
Hosted by Mornington Peninsula Business · EN
Welcome to the Local Business Sessions, where we invite business owners and operators from across the Mornington Peninsula to dive into strategies for overcoming challenges and leveraging strengths. From marketing insights and customer retention, to operational tips and being an employer of choice, we cover it all.
They discuss challenges, success stories, marketing tactics, collaboration, networking, and more.

What does it really take to stop discounting yourself and start charging what you’re truly worth?In this episode of the The Local Business Sessions Podcast, Shannon Smit sits down with Andrew Griffiths, Australia’s #1 small business author and one of the most respected voices in business and personal growth. With over four decades of entrepreneurial experience and fourteen bestselling books sold in more than sixty‑five countries, Andrew brings a rare mix of street‑smart insight, lived experience and powerful storytelling. From his early journey as an orphan navigating survival, to becoming a global authority on future‑proofing businesses, Andrew shares the lessons that have shaped his work, his writing, and his belief that business is always personal. Andrew is also a keynote speaker at the B.I.T.E. Business Conference 2026, where he will take the stage with his powerful message: “Someone has to be the most expensive – why not make it you?” In this conversation, Andrew and Shannon explore why so many small businesses undervalue themselves, how pricing is deeply connected to confidence and identity, and why being the cheapest option is one of the biggest risks in today’s business environment. This episode is essential listening for business owners who want to rethink their value, reinvent how they position themselves, and reignite sustainable growth. Want to watch on YouTube? Click here: https://youtu.be/FYmVoG0GxM0See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if time wasn’t your biggest constraint – but your biggest opportunity? In this episode of The Local Business Sessions, we are joined by Kate Christie, internationally recognised time management expert, keynote speaker, and bestselling author. Kate has spent more than two decades helping business owners, leaders and teams take control of their time, energy and priorities. As the founder of Time Stylers, Kate works with organisations across Australia and internationally to improve productivity, performance and decision‑making in fast‑paced, high‑pressure environments. Kate is also a keynote speaker at the B.I.T.E. Business Conference 2026, where she’ll be presenting on how to find, protect and invest time to create your greatest life – both professionally and personally. In this conversation, Kate and Sophie Jackson unpack why so many business owners feel time‑poor, how productivity myths are holding leaders back, and what it really takes to design a workday that supports focus, impact and sustainable growth. This episode is essential listening for business owners who want to rethink how they use time, reinvent their approach to productivity, and reignite control over their work and life.Want to watch on YouTube? Click here: https://youtu.be/aAsoiFK9fucSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connected Communities is your go-to resource for small businesses that want to thrive by engaging meaningfully with their local community. Each episode features award-winning businesses sharing practical strategies, proven approaches, and inspiring stories that show how community connection isn’t just good for people, it’s soundbusiness practice. Learn how to strengthen relationships, boost loyalty, and create lasting impact while growing your business.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us as we talk with award-winning local businesses proving that inclusion isn’t justthe right thing to do, it’s a smart business move. Discover actionable tips, inspiringstories, and best practices for making your business accessible and welcoming to all.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Experience Matters is your go-to resource for small businesses that want to thrive byputting customers first. Each episode features award-winning local businesses sharing practical insights, proven strategies, and real-world examples of how great customer experiences drive loyalty, growth, and long-term success. Learn how to make customer experience not just a value, but a sound business practice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us as we talk with award-winning local businesses proving that sustainability isn’t justgood for the environment, it’s good for business. Discover practical tips, real-world successstories, and strategies to future-proof your small business while making a positive impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this inspiring episode of The Small Business Festival Wrap-Up, we spotlight social enterprises and their transformative role in creating positive change. Xanthe Rivett, from the Frankston Social Enterprise & Innovation Hub, joins us to share insights into how this initiative supports businesses dedicated to social and environmental impact. Joining her are Sam Keck and Sam Hearn, Directors of Mornington’s thriving HomeGround Café. Together, they discuss what it means to be a social enterprise, the mission behind HomeGround Café, and the unique challenges and rewards of balancing profit with purpose. This episode offers valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs looking to make a meaningful difference through their business ventures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Small Business Festival Wrap-Up, we tackle one of the most critical issues facing businesses today: cybersecurity. Adam Selwood, founder of Cynch Security, joins us to discuss the concept of “cyber fitness” and how small businesses can identify and address their digital weak spots. Adam breaks down the key threats small businesses face in the digital landscape and shares simple, actionable steps to improve cybersecurity without breaking the budget. From understanding the most common vulnerabilities to implementing basic protective measures, this episode is packed with practical advice to keep your business safe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of The Small Business Festival Wrap-Up, we explore the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence and its transformative impact on businesses. Jim Stewart from Stewart Media joins us in the studio to demystify AI and share his insights following his presentation at the Small Business Festival. Jim dives into the practical applications of AI for small businesses, from automating daily tasks to enhancing customer experiences. He also discusses the potential challenges and opportunities AI presents for the future, offering actionable tips for businesses looking to integrate AI into their operations. Whether you’re new to AI or already exploring its possibilities, this episode provides valuable perspectives to help you stay ahead in an ever-evolving digital landscape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to our special wrap-up episode of the 2024 Small Business Festival, where we spotlight the Business Excellence Panel held at The Rocks, in Mornington. This vibrant event brought together five exceptional local business owners to share their stories, strategies, and secrets to success. Join us as we explore what makes these businesses thrive in a competitive landscape. Our panelists delve into the importance of innovation, customer engagement, sustainability, and community connection in achieving excellence. Ebony Flett, Red Hill Candle Co Jim Begley, Little Woodworkers Sue Voss, Robinson Voss Partners Craig Vanstone, Corner Pantry Café Jason Nethercott, Talking Hens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.