Podcast
Coast & Commerce
Hosted by Innovate Media · EN
The Coast and Commerce Podcast celebrates business success stories from across the Sunshine Coast and beyond.
Hosted by Ben Amos, Creative Director at Innovate Media, each episode will feature a value-packed interview with an innovative business leader to uncover their unique story, and importantly what we can all learn from their journey starting, and scaling their business.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
A Step-by-Step Guide for Business Founders
Oct 2000:16:03Tap to summarizeIn the last episode of the Forward Thinking podcast special season, host Ben Amos interviews Peter Deans, founder of Goru World and author of the Startup Toolkit. They discuss the importance of supporting startups, the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, and the innovative ecosystem on the Sunshine Coast. Peter shares insights from his extensive experience in finance and consulting, emphasising the need for market research and practical tools for aspiring business owners. The conversation highlights the significance of in-person events like FWD Fest in fostering collaboration and innovation.TakeawaysPeter Deans emphasises the importance of supporting startups.The Startup Toolkit provides practical guidance for entrepreneurs.Market research is crucial to determine if a product is needed.Cash flow management is essential for startup success.In-person events foster collaboration and innovation.The Sunshine Coast has a vibrant startup ecosystem.Goru World aims to unleash potential in young entrepreneurs.Peter's background in finance informs his approach to startups.The book includes a glossary to demystify business terminology.Networking and community engagement are vital for business growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to FWD Fest 202501:24 Peter Deans and Goru World03:39 The Startup Toolkit Overview06:59 The Importance of a Structured Guide11:03 Key Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs12:27 Conclusion and Future of Forward FestClick here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-08
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The Tech-Enabled Future of Health & Wellness
Oct 1300:15:51Tap to summarizeIn the 7th episode of the Forward Thinking podcast, Ben Amos interviews Owen Bowling, co-founder and CEO of Coach Welly, a health technology platform. Owen shares his journey in the fitness industry, the evolution of Coach Welly, and the importance of community and collaboration in the entrepreneurial ecosystem on the Sunshine Coast. He discusses the challenges of differentiating in a competitive market and his vision for enhancing health and wellbeing opportunities for government employees. The conversation emphasises the significance of in-person events and networking for startup success.TakeawaysOwen Bowling exemplifies the spirit of a successful startup founder.Coach Welly aims to bridge the gap in health improvement.The platform connects various aspects of user wellbeing.B2B strategy is key to Coach Welly's market approach.The wellness app market is highly competitive.Government employees often lack health and wellbeing support.Collaboration is crucial for startup growth.In-person events enhance networking opportunities.The Sunshine Coast has potential for entrepreneurial growth.Access to early-stage capital remains a challenge.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Owen Bowling and Coach Welly02:50 The Evolution of Coach Welly05:35 Market Strategy and Differentiation08:45 The Role of Ecosystem in Startup Success11:41 Vision for the Sunshine Coast's Entrepreneurial FutureClick here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-07
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Nurturing the Creative Economy by Collaborating
Oct 600:15:25Tap to summarizeIn today’s episode of the Forward Thinking Podcast, Ben Amos interviewed Liz Boyd from the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective live at FWDFest 2025 to discuss the growth and development of the film and screen industry on the Sunshine Coast. They explore the role of the Screen Collective in fostering collaboration among filmmakers, the economic impact of the screen industry on the greater local community, and the opportunities available for not just aspiring filmmakers. The conversation highlights the importance of networking and collaboration at events like FWDFest, and provides information on how to get involved in the screen industry.TakeawaysThe Sunshine Coast Screen Collective is fostering the local screen industry.Collaboration is key to the growth of the film industry.There are various branches within the Screen Collective, including Showdown and Film Sunshine Coast.The industry is evolving, allowing local talent to stay in the region.Training programs are being developed to support aspiring filmmakers.The economic impact of the screen industry extends beyond just filmmakers.Networking events like Forward Fest are crucial for industry connections.Opportunities exist for various roles beyond just creative positions in film.The Screen Collective provides resources and support for filmmakers.Community engagement is essential for the growth of the screen industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective01:22 The Role of the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective04:57 Growing the Film Industry on the Sunshine Coast07:19 Economic Impact of the Screen Industry09:08 Networking and Collaboration at Forward Fest10:34 Opportunities for Aspiring Filmmakers13:10 Connecting with the Screen CollectiveClick here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-06
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Safeguarding & Streamlining Your Business Operations
Sep 2900:24:58Tap to summarizeThis episode of the Forward Thinking Podcast features interviews with Jared Cunningham from Ravinn, a cybersecurity company, and Zach Cole from PicSEO.ai, an innovative image optimisation tool. Hosted by Ben Amos, the conversation explores the importance of cybersecurity for businesses of all sizes, the challenges of scaling a tech startup, and the value of networking and collaboration within the entrepreneurial community. Both guests share their journeys, insights, and the impact of events like the Sunshine Coast’s FWDFest on their businesses.TakeawaysCybersecurity is essential for businesses of all sizes.Small businesses are often targeted by low-level hackers.Networking and collaboration can significantly aid business growth.Understanding your core values is crucial for sustainable success.AI can streamline processes and enhance productivity.Events like FWDFest foster valuable connections and insights.Entrepreneurship can be isolating, but community support is vital.Innovative tools can simplify complex tasks for business owners.Scaling a business requires a solid foundation and strategic planning.Continuous learning from industry peers is beneficial for growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and Innovation04:05 Jared Cunningham's Journey with Ravinn.com09:20 The Importance of Networking and Collaboration13:03 Zach Cole and the Launch of PicSEO.ai20:26 Navigating the Fast-Paced AI LandscapeClick here for more - https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-05
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Building a Values-Driven Business
Sep 2200:27:43Tap to summarizeIn this fourth episode of the Forward Thinking Podcast, Ben Amos chats with two inspiring entrepreneurs at Forward Fest 2025: Pam McLean and Chandni Arora, who share their journeys of building businesses rooted in passion and values. Pam discusses her experience in the childcare industry and how she focuses on creating a nurturing environment for children and staff alike. Chandni shares her transition from a corporate career to coaching women, emphasising the importance of support and empowerment. Both guests highlight the significance of community, innovation, and personal growth in their respective fields.TakeawaysPassion is the foundation of successful entrepreneurship.Building a business is about creating a legacy, not just profit.A values-based approach leads to better outcomes for all stakeholders.Investing in people creates a positive ripple effect in business.Challenges can be opportunities for growth and innovation.Empowering women through coaching can lead to transformative changes.Community support is vital for small businesses to thrive.AI and technology can enhance business efficiency and reach.Accountability is key to achieving personal and professional goals.It's essential to enjoy what you do to avoid burnout.Chapters00:00 Passion-Driven Entrepreneurship11:42 Building a Values-Based Business23:34 Navigating Challenges in Childcare27:12 Empowering Women Through CoachingClick here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-04
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Reinventing Traditional Industries with Innovation
Sep 1400:22:06Tap to summarizeEpisode three of the Forward Thinking Podcast features two innovative founders, Chris Risby from STAT and Tama Jamieson from Dyna, who are disrupting traditional industries in healthcare and hospitality respectively. Chris discusses how STAT aims to create a sustainable healthcare model through a digital platform that connects practitioners and organisations, while Tama shares his journey in creating Dyna, a marketplace that enhances the dining experience by connecting businesses and consumers seamlessly. Both founders emphasise the importance of community support, hard work, and the entrepreneurial spirit in driving innovation.TakeawaysSTAT is a digital platform for healthcare practitioners.Chris Risby aims to solve financial sustainability in healthcare.Dyna connects businesses and consumers in hospitality.Tama Jamieson emphasises the importance of transparency in reviews.Community support is crucial for startup success.Both founders highlight the need for hard work and dedication.Innovation can disrupt traditional industries effectively.Networking at events like FWD Fest is invaluable.Timing is critical in launching new products.Surrounding yourself with supportive people is essential. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Forward Fest 202500:57 Innovating Healthcare with STAT08:59 Transforming Hospitality with Dyna appClick here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-03
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Youth & Innovation: From Classroom to Commerce from FWD Fest
Sep 700:14:19Tap to summarizeIn episode two of the Forward Thinking Podcast, hosts Ben Amos and Craig Jussick engage with three young entrepreneurs from Glasshouse Christian College who were part of the DeLorean Project there. They discuss their startup app, Room Readi, which aims to enhance the customers shopping experience. The conversation highlights their journey via FWD Fest, key learnings, and the importance of mentorship and feedback in entrepreneurship. The young founders share valuable advice for aspiring innovators, emphasising that age should not be a barrier to pursuing business ideas.TakeawaysThe DeLorean Project fosters innovation among students.Room Readi addresses common issues in shopping experiences.Feedback is crucial for evolving business ideas.Networking at events like FWD Fest is invaluable.Young entrepreneurs can make a significant impact.Don't let age deter you from pursuing your ideas.Criticism can be a powerful learning tool.Understanding your audience is key to effective pitching.The entrepreneurial journey is filled with learning opportunities.Passion and enthusiasm can drive success. Chapters00:00 Introduction to FWD Fest 202500:51 Meet the Young Entrepreneurs01:48 The Birth of Room Readi03:44 Insights from the DeLorean Project05:57 Key Learnings from the Entrepreneurial Journey09:58 Advice for Young Innovators11:51 Connecting with Room Readi12:47 Conclusion and InspirationClick here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-02
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Addressing Global Challenges Locally from FWD Fest
Sep 100:24:17Tap to summarizeForward Thinking is a Coast and Commerce Podcast special series of eight episodes featuring live interviews from Forward Fest 2025. Episode 1 highlights two innovative businesses: Aqua Ubique and Moyai. Aqua Ubique focuses on generating drinking water from air, addressing the issue of water scarcity in Australia. The founder, Shannon Lemanski, shares how FWD Fest has been pivotal in his entrepreneurial journey, providing networking opportunities and community support. Moyai, founded by Ilana Morrow, aims to create an inclusive world for people with disabilities by connecting them with businesses and government resources. The conversation emphasises the importance of community, innovation, and social impact in driving business success.TakeawaysAqua Ubique generates drinking water from air, addressing water scarcity.Over 2 million Australians lack access to safe drinking water.Community support is crucial for entrepreneurial success.Moai connects people with disabilities to businesses and government.The importance of networking and collaboration in startups.Aqua Ubique's mission is to provide 300 million litres of water by 2032.Moyai evolved from an index to a solution-focused business.Accessibility is a key focus for businesses to attract more customers.The entrepreneurial ecosystem on the Sunshine Coast fosters innovation.Both businesses highlight the impact of local initiatives on global challenges.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Forward Thinking podcast series00:54 Aqua Ubique: Water from Air06:00 The Impact of Business Community and Collaboration11:30 Motivation for Aspiring Entrepreneurs13:34 Introduction to Moyai: Building for All Bodies18:01 The Evolution of Moyai22:19 Future Plans for MoyaiVisit to know more - https://innovatemedia.com.au/FWD25-01
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(SPECIAL SERIES TEASER) FWD Thinking: Sunshine Coast Innovation Stories from FWD Fest 2025
Aug 2700:00:33Tap to summarizeNEW COAST & COMMERCE PODCAST special series drops weekly from this Tues 1 Sept... Hosted by Ben Amos and produced by Craig JosicINTRODUCING:>>> FWD Thinking: Innovation Stories from FWD Fest 2025, featuring Sunshine Coast Businesses Making a Global Impact. Subscribe and follow us to catch all 8 episodes on your preferred podcast player.
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Innovating in HealthTech: Startup Lessons from the Sunshine Coast with Brad Chesham
Mar 30, 202500:41:28Tap to summarizeIn Episode 8, the last of Coast and Commerce Season 4, Ben Amos chats with Brad Chesham, founder of Bundle of Rays, about the transformative potential of immersive learning technologies of XR, AR, and VR in healthcare education. Brad shares his journey from nursing to entrepreneurship, the challenges of innovating in a conservative industry, dealing with entrepreneurial sacrifices and the importance of building a community of early adopters to champion emerging technologies. He emphasises the need for a shift in how medical education is delivered and the role of disruptive innovators in driving change within Australian healthcare systems.TakeawaysImmersive learning can revolutionize medical education.The transition from traditional teaching to XR is challenging but necessary.Healthcare innovation faces significant institutional inertia.Building a sustainable business model is crucial for startups.Mental health and work-life balance are critical for entrepreneurs.Community support is vital for startup success.The future of nursing education will involve objective skill assessments.Disruptors play a key role in challenging the status quo.Collaboration between academia and industry is essential for innovation.Adopters of new technologies can help drive change in healthcare.Chapters00:00 The Power of Immersive Learning05:59 Transforming Medical Education12:02 Challenges in Healthcare Innovation17:48 The Journey of a Startup Founder24:02 Scaling Up: New Opportunities and Challenges30:00 The Future of XR in Healthcare36:02 Disruption and Institutional Inertia41:12 Building a Community of PracticeClick here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S4-8
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