Owner To Owner Podcast

Michael Kerr
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Owner to Owner is the boldest business podcast for Australia’s SMEs. Host Michael Kerr gets raw and real, talking to business owners like you. Exploring the everyday struggles they face and the different pathways they tread to success. Forget the slick stories of tech titans and out-of-reach solutions from people who’ve never put their hopes and livelihood on the line. Owner to Owner dives into the wins and losses, pitfalls, luck and moments that made a difference. You’ll find grit, laughs, maybe a few tears and hard-won lessons only available from others who’ve been where you are—whatever your stage of ownership. Every business owner has a compelling story to share. Join us to listen and learn.

  1. A stronger SME economy, higher business productivity and broader wealth creation through Employee Ownership: Andy Farquharson.

    6D AGO

    A stronger SME economy, higher business productivity and broader wealth creation through Employee Ownership: Andy Farquharson.

    @Michael Kerr and @Andy Farquharson dive into #employeeownership Andy founded @abettermonday  and hosts the @alternativeexit podcast.  They discuss; Why Employee Ownership is such a viable exit strategy for small business owners The benefits of EO for;How EO has the potential to bridge wealth disparities and enhance productivityThe conversation also covers what's needed to increase the number of successful EO transitions, including; The importance of engaging employees in the ownership transition processThe need for a supportive regulatory framework, and The cultural shifts required for successful implementation. Key takeaways Employee ownership can sustain small businesses and local economies.There is a significant productivity increase in employee-owned businesses.Employee ownership requires a cultural shift within organizations.Education and access to data are crucial for employee engagement.Employee ownership can help bridge wealth disparities in communities.Transitioning to employee ownership needs capital and management expertise.The regulatory environment must support employee ownership models.Employee ownership is viable for various types of businesses.Engaging employees early in the ownership conversation is essential.Local investment can enhance the success of employee-owned businesses.Chapters 00:00 Exploring Employee Ownership as an Exit Strategy 03:15 Andy Farquharson's Journey to Employee Ownership 08:04 The Benefits of Employee Ownership for All Stakeholders 10:33 The Role of Benevolent Owners in Employee Ownership 15:33 Addressing Wealth Disparity and Worker Disengagement 19:11 Implementing the Owner Operating System 24:10 Common Misunderstandings About Employee Ownership 26:24 Engaging Owners in the Employee Ownership Conversation 29:44 The Importance of Open Communication in Business Sales 30:36 Aligning Incentives for Employee Engagement 32:35 Preparing Businesses for Sale: Cultural Changes 34:25 The Psychological Barriers of Exit Planning 35:04 The Challenge of Business Improvement 36:25 Employee Ownership: A Fit for All Businesses? 39:48 The Continuum of Employee Ownership Models 42:00 The Role of Small Business Owners 44:39 Engagement Levels in Employee Ownership 45:25 Bringing European Employee Ownership Models to Australia 47:19 The Impact of Employee Ownership in Regional Communities 49:27 Key Conditions for Successful Employee Ownership 51:00 Top Priorities for Small Business Policy 54:18 OTO outro 15-4-25.mp3 @kerrcapital   Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show. Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes. Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business. michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

    55 min
  2. Acquired serendipitously, and then transformed: Rebecca Barnett's 154 year old Maldon Bakery acquisition.

    JAN 28

    Acquired serendipitously, and then transformed: Rebecca Barnett's 154 year old Maldon Bakery acquisition.

    @Rebecca Barnett serendipitously acquired the @Maldon Bakery  The Bakery is 154 years old and also the oldest continuously running bakery in Australia. It's a hell of a legacy to take on! Find out how serendipity led her to this historic gem, her challenges in reviving its legacy, and the continuous improvement model that drives her success. From leveraging family history in baking to navigating the complexities of running a business, Rebecca shares her insights on; entrepreneurshipthe importance of community supportthe value of mentorshipthe art of baking Tune in to learn how passion and vision can turn a dream into reality. @kerrcapital Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show. Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes. Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business. michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

    49 min
  3. My small business is my superannuation: Nigel Purchase founder Chase Basketball

    12/11/2025

    My small business is my superannuation: Nigel Purchase founder Chase Basketball

    @Michael Kerr talks with @Nigel Purchase founder of Chase Basketball. Nigel and his team have just celebrated a 25 year business birthday. A mighty fine effort for this #familybusiness.  Nigel is all in on his business. It's his passion, it's his superannuation and he still loves going to work! In the discussion Nigel reflects on the 25-year journey, talks about his still strong passion for coaching and the positive impact it has on young athletes. He discusses the challenges he faced in the early days, the importance of mentorship, and the unique dynamics of running a family business.  The conversation also touches on; the significance of communityhis own business philosophythe joy of doing what you love and the importance of building a supportive team.Takeaways; Early challenges included navigating the popularity of basketball in a competitive sports market.Mentorship played a crucial role in his business development.Family involvement is key to the business's culture and success.Community and belonging are central to the mission of Chase Basketball.Growth is important, but it should not compromise the quality of the programs.A positive work culture is fostered through recognition and supportContentment with one's business and life is a significant achievement.    Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Chase Basketball 09:19 Challenges and Growth in Business 12:36 The Importance of Mentorship 16:08 Family and Community in Business 20:22 Future Generations and Legacy 23:32 Finding Fulfillment in Business 28:41 Reflecting on Purpose and Value 30:02 Business as a Personal Superannuation 32:33 The Balance of Growth and Contentment 35:35 Finding Joy in Business and Community 39:04 Future Aspirations and Growth in Basketball 43:46 Philosophy of Business and Leadership 49:10 Navigating Politics and Small Business Challenges @kerrcapital Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show. Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes. Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business. michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

    49 min
  4. From Corporate to Small Business Owner and back to Corporate: What Elise Heslop learned along the way.

    12/03/2025

    From Corporate to Small Business Owner and back to Corporate: What Elise Heslop learned along the way.

    Host @Michael Kerr and guest @Elise Heslop talk through how and why Elise transitioned from a 'safe and secure' corporate role to life as an entrepreneur. After taking a family sabbatical in Italy, she founded Ply Room, a values-based furniture business. After she successfully sold Ply Room she's headed back to a new role in Corporate as Head of Marketing for @earlypay. A full circle with lots of challenges overcome, lessons learned, and pivotal moments.  We dig deep into her experiences of being a solo founder and owner of a #smallbusiness; The importance of trusting your instincts to the realities of running a small businessFinding resilience and adaptabilityThe highs and lows of business ownershipThe courage it takes to follow your own pathElise's family sabbatical in Italy as a pivotal moment in her careerThe realities of small business ownership - loneliness, stressTrying to find balance between business and personal lifeElise shares insights on finding a supportive networkWhat it's like to start then sell a business Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Elise Heslop00:03:00 From Corporate to Entrepreneurship00:09:00 Founding Ply Room00:15:00 Challenges and Lessons Learned00:21:00 The Importance of Instincts00:27:00 Balancing Business and Personal Life00:33:00 Conclusion and Reflections@kerrcapital     Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show. Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes. Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business. michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

    52 min
  5. Enhancing Business Value with Employee Ownership: Craig West Founder of Succession Plus

    11/26/2025

    Enhancing Business Value with Employee Ownership: Craig West Founder of Succession Plus

    In this compelling episode of "Owner to Owner," host Michael Kerr dives deep with Dr. Craig West, the visionary founder of Succession Plus. Together, they unpick the transformative power of employee ownership programs and their profound impact on business value and succession planning. Discover how and why these strategies not only enhance business resilience but also foster community well-being. Dr. West shares invaluable insights on; How employee ownership programs can significantly enhance business value.Why early exit planning is crucial for business success.How employee share plans help retain key staff and improve business resilience.Why understanding business value is so essential for business owners.How succession planning benefits both businesses and communities.Employee ownership as a strategic exit option.Why employee share plans are gaining popularity in AustraliaChapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Employee Ownership00:00:00 Benefits of Employee Share Plans00:00:00 Valuation and Exit Planning00:00:00 Succession Planning in Australia00:00:00 Community Impact and Business Resilience  Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show. Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes. Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business. michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

    49 min
  6. To grow your business be brave and get comfortable taking imperfect action, Gabe Villarreal

    10/17/2025

    To grow your business be brave and get comfortable taking imperfect action, Gabe Villarreal

    @Gabe Villarreal founder, business buyer and business growth adviser on scaling a liquor business to a million dollars in monthly revenue. We discuss strategies for over coming the practical challenges of scaling and exiting businesses, as well as the merits of 'holding' businesses rather than selling.  He stresses the importance of imperfect action, learning from failures, and having options in business.  Gabe also talks about his experiences in different industries and countries, and the significance of building a business with an exit strategy in mind. Takeaways The importance of imperfect action over waiting for perfection.Learning from failures.Having options in business is more important than the exit itself.Building a business with an exit strategy in mind is essential.Cash flow management is critical for business survival.Acquiring an established business can be more efficient than starting from scratch.@michael kerr  @kerr capital    Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show. Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes. Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business. michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

    1h 14m
  7. Juggling Passion and Financial Sustainability in the NFP Sector: Jacquie Riddell

    10/01/2025

    Juggling Passion and Financial Sustainability in the NFP Sector: Jacquie Riddell

    @Jacquie Riddell is an experienced #NFP leader and current chair of the @CBAA. The NFP or #ThirdSector is presenting huge challenges to leadership, employees and the many volunteers. Jacquie and host @Michael Kerr talk about; Financial sustainabilityMergers & Acquisitions in the NFP sector The impact of overcrowding in the charity sectorThe need for adopting new and better business models and #tech to improve effectivenessGovernance, collaboration, and the role of philanthropy The future of charitiesThe phenomenon of 'accidental retirement'How professionals can transition from corporate roles to the not-for-profit sectorSome key takeaways Not-for-profits need reliable cash, not just goodwill.The charity sector is overcrowded with over 60,000 charities in Australia.Passion alone is not enough; capability is essential.Successful charities adopt business models similar to for-profits.Governance is critical for the growth of not-for-profits.Mergers and collaborations can enhance sustainability in the charity sector.Philanthropy is a major opportunity for charities, especially during wealth transfer.Post-COVID challenges include reduced revenue and volunteerism.B Corps represent a growing trend in socially responsible business.Chapters: 00:00 The Role of Not-for-Profits in Society 05:15 Challenges and Opportunities in the Charity Sector 10:08 Adopting Business Models in Not-for-Profits 15:06 Governance and Capability in Charities 20:25 Social Enterprises and Merging Opportunities 25:18 Collaborative Solutions in Community Broadcasting 27:04 The Importance of Sustainable Revenue 28:59 The Rise of B Corporations and Social Responsibility 31:11 Governance and Effective Leadership in Nonprofits 33:22 The Reality of Nonprofit Work and Organizational Capacity 35:36 Funding Challenges and Opportunities for Charities 37:54 Navigating Post-COVID Challenges in the Charity Sector 39:33 Accidental Retirement: A New Perspective on Career Transitions 41:10 Policy Recommendations for the Charity Sector @kerrcapital Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show. Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes. Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business. michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

    42 min
  8. Decoding AI: Strategies for Small Business Success: David Brudenell, Decidr.

    09/18/2025

    Decoding AI: Strategies for Small Business Success: David Brudenell, Decidr.

    @Michael Kerr welcomes @David Brudenell Executive Director from @decidr.ai discuss the challenges and opportunities for Australian SMEs in adopting AI strategies.  They explore the National AI Readiness Index launched by Decidr,  the importance of system design, and how AI can transform small businesses. The conversation delves into the potential of AI to provide #SMEs with the equivalent of thousands of employees, the role of agentic platforms, and the need for businesses to adapt to the fast-paced AI landscape. Takeaways: SMEs need a system built for action, not just beliefMost businesses lack a plan to integrate AI effectivelyAI can provide SMEs with the equivalent of thousands of employeesSystem design is crucial for successful AI integrationAI is a horizontal technology that thrives on contextAgentic platforms can unshackle businesses from administrative tasksAI can transform hospitality by handling bookings and customer serviceSMEs have the most to gain from AI but are at risk of being outpacedAI can help businesses scale and become more resilient@kerrcapital   Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show. Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes. Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business. michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

    50 min
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About

Owner to Owner is the boldest business podcast for Australia’s SMEs. Host Michael Kerr gets raw and real, talking to business owners like you. Exploring the everyday struggles they face and the different pathways they tread to success. Forget the slick stories of tech titans and out-of-reach solutions from people who’ve never put their hopes and livelihood on the line. Owner to Owner dives into the wins and losses, pitfalls, luck and moments that made a difference. You’ll find grit, laughs, maybe a few tears and hard-won lessons only available from others who’ve been where you are—whatever your stage of ownership. Every business owner has a compelling story to share. Join us to listen and learn.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Kerr
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    171
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Owner To Owner Podcast
  • Show Website
    Owner To Owner Podcast