Founders and Funders Australia

This week on Founders & Funders Australia, Ray sits down with filmmaker and multidisciplinary creative Dale Crawford, founder of Moon Room Films.Dale grew up in Melbourne surrounded by early computers, robotics, and animation thanks to two programmer parents. From childhood inventions to studying fine arts, screenwriting, and philosophy simultaneously, his early life set the foundation for a career that spans fashion design, independent film, and deep historical storytelling.Ray and Dale explore the extraordinary Chinese-Australian history that inspired Dale’s decades-long research project, including secret societies on the Bendigo goldfields, clan wars, and the origins of Australia’s oldest Imperial Dragon. Dale shares why he closed a fashion label invited to New York Fashion Week to pursue filmmaking, and how acting and modelling became tools to study film sets from the inside and reinvest into his creative work.They also dive into the reality of producing independent films: building teams, sustaining multi-year projects, navigating distribution, and shaping meaningful work in a fast-content world. The discussion moves from TikTok attention loops to the “paradox of purpose,” and why creative people must learn to consume less and make more.If you’re a founder, creative, or someone navigating long-term meaningful work, this episode will resonate deeply.In this episode, Dale shares: Growing up with early computers, robots, and stop-motion animation Childhood plans to invent an electromagnet motor and build a “perma jungle” Studying fine arts, screenwriting, and philosophy across three universities Building a made-to-measure fashion label later invited to New York Fashion Week Closing the label to focus on filmmaking 16+ years researching Chinese secret societies in Australia The story behind the Imperial Dragon and the Bendigo goldfields How a stolen script pushed him to start his own production company Using acting and modelling gigs to learn filmmaking and fund projects The 10-year journey from writing to releasing his feature film Lilith How rapid media consumption affects our emotional processing Why creators need to bring “nutritious work” into an oversaturated world The paradox of purpose — why achieving goals can erase meaning Why aspiring filmmakers must start small, iterate, and learn by doingWhere to watch Lilith Australia: Vimeo On Demand North America: FandangoConnect with Dale Instagram: @moonroomfilms Film company: Moon Room Films

This week on Founders and Funders Australia, Ray sits down with sculptor and model Chi, whose life has taken her from childhood in Vietnam to exhibiting at the NGV and building a new life in Australia.Chi shares how her parents, raised during the Vietnam War with almost no resources, fought to give their daughters an international education. She talks about teaching herself English through Disney Channel, moving to Australia to study sculpture, and what it means to carry her family’s history, privilege and sacrifice into her creative practice.In the second half of the conversation, Chi opens up about surviving an abusive relationship while on a partner visa, navigating court, and finding a legal path to stay in Australia without her abuser. She explains how trauma shut down her creativity, how modeling and community helped her rebuild, and why her work now centres on resilience, the human body and the full spectrum of the human experience.Chi also talks about: Getting into a “flow state” with sculpture and why process matters more than prestige Showing work at NGV and integrating sculpture, light and space Her upcoming human-form homewares brand, including an incense holder cast from a human ear The immigrant mindset, hustle culture and why no one is truly “self-made” Practical advice for young artists on building skills, using uni resources and the power of networkingIf you’re an immigrant, creative, or anyone rebuilding after a hard season, this one will land deep.Follow Chi on Instagram: @lc_trinh

When Jude moved from Singapore to Melbourne as a teenager, fashion wasn’t the obvious path. After studying fine arts, serving two years in Singapore’s military, and starting over, he found his creative calling — designing clothes that reflect personality, playfulness, and purpose.In this episode, Jude shares how he built Design by Jude from scratch — beginning with a single sewing machine, small design markets, and a couple of small loans — to growing into a permanent Fitzroy store and recognition on the Melbourne Fashion Festival main stage.We talk about: How discipline from military life shaped his creative process The reality of starting a fashion label without investors — and growing slowly, on purpose Finding and understanding your first customers at design markets Keeping production local and ethical in Australia, using small runs and deadstock fabrics Why starting small can be your greatest advantageDesign by Jude is proudly made in Melbourne using locally produced and ethically sourced materials. If you’re in town, visit the store at 252 Johnston Street, Fitzroy — or explore the latest collections online at designbyjude.com. You can also find Jude on Instagram and Facebook @designbyjude.Tune in to hear how passion, persistence, and purpose built one of Melbourne’s most beloved independent fashion labels.

In this episode of Founders and Funders Australia, Ray sits down with Louis — an actor, model, and photographer whose creative journey spans continents and industries. From moving to Australia as a child and navigating cultural shifts, to signing with one of the top acting agencies in the country and walking the runway at Melbourne Fashion Week, Louis shares a story of resilience, belonging, and artistic growth.Louis opens up about his early experiences in drama school, overcoming cultural barriers, finding his creative voice, and breaking into the acting and modeling industries. He discusses the pivotal moment he signed with Morrissey Agency, how photography became a way to reclaim his image, and why self-acceptance was the biggest transformation of all.We also dive into:​How to secure your first acting agent — even as a teen​Why vulnerability is essential for acting and modeling​How TFP shoots helped Louis build his modeling portfolio​The reality behind agency representation and runway work​Why your mirror image isn’t the real you — and how to train your perceptionThis episode is perfect for aspiring actors, models, and creatives who want an honest look at breaking into the industry while staying true to yourself.Follow Louis’ work:Instagram: @le.studio.photographyWebsite: lestudiophotography.com.auFollow Ray: @rayzworld

In this episode of Founders and Funders, host Ray Yee speaks with Karen, founder of The Creative Warehouse. Based in Australia, Karen shares her journey of building a creative business from the ground up, offering insights into entrepreneurship, resilience, and how creativity can fuel business growth.What you'll learn in this episode:How Karen transformed her creative passion into a thriving business.The challenges of entrepreneurship in Australia’s creative industry.Tips for founders balancing creativity and business strategy.Why community and collaboration matter for entrepreneurs.If you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative founder, or simply curious about the Australian startup landscape, this episode is packed with lessons and inspiration.Connect with Karen at The Creative Warehouse and on Instagram.Hosted by Ray Yee

In this episode of Founders and Funders Australia, host Ray Yee sits down with Mitch, the driving force behind The Essential, a supplement brand dedicated to transparency and quality. Mitch shares his journey from aspiring athlete to successful entrepreneur, discussing the challenges of navigating the supplement industry and the importance of integrity in product development. Tune in to learn about the evolution of The Essential, the role of education in consumer choices, and Mitch's insights on balancing business growth with personal values. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.Find Mitch:Melbourne Fitness and Performance: Follow them on Instagram for updates and more information about their gym activities.The Essential AU: You can find their supplement brand on Instagram or visit their website to explore their products, including whey protein in chocolate and vanilla flavors, and creatine. They also offer sample packs for those interested in trying their products.This episode is brought to you by Riverside, the platform for studio-quality remote recordings. Use code Ray15 for 15% off your first subscription.⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/xLR1Wx

In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Justin Rooney, who left a successful career in investment banking to co-found Flame Security. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of developing cutting-edge fire safety solutions and the impact of their products on global markets.Show Notes:Introduction to Justin Rooney and Flame Security The transition from banking to fire safety innovation Key challenges in developing fire retardant products Strategic partnerships and market expansion Insights into the future of fire safety technology Advice for aspiring entrepreneursHashtags: #FireSafety #Innovation #Entrepreneurship #FlameSecurityContact Justin Rooney: Visit flamesecurity.com.au or firecoat.au for more information. Follow Flame Security on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTubeThis episode is brought to you by Riverside, the platform for studio-quality remote recordings. Use code Ray15 for 15% off your first subscription.https://riverside.sjv.io/xLR1Wx

Episode 18 – Cashflow Without Chaos: The Fintech Transforming B2B PaymentsIn this episode of Founders and Funders, I sit down with Ray Wang, co-founder and CEO of Luca Plus, to explore his journey from accountant at Nike to fintech founder reshaping B2B payments.We talk about how Luca Plus is giving small businesses access to flexible supplier credit, the inspiration behind its name, and Ray's commitment to integrity, transparency, and building a capital-efficient future.What we cover: Why short-term cashflow gaps are crushing small businesses—and how Luca Plus is solving it Ray’s journey from Beijing to Melbourne, and from Nike to fintech How his accounting background shaped the company’s credit decisioning framework The importance of trust and product validation over perfection How Stone & Chalk, government grants, and partner networks enabled Luca’s early growthGuest:Ray Wang is the co-founder and CEO of Luca Plus. With deep roots in accounting and real experience supporting small business owners, he brings a uniquely grounded perspective to solving financial pain points through technology.Links & Resources: Luca Plus Website Ray Wang on LinkedIn Principles by Ray Dal_

Join us on Founders and Funders Australia as we explore the future of education with Dhruv, the innovative founder of Huddled. In this episode, Dhruv reveals how Huddled’s AI-driven platform—described as "Slack for educators and students"—is transforming the learning experience. By enhancing student engagement, empowering teachers, and fostering inclusive, secure spaces, Huddled is redefining education. From his early days as a teenage STEM prodigy—winning science awards and representing Australia at the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Association—to leading a global EdTech venture now impacting educational providers in five countries, Dhruv’s story inspires entrepreneurs, educators, and tech lovers alike. Learn how Huddled addresses today’s education hurdles, such as chaotic group assignments and administrative burdens, with advanced AI solutions that bring efficiency and calm to institutions.Want to dive deeper? Connect with Huddled on LinkedIn to follow their journey, or visit Huddled’s website to see how they’re shaping the future of learning.

In this episode of Founders and Funders Australia, host Ray explores the cutting-edge intersection of AI and law with Daniel and Jordan, the founders of LawMe, a platform that’s transforming legal work with AI-powered virtual workers. From their university days to launching a tool that automates drafting, compliance, and research, they share their inspiring startup journey, the pivot from legal research to workflow automation, and the challenges of finding product-market fit in a risk-averse industry.Discover how LawMe empowers lawyers to focus on practicing law by automating routine tasks, and hear the founders’ vision for a future where AI reshapes legal pricing and efficiency. Packed with insights on B2B sales, branding, and building trust through referrals, this episode is a must-listen for legal professionals, tech enthusiasts, and aspiring entrepreneurs.Key Topics:How Daniel (IT & Economics) and Jordan (Actuarial Science & Law) met and started LawMeThe pivot from a legal research tool to AI-driven workflow automationOvercoming market education challenges in legal techThe power of branding and referrals in B2B salesWhat’s next for LawMe: deep research and browser automation featuresWant to learn more? Visit lawme.ai or connect with the team on LinkedIn to explore how LawMe is revolutionizing the legal industry.

What would make you walk away from a stable career? For Jaryd Krause, it was the realization that the life he had built as a plumber wasn’t the one he wanted.So, he left it all behind. No business experience. No roadmap. Just a desire to create financial freedom. Today, Jaryd runs one of the world’s largest communities for buying and growing online businesses, helping others escape the 9-to-5 grind.In this episode, we talk about: The moment he knew he had to leave his plumbing career behind How he bought his first online business and avoided scams The biggest misconceptions about passive income and digital assets How he built a business without burning out (after learning the hard way) How podcasting and content marketing helped him scale Why he prioritizes surfing over work and what that says about success The struggles most entrepreneurs don’t talk about His advice for growing a podcast and making it profitable His future plans, from helping athletes and artists to scaling his impactThis isn’t just a conversation about business—it’s about designing a life that works for you.For more from Jaryd, visit BuyingOnlineBusinesses.com or connect with him on LinkedIn.Listen now.#Entrepreneurship #OnlineBusiness #PassiveIncome #Podcasting #FinancialFreedom #DigitalAssets #WorkLifeBalance #Startups #PersonalGrowth

In this episode of Founders and Funders, I chat with Jay Pottenger from EQ Minds. We explore his journey from a successful career in banking to building a thriving mental health and mindfulness business. Jay shares how EQ Minds grew from a deeply personal experience into a company helping thousands improve their mental health and performance worldwide.We cover:How Jay transitioned from banking to EQ MindsPractical strategies for building resilience and managing stressThe future of workplace wellbeingWhat it takes to start and scale a business in the mental health spaceFollow EQ Minds on Instagram for more tools and tips on living a happier, healthier life.

In this episode of Founders and Funders Australia, I sit down with Helena Turpin, co-founder of GoFigr, an Australian career tech platform helping businesses retain and upskill talent. Helena shares her journey from working in HR at Adecco and Randstad to launching her own startup through the Antler accelerator program. We dive into the challenges of building a SaaS business, securing early customers, and leveraging AI to drive workforce transformation. Helena also discusses the importance of internal talent mobility, the future of AI in HR, and lessons learned from growing a global company. Whether you’re a startup founder, HR leader, or tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights on navigating entrepreneurship, funding, and scaling a business. Show Notes: 🔗 Learn more about GoFigr: GoFigr.ai🔗 Connect with Helena Turpin on LinkedIn: Helena Turpin LinkedIn🔗 Subscribe to Helena’s Substack for Future of Work insights: GoFigr Substack🎙️ Hosted by Ray Yee

James McClure is a Partner at Antler Australia, a global early-stage VC firm. With a background in tech leadership roles at Google, Airbnb, and other innovative companies, James brings a wealth of experience in scaling startups, building teams, and navigating the venture capital landscape. Key topics: Breaking barriers in venture capital to support founders globally. James’ Journey: From corporate tech to venture capital. Startup Challenges: Overcoming co-founder compatibility, funding hurdles, and idea validation Antler’s Program: 10-week bootcamp for founders focused on building, validating, and funding their ideas. Case Studies: Highlights of startups nurtured by Antler Links and Resources: Learn more about Antler: Connect with Antler on

In this episode, Ray sits down with Tick, CEO and founder of NUVC, to explore her inspiring entrepreneurial journey. Tick shares how her early ventures, a challenging property career, and personal setbacks shaped her resilience and determination. Discover how she pivoted into AI, building tools for investors and redefining deal-making in the venture capital world. Join us for insights on overcoming obstacles, creating impact, and lessons on building a scalable business. Linkedin: Tick Jiang Sponsor: This episode is proudly sponsored by Riverside —the ultimate platform for recording studio-quality podcasts and videos remotely. Exclusive Offer for Our Listeners:Start your podcasting journey with a special discount! Use the code Ray15 at checkout to receive 15% off your first subscription. ⁠Click here to get started⁠.

In this episode of Founders and Funders, Ray sits down with Alina, the director of Coolibah Downs Private Estate, a premier wedding venue in the Gold Coast hinterland. Alina shares her inspiring journey from helping out in her family's business as a teenager to taking the reins of a struggling venue and transforming it into a thriving destination. Alina discusses the unique challenges of running a wedding venue, her experiences in the corporate world, and how she applied lessons from her background in mergers and acquisitions to streamline operations and enhance customer experience. From rebranding the business to exploring new markets like intimate weddings and corporate events, Alina's strategic approach serves as a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs in the events industry. Topics Covered in This Episode: ​Alina's early life influences growing up in Brisbane and her family's immigrant background. ​The origin story of Coolibah Downs and how Alina's family acquired the property. ​Alina’s corporate career in mergers and acquisitions and how it shaped her business acumen. ​The challenges of rebranding an existing business while maintaining its essence. ​Adapting to market changes and identifying new revenue streams during COVID-19. ​Key lessons in digital marketing, team management, and the importance of outsourcing. ​Advice for entrepreneurs looking to enter the events and wedding venue space. Guest Bio:Alina is the director of Coolibah Downs Private Estate, one of the Gold Coast's most sought-after wedding destinations. With a background in law and commerce, Alina has transformed Coolibah Downs into a premium venue known for its bespoke services and picturesque location. Her journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences. Connect with Coolibah Downs: ​Instagram: @coolibahdownsprivateestate Listen Now:Tune in to learn how Alina combined creativity, strategy, and hard work to create a thriving wedding destination. Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs, event planners, and anyone passionate about the wedding industry. Sponsor:This episode is proudly sponsored by Riverside.fm—the ultimate platform for recording studio-quality podcasts and videos remotely. Exclusive Offer for Our Listeners:Start your podcasting journey with a special discount! Use the code Ray15 at checkout to receive 15% off your first subscription. ⁠Click here to get started⁠.

In this exciting episode of Founders and Funders, Ray speaks with Dan Copsey, a seasoned entrepreneur, philanthropist, and early-stage startup investor. Dan’s journey spans from his roots in Melbourne’s suburbs to building multiple successful businesses and investing in the next generation of startups. Discover: How Dan turned a landscaping career into a springboard for entrepreneurship. The story behind his viral clothing brand and its successful exit. Lessons learned from navigating the challenges of a transport business. His strategies for scaling digital marketing agencies and investing in tech, hospitality, and innovative startups. Insights into his approach to mentoring founders and spotting opportunities in early-stage companies. Dan’s story will inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and founders looking to scale and secure investments. 💡 Key Takeaways: How resilience and mentorship shape entrepreneurial success. Why the right partnerships and team culture are key to growth. Emerging opportunities in professional services and the tech startup ecosystem. Show Notes Guest: Dan Copsey Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: Sponsor:This episode is proudly sponsored by Riverside.fm—the ultimate platform for recording studio-quality podcasts and videos remotely. Exclusive Offer for Our Listeners:Start your podcasting journey with a special discount! Use the code Ray15 at checkout to receive 15% off your first subscription. Click here to get started. Episode Highlights: Dan’s journey from landscaping to entrepreneurship and investment. The rise and sale of a viral clothing brand. Rebounding from business failures with hard-earned lessons. Scaling digital marketing agencies and supporting startups. Dan’s approach to investing in early-stage startups and what he looks for in founders. Opportunities in tech, professional services, and innovative industries.

Join us in this episode of Founders and Funders as we speak with Amanda Siqueira, co-founder and CEO of VAPAR, a trailblazing company transforming the way we manage infrastructure. Amanda shares her inspiring journey from civil engineering to entrepreneurship, creating a groundbreaking AI-powered platform that automates pipe condition assessments for municipalities worldwide. We explore: Amanda’s transition from engineering to founding VAPAR and her passion for solving real-world infrastructure problems. How VAPAR uses AI to streamline pipe inspections, saving cities time and resources. The evolution of their MVP, funding journey through the Startmate accelerator, and partnerships with investors like Autodesk. Overcoming challenges like introducing AI to risk-averse industries and navigating red tape. Practical advice for aspiring founders, including starting with the "why" and leveraging today’s accessible AI tools. Discover how VAPAR is improving infrastructure management globally, from Australia and New Zealand to the U.K. and U.S., and why Amanda believes consistency and passion are key to entrepreneurial success. Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Riverside, our favorite for recording studio-quality podcasts and videos remotely. Whether you're interviewing founders or funders, Riverside makes it seamless. Exclusive Offer for Our Listeners:Use the code Ray15 for 15% off your first subscription!👉 Click here to get started

In this episode, the host welcomes Susan, also known as 'The Laundry Lady,' who shares her inspiring journey from a corporate career in international marketing and business development to founding and scaling her own business, The Laundry Lady. She discusses the challenges and tipping points that led her to start her laundry service, balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, and her experiences on Shark Tank Australia. Susan also delves into the technological advancements and systems implemented in scaling her business and future plans for further expansion and investment. Key insights include leveraging off-the-shelf solutions, the importance of flexibility, and the value of staying true to core business values. Sponsored by Riverside 15% discount for our listeners using discount code:Ray15 at checkout! https://creators.riverside.fm/RayYee Connect with Susan linkedin.com/in/susan-toft-b855ab41

In this episode of Founders and Funders, Ray Yee sits down with Lisa, the founder of The Saucy Wench, to talk about her transition from a career in architecture to becoming a successful sauce maker. Lisa shares her inspiring story, from a stormy night where she made her first batch of chili oil to scaling her business and eventually landing her products in Woolworths. They discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, scaling a food business, and the importance of staying true to authentic flavors. If you're interested in food entrepreneurship or love a great story about following your passion, this episode is for you! Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by Riverside, our favorite for recording studio-quality podcasts and videos remotely. Whether you're interviewing founders or funders, Riverside makes it seamless. Exclusive Offer for Our Listeners:Use the code Ray15 for 15% off your first subscription!👉 ⁠⁠Click here to get started