The CBCC Voice - Business Unboxed

Karma Germanos
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the Canterbury Bankstown Chamber of Commerce Podcast! We share real stories from local business owners and community leaders—covering their struggles, wins, and expert tips. If you’re looking for inspiration, practical advice, or a sense of community in your business journey, you’re in the right place. Join us as we connect, learn, and grow together. Want to share your story or expertise? Reach out and join the conversation!

  1. May 4

    The CBCC Voice Podcast Ep 17 - 10 Years of CBCC & Building Community Through Connection

    Welcome to CBCC Voice Business Unbox! Today we're doing something special, sitting down with Wally , the heart and connector behind the Canterbury Bankstown Chamber of Commerce, to reflect on 10 years of growth, community building, and what it really means to lead with purpose. This isn't just a business story. It's a conversation about relationships, mentorship, and why the chamber exists to serve real people chasing real dreams. In this episode, Wally shares: How the chamber grew from a vision into a thriving community of 10 yearsWhy connection matters more than transactionsThe difference between being a connector and a transactional businessHow to spot when a supplier or service provider isn't serving you wellThe power of in-person events and why they matterBehind-the-scenes stories from the iconic Gala DinnerThe "Where is Wally" phenomenon—why authenticity beats polishUpcoming events: Youth Expo (May 13), Autism & Disability Expo (September), Yes for Trades Expo (August 27)Why knowledge is power—and how the chamber empowers members through educationYouth Expo – May 13 at Western Sydney University Bankstown CampusYes for Trades Expo – August 27 (in partnership with Superior Training Centre)Autism & Disability Expo – September at Bankstown Sports ClubAnnual Gala Dinner – November 21 (Theme: Under the Stars) – Book tickets soon! Key Takeaway: It's never about one person. It's about collective energy, passion, dedication, and sacrifice. And it's always about the people. Wally's message to members: "Reach out. It's worth having a second opinion. We're here to help. "Watch the full podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2SMTjMXyn3qvdZEepwWn4i6wc2QrjKWk&si=3QxIMJOIq3_6hSO-Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3SrxCKaKJSSQgsaCe7FcAW?si=Ua0LYYiXSJGte00S69sdqw Special thanks to Karma Germanos (www.karmagphotography.com.au, Follow: https://www.instagram.com/karmagphotography) for video editing and podcast production, www.instagram.com/contentbykarma, www.instagram.com/FactorySound for their support, and the NSW Government for sponsoring this podcast! 📢 Upcoming CBCC Events: Want to level up your business connections in Bankstown? Follow: https://www.instagram.com/cbchamber.org.au/ Start by becoming a CBCC member—discover all the benefits and join us at CBCC Membership or visit www.cbchamber.org.au. This is what community looks like. This is what leadership looks like. #CBCCVoice #ChamberOfCommerce #BankstownBusiness #CommunityFirst #Leadership #Mentorship #SmallBusiness #LocalBusiness #Networking #SupportLocal #WhereIsWally #BankstownCommunity #FactorySound #NSWGovernment

    17 min

  2. Apr 22

    The CBCC Voice Podcast Ep 16 Christine Nassif & Claudette Raad – The Inclusion Centre & Disability Advocacy

    Welcome to CBCC Voice Business Unbox! Today we're sitting down with two remarkable sisters and entrepreneurs, Christine Nassif and Claudette Raad, founders of The Inclusion Centre—an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with additional needs and empowering families through specialized behavior support and inclusive services. Christine is a behavior support practitioner and early intervention therapist, currently completing her Master's in Counselling. Claudette is a counselor and behaviour practitioner, also specializing in early intervention. Together, they're on a mission to bridge gaps in disability support and advocacy across Western Sydney. In this episode, Christine and Claudette share: How their personal journey with their nephew Elias inspired them to build The Inclusion CentreWhy early intervention is statistically one of the most successful forms of supportThe real barriers families face—cultural taboos, lack of language, and systemic gapsHow they balance running a business while being mothers themselvesTheir free advocacy work supporting domestic violence survivors and vulnerable familiesThe importance of inclusive workplaces and hiring people with disabilitiesThe challenges facing the NDIS and disability sector in AustraliaAn exciting new Disability & Autism Hub launching in September at Bankstown Sports ClubPhone: [Business phone number]Services: Behavior support, early intervention therapy, counselling, advocacyFree consultations availableWorkshops for schools and childcares on developmental milestonesChristine's personal story of being undiagnosed with ADHD as a child—and how that shaped her mission—is powerful. Claudette's journey of falling through the cracks and finding her voice through advocacy is equally inspiring. Key Takeaway: Early intervention works. Disability isn't taboo. And every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. Watch the full podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2SMTjMXyn3qvdZEepwWn4i6wc2QrjKWk&si=3QxIMJOIq3_6hSO- Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3SrxCKaKJSSQgsaCe7FcAW?si=Ua0LYYiXSJGte00S69sdqw Special thanks to Karma Germanos (www.karmagphotography.com.au, Follow: https://www.instagram.com/karmagphotography) for video editing and podcast production, www.instagram.com/contentbykarma, www.instagram.com/FactorySound for their support, and the NSW Government for sponsoring this podcast! 📢 Connect with The Inclusion Centre: Want to level up your business connections in Bankstown? Follow: https://www.instagram.com/cbchamber.org.au/ Start by becoming a CBCC member—discover all the benefits and join us at CBCC Membership or visit www.cbchamber.org.au. Save the Date: Disability & Autism Hub – September 2026 at Bankstown Sports Club Grand Ballroom. More details coming soon. If your child needs support, if you're struggling, if you need advocacy—reach out. Christine and Claudette are just a phone call away. Home - The Inclusion Centre Pty ltd #CBCCVoice #InclusionCentre #DisabilityAdvocacy #EarlyIntervention #BehaviourSupport #Neurodiversity #ADHD #AutismAwareness #BankstownBusiness #SupportLocal #CommunityFirst #MothersOfTheCommunity #FactorySound #NSWGovernment

    29 min

  3. Apr 1

    The CBCC Voice Podcast Ep15 Jessica Mudditt – Hembury Books & the Power of Publishing Your Story

    Welcome to CBCC Voice Business Unbox! Today we're diving into the world of publishing with Jessica Mudditt, author, journalist, and founder of Hembury Books—a hybrid publishing platform that's changing how stories get told.Jessica spent seven years overseas as an international journalist, writing for Forbes, BBC, and CNN. But after self-publishing her own memoirs and witnessing the barriers authors face, she had an epiphany: what if she could make publishing accessible to everyone?In this episode, Jessica shares:Her journey from freelance journalism to founding Hembury BooksWhy hybrid publishing is the best of both worlds (author control + professional support)The real stories behind her authors—from a woman who lost her arm in a flesh-eating bacteria accident to two survivors of Britain's worst serial killers, reunited after 47 years.Why imposter syndrome is the biggest hurdle first-time authors faceHow to know if you're ready to write a book (spoiler: you probably are)Jessica believes everyone has a story worth telling. Whether you're a business leader, a parent, or someone who's lived through extraordinary challenges, your voice matters. Hembury Books is making it possible to publish with confidence, creative control, and professional quality.Ready to become an author? Book a free 30-minute consultation with Jessica at Hembury Books. Start typing. Finish your book. Change your life.https://hemburybooks.com.au/Watch the full podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2SMTjMXyn3qvdZEepwWn4i6wc2QrjKWk&si=3QxIMJOIq3_6hSO-Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3SrxCKaKJSSQgsaCe7FcAW?si=Ua0LYYiXSJGte00S69sdqwSpecial thanks to Karma Germanos (www.karmagphotography.com.au, Follow: https://www.instagram.com/karmagphotography) for video editing and podcast production, www.instagram.com/contentbykarma, www.instagram.com/FactorySound for their support, and the NSW Government for sponsoring this podcast!📢 Connect with Jessica Mudditt & Hembury Books:Website: www.Hemburybooks.com.auBook your free consultation: https://hemburybooks.com.au/Learn more about hybrid publishing and workshopsWant to level up your business connections in Bankstown? Follow: https://www.instagram.com/cbchamber.org.au/Start by becoming a CBCC member—discover all the benefits and join us at CBCC Membership or visit www.cbchamber.org.au.Your story matters. Don't wait to tell it.#CBCCVoice #HembryBooks #PublishingIndustry #AuthorJourney #HybridPublishing #JessicaMudditt #BankstownBusiness #SupportLocal #WritersOfAustralia #StorytellingMatters #YouthWriters #FactorySound #NSWGovernment

    35 min

  4. Mar 25

    The CBCC Voice Podcast Ep 14: Three Generations Strong: Star East International on Innovation, Community & Building Legacy in HVAC

    Three Generations Strong: Star East International on Innovation, Community & Building Legacy in HVAC Three Generations Strong: Star East International on Innovation, Community & Building Legacy in HVAC In this episode of CBCC Voice Business Unbox, we're thrilled to welcome Jaden Nofal, Associate Director, and Andrew, Sales Manager, from Star East International—a tri-generational, family-owned HVAC and refrigeration company based right here in Padstow for over 30 years. From their humble beginnings in Lakemba to becoming a trusted partner for tradesmen across Australia and internationally, Jaden and Andrew share how Star East is leading innovation while staying true to their core values of community, education, and genuine human connection. Discover: The evolution of HVAC: eco-friendly refrigerants, AI-integrated products, and portable tech for tradies on the goWhy Star East refuses to compromise on safety and only works with licensed, qualified professionalsHow bridging technical and commercial expertise builds trust and solves real customer problemsThe power of knowing your customers by name (70-80% of their customer base!)Local, national, and international reach: trade counter, online platforms, eBay presence, and moreIndustry events like ARBS and ERA nights: building relationships that matterSupporting the next generation: education, licensing, and mentorship in the tradesCommunity impact: Peace Pole Initiative, Rotary Club involvement, and local partnershipsThe future of HVAC: AI, emerging refrigerants (R448), and collaborative growthA conversation about family legacy, problem-solving, and why staying human in business is everything. Special thanks to Karma Germanos (www.karmagphotography.com.au, Follow: https://www.instagram.com/karmagphotography) for video editing and podcast production, www.instagram.com/contentbykarma, www.instagram.com/FactorySound for their support, and the NSW Government for sponsoring this podcast! 📢 Are you a member or partner? Reach out and join the conversation.Want to level up your business connections in Bankstown? Follow: https://www.instagram.com/cbchamber.org.au/ Start by becoming a member—discover all the benefits and join us at CBCC Membership or visit www.cbchamber.org.au. Let your story be heard—unbox your business potential with us.#CBCCVoice #BankstownBusiness #CommunityFirst #BusinessPodcast #ChamberOfCommerce #StarEastInternational #HVAC #FamilyBusiness #Innovation #Sustainability #Trades #LocalBusiness #FactorySound #NSWGovernment Watch the full podcast series on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2SMTjMXyn3qvdZEepwWn4i6wc2QrjKWk&si=3QxIMJOIq3_6hSO-Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3SrxCKaKJSSQgsaCe7FcAW?si=Ua0LYYiXSJGte00S69sdqw

    29 min

  5. Mar 18

    The CBCC Voice Podcast Ep 13: Moving Communities Forward: UGO Mobility on Leadership, Innovation & Public Transport Excellence

    Moving Communities Forward: UGO Mobility on Leadership, Innovation & Public Transport Excellence Moving Communities Forward: UGO Mobility on Leadership, Innovation & Public Transport Excellence In this episode of CBCC Voice Business Unbox, we're thrilled to welcome Daniel Corbin, Managing Director, and Rhys Plater, Head of Customer and Community, from UGO Mobility—one of Greater Sydney's key public transport operators serving South and South West communities. Daniel and Rhys share their inspiring journeys from the UK to Australia, their leadership philosophies, and how UGO Mobility is transforming bus services through customer focus, workforce development, and genuine community partnership. Discover: Why starting as a bus driver shaped Daniel's leadership approach (21 years in the industry!) How listening to customers, drivers, and community drives continuous improvement The "Women Behind the Wheel" program and commitment to diverse, inclusive teams Training high-pressure situations: managing 55 school kids on a peak-hour bus Innovation in action: 70+ electric buses coming this year, with half the fleet electric within 18 months The power of saying "yes" to opportunities and figuring it out as you go Why public transport is about moving people, not just vehicles Collaboration with chambers, government, and community organisations From school safety programmes to AI-driven customer insights, UGO Mobility is proving that public transport can be personal, innovative, and community-centred. Special thanks to Karma Germanos (www.karmagphotography.com.au, Follow: https://www.instagram.com/karmagphotography) for video editing and podcast production, www.instagram.com/contentbykarma, www.instagram.com/FactorySound for their support, and the NSW Government for sponsoring this podcast! 📢 Are you a member or partner? Reach out and join the conversation. Want to level up your business connections in Bankstown? Follow: https://www.instagram.com/cbchamber.org.au/ Start by becoming a member—discover all the benefits and join us at CBCC Membership or visit www.cbchamber.org.au. Let your story be heard—unbox your business potential with us. #CBCCVoice #BankstownBusiness #CommunityFirst #BusinessPodcast #ChamberOfCommerce #UGOMobility #PublicTransport #Leadership #Innovation #ElectricBuses #SustainableTransport #WomenInTransport #FactorySound #NSWGovernment Watch the full podcast series on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2SMTjMXyn3qvdZEepwWn4i6wc2QrjKWk&si=3QxIMJOIq3_6hSO- Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3SrxCKaKJSSQgsaCe7FcAW?si=Ua0LYYiXSJGte00S69sdqw

    36 min

  6. Mar 11

    The CBCC Voice Podcast Ep 12: Beyond the Normal: Antoinette Khalil on Building a Values-Driven Legal Practice & Elevating Bankstown

    Beyond the Normal: Antoinette Khalil on Building a Values-Driven Legal Practice & Elevating Bankstown In this episode of CBCC Voice Business Unbox, we're honoured to welcome Antoinette Khalil, Principal Lawyer and Founder of Khalil Lawyers, to our brand new headquarters and she's our very first guest in the boardroom! Antoinette shares her remarkable journey from a male-dominated legal industry to building a thriving, values-driven law firm that puts heart and human connection at the centre of everything. She opens up about: Why she left corporate law to create "beyond the normal" client experiencesBuilding a unique practice that bridges commercial and family law—a gap she discovered and filledBalancing motherhood, business ownership, and leadership as Chair of the Entrepreneurship CommitteeThe power of resilience, mentorship, and surrounding yourself with the right peopleHer vision to elevate Bankstown as a destination for top-tier professional servicesWhy the Bulldogs sponsorship is about creating pathways and acts of kindnessAdvice for women entrepreneurs: believe in yourself, find your purpose, and never walk aloneFrom her early days as a shy networker to leading the charge for entrepreneurship in our region, Antoinette's story is one of passion, strategy, and unwavering commitment to community. Special thanks to Karma Germanos (www.karmagphotography.com.au, Follow: https://www.instagram.com/karmagphotography) for video editing and podcast production, www.instagram.com/contentbykarma, www.instagram.com/FactorySound for their support, and the NSW Government for sponsoring this podcast! 📢 Are you a member or partner? Reach out and join the conversation.Want to level up your business connections in Bankstown? Follow: https://www.instagram.com/cbchamber.org.au/ Start by becoming a member—discover all the benefits and join us at CBCC Membership or visit www.cbchamber.org.au. Let your story be heard—unbox your business potential with us.#CBCCVoice #BankstownBusiness #CommunityFirst #BusinessPodcast #ChamberOfCommerce #AntoinetteKhalil #KhalilLawyers #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #LegalExpertise #FactorySound #NSWGovernmentWatch the full podcast series on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2SMTjMXyn3qvdZEepwWn4i6wc2QrjKWk&si=3QxIMJOIq3_6hSO-Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3SrxCKaKJSSQgsaCe7FcAW?si=Ua0LYYiXSJGte00S69sdqw

    33 min

  7. 12/30/2025

    The CBCC Voice Podcast Ep 11 Tina Ayyad Member for Holsworthy

    Tina’s Tea Time: Leadership, Community & the Future of Holsworthy and South West Sydney Tina’s Tea Time: Leadership, Community & the Future of Holsworthy and South West Sydney In this episode of CBCC Voice Business Unbox, Karma and Wally visit the Holsworthy Electorate Office to sit down with Tina Ayyad, Member for Holsworthy and Shadow Assistant Minister for the South West and for Health. Tina shares her journey from local council and Deputy Mayor of Liverpool to State Parliament, and what it means to truly “immerse yourself” in the community you represent. Together, they unpack: Community-focused leadership and open-door representation in HolsworthyBalancing public life, motherhood, and family with a demanding political roleThe future of South West Sydney: metro links, better buses, roads, and unlocking the Georges River as “the playground of the south west”Housing, cost of living, and the realities facing local families and pensionersWomen in leadership: breaking labels, backing yourself, and making space at the tableYouth, skills, trades, entrepreneurship and the power of local universities and TAFEThe importance of chambers, local organisations and collaboration in filling the gaps where government can’t reachFrom “Tina’s Tea Time” to the vision for a River Run along the Georges River, this conversation is full of heart, honesty, and practical ideas for a better future in Holsworthy and across the south west. Special thanks to Karma Germanos (www.karmagphotography.com.au, Follow: https://www.instagram.com/karmagphotography) for video editing and podcast production, www.instagram.com/contentbykarma, www.instagram.com/FactorySound for their support, and the NSW Government for sponsoring this podcast! 📢 Are you a member or partner? Reach out and join the conversation.Want to level up your business connections in Bankstown? Follow: https://www.instagram.com/cbchamber.org.au/ Start by becoming a member—discover all the benefits and join us at CBCC Membership or visit www.cbchamber.org.au. Let your story be heard—unbox your business potential with us.#CBCCVoice #BankstownBusiness #CommunityFirst #BusinessPodcast #ChamberOfCommerce #TinaAyyad #Holsworthy #SouthWestSydney #WomenInLeadership #YouthEmployment #GeorgesRiver #FactorySound #NSWGovernment Watch the full podcast series on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2SMTjMXyn3qvdZEepwWn4i6wc2QrjKWk&si=3QxIMJOIq3_6hSO-Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3SrxCKaKJSSQgsaCe7FcAW?si=Ua0LYYiXSJGte00S69sdqw

    38 min

  8. 12/23/2025

    The CBCC Voice Podcast Ep 10 The My Guardian Story with Jad & Diala

    NEW PODCAST EPISODE: Heart-Centered Care – The My Guardian Story with Jad & DialaThis week on CBCC Voice Business Unbox, we sit down with Jad and Diala, founders of my Guardian, to explore how compassion, innovation, and genuine human connection have transformed aged care and disability support in Australia.Discover how my Guardian grew from a volunteer-driven dream into one of the nation’s most trusted care providers—serving thousands of families and building a team culture where every person matters. Jad and Diala share their journey, the challenges, and the importance of staying true to their values as they scale up, invest in quality, and give back through community partnerships and their Bridges of Hope Foundation. https://www.myguardian.com.au/ 🎙️ In this episode:Building a values-driven care organisation from the ground upWhy family, diversity, and heart are at the centre of everything they doLessons in leadership, resilience, and giving back.The power of technology, innovation, and adapting for the futureAdvice for entrepreneurs: lead with your heart, serve your community Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2SMTjMXyn3qvdZEepwWn4i6wc2QrjKWk&si=3QxIMJOIq3_6hSO- Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3SrxCKaKJSSQgsaCe7FcAW?si=Ua0LYYiXSJGte00S69sdqw Special thanks to Karma Germanos (www.karmagphotography.com.au, Follow: https://www.instagram.com/karmagphotography) for video editing and podcast production, www.instagram.com/contentbykarma, www.instagram.com/FactorySound for their support, and the NSW Government for sponsoring this podcast! 📢 Are you a member or partner? Reach out and join the conversation. Want to level up your business connections in Bankstown? Follow: https://www.instagram.com/cbchamber.org.au/Start by becoming a member—discover all the benefits and join us at CBCC Membership or visit www.cbchamber.org.au. Let your story be heard—unbox your business potential with us. #CBCCVoice #BankstownBusiness #CommunityFirst #BusinessPodcast #ChamberOfCommerce #MyGuardian #AgedCare #DisabilitySupport #Leadership #SocialImpact #FactorySound #NSWGovernment

    34 min
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About

Welcome to the Canterbury Bankstown Chamber of Commerce Podcast! We share real stories from local business owners and community leaders—covering their struggles, wins, and expert tips. If you’re looking for inspiration, practical advice, or a sense of community in your business journey, you’re in the right place. Join us as we connect, learn, and grow together. Want to share your story or expertise? Reach out and join the conversation!

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