The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett

Alena Bennett

Welcome to the Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett, where you plus this podcast equals better decisions. I’m Alena Bennett, speaker, author and leadership expert. I work with chief executive officers and chief financial officers really to help them create universally investable companies, where people serve people, and the math just works. Each week, I interview a new guest to get their insights on the business landscape, as well as answering a listener question, and giving you my WINATM (What I'm Noticing At The Moment) to help you win atm.

  1. 3D AGO

    What is the Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett? - ML x RMOB Crossover Episode

    Welcome to the first ever CROSSOVER EPISODE for both podcasts, and we are so excited to have you join us for this one.Today, the team from the Magical Learning Podcast is chatting to the amazing Alena Bennett, host of The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett.Alena is a speaker, author and leadership expert who works primarily with CEOs and CFOs, helping build businesses where people serve people, the math just works.To reach out to Alena:https://www.alenabennett.com.au/https://www.linkedin.com/in/alenabennett/And to check out The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett:https://www.youtube.com/@UCTC-z1B7jxC8zUW4LBxS1ww https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/the-real-math-of-business-with-alena-bennett/id1824603857Magical Learning has been running as a training and facilitation company in Australia for over 25 years and has partnered programmes with global thought leaders like John Matone and Robin Sharma.To check out to the Magical Learning Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@UCb70j5K0EE1DLlCLCvqdsVQ https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/magical-learning-podcast/id1503860793To find out more about our free content, sign-up for future webinars as well as our other services, go to ⁠⁠https://magicallearning.com/⁠⁠ and sign up!You can also find us on our socials: Instagram: / magical_learning Facebook: / magicallearningteam Linkedin: / magicallearning Youtube: / @magicallearning Have a Magical week!

    46 min

  2. FEB 15

    The SME Superpowers with Bill Withers

    In this conversation, Alena Bennett speaks with Bill Withers, a seasoned SME owner and author of 'Succession Thinking'. They explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by SMEs, particularly in relation to employee wellbeing, leadership, and the importance of a strong business manifesto. Bill emphasizes the need for vision custodians within SMEs to ensure long-term success and discusses the concept of stewardship as a more nurturing approach compared to traditional governance. The conversation also delves into the role of data in driving business decisions and the importance of creating a culture of intrinsic motivation. Bill advocates for a shift in how SMEs are funded and supported, highlighting the potential for a more sustainable and thriving SME economy.To reach out to Bill and Adapt:https://theadaptway.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-withers/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Thought Provoking Question03:00 Introduction to Bill Withers and His Journey14:39 The Importance of SME Capitalism21:43 Understanding Stewardship in SMEs24:27 The Role of Vision Custodians in Business Strategy26:23 Building Capacity for Organizational Leadership29:46 The Challenges of SME Financing33:03 The Importance of Data in SME Growth34:10 Creating a System for Leadership and Culture41:37 Defining Success for SMEs44:03 Leveraging Data for Organizational Improvement49:13 The Balance of People and Numbers in Business59:49 The Future of SME Leadership and Investment01:05:36 Understanding the Numbers Behind Business Decisions

    1h 9m

  3. FEB 8

    Purpose, Business, and Kindling New Leaders with Bernie Kelly

    In this engaging conversation, Alena Bennett speaks with Bernie Kelly about the evolving role of boards and leadership in today's complex environment. They explore the emotional impact of vision planning, the importance of self-awareness, and the balance between efficiency and effectiveness. Bernie shares insights on the significance of lead indicators, accountability in purpose-driven organisations, and the human element in leadership. The discussion emphasises the need for agility and presence in leadership roles, as well as the importance of fostering a culture that supports growth and transformation.To reach out to Bernie:https://berniekelly.com/Chapters00:00 TPQ of the Week02:30 Introduction to Bernie Kelly and His Expertise04:05 Understanding the Evolving Role of Boards06:59 The Importance of Awareness and Discernment09:34 The Genius of the 'And' in Leadership12:19 Navigating Complex Conversations in Boardrooms14:47 The Human Element in Leadership17:44 The Shift from Control to Accountability21:20 The Role of Numbers in Leadership25:06 Lead vs. Lag Indicators in Business29:09 Becoming a Disruptor in Board Meetings31:33 Opening the Space for Difficult Conversations32:36 Lead and Lag Indicators: Understanding Their Relationship35:54 The Feed-Forward Ratio: A New Perspective39:36 The Importance of Human Connection45:35 Navigating Leadership Transitions47:34 Bernie's Journey: From Corporate to Coaching52:05 Triggers for Change in Organisations57:56 Listener Question: Understanding the Numbers in Business

    1h 3m

  4. FEB 4

    The Intersection of Business and Faith with Jason McDougall

    In this episode of "The Real Math of Business," host Alena Bennett welcomes leadership coach Jason McDougall to discuss the intersection of faith and business. Jason shares his journey from humble beginnings in Western Sydney to becoming a leadership mentor, emphasising the importance of understanding one's purpose and the role of faith in navigating challenges. He reflects on his career path, which includes experiences in various industries, and how these shaped his leadership style. The conversation delves into the significance of being vulnerable in leadership, the necessity of having a strong support system, and the transformative power of faith in both personal and professional realms.Throughout the discussion, Jason highlights the importance of self-awareness and the need to break personal rules that may hinder growth. He encourages listeners to embrace their true selves and to seek clarity in their goals and values. The episode concludes with practical advice for those feeling overwhelmed in their careers, urging them to focus on their 'why' and to cultivate a supportive environment where they can thrive. This episode is a rich exploration of how faith can guide leaders in making impactful decisions and fostering a positive workplace culture.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Thought Provoking Question03:51 Chat with Jason McDougall06:33 Jason's Career Journey: From Trade to Leadership12:17 The Importance of People in Business14:33 Shifting Mindsets: From Ownership to Stewardship19:47 Navigating Challenges: The Tension of Now vs. Legacy26:14 The Role of Faith in Business Leadership30:25 Finding Peace in Crisis: A Personal Story33:45 The Journey of Healing and Faith35:47 Embracing Discomfort for Growth37:49 Understanding Your Cornerstone42:43 Defining Success and Purpose47:34 Creating Unfiltered Conversations53:30 Encouragement for Authenticity in Business56:35 Listener Question: Traits of Successful People01:02:41 Conclusion and Call to Action

    1h 3m

  5. JAN 18

    What Your Meeting Culture Says About your Business Culture with Donna McGeorge

    Donna McGeorge, a sought-after international speaker and bestselling author, discusses time management and decision-making in the context of business. The conversation covers observations during the holiday season, the real math of business, the 25-minute meeting, and the first two hours of the workday. The key takeaways include insights into effective time management and the impact of decision-making on business outcomes. The conversation covers the impact of AI on productivity, the role of AI tools in meetings, and the influence of AI on gender disparities. It also delves into the philosophy of Red Brick Thinking and its application at both the micro and macro levels within organizations.Chapters00:00 Thought Provoking Question04:16 Chat to Donna McGeorge15:36 The First Two Hours23:57 ChatGPT Revolution and Generative AI43:11 The Philosophy of Red Brick Thinking56:09 Listener Question

    1h 5m

  6. 12/14/2025

    Top 5 Episodes of 2025

    This year has been a great start to the podcast and we wanted to highlight that by sharing you, the listener's, most watched episodes from our first year. Every guest from the entire season has been absolutely amazing and we want to thank them for making this show so good.So whether you listened to the whole season, or are using this episode to see which episode to listen to next, we hope you enjoy our top 5 most listened to/watched episodes of 2025.Chapters00:00 Reflections on the Year and Gratitude02:47 Top 5 - 5. David Fish06:05 4. Julia van Graas09:00 3. Yvonne Hilsz11:53 2. Steve Vamos14:59 1. Danette Fenton-Menzies

    19 min

  7. 12/07/2025

    Meet Your Host: Alena Bennett + The Origin of The Real Math of Business

    This week's podcast is a little different as we get into the mind of our host: Alena Bennett.In this episode, Alena shares her story with producer Jez. Starting with her accounting background to becoming a consultant, emphasising the importance of human connection in business. She discusses the duality of her cultural heritage and how it shapes her perspective on success. Alena reflects on her experiences in the corporate world, the significance of people in business, and the insights gained from her podcasting journey. The conversation highlights the need to challenge traditional business norms and recognise that success is multifaceted, driven by both numbers and human relationships.The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alena Bennett03:06 The Real Math of Business06:13 Alena's Journey into Accounting08:56 Transitioning from Corporate to Consulting12:05 The Importance of People in Business14:35 Cultural Duality and Personal Growth17:32 Lessons from Alena's Career20:24 The Impact of Personal Background on Professional Life26:28 Cultural Heritage and Identity29:08 Navigating Duality in Business and Life31:51 Unlocking Potential in Teams34:52 The Emotional Side of Numbers39:20 Lessons from Podcasting and Business

    45 min

  8. 11/30/2025

    The Human Side of Sales and Business with Katie Nelson

    In this engaging conversation, Alena Bennett interviews Katie Nelson, CEO of Sales Uprising, exploring the intricacies of sales, business growth, and the human elements that drive success. They discuss the importance of reflection in business, the dynamics between large and small organisations, and the critical role of cash flow. Katie emphasises that sales is not just about numbers but about authentic curiosity and active listening, which are essential skills for anyone in any role. The discussion also touches on the challenges of scaling a business and the importance of company culture in sales.To Reach out to Katie Nelson:https://salesuprising.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesalescatalyst/The Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett is a podcast where we look beyond the numbers in business; where people serve people, and the maths just works.Chapters00:00 Thought Provoking Question04:00 Interview with Katie Nelson08:58 Lessons from Early Business Ventures11:07 The Rebel Spirit of Entrepreneurs12:40 Data as a Business Saviour14:28 The Contextual Nature of Data17:03 The Human Element in Sales18:33 Generative AI and Human Interaction20:33 The Role of Communication in Business23:01 Sales: The Oldest Profession25:08 Innovation in Sales and Marketing27:42 Core Tenets of Sales That Endure29:10 Building Trust in Sales34:12 The Evolution of Company Culture38:05 The Role of Finance in Business43:09 Growth vs. Scaling in Business48:10 Sales as an Entrepreneurial Skill53:35 Navigating AI's Impact on Sales57:30 Listener Question: The Strengths of Large vs. Small Organisations

    1h 3m
See All (21)

About

Welcome to the Real Math of Business with Alena Bennett, where you plus this podcast equals better decisions. I’m Alena Bennett, speaker, author and leadership expert. I work with chief executive officers and chief financial officers really to help them create universally investable companies, where people serve people, and the math just works. Each week, I interview a new guest to get their insights on the business landscape, as well as answering a listener question, and giving you my WINATM (What I'm Noticing At The Moment) to help you win atm.

Information