Plant Grow Reap

AI is your intern, not your replacement!In this episode, Chelsea is joined by Monica Marquez from Flipwork — a specialist in change management, culture, people and technology — to unpack what it really means to integrate AI into businesses the right way.They challenge the outdated idea that effort equals success, exploring how impact — not busyness — is the new measure of meaningful work. Monica introduces a powerful reframe: AI isn’t a threat — it’s your intern. When trained well, AI can support teams, reduce friction and make work easier, not replace human expertise. Spending less time on repetitive tasks isn’t cutting corners; it’s creating space to apply your uniquely human skills where they matter most.The conversation explores what successful AI adoption looks like in practice, where organisations often get stuck, and why some initiatives thrive while others fail — including real-world examples from companies like IKEA.Reach Out FlipWork: https://www.flipwork.ai/Connect with Monica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/

This episode of Plant Grow Reap is a must-listen for all employers, Directors and business owners.Payday Super is taking effect from 1 July 2026. Chartered Accountant and Aintree Group Manager Trung Le breaks down the key items you should be across, and the steps you can take to be the most prepared and proactive ahead of the rollout of these rules - including doing a practice payrun.Payday Super Resources:https://aintreegroup.com.au/insights/payday-super-update/https://www.ato.gov.au/businesses-and-organisations/super-for-employers/payday-superIf you need assistance with your payroll or superannuation obligations, you can reach out via our website: aintreeaccounting.com.au.

Andrea McKenna from Aintree Group and Ash Tickell from Salty Theatre share the ultimate guide to financial success for people working in the Australian arts industry. Building on a seminar they hosted earlier this year for local performing artists, this episode dives deep into how creatives can confidently manage irregular, gig-based income and make smart financial decisions that support long-term stability and growth. From saving and budgeting to investing, superannuation, contracting, invoicing, taxes, and building wealth on a gig income, this conversation is packed with practical advice and real-world examples to help artists and performers take control of their financial future. BOOK A SPOT AT OUR NEXT FINANCE FOR ARTISTS WORKSHOP: https://aintreegroup.com.au/finance-for-artists-workshop/ More from Aintree Group: https://aintreegroup.com.au/ | @aintregroup More from Salty Theatre: https://saltytheatre.com.au/ | @saltytheatre

Why is it so hard to succeed in hospitality — and what’s the recipe for success?In this episode of Plant Grow Reap, CEO and business advisor Andrea McKenna sits down with long-time hospitality professional Shaun De Vries from Open Pantry Co. to unpack the realities of running a hospitality business.With over 25 years of hands-on industry experience, Shaun shares why hospitality can be such a challenging space to succeed in, and how he’s now working to strengthen the industry by advising both new and established hospitality business owners. The conversation explores key challenges including supply chains, technology, investor management, and recruitment and training.This episode offers a practical, honest look at what it really takes to build a sustainable hospitality business — and how stronger foundations can lead to long-term success.Hear more from Shaun & Open Pantry Co:https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/https://www.instagram.com/openpantryconsulting/

To celebrate our 100th Aintree Group podcast episode across Plant Grow Reap and Q&A with S&A, we’re stepping back to reflect on the biggest lessons, recurring themes and insights shared by our incredible guests so far.Across conversations with business owners, professionals, athletes, creatives and community leaders, clear patterns have emerged. In this special milestone episode, we distil 100 episodes of wisdom into 10 powerful takeaways — from finding and following your personal purpose, to recognising early warning signs of burnout, rethinking what retirement really looks like, and why empathy, values and connection matter more than ever.We explore why there’s no single “right” career path, how the long way around can often be the most fulfilling, and why asking for help from trusted advisors is a strength, not a weakness.Whether you’re a long-time listener or discovering the podcast for the first time, this episode is a chance to pause, reflect and take something meaningful from the collective experience of 100 honest conversations — and counting.Subscribe to Plant Grow Reap or Q&A with S&A wherever you get your podcasts:https://aintreegroup.com.au/podcasts/Find out more about Aintree Group:https://aintreegroup.com.au/

From icecream for breakfast to reading A Christmas Carol - here is what the team at Aintree Group enjoys most about this time of year! We reflect on what we achieved in 2025, how we'll be celebrating and relaxing over the holidays, and what we're looking forward to most in the New Year. Merry Christmas from the whole team at Aintree Group! Have a happy and safe holidays. We'll be back with new podcast episodes from February 2026! More from our team: https://aintreegroup.com.au/

In this episode of Plant Grow Reap, Ruth Kent, Founder and Director of Sunrise Well, sits down with P&C Adviser and yoga teacher Jasmin Marotta to explore practical, meaningful ways workplaces can support genuine team wellbeing.With Victoria introducing new Occupational Health and Safety (Psychological Health) Regulations from 1 December 2025, employers will soon be required to identify, assess and control psychosocial hazards with the same rigour as physical risks. But Ruth and Jasmin go beyond the legal requirements — they examine how a more holistic, preventative approach to wellness can create immediate benefits for individuals while also delivering long-term cultural and financial returns for organisations.From sleep hygiene and meditation to leadership responsibility and the real ROI of wellness programs, this conversation offers an insightful look at what supporting teams truly requires in today’s evolving workplace landscape.See more from Ruth and Sunrise Well: https://www.sunrisewell.com.au/ Instagram: @sunrise_well LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkentsunrisewell/ More from Aintree Group: https://aintreegroup.com.au/ | @aintreegroup

In this episode, Aintree Group Wealth Director and Financial Planner James Stephen goes back to basics on money management. He explains why cash flow is the heartbeat of every financial plan and the foundation for achieving your goals, both personally, for families, and in business.James discusses common budgeting misconceptions, the importance of cash flow forecasting, and how to balance retirement savings with debt management. He also shares practical tools and strategies to help you take control of your finances.Whether you are managing a business or your personal finances, this episode will help you understand how to take charge of your cash flow and build a strong financial foundation.Find out more about Aintree Group Wealth: https://aintreewealth.com.au/

In this episode, Chelsea chats to award-winning author, Cybersecurity educator and consultant, Craig Ford from Cyber Unicorns.They discuss the importance of cybersecurity education and Craig’s mission to make online safety knowledge accessible to everyone. They explore how understanding and empathy are far more effective than fear when helping people protect themselves online.Craig shares why scaremongering often fails to inspire real change, and how connecting on a human level builds awareness and respect for the technology that shapes our daily lives. He also explains that cybersecurity is about more than just strong passwords — it includes how we share photos, handle phone calls, and manage our digital presence.To learn more about Cyber Unicorns and their mission to make cybersecurity approachable for all, visit their website: https://cyberunicorns.com.au/.You can also find Craig’s book series here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Craig-Ford/author/B07XNMMV8R?.

In this episode of Plant Grow Reap, we’re joined by Serenay Kalkan and Sarah Poole from Estate Xchange, for an honest and practical discussion with our Aintree Group Legal team about what really goes into estate administration.Together, they unpack the common challenges families face when navigating estates, and share how being prepared, staying organised, and having courageous conversations with your family and advisors ahead of time can make all the difference for your loved ones when you’re gone.It’s a thoughtful look at why estate planning isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about protecting the people and legacy you care about most, in a simplified, secure, and sympathetic way.Find out more about Estate Xchange: https://www.estatexchange.com.au/

In this episode, we sit down with Jayne Clarke, community wellbeing specialist and CEO & founder of Imagine Re-Evolution — a charity dedicated to building strong, resilient communities and supporting disengaged and disadvantaged young people.Imagine Re-Evolution empowers young people through creativity, bringing them together to design and make craft products that are then sold at local community markets. In doing so, it promotes entrepreneurship, a circular economy, and sustainability - while giving young people a sense of purpose and achievement.Jayne shares her belief that love and connection are the true antidotes to disengagement, and how offering a free, safe space for young people to come, create, and simply “just be” can have life-changing impacts. This conversation explores the power of creativity, community, and compassion in shaping brighter futures.Find out more about Imagine Re-Evolution: https://www.imaginereevolution.com/ | @imaginereevolutionReVAMP Community Markets: https://www.imaginereevolution.com/reevampImagine Re-Evolution is holding a fundraising gala on Saturday 15 November 2025. Find tickets to support this cause on the Imagine Re-Evolution Website!

This episode is close to home and close to our hearts!In this episode, Julie and Katie from Aintree Group share how our team has reshaped its approach to philanthropy in 2025 - with a stronger focus on maximising impact for local charities and community organisations.They discuss the thinking behind this shift, the volunteering experiences that inspired us, and the results highlighted in our inaugural Community Impact Report, which has just been released. Tune in to hear how being courageous custodians of our community is helping us create meaningful, lasting change.Read out Community Impact Report here: https://aintreegroup.com.au/insights/community-impact-report-2024-25/Find out more about our values and community involvement: https://aintreegroup.com.au/community-involvement/.

Finfluencers are everywhere — TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Reddit — offering quick “tax hacks” and confident advice. But should you really be making financial decisions based on a viral video? In this episode of Plant Grow Reap, Chelsea unpacks why social media tips (and even AI tools) can be risky when it comes to tax and compliance.From handbags-as-laptop-bags to “guard dog” deductions, we explore real-life examples flagged by the ATO, the legal and financial consequences of getting it wrong, and why context is everything. You’ll also learn how to filter online advice, spot red flags, and know when it’s time to call in a qualified professional.Because when it comes to your livelihood, trending content isn’t a substitute for tailored, expert advice.

In this episode, P&C Adviser Jasmin speaks with Dr Natalie Flatt - a psychologist and co-founder of Connect Psych Services, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) focused on supporting mental wellbeing in and beyond the workplace.They explore how leaders can set the tone for mentally healthy workplaces, the importance of creating psychological safety, and how technology is helping make mental health support more accessible. Natalie also shares practical insights into how organisations can reduce the risk of psychosocial hazards through early intervention and a proactive culture of care.Please note: This conversation contains general mental health information and is not a substitute for professional advice.If you’re in distress or need support, contact:Lifeline – 13 11 14Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636For emergencies - call 000RESEARCH REPORT ON WORKPLACE WELLBEING:5-Year Trend Analysis in Employee Support & Engagement is an Australian-first report offering a holistic look at how workplace wellbeing has evolved—spanning the pandemic years and beyond. It explores shifting employee needs, help-seeking behaviours, and the impact of proactive psychological support, helping organisations understand where we’ve been and where we’re heading in employee wellbeing.You can read the report here: http://bit.ly/3HyantCFind out more about Connect Psych Services: https://connectpsychservices.com.au/

"An audior and an accountant walk into a bar..."Doesn't sound like the start of an ethralling podcast, but this one is a must-listen for SMSF Trustees!Aintree Group’s Superannuation Manager David Bishop sits down with Seamless SMSF Auditor Frank La Spada to unpack how Trustees can make the annual audit process (slightly) less painful.They chat about practical and proactive ways to minimise audit queries, including what documentation you need to provide your accountant, how to get your property valuations right, and what to avoid if you want to stay out of trouble with the ATO.Find out more about Seamless SMSF: https://www.seamless-smsf.com.au/Find out more about Aintree Group: https://aintreegroup.com.au/

Author and advocate Jill Reilly shares the personal insights and powerful lessons she uncovered while writing her book, The 10 Permissions: Redefining the Rules of Adulting in the 21st Century.Jill explores how intentional choice-making, embracing your agency, and giving yourself permission to ask what you really want — even in small, everyday moments — can profoundly shift the trajectory of your life.This conversation unpacks how these practices help us navigate disruption, embrace change with greater ease, and ultimately find deeper purpose, growth and alignment.Learn more about Jill: tenpermissions.comPre-order her book: The 10 Permissions on Amazon

In this episode of Plant Grow Reap, Kane, Sophie, Sammi and Isabel return to the podcast to explore the values and experiences shaping Gen Z, and how they’re already influencing the future of work.They unpack what “meaningful work” means to them, why flexibility and positive workplace culture matter, how identity is tied to career, the impact of social media, and where they stand in the AI debate.Whether you’re leading a team or entering the workforce, this is a conversation worth tuning into.Find out more about what we do at Aintree Group: aintreegroup.com.au | @aintreegroup