The Local Business Sessions

In this episode of The Local Business Sessions, Shannon Smit sits down with Olympic champion turned business leader Grant Hackett to explore what it takes to perform at the highest level and sustain it over time. From breaking world records in the pool to leading an ASX-listed financial services company, Grant shares the mindset, discipline and leadership lessons that have shaped his journey from...

For many small business owners, “doing it all” has become the norm, but it’s also often the very thing holding growth back. In this conversation, Shannon Smit reframes AI not as a complex or intimidating technology trend, but as a practical tool that can reduce pressure and create more time in the business. Rather than thinking of AI simply as something that writes content, Shann...

What does it really take to stop discounting yourself and start charging what you’re truly worth? In this episode of the  The Local Business Sessions Podcast , Shannon Smit  sits down with  Andrew Griffiths , Australia’s #1 small business author and one of the most respected voices in business and personal growth.  With over four decades of entrepreneurial experienc...

What if time wasn’t your biggest constraint – but your biggest opportunity? In this episode of The Local Business Sessions, we are joined by Kate Christie, internationally recognised time management expert, keynote speaker, and bestselling author. Kate has spent more than two decades helping business owners, leaders and teams take control of their time, energy and priorities. As the fo...

Connected Communities is your go-to resource for small businesses that want to thrive by engaging meaningfully with their local community. Each episode features award-winning businesses sharing practical strategies, proven approaches, and inspiring stories that show how community connection isn’t just good for people, it’s sound business practice. Learn how to strengthen relations...

Experience Matters is your go-to resource for small businesses that want to thrive by putting customers first. Each episode features award-winning local businesses sharing practical insights, proven strategies, and real-world examples of how great customer experiences drive loyalty, growth, and long-term success. Learn how to make customer experience not just a value, but a sound business practice...

Join us as we talk with award-winning local businesses proving that sustainability isn’t just good for the environment, it’s good for business. Discover practical tips, real-world success stories, and strategies to future-proof your small business while making a positive impact. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us as we talk with award-winning local businesses proving that inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart business move. Discover actionable tips, inspiring stories, and best practices for making your business accessible and welcoming to all. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this inspiring episode of The Small Business Festival Wrap-Up, we spotlight social enterprises and their transformative role in creating positive change. Xanthe Rivett, from the Frankston Social Enterprise & Innovation Hub, joins us to share insights into how this initiative supports businesses dedicated to social and environmental impact. Joining her are Sam Keck and Sam Hearn, Directors o...

In this episode of The Small Business Festival Wrap-Up, we tackle one of the most critical issues facing businesses today: cybersecurity. Adam Selwood,  founder of Cynch Security, joins us to discuss the concept of “cyber fitness” and how small businesses can identify and address their digital weak spots. Adam breaks down the key threats small businesses face in the digital landsc...

In this special episode of The Small Business Festival Wrap-Up, we explore the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence and its transformative impact on businesses. Jim Stewart from Stewart Media joins us in the studio to demystify AI and share his insights following his presentation at the Small Business Festival. Jim dives into the practical applications of AI for small businesses, from auto...

Welcome to our special wrap-up episode of the 2024 Small Business Festival, where we spotlight the Business Excellence Panel held at The Rocks, in Mornington. This vibrant event brought together five exceptional local business owners to share their stories, strategies, and secrets to success. Join us as we explore what makes these businesses thrive in a competitive landscape. Our panelists delve i...

In this episode of FMP Jobs Expo, we sit down with local business leaders to explore effective strategies for attracting and retaining skilled staff on the Mornington Peninsula. As competition for talent grows, our guests share proven methods that have helped them build successful teams and foster a positive workplace culture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com...

In this episode of FMP Jobs Expo, we explore the Trades and Construction sector, a cornerstone of growth and development on the Mornington Peninsula. Join us as we chat with local industry leaders, skilled tradespeople, and educators about the rewarding careers in trades and the growing demand for skilled professionals in construction, electrical work, plumbing, and more. See omnystudio.com/listen...

In this episode of FMP Jobs Expo, we turn the spotlight on the essential work happening within the Health and Community sector on the Mornington Peninsula. Join us as we talk to dedicated professionals from local healthcare organisations, social services, and community programs who are making a real difference in people’s lives every day. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See om...

In this episode of FMP Jobs Expo, we dive into the exciting world of the Experience Economy, where creating memorable moments is at the heart of every business. Join us as we speak with innovators, business owners, and event creators from the Mornington Peninsula who are transforming everyday activities into unforgettable experiences. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnyst...

In this episode of FMP Jobs Expo, we’re spotlighting the vibrant world of local agriculture and the job opportunities that fuel its growth. Join us as we talk to key players from the Mornington Peninsula’s agricultural industry, exploring the diverse roles that bring fresh produce, innovative farming practices, and sustainable solutions to our region. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform...

Welcome to the Local Business Sessions, where we invite business owners and operators from across the Mornington Peninsula to dive into strategies for overcoming challenges and leveraging strengths.  This episode’s topic is Growth Strategies: Managing Expansion and Diversification Explore the journeys of Richard Jeffares from Two Bays Brewing, Sheryn Strange from Mock Redhill, and Geoff Newing fro...

Welcome to the Business Survival Kit, where we invite business owners and operators from across the Mornington Peninsula to dive into strategies for overcoming challenges and leveraging strengths.  This episode’s topic is Future-Proofing Your Business: Navigating Climate Challenges Join Karen Lau from South East Water and Jess Cooper from Mornington Peninsula Shire as they explore sustainable busi...

Welcome to the Business Survival Kit, where we invite business owners and operators from across the Mornington Peninsula to dive into strategies for overcoming challenges and leveraging strengths.  This episode’s topic is Risk Management: Strategies to Safeguard Your Business Dive into expert advice on safeguarding your business from unforeseen challenges with effective risk mitigation strategies...

Welcome to the Business Survival Kit, where we invite business owners and operators from across the Mornington Peninsula to dive into strategies for overcoming challenges and leveraging strengths.  This episode’s topic is Tough Calls: Navigating Difficult Business Decisions Explore the multifaceted challenges and strategies of running a business with insights from Ray Jopling, Asuria Employment an...

Welcome to the Business Survival Kit, where we invite business owners and operators from across the Mornington Peninsula to dive into strategies for overcoming challenges and leveraging strengths.  This episode’s topic is Mastering Cashflow: Ensuring Financial Stability Gain valuable insights into the financial aspects of running a business from Jeremy Worthington from Worthington & Associates...

Welcome to the Local Business Sessions, where we invite business owners and operators from across the Mornington Peninsula to dive into strategies for overcoming challenges and leveraging strengths.  This episode’s topic is Sustainable Stewardship: Integrating Ethics into Business Learn how to embrace sustainable practices that benefit your business and the environment. Explore effective ways to i...

Welcome to the Local Business Sessions, where we invite business owners and operators from across the Mornington Peninsula to dive into strategies for overcoming challenges and leveraging strengths.  This episode’s topic is Sense of Place: Thriving on Local Inspiration Explore how Mornington Peninsula's natural beauty and proximity to Melbourne inspire local entrepreneurs to create purposeful prod...

Welcome to the Local Business Sessions, where we invite business owners and operators from across the Mornington Peninsula to dive into strategies for overcoming challenges and leveraging strengths.  This episode’s topic is Value Proposition: Defining What Sets You Apart Clearly define your value proposition to stand out in the market. Learn how to communicate what makes your business unique and i...