No Limitations

In Episode 156 of the No Limitations Podcast, Opportunities Don’t Come Gift-Wrapped, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jake Klein, Chair of Evolution Mining Ltd. In a necessary discussion for the future of Australia, Jake calls on political and industry leaders to articulate a clear and strategic vision, with well-thought-out policy that extends beyond the election cycle, to protect and grow our nation's core competitive advantage for the benefit of later generations. Jake also shares his professional journey and outlines the pivotal moments that took him from the Bullion Division of Macquarie Bank to navigating China’s emerging gold market at Sino Gold, before ultimately returning to Australia to create and build Evolution Mining. Finally, Jake outlines the key qualities he values in emerging leaders, highlighting the importance of proactively seizing opportunities and having the courage to make difficult decisions. Evolution Mining is Australia’s second-largest ASX

In Episode 155 of the No Limitations podcast, I Want to Do Something That Scares Me, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Cynthia Scott, Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director of Zip Co Ltd. In a spirited and insightful discussion, Cynthia offers a discerning perspective on how recent economic disruptions, though daunting, create significant growth opportunities for those daring enough to seize them. Reflecting on personal experience, Cynthia shares the defining challenges she faced as CEO at Zip Co, which were instrumental in reshaping her approach to leadership and the transformation of the company itself. She also outlines the enormous opportunities for Zip Co and its positive trajectory in American and local markets and retraces the pivotal moments that influenced her professional journey, closing with a powerful message on personal setbacks, the naysayers, and the greatest opportunities in disguise. Prior to Zip Co, Cynthia was the Chief Strategy and Business Deve

In Episode 154 of the No Limitations podcast, The Quantum Cold War, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Rob Jesudason, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founding Partner of Serendipity Capital.   In a provocative discussion, Rob warns that increasing geopolitical tensions are heightening security risks as we shift towards a multipolar world order. He emphasises that the lack of sufficient investment from governments and businesses in technologies critical to national security, could put countries at a disadvantage, leaving both their physical and technological infrastructure vulnerable. Rob also closely examines the implications of Artificial Intelligence and questions whether economies like Australia can effectively leverage its resources and implement a long-term strategy to address current challenges in productivity, tax policy and investment incentives. Finally, Rob explores the complexities of building a business from scratch, sharing candid insights and personal anecdotes of

In Episode 153 of the No Limitations podcast Phoenix From The Ashes, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with James P. Farwell, Senior Fellow at Sympodium-Institute for Strategic Communications (London).   In an absorbing discussion, James contends that the world today is adrift and in need of a course to steer. Drawing on his background as a political, corporate, communications and national security advisor, James asserts that Donald Trump has used tariffs as an instrument of “purposeful unpredictability” and as a potent negotiating tactic. Turning to China, James believes that Xi Jinping is establishing total control over the Chinese Communist Party, the government and the military, and that Vladimir Putin is seeking to follow in the footsteps of Peter the Great in making Russia a dominant hegemonic power once again. James discusses a range of other interesting topics including cybersecurity, irregular warfare, his fascination with UFOs, and his recent engagement with the

In Episode 152 of the No Limitations podcast Culture Trumps All, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Steve Sargent, Chairman of Nanosonics Ltd and Non-Executive Director of Ramsay Health Care Ltd. In a reflective yet upbeat conversation, Steve delves into the core principles which helped establish General Electric (GE) as one of the greatest leadership factories of the 21st century. He dissects the company’s performance-oriented culture, emphasising the importance of seamless operating systems as well as the power of candid communication and messaging. Steve challenges us to critically assess GE’s renowned leadership methodologies, such as Six Sigma, and whether they could still be employed by modern CEOs in today’s evolving business world. Finally, Steve offers his perspective on the broader business leadership challenges at both the Executive and Board level, and how the shifting geopolitical landscape may reshape the global economy and provide unprecedented and

In Episode 151 of the No Limitations podcast Commitment Bordering on Obsession, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with David Dicker, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Dicker Data Ltd and Founder of Rodin Cars. In a relaxed yet discerning conversation, David reflects on his unique entrepreneurial journey. He recounts the pivotal moments and tribulations that propelled Dicker Data from its humble beginnings to the nation’s largest locally owned and operated ICT distributor. David shares the guiding principles that have been fundamental to his success, offering valuable insight to his approach to business strategy, the need for standards and translating it all into a remarkable growth story. Finally, David takes the opportunity to discuss the new world, the political landscape, and what is next over the horizon. Upon finishing high school, David pursued a refrigeration mechanics apprenticeship before joining his father’s building business. In 1978, he co-founded a c

In Episode 150 of the No Limitations podcast Back to the Whiteboard, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with John Mullen, Chair of Qantas Airways Ltd, Brambles Ltd and Treasury Wine Estates Ltd.   In a topical discussion, John confronts the challenges plaguing Australian corporate Boardrooms, highlighting how these issues could undermine productivity and threaten the future growth of the nation. Drawing from his rich experience leading TNT and DHL Express, John shares his war stories and invaluable learnings, revealing the people challenges that continue to resonate in today’s corporate world. He offers a stark warning that over-regulation on ASX-listed entities is driving top talent away from public companies to the Boardrooms and management ranks of private capital. John concludes by emphasising that governance initiatives such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) should not be a mere tick-box exercise but rather something that should be strategically pursued if they add t

In Episode 149 of the No Limitations podcast Accelerate and Boom, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Michael Reid, Chief Executive Officer of Megaport Ltd.   In an illuminating discussion, Michael first expresses optimism about the future of the United States and the wider world. Turning to his current role, Michael explains the technical features behind Megaport’s services, and he provides an appraisal of a range of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, data centres, space satellites, and quantum computing. Michael sheds light on the operating culture of Megaport, to disrupt the status quo through constant innovation, and he highlights the steps taken to return the company to profitability after he became the Chief Executive Officer two years ago. Michael addresses several other interesting topics including the need to attract outstanding talent, set an ambitious vision to galvanise a team, and continuously learn from customers.   Michael started his

In Episode 148 of the No Limitations podcast The Tiger in the Room, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Lt. Col. Jahara “Franky” Matisek, Military Professor at the U.S. Naval War College.   In an erudite discussion, Franky asserts that the United States remains the chief defender of freedom, democracy and the global rules-based order, although he cautions that its political leaders have replaced diplomacy and protocol with unpredictable rhetoric. Turning to the wider world, Franky laments that Russia has become a pariah state with a depleted economy and that China is now a dominant superpower with a hegemonic outlook towards its neighbours in the Asia-Pacific region. Franky also delivers an astute assessment of the strategic significance of other nations such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iran, India, the United Kingdom, and Europe more broadly. Lastly, he shares his leadership philosophy centred around having the courage to follow your passion.      

  In Episode 147 of the No Limitations podcast Modern Day Miracle, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Ian Wishart, Chief Executive Officer of The Fred Hollows Foundation.   In a stirring discussion, Ian sheds light on the central mission of The Fred Hollows Foundation, which has helped restore sight or prevent blindness for more than 150 million people across 25 countries over the past 30 years. He reflects on his formative years in Port Moresby and how these experiences gave him purpose for helping those less fortunate. We hear of Ian’s early days as he commenced his career in the field of humanitarian aid, where he was deployed to civil war-torn Ethiopia as well as Rwanda, amidst an ongoing tragedy at that time, before dedicating his time to advancing children's rights and promoting gender equality. Ian then turns to his role as Chief Executive Officer of The Fred Hollows Foundation. He shares with us their incredible DNA, where one never accepts the impossible, and how they are bringing together

In Episode 146 of the No Limitations podcast Something is Kind of Wrong, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Matt Barrie, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Freelancer Ltd (ASX:FLN), one of the world’s largest freelancing and crowdsourcing marketplaces with more than 77 million registered users and 25 million projects.   In an illuminating discussion, Matt outlines his various businesses and how they have supported new developments in engineering, aeronautics, and computer science. Reflecting on his past experiences, he explains the drawbacks of venture capitalism compared to “bootstrapping” a business, the strategic value of being late to market, and how advancements in artificial intelligence will significantly change approaches to customer engagement and daily operations. He also highlights the importance of fostering high-performing teams dedicated to delivering life-changing work. Finally, Matt discusses how despite a restrictive regulatory environment, Australia produces good business ope

In Episode 145 of the No Limitations podcast A Personal Perspective, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Christine McLoughlin AM, Chairman of Suncorp Group Ltd.   In a relaxed discussion, Christine provides an insightful perspective into the insurance and superannuation industries in Australia today but expresses frustration with the lack of equal gender representation on Boards and Executive Teams more broadly. Christine discusses her significant work in the sporting sector through the Minerva Network, alongside other high profile women such as current Governor-General Her Excellency The Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, and she emphasises the importance of sport as the “glue” that binds local communities together. Christine also laments the recent tendency for companies to take public positions on social or political issues as part of corporate branding and, in relation to the economy, she asserts the need to address housing affordability, inequality and access to necessary technology. Lastly, Christine p

In Episode 144 of the No Limitations podcast, A Divided Nation Decides, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Stephen Loosley AM, a former Senator for New South Wales.   In a 2024 United States Presidential election special, Stephen evaluates whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris is best prepared to lead the free world for the next four years. He delivers a verdict on which candidate will claim the battleground states and asserts that the economy and reproductive rights will be the most important issues. Recognising that the world is at a critical juncture with rapidly escalating conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine as well as rising tensions in the South China Sea, Stephen believes that the decision made at the ballot box in early November will be as important as ever for America, the West, the democratic free world, and the international balance of power.   Stephen was elected as a Senator for New South Wales in the 1990 federal election where he served in the Hawke and Keating governments and c

In Episode 143 of the No Limitations podcast The Valley of Death, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Dr Larry Marshall, Non-Executive Director of Fortescue Ltd and Nanosonics Ltd.   In a spirited discussion, Larry scrutinises Australia’s innovation dilemma, where despite the nation’s level of invention and scientific excellence, it is significantly behind in terms of commanding recognition on the global stage. He highlights the potential of capitalising on Australia’s resources to create a market vision to drive further economic growth. Larry also reflects on his time leading CSIRO, where he challenged the norm in the hundred-year-old organisation and delivered its first period of growth in three decades. He shares with us the essentials in catalysing success and the courage required as a leader in the face of failure. Finally, Larry reminds us of the importance of diversity, as different thoughts and perspectives will ultimately drive future innovation in Australia.   Larry Marshall is currently

In Episode 142 of the No Limitations podcast The Dirty Deal, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Dr Adi Paterson, Founder and Principal of Siyeva Consulting. Adi was formerly Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Australia’s nuclear centre of excellence.   As we head into a critical juncture in Australia’s energy future debate, Adi joins us again to challenge our thinking around the game-changing opportunity for nuclear power in Australia. He highlights the enormous potential for small modular reactors, which can provide reliable energy that can transform regional Australia, lead to the creation of new markets, and accelerate the country’s growth. Adi also provides an assessment of where the nation currently stands in terms of renewables and warns us of the potential implications it may have not only on business and the broader economy, but also for the everyday Australian if we continue down the current trajectory. Finally, Adi stresses the

In Episode 141 of the No Limitations podcast No Passengers on Boards, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Jim Askew, Chairman of Syrah Resources Ltd and Robex Resources Inc. Having held senior leadership roles in public mining companies listed in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, New Zealand and Australia with assets on all major continents, Jim shares his perspective on the state of the ever-changing global mining industry, highlighting the enormous opportunities present in Africa where the development of vital infrastructure has paved the way for growth. He also touches on the critical minerals sector and the emerging trends in the electric vehicle and battery markets. Turning to Australia, Jim brings to the fore the challenges of pursuing further growth in what is becoming an increasingly competitive international market and how to address the disconnect across an array of stakeholders from governments to corporates, to traditional owners and all Australians. Finally, Jim

In Episode 140 of the No Limitations podcast Don’t Jump to Conclusions, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Coby Hanoch, Chief Executive Officer of Israel-based semiconductor IP company Weebit Nano Ltd. In an open discussion, Coby provides an overview of the global infrastructure of the rapidly growing, multi-trillion-dollar semiconductor industry, Weebit Nano’s opportunity as a differentiator as well as insight into leading players in the market including the United States, Taiwan and South Korea. As a company based in Israel, he offers insight into how historical conflict and limited natural resources have shaped the country’s culture of resilience, creativity and entrepreneurship. Coby emphasises the importance of persisting through failure and shares his leadership philosophy to building high-performing teams in particularly challenging times and circumstances. Finally, Coby gives his frank assessment on Australia’s regulatory environment particularly for listed companies and how this presents a

In Episode 139 of the No Limitations podcast Last Man Standing, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Col. Douglas Macgregor (ret.), Former Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Defense.   In a thought-provoking discussion, which will no doubt generate significant debate, Douglas provides a commentary on the state of leadership in the wider world today. He turns to the major flashpoints across the globe, and he assesses the rapidly escalating conflict between Israel and other parties in the Middle East and the Russian war with Ukraine, sharing his perspective as someone who has endured the horrors and futility of war. Douglas also evaluates the likelihood of an act of aggression by China against its immediate neighbours such as Taiwan in the South China Sea. Returning to the United States, Douglas emphasises the need for cultural unity and the successful assimilation of new waves of immigration into mainstream society. He also touches on the need to act decisively to reduce the burgeoning government debt

In Episode 138 of the No Limitations podcast The Reckoning, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Adrian Turner, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ExoFlare.  In an absorbing discussion, Adrian asserts that Australia’s leadership needs to create a stronger sense of national purpose and ambition. He emphasises the need to develop new industries while boosting economic output, employment, and productivity, and to maintain our way of life and economic security in the face of massive change and uncertainty. Drawing on his Silicon Valley experience, Adrian implores aspiring entrepreneurs to become product experts, like Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos, who can master complexity with ease. Adrian speaks in detail about the biosecurity mission of ExoFlare and the role it aims to play in the $10 trillion global food industry. Lastly, Adrian encourages the next generation of business and political leaders to cast off the inertia and inaction of the previous decades and to strive for greater achievement, en

In Episode 137 of the No Limitations podcast Flight to Gold, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Olympic Gold Medalist Steve Hooker OAM, Founder and Director of iHi Projects.  In this relaxed discussion, Steve takes us behind the scenes of the Olympic Games, uncovering the magic, myths and mastery behind the sporting spectacle. He reveals what it truly takes to deliver on a world stage, as he describes the “pressure cooker” of Beijing's Bird's Nest and the moment he clinched gold amidst an 80,000-strong crowd. Steve discusses his journey beyond the track, where he has taken significant strides in the corporate arena, bridging the gap between sports and business while championing community building and sustainable impact. Through it all, Steve discusses the importance of “having a crack” and provides his insights on the standout stars to watch in the Paris Olympic Games. Steve remains one of only a handful of athletes to hold Olympic, World Championship, IAAF World Indoor Championship and IAAF Cont