Leadership Odysseys

Unleashing Creativity and Resilience with Christina Exie

In this inspiring episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with Christina Exie, co-founder of Stacked Studio and former founder of the athleisure brand EXIE. Christina takes us on a journey through her career, starting with her early passion for fashion, winning Project Runway Australia, and how she is now helping other fashion entrepreneurs bring their brands to life through Stacked Studio.
Currently focused on Stacked Studio, Christina offers insights into the challenges of the fashion industry, her entrepreneurial journey, and the pivotal moments that defined her success. She explains how her personal experiences empower her to guide aspiring entrepreneurs in creating standout brands.
We also explore her deep commitment to blending creativity with sustainability, and how her work at Stacked Studio is helping fashion startups thrive. This episode is filled with lessons on resilience, creativity, and staying true to your purpose as a leader and innovator.
Key Takeaways:
Turning Challenges into Success: Christina reveals how winning Project Runway Australia set the stage for her entrepreneurial journey, and how she navigated the transition from building her brand EXIE to co-founding Stacked Studio.
The Launch of Stacked Studio: With EXIE on hold, Christina is now focused on helping fashion entrepreneurs create, develop, and launch their brands through Stacked Studio.
Mindset & Resilience: Christina shares how practices like exercise, mindfulness, and self-care have helped her manage anxiety and maintain a strong mindset throughout her career.
Helping Brands Grow: Discover how Christina’s expertise in brand strategy, design, and product development is helping fashion startups stand out in a competitive market.
 
Links & Resources:
Follow Christina Exie on Instagram: @christinaexie
Learn more about Stacked Studio: @stackedstudio
Connect with Christina on LinkedIn: Christina Exie
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website
 

Redefining Social Impact with Rachael Cook, CEO of Inclusee

Redefining Social Impact with Rachael Cook, CEO of Inclusee
In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we have the honour of speaking with Rachael Cook, a visionary leader who is redefining the landscape of social impact and community engagement. As the CEO of Inclusee, Rachael has pioneered innovative approaches to addressing loneliness and isolation among older Australians and First Nations people. With a career spanning over two decades, her leadership journey is marked by resilience, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Key Highlights:
Rachael's Leadership Journey:
Rachael shares her early beginnings in leadership and how her passion for helping others guided her career path.
Insights into her first significant leadership role as a branch manager before her 21st birthday.
Transition to Inclusee:
The evolution of Inclusee from a traditional charity to a dynamic digital platform under Rachael’s leadership.
The mission of Inclusee to reduce social isolation, and the innovative digital programs that support this goal.
Values-Based Leadership:
Rachael discusses her commitment to values-based leadership and how it shapes the culture at Inclusee.
The importance of trust, respect, and compassion in driving the organisation’s mission and vision.
Challenges and Innovations:
The challenges of transforming a nonprofit organisation and the innovative solutions implemented to overcome them.
Rachael’s experience in managing a remote workforce and the strategies used to maintain strong team connections.
Personal Insights and Advice:
Rachael’s personal anecdotes about juggling life and career, and the importance of resilience.
Valuable lessons for aspiring leaders, emphasising the significance of embracing failure and continuously striving for improvement.
This conversation with Rachael Cook offers deep insights into the complexities and rewards of leading a nonprofit organisation dedicated to social impact. Rachael's unwavering dedication to fostering connections and her innovative leadership approach serve as a beacon of inspiration for all. Join us in celebrating the remarkable journey of Rachael Cook, as she continues to transform lives and communities through the power of social connection. Thank you, Rachael, for sharing your incredible story and wisdom with us on Leadership Odysseys.
Connect with Rachael: LinkedIn
Inclusee: LinkedIn | Website 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Exploring Leadership and Real Estate with Sam Rigopoulos

Exploring Leadership and Real Estate with Sam Rigopoulos
In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we had the privilege of sitting down with Sam Rigopoulos, a luminary in the real estate industry renowned for his dedication, resilience, and transformative leadership. Sam shares his journey from aspiring real estate agent to industry trailblazer, offering profound insights into the power of passion, perseverance, and the joy of giving back through coaching and mentoring.
 
Key Highlights:
From Aspiration to Achievement: Sam shares his early aspirations in the real estate industry and how perseverance and resilience propelled him from novice to industry leader.
The Power of Mentorship: Discover Sam's perspective on the profound impact of mentorship, both in his own career and in his newfound passion for coaching and guiding others.
Balancing Act: Sam challenges conventional notions of work-life balance, emphasising the importance of loving what you do and integrating work into a fulfilling life.
Lessons in Resilience: Learn about Sam's approach to navigating challenges and setbacks, and how cultivating resilience and positivity are crucial for success.
Legacy and Leadership: Explore Sam's thoughts on building a meaningful legacy, leaving a lasting impact in the real estate industry, and beyond.
Sam Rigopoulos embodies the essence of leadership through his unwavering commitment to excellence, genuine passion for mentorship, and profound insights into achieving personal and professional fulfilment. His journey serves as an inspiration, illustrating the transformative power of perseverance and the joy found in guiding others towards success. Tune in to this episode of Leadership Odysseys to gain deeper insights into leadership, resilience, and the enduring impact of a purpose-driven career.
Connect with Sam: LinkedIn | Instagram 
Jellis Craig: Website 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Believe in yourself: Ray’s journey to building one of Australia’s largest Packaging companies

In this special Father’s Day edition of Leadership Odysseys, Kirsty is joined by a very special guest—her dad, Ray Cranfield. Ray’s journey is one of vision, resilience, and leadership, with over 30 years in the packaging industry. He founded Dekris in the early '80s, which evolved into Australian Packaging, a premier company that played a critical role in delivering brand excellence for some of Australia’s most iconic brands like Mrs. Mac's Pies, Darrell Lea, Smith's Chips, and Qantas.
Throughout his career, Ray emphasizes the importance of building and nurturing strong teams, the critical role of sales in business growth, and fostering long-lasting relationships with clients and suppliers. His strategic approach to leadership and commitment to his team's success were key factors in the sustained growth and profitability of his company.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ray’s passion for sailing led him to serve for 20 years with the Royal Motor Yacht Club, including 13 years on the board and 7 years in executive roles such as Treasurer, Rear Commodore, Vice Commodore, and Commodore. His dedication to both his business and personal passions exemplifies a life well-led, balancing career success with personal fulfillment.
This episode delves into Ray's entrepreneurial journey, the pivotal moments in his career, the challenges of building a successful business, and the lessons he learned along the way. Ray’s story is not only a testament to his leadership but also a heartfelt tribute from Kirsty to the man who has inspired her the most.
Key Topics:
Ray's early career in sales and the founding of Dekris, which became Australian Packaging.
The significance of building a strong, dedicated team and empowering them for success.
The critical role of sales in business leadership and growth.
Strategies for nurturing and maintaining strong relationships with clients and suppliers.
Ray’s strategic decision to exit partnerships and take full control of his business.
His long-term dedication to the Royal Motor Yacht Club, including his roles on the board and in executive positions.
Balancing business, family, and personal passions like sailing.
Reflections on leadership, the importance of self-belief, and advice for aspiring leaders.
Memorable Quotes:
“Believe in yourself. Whatever you decide to do, you can achieve.”
“Not all business is good business—you have to recognize what’s good for your company and put it in place.”
“Salespeople are the most successful people in the world; they are the ones who drive business forward.”
 
This episode is a unique blend of professional wisdom and personal reflections, offering valuable insights into what it takes to build a successful business, lead with integrity, and balance it all with personal fulfillment. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned leader, or someone who loves a good story of perseverance and success, Ray Cranfield’s journey will leave you inspired.
Australian Packaging: Website 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Building a Greener Future with Greener Founder, Tom Ferrier

Building a Greener Future with Greener Founder, Tom Ferrier
In this inspiring episode of Leadership Odysseys, Kirsty Gee sits down with Tom Ferrier, the visionary founder and CEO of Greener. With a background in strategic IT leadership and a passion for sustainability, Tom shares his journey from corporate life to founding a pioneering clean-tech startup that's reshaping how businesses and consumers approach environmental stewardship.
Key Highlights:
The Genesis of Greener: Tom recounts his transition from the corporate world to founding Greener, inspired by a personal promise to use his digital skills for positive change. Discover how a pivotal encounter ignited his passion for tackling climate change and led to the creation of Greener.
Overcoming Challenges: Tom candidly shares the emotional and financial struggles he faced while building his first startup, Purposed. He explains how these experiences shaped his approach to founding Greener and the valuable lessons he learned along the way.
Greener's Mission and Impact: Learn about Greener's innovative approach to making sustainability accessible and financially beneficial for businesses and consumers. Tom discusses how Greener helps businesses save money while reducing their carbon footprint, ultimately aiming to take 25 million cars off the road in emissions by 2030.
Behavioural Science and Partnerships: Tom highlights the importance of behavioral science in Greener's strategy and the role of key partnerships with organizations like Harvard and NAB Ventures. He emphasizes how these collaborations have been crucial in scaling Greener's impact.
Future Ambitions and Advice for Entrepreneurs: Tom shares Greener's ambitious goals for the future and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. He stresses the importance of seeking honest feedback, continually self-reflecting, and working hard to achieve success.
Join us as Tom Ferrier takes us on a journey through the highs and lows of building a startup dedicated to making a positive impact on the planet. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to a greater purpose. Tune in to be inspired by Tom's passion for creating a greener, more sustainable future for all.
Links and Resources:
Visit Greener's website to learn more about their mission and how you can get involved.
Special offer for Leadership Odysseys listeners: Get free access to Greener for Business at Greener Exclusive.
Tom would love to hear your feedback, so our listeners can reach him directly at tom@greener.com.au
Connect with Tom: LinkedIn 
Greener: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

A Journey in Public Relations with KateCo. PR Founder, Kate Keane

A Journey in Public Relations with KateCo. PR Founder, Kate Keane
In this episode, we had the privilege of diving into the world of public relations with Kate Keane, the founder of KateCo. PR. From humble beginnings to establishing a renowned PR agency, Kate shared her invaluable insights and experiences, shedding light on the journey that led her to where she is today.
Key Highlights:
Elite Brand Partnerships: KateCo. PR has solidified its position in the PR industry by partnering with elite brands across various sectors. From fashion to tech, Kate and her team have orchestrated successful PR campaigns, elevating the brand presence of their partners on a global scale.
Cultural Excellence: At the heart of KateCo. PR’s success lies its exceptional culture of trust and autonomy. Kate fosters an environment where team members are empowered to lean into challenges, celebrating highs and learning from lows with unwavering support. This approach not only enhances team morale but also fuels creativity and innovation.
Global Impact: With a client-centric approach and a commitment to excellence, KateCo. PR has made a significant impact globally. Their strategic PR initiatives have not only bolstered brand visibility but also contributed to shaping positive narratives that resonate with diverse audiences worldwide.
Visionary Leadership: Kate's journey as a leader is marked by her dedication to fostering psychological safety within her team. Embracing the philosophy of failing forward, she ensures that mistakes are learning opportunities and that each team member feels supported and valued, ultimately driving long-term success.
Kate's journey in the world of public relations is nothing short of inspiring. From her unwavering dedication to excellence to her commitment to nurturing a positive culture, Kate exemplifies what it means to be a visionary leader in the industry. We're immensely grateful for the wisdom and insights she shared with us today, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for KateCo. PR as they continue to make waves in the world of PR.
 
Connect with Kate: LinkedIn 
KateCo.PR: LinkedIn | Website | Instagram 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

The Power of Belief: Ray Itaoui’s Path to Success

Transformative Leadership with Ray Itaoui
Welcome to another inspiring episode of Leadership Odysseys! In this episode, we have the honour of hosting Ray Itaoui, a visionary entrepreneur and leader in the retail and property investment sectors. With over 30 years of industry experience, Ray has redefined the landscape of retail through his transformative leadership, innovative strategies, and unwavering determination. Join us as we delve into Ray's remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in the business world, driving growth and success across multiple ventures.
 
Key Highlights:
Early Beginnings and Family Influence:
Ray shares his unique upbringing, starting from his birth in Lebanon and being raised by his grandmother while his parents established a new life for the family in Australia. He reflects on how these early experiences instilled values of hard work, perseverance, and excellence.
Climbing the Ranks at Sanity Entertainment:
Ray discusses his rapid ascent from an area manager to CEO at Sanity Entertainment. He elaborates on the challenges he faced during the dynamic shifts in the music and entertainment market and how his leadership revitalised the iconic brand. Eventually, Ray became the owner of Sanity, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Expanding Horizons:
Beyond Sanity, Ray ventured into new territories, acquiring and transforming other retail businesses such as Honey Birdette, Mr. Vitamins, and The Universal Store. He highlights the innovative approaches that drove the success of these ventures.
Strategic Investments and Board Roles:
Ray shares insights into his strategic investments in shopping centres and his roles on various boards, including Aventus Group. He emphasises the importance of strategic decision-making and value creation in driving business growth.
Leadership at Best & Less:
As the current owner & CEO of Best & Less, Ray discusses his vision for the company and the strategies he employs to ensure its success. He talks about the importance of quality, customer value, and the cultural transformation he is leading.
Ray’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and visionary leadership. Ray's experiences highlight the importance of having key business partners you can trust, believing in yourself, and placing culture at the center of every business. These insights provide invaluable lessons for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs.
 
Connect with Ray: LinkedIn 
Connect with Best&Less: Instagram | Website | LinkedIn
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

A Journey of Resilience and Belief in People with Steve Toth

A Journey of Resilience and Belief in People with Steve Toth 
 
In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we delve into the remarkable journey of Steve Toth, a seasoned leader with a passion for people and a relentless drive for excellence. From his early days navigating health challenges to his later roles as CEO and board member, Steve's story is one of resilience, growth, and unwavering belief in the power of human connection.
 
Key Highlights:
 
Early Challenges and Lessons: Steve reflects on his journey through health challenges in his early years, revealing how these experiences instilled in him a profound sense of resilience and a determination to overcome obstacles.
 
The Power of Feedback: Steve emphasizes the importance of feedback in leadership, highlighting how constructive feedback, coupled with recognition of strengths, can inspire growth and excellence in individuals and teams.
 
Guiding Principles in Leadership: Throughout the conversation, Steve shares his guiding principles in leadership, emphasizing the value of clarity, simplicity, and a focus on outcomes. He underscores the role of leaders in guiding and empowering their teams to achieve shared goals.
 
Belief in People: A recurring theme in Steve's journey is his unwavering belief in the potential of people. From his early experiences in management to his role as a mentor and board member, Steve advocates for fostering environments where individuals can thrive and contribute their best.
 
Steve's Career Legacy:
Throughout his illustrious career, Steve has left an indelible mark on some of the world's leading brands. From his tenure at renowned companies to his leadership roles driving innovation and growth, Steve's journey exemplifies the trajectory of a visionary leader who has continuously pushed the boundaries of what's possible in business.
 
As our conversation draws to a close, it's evident that Steve's leadership journey is defined not only by his professional achievements but also by his commitment to making a positive impact on others. Through resilience, belief in people, and a dedication to continuous learning, Steve exemplifies the qualities of an inspirational leader whose influence extends far beyond the boardroom. Tune in to Leadership Odysseys to uncover more insights from leaders shaping the future of business and beyond.
 
Connect with Steve: LinkedIn 
Connect with Tillo: Website | LinkedIn
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Embracing Authenticity: A Journey of Resilience, Growth, and Passion with Fleur Brown, Chief Industry Affairs Officer at ARA

Embracing Authenticity: A Journey of Resilience, Growth, and Passion with Fleur Brown, Chief Industry Affairs Officer at ARA
Welcome to an insightful episode of the Leadership Odyssey's podcast, featuring Fleur Brown, whose journey embodies the essence of authentic leadership and relentless passion. As a founding Director of TEDx Sydney and the Chief Industry Affairs Officer at ARA, Fleur has left a lasting impact in entrepreneurship, media, and sustainability. From her early childhood experiences as part of a cult to her journey of finding balance and authentic expression, Fleur's story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing personal identity and navigating diverse career paths.
 
Key Highlights:
Empowering Authenticity: Fleur's journey is a testament to the power of embracing authenticity, a lesson she learned early on and carried through to her roles as founding director of TEDx Sydney and producer of the Nine Network's Entrepreneurship TV show. Her unwavering commitment to staying true to herself has not only shaped her own path but also served as a source of inspiration for others navigating their own leadership journeys.
Leadership in Diversity: As the Chief Industry Affairs Officer at ARA, Fleur is a leading advocate for diversity and inclusion in the retail sector. Her work in promoting social impact and sustainability has reshaped industry standards, making a tangible difference in people's lives and the planet.
Embracing Portfolio Careers: Fleur's embrace of a portfolio career reflects her versatile talents and interests, from journalism to entrepreneurship. Her willingness to explore new opportunities, including owning a TV show, highlights the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning in leadership.
Navigating Challenges: Fleur's career journey is a testament to her resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. Despite grappling with self-doubt and the unfamiliarity of new endeavours, such as stepping in front of the camera as a media spokesperson, Fleur embraced these opportunities with courage and conviction. Notably, her transition into this role was encouraged by mentors like Paul Zahra, marking a significant shift from her previous avoidance of the camera, despite running her own TV show and training hundreds of media personnel in media training techniques.
 
In closing, Fleur's journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of authenticity, passion, and perseverance in leadership. From her early experiences shaping her worldview to her current role as a changemaker in the retail sector, Fleur's story is a testament to the importance of staying true to oneself while making a positive impact on the world. Thank you, Fleur, for sharing your inspiring journey with us, and thank you to our listeners for joining us on this odyssey of leadership exploration.
 
Connect with Fleur: LinkedIn 
Connect with ARA: LinkedIn | Website 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Navigating Change and Leadership: Insights from Gemma Saunders

Navigating Change and Leadership: Insights from Gemma Saunders
In this insightful conversation with Gemma Saunders, listeners are taken on a journey through the foundational years and key milestones of Gemma's impressive career. Gemma shares her perspective on embracing change, the importance of short-term test-and-learn strategies, and the critical role of self-mastery in effective leadership.
 
Key Highlights 
 
Early Foundations and Resilience: Gemma reflects on her formative years and the invaluable advice she received from her art teacher, emphasizing the power of reading and knowledge. This early lesson laid the groundwork for her future success and resilience in navigating various challenges throughout her career.
 
Test and Learn Mentality: Gemma stresses the importance of adopting a "test and learn" approach, highlighting the significance of short-term experimentation and feedback loops. She underscores the need for agility in making small changes that can yield significant long-term impacts, both personally and professionally.
 
Self-Development and Leadership: As a leader, Gemma emphasizes the importance of self-mastery and continuous self-reflection. She dedicates time each week to self-development, leveraging Fridays for learning, reflection, and preparation. Gemma believes that effective leadership begins with knowing oneself and being a trustworthy guide for her team.
 
Career Highlight: Launching 5G in Australia: Among Gemma's notable achievements is her role in launching 5G technology in Australia, contributing to significant advancements in the telecommunications industry and paving the way for future innovation.
 
Building a Wheel of Success: Gemma shares her strategy of cultivating a diverse support network, or "wheel of success," comprising individuals who fulfill different needs across her professional journey. She emphasizes the value of seeking mentorship and advice from a range of sources, each contributing unique perspectives and insights.
 
From her early days as a determined art student to her current position as a respected leader, Gemma's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, lifelong learning, and embracing change. Her insights offer invaluable guidance for leaders navigating the complexities of today's dynamic business landscape.
 
Connect with Gemma: LinkedIn 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website