No Limitations

In Episode 117 of the No Limitations podcast Knowing Your Own Mind, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to the 28th Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon Tony Abbott AC. He was the Member for Warringah in the Australian Parliament from 1994 to 2019. In an open conversation, we unpack Tony’s thoughts on the current state of Australia, its leadership and standing on the world stage. Considering where he sees society heading from the debate in Australia leading up to the referendum and the cost-of-living crisis to the ongoing conflicts overseas and shifts in the power balance, we discuss his concerns for the country and the world at large. Finally, we uncover his thoughts on leadership and how it starts with one’s self. Tony served as Prime Minister for two years following the 2013 Australian federal election. He was the Leader of the Opposition from 2009 to 2013 and also served as a Cabinet Minister during the Howard Government. Currently, Tony is a Director of the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation,

In Episode 116 of the No Limitations podcast Leadership Is a Gift, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Alan Beacham, Managing Director of Toll Group, one the largest logistics, transportation and warehousing businesses worldwide. Toll Group was established in Newcastle, Australia in 1888, now has headquarters in Singapore and is expanding throughout the Asia-Pacific region. In an insightful discussion, Alan presents his views on the current geopolitical landscape, especially between China and the United States, and how Toll can best position itself to succeed for another 134 years. He also shares his perspective on cutting-edge innovation in his industry, such as hydrogen trucks, drones in logistics, artificial intelligence and supply chain developments. Finally, Alan reflects on the nature of leadership and cites the importance of inclusion, kindness and responsibility. Alan was appointed Managing Director of Toll Group last year, having previously overseen Global Forwarding, Global Express and E

In Episode 115 of the No Limitations podcast The Spy Who Didn’t Come Home, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jack Barksy, a former agent of the KGB, the foreign intelligence and domestic security agency of the Soviet Union. In a fascinating and revealing discussion, Jack shows us both sides of the Iron Curtain as we delve into the world of espionage. We uncover his story from his beginnings as a high-achieving student recruited by the KGB through the East German Stasi, trained in Moscow and eventually inserted into the United States. We hear of his missions, the near misses that risked blowing his cover and the lead up to his fateful encounter with the FBI. Originally from East Germany, Jack was recruited by the KGB as a university student and later infiltrated the United States where he spent ten years spying for the Soviet Union. He severed his relationship with the KGB in 1988 and pursued a corporate career in information technology. He was eventually discovered by the FBI. Today, Jack is an

In Episode 114 of the No Limitations podcast The Divine Discontent, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with David Kirk MBE, Co-Founder and Chairman of Bailador Technology Investments and a former Captain of the New Zealand All Blacks. David led the All Blacks to victory in the first Rugby World Cup in 1987. Having gone through a unique journey that has seen him study medicine, lead his country to a world championship, abruptly retire and take up a Rhodes Scholarship, David talks to us about leadership in its varied manifestations as well as the zeal in seeking perfection. Drawing on a wealth of knowledge and experience across sport, politics and business in a multitude of industries, David examines the state of affairs and offers valuable insight into the pertinent matters facing society today. David represented New Zealand in rugby union, having played 17 Tests and served as the side’s Captain on 11 occasions. He is also currently Chairman of Forsyth Barr and KMD Brands as well as not-for-profits Kiw

In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast For the Butcher, the Baker, the Candlestick Maker, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Joseph Healy, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Judo Bank, Australia’s only challenger bank purpose-built for small and medium businesses. Driven by an unwavering resolve to challenge long-established norms, Joseph takes us across Judo Bank’s fascinating journey, from the 87 meetings around the world four times over to an eleventh-hour surprise that threatened to get the bank up and running. He shares with us Judo Bank’s unique approach to banking for small and medium-sized enterprises, the backbone of the Australian economy, and the importance of culture in building and scaling a challenger bank. Joseph is a career international banker, having held executive positions at NAB, ANZ, CIBC World Markets, Citibank and Lloyds Bank prior to co-founding Judo Bank in 2016. He was previously Group Executive, Business Banking at NAB and before that was Managing Dir

In Episode 112 of the No Limitations podcast Innovation: A Necessity, Not an Option, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Ian Bailey, Managing Director of Kmart Group. Kmart Group is comprised of Kmart and Target, with over 450 stores across Australia and New Zealand, employing nearly 50,000 team members with annual revenues of close to 10 billion dollars. Leading one of the most well-known and trusted brands in Australia and New Zealand, Ian takes us through the evolution of Kmart from a traditional discount store to embracing an innovative, modern, hybrid retail model. He shares with us the care and attention it takes to put the customer at the forefront of their mission to accelerate growth and remove all unnecessary costs. Finally, Ian touches on the next retail revolution in today’s digital world as well as potential growth possibilities in international markets. Prior to his appointment in 2018, Ian held various roles at Kmart Australia including Managing Director, Chief Operating Officer and C

In Episode 111 of the No Limitations Podcast Rolling the Dice, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Matt Allen, Co-Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Tractor Ventures, a non-bank lender focused on technology startups. In a lively discussion, Matt shares with us the unique proposition of Tractor Ventures. Unfazed by the appeal of launching rockets, Matt and the team at Tractor Ventures focus on consistency, reliability and giving founders the optionality to scale. He touches on the excitement that comes with the unknown when it comes to investing in game-changing technologies as well as the evolving role of founders in the startup ecosystem. Finally, Matt and Greg discuss the challenges and opportunities for startups in the current environment and what can be done to help build Australia's standing in the global technology landscape. Prior to founding Tractor Ventures in 2020, Matt was part of the venture capital and startup team at Amazon Web Services and previously held Chief Technology Offic

In Episode 110 of the No Limitations Podcast Ants and Elephants, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Cameron McIntyre, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of carsales.com Ltd. carsales is an ASX 100 business and global leader in digital marketplaces across Australia, Asia and The Americas, with over 1,700 team members. With a vision to create #1 digital marketplaces for vehicles around the world, Cameron shares how carsales are taking the lead to remain at the forefront of the industry, going from a founder-led startup to a global business, while continuing to evolve with the digital economy to make buying and selling a great experience for their customers. He touches on how carsales is utilising new technologies to further enhance the customer experience, the new markets for electric vehicles and connected cars, and how they’re helping develop an ecosystem for a future-facing workforce. Prior to his appointment in 2017, Cameron held various positions at carsales, including Chief Operating

In Episode 109 of the No Limitations podcast The Fear of Going Into the Unknown, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Deanne Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of Aware Super, one of Australia’s leading superannuation funds with over 1.2 million members and $155bn in funds under management. Driven by the aim to help their members achieve the retirement they want and deserve while supporting the communities in which they live, work and retire, Deanne shares with us what’s on the mind of an industry fund leader in 2023. Greg and Deanne discuss the challenges and opportunities in Australia’s unique system, adapting to the ever-changing social landscape and some of the most exciting technological changes Australia’s superannuation industry is about to witness. Deanne also serves as a Director of the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia, the Australian Council of Superannuation Investors and non-profit organisation Redkite. She was previously Chief Executive Officer of MetLife Australia and befo

In Episode 108 of the No Limitations podcast The Forces of Nature, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Michael Batko, Chief Executive Officer of Startmate. In today’s discussion, Michael welcomes us to the epicentre for startup ambition across Australia and New Zealand, where they work closely with founders, mentors, angel investors and venture funds. He shares with us the common denominator in the successful startups they’ve supported and the overwhelming power of the community pervading through this unique ecosystem. He also touches on the challenges facing founders and why it takes a force of nature to change the game. Startmate have invested in over 190 startups with a collective portfolio value of $2bn. Prior to his current role, Michael was Head of Operations of Startmate and before that was involved in a number of startups, such as Expert360 and Mad Paws.   Please note: this episode was recorded on 1 February 2023.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 107 of the No Limitations podcast “Across the Waves,” Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Grant Blackley, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Southern Cross Media Group Ltd, which owns over 99 stations across FM, AM and DAB+ radio under the Triple M and Hit network brands, broadcasts 93 free-to-air TV signals across regional Australia, and operates LiSTNR, Australia’s free audio destination for consumers housing radio, podcasts, music and news. Against the backdrop of an ever-changing media landscape, Grant shares with us his mantra of innovation and the willingness to take risk in an unforgiving market to those who stand still. We get a glimpse into the future of audio and broader media – the challenges and opportunities locally and internationally. Finally, he opens our ears and lets us into the “House of LiSTNR” as they change the way consumers engage with a variety of digital audio content, tailored for an audience of one. With over 35 years in the media and entertainment

In Episode 106 of the No Limitations podcast “To Dare and Endure”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Brian Hartzer, Chairman and Co-Founder of specialty lender 2Be and former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Westpac Banking Corporation. In a candid and insightful conversation, Brian shares with us the five Cs of building engagement as a leader and some personal insights into the pressure moments and testing times for decision makers. Greg and Brian also discuss the Australian banking sector, the broader economic landscape and the opportunities ahead. Brian is also Chairman of ASX-listed salary advance business Beforepay, AI-based HR technology startup Reejig, and the Australian Museum Foundation. He has previously served as Chairman of Save the Children Australia, Director of the Financial Markets Foundation for Children, and Chair of the Business Advisory Committee of the Australian National University. Brian was Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Westpac Banking Cor

In Episode 105 of the No Limitations podcast “Leadership Is a Contact Sport”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Michael Schneider, Managing Director of Bunnings Group Ltd, the leading retailer of home improvement and lifestyle products in Australia and New Zealand as well as a major supplier to project builders, commercial tradespeople and the housing industry.   In this episode, Michael underscores the heart and soul of a business – the magic of the team. Leading over 53,000 team members with a network of over 500 locations, Michael shares with us how he continues to preserve and enhance the unique Bunnings culture, which not only plays such a vital role in the organisation’s success but also in supporting the communities in which it operates. He also shares with us what’s in store for retail as we witness the continued evolution of the industry as well as the next normal for Australia’s workforce.   Prior to joining Bunnings in 2005, Michael had a diverse career across retail and financial servi

In Episode 104 of the No Limitations podcast “Taking Flight”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Rachael Neumann and Kylie Frazer, Founding Partners of early-stage venture capital firm Flying Fox Ventures. Challenging the traditional venture capital model to help more people take their first steps into angel investing, Rachael and Kylie share with us the intricacies of how it takes a village to raise a startup. We also hear about the challenges facing founders and other players in the ecosystems and how they see potential in the many entrepreneurs they work closely with. Rachael and Kylie have been across many parts of the startup ecosystem leading to the establishment of Flying Fox Ventures. Rachael was previously Head of Startups for Amazon Web Services in Australia and New Zealand and was Managing Director of Eventbrite in Australia and New Zealand. She is also on the Council of Trustees of the National Gallery of Victoria. Kylie brings over 20 years of experience as a corporate transactions law

In Episode 103 of the No Limitations podcast “A Period of Great Change”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Scott Wyatt, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of leading energy company Viva Energy Group Ltd, which supplies about a quarter of Australia’s fuel requirements. With change occurring on a multitude of fronts, Scott and Viva Energy are uniquely positioned, catering to Australia’s energy needs now and well into the future. Scott shares with us not only Viva Energy’s rich 120-year history but also how they are positioning themselves for the new environment, as we embark on a monumental transition that will change the way we live. Having led Viva Energy in the last eight years as well as teams across the world, he casts a light on the pivotal role leadership plays in navigating uncertainty, inspiring new ideas and setting a clear direction. Following a long career with Shell in New Zealand, Australia and Singapore, Scott was appointed CEO of Viva Energy Australia in 2014. He is a Dire

In Episode 102 of the No Limitations podcast “Don’t Look at the Scoreboard”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Nick Farr-Jones AM, Director of Taurus Funds Management and a former Captain of the Australia National Rugby Union Team. Nick led the Wallabies to Australia’s first Rugby World Cup title in 1991. In an illuminating and at times very personal conversation, we are treated to some rare insight into the crucial moments on and off the field that led to the Wallabies’ success in their 1991 Rugby World Cup campaign. Nick shares with us the core principles of leadership and the elements at play, from disappointment to the path forward, from the preparation and discipline to the essence of teamwork, and from the pressure on the big stage to the confidence and calmness in achieving victory. Nick represented Australia in rugby union, having played 63 Tests after his debut in 1984. He was later appointed Captain in 1988 and led Australia in 36 Tests. Prior to his current role, he worked at French inv

In Episode 101 of the No Limitations podcast, “Leadership: A Choice and a Privilege”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Sarah Hunter, Managing Director of Officeworks, an every-channel retailer supporting Australians to work, learn, create and connect. It has 167 stores, a website home to 40,000 products and over 9,000 team members. In a spirited discussion, Sarah brings to life the importance of leadership, sharing personal experiences across Australia and the United Kingdom, having to adapt and thrive in different industries from professional services, sport, banking, airports and the fast-paced arena of retail. She touches on the attitude to not only achieve but to also unlock potential as a leader. Finally, Sarah reminds us of the significance of not losing sight of one’s purpose, priorities and what really matters. Prior to joining Officeworks in 2019, Sarah was the Demerger Program Director at Coles, overseeing the successful implementation of the demerger of the business from Wesfarmers in

In the 100th episode of the No Limitations podcast “Stepping In and Stepping Up”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Cathy O’Connor, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of oOh!media Ltd. In an enthralling conversation on the essence of contemporary leadership, Cathy shares with us her story from her early days in radio to being at the helm of and transforming Nova Entertainment into a multi-platform business. Now as the leader of a pioneering media company with a purpose to make public spaces better, we gain insight into the synthesis of a collective contribution, the meaning of “one size fits none,” and how oOh!media are playing an integral role in communities in informing, entertaining and inspiring citizens from all walks of life. Prior to oOh!media, Cathy was Chief Executive Officer of leading audio company Nova Entertainment for twelve years. She also held management roles at Austereo after starting her career in advertising sales at radio stations 2SM and 2GB. Cathy is also a Govern

In the Episode 99 of the No Limitations podcast “Character Is Everything”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Jim Penman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Jim’s Group, Australia’s largest franchising family with over 4,800 franchisees across over 52 divisions.   In a forthright and revealing conversation, Jim shares with us his remarkable story of entrepreneurship and fanatical drive in never accepting the status quo with focus on continuous improvement and raising the bar across all facets of life – accountability for oneself, the need for greater community engagement and the advancement of society. He discusses his personal ambitions, the best advice he received for business, the state of the economy and puts forward some candid observations regarding political leadership, digital currencies and what we could be looking forward to in the future, particularly the way we live and how long.   Jim initially launched a full-time mowing business in 1982. In 1989, he franchised his business, and s

In Episode 98 of the No Limitations podcast “Best Effort, Right Attitude”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Anthony Boyd, Chief Executive Officer of Frasers Property Australia, one of Australia’s leading diversified property groups.Anthony shares with us the highlights and learnings from a career that has seen him start as a young man balancing work and rugby to now at the helm of a leading property group with a rich heritage going back almost a hundred years. We hear of the way forward and how they continue to set the standard for outcomes for innovation, the community and sustainability. Finally, Anthony gives us insight into high performance and leadership: the human connection, inspiring passion in others and the mindset to achieve.Anthony initially joined Frasers Property Australia in 2005; he progressed through senior leadership roles and was Chief Financial Officer prior to his appointment as CEO. He also represents Frasers Property on the Property Council of Australia’s Corporate Leaders