Gold Coast Insider

RDA Gold Coast
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Welcome to Gold Coast Insider, where we bring you business insights, stories, opportunities and forecasts from movers and shakers across the Gold Coast.

  1. Todd Babiak, Brand Gold Coast — The economics of identity: Why the Gold Coast story matters

    1D AGO

    Todd Babiak, Brand Gold Coast — The economics of identity: Why the Gold Coast story matters

    (00:00) Gold Coast Insider: Introducing Todd Babiak (00:44) Culture, identity and community (04:55) The potential of the Gold Coast (06:29) Case study: The fight to keep Austin weird (10:39) Who are we and what are we selling to the world? (11:45) Brand Gold Coast (13:55) What does it mean to be a Gold Coaster? (21:34) Interviewing Gold Coasters (23:21) Key priorities for Brand Gold Coast (26:55) What is place branding and how does it shape the economy? (32:31) The Gold Coast's overseas markets (34:35) The big question: What is the Gold Coast story (36:31) How can Gold Coasters we part of building our next chapter? In this week’s episode, we meet internationally renowned place-branding expert Todd Babiak, the new CEO of Brand Gold Coast. You might assume his role is all about logos, taglines, ad campaigns… but you’d be wrong. In this compelling conversation, Todd shares Brand Gold Coast’s deeper mission: uncovering and articulating the core story of the Gold Coast — what the city means to its residents, why we build our lives here, and how do you amplify this? According to Todd, the Gold Coast is ‘the city that says yes’ — an unpretentiously ambitious place that welcomes and embraces newcomers, creating a fertile field for positive transformation or reinvention. We explore how a city’s cultural identity shapes investment, entrepreneurship and opportunity — and how the power of a shared story can influence decisions at every level: government, business, community and individual. About Todd Todd Babiak is CEO of Brand Gold Coast and, in his spare time, an author and investor. He co-founded the strategy consultancy firm Story Engine, which ultimately brought him to Australia and — lucky Todd — to the life-changing Gold Coast. Links Todd Babiak LInkedIn  Brand Gold Coast (article)

    40 min
  2. Leah Harrison — First Minutes Matter: Saving lives before help arrives

    JAN 11

    Leah Harrison — First Minutes Matter: Saving lives before help arrives

    (00:00) Introduction (01:30) Introduction to Leah Harrison (02:49) Leah’s role at LifeFlight (04:56) LifeFlight Overview and Mission (06:07) First minutes after an incident are so critical (10:37) First Minutes Matter Program Overview (21:04) Real life examples of First Minutes Matter making a difference (22:46) Recap: What is taught in the workshop (25:07) How to request a workshop (26:05) Future goals for First Minutes Matter (30:29) Closing comments If you came across an accident — or a family member or friend had a medical emergency — would you know what to do before help arrives? (… And how would it feel if you didn’t?) In this week’s podcast episode, we speak with Leah Harrison, Senior Medical Educator with First Minutes Matter, an emergency trauma training program developed by LifeFlight Australia. Leah explains why the first few minutes after an incident are critical — and how calm, informed bystanders can actually save lives or dramatically improve long-term outcomes. From bleeding and burns, to snake bites, airway obstructions, strokes, seizures and cardiac arrest, there are practical actions anyone can take with the right knowledge and confidence. Learn how LifeFlight is empowering communities and workplaces throughout Queensland with their completely free, hands-on workshops — and how you, your business or community group can get involved. An unmissable episode with takeaways for everyone. About Leah Leah Harrison is a Registered Nurse with more than 20 years’ experience working in Emergency Departments. She is currently a Senior Medical Educator with LifeFlight Australia, based in Sunshine Coast, and serves as the First Minutes Matter Regional Medical Educator covering the Sunshine Coast and South Burnett regions. In her role, Leah works alongside critical care doctors to develop and deliver the First Minutes Matter program, providing free and practical emergency trauma training to communities across Queensland. Links First Minutes Matter Program  LifeFlight Facebook  LifeFlight LinkedIn  LifeFlight Instagram  LifeFlight YouTube

    32 min
  3. Shane Thomson — Powering the Coast’s future workforce: The central role of the Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee

    12/14/2025

    Shane Thomson — Powering the Coast’s future workforce: The central role of the Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee

    (00:00) Introduction (02:11) Shane Thomson Introduction (03:05) Regional Jobs Committee Overview (03:50) Shane’s Role as Project Manager (05:16) How the RJC Addresses Local Workforce Challenges (07:34) GC RJC Webpage & Newsletter Launch (08:29) Supporting Small Businesses & Workforce Planning (11:34) Key Workforce Challenges on the Gold Coast (14:08) Youth Workforce Trends (16:43) GC Priority Sectors & Workforce Trends (18:33) Future-Proofing for the Olympics & Beyond (21:48) Engaging with the GC RJC (23:18) Available Queensland Government Programs (25:17) GC RJC Future Goals (28:51) Closing Remarks The Gold Coast is on the cusp of a workforce explosion — with a projected 6.2% jump by 2027–28 and more than 22,000 new jobs on the way. For local businesses already battling skills shortages, the pressure is only set to increase. Enter Shane Thomson, the new Project Manager of the Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), a Queensland Government-backed initiative delivered by RDA Gold Coast. In this episode, Shane reveals how the RJC will cut through the noise, connect businesses with real workforce solutions, and help employers tap into government support, training pipelines and industry partnerships. If finding staff feels harder than ever, this conversation is a much-needed dose of clarity — and a roadmap for navigating the biggest workforce shift the Gold Coast has seen in decades. About Shane Shane Thomson is the new Project Manager for the Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee, bringing extensive experience in workforce development, vocational education and industry engagement. He joins the RJC following a successful career with the Queensland Government, where he worked closely with employers, training providers and community organisations across the Gold Coast, Logan, Redlands and Scenic Rim. His background spans skills development, apprentice and trainee support, and collaborating with businesses and industry to address real workforce challenges. Links Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee  Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee Facebook  Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee LinkedIn  Subscribe to GC Jobs & Industry Links Get in contact with Shane E: projects@goldcoastrjc.org.au  M: 0492 976 421

    30 min
  4. Kimberley Roberts-Salee — Cybercrime hits Queensland Hard: Here's how to stop hackers before they hit you

    10/20/2025

    Kimberley Roberts-Salee — Cybercrime hits Queensland Hard: Here's how to stop hackers before they hit you

    (00:00) Introduction (01:15) What is Cyber Wardens? (03:19) Cybersecurity Risk for Small Businesses (05:11) Prevalence of Cybercrime (06:49) Common Cyber Attacks on Small Businesses (10:33) Red Flags and Warning Signs (15:44) Good Cybersecurity Habits (19:50) Cyber Wardens Training Overview (25:13) Queensland Government/Cyber Wardens Partnership 27:35) What to do if you clicked on a Phishing Link? (29:52) Importance of a Cyber Response Plan (32:59) Cyber Hygiene & Ongoing Tips (38:33) Closing Remarks Nearly half of cybercrimes reported in Australia target small businesses and sole traders – and Queensland tops the nation for attacks. The average loss? Around $50,000 per incident. In this essential episode of Gold Coast Insider, Kimberley Roberts-Salee from the government-backed Cyber Wardens program shares practical, jargon-free advice to safeguard your business from scammers and hackers. We explore the most common attack types and how to counter them, key red flags, the #1 cyber habit to slash your risk, how AI is changing the threat landscape, and the free Cyber Wardens training available to all Queensland businesses. Don't miss our bonus, FREE Cyber Wardens & RDA Gold Coast Webinar on Wed 12 November! About KimberleyAs one of the Cyber Wardens program educators, Kimberley is passionate about raising awareness around the importance of small business cyber security and empowering small business owners and employees to increase their cyber resilience and learn how to stay safe online. WIth a career spanning 15 years in small businesses across industries including tourism, business events, government consultancy, aviation and professional services, she has a strong appreciation of the vital role small businesses play in their communities and the unique challenges they face. LinksCyber WardensCyber Wardens LinkedInCyber Wardens InstagramCyber Wardens FacebookCyber Wardens XKimberley Roberts-Salee LinkedIn

    40 min
  5. Yvette Adams, Camm Gibson & Natalie Walsh, BIRO — Unlocking global talent: Skilled migration made simple

    09/22/2025

    Yvette Adams, Camm Gibson & Natalie Walsh, BIRO — Unlocking global talent: Skilled migration made simple

    (00:00) Introduction(01:37) What is the Business Industry and Regional Outreach (BIRO)?(03:36) 2024 Visa Changes Explained(04:10) National Innovation Visa(05:05) Skills in Demand Visa(07:06) Specialist vs Core Skills Streams(10:24) Resources Available for Business & Migrants(12:12) Common Business Visa Concerns(15:06) Construction Industry Visa Updates(23:21) Health Sector Visa Updates(28:02) BIRO Speaking Events/Workshops(29:05) Closing Comments With unemployment on the Gold Coast at historic lows, many businesses are struggling to find and retain the skilled staff they need — especially in health, construction, digital and hospitality. This week’s podcast explores how Australia’s Skilled Migration Program is filling critical workforce gaps. Our guests — Yvette Adams, Camm Gibson and Natalie Walsh from the Department of Home Affairs' Business, Industry and Regional Outreach (BIRO) —  share practical insights into the program, and explain how BIRO equips employers with the guidance they need to navigate the ‘migration maze’ with ease.  Discover how to get started with the process, which visa types best suit your situation (and why), plus insider tips on how to fast-track processing times to as little as seven days. If your local recruitment efforts are falling short, this episode is packed with essential information to help your business unlock global talent and thrive. About BIROThe Department of Home Affairs’ Business, Industry and Regional Outreach (BIRO) network supports business, industry, government agencies and regional stakeholders to understand and effectively utilise the skilled migration program and workforce visa to fill workforce vacancies where positions cannot be filled by Australian workers. The BIRO network also engages with stakeholders on skilled visa program matters, gathering sentiment and feedback from businesses and peak bodies. LinksDepartment of Home Affairs: Employing Overseas WorkersDepartment of Home Affairs BIRO networkSkilled Occupation ListNational Innovation VisaSkills in Demand VisaSkilled Employer Sponsored Regional VisaSkilled Work Regional VisaShort Stay Specialist VisaDepartment of Home Affairs LinkedIn

    30 min
  6. Natalie Moloney – Helping women restart their careers with confidence

    08/24/2025

    Natalie Moloney – Helping women restart their careers with confidence

    (00:00) Introduction(00:55) Inspiration for At the Helm Career Services(02:19) Lived Experience(03:47) Women in the Workforce(07:28) Fears about Returning to the Workforce(08:27) Skills Gained During Career Breaks(10:09) Overview of At the Helm Career Services(15:25) Most Rewarding Moments(18:01) Employer Accreditation & Initiatives(22:45) What Employers Can Do(27:01) First Steps for Women Returning(32:04) Closing Comments Restarting your career? Not sure where to begin? Start here! This week’s podcast guest Natalie Moloney, Founder of At the Helm Career Services, shares how a chance conversation at her daughter’s school inspired her shift from HR professional to career coach. Hearing another mum’s anxiety about returning to work sparked a lightbulb moment, leading Natalie to a new mission: helping women (and anyone re-entering the workforce) rebuild confidence, market their skills and embrace new opportunities. In this upbeat conversation, Natalie shares insights on breaking through barriers, and thriving in a changed workplace. We also explore a range of free government resources to support career reboots (including Gold Coast libraries!), and flip perspectives to hear what employers can do to foster a supportive workplace culture and tap into this underutilised talent pool. About Natalie Natalie Moloney is a qualified Career Practitioner with a strong HR background across diverse industries. In 2021, she launched At the Helm Career Services to help individuals — especially women returning from career breaks — navigate their next steps with confidence. With lived experience, practical insight, and formal credentials in Career Development and HR, Natalie is passionate about helping people thrive at work and in life. She is tertiary qualified with a Graduate Certificate of Career Development and a Bachelor of Commerce (HRM) and is a Professional Member of the Career Development Association of Australia. Links At the Helm Career ServicesAt the Helm Career Services LinkedInAt the Helm Career Services FacebookAt the Helm Career Services Instagram Resources Career Revive ResourcesWork 180Family Friendly WorkplacesWorkplace Gender Equality AgencySuited to SuccessFitted for WorkFW Jobs AcademyLinkedIn Learning (free access for anyone a Gold Coast library card)

    34 min
  7. Glenn Ayrton: Running a business is tough – getting help shouldn't be!

    08/10/2025

    Glenn Ayrton: Running a business is tough – getting help shouldn't be!

    (00:00) Introduction (00:38) Gold Coast as a Small Business Capital (02:04) Post-Covid Business Shifts (05:38) Current SME Challenges (09:39) Role of Business Concierge (14:53) Emerging Trends Impacting SMEs (16:48) How Concierge Services Bridge the Gap (20:34) Most Requested Business Support (22:34) Tips for Small Business Owners (24:41) Business Success Stories (32:22) Final Piece of Advice (33:02) Closing Comments Running a small or medium-sized business in today’s economy is no easy feat. The rules of the game have shifted, and consumer expectations continue to evolve. The good news? A wealth of free government services and resources are available to help your business adapt, grow and succeed.  In this week’s episode, we chat with Glenn Ayrton, Business Concierge for the South-East Region, from the Queensland Department of Customer Services, Open Data, and Small and Family Business. With his expertise and insider knowledge, Glenn helps connect SMEs with tailored support — from mentoring and business planning to grants, financial counselling, marketing, website development, social media, workforce planning, and wellbeing programs.  Tune in to discover how you can access this invaluable help and set your business up for long-term success — all just a phone call away. About GlennGlenn Ayrton is the Business Concierge representative for the South-East Region of Queensland with the Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business.  Glenn provides a range of support services to small businesses including grant funding information, access to business mentoring, financial and wellness coaching plus access to a range of free online resources. Links Business Concierge Program Business Queensland — Grant information and business resources for small business Mentoring for Growth program — Free mentoring Queensland Small Business Commissioner  — Assistance for tenancies/leased business premises Glenn Ayrton LinkedIn Contact Glenn on 0478 405 423 or SEConcierge@desbt.qld.gov.au

    35 min
  8. Prof James St John - A world-first clinical trial to treat chronic spinal cord injuries

    06/01/2025

    Prof James St John - A world-first clinical trial to treat chronic spinal cord injuries

    Interview with Professor James St John, Head of the Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research at Griffith University’s Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics Every day, one Australian suffers a spinal cord injury — often with lifelong consequences. But what if the key to healing lies... in your nose? This week on the Gold Coast Insider Podcast, we dive into revolutionary research that’s turning heads worldwide. Our guest, Professor James St John, is leading a world-first clinical trial at Gold Coast University Hospital that aims to regrow damaged spinal nerves using olfactory cells (yes, the ones that detect smell!) to create neural bridges and spark regeneration. It’s bold. It’s ground-breaking. And it’s happening right here on the Gold Coast. From spinal repair to early detection of Alzheimer’s and dementia, this episode is a deep dive into radical science, brilliant minds and hope for millions. Tune in now – this is one episode you won’t want to miss. (00:00) Introduction (01:35) Journey into Neuroscience (04:20) Olfactory System & Regeneration (06:54) Breakthrough Spinal Cord Therapy (09:58) Clinical Trials & Challenges (16:58) Previous CIinical Trial Attempts (20:28) Long-term Intensive Rehabilitation to Therapy Success (22:46) Impact of Spinal Cord Injury (26:16) Clinical Trial Goals & Designs (33:01) Power of Philanthropy & Community Support (37:21) Alzheimer's & Smell Loss Link (44:59) Building a Legacy of Innovation (47:39) Closing comments About Prof St John Prof James St John is Head of the Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research at Griffith University. Prof St John has been lead investigator on more than $38 million of research projects funded by philanthropy, state and federal government. The major project of the Centre is the translation of a cell transplantation therapy to repair spinal cord injury. The community co-designed therapy uses transplantation of olfactory glial cells within three-dimensional nerve bridges to repair the injury site of chronic spinal cord injury, combined with intensive long-term rehabilitation. This therapy is now progressing to a clinical trial that is commencing in late 2025 in Queensland. Links Griffith University Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics  Griffith University Smell Clinic  Professor James St John LinkedIn

    49 min
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About

Welcome to Gold Coast Insider, where we bring you business insights, stories, opportunities and forecasts from movers and shakers across the Gold Coast.

Information

  • Creator
    RDA Gold Coast
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    52
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © RDA Gold Coast
  • Show Website
    Gold Coast Insider