What I learned in business (that didn't kill me!)

LMND may be the hottest female fashion brand in Australia right now.James H Stewart sits down with Ana Escobar, founder of Australian fashion label LMND, to explore an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey spanning two continents, some of Australia's best-known retail brands, and the challenges of building a self funded premium fashion business.Born in Australia before moving to Colombia as a young child, Ana shares her remarkable story of growing up in Medellin, during one of Colombia's most turbulent periods before returning to Australia to pursue a career in fashion. From starting as a sales assistant at Oroton to becoming Brand Director, leading private label innovation at Big W, and ultimately launching LMND in 2018, Ana's career demonstrates the power of resilience, creativity and customer obsession.In this episode we discuss:• Growing up between Australia and Colombia and the experiences that shaped her outlook.• Building a career through Oroton, Apparel Group and Big W.• Why she left corporate retail to launch LMND.• Identifying a gap in the market for premium wardrobe essentials.• Why LMND opened a physical store before launching online.• Building an international brand stocked by retailers including Myer, Selfridges and Neiman Marcus.• Growing a business without external investors or private equity.• Customer-led product development and the importance of listening over ego.• Social media strategy without relying on paid influencers.• Scaling a founder-led business while protecting brand integrity.• The lessons Ana has learned from building one of Australia's fastest-growing independent fashion brands.Whether you're an entrepreneur, retailer, designer, business owner or simply fascinated by the journey of building a successful brand, Ana's story offers practical insights into leadership, innovation and disciplined business growth.Connect with James StewartLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/Website: https://jameshstewart.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatilearnedinbusiness/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatILearnedinBusinessIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with your network.DisclaimerThe information, opinions and views expressed by guests on What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!) are their own and are provided for general information and discussion purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, investment or professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Listeners should obtain independent professional advice relevant to their own circumstances before making any business, financial or investment decisions. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, neither the host nor the producers accept responsibility for any loss arising from reliance on information contained in this episode.

What can a funeral business teach us about leadership, trust, innovation and family business governance?Quite a lot, it turns out.In this episode of What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me), I sit down with James MacLeod OAM, Managing Director of Tobin Brothers Funerals, one of Australia's largest and most respected family-owned businesses.James's journey is remarkable. Starting as a coffin trimmer as a young boy, he worked his way through virtually every role in the organisation before becoming the first non-family Managing Director in the company's history. Today, he leads a team of approximately 280 people delivering around 7,000 funerals each year.This conversation goes far beyond the funeral industry.We explore the realities of leading a business that operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, supporting families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. We discuss succession planning, governance, culture, innovation, customer trust and the unique challenges of balancing family ownership with professional management.James also shares the story behind Tobin Brothers' bold decision to launch Fixed Price Cremations, a low-cost, no-service offering designed to compete directly with emerging disruptors in the market. It is a fascinating case study in self-disruption, strategic thinking and the lessons he brought back from executive education programs at INSEAD and Harvard.We also discuss:• The history and evolution of Tobin Brothers• The changing nature of funerals and memorial services• Cremation versus burial trends• Virtual funerals and the impact of COVID• Governance in multi-generational family businesses• The appointment of independent leadership and directors• Employee culture in a business built around grief and service• AI, automation and the future of funeral services• Emerging technologies including aquamation and environmentally sustainable alternatives to traditional burial and cremationThis is a thoughtful, insightful and at times surprising conversation about an industry every one of us will engage with, but very few of us truly understand.Whether you're a business owner, director, executive, family business leader or simply curious about how great organisations build trust over generations, you'll find valuable lessons in this discussion.This episode is proudly supported by the Family Business Association (FBA), which supports, connects and advocates for family businesses across Australia and New Zealand.Connect with James H StewartLinkedIn: James H StewartInstagram: @whatilearnedinbusinessYouTube: What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me)If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, leave a review and share the episode with your network.DisclaimerThe views, opinions and experiences expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or any affiliated organisations. This podcast is intended for general information and educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, legal, investment, taxation or other professional advice. Listeners should seek independent professional advice relevant to their own circumstances before making any business or investment decisions.

Born and raised on a dairy farm near Shepparton and the first person in her extended family to attend university, Wendy built a remarkable 32-year career with Accenture that took her from regional Victoria to leadership roles across Asia, New York and the global technology consulting sector.Following her executive career, Wendy became one of Australia's most respected Non-Executive Directors, serving on the boards of organisations including Coles, Commonwealth Bank, Blackmores, Altium, Melbourne Business School and most recently PwC Australia. She also has a long association with Fitted For Work, the NFP supporting women in the workplace.In this wide-ranging conversation, Wendy shares lessons from the boardroom and beyond, including:Her journey from country Victoria to global leadership.Building and leading large technology businesses across multiple countries.The hardest leadership lessons she learned during periods of organisational change.Governance under pressure and how boards respond when public scrutiny intensifies.The evolving relationship between shareholders, regulators and community expectations.The realities of CEO succession planning and why it remains one of the most important responsibilities of any board.The growing impact of artificial intelligence and technology disruption on corporate strategy.Why culture, relationships and authenticity remain critical ingredients for long-term business success.The challenges facing not-for-profit organisations and the importance of creating sustainable operating models.Wendy brings a rare combination of technology expertise, governance experience and practical leadership wisdom.Whether you're a director, executive, business owner, investor or aspiring leader, there are valuable lessons throughout this conversation.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with your network.Connect with James Stewart:LinkedIn: James H Stewart GAICDInstagram: @whatilearnedinbusinessYouTube: What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!)Website: www.jameshstewart.comDisclaimerThe views expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host, associated organisations, employers, clients or affiliates. This podcast is intended for general information and entertainment purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, legal, tax, investment or professional advice. Listeners should obtain their own independent professional advice before making any decisions based on matters discussed in this episode.

If we are the "lucky country", why does life feel hard for so many of us?Saul Eslake is one of Australia's most respected independent economists and his conversation with James H Stewart cuts through the political noise and examines the true state of Australia's finances.Drawing on decades of experience advising governments, financial institutions and businesses, Saul provides a candid assessment of Australia's economic performance over the past quarter century and discusses the major challenges that will shape the nation's future.Together they explore:• How Australia's economy compares with global peers including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and New Zealand• Whether Australians are genuinely better off today than they were 20–25 years ago• The country's productivity challenge and why meaningful economic reform has become increasingly difficult• The role of minority parties and the Senate in shaping Australia's policy agenda• The impact of global geopolitical tensions, tariffs and changing international trade relationships• The 2026 Federal Budget and whether it is a genuine reform agenda or simply a revenue-raising exercise• Housing affordability, negative gearing, capital gains tax and discretionary trust reforms• Victoria's growing debt burden and whether the state is facing a long-term fiscal challengeThis is a wide-ranging conversation about economics, government policy, productivity, living standards and the choices Australia will need to make if it wants to remain prosperous in the decades ahead.Whether you're a business owner, investor, director, executive, student or simply someone trying to understand where Australia is heading, this episode provides valuable insight into one of the most important conversations facing the nation.CONNECT WITH JAMES STEWARTLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/Instagram: whatilearnedinbusinessYouTube: What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!)If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, subscribe and share it with your network.DISCLAIMERThe views expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or any affiliated organisations.This podcast is intended for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, taxation, legal, investment or professional advice. Listeners should obtain independent professional advice relevant to their own circumstances before making any financial, business or investment decisions.

Online success is more than just a great platform, service or product.Brand development, storytelling and communication sit front and centre of why customers will engage with you. This means understanding the power of language.In this episode I sit down with Bernadette Schwerdt — entrepreneur, best selling author, founder of the Australian School of Copywriting, and host of the podcast So You Want to Be a Copywriter.Bernadette has spent decades helping businesses and individuals communicate in a way that drives real commercial outcomes. But in today’s environment — shaped by artificial intelligence, shifting business models, and the explosion of digital content — the stakes around communication, storytelling, and intellectual property have never been higher.We discuss Bernadette’s latest book, The Secrets of Online Success, and the key lessons for anyone looking to build a business in today’s digital economy.We also cover a wide range of other topics including:Bernadette’s journey from South Australia into acting, public speaking, authorship and entrepreneurshipBuilding and scaling the Australian School of CopywritingWhat actually makes online businesses successful — and why many failThe commercial value of clear communication and why so many businesses get it wrongLessons from entrepreneurs and authors she has worked with, including through her ghostwriting workThe role of storytelling in building brands and influencing customersCommon mistakes leaders make when presenting and communicatingThe impact of artificial intelligence on copywriting, content creation, and business modelsWhere human creativity and judgement still matter in an AI-driven worldThis is a conversation about far more than writing — it’s about how businesses create value, communicate it effectively, and adapt in a rapidly changing world.⚠️ DisclaimerThe information, views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and are provided for general information purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal or professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. You should seek appropriate professional advice tailored to your individual circumstances before making any decisions. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information discussed, no representation or warranty is given as to its completeness or reliability.🔗 Connect with the showFor more episodes, updates and enquiries:Website: https://jameshstewart.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIlearnedinbusiness

Coopers Brewery is one of Australia's oldest family businesses and most famous brewers.In this episode James H Stewart sits down with Andrew Cooper, Executive Director of Coopers Brewery.Founded in Adelaide in 1862, Coopers Brewery has survived wars, recessions, industry disruption, changing consumer preferences, and even a hostile takeover attempt.But this conversation is about far more than beer.Andrew shares his journey from investment banking and global consumer brands into the family business, why Coopers requires family members to earn their stripes outside the company before joining, and how the business approaches governance, succession planning and leadership development across multiple generations.James and Andrew explore:• The remarkable history and evolution of Coopers Brewery• Why family members must gain external experience before joining the business• Succession planning in a sixth-generation family enterprise• The appointment of Coopers' first non-family Managing Director• What makes naturally conditioned ale unique• Vertical integration, brewing operations and supply chain strategy• Consumer trends, moderation and the growth of low and no-alcohol products• Brand portfolio management and innovation in a changing market• Technology, automation and AI in modern brewing operations• Coopers' expansion into whisky production• The new Regency Park visitor experience, restaurant and tap roomThis episode also provides a fascinating insight into how a family business can remain true to its heritage while continuing to innovate and evolve in a rapidly changing market.Whether you're involved in a family business, interested in succession planning, or simply curious about how iconic Australian brands endure, this conversation is packed with practical lessons and insights.What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!) is hosted by James Stewart.Connect with James:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/james-h-stewart-gaicd-83b46a9Instagram: @whatilearnedinbusinessYouTube: What I Learned in Business (That Didn't Kill Me!)Disclaimer:The views, opinions and experiences shared by guests on this podcast are their own and are provided for general information and entertainment purposes only. They do not constitute financial, investment, legal, taxation, business or professional advice. Listeners should obtain independent professional advice appropriate to their own circumstances before making any decision or taking any action based on the content of this podcast. While reasonable care is taken in producing this content, no representation or warranty is made regarding the accuracy, completeness or currency of the information discussed.

What happens when business and government policy intersect? What happens when the institutions that underpin our democracy, economy and social cohesion come under pressure? What happens to leaders when moral clarity is lost?James Stewart sits down with Jennifer Westacott AC — one of the most influential leaders in Australian public and business life.From growing up in public housing, in a home marked by hardship, violence and instability… to becoming one of the most powerful voices in Australian business, government and the education sector, Jennifer’s story is one of resilience, courage and an unwavering commitment to fairness, dignity and opportunity.Over a remarkable career Jennifer has served at the highest levels of public life — from leading major government departments in housing, education, planning and infrastructure… to building KPMG’s sustainability and government advisory practice… to spending 13 years as Chief Executive of the Business Council of Australia, where she became the public face of corporate Australia during some of the most turbulent economic and social challenges of our time.Today, Jennifer is Chancellor of Western Sydney University, Chair of the Bradfield Development Authority, a Director of Wesfarmers, and a leading voice on social cohesion, education and the future of Australian institutions.In this candid conversation, Jennifer shares:How growing up in public housing shaped her lifelong commitment to fairness and equityWhat she learned running one of the most politically sensitive portfolios in NSWThe biggest policy battles and hardest lessons from 13 years leading the BCAWhy weak productivity, falling living standards and social fragmentation pose major risks to Australia’s futureHer views on business, government, housing affordability and the future of education.Why she believes leaders must act with moral clarity and consistency when institutions are testedHer deeply personal reflections on social cohesion and antisemitismThis is a conversation about power, purpose, courage and what values-driven leadership looks like when the stakes are highest.If you lead people… advise boards… build businesses… shape policy… or simply care about the future of Australia — this episode is essential listening.DisclaimerThis podcast is intended for general information, education and discussion purposes only. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or any affiliated organisations. Nothing in this podcast constitutes financial, legal, investment, political, or professional advice. Listeners should obtain independent advice relevant to their own circumstances.

Have you ever wanted to be part of a Social Enterprise? What about building a business that does good for the community - at scale?Kim McDonnell — founder of Thankful, Thankful4Farmers, and Saveful, and winner of the 2025 Women in Digital Champion of Change Award, has done just that (and more)!Kim shares her remarkable journey from growing up in the remote mining town of Mount Isa, in outback QLD to building and selling a successful digital marketing agency, before making the bold decision to walk away from corporate success, sell literally everything she and her family owned and dedicate her life to solving some of the world’s biggest social and environmental challenges.We unpack:The moment Kim realised commercial success alone wasn’t enough to fulfill herWhy she sold everything to pursue a social enterprise missionThe founding story behind Thankful and the science of gratitudeMoving her family to New York City to pursue global impactSpeaking at the United Nations during General Assembly weekThe creation of Thankful4Farmers with celebrity chef Matt MoranWhy food waste is one of the world’s biggest hidden environmental problemsHow Saveful is using technology and behavioural psychology to help families save money and reduce wasteThe realities of startup life, resilience, capital raising, and purpose-driven leadershipThis is a powerful conversation about courage, values, behavioural change, and building businesses that aim to leave the world better than they found it.🎧 Connect with the ShowFollow What I Learned in Business (That Didn’t Kill Me!) on your favourite podcast platform.Connect with James Stewart on LinkedIn for more insights on leadership, governance, restructuring, entrepreneurship and business transformation.Instagram: @whatilearnedinbusinessYouTube: What I Learned in Business YouTube ChannelWebsite: James H Stewart⚠️ DisclaimerThis podcast is intended for general informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not constitute financial, legal, investment, environmental, or professional advice. Listeners should obtain independent advice relevant to their own circumstances before making any decisions based on the content of this episode.