Bold Moves

Host Nick Broadley, founder of St Andrew’s Society Melbourne, sits down with member Ian Gardiner. In Episode 2, Ian Gardiner — a Scot from Bearsden now deeply embedded in Australia’s startup and venture capital scene — reflects on the moments, mindsets and missteps that shaped his journey. From bleak early mornings rowing on the Clyde to a teacher’s blunt push toward Oxford, Ian unpacks the decisions that only make sense in hindsight and the paths not taken.  Now co-founder of Innovation Bay and partner at Jelix Ventures (which was founded by his wife Andrea), he shares a candid view of what it really takes to build and back successful companies — from raising capital and building teams to asking founders the hard question: why do you want this to be your life? Along the way, Ian explores the power of “selfish altruism” — giving first to build meaningful networks — and the importance of community, drawing on his experience with YPO and forum-based leadership models. There’s honesty too, in reflecting on when tenacity becomes a weakness, and the lessons learned from staying too long in roles without momentum. Grounded by life beyond business — whether on a bike, the ski slopes, or walking through Waverley Cemetery — Ian offers a perspective that success isn’t just about growth, but about balance, purpose, and ultimately becoming a better human. Ian splits his time between Melbourne and Sydney and has been part of SASM since the early days. You might recognise him from one of our Burns in July evenings, where he delivered a rather spectacular recitation of Tam O’ Shanter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Nick Broadley, founder of St Andrew's Society Melbourne, has a great chat with successful business leader, ex-boxer, publican and charity founder Rob Brown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices