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Veteran Business Community Podcast
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© Peter Liston 2022
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There are many lessons business can learn from the military and your host Pete Liston is going to share exactly what he learnt in the Australian Army that has allowed him to create and build multiple 7 figure businesses. Pete will be joined by guests who have also transitioned from military to entrepreneurship and are keen to share their stories.
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🎙 New Episode Drop! S02E34 | From infantry to accounting: what you need from a relationship with your financial advisor What happens when an Infantry soldier trades the battlefield for the balance sheet?In this episode, Jesse Gray shares his journey from serving with 8/9 RAR in Timor and Afghanistan to building his own accounting firm. After being medically discharged, Jesse turned to study and eventually launched his own practice, where he’s built a reputation for detail, trust, and going beyond the “copy-and-paste” approach too common in accounting.We dive into:Jesse’s path from Army life to entrepreneurshipHow veterans’ tax and pension issues have evolved over the last decadeWhy thoroughness can save clients thousands (and why shortcuts cost them)What makes a financial advisor truly worth having in your cornerWhether you’re a veteran, a business owner, or just someone who wants a better relationship with your financial advisor, Jesse’s story will shift the way you think about money and trust.👉 Learn more about Jesse: https://www.bbstax.com.au/ 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranEntrepreneur #FromInfantryToAccounting #FinancialAdvice #VeteranBusiness #TaxMatters #AccountingDoneRight #MilitaryToBusiness #VeteranStories
🎙 New Episode Drop! S02E33 | Alok 'Doc' Patel - From Harvard Business School to Funding Asymmetrical military capabilities (with a stint in the Army and Navy along the way).From serving in both the Army and Navy to graduating Harvard Business School, Alok ‘Doc’ Patel has built a career at the intersection of national service, technology, and strategy.As founder of Azcende and now Azymmetric, Alok is advancing deep-tech adoption to boost defense readiness and resilience. He’s also the founder of the National Security Association of Australia, highlighting veterans’ impact and the importance of national security.In this episode, Pete and Alok explore:Why asymmetrical capabilities are critical for Australia’s defenseHow AI, autonomy, and deep tech are reshaping readinessThe lessons Alok brought from military service into leadership and innovation🔗 Connect with Alok Patel: 🌐 https://www.azymmetric.com/ 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #DefenseInnovation #NationalSecurity #VeteranEntrepreneur #DeepTech #AIForDefense #LeadershipInAction
🎙 New Episode Drop! S02E32 | Harry Moffit - Gunslinger, philosopher, author, punk rocker. One man's contribution to the human revolutionHow does someone go from nearly 30 years in the SAS—11 deployments, almost 1,000 days in combat—to becoming a psychologist, author, musician, and one of Australia’s leading voices on human performance?In this episode, Pete is joined by Anthony ‘Harry’ Moffit: veteran, psychologist, strategist, author of Eleven Bats and The Fourth Pillar, and founder of Stotan Group. Harry shares what it means to live with purpose beyond the uniform, why transition is less about loss and more about returning to the village, and how the lessons of service can become assets for life, not burdens.Together, they unpack:Harry’s journey from SAS Team Commander to psychologist and business leaderWhy he rejects the narrative of veterans “losing” identity, tribe, or purpose after leaving serviceThe power of education and the Wanderers Program in helping soldiers prepare for transitionThe duel between deficit thinking and asset thinking when it comes to life after DefenceWhy veterans are often more prepared than they realise to navigate changeHow music, writing, and philosophy fit into Harry’s mission of human revolutionHarry’s story is one of grit, curiosity, and creativity. It’s about carrying forward the best of service into the next chapter—and reminding us that reintegration isn’t an end, but a return with wisdom.👉 Website – https://veteranbc.com/veteran-media👉 Learn more about Harry: https://stotangroup.com.au/ 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community
🎙 New Episode Drop! S02E31 | Infantry to advocacy - how Zach Plath is supporting our communityWhat does it take to transform a career of service in the infantry into a mission of service for life? For Zach Plath, the answer lay in building a business that ensures veterans get the support they deserve—without the confusion, delays, and frustrations many experience when navigating DVA claims.As a former infantry soldier at 8/9RAR, Zach carried forward the discipline, systems thinking, and efficiency he learned in the ADF into his next chapter. With VetComp, he’s reimagining DVA advocacy—creating accessible, stress-free pathways for veterans, and proving that speed and quality can go hand in hand.In this episode, Zach joins Pete to talk about:Why he chose a fee-for-service model over traditional ESO advocatesThe principles from ADF life that continue to guide him in businessThe power of word of mouth within the veteran communityWhy VetComp runs fully in-office, and the culture that decision createsThe nuances of hiring veterans vs civilians—and the unique strengths both bringThis is more than a conversation about business. It’s about service, trust, and building systems that genuinely improve lives. If you’re curious about how military values translate into impactful entrepreneurship, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.👉 Learn more about Zach: vetcomp.com.au 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranSupport #InfantryToAdvocacy #VeteranEntrepreneur #DVAAdvocacy #BusinessWithPurpose #MilitaryToBusiness #FromServiceToSuccess #SupportingVeterans #VeteransCommunity #LeadershipInAction
🎙 S02E30 | From Infantry to Security – Sound Familiar? Mark Costello’s Journey to Building a Major Security Training BusinessIn this episode of Military Mindset for Business, we chat with Mark Costello, a veteran who transitioned from infantry life to becoming the founder of one of Australia’s leading security training organisations, Asset College.Mark shares how his military foundation shaped his career in security, risk management, and vocational training—and how those same values of discipline, integrity, and adaptability became the cornerstones of his business success. With years of experience leading teams, managing complex projects, and navigating fast-moving environments, Mark has built a training company trusted nationwide.If you’re curious about how military skills can translate into the business world—or how to turn discipline and resilience into a thriving enterprise—this episode is one you won’t want to miss.👉 Learn more about Mark’s work: www.asset.edu.au 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranAdvocate #AdvocatesOnline #VeteranSupport
🎙 New Episode Drop! S02E29 | A Relationship with Uncertainty? How Understanding Your Emotional Fitness and Behaviour Profile Can Be Game Changing in Business – with Miranda PackerIn this episode of Military Mindset for Business, we sit down with Miranda Packer—emotional fitness coach, behavioural profiler, and champion of better team communication.Miranda’s mission is simple but powerful: help leaders and teams stop playing the blame game and start building curiosity, compassion, and clarity. Through her work with EDISC profiling, she shows how understanding why people behave the way they do isn’t fluffy—it’s a strategic advantage.From Defence to business, resilience and readiness are critical. But without relational awareness, communication breaks down, friction rises, and retention suffers. Miranda explains how compassion, backed by behavioural insight, can transform workplaces into thriving, high-performing teams.This episode is a game-changer for leaders ready to unlock better communication, stronger retention, and healthier culture—starting with themselves.👉 Learn more about Miranda: mirandapacker.com.au 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #EmotionalFitness #Leadership #TeamCulture #EDISC #BehaviouralProfiling
🎙 S02E28 | Real estate insider - how to use a buyers agent to build your property portfolio - Kane DruryThis week on Military Mindset for Business, we're getting a masterclass in real estate from expert Kane Dury. As a professional buyers agent, Kane is a property and digital asset investor who helps people build robust, long-term portfolios.Kane shares his data-driven research methodologies for identifying high-growth properties and why working with a buyers agent is a strategic move, not an expense. We also touch on his personal experience as an investor and his insights into the global macro overlay that influences property and digital asset markets.Tune in to learn how to make smarter, more informed decisions and start building a property portfolio that truly works for you.👉 Connect with Kane:🌐Learn more: discoverbuyersagency.com.au 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community
🎙 S02E27 | Still serving - Kelliegh Jackson and her journey from veteran to veteran advocate. This week on Military Mindset for Business, we're joined by Kelliegh Jackson, the force behind Advocates Online. She's on a mission to transform how veterans and their families get the support they need.Kelliegh explains how Advocates Online provides a clear, digital platform that connects veterans with professional advocates. It's not about adding more services—it's about making existing support systems make sense and work together. Tune in to learn how this initiative is helping veterans not just survive, but truly thrive.👉 Connect with Kelliegh:🌐 advocatesonline.com.au 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranAdvocate #AdvocatesOnline #VeteranSupport
🎙 S02E26 | Sex and Money? Need More? Let’s Unpack Both with Your Money Mistress – Larissa ZimmermanThis week on Military Mindset for Business, we dive into the two topics everyone wants more of—sex and money. Our guest, Larissa Zimmerman, also known as Your Money Mistress, brings a bold and refreshing approach to financial health and personal empowerment.With a career spanning large Federal Government organisations and the private sector, Larissa now delivers executive coaching and staff training that integrates mental, physical, and financial wellbeing. Through her accredited Health & Wealth Program, she’s helped organisations and individuals achieve above-average results since 2009.From tackling taboos to breaking down money mindsets, Larissa shares why combining discipline, self-awareness, and financial fitness leads to a more productive, balanced, and fulfilling life.👉 Connect with Larissa: 🌐 financialfitness.com.au 🌐 yourmoneymistress.com🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community #VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #FinancialFitness #MoneyMistress #HealthAndWealth
In this episode of Military Mindset for Business, we sit down with Chris Seminatore, a US Navy veteran and founder of GetGeofencing.com.Chris takes us inside the world of geofencing and location-based advertising—showing how intelligence-style techniques can be applied to marketing. With over seven years of experience running high-impact campaigns for industries like real estate, restaurants, political campaigns, and healthcare, Chris reveals how businesses can outsmart competitors and reach customers with precision targeting.From his military background to building a cutting-edge agency, Chris shares his unique journey and insights on what it takes to combine strategy, creativity, and execution in business.👉 Tune in to learn how to leverage geofencing technology to dominate your market.🔗 Connect with Chris 🌐 Learn more: https://www.getgeofencing.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #Geofencing #DigitalMarketing #LocationBasedMarketing #VeteranEntrepreneur
🎙 S02E24 | Andrew Schaverien – From Education Corps to Buyer’s Agent: A Career Helping the HelperIn this episode of Military Mindset for Business, we sit down with Andrew Schaverien—Army veteran, buyer’s agent, and founder of Ralph & Ralph.Andrew’s career has always been about support—whether through service in the Education Corps, community leadership (including running for local government at just 21), or now as a buyer’s agent helping families find their homes.While his Army journey was unconventional—never deploying and having his most northerly posting in Sydney—it gave him deep lessons in identity, purpose, and what it really means to serve. The All Corps Majors Course proved pivotal, helping Andrew distil who he truly is.We cover: 🔹 The meaning of service when your career path looks different from others 🔹 Navigating identity and achievement in the shadow of an overachieving family 🔹 The story behind Ralph & Ralph, and the legacy of his WWII veteran grandfather 🔹 Publishing his first children’s book “My Family Is Buying a House” 🔹 Why helping others find stability through home ownership is his next mission💡 A must-listen for anyone redefining success, navigating life after Defence, or chasing a purpose-driven career.🔗 Connect with Andrew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-schaverien/ 🌐 Learn more: ralphandralph.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #RalphAndRalph #VeteranEntrepreneur #LifeAfterService #BuyersAgent
🎙 New Episode Drop! S02E23 | Own Place, Own Pace: Side Hustles and the real cost of patrolling Australia’s Northern waters with Navy Boatswain, Stephen KepperIn this episode of Military Mindset for Business, we sit down with Stephen Kepper—Navy veteran, former correctional officer, and founder of Dukes Medal Mounting.Stephen’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and finding purpose after service. From his first posting on HMAS Stuart to operational deployments in the Gulf and Op Resolute, Stephen faced both the highs of service and the deep challenges of injury and PTSD.After discharging from the Navy, he transitioned into civilian roles—from correctional officer to council compliance—before taking a leap of faith and building his own business honouring the service of others through precision medal mounting.We talk about:Life in the Navy and lessons from leadership and operationsThe personal impact of service-related injuries and PTSDNavigating career transitions after DefenceTurning a side hustle into a thriving businessThe importance of preserving and respecting military heritage💡 An inspiring listen for anyone navigating life after service or chasing their own business dreams.🔗 Connect with Stephen: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091298400488 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindsetforBusiness #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #NavyVeteran #DukesMedalMounting #LifeAfterService #VeteranStories #Resilience #Entrepreneurship
🎙 New Pod Drop! S02E22 | Defence Kidz matters - Passion & Purpose the Hayley Boswell StoryIn this episode of Military Mindset for Business, we sit down with Hayley Boswell—founder and CEO of Defence Kidz, a national charity supporting more than 100,000 children of current and former ADF members.A veteran spouse and former human rights lawyer, Hayley has become a driving force for military family advocacy—spearheading initiatives like Veteran Families Day and pushing for the recognition of military children on school enrolment forms across Australia.Through Defence Kidz, she’s delivered thousands of resources—from deployment packs to children’s books—helping kids stay connected during times of separation. Her work reaches millions online, but her mission is deeply personal: to make sure no military child feels invisible.We talk about:Building a movement from passion and purposeThe challenges and rewards of advocating for military familiesHow collaboration can amplify impactWhy recognising military kids is vital for the whole veteran community💡 A must-listen for anyone passionate about family, service, and creating lasting change.🔗 Connect with Hayley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayleyannboswell/🌐 Learn more: https://defencekidz.com.au/ 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #DefenceKidz #MilitaryFamilies #VeteranAdvocacy #ServiceLife
SE2E21 New Pod Drop! | Veterans at the Helm: Delivering Capability to Defence Supply ChainsIn this episode of Military Mindset for Business, we chat with Daniel Stevens, founder of Seitec and creator of UXOTrackS—a groundbreaking system for detecting and locating unexploded ordnance.A 20-year RAAF veteran, Daniel went from working on F-111s and Super Hornets to engineering solutions for Air Weapons Ranges. When he spotted a critical capability gap, he didn’t wait for industry to fix it—he built the answer himself. That idea became UXOTrackS, a project that won Defence backing, a $4.2M contract, and is now in operational use.We cover:How to turn barriers into opportunitiesLessons from taking an idea from concept to capabilityThe power of mindset in Defence innovationA few laughs—including a “foot-in-mouth” moment with DEP SEC CASG💡 If you’re into Defence, tech, or start-ups, this one’s gold.🔗 Connect with Daniel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-stevens-910844138/ 🌐 Learn more: seitec.com.au 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindsetforBusiness #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranBusiness #DefenceInnovation #UXOTrackS #Seitec #VeteranEntrepreneur
🎙 New Pod Drop! S02E20 | The Defence Estate Insider - Darian Macey. What you need to know about a $6+ Billion per year industryIn this episode of Military Mindset for Business, we sit down with Darian Macey, a veteran and former Army Engineering Officer turned founder of DECnet, Australia’s only industry intelligence and networking platform dedicated to the Defence Estate.With over 25 years of experience in the Defence sector—including 12 years in uniform with the Royal Australian Engineers—Darian shares his journey from leading military construction projects across Australia and the Pacific to building a platform that’s transforming how professionals connect within the Defence infrastructure space.🎯 Darian dives into:His transition from Army Captain to Defence sector entrepreneurThe importance of purpose-driven leadershipWhy networking and industry intelligence are key to future-proofing Defence infrastructureWhat sparked the idea behind DECnetLessons learned from teaching engineering, risk, and project management🎟️ Upcoming DECnet Events: Keen to network and stay ahead in the Defence Estate space? Check out Darian’s upcoming events here: 👉 https://decnet.com.au/events/🔗 Connect with Darian: LinkedIn🌐 Learn more: decnet.com.au 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community# VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #VBC #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #DefenceIndustry #VeteranLeadership #DefenceEstate #InfrastructureLeadership #FromMilitaryToBusiness #AustraliaDefence #DECnet
🎙 New Episode Drop! S02E19 | Military and first responder empowerment: how VESPIIA is making a change In this episode, we chat with Shannon Hennessy, founder of the Veterans, Emergency Services & Police Industry Institute of Australia (VESPIIA)—the country’s first professional body supporting those who serve and those who support them.Shannon opens up about launching VESPIIA with no safety net, her personal connection to service life, and how she’s building a stronger, more coordinated support system for veterans and first responders across Australia.What’s more: Shannon also delves into the VESPIIA Awards for Excellence, Australia’s first awards program specifically acknowledging the outstanding individuals and organisations in the veteran and first responder support sector. These Awards spotlight exemplary volunteers, staff members, academics, students, chaplains, supplier and allied teams, and strategic partnerships—shining a light on the often under-recognised but high-impact work that shapes our future. Nominations for the 2025 cycle open until 18 August 2025, offering a powerful platform not only for recognition and peer celebration, but also for inspiration toward sector-wide excellence.. Nominate now! 💡 If you’ve ever wanted to create impact in the face of fear, this one’s for you.🔗 Connect with Shannon: LinkedIn🌐 Learn more: vespiia.org.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindsetforBusiness #MM4B #VeteranBusinessCommunity #FirstResponders #Leadership #VESPIIA
In this episode, we’re joined by Claire Harris and Ron Kovalcik, the powerhouse duo behind Human Quotient Group—a veteran-led, certified social enterprise that’s redefining what it means to do business with purpose.Claire and Ron share how they’ve built a business that not only delivers high-impact outcomes in defence, logistics, and project management—but also champions wellbeing, education, and employment for veterans and women facing systemic workforce barriers. With a 100% veteran and spouse workforce, their mission is proof that values and enterprise can—and should—go hand in hand.💡 We talk purpose-led leadership, building inclusive teams, and why empathy and lived experience are business advantages.🔗 Connect with Claire & Ron: LinkedIn , LinkedIn 🌐 Explore Human Quotient 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #SocialEnterprise #VeteranBusiness #HumanQuotient #EmpathyInLeadership #WomenInDefence #InclusiveWorkplaces #VeteranSupport #PurposeDrivenBusiness
In this episode, we chat with Steve Baxter—Army veteran, serial tech entrepreneur, and investor behind Beaten Zone Venture Partners, a fund focused on backing early-stage Australian sovereign Defence tech.Steve unpacks the upcoming Beaten Zone TAK-HACK happening in Brisbane this August, what it’s all about, who it’s for, and why it’s more than just a Defence tech pitch fest. We talk veteran innovation, defence capability, and the collision of military discipline and entrepreneurial energy.💡 Whether you're a veteran, founder, or technologist—this is your call to lean in, show up, and help shape the future of Australia's sovereign defence ecosystem.🔗 Connect with Steve: LinkedIn 🌐 Explore Beaten Zone: beatenzone.vc🌐 Beaten Zone TAK-HACK: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/beaten-zone-tak-hack/posts/?feedView=all 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #MilitaryMindset4Business #MM4B #BeatenZone #TAKHACKHackathon2025 #DefenceTech #VeteranEntrepreneur #StartupLife #SovereignCapability #SteveBaxter #VeteranBusinessCommunity
🎙 S02E16 | From Infantry to ISO: A Rifleman’s Story with David NewIn this episode, Pete Liston sits down with David New, a former infantry Warrant Officer and now a highly sought-after Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) consultant, to explore the journey from military leadership to corporate compliance.David shares raw and real stories from his 21-year career in the Australian Army — including deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Timor-Leste, and the Solomon Islands — and how those experiences shaped his mindset and leadership approach. From jumping out of planes before ever landing in one, to now helping businesses navigate ISO standards and compliance, David’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose.Today, as the founder of Dyadic Consultancy, David helps micro, SME, and veteran-owned businesses strengthen their governance, operational resilience, and regulatory standing — boosting Australia’s Sovereign Capability in the process.Whether you're a veteran transitioning into business, a founder navigating compliance, or a leader wanting to optimise systems, this episode delivers insights worth their weight in gold.🔗 Connect with David New🌐 Website: https://www.dyadic.com.au/💼 LinkedIn: David New#MilitaryMindsetForBusiness #VeteranOwnedBusiness #DavidNew #VeteranToBusiness #GovernanceRiskCompliance #ISOStandards #MilitaryTransition #AustralianVeterans #SovereignCapability #VeteranLeadership #ComplianceConsulting #MilitaryToBusiness #VeteranEntrepreneurship #GRC
🎙️ S02E15 | CRM: Why Every Business Must Have One🎧 Episode Summary: In this episode of Military Mindset for Business, Pete Liston sits down with long-time business partner and fellow co-founder of the Veteran Business Community (VBC), Matt Moseley. From day one, Matt and Pete have built businesses side by side, navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship with military precision.Together, they unpack one of the most overlooked yet mission-critical tools in any business arsenal: the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. Whether you're just starting out or scaling fast, this conversation will show you exactly why a CRM isn’t optional—it’s essential.If you’ve ever thought “I’ll just keep track of clients in a spreadsheet,” this episode is your wake-up call.🎙️ Guest: Matt Moseley Co-founder, Veteran Business Community Serial entrepreneur & systems strategist🔗 Connect with Matt: LinkedIn
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