
Veteran Business Community Podcast
123 episodes — Page 1 of 3
E123 | Paul Medina – ClickSquad: From the Marine Corps to Meta Ads and PPC Specialist—an American’s Journey to Melbourne
E122 | Rod Henderson - Australian Peacekeepers - A soldier's career and a national monument to military personnel killed in training. From big ambition comes big legacy.
E121 | Dan Exeter – ERA Group: Driving Commercial Success into Defence Industry. How a Lifetime of Corporate and Military Experience Gives Dan the Insights into Defence Industry Success.
E120 | Dr Sandra Gallagher – Eureka Learning Network: How VR and gamification are changing the way we learn
S03E45 | Peter Liston – My Tribute to the Reserves: Why Your Service Matters and Your Business Is Important to VBC
S03E44 | Lorne Thurgar – Loot Pay: Tired of paying high fees for electronic payments or need a new way to do POS on the run? Former Navy and Australian Federal copper Lorne explains how.
S03E43 | Building Australia’s Veteran Business Ecosystem – Part 2: The Big Picture. Why Veteran Enterprise Matters – Peter Liston
S03E42 | Steve Baxter – TAK HACK 26 and Reveille 26: Two key events for investors and innovators run by Beaten Zone Venture Capital
S03E41 | Luke Irwin – Aegis Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity and maximising your media profile—how to get it right.
S03E40 | Building Australia’s Veteran Business Ecosystem – Part 1: Pete Liston’s Why
S03E39 | Paul Brackley – Jet Flight Simulators: Creating a business that runs without you to build an asset and passive income.
S03E38 | Mike Taylor - Fair Air Fire Masks. Classic business conundrums - see problem, fix it. How a practical observation led the the development of a world class solution.
S03E37 | Zian Meredith and Chris Phillis - MarchOut. Plenty of support getting you into the military - but what happens when you get out?? Why we need MarchOut to bridge the gap between two worlds
S03E36 | Karl Schwantes - Serial entrepreneur - artilleryman - master of customer experience. Listen to Karl's journey from Xennox Diamonds to Reputable to The Curated Circle.
S03E35 | Michelle Creevey - Purpose Procurement. Tendering and RFQ's - it's always a big effort - so get the basics right to empower your success.
S03E34 | James Moody - Shire Pool Care. The power of businesses that actually 'do things' - don't underestimate how successful practical businesses can be.
S03E33 | VetCon26 - Veteran Business Conference and Awards night - Why you need to be there
S03E32 | Dr Alexis Badger - With Me With You - life as an Army Doctor and why veteran medicine is so important now more than ever
S03E31 | Glenn Keys - Aspen Medical - Arte et Marte! From test pilot on rotary wing and F18, through to starting the global leader in deployable health care - Aspen Medical. An amazing Australian #stillserving through his business, leadership and Project
S03E30 | Phil Dembon - British Navy veteran now passionate North Queenslander. From Manchester to Mareeba and the Cairns VBC regional chapter starting up.
S03E29 | Andrew Macdonald - From Army Officer to building global brands. Scaling Ringers Western, expanding into the US, and what it really takes to grow
S03E28 | Shane Mitchell - Cold Bore Precision. From 30 + years in the Army to shooting ferals (animals) and blasting on mine sites. A life full of adventure and passion for country.
S03E27 | Back to the track - ANZAC Day 27 - Brigade Hill on Kokoda Track with Trojans Trek. Dan Vincent and Tim Keeffe explain how it all works
S03E26 | John McIlrath - an amazing inspiring story from a remarkably average Aussie bloke. Joining the Army young, to dying 5 times, to building a thriving Safety Business. Arte et Marte
S03E25 | Jesse Edwards - Northy gym - The power of authenticity and community. What is HYROX and why you should join Pete on the HYROX journey.
S03E24 | Damien Thomlinson - Part 2 - Life after the military. The power of turning up (and becoming an author, multisport athlete, reality TV star, Hollywood actor - is there anything this lad can't do??)
S03E23 | Damien Thomlinson - Part 1. From coastie life, to joining up, to 'that' day in Afghanistan

Ep 96S03E22 | Victor Kortlang – Veteran Capital: Wealth Creation and Protection, Do You Have the Right Experts in Your Corner?
New Episode Drop!S03E22 | Victor Kortlang – Veteran Capital: Wealth Creation and Protection, Do You Have the Right Experts in Your Corner?In this episode, we sit down with Victor Kortlang, founder of Veteran Capital, a boutique financial advisory firm dedicated to helping veterans and their families build, protect, and take control of their financial future.A former Maritime Warfare Officer in the Navy with 15 years of service, Victor deployed on multiple operations including humanitarian and domestic support missions, finishing his career as Executive Officer of HMAS Benalla. Through his own transition, he identified a major gap — a lack of financial advisers who truly understand the complex entitlements, superannuation structures, and financial challenges unique to the veteran community.In this episode, Victor breaks down:Why so many veterans struggle with financial confidence and planningThe gaps in the financial advice industry when it comes to veteran-specific knowledgeThe shift from defined benefit schemes like MSBS to modern superannuation, and what it means for long-term securityHow veterans can build wealth, protect their future, and choose the right experts to support them🌐 Learn more: veterancapital.com.au 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #FinancialPlanning #WealthCreation #VeteranSupport #MilitaryToCivilian #ADF #Superannuation #FinancialSecurity #VeteranCapital

Ep 95S03E21 | David Hammon – Scenic World, BridgeClimb and Sydney Zoo: Creating a Family Legacy in Business
Fresh Drop!S03E21 | David Hammon – Scenic World, BridgeClimb and Sydney Zoo: Creating a Family Legacy in BusinessOn this episode, we speak with David Hammon, Group CEO and Director of Hammons Holdings, the parent company behind some of Australia’s most iconic tourism experiences, including Scenic World and BridgeClimb Sydney. David brings a rare blend of family legacy, strategic leadership, and business growth expertise to the table.David shares his journey from co-managing Scenic World alongside his sister to leading Hammons Holdings through major expansions and innovative projects, including a $30 million redevelopment of the Scenic Railway and winning the NSW Government tender to operate tourism activities on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. He also oversees the company’s diversification strategy, including investments in Sydney Zoo and URBNSURF Melbourne, and sits on the Board of Sydney Zoo.In this episode, David dives into:The challenges and rewards of building a family legacy businessLeading high-profile tourism projects with innovation and sustainable growthHow to diversify and scale businesses while maintaining brand integrityLessons from navigating government tenders, partnerships, and major redevelopment projects🌐 Learn more about Hammons Holdings: hammonsholdings.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranBusiness #Leadership #Tourism #BusinessGrowth #FamilyBusiness #Innovation #ScenicWorld #BridgeClimb #SydneyZoo #LegacyBusiness

Ep 94S03E20 | James Giess – Your Import Partner: Is Importing Right for You and How to Do It with Confidence
New Episode Alert!S03E20 | James Giess – Your Import Partner: Is Importing Right for You and How to Do It with ConfidenceOn this episode, we talk with James Giess, a former Australian Army officer turned startup leader. James’ career spans operational, command, and staff roles—including deployments on Operation SLIPPER and Operation PALADIN—where he commanded the 3rd Field Supply Company. His time in Defence gave him a strong foundation in leadership, logistics, decision-making, and performing in uncertain environments.After leaving the Army, James tested himself in the private sector, gaining experience in device refurbishment, warehouse automation at Amazon Australia, and distribution and transport leadership at Jaycar Electronics Group. Drawing on this expertise, he now leads Your Import Partner, a startup helping businesses confidently navigate product sourcing and logistics for the construction industry.In this episode, James shares:How his military experience shaped his approach to business and supply chain leadershipThe lessons learned from leading teams in high-pressure environmentsHow to approach importing with confidence, avoiding common pitfallsWhy adaptability, low-ego problem-solving, and learning fast are some of the strongest assets veterans bring to business🌐 Learn more about James and Your Import Partner: yourimportpartner.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #Leadership #Logistics #SupplyChain #Importing #MilitaryToCivilian #StartupLeadership #ADFA #OperationalExcellence #VeteranSkills

Ep 93S03E19 | Part 2 - leading Australian Aviation Corps first combat air assault in Afghanistan and why he started Cor Infinitus - building monuments to recognise those who served the country and have taken their own lives.
Fresh Drop!S03E19 | Part 2 - leading Australian Aviation Corps first combat air assault in Afghanistan and why he started Cor Infinitus - building monuments to recognise those who served the country and have taken their own lives.In this second part of our conversation with Kevin Humphreys DSC, we dive deeper into his extraordinary journey as a helicopter pilot and Army officer, leading the Australian Aviation Corps’ first combat air assault in Afghanistan. Kevin shares the challenges, the decisions under pressure, and the leadership lessons that shaped him during one of the most pivotal moments in modern Australian military history.This episode also explores Kevin’s mission beyond the cockpit: founding COR INFINITUS, an initiative dedicated to honouring and supporting veterans and their families impacted by suicide. Kevin explains why creating monuments and meaningful recognition is vital to remembering those who have served and the sacrifices they’ve made, and how this work fuels his ongoing commitment to breaking the stigma around mental illness.In this episode, you’ll hear:Kevin’s leadership of Australia’s first combat air assault in AfghanistanThe high-pressure decisions and teamwork required in aviation combat operationsThe story behind COR INFINITUS and its mission to commemorate fallen veteransInsights into mental health advocacy, resilience, and supporting veteran familiesHow personal and professional experiences combined to drive purpose and action🌐 Learn more about Kevin Humphreys and COR INFINITUS: kevinhumphreys.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #Leadership #MentalHealth #PTSD #Resilience #MilitaryToCivilian #HelicopterPilot #DistinguishedServiceCross #IntentionalLeadership #VeteranSupport #CorInfinitus #CombatAirAssault

Ep 92S03E18 | Kevin Humphreys DSC - Part 1 - The quest to fly and developing the Chinook as a combat ready offensive weapon deployed in Afghanistan.
New Episode Drop!S03E18 | Kevin Humphreys DSC - Part 1 - the quest to fly and developing the Chinook as a combat ready weapon in Afghanistan.In this episode of the Veteran Business Community Podcast, we talk with Kevin Humphreys DSC, ex-Army officer, helicopter pilot, and mental health ambassador. Kevin’s career spans over 20 years of service, including operational deployments to East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan, where he helped develop the Chinook helicopter into a combat-ready offensive weapon. His leadership under fire earned him the Distinguished Service Cross.Beyond his military achievements, Kevin shares how depression and self-doubt affect us all - including those with significant rank on their shoulder. How he confronted rock bottom and fighting for personal recovery. Today, he channels these experiences into mental health advocacy through Cor Infinitus (www.corinfinitus.org), an organisation dedicated to building memorials for those who served the nation yet took their own lives. You can also find Kevin on the professional speaking tour as a keynote. In this episode, you’ll hear:Kevin’s journey from Army officer to helicopter pilot and operational leaderThe challenges of developing the Chinook for combat deployment in AfghanistanHis personal battle with mental health and how he transformed adversity into purposeLessons in leadership, resilience, and leading with empathy in high-pressure environments🌐 Learn more about Kevin Humphreys: kevinhumphreys.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #Leadership #MentalHealth #PTSD #Resilience #MilitaryToCivilian #HelicopterPilot #DistinguishedServiceCross #IntentionalLeadership #VeteranSupport

Ep 91S03E17 | Don Shields - Surprising truths about business insurance. The things you need to now but probably never thought of.
New pod is out!S03E17 | Don Shields - Surprising truths about business insurance. The things you need to now but probably never thought of. In this episode of the Veteran Business Community Podcast, we sit down with Don Shields, Army veteran, former Major, and founder of Geelong Insurance Brokers. Don shares his extraordinary journey from enlisting in the Australian Army in 1982, rising through the ranks, and facing life-changing adversity, to building a successful business in the insurance industry.From his military experiences — firing salutes that broke windows, commanding troops, and leading during challenging deployments — Don learned lessons that have stayed with him long after leaving the uniform. He talks about resilience, the power of determination, and how the skills and discipline gained in the military helped him navigate cancer, leadership challenges, and running a business.Don also shares practical insights for veteran entrepreneurs, including:How to deal with adversity and turn challenges into opportunitiesWhy determination, attitude, and the skills you bring from civilian life can outweigh experience gapsLessons in leadership, planning, and accountability that apply in business and life🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #Leadership #Resilience #Entrepreneurship #MilitaryToCivilian #InsuranceIndustry #Adversity #HighPerformanceTeams

Ep 90S03E16 | Tony Simmonds - Serving in Gaza in the 1990's and converting a passion for training into a national business - the evolution of ITPL.com.au
Our latest episode is out!Tony Simmonds is a former Australian Army Sapper Officer who served for more than 22 years before transitioning into the world of project management, risk management, and education. With over four decades of experience across defence, government, and international consulting, Tony has worked in complex environments around the world including the Middle East, Europe, and Indonesia. Today he leads Interlink Technology and its Registered Training Organisation, helping professionals and organisations develop the practical skills required to manage projects, risk, and leadership in high-stakes environments. In this episode, Tony shares lessons from a lifetime of leadership, from military engineering and United Nations operations to global project consulting. He speaks about the importance of education, continuous learning, and helping veterans translate their military experience into qualifications and capabilities valued by industry. For Tony, supporting veterans through education and professional development is essential to ensuring their knowledge, skills, and leadership continue to create impact long after service.🌐 Learn more: itpl.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #Leadership #ProjectManagement #RiskManagement #VeteranTransition #Education

Ep 89S03E15 | VBC Advisory - The launch is here. VBC takes community support to the next level with our business coaching and advisory service. Listen to the chat with Ed Plant and Pete Liston
Fresh Drop!S03E15 | VBC Advisory - The launch is here. VBC takes community support to the next level with our business coaching and advisory service. Listen to the chat with Ed Plant and Pete ListonIn this episode, Peter Liston sits down with business coach and Army veteran Ed Plant to introduce VBC Advisory — a new initiative designed to help veteran business owners grow stronger, more sustainable businesses.As co-founder of The Business League, Ed has spent more than 15 years helping service-based businesses focus on what actually drives growth. From fixing unclear strategy and inconsistent delivery to building systems that support teams and profit, Ed shares practical insights on scaling a business without burning out. Together, Peter and Ed unpack why accountability, clear strategy, and strong systems are essential for veteran entrepreneurs looking to take their businesses to the next level.🌐 Learn more about The Business League: thebusinessleague.com.au 🌐 Sign up for the VBC Advisory now! 📅 Join a VBC Info Session: https://calendly.com/peter-veteranbc/veteran-business-information-session 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community #VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Systems #ScalingBusiness #VeteranEntrepreneurs

Ep 88S03E14 | From Denmark to the Marine Corps to Principal of Merg Architect Agency: A Global Journey
Fresh Drop!S03E14 | From Denmark to the Marine Corps to Principal of Merg Architect Agency: A Global Journey Christian Thuesen’s journey spans continents, careers, and industries. From growing up in Europe and the U.S., to serving as a U.S. Marine Corps engineer, Christian pivoted into architecture in Germany and Australia, leading major infrastructure projects like Sydney Light Rail and Sydney Metro. In 2025, he co-founded MERG, a design and construction company built on collaboration, respect for trades, and practical problem-solving.In this episode, Christian shares lessons from his military service and architectural career, including how humility, curiosity, and honest communication with teams create the best outcomes. He also dives into what it takes to transition skills across industries, the importance of building businesses with strong partnerships, and how lived experience shapes leadership and design. If you want to learn more about MERG and their work, check out Christian’s capability statement below.🌐 Learn more: merg.au 📄 MERG Capability Statement: https://hubs.ly/Q045P-h20 🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community #VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #Leadership #CareerTransition #MilitaryToCivilian #Architecture #Infrastructure #MERG #HighPerformanceTeams

Ep 87S03E13 | Nick Swifte from Swifty Media - Does your business have a place advertising in mass media? How the digital revolution is creating more access for businesses advertising in media
S03E13 | Nick Swifte from Swifty Media - Does your business have a place advertising in mass media? How the digital revolution is creating more access for businesses advertising in mediaNick Swifte is an advertising, marketing and media professional with more than 25 years’ experience, including senior leadership roles overseeing State and Federal Government behaviour change campaigns. From negotiating national media agreements and managing teams of 60+ people, to securing “Outstanding” Federal Government rate outcomes, Nick has operated at the highest levels of media strategy, investment and procurement. Today, as Founder of Swifty Media, he helps organisations — including RSL Victoria, Crime Stoppers and Starbucks Australia — navigate the modern media landscape with smarter, more accessible advertising solutions.In this episode, Nick breaks down whether mass media still has a place for growing businesses — and how the digital revolution has actually lowered the barrier to entry. He unpacks the myths around TV, radio and large-scale campaigns, explains how strategic media planning drives behaviour change, and shares practical insights for business owners considering stepping beyond social media into broader, high-impact channels.🌐 Learn more: swiftymedia.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #MediaStrategy #MassMedia #DigitalAdvertising #VeteranNetwork #BusinessGrowth #MarketingLeadership

Ep 85S03E12 | Miriam Kent - Gallipoli Medical research - What is it, what do they do and why is it important.
Fresh drop!S03E12 | Miriam Kent - Gallipoli Medical research - What is it, what do they do and why is it important.Miriam Kent is the CEO of Gallipoli Medical Research, a not-for-profit advancing veteran health and wellbeing through world-class research. With a career spanning senior leadership roles in both Australia and the UK — including Brisbane City Council, The Body Shop, Marks & Spencer, and the Brisbane Economic Development Agency — Miriam brings deep experience in strategy, operations, and delivering meaningful impact at scale.In this episode, Miriam shares insights from a 2025 Boss X International visit to the Australian Army’s Rifle Company Butterworth in Malaysia. She reflects on the physical and mental demands Reservists face daily, and how these skills translate into civilian workplaces. From experiencing the weight of military gear firsthand to understanding the resilience built in service, she explores how recognising everyday military commitment can shape support for veterans in business and beyond.🌐 Learn more: https://gallipoliresearch.org.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community #VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #VeteranHealth #MedicalResearch #VeteranWellbeing #Leadership #ADF #Reservists #MilitaryToCivilian

Ep 86S03E11 | The most important pod to date - Michelle Creevey - why veteran procurement matters to Australia
New Episode Drop!S03E11 | The most important pod to date - Michelle Creevey - why veteran procurement matters to AustraliaMichelle Creevey is a supply chain and procurement leader with nearly two decades of experience delivering high-value outcomes across complex and highly regulated industries. As Founder of Purpose Procurement, she helps organisations in defence, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and technology design human-centric procurement strategies that strengthen supply chains, boost sovereign capability, and create measurable social and economic impact.In this episode, Michelle shares insights from her career at Boeing Defence Australia — including architecting the award-winning social procurement strategy that grew Indigenous business spend from $3,945 to over $98 million. She explores how human-centred procurement, inclusive sourcing, and strong supplier relationships can turn intent into action, while also reflecting on her family’s proud military heritage and the values that underpin her leadership.🌐 Learn more: https://www.purposeprocurement.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #SocialProcurement #SupplyChain #DefenceIndustry #InclusiveSourcing #SovereignCapability #Leadership #Impact

Ep 84S03E10 | Aaron Drew - Imperium engineering - How to harness Absolute Power. From firing Harpoon missiles on Australian frigates to leading a world class electrical engineering company fusing design, construction and software.
New Episode drop!S03E10 | Aaron Drew - Imperium engineering - How to harness Absolute Power. From firing Harpoon missiles on Australian frigates to leading a world class electrical engineering company fusing design, construction and software. Aaron Drew joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1991 as a 17-year-old apprentice, serving 16 years across WA-based ships as a Missile and Gun Fire Control operator and maintainer. Spending more than 11 years at sea, including deployments to Iraq, Aaron built his career in high-risk, high-reliability environments where precision and accountability mattered.After transitioning out of the Navy, Aaron studied Electrical Engineering before moving into the mining, oil & gas, and power sectors. He has since founded and operated multiple engineering businesses, culminating in Imperium Engineering and the development of Total-Ex, a world-leading software platform improving safety, compliance, and operational performance in hazardous industries. Proud father of two, husband, and dog-dad to two American Staffies, Aaron brings a veteran’s discipline into modern engineering and technology leadership.🌐 Learn more: https://imperiumeng.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #VeteranFounder #EngineeringLeadership #DefenceToIndustry #Mining #OilAndGas #SafetySystems

Ep 83S03E09 | Marcus Nyholm from Live Financial planning - Your finances are an ecosystem. Why your financial advisor needs to be one of your inner circle.
Fresh Pod Drop!S03E09 | Marcus Nyholm from Live Financial planning - Your finances are an ecosystem. Why your financial advisor needs to be one of your inner circle.Marcus Nyholm is a financial adviser and founder of Live Financial Planning, a practice built around clear, practical advice without unnecessary complexity. He began his career in financial services in his early 20s, completing his Certified Financial Planner (CFP) qualification before joining Victoria Police in 2006. Alongside his policing career, Marcus served in the Australian Army Reserve and later spent 14 years with the 1st Commando Regiment, including operational deployments to Timor-Leste and Afghanistan.In this episode, Marcus shares why his philosophy is that “freedom is the new rich” and how smart financial planning creates options, not restrictions. He unpacks the unique financial complexity veterans and emergency services members face — from DVA and military super to business ownership — and explains how simplifying decisions, aligning assets, and planning with intent can create long-term security and genuine freedom.🌐 Learn more: https://livefinancialplanning.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #FinancialFreedom #VeteranFinance #EmergencyServices #BusinessOwners #FreedomIsTheNewRich

Ep 82S03E08 | Clint Rahe - peak performances doesn't just apply to elite athletes and teams - it's there for all of us. Tune in to get some basic hacks from an expert on how to deliver at your best
🎙 New Episode Drop!S03E08 | Clint Rahe - peak performances doesn't just apply to elite athletes and teams - it's there for all of us. Tune in to get some basic hacks from an expert on how to deliver at your bestClint Rahe is a former Royal Air Force Physical Training Instructor with 12 years’ service, working with fast-jet pilots, frontline squadrons, and special operations teams. After military service, he supported elite professional sports teams, including Premier League football clubs, Super League rugby teams, and national-level athletes. Today, as founder of The Performance Edge and author of The Cognitive Athlete, Clint translates military and elite performance, resilience, and recovery principles into practical tools for sustainable success without burnout.Clint highlights a key insight for veterans: many underestimate how transferable their skills really are. Decision-making under pressure, leadership without authority, adaptability, resilience, and recovery are learned through experience, not classrooms. Sharing our stories and translating these skills into civilian language doesn’t just help others—it builds businesses, creates impact, and shortens learning curves for the next generation.🌐 Learn more: theperformanceedge.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #Resilience #Leadership #Performance #EliteAthlete #TransitionSkills #TheCognitiveAthlete #VeteranEntrepreneur

Ep 81S03E07 | Dan Fussell - From firing live artillery in Afghanistan to teach corporate leadership through Adventure training. Come and see why Dan believes people don't rise to the moment, they fall to their highest level of training.
S03E07 | Dan Fussell - From firing live artillery in Afghanistan to teach corporate leadership through Adventure training. Come and see why Dan believes people don't rise to the moment, they fall to their highest level of training.Dan Fussell is a former Australian Army officer with 14 years’ service, including operational deployments to Afghanistan as a Gun Line Troop Commander and Joint Fires Team Commander. After witnessing firsthand the pressures soldiers face on operations, Dan became deeply involved in adventurous training, using controlled exposure to fear, stress, and uncertainty to build resilience and leadership. Today, as Managing Director of Keltus, he delivers experiential learning programs that help individuals and organisations perform under pressure through deliberate, practical resilience training.In this episode, Dan shares why resilience doesn’t end when the uniform comes off — it just becomes easier to neglect. From leaving the Army to building Keltus while living on the road with a young family, Dan unpacks how performance under pressure still demands intentional practice. Whether leading soldiers, staff, or yourself as a founder, his message is clear: you don’t rise to the occasion — you fall back on your training, and resilience must be continually earned.🎧 Listen to the full episode:🌐 Learn more: https://www.keltus.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community #VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #ResilienceTraining #ExperientialLearning #HighPerformance #VeteranOwned #LeadershipUnderPressure

Ep 80S03E06 | James Middleton - From managing the air warfare battle space in the Middle East to ethical leadership.
New pod release!S03E06 | James Middleton - From managing the air warfare battle space in the Middle East to ethical leadership. James Middleton is a former Royal Australian Air Force Air Battle Manager and Mission Commander on the E-7A Wedgetail, with nearly two decades of leadership experience across military operations and the defence industry. Serving at No. 2 Squadron, James led and mentored mission-ready teams across multiple deployments before transitioning into industry, where he has delivered complex capability development and leadership programs for organisations of all sizes. His work centres on building resilient, high-performing teams grounded in values and purpose.In this episode, James explores purpose-driven leadership and why veterans often excel in business — but can struggle to scale purpose beyond the founder. He shares how behaviours, systems, and daily practices create genuine connection to purpose, enabling better decision-making, innovation, and resilience when it matters most. Drawing on lived experience, James challenges leaders — particularly in defence industry — to reconnect with the true purpose of their work and build organisations that perform sustainably without constant top-down motivation.🌐 Learn more: ethiclead.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #VeteranLeadership #PurposeDriven #DefenceIndustry #LeadershipDevelopment #HighPerformanceTeams #VeteranBusiness

Ep 79S03E05 | Veteran Industry Portal - It's live and ready for opportunities. Come listen to Tim Walmsley and Pete chat about how the BenchOn powered Portal is going to revolutionise veteran procurement.
New Episode Alert!S03E05 | Veteran Industry Portal - It's live and ready for opportunities. Come listen to Tim Walmsley and Pete chat about how the BenchOn-powered Portal is going to revolutionise veteran procurement.Tim Walmsley is a former Australian Defence Force leader with 12 years’ service, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he managed complex operations in challenging environments. After transitioning to business, Tim founded BenchOn, a platform that transforms procurement, supply chain management, and resource allocation by digitally connecting projects, people, and suppliers. His work helps Tier 1 contractors and major projects build resilient local supply chains while closing capability gaps in Australian enterprise.In this episode, Tim shares his insights on sovereign capability, local supply chains, and leveraging technology to create smarter, more connected industries. Beyond BenchOn, he is committed to supporting communities—delivering training for industry professionals, directing Defence Industry Networking events, and serving on the board of This Story Australia to amplify veteran voices. Tim’s vision is clear: by working together, businesses and communities can seize the opportunities of 2025 and build enduring impact.🌐 Learn more: benchon.com🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #SupplyChain #Procurement #DefenceIndustry #SovereignCapability #Leadership #VeteranEntrepreneur #AustralianBusiness

Ep 78S03E04 | James Jensen - Why leadership is a profession, not a position. How K6 leadership consulting was born from a lifetime of service at the pointy end of the SASR.
🎙 Fresh Episode!S03E04 | James Jensen - Why leadership is a profession, not a position. How K6 leadership consulting was born from a lifetime of service at the pointy end of the SASR. James Jensen is a former SAS Patrol Commander with 20 years in the Australian Defence Force, including 14 years in the Special Air Service Regiment (SAS). He led teams on multiple combat tours across Afghanistan, Iraq, East Timor, and the Philippines, gaining firsthand insight into the power—and consequences—of leadership in high-pressure environments. Today, as the founder of K6 Consulting, James helps organisations unlock leadership potential, applying lessons from elite military operations to real-world business and team dynamics.In this episode, James shares his unique leadership journey: completing four years of officer training but choosing to serve as a soldier first, testing leadership theory from the ground up without “handrails.” He discusses how this experience reshaped his understanding of what effective leadership really is, and how he now combines behavioural science, psychology, and practical experience to build leadership programs that develop professional, resilient, and high-performing teams.🌐 Learn more: k6consulting.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #VeteranLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #SAS #ADF #TeamPerformance #BehaviouralScience #ProfessionalLeadership #VeteranEntrepreneur

Ep 77S03E03 | Dominic Smith - Army veteran, entrepreneur, farmer, aboriginal man. A quiet Australian making big noise through his community programs and amazing businesses.
🎙 Fresh Drop!S03E03 | Dominic Smith - Army veteran, entrepreneur, farmer, aboriginal man. A quiet Australian making big noise through his community programs and amazing businesses.Dominic Smith is a veteran, entrepreneur and nurse whose work sits at the intersection of health, business and men’s wellbeing. After serving as a chef in the Australian Defence Force, Dominic worked across nursing, disability, aged care and community support before founding Brotherwood, a men’s mental health and leadership ecosystem built around purpose, structure and community. Alongside this, he runs Pundi Bitters, Diramu Skincare, and a regenerative bush-food farm in the Riverland.In this episode, Dominic shares how lived experience, hardship and resilience shaped his approach to business and leadership. From creating a drink that doesn’t wreck your liver, to building products and communities that help men reconnect with strength and direction, his message to veterans is simple: we’ve survived far worse than business — and if one bloke can build this from scratch, so can you.🌐 Learn more: pundi.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #MensMentalHealth #Entrepreneurship #Wellbeing #VeteranOwned #Brotherwood #Pundi #PurposeDriven

Ep 76S03E02 | Stepping up or stepping out of your business - how to drive accountability performance with Rebecca Plant
🎙 Fresh Drop! S03E02 | Stepping up or stepping out of your business - how to drive accountability performance with Rebecca PlantRebecca Plant is a Performance and Accountability Partner who works with founders, CEOs and executive teams to lift standards, stabilise performance, and stop leaders carrying their businesses alone. With a background in journalism and more than 15 years in behavioural and leadership consulting, Rebecca is known for helping organisations remove accountability gaps early, cleanly, and without drama. She is the co-author of the international bestseller Lead-the-Ship and the founder of The Business League.A former Australian National Netball League athlete, Rebecca brings elite performance thinking into leadership — clear standards, discipline and follow-through. In this episode, she breaks down why performance is a system, not a personality, how leaders unknowingly become bottlenecks, and why accountability, done properly, is one of the kindest things a leader can offer their team.👉 Website – veteranbc.com/veteran-media🌐 Learn more: theperformanceedge.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #Leadership #Accountability #Performance #Founders #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessGrowth #HighPerformanceTeams #TheBusinessLeague

Ep 75S03E01 | Daniel Vincent - The Trojans Trek
Daniel Vincent is a 16-year Australian Army veteran and one of the leading voices in veteran transition, mental wellness, and employment pathways. Now Chair of Trojans Trek, he helps deliver programs built on self-discovery and peer connection for veterans and emergency service personnel.Daniel has created national scholarship and mentoring programs, shaped cyber-focused transition initiatives, and held senior roles across health leadership and wellbeing at GO2 Health. With an MBA and mental health qualifications, he brings both lived experience and clinical understanding to his work.We also touch on his recent Kokoda trek, reflections on psychedelic-assisted therapy, and the ideas he shares in his latest articles.🌐 Learn more: trojanstrek.com🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #VeteranBusiness #VeteranSupport #TrojansTrek #MentalHealth #VeteranTransition #CyberSecurityCareers #GO2Health

Ep 74S02E48 | Joe Piasecki - Surfer, stockman, submariner, social procurement. One man's journey to find his personal legend.
🎙 New Episode Drop!S02E48 | Joe Piasecki - Surfer, stockman, submariner, social procurement. One man's journey to find his personal legend.In this episode, we sit down with Joe Piasecki, a Royal Australian Navy veteran who has become one of Victoria’s strongest operators in social procurement and community impact.After nearly a decade serving in submarine engineering, Joe transitioned into major infrastructure and quickly built a reputation for delivering measurable social value. At North East Link Tunnels, he led a team that achieved $55M+ in social procurement outcomes, supporting more than 70 social benefit suppliers and Aboriginal-owned businesses.Joe explains what meaningful social procurement really looks like, why disadvantaged jobseekers need more than good intentions, and how strong governance and cultural leadership can turn “requirements” into genuine community legacy.He also shares a great personal contrast — going from a 1.2 million–acre cattle station to living inside a 77-metre submarine.A grounded, practical conversation for anyone in infrastructure, procurement, ESG, workforce programs, or veteran leadership.🌐 Learn more: http://edifyconnect.com.au🌐 Join the VBC Community: veteranbc.com/join-our-community#VBC #VBCPodcast #VeteranBusinessCommunity #VeteranOwnedBusiness #SocialProcurement #Infrastructure #ESG #CommunityImpact #VeteransInConstruction #MajorProjects #AustralianVeterans