The Anti-Failure Podcast

Valentina Coin - aka the Digital Transformation Fairy Godmother - joins Chris on the Anti-Failure Podcast to unpack how small businesses can turn tech chaos into scalable, sustainable growth. From tackling failed software launches to aligning people, processes, and technology, Val shares why embracing failure is a gamechanger for business (and personal) transformation. If you want practical strategies to turn process and technology headaches into business wins, this conversation is your blueprint! Check it out now and start building without the chaos.

From a career that began in the social services of inner-city Manchester to now leading successful organisational mergers and launching Loom Consulting, Alex’s journey is one of intentional pivots, entrepreneurial thinking, and a relentless drive to “do good, better.” Chris and Alex explore how embracing commercial strategies, fostering innovative governance, and harnessing technology can unlock new ways for charities to deliver on their missions while avoiding the pitfalls of risk aversion and stagnation.Alex’s story is a fresh reminder: meaningful change and even commercial success are possible in the purpose-driven sector, if you’re willing to challenge tradition! If you’re building impact in the “for purpose” world, be bold, merge missions, embrace technology, and never forget the human factor. Want to get in touch with Alex or learn more about Loom Consulting? Head to loomconsulting.com.au for all the details.

What happens when the chef at the top of her game realises the recipe for success is destroying her health? Award-winning chef, author, and nutritionist Bridget Foliaki-Davis joins Chris to share how she went from running Sydney’s finest kitchens to overhauling her life, losing 35 kilos, healing from burnout and turning food into medicine.Bridget shares the intense realities of professional kitchens, the battles of being a woman in a male-dominated industry and the surprising business lessons she learned along the way. Her story takes a pivotal turn when burnout and health issues force her to rethink her approach to food, business, and well-being. If you’re ready for a raw, inspiring take on health, business and purpose, this episode serves it straight - no sugar-coating.

In this episode, Chris sits down with David Altamura, founder of Wild Soul Wellness, to unpack a journey from adversity to opportunity. From personal training and swim coaching in Melbourne to launching wellness spaces in Byron Bay, David eventually returned home to lead a fast-growing franchise network. Along the way, he nearly lost it all in a $60,000 construction disaster, a messy legal battle, and the gut punch of starting over with his young family. Chris and David dig into the lessons that helped him bounce back, scale up, and now guide franchisees through the growing pains with real-world tools like hands-on lease support and a community-first business model. If you're building something, starting over, or just need a hit of entrepreneurial honesty, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to keep going. To find out more about David and Wild Soul Wellness, visit www.wildsoulwellness.com.au

What if your biggest failures turned out to be the launchpad for the life you were truly meant to live? In this episode, Chris sits down with Luke McLeod, who went from artillery gunner in the Australian Defence Force to starring on Australia’s highest-rating reality dating show, before finding his real calling: helping people unlock everyday enlightenment.Luke’s story is one of unexpected pivots. He opens up about the moment everything crashed - his business failed, his relationship ended, and his world shrank to a one-bedroom apartment and four blank walls. A chance Netflix documentary inspired a one-way ticket to India, where he learned that true growth doesn’t come from escaping discomfort, but leaning into it.Today, through his app Soul Alive, his book Everyday Enlightenment, and corporate mindfulness sessions, Luke’s mission is to show that meditation isn’t just for monks or wellness gurus, it’s a practical tool to help us stay grounded when life doesn’t go to plan.If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how to pick up the pieces after a setback, or how to find real calm in the middle of the chaos, Luke’s honest insights will remind you that the road to growth is rarely straight but always worth it.Tune in as Chris and Luke explore what it means to embrace failure, stay present, and truly experience the rollercoaster of life, one step, one breath at a time.

What if the setbacks that nearly stopped you in your tracks were actually nudges pushing you toward something bigger? In this inspiring episode of the Anti-Failure Podcast, Chris reconnects with long-time friend Lish Feia, an ABC presenter, science communicator, and co-founder of FixIt Chicks, to peel back the curtain on a career built not despite failure, but because of it.Lish’s journey from making science come alive for kids with the Questacon Science Circus, to helping everyday Australians cut their energy bills, to rebooting her career after a surprise contract non-renewal, shows how change, even when devastating, can become an unexpected launchpad. Chris and Lish explore the value of persistence, the vulnerability of reinvention, and the power of sharing struggles openly to discover that you are in fact, not alone.Whether you’re starting over, facing uncertainty, or just looking for a pep talk from someone who’s been there (and bounced forward), Lish’s story is equal parts honest, relatable, and uplifting.Tune in to hear why finding your way sometimes means getting lost first, and how the path to making a difference is rarely a straight line.

What does it take to build a business that lasts and thrives for over a decade? In this episode of the Anti-Failure Podcast, Chris sits down with Ben Lucas, former professional athlete and co-director of Flow Athletic, as they reflect on 12 years of building one of Sydney’s most recognised fitness communities.Shaped by an upbringing that instilled resilience and a deep work ethic, Ben shares how he has approached both business and life with a relentless drive to challenge himself. Together with his business partner Kate Kendall, Ben has built Flow Athletic into a business that balances excellence with authenticity and community with commercial success. In this conversation, Chris and Ben unpack how staying curious, studying what other industries are doing well and adapting with intention have been key to Flow’s longevity. Ben also reflects on how keeping true to his values, prioritising meaningful impact and fostering a strong team culture have allowed him to lead with clarity, all while staying dedicated to his young family.Whether you are in your early years of business or striving to build something that endures, Ben’s insights on balancing ambition with humility and performance with purpose will leave you with plenty to think about.

What if your biggest failures were actually the keys to your success? In today’s episode, Chris sits down with Brittany Bennett, the founder of Bennett PR—a powerhouse in the health, fitness, and wellness communications space. Brittany’s path is anything but linear: from an early career in the fashion capitals of Europe to making her mark in Australia's PR industry, she shares how setbacks, tough work environments, and even toxic workplaces shaped her approach to business and leadership.We dig into her lessons learned—how adversity built resilience, why boundaries matter, and how letting go of negative influences led to growth both personally and professionally. Brittany also opens up about navigating business pivots and the biggest mistakes she sees brands make in PR. Whether you're navigating entrepreneurship or simply seeking motivation to turn obstacles into opportunities, this episode offers invaluable wisdom that'll resonate long after it ends. For more info on Brittanny and her services at Bennett PR, check out:https://bennettpr.com.au/

Nicolas Bivero, co-founder of Penbrothers, sits down with Chris for an enlightening conversation that bridges the worlds of martial arts and business. Discover how Nicolas' martial arts background has instilled in him a profound sense of perseverance, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of learning—qualities that have been instrumental in navigating business challenges.Together, Chris and Nicolas delve into their shared experiences of building a remote team-building service in the Philippines. They discuss pivotal decisions that have shaped their company culture and underscore the importance of curiosity and humility as cornerstones of successful entrepreneurship. Whether you're grappling with your own business challenges or seeking motivation from a seasoned fighter in the entrepreneurial arena, tune in to explore innovative remote work strategies, gain cultural perspectives, and learn how to transform setbacks into stepping stones for growth.

In this episode of the Anti-Failure Podcast, Chris sits down with Carly Martin, founder of the consultancy group Venture Bench, to unearth the intricate dance between legal frameworks and business creativity. As a former Amazon executive, Carly shares her journey of leaving the corporate giant to help Australian businesses scale globally. Tune in to explore how smart risk-taking, curiosity, and a strategic mindset can unlock growth and innovation. Carly's insights into balancing legal protections with entrepreneurial ambition will resonate with anyone looking to make informed, bold moves. Prepare for a deep dive into the world of venture capital, corporate governance, and the art of building an agile advisory board. Whether you're a start-up enthusiast or a seasoned business professional, this episode offers invaluable takeaways for navigating the complex business landscape.

From much-loved Mayor to NSW Member of Parliament, Michael shares his unconventional career journey into politics. Underscored by a desire for real change and an ability to get shit done, Mike is not just another Poli. In this episode of the Anti-Failure Podcast, Chris and Mike discuss the importance of vision, resilience, and collaborative compromise to deliver projects that benefit the greater good. His story reminds us that success isn't always tied to a formal education. It's about saying yes to opportunities, asking the right questions, and giving it your all.

Welcome back to the Anti-Failure Podcast for 2025! Founder of Sydney-based Landscape Construction Group - Outdoor Residential - Cam McDonald joins Chris as they explore Cam's journey from job loss to building a flourishing business. Tune in for insights on building a reputable brand, maintaining healthy cash flow, and fostering positive workplace culture. Whether you're eager to start your own business or looking for reassurance on your own entrepreneurial journey, Cam's story will surely steer you down the right path.

How do you get the best from your team? How do you get the best out of yourself? Cyrus is a people and business performance leader, advising organisations on how to align their team to their overall strategy - a career he fell into after leaving an engineering degree to work in recruitment.Driven by a love of people, he wanted to combine this with his passion for probing into what makes businesses tick. This episode of the Anti-Failure Podcast brings an enlightening discussion about decision-making and risk, chasing the right kind of revenue, addressing underperformance, small business leadership and remote working efficiency. With loads of insights from someone who's spent plenty of time in the business trenches, you'll certainly garner new perspectives on how to run your business and your team.For more from Cyrus, check out his links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyrusdcruz/https://peoplegigglobal.com/

Wendy Laureti and husband, Frank, bought Saddler's Creek Winery back in 2015. Within four months of taking over the estate, they were hit with once in a century floods, followed by ongoing droughts and the state’s worst bushfire season on record in 2019/20. Then Covid hits. And immediately after what feels like an eternity of pandemic lockdowns, they're assaulted with more flooding and bushfires. Enduring more in just a few short years than most business owners face in a lifetime, the Lauretis managed to dig deep and carry on.In this latest episode of The Anti-Failure Podcast, Chris and Wendy dive into transparency, authenticity and making decisions with your heart; empowering you team to make the best decisions for you business; accepting life's adventures; building a 'treasure chest'; and reflecting on your achievements and the journey that got you there.Be sure to check out Saddler's Creek Wines and Cafe Lighting & Living online and across socials:https://saddlerscreek.com/https://www.instagram.com/saddlerscreekwines/https://www.cafelightingandliving.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/cafelightingandliving

After missing out on a spot in medical school, Jovin found her passion in pharmacy helping people navigate their day-to-day health issues. Overcoming financial hurdles and professional challenges, she relocated to Australia from her native home in the Philippines. She now owns two major retail pharmacies on the NSW South Coast.In this episode of the Anti-Failure Podcast, Jovin shares her transformative journey of risk-taking, dealing with setbacks, and ultimately discovering a sense of fulfillment that aligned her personal values with her professional life.Along the way, Jovin found purpose not just in her work but in the lifestyle she embraced, combining her love for surfing with a balanced family life and rewarding career.Tune in for some great insights on how to back yourself in and craft the lifestyle you want, while maintaining your integrity.

Tom Hobbs is a former actor turned sustainability entrepreneur. Marrying his passion for surfing and environmental impact to co-create Spooked Kooks, an eco-surf brand utilising recycled consumer plastics to produce quality surfboards. Since launching in 2017, Tom and his co-founder have contributed to removing over 9.3 tonnes of plastic waste from the environment.In this episode of the Anti-Failure Podcast, Tom opens up about his journey from the glitzy world of acting to the gritty realities of construction and entrepreneurship. We cover off why it's important to be nimble and being a jack-of-all-trades isn't necessarily a bad thing; the mental shift from failure to growth; being open to new experiences and opportunities; and pursuing a passion that has a lasting impact.If you want to learn more about Spooked Kooks and their sustainability processes, you can check them out here - https://www.spookedkooks.com

Brock's entrepreneurial journey started early - much earlier than most - when he begun flipping properties while still at uni. It was then a chance encounter with Tim Ferriss, of 4-Hour Work Week fame, while travelling through South America that spurred on his first business venture. Since being bitten by the entrepreneur bug, Brock has built and been a part of multiple successful ventures in the health, nutrition and FMCG arena. Including Revivol, NuZest, Beauty Food, and Chief. With a passion for clean eating, sustainability and building brands with legacy, Brock's journey to this point is anything but conventional. Join the discussion as he shares his insights into dealing with business catastrophes, making the right decisions for your business and brand, how to align profitability with environmental impact, balancing family and work commitments, and using outsourcing effectively. Whether you're a self-starter looking for inspiration, a business owner trying to incorporate your own passions, or just a healthy lifestyle enthusiast, this is a must-listen episode of The Anti-Failure Podcast. So, strap yourself in and hit play!Make sure to check out Chief's range of fantastic healthy snacks at www.wearechief.com

What does it take to rebrand failure into a stepping stone for success? In this episode of the Anti-Failure Podcast, Chris is joined by Grant 'Truck' Lawrie, sharing his remarkable start-up journey through antiques, event management, hospitality and skincare. Together, they explore how Grant turned financial setbacks and market challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. You’ll learn about the vital role of flexibility, the importance of passion in business, and how to stay resilient when the odds are against you. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that promises to ignite your courage and curiosity!If you want to connect with Grant or learn more about his skincare range, check out the links below:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantlawrie/ Skin Alive Skincare - https://www.skinalive.co.nz/

Repeat with me 'I have failed, but I am NOT a failure!'. The distinction is an important one to make if you want to have success in any of life's pursuits. Today's guest on the Anti-Failure Podcast is Mike Campbell Man Coach, sharing his knowledge and wisdom from over a decade of helping Aussie men become Everyday Legends. Mike started a personal training career in his early 20s. Over time this evolved into a broader coaching business that focused on all areas of personal development, not just fitness. He is now a coach and mentor, author, public speaker, husband, father and friend. But not necessarily in that order. Chris and Mike discuss the value of failures if handled with a level of emotional maturity, how to get out of your own way, the mental roadblocks to entrepreneurship, and creating sustainable behaviour change. Listened to the episode and still want more from Coach Mike? Check him out at the links below:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikecampbellmc/Website - https://mikecampbell.com.au/Everyday Legends Academy - https://mikecampbell.com.au/everyday-legends-coaching/Book: Unleash Your Alpha - https://www.amazon.com.au/Unleash-Your-Alpha-operate-gentleman-ebook/dp/B00JFOK06G

Ryan Gilbank was helping a mate broker the sale of his business when he realised it was such a great deal that he bought it himself. In this episode of the Anti-Failure Podcast, Chris and Ryan discuss the evolution from employee to business owner and journey to becoming the leader that your team needs you to be. Ryan also shares his passion for giving and how it's been one of the biggest factors for driving growth, and the importance of creating legacy over simply chasing more revenue. If you've been second-guessing taking that entrepreneur leap, Ryan's story will provide inspiration and some helpful tools to take your first step.