The CEO Advantage Podcast

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, host Paul Edginton sits down with Alf Ianniello, Managing Director and CEO of Codan Limited, to explore his progression from engineering into global business. Alf reflects on starting out in electronics engineering, working internationally in manufacturing, and how those early experiences shaped his approach to decision making, discipline, and growth.The conversation follows Alf’s career through British Aerospace and Schefenacker Vision Systems, into a fourteen year tenure at the Detmold Group, before moving into an ASX listed environment at Codan. He explains how global exposure, working across cultures, and managing manufacturing operations at scale informed his approach to acquisitions, executive development, and navigating uncertainty, including the impact of geopolitical events on business performance.In this episode:• Transitioning from engineering into commercial and executive roles• Scaling manufacturing businesses across global markets• Making decisions under uncertainty and external pressure• Managing growth through acquisitions and international expansion• Shifting from operational execution to governance and oversightThis episode is for leaders, founders, and executives who want a grounded understanding of how to grow businesses, manage complexity, and operate effectively in global markets.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit ⁠www.ceoadvantage.com.au⁠.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, host Paul Edginton speaks with Tim Silvers, CEO of the Adelaide Crows, about leadership inside one of Australia’s most visible sporting organisations. Tim reflects on his journey through the sports industry, from early jobs and a childhood shaped by constant change, to leading major AFL clubs and building culture in high pressure environments. The conversation explores how resilience, connection, and honest leadership shape long term success.Tim shares practical insight into managing performance in elite sport, where feedback is constant and standards are reviewed every week. He discusses bringing young players and their families into a club environment, balancing on field and off field expectations, handling difficult decisions such as delistings and restructures, and why trust must be built through clear communication. He also explains how organisations can create belonging, identify rising talent, and stay aligned during periods of major change, including the challenges that followed Covid.In this episode:• Building resilience through change, uncertainty, and early life experiences• Creating belonging for young talent entering high pressure environments• Leading honest conversations about performance and accountability• Rebuilding trust and culture after disruption and organisational change• Managing difficult decisions while maintaining respect and clarityThis episode is for leaders, executives, coaches, and team builders who want practical insight into culture, performance, and leading people through pressure and change.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit www.ceoadvantage.com.auFor leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers conclude their three part conversation with Raymond Spencer, focusing on his leadership philosophy and experience following the sale of Kanbay and his transition into Capgemini. The episode closes out the current season.Raymond reflects on leading within a global organisation after Kanbay was acquired by Capgemini, where he went on to build and lead the Financial Services Global Business Unit. He explains the importance of diversity beyond demographics, highlighting differences in thinking styles, education, and lived experience as critical inputs to better decision making. The conversation explores how alignment begins with a clearly defined purpose, how meetings can be structured through a simple five part framework, and how culture becomes operational through values, behaviours, and clear boundaries. Practical examples include redefining meeting effectiveness, embedding behavioural expectations across teams, and creating accountability through shared understanding rather than top down control.In this episode:Leading through the transition from founder to global business unit leaderDefining diversity through thinking styles, experience, and perspectiveUsing purpose to create alignment and improve decision making across teamsApplying a practical framework to run effective and efficient meetingsTranslating values into behaviours and accountability within organisational cultureThis episode is for leaders and operators who want practical ways to improve alignment, strengthen culture, and lead teams with greater clarity and intent.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit www.ceoadvantage.com.au.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers continue their conversation with Raymond Spencer, exploring how he built and scaled a global business by applying principles developed in the not for profit sector. Raymond shares the early formation of Kanbay, his transition into commercial leadership, and the thinking behind applying culture, values, and teamwork in a profit driven environment. Raymond explains how the business evolved from a small operation placing talent into global companies to a sophisticated organisation delivering software services at scale. He outlines how culture was operationalised through clearly defined values, behaviours, and expectations, and how this became a competitive advantage as the company expanded internationally. The discussion also covers early offshore development in India, co investment with clients, the design of a values aligned workplace, and the deliberate decisions made around salary, reinvestment, and leadership structure. Raymond also shares how the company prepared for public listing years in advance, embedding governance and discipline while protecting culture as the core driver of performance.In this episode:• Building a global business by applying not for profit leadership principles in a commercial setting• Establishing early offshore development models and working with international clients• Turning values into behaviours that shape everyday decisions and culture• Designing organisational systems that reinforce learning, feedback, and accountability• Preparing for public listing while maintaining long term culture and leadership integrityThis episode is for leaders, founders, and executives who want to understand how culture can be built deliberately and scaled without losing clarity, consistency, or performance.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit ⁠www.ceoadvantage.com.au⁠.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers sit down with Raymond Spencer to explore the early life experiences that shaped his approach to leadership, learning, and community. Raymond reflects on growing up on a farm in Clarendon in the Adelaide Hills, the values instilled through family and community involvement, and the unexpected path that led him away from law school and into international community development work. Raymond shares the story of leaving Australia at eighteen with very limited resources to travel to the United States to work with the Institute of Cultural Affairs. He describes the influence of his upbringing, including lessons in responsibility, community service, and ownership that later shaped his leadership philosophy. The conversation explores how early exposure to community development programs in Chicago, teaching preschool, and participating in intensive learning environments helped build the communication, teaching, and facilitation skills he would later apply in business and organisational leadership. In this episode:• Growing up on a farm in the Adelaide Hills and the early lessons of responsibility and community• Leaving law school to pursue community development work through the Institute of Cultural Affairs• Travelling to the United States at eighteen with limited resources and building connections along the way• Teaching preschool and learning facilitation methods in an intensive learning environment in Chicago• How early experiences of community service and ownership shaped Raymond’s leadership philosophyThis episode is for leaders, founders, and professionals interested in how early life experiences shape leadership thinking and how values such as responsibility, community, and learning influence long term impact.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit www.ceoadvantage.com.au.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers sit down with Adriana Brusi to explore the realities of customer service, leadership, and modern marketing. Drawing on her background across hospitality, events, data systems, and digital strategy, Adriana shares how her early work experiences shaped her thinking about independence, accountability, and building businesses that prioritise people. The conversation centres on her belief that customer loyalty is earned through meaningful service and genuine human connection rather than excessive advertising spend.Adriana reflects on her time in the music and nightclub industries, her experience managing teams at a young age, and the lessons she learned about power, behaviour, and responsibility. She discusses the commercial pressures facing restaurants and small businesses, particularly post Covid, and challenges common assumptions about events, branding, and digital marketing. The episode also unpacks the thinking behind Crowds Now, a platform she describes as a double sided marketplace designed to connect everyday people with businesses in a way that amplifies word of mouth and creates what she calls social safety around brands. Through practical examples, including hospitality scenarios and luxury retail case studies, Adriana explains how sampling at scale and community driven advocacy can provide an alternative to traditional advertising models.In this episode:• Early work experiences and how independence shaped Adriana’s leadership philosophy• Lessons from hospitality about service standards, accountability, and customer loyalty• The commercial realities of events and why many function as branding rather than profit drivers• Rethinking digital marketing spend and the limitations of traditional advertising models• The concept behind Crowds Now and how community driven advocacy supports small businessThis episode is for business owners, operators, and leaders who want to rethink how they build loyalty, support their teams, and create sustainable growth through genuine connection rather than noise.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit ⁠www.ceoadvantage.com.au⁠.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers are joined by Stephan Knoll to explore leadership shaped by family enterprise, public service, and lived accountability. Stephan shares his journey from growing up in a multigenerational food manufacturing business to serving as a South Australian government minister, and how those experiences continue to inform his approach to leadership, decision making, and responsibility.The conversation unpacks Stephan’s early immersion in work through Barossa Fine Foods, the realities of earning respect in a blue collar workforce, and the challenges of stepping into senior leadership roles at a young age. Stephan reflects on the contrast between private enterprise and public office, including the pressures of political systems, the impact of scrutiny and investigation on personal wellbeing, and the importance of preserving humanity, relationships, and judgement under stress. He also outlines his post politics portfolio career, including executive chair roles, board leadership, and advising growth stage businesses using first principles thinking.In this episode:• Growing up in a family business and learning leadership through work rather than theory• Earning trust and authority in tough operating environments• The differences between decision making in private enterprise and government• The personal cost of public scrutiny and how to recover perspective and balance• Building a portfolio career focused on impact, governance, and practical leadershipThis episode is for leaders, founders, and executives who want a grounded perspective on responsibility, resilience, and how leadership decisions shape both organisations and lives.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit ⁠www.ceoadvantage.com.au⁠.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers speak with David Bowley, founder of Vinteloper, a boutique wine brand based in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia. David reflects on his journey into winemaking, the early formation of Vinteloper, and how curiosity, creativity, and risk appetite have shaped his leadership approach over time.David discusses the origins of Vinteloper, the thinking behind its name, and the decision to build a brand that deliberately challenges traditional wine industry conventions. He explains how communication, language, packaging, and the tasting room experience are used intentionally to reduce buyer resistance and create stronger customer connection. The conversation also explores how making implicit aspects of culture and strategy explicit became a turning point in leading the business as it matured.In this episode:• Tracing the early development of Vinteloper as a founder led business• Using brand language and experience design to challenge industry norms• Making culture and strategy explicit as a leadership practice• Navigating risk, growth phases, and impostor syndrome• Balancing founder responsibility with long term perspectiveThis episode is for founders and leaders who want a grounded discussion on building culture led businesses while navigating uncertainty, growth, and personal responsibility.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit ⁠www.ceoadvantage.com.au⁠.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers speak with Martin Perelman, co founder and former Chief Executive Officer of SILK Laser Clinics, about his leadership journey and the growth of the business from a small startup into a national operation. Martin shares his early career path, the formation of SILK with fellow founders, and the experiences that shaped his approach to leadership and execution.Martin explains how SILK grew from its first clinic in Adelaide into a multi state business, including navigating founder dynamics, introducing formal governance, working with private equity investors, and ultimately listing the company on the Australian Securities Exchange in 2020. He discusses the realities of scaling a service based business, maintaining consistency across locations, and leading through periods of rapid expansion and organisational change.In this episode:• Founding a business with multiple partners and aligning different founder goals• Introducing a board and governance structures for the first time• Working with private equity investors during a high growth phase• Scaling clinics nationally while maintaining service consistency• Leading through uncertainty as the business evolves in size and complexityThis episode is for founders, chief executives, and senior leaders who want a grounded account of scaling a founder led business, working with investors, and navigating the transition from startup to listed company.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit ⁠www.ceoadvantage.com.au⁠.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

Darcy Ellis, founder of HitFit and son of five-time world champion Lester Ellis, joins us to share the journey from growing up in a boxing family to creating one of Australia’s fastest-growing boxing fitness brands. A former professional boxer himself, Darcy has transformed his passion for the sport into a mission to make boxing accessible, inclusive, and life-changing for people of all ages.In this episode, Darcy opens up about:The lessons he learned from his father about discipline, sacrifice, and resilienceThe struggles of carving out his own identity during his teenage yearsWhy he walked away from a promising professional career to start HitFitHow boxing can build presence, community, and mental strength inside and outside the gymThe importance of bringing governance and vision into small business growthDarcy’s story is as much about mental health and leadership as it is about sport. From creating safe spaces where anyone can experience the transformative power of boxing, to scaling a brand that now spans multiple locations, Darcy shows how courage and community can change lives.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in fitness, entrepreneurship, or personal growth.Subscribe, share, and leave a review to support more conversations like this.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers sit down with Alan Tudorovic to explore his journey growing up inside a family business and eventually helping scale it across construction materials, transport, retail, and property. Alan reflects on his early exposure to work, responsibility, and people skills through his father’s concrete and curbing business in South Australia, and how those experiences shaped his leadership approach.Alan shares the story of his father’s migration from Croatia to Australia, the early years of building a concrete curbing business from scratch, and the gradual expansion into quarries, concrete plants, transport, paving, and retail. He explains how starting at ground level in the yard, learning logistics, sales, and operations firsthand, and taking risks at a young age helped him develop commercial confidence. The conversation also covers the creation of Tudor Pavers, the move into retail and landscaping, early property development decisions, and the practical lessons learned from managing staff, customers, and growth while still in his twenties.In this episode:• Growing up inside a family business and learning leadership through observation and responsibility• Building a vertically integrated construction materials business from curbing to concrete, transport, and retail• Developing sales confidence and people skills through real world experience• Taking calculated risks early, from buying trucks to starting retail and landscaping operations• Lessons from managing staff, customers, and growth at a young ageThis episode is for business owners, family enterprise leaders, and emerging entrepreneurs who want a grounded perspective on building capability, confidence, and long term success through hands on experience.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit ⁠www.ceoadvantage.com.au⁠.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

Paul Edginton and Milly Albers sit down with engineer and entrepreneur Flavia Tata Nardini for a conversation about her lifelong connection to space, her early years in Italy, and the experiences that shaped her approach to learning and leadership. Flavia talks about her fascination with the stars from a young age, her ability to absorb information quickly, and the challenges her family faced through a difficult period that influenced her resilience and drive. She reflects on studying aerospace and space engineering, her early work on propulsion systems and missions in Europe, and the path that eventually brought her to Australia. Flavia expands on the realities of founding and growing a company, sharing the origins of Fleet and the thinking behind its earliest decisions. She explains why focus becomes essential during rapid growth, how she manages the pressure points that come with scaling, and why she believes people progress faster by developing their strengths rather than trying to fix their weaknesses. She also discusses her interest in intuition, human connection and the aspects of potential that science has not yet learned to measure. In this episode:• How early experiences shaped Flavia’s interest in space and engineering• Lessons from her studies, early career and time working in Europe• The beginnings of Fleet and the practical steps behind its creation• Why focus, discipline and resilience matter during business growth• Flavia’s views on talent, intuition and the limits of what science can measureThis episode is for listeners who want a clear and honest look at leadership, personal growth and the mindset needed to build something ambitious in a complex world.We would love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit www.ceoadvantage.com.au.For leadership advice and more content, follow @ceo_advantage on Instagram.Connect with Paul Edginton on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511.

Paul Edginton and Milly Albers sit down with Maria Palumbo, CEO of Junction Australia, to explore her career journey, her early experiences with poverty, and her path from mining and government work into the not for profit sector. Maria shares how those experiences shaped her leadership and her understanding of housing systems, frontline pressures, and the complexity of building homes for vulnerable communities. In this conversation Maria explains why Australia has struggled to keep up with housing demand, how layers of compliance slowed construction, and what she observed during her years in government as processes grew faster than outcomes. She talks through the years of stalled housing programs, the limits faced by community organisations, and the impact of public expectations on government decisions. Maria also reflects on the value of commercial skills in community leadership and how working at every level of an organisation shaped her approach to decision making. In this episode:• Maria’s career path from mining to community housing and the turning points that shaped her purpose• The pressure of navigating poverty as a young parent and how that experience influenced her work• How compliance, regulation and administration slowed Australia’s ability to build housing• The long term effect of stalled housing programs and why the system struggled to meet demand• What Maria learned about leadership, decision making and building capability inside complex systemsThis episode is for leaders and practitioners across government, community services and housing who want a clear, grounded view of how systems actually work on the ground and what it takes to create progress inside pressure filled environments.Don’t forget to subscribe to The CEO Advantage Podcast so you never miss an episode. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, leave a review and share this episode with a fellow leader.We’d love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit our website www.ceoadvantage.com.au.For leadership advice and more content, follow us on Instagram @ceo_advantage.Connect with Paul Edginton on Linked In: / paul-edginton-5047a511

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, host Paul Edginton sits down with Carolyn Curtis, former CEO of The Australian Centre for Social Innovation and a long-time collaborator at The CEO Advantage. They talk openly about leadership in the not for profit and community sectors, what it means to carry the weight of a CEO role, and how identity, wellbeing and purpose shape the experience of leading. The discussion explores how to recognise when it is time to move on, how to let go of a role that defines you, and what comes next after stepping away from the top job.Carolyn shares how her focus has shifted to helping organisations understand culture by looking beneath the surface. She and Paul discuss the difference between compliance and culture, how burnout and psychosocial risk are now key leadership issues, and why trust, connection and communication matter more than ever. Together they reflect on power, decision making and the changing expectations of a modern workforce, offering grounded insight from their own years in leadership.In this episode:• How stepping away from a CEO role can redefine identity and purpose• The difference between compliance and culture in shaping performance• Why burnout and psychosocial risk now sit at the heart of leadership• How power and influence shape behaviour inside organisations• What generational change means for leadership and communicationThis episode is for anyone in leadership, governance or social impact who wants a clear and practical look at the human side of leading people and the realities of working within complex systems.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, host Paul Edginton is joined by Kevin McCarthy to explore the art and science of leading change within organisations. Kevin shares how his early career in healthcare and academia shaped his understanding of leadership and culture, and how his later work with senior teams, Harvard and Stanford scholars, and global organisations deepened his insights into what truly drives transformation.Over the conversation, Kevin unpacks the challenges of leading in complex environments, the role of curiosity and open-mindedness, and why leadership must balance structure with adaptability. Drawing from decades of experience, he discusses practical frameworks for shaping culture, improving dialogue, and sustaining both innovation and core business success.In this episode:• How Kevin’s early career in healthcare education revealed the power of organisational culture• The difference between technical expertise and the social art of leadership• Practical ways leaders can foster curiosity, vulnerability, and open dialogue• Why ambidextrous leadership is key to balancing innovation and stability• The essential role of power, relationships, and reasoning in driving meaningful changeThis episode is for current and aspiring leaders who want a clear, experience-based understanding of how to navigate change, build trust, and lead organisations that keep evolving with purpose.We’d love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit our website www.ceoadvantage.com.au.For leadership advice and more content, follow us on Instagram @ceo_advantage.Connect with Paul Edginton on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511/

Join hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers as they sit down with Matt Stevenson-Dodd, founder of Trust Impact, to unpack how organisations can run with rigour while staying true to purpose. Matt shares how his early youth work and personal journey shaped a commitment to better outcomes for young people, and why live, simple evidence matters more than bulky reports.Through this conversation, Matt explains how joined up data and live dashboards help organisations make faster, smarter decisions, why publishing honest failure builds credibility with funders and communities, and how running a social enterprise with commercial discipline protects mission and impact. He also outlines the origins of Trust Impact, the governance lessons from a YMCA pilot that joined federated databases to create a live impact dashboard, and practical steps leaders can take to move from backward looking reports to real time evidence.In this episode:• The core principles of measurement design and how to decide what truly matters• The YMCA pilot that linked federated databases and the governance lessons it revealed• Building dashboards that support both frontline decision making and strategic oversight• How transparency around success and failure strengthens credibility with funders and staff• Practical steps for leaders to move from static reporting to live evidence through governance, pilots and continual improvementThis episode is for anyone working in charities, social enterprise, policy, or program delivery who wants frameworks that actually move the dial, and practical examples of how to measure impact without getting lost in complexity.

We’re back with Season 3 of The CEO Advantage Podcast - and this season, we’re going deeper. Expect more human, more raw, and more insightful stories from leaders who have walked through challenges and change.Paul Edginton and Milly Albers sit down with Hugo Toovey - Major in the Army, cancer survivor, CEO and founder of 25 Stay Alive. Hugo’s journey is not just about survival, but about redefining leadership through vulnerability, purpose, and connection. He opens up about the power of honesty in leadership, the importance of checking in on others, and how sharing our struggles can transform teams, communities, and lives. Hugo has moved some of the world's biggest leaders from Amazon, Telstra, Santos, Commonwealth Bank and more.Key Leadership Takeaways:- Vulnerability Builds Trust - When leaders admit struggles, they humanise themselves and create stronger, more connected teams.- Purpose Fuels Resilience - Transforming personal adversity into a mission creates authentic influence and lasting impact.- Connection is Leadership - True leadership isn’t about having all the answers - it’s about showing up, listening, and supporting others.Don’t forget to subscribe to The CEO Advantage Podcast so you never miss an episode. If you enjoyed today’s conversation, leave a review and share this episode with a fellow leader.We’d love for you to become part of our growing leadership community. Visit our website www.ceoadvantage.com.au.For leadership advice and more content, follow us on Instagram @ceo_advantage.Connect with Paul Edginton on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-edginton-5047a511/

Join host Paul Edginton as he sits down with Carmel Crouch, long-serving Managing Director of STEPS Group Australia, to unpack a remarkable life devoted to inclusion, leadership, and resilience. Carmel’s story is one of courage, fierce independence, and relentless drive, from managing four supermarkets at 22, to rescuing a struggling organisation and building one of Australia’s most impactful disability services.In this episode:• Growing up with no roadmap for leadership and creating her own• Overcoming systemic discrimination with empathy, tenacity and pragmatism• How Carmel turned personal challenges into a national social enterprise• The vision behind Pathways College and its generational impact on families• Reflections on succession, legacy and the search for the next right leaderCarmel’s insights cut through management theory and land firmly in lived experience. This is a conversation for anyone leading people, building purpose-driven organisations, or wondering how to turn a “no” into a national movement.If this episode resonates, please subscribe, share, and leave a review. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and join the conversation on The CEO Advantage.www.ceoadvantage.com.auFollow us on Instagram @ceo_advantage

Join host Paul Edginton for a candid and insightful conversation with Stephen Mabbs, co-founder and former CEO of Escient, one of Australia's leading independent consulting firms. From his early days in defence science and the Army Reserve to founding and scaling a values-led business, Stephen shares the key lessons and turning points that shaped his path.This episode covers Stephen’s reflections on risk, resilience and leadership, including a powerful story about near burnout and rebuilding from the ground up. He also speaks about the importance of mental health, listening to others, and the experience of completing Harvard’s Advanced Management Program. With clarity and humility, Stephen unpacks the challenges of running a business while staying aligned with your values and looking after your people.In this episode:- Transitioning from military and academic life into entrepreneurship- Lessons from defence engineering and consulting- Founding and growing Permian, and its acquisition by SMS Management & Technology- The impact of Harvard and the confidence it sparked- Why trust, authenticity and listening are core to leadership- How Escient was born and what makes it differentThis conversation is for business owners, executives and emerging leaders who want to grow without losing sight of what matters. If you enjoy the episode, follow The CEO Advantage Podcast for more honest and practical conversations.Don't forget to subscribe, share, and join the conversation on The CEO Advantage.www.ceoadvantage.com.auFollow us on Instagram @ceo_advantage

In this episode, Paul Edginton speaks with Ricky Sydney, an internationally experienced CTO, about the realities behind AI, data strategy, and leading digital transformation without the hype.Key Topics Covered- How CEOs can engage with AI without getting overwhelmed- The evolving roles of CTOs and CIOs in board-level decisions- Why data quality matters more than dashboards- Avoiding costly tech mistakes through people-first thinking⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠Subscribe to CEO Advantage on YouTube⁠⁠Connect with Paul on Linked InRicky brings decades of global leadership experience across the US, Europe, and Australia. With deep expertise in data analytics and systems implementation, he offers rare behind-the-scenes knowledge of both enterprise tech and consulting.Whether you’re a CEO, board member, or tech leader, this episode helps you understand how to approach AI and data with clarity, caution, and confidence.Don't forget to subscribe, share, and join the conversation on The CEO Advantage. ⁠www.ceoadvantage.com.au⁠

Join Paul Edginton and Dan Gregory, co-founder of The Behaviour Report and former Gruen Transfer panelist, as they explore the complex psychology of ambition, self-employment, and personal transformation.This episode dives into Dan's evolution from blue-collar beginnings and early ad agency success to stand-up comedy and behavioural strategy. They unpack what it means to thrive without fitting in, the impact of early success, and how to leverage humour and intellect to build a meaningful career.Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Join host Paul Edginton and co-host Milly Albers as they sit down with Trent Driver, Principal of Scotch College Adelaide. With a 30 year career in education, Trent shares fascinating experiences on his journey into teaching, his leadership style, and what it takes to run a school community of more than 600 staff and staying focused on students.This episode covers• How a uni side gig sparked a lifelong teaching career• Why authentic leadership matters in modern schools• Balancing academic rigour with student wellbeing• Leading with purpose in a complex education system• Advice for passionate teachers feeling stuck or burned outWhether you're an educator, a parent, or a leader in any field, this conversation is packed with insight, real talk, and inspiration.Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who believes in the power of purpose driven leadership.

Join hosts Paul Edginton and Milly Albers as they sit down with Chloe Kempe, Chief Operations Officer of ONCALL SACARE, a family-founded disability services provider. Chloe shares her journey from working in various roles within the family business to leading SACARE through significant growth and innovation.In this episode, we chat about:Chloe's hands-on experience across all levels of the business, from support worker to CEOThe transition from a family-run business to a national organisationUsing creativity to solve problems with initiatives like the Carers Lounge to enhance accessibility and inclusion for allChloe's leadership philosophy, emphasising positive company culture and empowerment for both staff and clientsWhether you're involved in family business, the disability sector, or leadership roles, this conversation offers valuable insights into compassionate leadership and innovative service delivery.Don't forget to subscribe, share, and join the conversation on The CEO Advantage. www.ceoadvantage.com.auFollow us on InstagramSubscribe to CEO Advantage on YouTubeConnect with Paul on Linked In

In this powerful episode, Paul Edginton sits down with Craig Rigney, proud Ngarrindjeri Kaurna man and CEO of KWY Aboriginal Corporation (Kornar Winmil Yunti), to explore the personal, political and professional journey behind one of South Australia’s most respected Aboriginal leaders.Craig opens up about growing up disconnected from culture, navigating racism in the workplace, and what ultimately led him to dedicate his life to eliminating violence against women and children. From calling out injustice with courage, to building KWY from scratch into a statewide force for good, Craig’s story is as humbling as it is inspiring.In this episode:- What sparked Craig’s transformation from tradie to community leader- Early battles with discrimination—and how he learned to respond with dignity- The founding of KWY and the importance of co-designed, culturally safe services- Insights on leadership, reconciliation, and the emotional toll of The Voice referendum- Why real change starts with relationships, not rhetoricThis conversation is a must-listen for anyone working in social change, leadership, or reconciliation.

Join Paul Edginton and Alexandra Senter, Founder and CEO of Sentral Holdings — the media group behind Oh Hello (USA), The Podcast Boss, The Big Smoke Opinion Site and TBS Digital Labs — for a powerful conversation on modern leadership, authentic storytelling and how media can be a force for positive change.

Join Paul Edginton in conversation with Joe Sofra, CEO of ANC, former Managing Director of G4S, and previously CEO Resources & Industrial at Broadspectrum (now Ventia). Joe is an accomplished executive leader with deep expertise across logistics, energy, security, resources, and industrial sectors.In this episode, Joe shares insights on:His leadership journey—from engineering studies at RMIT to earning his PhD from the University of Melbourne.How he empowers teams to innovate and revolutionise last-mile delivery solutions.The importance of building customer-centric cultures that drive lasting value.Strategies for differentiating services and achieving sustainable shareholder returns.Balancing executive leadership with personal values, family, and maintaining wellbeing through disciplined routines.Whether you're an executive leader, aspiring CEO, or interested in transforming logistics and supply chain operations, Joe’s experience offers practical wisdom to drive innovation and build resilient teams.👉 Follow, share, and subscribe for more in-depth conversations with industry leaders.

Paul Edginton and co-host Milly Albers, founder of MILCO, chat with Kelly Jamieson, founder of Edible Blooms and co-founder of Fearless Females, to explore her entrepreneurial journey. From launching a business that hit $1M in its first year to fostering a network that supports and funds women-led startups, Kelly shares her insights on business growth, innovation, and leadership.We discuss:The early days of Edible Blooms and scaling a national brand.How Kelly balances business, board roles, and advocacy for female entrepreneurs.The mission behind Fearless Females and addressing the gender funding gap in startups.Her strategies for maintaining a strong company culture and high employee retention.This episode is packed with inspiration, practical business insights, and leadership wisdom. Don’t forget to subscribe and share!

Join Paul Edginton and Milly Albers as they sit down with Chester Osborn, the inspirational winemaker behind d’Arenberg, to explore his unconventional approach to winemaking, creativity, and business. Chester shares the stories behind his boldest innovations, the artistic vision that led to the creation of The Cube, and how he continues to challenge industry norms.In this episode, we uncover:✅ The fusion of wine, art, and storytelling✅ How risk-taking and creativity drive innovation✅ The role of family legacy in shaping his philosophy✅ Behind-the-scenes insights into d’Arenberg’s most daring creationsWhether you're passionate about wine, creativity, or entrepreneurial thinking, this conversation is filled with unexpected insights and inspiration.🎧 Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Join Paul Edginton and Milly Albers as they sit down with Elizabeth Funk, a trailblazing entrepreneur and impact investor, to discuss the evolution of impact investing, ESG, and social enterprise innovation. As a former Microsoft and Yahoo! executive, Elizabeth shares her journey from shaping the early internet economy to founding Dignity Moves, a nonprofit tackling homelessness through disruptive innovation.In this episode, we explore:✅ The difference between ESG & Impact Investing✅ How microfinance transformed global poverty solutions✅ The challenges of scaling social enterprises & securing investment✅ Leadership lessons from working with tech giants & venture capitalistsElizabeth’s insights offer practical wisdom for entrepreneurs, investors, and changemakers. Whether you're interested in venture capital, philanthropy, or leadership, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode!

Join Paul Edginton and Milly Albers as they reflect on key insights from Season 1 and preview what’s coming in Season 2 of the CEO Advantage Podcast. In this episode, Paul and Milly dive into the four distinct types of CEOs—Founder, Professional, Intergenerational, and Public Sector—and what makes each unique.Through candid discussions, they explore how self-belief, resilience, and leadership styles shape success. They also revisit their favorite moments from past episodes, including lessons from industry leaders, the power of mentorship, and the evolving role of CEOs in today’s fast-changing world.If you’re looking for real-world leadership insights, career-defining moments, and a fresh perspective on what it takes to thrive at the top, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.👉 Subscribe now for Season 2, featuring exciting new guests and deep dives into the CEO mindset.

In this thought-provoking episode, Darren Fleming, renowned author of Mindset Mastery: Do Less. Achieve More, dives into the secrets of harnessing focus and overcoming mental distractions to unlock your full potential. With a career spanning psychology, philosophy, and corporate coaching, Darren has helped major global organisations and leaders master their minds for peak performance. Key topics include: How inner distractions hinder productivity more than external factors. Darren’s unique journey from law and door-to-door sales to global speaker and mindset coach. The power of aligning energy and intentions to achieve effortless results. Practical steps for leaders to foster change and innovation within their teams. Whether you're a leader looking to inspire your team, or someone striving for personal growth, Darren’s insights will leave you motivated and equipped to achieve more with less effort.

In this episode of the CEO Advantage Podcast, we sit down with Todd Roberts, CEO of Credit Union SA, to explore the leadership journey of a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in finance and professional services across Australia and the UK. From his early days as a senior executive at Commonwealth Bank to leading transformational projects and guiding teams to success, Todd shares valuable lessons on leadership, strategic thinking, and professional growth. Key topics include: - Todd’s leadership philosophy and how it evolved over his career. - The critical difference between being an executive and a CEO. - His perspective on building high-performing teams and fostering innovation. - The role of mentorship, respect, and resilience in achieving personal and organisational goals. Whether you're a leader seeking inspiration or an aspiring CEO, this episode is packed with actionable insights and candid reflections. Don’t miss Todd’s stories about pivotal career moments and his vision for the future of Credit Union SA.

In this episode of the SEO Advantage Podcast, we welcome Tammy Barton, the award-winning founder and director of MyBudget, Australia's leading personal budgeting service. Recognised as one of Australia's most influential businesswomen, Tammy shares her journey from managing trust accounts to creating a purpose-driven enterprise that has transformed countless lives. Dive deep into Tammy's inspiring story as she discusses: How her childhood experiences shaped her resilience and leadership skills. The challenges and rewards of founding MyBudget at the age of 22. Her strategies for building a purpose-led business that empowers people to eliminate financial stress. Insights on creating scalable systems, embracing risk, and fostering a thriving company culture. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader, or simply someone seeking financial wellness, Tammy's journey and expertise offer invaluable lessons. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable advice and inspiration.

In this episode, Andrew Nunn shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings, delivering papers and working in his father’s pharmacy alongside his siblings, to becoming one of South Australia’s most successful entrepreneurs. Andrew reflects on the early jobs that taught him the value of hard work, time management, and problem-solving. Discover how these formative experiences shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and paved the way for his ventures into environmental consulting, business leadership, and innovative problem-solving. This candid discussion offers insights into Andrew’s philosophy on seizing opportunities, building strong relationships, and staying adaptable in an ever-changing business landscape. Perfect for anyone looking to learn from a real-world success story, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice.

In this episode of the CEO Advantage Podcast, we sit down with Brent Reilly, former AFL footballer and current footy manager, to explore his incredible journey from a small country town to the elite level of Australian rules football. Brent shares candid insights into the challenges of homesickness, the highs and lows of a 14-year career with the Adelaide Crows, and the life-altering injury that forced him to redefine his purpose. With lessons on resilience, leadership, and the importance of mentorship, Brent’s story is an inspiring blueprint for navigating transitions and staying grounded amidst success.

In this episode of The CEO Advantage Podcast, host Paul Edginton sits down with Liz O'Connell, CEO of Kudos, to explore her remarkable career journey from her first job at Bi-Lo to leading one of Australia’s most innovative social enterprises. Liz shares candid insights about overcoming fear, driving change, and balancing purpose with operational challenges. She discusses her approach to empowering teams, embracing risk, and fostering innovation in the not-for-profit sector. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned executive, Liz’s story will inspire you to rethink how you lead with curiosity and resilience.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Adam Koch, a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience across industries like retail, finance, tourism, technology, and digital fitness. From his early days in the Riverland to managing multinational businesses, Adam shares the challenges and triumphs of leading teams across the globe, including his pivotal roles at Travelex and Sweat. Discover how discipline, persistence, and strategic thinking shaped his path, and hear his insights on balancing a high-flying career with family life. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and adaptability.

Join Paul Edginton for the first CEO Advantage Podcast episode with future co-host Milly Albers. The CEO Advantage Podcast is a a series of conversations with CEOs and Founders - where we discover FOUR kinds of CEO - the Pro, The Founder, The Public Sector and the Intergen. They all have the same title but life is very different for each CEO and each type of CEO. Join us on this fascinating journey into what it takes to become a great CEO. In our first episode we meet Milly Albers - an extraordinary woman - Silicon Valley CEO at 24 years of age, entrepreneur from a young age and now owner of creative design agency MILCO - you'll love the easy way Milly just "starts with yes" and sees where it takes her. Future episodes with Andrew Nunn, Tammy Barton, Adam Koch and so many more in future episodes. We're recording Season 3 now so there is so much more to come - we release every fortnight on Wednesday night. Write to me at [email protected] and let me know what questions you'd like me to ask a CEO. And if there is a particular CEO you want to hear from, or a topic you really want to know about, send me an email and I'll make it happen.. Let us know in the comments what else you would like to hear from our brilliant list of CEO Guests. Join the Leadership Community: Explore CEO Advantage

Welcome to the very first episode of the CEO Advantage Podcast! To kick things off, we’re diving straight into a reel of powerful insights from our remarkable guests. Get a taste of what’s to come as we explore the strategies, challenges, and breakthroughs that define top-tier leadership. This premiere episode is packed with standout moments, offering a snapshot of the compelling stories and advice that will shape every episode. Perfect for those looking to get inspired and stay ahead—tune in and start your journey with us!