Crafting a Business by The Collab Co & Only the Sweet Stuff

Debbie Hatumale-Uy
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Crafting a Business is the podcast for founders and small business owners who want real talk about building something that lasts. Hosted by Debbie Hatumale-Uy, founder of The Collab Co, each episode dives into the strategy, mindset and systems behind sustainable business growth. With 20+ years across corporate marketing, government and small business, Debbie brings a practical, no-fluff approach to conversations about marketing, AI adoption and the everyday realities of running a business.

  1. Jun 22

    S3 E6: Meet Nidhi & Kapil from Guni SMS: Cutting Through the Noise with Smarter Customer Communication

    In this episode of Crafting a Business, Debbie sits down with Nidhi and Kapil, the founders of Guni SMS, to explore how businesses can cut through the noise and create more meaningful connections with their customers. Combining Nidhi's background in sales and marketing with Kapil's extensive experience in telecommunications and technology, the duo has built a platform that helps businesses use SMS as more than just a marketing tool. From customer engagement and appointment reminders to automation, AI, and compliance, they share how SMS is evolving into a powerful communication channel for modern businesses. In this conversation, they discuss: How their different backgrounds came together to build Guni SMSWhy SMS remains one of the highest-performing communication channelsCommon mistakes businesses make when engaging customersThe importance of compliance, consent, and trust in customer communicationsHow SMS fits into a broader omnichannel marketing strategyThe upcoming changes to SMS regulations in AustraliaThe future of AI-powered customer engagement and automationWhether you're a marketer, business owner, or entrepreneur looking to improve customer communication, this episode is packed with practical insights on building stronger relationships and getting better results from your marketing efforts. 🎧 Connect with Nidhi & Kapil: Website: https://gunisms.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guniau/?originalSubdomain=auInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guni.messaging/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/guniaustralia/

  2. Jun 22

    S3 E5: Meet Steven from InLend Solutions: Making Property Finance Simple

    In this episode of Crafting a Business, Debbie sits down with Steven Bandeski, founder of InLend Solutions, to unpack the world of mortgage broking, property investing, and financial education. With more than 20 years of experience in banking and lending, Steven shares his journey from starting in a bank call centre to building his own brokerage business. Along the way, he reveals why he believes brokers should be educators first—helping everyday Australians navigate the complexities of lending, property ownership, and wealth creation. In this conversation, you'll learn: How Steven transitioned from banking into entrepreneurshipThe role mortgage brokers play in simplifying complex financial decisionsCommon misconceptions first-home buyers and investors have about borrowingHow guarantor strategies can help younger Australians enter the property marketThe importance of financial education and making informed decisionsPractical tips for paying off a home loan fasterWhat borrowers should know about changing market conditions and government policyWhether you're a first-home buyer, aspiring investor, small business owner, or simply curious about how lending works, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world advice. 🎧 Connect with Steven: Website: https://www.inlendsolutions.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-bandeski-876b171a6/

  3. Jun 22

    S3 E4: Meet Julie & Andy from Inigma Finance: Making Business Finance Human

    In this episode of Crafting a Business, Debbie sits down with Julie and Andy, the founders of Inigma Finance, to explore the world of business lending, equipment finance, and what it really means to put clients first.With backgrounds spanning banking, equipment finance, business ownership, and hospitality, Julie and Andy bring a unique perspective to helping businesses secure the funding they need to grow. Their approach goes beyond transactions—they focus on education, relationships, and making finance accessible for everyday business owners.In this conversation, they discuss:How their very different career paths led them to finance brokingWhy many business owners misunderstand lending and finance optionsThe importance of asking questions and seeking guidance earlyHow brokers advocate for clients and navigate complex lending processesThe realities of running a business through economic uncertainty and post-COVID challengesThe role of technology and AI in modern financeBuilding a business centred on service, trust, and long-term relationshipsWhether you're a small business owner, entrepreneur, or simply curious about how business finance works, this episode offers practical insights, honest conversations, and a refreshing look at the people behind the numbers.🎧 Connect with Julie & Andy:Website: https://www.inigmafinance.com.au

  4. Jun 22

    S3 E3: Meet Fiona from Chocolate on Purpose: Crafting a Purpose-Driven Brand

    In this inspiring episode of Crafting a Business, Debbie sits down with Fiona from Chocolate on Purpose—an Indigenous-owned social enterprise creating chocolate that tells a much deeper story. Fiona shares her remarkable journey from overcoming personal adversity and intergenerational trauma to building a purpose-driven business that celebrates Indigenous culture, ethical sourcing, and ancient plant knowledge. Discover how a single moment during chocolatier training sparked the idea for Chocolate on Purpose and how native Australian botanicals became the vehicle for sharing culture, healing, and connection. Together, Debbie and Fiona explore: The powerful stories behind Indigenous plant knowledgeEthical chocolate production and the realities of the global cacao industrySupporting Indigenous growers and women through meaningful employmentThe importance of purpose-led business and social impactHow storytelling can create deeper connections with customersThis conversation is a heartfelt reminder that business can be a force for good—and that sometimes the most meaningful brands are built on stories, values, and a desire to create positive change. 🎧 Connect with Fiona:Website: https://chocolateonpurpose.com.au/?srsltid=AfmBOorpVZsFylEXkBkTrsbvtyZxuKSaJbbnqsWxXkvcpTOWCuGMpEwwSocials: @chocolateonpurpose

  5. Jun 17

    S3 E2: Meet Manisha from MLD Accounting: Building a Business Behind the Numbers

    For many business owners, the numbers side of business can feel overwhelming. But understanding your finances doesn't have to be complicated—or scary. In this episode of Crafting a Business, I'm joined by chartered accountant and business advisor Manisha Govender, founder of MLD Accounting & Business Advisory. We explore how business owners can build confidence with their numbers, make smarter decisions, and move from overwhelm to clarity. Manisha shares her journey from a successful corporate finance career with Deloitte and global leadership roles to launching her own business focused on relationships, collaboration, and meaningful impact. We discuss cash flow, budgeting, forecasting, business planning, and practical strategies for navigating today's economic challenges. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your business, this conversation is packed with valuable insights to help you better understand your finances and make informed decisions with confidence. In this episode, we discuss:• Manisha's journey from corporate finance to business ownership• Why understanding your numbers is essential for business growth• Overcoming financial overwhelm and gaining clarity• Cash flow, budgeting, and forecasting fundamentals• Navigating rising costs and economic uncertainty• The importance of trusted advisors and open conversations about money• Practical tips for small business owners looking to grow sustainably Connect with Manisha and learn more about MLD Accounting & Business Advisory through her website and social channels: Website: https://www.mldaccounting.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mldaccounting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mld-accounting-and-business-advisory-pty-ltd

  6. Jun 10

    S3 E1: Welcome to Season 3: The Evolution of Crafting a Business

    After a break, Crafting a Business is back for Season 3. In this episode, I share how the podcast has evolved alongside my own business journey—from the early days of creativity and growing OTSS, to launching a marketing agency, becoming a fractional CMO, and working with businesses across a wide range of industries. Season 3 will focus on marketing, AI, ecommerce, business growth, and the incredible stories of founders and business owners navigating today's changing landscape. In this episode, I cover: • The evolution of Crafting a Business from Season 1 to Season 3 • Lessons learned from growing OTSS and building community • Launching The Collab Code and becoming a fractional CMO • Why AI is changing the way we do business • What you can expect from Season 3 If you know a founder or business owner with a story worth sharing, I'd love to hear from you. Thank you for being part of the journey, and welcome to Season 3. 🚀 Find The Collab Co and myself here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecollabcoau/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@collabcohq LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/debbiehatumale Website: https://www.thecollabco.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbie.hatumale/

  7. 03/26/2025

    S2 E7: Unfiltered & Unstoppable: Kat from Unfvck Yourself Vitamins’ Journey from Sick & Stuck to Self-Made

    Kat, Founder of Unfvck Yourself Vitamins, is the kind of person who’ll make you laugh, call out the BS, and remind you that you’re more capable than you think, all in the same breath. In this episode, she shares how years of illness and frustration with the medical system led her to create a wellness brand that puts honesty first. No gatekeeping, no guilt, just real talk and really good vitamins! We go deep on building a business that aligns with your values, how to avoid the all-or-nothing trap of “clean living,” and why trusting your gut (literally and figuratively) is the move. If you’ve been craving a permission slip to do things your way, this episode is it. Find Kat and Unfvck Yourself Vitamins here: Website: https://unfvckyourselfvitamins.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfvckyourselfvitamins/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unfvckyourselfvitamins

  8. 03/19/2025

    S2 E6: Your First Home Made Simple: Expert Advice from Kelvin Mason

    In this episode, we welcome back mortgage broker Kelvin Mason for his second guest appearance to dive into everything first-time homebuyers need to know! From navigating rising property prices and understanding grants to exploring deposit options (even as low as 0%) and lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), Kelvin simplifies the process and provides practical, actionable advice. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply looking to make informed decisions, this episode is packed with tips to help you confidently start your homeownership journey. Don’t miss Kelvin’s expert insights tailored to today’s housing market! Connect with Kelvin & BuyInvestLive: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BuyInvestLiveResidentialCommercialFinanceLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/residential-commercial-development-private-finance-kelvinmason/https://www.linkedin.com/company/buy-invest-live-property-finance-lifestyle/?originalSubdomain=au BuyInvestLive Website - https://buyinvestlive.com.au/

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About

Crafting a Business is the podcast for founders and small business owners who want real talk about building something that lasts. Hosted by Debbie Hatumale-Uy, founder of The Collab Co, each episode dives into the strategy, mindset and systems behind sustainable business growth. With 20+ years across corporate marketing, government and small business, Debbie brings a practical, no-fluff approach to conversations about marketing, AI adoption and the everyday realities of running a business.

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