The Spin Out

After 15 years navigating the high-pressure corporate world of logistics and project management, Rachael traded the boardroom for business ownership. Seeking a career that offered both fulfillment and "life by design," she joined The Laundry Lady in August 2024.In this episode, we dive into Rachael’s journey of leveraging corporate discipline to build a thriving local business while reclaiming the work-life balance she always wanted. From managing a bustling customer base in Melbourne to her heartwarming volunteering as a puppy carer, Rachael’s story is a masterclass in transition, patience, and finding joy in the daily spin.Book online with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/ Join the Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/ 

After 15 years navigating the high-pressure corporate world of logistics and project management, Rachael traded the boardroom for business ownership. Seeking a career that offered both fulfillment and "life by design," she joined The Laundry Lady in August 2024.In this episode, we dive into Rachael’s journey of leveraging corporate discipline to build a thriving local business while reclaiming the work-life balance she always wanted. From managing a bustling customer base in Melbourne to her heartwarming volunteering as a puppy carer, Rachael’s story is a masterclass in transition, patience, and finding joy in the daily spin.Book online with The Laundry Lady: ⁠https://thelaundrylady.com.au/⁠ Join the Team: ⁠https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/⁠ 

In 2014, two best friends in Brisbane put two washing machines and two dryers in the back of a van. What started as a simple project to help those experiencing homelessness has since scaled into Orange Sky, a global movement providing thousands of people with clean clothes and genuine human connection.In this episode of The Spin Out, host Susan Toft sits down with co-founder Nic Marchesi. Nic shares his journey from working behind the lens at the ABC and Seven Network to becoming the 2016 Young Australian of the Year. We dive into:The “calling” moment: when a project with a van became a lifelong mission.Why we shouldn't overcomplicate innovation.How six orange chairs became the cornerstone of a culture built on conversation and dignity.Leadership lessons: from the "big rooms" of the Obama Foundation to the reality of the laundry floor.Join us for an inspiring conversation about how a basic concept, executed with heart, can change the world.Learn more about Orange Sky: https://orangesky.org.au/The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/

In this episode of The Spin Out, Susan sits down with Lucie, an Adelaide-based Laundry Partner who has mastered the art of the "life-by-design" pivot. After returning to her hometown to care for her elderly father while raising young children, Lucie discovered that the key to professional fulfillment wasn't climbing a corporate ladder, but building a business that worked for her family.Lucie shares the honest reality of starting a service-based business from home, from the initial "trial and error" phase to becoming a fully booked partner with a dedicated, recurring customer base. We dive into the logistics of scaling, the importance of investing in the right tools, and why "pajama days" are a non-negotiable part of her mental health strategy.

In this episode of The Spin Out, Susan sits down with fellow Shark Tank Australia participant Thien Trinh, the visionary founder behind STRYDA. Thien’s journey is a lot about resilience, from arriving in Australia as a refugee to becoming a leading podiatrist and revolutionary product designer.Susan and Thien dive deep into their shared "raw and unscripted" experiences in the Tank, the terrifying reality of pitching to the Sharks, and the adrenaline-fueled aftermath of their episodes airing. Thien shares the clinical insights that led him to bridge the gap between human anatomy and ecological preservation by using regenerative cork for his high-performance insoles.Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or someone looking to understand the "biomechanics of success," this episode offers a candid look at the grit required to disrupt an industry and the heart behind building a brand that truly helps people.Learn more about STRYDA: https://stryda.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stryda_movement/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strydamovement Book online with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/ Join the Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/ 

In this episode of The Spin Out, host Susan sits down with Laetitia Andrac, the CEO and co-founder of Understanding Zoe, an AI-powered platform providing neuro-affirming support for families raising neurodivergent children. Laetitia shares her deeply personal journey from being a high-level strategy consultant at firms like Telstra and Deloitte to founding a startup born out of the challenges of raising her own neurodivergent daughters.We explore how Understanding Zoe uses AI to translate complex clinical assessments into actionable, easy-to-understand strategies for parents and teachers. Laetitia also shares her insights on the fundraising journey for female founders, the power of building "wealth for impact," and the daily rituals that keep her grounded while scaling a global business.In this episode, you’ll learn:- How Understanding Zoe is bridge-building between clinicians, parents, and educators.- The reality of the "invisible load" and why measuring it is the first step toward change.- Laetitia’s advice on joining accelerators like Techstars at the right stage of your journey.- Strategies for female and neurodivergent founders navigating the venture capital landscape.- The importance of shifting from a "deficit" to a "strength-based" model of neurodiversity.Learn more about Understanding Zoe: www.understandingzoe.com - LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/laetitiaandrac/ - LinkedIn (company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/understandingzoe/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/understanding.zoe/ Book online with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/ Join the Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/

Join us as we chat with one of our very own Laundry Lads, Adam, who runs a successful business in the Brisbane Redlands area of Queensland, Australia.Adam shares his incredible journey from working 16 years in the corporate Quality Assurance sector to becoming a full-time, self-employed Laundry Lad in just two months. Learn how he decided to make the switch after running a coffee van and realising the strong, consistent demand for laundry services.In this episode, you'll hear about:How he balances his full-time schedule with being a father to his two daughters.The transition from a desk job to the freedom of managing his own time and client base.Why laundry services, unlike his previous ventures, are seen as a necessity rather than a luxury.The business's focus on ironing services in the Redlands and servicing commercial clients like hairdressers and residential care facilities.His decision to "go all in" with new, semi-commercial equipment and wrapping his car in the brand's iconic pink design to maximise visibility.Adam's story is a great example of how you can build a flexible, full-time business that meets a genuine need in the market while achieving a better work-life balance.Book online with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/ Join the Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/ 

Join the Laundry Lady Marketing Team for a festive, action-packed episode as they discuss life and work in December!Susan kicks off by sharing a recap of their recent three-week business trip to Canada (Toronto and Vancouver), covering the National Women's Show, the exciting surge of 500+ applications for the Laundry Ladies and Lads team, and the shock of transitioning from frigid -7°C Canadian cold back to 30°C Queensland heat.Then, the team dives into the holiday spirit:Festive Campaigns: Hear about the current Christmas giveaways in Australia and New Zealand, offering $150 gift vouchers, and working with influencers.Global Christmas Traditions: Marketing team members Ellie (from France) and Ana (from Brazil) share what Christmas is like in their home countries, including the French emphasis on Christmas Eve dinner, the Brazilian love for sweet desserts and the funny debate over raisins in food, and how they are adapting to the hot Australian summer holidays.Get ready for some holiday cheer, work updates, and a whole lot of laundry talk!Learn more about The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/Join the Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/Laundry Lady Canada: https://laundrylady.ca/

Owen Parry, founder of the Melbourne-based fashion-tech startup Hello Tailr, is revolutionising clothing repairs and alterations. In this episode, Owen shares the personal frustration, specifically needing to get newly purchased pants shortened, that inspired him to build a platform that bridges the gap between skilled makers and consumers.Discover how Hello Tailr integrates technology, logistics, and strategic social enterprise partnerships to enable brands to offer seamless repair services, extending garment life, and reducing waste.We dive into the challenge of transitioning from an initial idea to running a company, the biggest non-financial metric they track, and how he ensures their social mission is never overshadowed by the push for tech growth. Plus, Owen reflects on the lessons he learned from his previous work experience as a developer and personal life as a dad.Hello Tailr: https://hellotailr.com/Hello Tailr and The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/clothing-alterations-repairs-hello-tailr/ 

Join host Susan and Laundry Lady Marketing Manager Jayne for a special episode recorded live from Toronto, Canada! Hear all about their transatlantic journey from Australia, which included a 13-hour flight to Vancouver, brand photoshoots and an awards night where Susan won Woman in Tech (first place) and Entrepreneur of the Year (second place).They discuss the whirlwind of activities in Vancouver, including attending the Women Changing the World Awards, exhibiting at the National Women's Show, and the exciting reaction to The Laundry Lady service in the Canadian market.Discover their observations on Canadian culture, from walking on the right side of the road, to the difference between a "beanie" and a "toque", and their excitement over the abundant maple trees and the start of the holiday season, with Christmas markets and pumpkins everywhere.The conversation also highlights the challenges of juggling work, business expansion, and family commitments back home, including Jayne's experience of editing her book while on the road.In this episode, you'll hear about:The reality of a two-week trip, including jet lag and a demanding schedule of events.The overwhelming interest in The Laundry Lady from potential contractors and customers in Canada.Funny cultural differences.The excitement of attending a Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game and exploring Niagara Falls.Learn more:Laundry Lady Australia: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/ Laundry Lady Canada: https://laundrylady.ca/ 

What does it take to find work-life balance and increase your income on your own terms?Susan sits down with Debbie to talk about building a flexible lifestyle with The Laundry Lady that allows her to balance personal priorities, like caring for her elderly mum, with her professional goals. Debbie shares how her Laundry Lady "side hustle" has complemented her work as a "lollipop lady" in Melbourne and provided the income growth she was looking for.A dedicated contractor since 2023, Debbie discusses how she became Contractor of the Month, the importance of flexibility, and her experience servicing a mix of residential customers and businesses. Her story is packed with heart, community spirit, and practical advice on making a side business thrive.In this conversation, you’ll discover:How The Laundry Lady provides the flexibility needed to balance life, work, and caring for family.Debbie's strategy for successfully running a side hustle alongside another job.The reality of a flexible work day, including pickups, deliveries, and the importance of working from home.Insights into growing a customer base, from residential clients to securing business accounts.Why community and connection, like being highly active in the Laundry Lady Facebook group and helping newbies, are essential for long-term success.Advice for anyone considering becoming a Laundry Lady/Lad.Perfect for anyone who’s ever dreamed about finding more freedom in their schedule, creating a business that works around the life they love, or for those looking to effectively boost their income with a flexible side hustle.Book online with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/ Join the Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/ 

In this inspiring episode of The Spin Out, Susan sits down with Rachel Toyer, a solo mum, storyteller, and content creator who has built an incredible online community with honesty and heart. Rachel shares her journey of navigating single parenthood with her son, Arlo, from life on the road in a van to creating a home filled with love and resilience.Rachel, whose story has been featured on Mamamia, shares invaluable insights on what it truly means to build a life on your own terms and lead with authenticity. Now, her platform empowers other women to step into content creation with confidence, proving that courage and authenticity are at the heart of every good story.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to cultivate strong leadership skills, build supportive networks, and thrive as a woman in business. You’ll discover:The power of authenticity in building a resilient life and online community.Rachel’s journey from a solo mum on the road to a celebrated content creator.Strategies for building an incredible online community by sharing your story with heart.How to step into content creation with confidence and courage.Follow Rachel:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachel.toyer/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092398542465 Book online with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/ Join the Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/ 

In this inspiring episode, Susan sits down with her good friend, Jeanette Allom-Hill, a powerhouse leader, Telstra Business Women’s Award winner, and CEO of the Lionhearted Foundation. Jeanette shares her invaluable insights on what it truly means to lead with authenticity, foster vibrant communities, and embrace flexibility in the dynamic world of business.Jeanette opens up about overcoming vulnerability in the workplace, the power of "flow not force," and how to navigate the challenges of self-judgment. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to cultivate strong leadership skills, build supportive networks, and thrive as a woman in business.In this conversation, you’ll discover:The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in effective leadershipStrategies for building and nurturing a strong business communityHow embracing flexibility can lead to greater success and personal well-beingInsights into navigating self-judgment and finding your "flow"Jeanette’s journey and lessons learned as a prominent woman in businessPerfect for aspiring and established women in business, leaders seeking authentic connection, and anyone looking to build a thriving, flexible enterprise.Follow Jeanette, and learn more about her journey and business:Lionhearted Foundation website: https://www.lionheartedfoundation.com/Jeanette’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lionhearted_luxury_leisureFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaysDreamsAreMadeOfLionhearted Foundation’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lionheartedfoundationLionhearted Latest Magazine: https://simplebooklet.com/lionheartedmagazineissue5The Laundry LadyBook online today with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/Join our Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/

What does it take to leave behind the familiar and embrace a new life overseas? Susan sits down with Rachel Davenport, who shares her journey from Australia to Bali and how she built a flexible lifestyle that allows both personal and professional growth.Rachel talks about the importance of adaptability when living abroad, balancing her love for fitness and pickleball with running a business, and the lessons she’s learned from her diverse career background in the pet grooming and fitness industries.In this conversation, you’ll discover:What it’s really like to move from Australia to Bali and adapt to a new way of livingHow flexibility opens up space for growth in both business and lifeThe daily practices that keep Rachel balanced and energisedInsights from her career journey across fitness and the pet grooming industryWhy prioritising time for yourself is essential for long-term successPerfect for anyone who’s ever dreamed about living abroad, finding more freedom in their schedule, or creating a business that works around the life they love.Book online today with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/Join our Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/

Ready to transform your career and step into your authentic power? Susan talks with Vinisha Rathod, entrepreneur and author of "The Briefcase Effect: Your Personal Brand Action Plan," about making brave life changes and building careers that truly align with who you are.With over 15 years of global leadership experience, Vinisha shares insights on leveraging technology for growth and the entrepreneurial journey that led her to help others discover their unique edge.You'll explore:The courage it takes to pivot your career and why it's worth the riskThe "Briefcase Effect" - why your essence isn't something you earn, it's something you ownHow to uncover and articulate your natural giftsBuilding a career that supports the life you actually wantWhy being "too much" might be your superpowerVinisha's approach focuses on deep alignment between your values, choices, and career. Perfect for ambitious professionals feeling burnt out, anyone afraid to be truly seen, or quiet leaders ready to step up and stop playing small.Book online today with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/ Join our Team :https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/ You can get Vinisha’s book here: https://www.amazon.com.au/Briefcase-Effect-Personal-Curious-Courageous-ebook/dp/B0FDN5GJSN 

What does it really mean to design a life that works for you? Susan sits down with Kym McManus from The Laundry Lady Recruitment Team, who has built an extraordinary life on her own terms.Kym shares her unique journey of balancing a successful recruitment career while homeschooling her children and living in Bali. She reveals the real challenges and rewards of choosing flexibility over traditional career paths.In this conversation, you'll discover:How to find true flexibility without sacrificing professional growthThe realities of homeschooling while maintaining a jobWhat it's like to build a life abroad while staying connected to your careerPractical strategies for creating boundaries that protect your family timeHow to redefine success on your own termsPerfect for anyone feeling trapped by conventional expectations and ready to explore what life could look like when you prioritise freedom, family, and fulfillment.Book online today with The Laundry Lady: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/ Join our Team: https://thelaundrylady.com.au/join-the-team/

Something new is spinning your way!The Spin Out podcast is coming soon 🎙️Real stories. Real people. Real inspiration.Stay tuned 👀