia has made meaningful progress in strengthening self-reliance, or if it remains vulnerable to external shocks.   With rising geopolitical tensions and shifting global dynamics, the speakers consider whether the era of globalisation is reaching its limits.   These topics include engaging discussion across: The meaning (and ambiguity) of sovereign industrial capability in modern Australia. Lessons from COVID-19 and ongoing reliance on fragile global supply chains. The impact of geopolitical conflict on fuel security, logistics and economic stability. The challenge of building true national resilience versus shifting dependence. The role of political leadership and decision making in shaping sovereign capability. The effects of political fragmentation and polarisation on national security planning. Whether globalisation has reached its limits and the rise of nationalism. The practical components of sovereignty, including fuel, munitions, cyber resilience and industrial capacity. Enjoy the podcast!

What does the war in Iran have to do with Australian housing? Potentially, everything. In this bold episode of Momentum Media's Contested Ground Podcast, Phillip Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson and leading real estate commentator Tom Panos unpack one of the most overlooked questions in Australia right now: how escalating conflict in the Middle East could reshape the nation's property market.   From fuel prices, inflation and interest rates to rents, construction costs, investor confidence and housing supply, this is a serious attempt to connect global conflict with local property pain (or, maybe, opportunity). The conversation explores whether Australia's real estate market is resilient enough to withstand another major shock, what it means for home owners and investors, and why the consequences of war can hit far closer to home than many realise.   This is not just a discussion about foreign affairs. This podcast episode is sharp, original and one of the first serious efforts to examine how geopolitics could directly shape the future of Australian housing. Enjoy the podcast!

Australia has long prided itself on being the "Lucky Country", celebrating a culture of "she'll be right" now that a national culture of apathy is biting at home as the world continues to burn.   As the war in the Middle East continues to rage by the day, Australia and Australians are beginning to feel the very real ramifications in our daily lives.   All of this comes as Australia's political leaders and policymakers continue to point fingers at one another for the respective failures over the past three decades that have all combined to leave Australia dangerously exposed to the shocks of the new multipolar world.   But these aren't the only challenges that are serving to leave Australia in a volatile, unpredictable position, as social cohesion, industrial and economic resilience and demographics combine to create a powder keg for both the public and its policymakers.   Contested Ground host Steve Kuper is joined by Ben Dullroy of Beaten Zone Venture Partners and Bravo Delta Advisory as they break down the combination of global and domestic factors shaping the nation's resilience, stability and security.   This conversation comes at a time when the public and private debate continues about who has failed the nation, were the ultimate costs of neoliberal hyperglobalisation worth it and can we pivot quickly enough to secure our economic, political and strategic interests? Enjoy the podcast.

In this episode of Momentum Media's Broker Daily Uncut, host Julian Barnes is joined by Finni brokers Eva Loisance and Costa Arvanitopoulos to unpack the latest shifts across housing and lending. The panel explores slowing price growth, affordability pressures, and changing buyer behaviour, as demand shifts toward more accessible property types and markets. They also touch on lender trends, serviceability challenges, and the growing role of non-majors.   Loisance, Arvanitopoulos, and Barnes then move on to examine the rise of sophisticated scams targeting borrowers, raising new concerns around trust and verification in an increasingly digital landscape.   Rounding things off, the trio looks at the lender market and which banks and non-banks are performing well from a broker's perspective.

On the episode of Momentum Media's Under The Hood podcast, host Imogen Wilson is joined in the studio by accounting practice coach, Amanda Gascoigne, to break down what it truly means to embody "better practice, better life".   Tune in to hear more about: Amanda's career journey and how she got to where she is today. Why coaches and mentors are key in helping practice owners achieve success. How the accounting industry has changed over the last 27 years. The benefits of reaching out for help. Amanda's key roles as part of the GST Stewardship Group and TPB Board. Enjoy the podcast!

In this week's episode of Momentum Media's Business Accelerator, Alex Whitlock and Jason Back examine the hidden cost of neglected business hygiene, from outdated branding and inactive social channels to inconsistent messaging across platforms. As consumer behaviour shifts from word-of-mouth discovery to word-of-mouth validation, they discuss why brokers are increasingly judged on what clients see online before making contact. Dormant LinkedIn profiles, stale websites, mismatched imagery, and fragmented branding can quietly erode trust, and you may never know you lost the deal.   The episode outlines how to conduct a practical business hygiene audit, assess whether your digital presence builds confidence, and decide which platforms genuinely deserve your focus.   Tune in to learn how tightening up the small details can protect credibility, support referrals, and ensure your business remains visible and relevant in 2026.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Secrets of the Top 100 podcast, deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo, chief economist at PRD, to discuss how real estate agents can harness data to grow their footprint.   Dr Mardiasmo unpacks how the explosion of accessible data has changed the balance of power between agents and consumers. Where market intelligence once came from industry knowledge, buyers and sellers now arrive armed with Google searches, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and price trackers – meaning you need to be more accurate than ever.   The discussion examines how agents can differentiate themselves in a data-saturated market, with Mardiasmo arguing that value now lies in interpretation, crafting clear and credible narratives.   The episode also dives into the risks of oversimplification, the importance of data literacy across agencies, and why business data is critical for smarter resourcing and competitive strategy.

In this episode of Momentum Media's REB Business Empowerment Showcase, editor Liam Garman sits down with Lloyd Ernst, founder and CEO of Cloudstaff, for a deep dive into how principals and directors can build scalable, future-ready, and tech-enabled real estate businesses.   Ernst reflects on his business's journey, founding companies that have since become multinational, providing insight into how remote workforces that align with local culture and performance objectives are fundamental for growth in today's real estate market.   Ernst and Garman then dive into the challenges of building trust and accountability across offshore teams, how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping workflows, and why the next generation of agencies will operate more like tech-enabled service companies than traditional offices. They then explore how Cloudstaff helps companies do this securely, overseeing cyber risks and enabling staff to effectively support the business.   Finally, Ernst offers practical insights for principals on how to leverage remote teams of any size without losing control, quality, or brand integrity, and explains how Cloudstaff's tailored training ensures offshore staff can quickly integrate and contribute to business success.  

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Steve Kuper and Liam Garman speak with Agsecure's Andrew Henderson as they unpack the recently released US food security strategy.   The trio unpack the details underpinning the pivot in American thinking resulting in the development of the food security strategy.   They also discuss the key priorities and focus areas identified in the food security strategy, ranging from concerns around biosecurity, foreign ownership of agricultural land through to supply chain bottlenecks and constraints for key inputs.   The trio also unpack the lessons for Australia as we begin our own national conversation about our food security and the challenges we face despite exporting 70 per cent of our annual agricultural produce.   Enjoy the Podcast

In the latest episode of Momentum Media's Finance Specialist produced by Broker Daily, hosts Liam Garman and Trent Carter examine how brokers should prepare for and respond to a cyber attack, as data breaches become an increasing risk for SMEs in financial services. The discussion focuses on practical steps brokerages should have in place before an incident, including documented response plans, tested backups, and multi-factor authentication, before outlining what to do in the critical first 24–48 hours following a breach.   Garman and Carter also explore communication strategies with clients and regulators, the role of cyber insurance, and the importance of conducting a thorough post-incident review to prevent repeat attacks.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson, and Steve Kuper discuss the immediate aftermath of the US–Israeli strikes against Iran and the ramifications for Australia.   The trio lays the foundation for a mini-series of focused podcast conversations over the coming weeks to address the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on Australia and the Australian public.   These topics will include engaging conversations with a range of experts across the following: The impact on social cohesion and the rise of foreign interference in Australia's diaspora communities. Australia's declining industrial sovereignty and the impact of contested, frayed and interrupted supply chains. The economic impacts of the conflict in the Middle East and Australia's cost-of-living crisis and the fuel security challenges Australia faces. The impact on Australia's key economic pillars and the connective tissue of logistic supply chains. Cyber security, disinformation and proxy activity in Australia. Migration and the challenges facing Australia's diaspora communities. Questions relating to Australia's geographic isolation and the psychology behind our "Tyranny of Distance" and the impact on Australia's security posture. Questions relating to what kind of "Middle Power" Australia wants to be. Enjoy the podcast.

With entry-level roles and role redesign flooding the AI transformation discourse, one expert reflects on what the next few years could hold.   In this episode of Momentum Media's The HR Leader Podcast, host Carlos Tse speaks with Gartner advisory director Jonathan Tabah (pictured), who reflects on how the AI transformation is unrivalled among technological revolutions, why AI is losing on "human touch" but winning in creativity, and how the changing rates of entry-level hiring are reshaping organisational structures across the workforce.   Tabah also delves into three potential horizons for the AI transformation, why many organisations will be picking the "low-hanging fruit" of AI in the next few years, why ignoring the "workforce within the machine" can lead to disaster, the implications of attitude in AI adoption, why there is no one size fits all for AI adoption, best practice for AI adoption, and why having a "zero-sum mentality" on AI will stop organisations from getting ahead.

In this episode of  Momentum Media's The Progress Report, host Tash Taylor sits down with Gabby Costigan, a powerhouse leader in the global defence sector and a pioneer for women in STEM. From her early days in the Australian Defence Force to becoming the first female CEO of BAE Systems Australia, Gabby's journey is a masterclass in resilience, career pivoting and leading with purpose. Beyond the boardroom, Gabby discusses the vital role of mentorship and her deep-rooted passion for advocating for defence families, offering invaluable advice for anyone looking to lead with resilience and purpose. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

Earlier this year, Katie Thomas from Focus Finance took out the top spot of The Adviser's Elite Broker Ranking 2025 – Residential, becoming the first woman to do so.   In this episode of Momentum Media's Elite Broker podcast, host Annie Kane sits down with the Hunter Valley-based broker to find out how she wrote $496 million in residential loans over the last financial year, with her broker colleagues also writing substantial volumes.   Tune in to find out: How her relationship-first, self-sourced lead generation model works. How her brokerage manages to lodge nearly 1,000 applications a year. Her advice for building a successful, rapidly growing brokerage. And much more!

In this episode of Momentum Media's Contested Ground, hosts Phil Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson and new co-host, Steve Kuper, detail the intricacies of the proposed Russia–Ukraine peace deal announced by US President Donald Trump.   The trio also unpack three emerging security issues: a proposed Russia–Ukraine peace deal, heightened Chinese activity in the northern Pacific, and suspected Russian sabotage operations in Europe.   The peace proposal centres on a 30-day ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, and Ukraine conceding or freezing control of occupied territories. Ukraine would permanently renounce NATO membership, cap its military at around 600,000 personnel, and restrict long-range weapons. In return, the US and its partners would offer conditional security guarantees and gradually lift sanctions, with up to US$100 billion in frozen Russian assets used for reconstruction.   Chinese maritime activity has intensified, with five survey vessels operating in the north-west Pacific during major US-led exercises. Pacific analysts warn this undersea mapping may support future conflict planning.   In the UK, authorities are investigating whether Russia planted an incendiary parcel that ignited in a DHL warehouse, potentially linked to a similar case in Germany, part of a suspected GRU "mayhem" hybrid campaign.

In this episode of Momentum Media's REB Podcast, editor Liam Garman sits down with McGrath Estate Agents' founder, managing director, and CEO, John McGrath, for a rare deep dive into what separates good agents from truly remarkable ones – and why the next few years will reshape real estate as we know it.   McGrath reflects on four decades in the industry, unpacking the leadership philosophies, cultural frameworks, and personal disciplines that have shaped one of Australia's most influential real estate brands.   He explains why remarkability remains the ultimate differentiator, how leaders can clear and create energy within teams, and why reinvention is no longer optional for agents who want longevity.   The conversation tackles the sector's biggest trust challenges head-on – from the underquoting culture to the real impact of misinformation – and McGrath makes a compelling case for integrity as a non-negotiable competitive advantage.   McGrath also explores the rapid evolution of technology, warning that agents who resist artificial intelligence (AI) risk being left behind. He outlines how digital tools, automation, and emerging AI capabilities will supercharge service delivery, elevate client experience, and streamline business operations.

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy, as they unpack the major milestones for Defence and defence industry.   The pair discuss a range of topics, including: The impact of the SEA 3000 decision and implications for industrial and defence cooperation between Australia and Japan. Progress made on the nation's Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance program, including the breaking ground of the first Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missile factory outside of Norway and local manufacturing contracts for a range of guided weapons. The ongoing reform processes designed to improve the efficiency and ease of doing business between Defence and industry. The lessons learned from the 2023 National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program and how they will help shape the 2026 plans.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's REB Podcast, Liam Garman, editor of Real Estate Business, sits down with Arjun Paliwal from InvestorKit to explore the innovative strategies driving success in the Australian real estate market.   Paliwal reflects on his team's approach to innovation, explaining how doing things differently and focusing on strategies that deliver results has driven record-breaking growth and a surge in referrals.   He highlights the central role of customer satisfaction, showing how creating "raving fans" fuels organic growth more than advertising ever could.   The conversation delves into InvestorKit's use of specialisation and technology, demonstrating how focused teams and automation streamline processes and enhance service delivery.   InvestorKit recently won the REB Innovator of the Year – Residential Buyer's Agency award.   Paliwal also emphasises the importance of adaptability and continuous improvement, explaining how a culture of learning from mistakes keeps the business ahead of industry changes.   The discussion touches on broader market trends, including the influence of macroeconomic factors, interest rates, and the ongoing shortage of established property supply on buyer behaviour.   Paliwal also explores the evolving buyer's agent industry, advocating for higher standards and professionalism to ensure quality service as the sector grows.

How do you go from growing up in Ukraine to winning Academic of the Year in Australia? Dr Oleksandra Molloy, senior lecturer in aviation at UNSW Canberra, shares her extraordinary journey. Momentum Media's Tash Taylor dives into Oleksandra's courageous move to Australia and her experience pioneering research in emerging technologies, particularly her vital work on drones in modern warfare and the Defence Trailblazer program. Oleksandra details her efforts to inspire the next generation of women in STEM and offers practical insight into managing a high-impact academic career with family life, emphasising that resilience is key to achieving high goals and making a lasting impact in complex and essential industries. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts.  

As regulations get more complex, accounting firms are teaming up with brokerages to give their clients better financial outcomes. Tune in to this episode of Accountants Daily Insider to hear from Tom and Ben Hawley, founders of Azura Financial, to find out how brokers and accountants can create strategic relationships to help clients and drive further business.    Tune in to hear more about: Why should there be strategic collaboration between the broking and accounting professions? How accountants can lean on, and leverage, brokers. Differences in finances that accountants and brokers need to be aware of. The outlook of the accountant-broker relationship over the next five years.

In October, a remarkable journey came to an end when 16-year-old Byron Waller touched down at Brisbane Airport following 67 days circumnavigating the globe in a light aircraft.   Covering 41,700km in his Sling TSi, Byron's odyssey through the skies took him over oceans, deserts, ice fields, and everything in between, including a landing at the Grand Canyon and guest appearances at big airshows.   It was a monumental effort from a young aviator who just a few years ago was bedridden with chronic illnesses, and turned to flying – including becoming the youngest pilot to circumnavigate Australia, at age 14 – to make his dreams a reality.   On Momentum Media's Australian Aviation Podcast, host Jake Nelson talks to Byron and his mum Jeni about his incredible achievement – and his future aviation ambitions.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Secrets of the Top 100 Agents podcast, host Alex Whitlock sits down with Nick Boyd, CEO of Belle Property and Hockingstuart, to discuss the future of sales and property management – from maximising the human connection to building brand loyalty.   The conversation explores Nick's philosophy on coaching and mentorship, which he sees as critical to performance and career longevity, and how this focus has supported the network's growth from 40 offices to over 200 nationwide.   The discussion turns to the rise of technology and AI, with Nick emphasising that while AI can enhance consumer-to-brand interactions, the human relationship remains the foundation of trust and success in real estate.   The pair then unpack the dynamics of today's market, noting the balance across most regions while highlighting opportunities in Queensland and Perth, and the role of skilled agents in delivering outcomes for clients.   Finally, Nick outlines his vision for the future – a profession gaining gravitas, built on trust, performance, and the enduring value of relationships.

Amid myriad professional, technological, economic, and sociocultural changes, it is essential that HR professionals face such shifting sands with an open mind, which will allow, one chief people and culture officer says, for greater creativity, collaboration, and innovation.   In this episode of Momentum Media's HR Leader Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation chief people and culture officer Mariam Hares about her journey in the profession, what her day-to-day in the not-for-profit looks like, the challenges and opportunities she's seeing on the horizon for HR professionals and teams, and how well HR is doing, as a business unit, in adapting to change.   Hares also delves into bringing all business units along for the ride in adapting to change, the questions that HR needs to answer in the talent space, leaning into automation, getting incentives right, creating a strategy to address the many workforce challenges, and her best practice guidance to other HR professionals in the face of voluminous market change.

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, managing editor Steve Kuper speaks with Andrew Henderson, director of AgSecure and a leading voice on agricultural resilience, biosecurity, and national preparedness.   Together, they explore the recently released National Food Security Strategy discussion paper, the importance of critical inputs like fuel and fertiliser, the implications of trade disputes, and the growing need to integrate food systems into defence planning.   The pair also discuss why food security is no longer just an agricultural issue – it's a national security imperative. With global supply chains under pressure, climate risks mounting, and adversaries willing to target agricultural systems through biosecurity breaches or even agroterrorism, Australia faces a complex challenge in safeguarding the nation's food and fibre production.   From the risks of varroa mite and foot and mouth disease to the opportunities of regional self-reliance and biotechnology, Henderson outlines why food security must be elevated to the same level of priority as Australia's defence posture – and why a secure Indo-Pacific is, ultimately, a well-fed one.   Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In the current climate, maintaining psychological safety in law departments requires much more than box-ticking – a stronger focus on culture, and use of AI to ensure greater focus on human issues, is paramount moving forward, says an award-winning and GC Powerlist-recognised group general counsel.   In this episode of Momentum Media's The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back former group GC of Tabcorp, Ivana Kovacevic, who now serves as a fractional GC and advisory board member for Thomson Reuters Practical Law, and keynote speaker, to discuss the importance of building psychological safety in legal teams in the current climate, her perception of what constitutes psychological safety for law departments, and how well the in-house sector is faring when it comes to ensuring such safety. Kovacevic also delves into the need to move beyond compliance box-ticking, the urgency is prioritising psychological safety, the starting point for in-house teams in creating and maintaining psychologically safe working environments, catering to idiosyncratic needs within one's team, practical steps she has taken within her own teams and what has worked, making time to implement changes, using AI to take a more human approach, leading by example, and the need to be curious and vulnerable.  

In this episode of the Momentum Media's REB Business Empowerment Showcase, host Emilie Lauer speaks with the chair of the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA), Lachlan Vidler, to unpack the current state and key trends of Australia's real estate investment market.   The discussion delves into the latest PIPA investor sentiment survey which reveals the key challenges for property investors, the impact of the three rate cuts, surging demand, limited stock, and rapidly rising property prices.   Lachlan highlights the difficulty of adding new stock to the market, citing construction hurdles, regulatory red tape, and high costs that limit both large- and small-scale investors.   According to the survey, policy changes, compliance costs, and land tax pressures are prompting some investors to sell.   Melbourne has emerged as a top choice for investment due to relative affordability, with Brisbane and regional markets also attracting attention, thanks to strong infrastructure and lifestyle appeal.   While nearly 60 per cent still consider it a good time to invest, Lachlan expresses cautious optimism, noting potential rate cuts and first home buyer schemes while urging investors to avoid FOMO and plan strategically.   Did you like this episode? Show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (REB Podcast Network) and by liking and following Real Estate Business on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend a voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Contested Ground podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by the Honourable Andrew Hastie MP, shadow minister for home affairs, for a hard-hitting discussion on the shifting nature of Australia's national security challenges.   No longer confined to conventional defence or counter-terrorism, the security debate now spans economic sovereignty, industrial security, and social cohesion. Against the backdrop of recent revelations of Iranian espionage attempts on Australian soil, Hastie warns that hostile foreign actors are probing Australia's vulnerabilities, not only in cyber space and critical infrastructure, but in the trust that underpins our diverse society.   Throughout the conversation, Hastie shares how his perspective has sharpened since stepping into the shadow portfolio following his time as shadow minister for Defence. He outlines the emerging contest for resilience – whether in defending supply chains, protecting advanced technologies, or insulating the national economy from coercion.   Kuper presses Hastie on the domestic implications of foreign espionage operations, particularly the way they threaten multicultural harmony and fuel social division. Hastie stresses that Australia must be proactive in countering influence operations, strengthening intelligence partnerships, and reinforcing trust across society.   The discussion then broadens to the strategic importance of resilience, a whole-of-nation approach that prepares Australians not just to respond to crises, but to withstand them.   Hastie points to key policy gaps, from weak industrial capacity to fragmented national planning, and calls for a more integrated framework that links defence, economy, and society into a coherent security posture.   As Australia navigates an increasingly contested world, this episode challenges listeners to rethink what security really means. The conversation offers sharp insights into how Australia can adapt to a new era of threats and why resilience must sit at the heart of any credible national security agenda.   Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

In this latest episode of Momentum Media's  Broker Daily Uncut, host Alex Whitlock is joined by Sebastian Watkins, CEO and co-founder of Aussie Home Loans.   Here, Watkins outlined a bold new vision to transform the iconic mortgage broking brand into a comprehensive platform for the entire property journey.   Faced with a mature broking market where differentiation is key, Aussie is moving beyond finance to disrupt the traditionally fragmented process of buying a home.   Watkins identified the core problem: customers currently juggle multiple relationships with portals, brokers, conveyancers, and real estate agents, leading to a disjointed experience.

This week on UTH, Sonia Gibson, founder of Accounting Heart, joins Imogen Wilson to chat about the importance of business succession, exit strategies, and why more business owners need to take the concept seriously.   Tune in to hear more about: What business succession means and why it's important. Why such a big gap in business succession knowledge exists. Succession and exit strategy advice. How accountants can facilitate smoother transitions between business owners. Pros and cons of selling to a third party v. family members or employees.   You can contact the Accountants Daily team and podcast host Imogen at [email protected].  

Gerard 'Rolfsy' Rolfs has been in banking for around 40 years and third party for 24. In this time, he has witnessed immense change as the broker channel cemented itself as a core aspect of lending. The senior relationship manager at CBA is now approaching retirement. He joined this special episode of Broker Daily Uncut to discuss his time in the industry and what has helped drive success.   From fax machines to AI, Rolfs has been at the forefront of the manual to digital revolution. The humble beginnings of third party would be unrecognisable to the modern broker.   Despite this, the role of a relationship manager has remained, and genuine, consistent relationships are the backbone of success.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Pivot Wealth founder Ben Nash joins host Keith Ford to break down the secrets to leveraging digital platforms for business growth and client engagement while dealing with the compliance challenges that come with professionals communicating in the digital realm.   Nash highlights that his journey into content marketing began as a deliberate strategy to generate leads independently of traditional referral networks and offers practical advice for others venturing into the social media space, suggesting they start by mastering one content format before expanding.   Tune in to hear: Why focus and consistency are key to building traction in online content. How prioritising authenticity is a better method than trying to game the algorithm when building an audience. Whether getting labelled a "finfluencer" is a drawback for a professional adviser. How you can help prospective clients engaging with your content prepare for the advice process.  

In this episode, REB's Liam Garman is joined by the CEO of Laing+Simmons and president of the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA), Leanne Pilkington, to talk about the challenges and opportunities facing the Australian real estate industry.   The duo starts by discussing the upcoming Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) reforms, set to take effect in July 2026, which will require agencies to register as reporting entities and implement policies aligned with AUSTRAC's requirements.   Leanne stresses that while some businesses may manage compliance internally, complex transactions involving foreign investors will need more rigorous checks, and external support may be necessary.   She highlighted that AI and automation can streamline compliance and property management, allowing agents to focus on client relationships.   She further emphasised the importance of building a cohesive team culture through understanding individual motivations, hiring aligned with company values, and clear communication of vision.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, working life has changed significantly. Now, research is starting to identify certain professional and environmental trends that businesses need to be on top of.   In this episode of The HR Leader Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by the founding board director of R U OK?, Graeme Cowan, to discuss why uncertainty is so prevalent in workplaces in the current climate, why the proliferation of remote and flexible working is a worrying development, the varying levels of trust in the workforce and why it is damaging, a decline in employee engagement and the consequences of not paying attention to that lack of engagement, and the ongoing wellbeing and mental health crisis.   Cowan also delves into the broader business considerations inherent with addressing wellbeing concerns, why the wellbeing focus isn't working, how and why more managers want out of their workplaces, how business leaders can better support managers, why change leadership needs to improve, and the decline of respect in the workplace.

In this episode of Momentum Media's Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Dr Ross Babbage, CEO of Strategic Forum and senior non-resident fellow at the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments.   The pair discuss a range of subjects following Babbage's recent trip to the United States, including:   Australia's need to prepare for a more direct involvement in kinetic regional conflict in the Indo-Pacific – including recognising that we are no longer on the periphery of geopolitical competition. The multidimensional depth and facets of the challenges being posed by the People's Republic of China: Babbage emphasises that China's strategy includes economic coercion, hybrid conflict and soft power, and that Western assumptions about China's integration leading to liberalisation have proven wrong. How Western governments have failed to effectively communicate the strategic risks to their populations: Babbage argues that public awareness is essential for national resilience and policy support, and that many in the public are willing to act once properly informed. Australia's urgent need to expand and rethink its defence and industrial capabilities to meet the growing expectations of the new US Trump administration. Enjoy the Podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this special episode of Momentum Media's The HR Leader Podcast, Taylor Dee Hawkins joins the podcast to talk about the moral and commercial imperatives to best practice with management of a workforce that is more diverse than ever before and the benefits that come with it. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Taylor Dee Hawkins, the Foundations for Tomorrow managing director, about the work that she does, the extent to which business leaders are ready and able to lead so many different generations in the workforce, leaders' cognisance of the need to do so, the dangers in not properly managing workers of all ages, the questions that businesses need to ask of themselves, and the practical steps to be taken.

In this episode of Momentum Media's The ifa Show, hosts Keith Ford and Maja Garaca Djurdjevic are joined by Blake Briggs, chief executive of the Financial Services Council, to unpack what the federal election and new-look Treasury portfolio will mean for advisers and the broader industry.   Briggs explains that Dr Daniel Mulino enters the financial services minister role with a suite of policies announced under his predecessor but not yet completed. He also stresses the importance of a deliberative approach that would allow Mulino to put his own stamp on the portfolio while continuing the reform process.   Listen as they discuss:   The importance of stakeholders engaging constructively with the government on financial services reform. Why the $3 million super tax remains a contentious issue and the need to re-think its design. Where the Coalition will look for economic policy in the wake of its heavy election loss.

Remuneration and incentives have always been a Pandora's box for business leaders. In the post-pandemic climate, however, in which employee values have shifted, the equation has become trickier.   In this episode of The HR Leader Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with TalentCode HR founder and managing director Trudy MacDonald about the difficulties business leaders have long had with implementing successful remuneration and incentive strategies, how COVID-19 spawned a shift in employee thinking around work/life balance, the Great Exhaustion and its implications, the impact of resenteeism, and how difficult it is for employers to cater to idiosyncratic needs of all staff.   MacDonald also reflects on whether employees are staying put right now (following the Great Resignation), employee disgruntlement amid high inflation and a cost-of-living crisis, how the latest WGEA data might impact employee thinking, the steps that HR professionals and C-suite executives need to take, measuring success, and the folly of viewing remuneration as an isolated issue.  

In this episode of the Contested Ground podcast, hosts Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson and Phil Tarrant discuss the heroic actions of Australian soldiers in World War II, before turning to the big issues in the upcoming federal election.   The pair begin the podcast discussing Joan Beaumont's book, Gull Force, and the treatment of Australian prisoners of war on the islands of Ambon and Hainan. They then discuss the role of Australia's Reserves in warfare, before unpacking the fundamental importance of seizing and holding ground in warfare. Thompson and Tarrant then turn to the upcoming federal election, unpacking some of the big issues facing Australian society, including housing policy and building forward-looking infrastructure for Australia's financial future.   Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Secrets of the Top 100 Agents podcast, speaker, trainer and coach Josh Phegan sits down with REB editor Liam Garman to unpack how agents can strive for excellence and what they should expect from the property market over the next 12 months.   The pair begin the podcast discussing what's in store for the property market over 2025, including the impact of the upcoming "property election" and potential rate changes, before discussing whether it might lead to unforeseen consequences for agents.   The speaker, trainer and coach then shares his top tips for developing one's mindset and motivation, before discussing common mistakes that he sees as agents adopt new technologies.   Josh wraps up the podcast sharing his must-read books for agents looking to broaden their horizons and continue learning.   Enjoy the podcast, The REB team

With anticipation ramping up for the upcoming federal election, many are keeping a keen eye on the policies and promises given, particularly regarding the nation's SMEs.   In this latest episode of Finance Specialist, hosts Jack Campbell and Accendo's Trent Carter discussed the range of government policies, such as Labor's new national small business strategy, and how they will affect Australia''s small businesses.   Additionally, Campbell and Carter unpack economic uncertainty around international tariffs, along with some advice for brokers to help them navigate the ever-changing economic landscape.

The pandemic forced many industries to adopt remote and hybrid work structures. Now off the back of COVID-19, some industries are choosing to remain virtual.   Accendo Finance's Trent Carter discussed these themes in this latest episode of Momentum Media's Finance Specialist. His broking business has gone fully remote, the benefits of which are massive overhead cost savings. Despite this, Carter said there still needs to be connection. While some clients are fine to engage over video call, others can benefit from face-to-face time. This can come in the form of visiting their business or home. This practice of showing up to where they live or work can also give a broker insight into how they operate, strengthening the ability to service them.

In this special episode of Momentum Media's Relative Return Unplugged, we present shadow treasurer Angus Taylor's address at Momentum Media's Election 2025 event, followed by a Q&A covering the Coalition's plans for the financial services sector.   Taylor outlined what a Peter Dutton-led government would deliver for the Australian economy, why the role of financial advisers is "absolutely central" to its economic blueprint, and how the nation's leader needs to handle negotiations with US President Donald Trump. Tune in to hear about: The Coalition's plans to reshape the economy. How Taylor plans to get the cost-of-living crisis under control. Why the shadow treasurer aims to double financial adviser numbers.

In this special episode, Momentum Media's Annie Kane sits down with Anja Pannek, the CEO of the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia, to unpack the big issues and opportunities facing the mortgage and finance broking industry in Australia. Tune in to find out: Why the payroll tax issue is threatening industry and borrowers. The value of brokers to the economy and borrowers. Why she believes minimum broker education standards need to be raised. And much more!

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by former secretary of home affairs, Mike Pezzullo, to unpack the precedent established by Beijing's naval taskforce circumnavigating Australia and how to deal with more in the future.   The pair discuss a range of issues, including:   The government's response to, and the timeline behind the notice of the Chinese naval taskforce's live-fire training exercises in the Tasman Sea. The tactical and strategic ramifications and shortfalls on display in the Australian Defence Force and government's response to the taskforce. A suggested crash course program to rapidly accelerate Australia's level of tactical and strategic preparedness within the next term of Parliament. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Andrew Hastie, shadow minister for defence, to discuss the government's response to the recent "gunboat" diplomacy by China. The pair also discuss the following: Is the government trying to keep the Australian public calm by talking down the actions of the Chinese naval task force currently off the east coast of Australia? Does the Australian Defence Force have the tools and resources it needs to stand up to a great power adversary, particularly following the changes in posture and focus by the US government? What are the steps we need to take in order to make Australia less susceptible to coercion by a great power and build our resilience to make sure that Australia isn't compromised in the event of conflict in the region? Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team  

On this episode of Momentum Media's Relative Return Unplugged, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by AMP's chief economist Shane Oliver to break down the Reserve Bank of Australia's long anticipated rate cut to 4.1 per cent.   Is the central bank being overly cautious? What does this mean for inflation, the job market, and future rate moves? Tune in as the pair unpacks the economic and political implications of the decision – and what lies ahead for interest rates in 2025.   Listen as they discuss: The election timing speculation and economic uncertainties shaping the RBA's decisions. Whether the RBA will continue easing, and when. The impact of the bank's new two-board system on future monetary policy decisions.

In an exclusive interview with Momentum Media's financial services team members: Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Keith Ford, shadow financial services minister Luke Howarth discusses the Coalition's goals for financial advice.   In this conversation, Howarth shares his perspective on the current state of the sector, what a change in government would bring about for financial advice reform efforts, the prospect of super funds returning to advice, and what needs to change regarding the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort.   Tune in to hear the shadow minister's vision for the advice profession ahead of next year's federal election.   You'll hear: What the Coalition's plan to implement all the Quality of Advice Review recommendations means in practice. His plans to turn around what has been a contentious relationship between the advice profession and successive governments on both sides of politics. How Australia's economy is looking following an extended period of high inflation and increased government spending. Whether the shadow minister is just talking a good game ahead of an election or if financial advice would be better off under a Coalition government.

In this episode of Momentum Media's Contested Ground podcast, special host Steve Kuper is joined by co-host Major General (Ret'd) Marcus Thompson and AMP's chief economist, Shane Oliver, to discuss the latest economic data and what it means for the nation's economic and national security.   The trio discuss the recently released Australian gross domestic product figures and the impact of Australia's ailing economy on national security.   They also discuss: Australia's collapsing productivity and the growth of record government spending on the national economy and the baked-in, long-term structural deficits that will characterise the future fiscal outlook for the country. The need to boost economic complexity and diversity to better prepare the nation to face the mounting geopolitical and "whole-of-nation" efforts being leveraged against Australia in this new multipolar world and how best to deliver such a monumental change. The urgent need for a serious national debate with the Australian public about the future of the country and its economic future and the intersection of national security.