In this episode, Gavin sits down with Adrian Bo, one of the most respected names in Australian real estate. With a career spanning over three decades, Adrian shares how he went from stockbroking dreams to commercial leasing, then became a sales titan and now a sought-after coach and auctioneer. Adrian opens up about the lessons he learned from John McGrath, the power of discipline, and what it takes to stay relevant in a constantly evolving market. From building elite teams to surviving career adversity, this is a masterclass in adaptability, mindset, and longevity. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – 05:00Adrian’s early career, from stockbroker ambition to falling into real estate. 05:00 – 10:00Commercial leasing, key contacts, and getting poached by McGrath. 10:00 – 15:00Switching to residential sales and dominating the Eastern Suburbs. 15:00 – 20:00Sales meetings, tough love, and lessons from John McGrath. 20:00 – 25:00From 4 to 100 sales a year, scaling with assistants and structure. 25:00 – 30:00Why he left selling, embraced coaching, and the moment that changed his path. 30:00 – 35:00Mindset, stoicism, and navigating career lows with grace. 35:00 – 39:18The difference between lifestyle and growth agents, and what separates the top 20 percent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gavin sits down with Vivien Yap, One of Australia’s top female real estate agents, to unpack how she built a powerhouse career after two decades as a pharmacist. Vivian shares the mindset, routines, and lessons that fuel her success. She opens up about her transition into real estate, the support systems that keep her grounded, and what drives her now as a leader and mentor. This episode is full of practical insights for anyone aiming to lead with impact and longevity. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – 10:00How pharmacy led to real estate, early lessons, and first listings. 10:00 – 15:00Record-breaking sales and building momentum. 15:00 – 20:00Discipline, family support, and long-term vision. 20:00 – 25:00Vivian’s 5 tips for new agents, from energy to abundance. 25:00 – 30:00Growing a team and leaving a legacy. 30:00 – 35:00Daily routines, staying motivated, and balance. 35:00 – 41:00Handling rejection and keeping perspective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Gavin sits down with Marcus Chiminello, one of Australia's most respected names in real estate, known for dominating Melbourne’s luxury market and redefining what prestige selling looks like. Marcus opens up about his journey from apprentice carpenter to record-breaking agent, his decision to specialise in high-end properties, and the personal discipline it takes to stay at the top. They discuss everything from mentorship, routines, and database curation, to how Marcus balances a high-stakes career with family life and board-level leadership at Marshall White. This is a masterclass in elite performance, strategy, and staying grounded. Whether you're in real estate or business, Marcus shares playbook-level insights on how to build a brand with integrity, attract the right clients, and lead a fulfilling career. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – 05:00:From apprentice to agent – Marcus’ early career pivot and what drew him to real estate. 05:00 – 10:00:Learning the ropes – Working with top mentors, enduring tough lessons, and switching firms. 10:00 – 15:00:Back to PA – Why Marcus took a step back to learn a new market and how it paid off long-term. 15:00 – 20:00:Database strategy & brand positioning – The mindset shift from generalist to prestige specialist. 20:00 – 25:00:Building a high-performance team – From solo to scale: how Marcus built and structured his elite unit. 25:00 – 30:00:Board responsibilities & balance – Managing 350+ staff, family, and staying deal-focused. 30:00 – 35:00:Mental resilience – The voice in your head, burnout, and how Marcus stays in peak state. 35:00 – 37:00:Fitness, focus, and legacy – What drives Marcus now, and how he leads by example for his family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gavin sits down with Oliver Lavers and Zac Rabin from TRG, two of the most successful real estate agents in the Ray White network. Known for their high performance, consistency, and drive, these top operators open up about what it takes to succeed in a challenging property market. From personal routines and relentless discipline to vendor management and leadership, Zac and Oliver share hard-earned lessons and strategies that have kept them at the top of their game. They talk about mentorship, the importance of being in the trenches with your team, and how to reignite passion when the going gets tough. Whether you're in real estate or any performance-driven industry, this episode is a playbook on how to show up, stay consistent, and lead with values. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – 05:00: Introduction – Gavin sets the stage for a deep dive with Zac and Oliver on sales performance in today’s real estate climate. 05:00 – 10:00: The no-BS approach – Zac explains his honest method with vendors, managing energy, and choosing who to work with. 10:00 – 15:00: Oliver’s daily routine and the power of consistency – why he treats each day like he’s starting from scratch. 15:00 – 20:00: Discipline, drive, and the ‘off switch’ – the relentless mindset behind top performers. 20:00 – 25:00: Team leadership and mentorship – how Zac and Oliver have built teams that thrive. 25:00 – 27:23: Advice for new and struggling agents – back-to-basics strategies and how to reset when you’ve lost your spark.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gavin sits down with Sunny Gill, a retail mogul who has helped shape the fashion landscape in Southeast Asia. As the second generation in his family’s retail empire, Sunny shares invaluable insights on business, resilience, and the lessons learned from his father, who famously brought Zara to Southeast Asia. From selling shoes in his father’s stores as a teenager to securing the rights for global brands like H&M, Sunny’s journey is a masterclass in hard work, persistence, and strategic vision. He opens up about navigating the pressures of a family business, overcoming entitlement, and the transformative power of discipline. Episode Breakdown: [00:00 - 05:00] Introduction to Sunny Gill – his background, family business legacy, and global retail influence. [05:00 - 10:00] From selling shoes as a teenager to securing global fashion brands – the early years and work ethic. [10:00 - 15:00] The role of discipline and resilience – how a simple gym bet transformed Sunny’s mindset and career. [15:00 - 20:00] The business of fashion – from Zara to H&M and beyond, securing the rights to major brands in Southeast Asia. [20:00 - 25:00] The art of deal-making – strategies for securing international brands and why relationships matter. [25:00 - 30:00] Expansion and future plans – Sunny’s vision for retail growth in Southeast Asia, including new brand acquisitions. [30:00 - 35:00] The power of relationships – how networking and persistence opened doors for massive deals. [35:00 - 40:00] Personal growth and family – lessons from his father, navigating entitlement, and building something bigger than himself. [40:00 - 43:32] Final thoughts – staying grounded, cutting out negativity, and the importance of consistency in business and life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nick and Jonathan join Gavin to share how they built Wingman, a company that’s transforming real estate operations with offshore admin solutions. Starting in property management, Jonathan grew his business from 60 to 3,000 properties, leveraging virtual assistants in the Philippines. Together, Nick and Jonathan now lead a team of 900 staff supporting 700 real estate agencies, streamlining operations to maximize productivity. They discuss the real estate industry's misconceptions about outsourcing, the power of offshore support, and how Wingman helps agencies scale. From overcoming skepticism to building trust with top-performing agents, they explain why delegation is the key to growth. Episode Breakdown: [0:00 - 5:00] The origin of Wingman – Jonathan’s journey from a 23-year-old property manager to leading a high-growth business through offshore admin support. [5:00 - 10:00] From 60 to 300 properties: How outsourcing admin tasks enabled rapid business growth. [10:00 - 15:00] The role of offshore teams in real estate – how Wingman helps agencies free up time for high-value work. [15:00 - 20:00] The common myths about outsourcing: Why it’s not just about cutting costs but driving business expansion. [20:00 - 25:00] Behind-the-scenes of Wingman’s operations – training, quality control, and ensuring offshore teams integrate seamlessly. [25:00 - 30:00] How Wingman’s support allows real estate professionals to focus on revenue-generating activities. [30:00 - 35:00] The biggest lessons from scaling a business – leadership, efficiency, and the power of delegation. [35:00 - 40:00] What’s next for Wingman: Future expansion, the Profit Summit event, and their vision for helping more agencies grow.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Maz joins Gavin to share insights from her career in entertainment and her transition into conference speaking. Having worked on The X Factor, Celebrity Apprentice, Big Brother UK & Australia, and many more, Maz now specializes in personal brand differentiation and behavior change. She discusses the importance of storytelling, reading an audience, and standing out in competitive industries. Maz explains how she helps people craft a memorable personal brand, shift audience behavior, and create a lasting impact. She shares real-world examples from her experience working with CEOs, real estate professionals, and lawyers, emphasizing the power of perception, branding, and differentiation. Episode Breakdown: [0:00 - 5:00] Maz’s unexpected career shift from TV production to public speaking – learning to pivot and find new opportunities. [5:00 - 10:00] How Maz transitioned from producing TV shows to helping professionals build strong personal brands. [10:00 - 15:00] The power of first impressions – why people judge you in seconds and how to make it work in your favor. [15:00 - 20:00] Memorable branding: The story of a lawyer who changed their pitch from "I’m a partner at a law firm" to "I keep CEOs out of jail". [20:00 - 25:00] Behavioral change in business – how Maz ensures her audience takes action, rather than just listening. [25:00 - 30:00] The importance of being different, not vanilla – why standing out is critical in real estate, sales, and leadership. [30:00 - 35:00] How Maz reads a room, works with industry leaders, and adapts her message for different audiences. [35:00 - 40:00] The power of storytelling, theatricality, and engagement in professional branding. [40:00 - 45:00] Why “Hope is not a strategy” in sales, real estate, and business – changing minds through behavior-based influence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gavin sits down with Jordan Navybox: Managing Director QLD, Cohen Handler. Jordan has been recognised as the highest-grossing buyer’s agent in QLD four times. He shares his journey into real estate and discusses the importance of product knowledge, experience, and customer service in representing high-end clients. Jordan explains how he has grown his business over the past 10 years, starting with smaller deals and gradually working his way up to multi-million dollar transactions. He emphasises the value a skilled buyer's agent can provide and shares insights on the mindset and strategies he uses to continue expanding his business. [0:00 - 5:00] Shares accidental entry into real estate and discovering the role of a buyer's agent. [5:00 - 10:00] Discusses building a successful buyer's agency in Brisbane, partnering with industry leader Simon Cohen. [10:00 - 15:00] Explains growing the business over 10 years, from smaller deals to representing clients in the multi-million dollar range. [15:00 - 20:00] Shares the story of a recent $23 million deal, highlighting the value a skilled buyer's agent can provide. [20:00 - 25:00] Discusses strategies used to build market knowledge and familiarity with the Brisbane market. [25:00 - 30:00] Talks about balancing a high-performing career with maintaining a healthy personal life and relationships. [30:00 - 35:00] Shares insights on what makes a great real estate agent, emphasising communication and client service. [35:00 - 40:00] Discusses the biggest challenge as a buyer's agent - finding the right properties for clients in a limited market. [40:00 - 45:00] Reflects on lessons learned from long-time business partner Simon Cohen, and how his expertise has shaped the approach. [45:00 - 50:00] Offers advice for entrepreneurs and professionals looking to build a successful real estate business, highlighting the importance of relationships and exceptional client experiences.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Gavin sits down with Anthony Bell, the CEO of Bell Partners, one of Australia's top accounting firms. Hear how Anthony's determination and entrepreneurial spirit led him to break away from his father's accounting practice and start his own successful firm at just 27 years old. Learn about his unique approach to building a thriving business, including his focus on advisory services, strategic partnerships, and cultivating a strong company culture. Anthony also discusses his passion for property investment, experiences navigating industry challenges, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and real estate professionals. [0:00 - 5:00] Anthony's background and early career, including his decision to leave his father's accounting firm to start his own practice. [5:00 - 10:00] How Anthony built Bell Partners into a leading accounting firm, focusing on advisory services and strategic partnerships. [10:00 - 15:00] Anthony's experiences as a property investor and his thoughts on the Australian real estate market. [15:00 - 20:00] Strategies Anthony has used to retain top talent and foster a strong company culture at Bell Partners. [20:00 - 25:00] Advice from Anthony on overcoming industry challenges and thriving as an entrepreneur in the professional services sector.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Gavin sits down with Daniel O'Brien, the owner of X-Commercial. Hear how Daniel's persistence, strategic mindset, and innovative approach to social media have fueled X-Commercial's success. Learn from his experiences navigating the challenges of commercial property management and his plans for a nationwide franchise expansion. Daniel also delves into his thoughts on balancing work and family, fostering loyalty within his team, and what it takes to thrive in the competitive world of commercial real estate. [0:00 - 5:00] Introduction to Daniel O'Brien and his transition from residential to commercial real estate. [5:00 - 10:00] Daniel’s journey to success in commercial real estate, including the hurdles he overcame early on. [10:00 - 15:00] The founding of X-Commercial, its growth, and Daniel’s unique approach to team loyalty and mentorship. [15:00 - 20:00] The role of social media in Daniel’s strategy and the surprising success he’s found with it. [20:00 - 25:00] Daniel’s long-term vision for X-Commercial, including franchise expansion and his outlook on Sydney’s property market.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, we welcome Peter Freedman, founder of RØDE, a leading brand specialising in microphones, headphones, audio interfaces, and software. Their state-of-the-art facilities house over $500 million in machinery and an international team of 800+. Their products are exported to 119 countries worldwide. From his humble beginnings as a young Swedish immigrant to Australia, Peter shares his story of overcoming adversity, developing a relentless work ethic, and building a global audio empire. Get inspired by Peter's unwavering passion for his craft, his innovative approach to marketing and sales, and his steadfast commitment to customer service and core values. 0:00 - 5:00] Introduction to Peter Freedman, founder of RØDE Microphones, and his impressive journey from moving to Australia as a child to building a global audio empire. [5:00 - 15:00] Peter's early life struggles, including learning English, facing bullying, and developing a driven mindset to prove his worth. [15:00 - 25:00] The founding of RØDE Microphones and how a chance opportunity with a microphone led to the company's meteoric rise. [25:00 - 35:00] Overcoming the 1989 financial crash, Peter's resilience, and the importance of customer service in rebuilding the business. [35:00 - 45:00] Peter's unique blend of technical expertise, marketing prowess, and passion for his work, which has been the key to RØDE's success. [45:00 - 55:00] The role of core values, transparency, and a strong company culture in driving RØDE's growth and Peter's plans for the future. [55:00 - 60:00] Peter's reflections on his journey, the lessons learned, and his commitment to making a positive impact in the world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Gavin sits down with Marnie, a top 20 female real estate agent in Australia with over 25 years of experience and 2,000+ properties sold. Marnie provides a fascinating glimpse into the early days of her career, when she learned from industry greats and described the invaluable experience of absorbing their knowledge and techniques. Get inspired by Marnie's drive, work ethic, and willingness to take on new challenges, even while on maternity leave. Her story demonstrates the power of seizing opportunities, maintaining a positive attitude, and continuously learning from those around you. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode Gavin sits down with Matt Kemeny, a top-performing associate in Gavin's office. Matt shares his remarkable journey from working at the front desk of a gym to becoming a highly successful real estate agent, despite having no prior experience. Listeners will learn about Matt's resilience, discipline, and the valuable lessons he's learned from his mentor, Gavin, and the experienced agents around him. This episode offers insights into the ups and downs of the real estate industry and the keys to achieving success in this competitive field.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gavin sits down with renowned Australian architect Nick Tobias. Nick shares the story of how he started his practice at just 22 years old and built it into one of the country's leading architecture firms known for bespoke luxury homes. He discusses the process of designing high-end homes from concept to construction, getting projects approved, working with clients and more. Nick also provides valuable insights into the costs involved in building a new home today. An insightful look into the world of premium residential architecture and development from one of the best in the business. 0:00-5:00 discusses starting his practice young and his journey to becoming an architect 5:00-10:00 talks about his early career experiences working for other architects and learning on building sites 10:00-15:00 explains how he developed his style and brand over the years through his work and marketing 15:00-20:00 provides insights on the client selection process and lessons learned from difficult clients 20:00-25:00 outlines the typical design and approval process for a new high-end home 25:00-30:00 gives costs breakdowns for building a new home, including construction costs per sqm 30:00-35:00 discusses factors that influence construction timelines and costs, pushing design boundaries 35:00-40:00 provides more details on calculating total project costs, timelines, and furniture/interiors budgets 40:00-45:00 shares some of his most memorable projects and favourite styles to work with 45:00-end offers advice for those looking to enter the field and discusses qualities needed for success See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Gavin interviews real estate powerhouse Michael Kollosche about his incredible career journey. Michael shares how he got his start in real estate over 25 years ago and discusses his early success in becoming the #1 agent at Ray White, the reason for his 5-year break from the industry and how a certain client eventually convinced him to return. 0:14-0:28 - Starting a real estate career at 18 with Michael Kollosche0:28-1:23 - Why Michael took a 5-year break from real estate1:23-2:26 - Michael shares some of the keys to his success2:26-end - Michael's business growth while maintaining work/life balanceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Astrid Joarder shares her inspiring career journey from events sales to becoming a high-performing agent in Sydney. She discusses navigating the challenges of a male-dominated industry and her strategies for excellent client service. Plus you will get insight into her daily routine, goals, and how she manages a successful career with relationships and self-care. 0:00-5:00 - Astrid's journey into real estate.5:00-10:00 - Her early career experiences and challenges connecting with clients. 10:00-15:00 - Finding success 15:00-20:00 - Navigating auction challenges and maintaining trust.20:00-25:00 - Her daily routine and priorities for self-care. 25:00-29:00 - Views on gender imbalanceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gavin sits down with Jason Boon to discuss his journey from falling into real estate to becoming one of Australia's top agents. Jason shares stories from his early career working as an assistant, the lessons he learned along the way, and the unique approach he took to build his business and brand. 0:00-5:00 - Jason's start in real estate and early career5:00-10:00 - Lessons from his time as John McGraw's assistant 10:00-15:00 - His approach to dominating Potts Point and Elizabeth Bay15:00-20:00 - Personal growth and shifts in mindset 20:00-25:00 - Transitioning to marketing himself over chasing leads25:00-30:00 - A memorable client experience with contrasting personalities30:00-35:00 - Building his team through loyalty over many years 35:00-40:00 - Balancing business and family as he got olderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gavin sits down with Zac Rabin to discuss his path from a struggling start in real estate to becoming one the top writing agents and known as the off-market sales specialist at TRG for luxury property. Zach shares the sacrifices and routines he implemented that took his business to the next level and his advice for up-and-coming agents. 0:00-5:00 - Introduction, Zac’s background and early real estate career 5:00-10:00 - The impact of joining TRG and changes Zac made to his business10:00-15:00 - Zac’s daily routine, habits and what drives his motivation15:00-20:00 - Building his team at TRG and plans for the future20:00-25:00 - What Zac finds most challenging and enjoyable about real estate25:00-30:00 - Zac’s advice for up-and-coming agents 30:00-35:00 - Zac’s strengths and attributes as an agent35:00-40:00 - Zac’s commitment to be a top performer nationallySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Thinking Outside the Box, Gavin Rubinstein interviews his longtime friend Adrian Oddi about his unconventional path to becoming one of Australia's top real estate agents. Adrian fell into real estate by chance after his dreams of becoming a police officer didn't work out, and he started as a part-time receptionist just trying to get his foot in the door. Hear how through hard work and determination, he was able to sign his first client within 6 months and transition to sales, his strategies for consistently closing over 250 deals in just 2-3 years, and how he got his big break meeting the legendary John McGrath.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oliver returns as the first person to appear on the podcast twice, and for good reason, recently taking home the Ray White NSW/ACT Top City Salesperson title. He shares his insights on what got him there, and discusses the importance of returning every call, doing what you say you'll do, and putting your name out there as much as possible through marketing. He also talks about how focusing too much on other agents' numbers gave him anxiety and how he now prioritises being the best version of himself. Learn Oliver's strategies for success and momentum building in real estate sales.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.