Building Doors with Lauren Karan

Lauren Karan
Building Doors with Lauren Karan

Building Doors is a podcast about Inspiring Leaders who have created their own opportunities and are thought leaders, industry advocates and change makers in their field. This podcast gives you the resources, insights and steps to stop waiting for opportunities and start building your doors for success. Listen to this podcast to gain the resources, career tips and hands-on advice on how you can gain clarity and build doors in your own life and career.

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    55. Learning from the next generation of leadership with Mary Camus.

    In this episode of The Building Doors Podcast, Mary Camus shares her growth and leadership lessons coming from an entry-level role through to managing a national teams. Mary shares her own personal journey of  finding the right opportunities, mentors and embracing the discomfort involved in her own personal growth.  In this episode we discuss the emerging trends in the next generation of leadership.  We also discuss real and practical application of modern leadership principles; from managing young, hybrid teams to integrating sustainability into business strategy.  Mary addresses the challenges of imposter syndrome and self-doubt, providing practical advice on how leaders can stay focused, build resilient teams, and create impactful, lasting change. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Leadership for the Next Generation: Strategies for managing young, hybrid teams and fostering connection in flexible work environments.Overcoming Self-Doubt as a Leader: Mary’s personal journey with imposter syndrome and the power of vulnerability in building authentic relationships.Sustainability in Leadership: How leaders can drive strategic, sustainable change that aligns with business goals and social impact.Gender Equity and Leadership Representation: Insights into closing the gender data gap and fostering equitable workplaces.Mary Camus has grown her career building teams, driving growth, and making an early impact.  From her onset roles in construction and real estate to her current position managing a national team, Mary’s story is a testament to harnessing the power of self growth and adaptability. Selected as an Australian representative at the One Year World Summit, she’s passionate about creating a better future through responsible sustainable leadership and social impact.  Mary’s practical advice and personal insights will resonate first time leaders who are facing the challenges of growing teams, adapting to new trends, and driving positive change.  Whether you’re leading a small team or an entire organisation, her perspective will help you refine your approach to leadership and sustainability for a better tomorrow. About Mary Camus:  About your host: Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co. With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the outdated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development. Lauren believes that if opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors Podcast. The Building Doors Podcast is for leaders and professionals who want to unlock their potential, overcome challenges, and create meaningful impact in their careers. Help someone else Build Doors in their career: 💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts. 🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify. Get more help to Build Doors in your own life: 🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn. 📝 Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter. Want to support the show? Hit ‘Follow.’Leave a 5-star rating.Share this episode with a colleague or team member.Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕 Time to stop waiting and start building… In case you missed it: You can listen to our previous episode here. 👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast, get in touch with us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.

    31 min
  2. NOV 10

    54. "Winning Hearts and Minds: Richard Austin's Blueprint for Transformative Leadership Across Industries

    In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, we dive into a transformative conversation with Richard Austin, CEO of Omni. Richard shares his journey across industries, from hospitality and insurance to construction, unpacking the values and principles that have guided him through each transition.  He opens up about his approach to aligning with organisations that reflect his values, the importance of situational leadership, and the keys to creating a fulfilling career. We also are privileged with a deeply personal glimpse of into Richard’s family’s journey through IVF and the powerful impact of unexpected connections. Richard is a seasoned management and business development expert based in Australia, recognized for his achievements in digital innovation and customer-focused strategies. With extensive experience across sectors like Financial Services, Supply Chain Management, and Media, he has a proven record of driving market growth. As a specialist in change management, Richard is valued as a consultant, coach, and mentor, known for aligning organizations with a unified vision for success. He holds an MBA from the University of South Australia, completed studies at Harvard Business School, and is pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security and Data Analytics from Griffith University. Certified in Social Style and Situational Leadership, he demonstrates a strong commitment to continuous learning. Richard’s leadership has established him as an authority in best practices for business development, adept at navigating complex business landscapes to deliver impactful results for clients. In this episode we explore: How to transfer industries and apply the same recipe for success in your rolesWhy aligning your values with the companies you choose to work for is crucial for wellbeingThe importance of the "barbeque test" as the culture check test Strategies in adopting situational leadership techniquesInvesting in the right team training for long term successThe impact of inspirational giving on Richard's families IVF journey Richard Austin’s journey is a masterclass in adaptability, empathy, and resilience. His commitment to lifelong learning, aligning with meaningful work, and sharing his story to inspire others offers valuable insights for anyone looking to make a career shift, lead more effectively, or deepen their personal growth journey. Tune in to learn how Richard’s values and experiences continue to shape his approach to business and life and discover actionable insights to help you find alignment in your own career. Connect with Richard Austin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardwaustin/ About your host:   Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co. With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development. Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.  The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential. Help someone else Build Doors in their career. 💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts 🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify  Get more help to Build Doors in your own life  🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn 📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that  Want to support the show? 1. Hit ‘Follow’.      2. Leave a 5-star rat

    45 min
  3. OCT 27

    53. Unlocking Career Success: Lydia Gentle’s Blueprint for Values-Driven Leadership

    In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, we sit down with Lydia Gentle, a seasoned engineering professional who shares her journey of over 20 years in the industry. Discover the importance of aligning your career with personal values, the power of continuous learning, and how to navigate work-life balance.  Lydia emphasises the significance of kindness and community involvement, both in the workplace and at home. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a change, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone eager to grow and thrive in their professional and personal life.  Lydia is a Chartered Professional Engineer with over 20 years of experience in engineering consultancy, construction, and mining globally. Currently, she is the Portfolio Delivery Manager for BHP’s Australian Coal Operations.  Previously, she served as Maintenance Manager at a major coal mine and Engineering Manager for various projects. An Order of Australia Medal recipient, Lydia is also the youngest Australian to achieve Engineering Executive status with Engineers Australia.  She holds a Master of Engineering and is completing a Senior Executive MBA. Lydia is passionate about fostering diversity and building team culture in the resources sector through educational initiatives. In this episode we explore: The value of early career sacrifice for long term successHow to be intentional in your career and prioritise knowledge and growth.Defining your values and the importance of aligning your career path with themExploring diverse opportunities and pathways on offer with EngineeringThe importance of great work coupled with great relationships Join us on the Building Doors Podcast as we dive into navigating your career with intention and the value of lifelong learning. Lydia shares insights on balancing work and personal values, the importance of kindness in shaping success, and how to find your unique path in engineering. Whether you’re starting out or looking to shift gears, this conversation offers valuable perspectives. Connect with Lydia Gentle: LinkedIn: You can connect with Lydia here About your host:   Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co. With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development. Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.  The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.   Help someone else Build Doors in their career. 💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts 🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify   Get more help to Build Doors in your own life  🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn 📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that   Want to support the show? 1. Hit ‘Follow’.      2. Leave a 5-star rating.     3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too). Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕   Time to stop waiting and start building…      In case you missed it: You can listen to our previous episode here  👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.

    34 min
  4. OCT 13

    52. From the Fast Lane to the Boardroom: Evan Black on Navigating Leadership Through Turbulent Times

    Evan Black is a business coach who brings over 30 years of senior management experience, spanning roles from Sales and Marketing to CEO and Managing Director in both privately owned and billion-dollar listed companies.  He started a career in health working as a registered nurse and then later moved into race car driving.  This holistic experience led to a career leading companies through significant challenging times and getting hands on in leading through challenging market conditions.   It is through personal experience changing career paths that Evan remains a strong advocate for transferrable skills, career transitions and implementing practical business tips.    Evan's expertise lies in fostering high-performance cultures, developing top talent, and implementing effective strategies to help businesses reach their goals. In this episode we focus on some of the aspects of managing a business through hard times such as:  When toxic employees kills business profits and how to stop itAccountability and transparency as essential skills to build a high performance team Embracing vulnerability to build strength in hard times of leadershipTuning back into our intuition to guide decisions Separating our personal identity from business identity to drive the right balance Scheduled reflection as crucial for any leadership growth Tackling challenge of building psychological safety in the workplace and how we can foster it Join us as Evan shares his unique experiences and practical strategies for navigating the complexities of leadership.  Tune in for valuable takeaways that can transform your approach and to embrace our human instincts for improved business performance.    Connect with Evan Black: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-black   About your host:   Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co. With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development. Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.   The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life.  Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.   Help someone else Build Doors in their career. 💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts 🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify   Get more help to Build Doors in your own life 🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn  📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that   Want to support the show? 1. Hit ‘Follow’.      2. Leave a 5-star rating.     3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too). Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕   Time to stop waiting and start building…      In case you missed it: You can listen to our previous episode here   👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.

    42 min
  5. SEP 29

    51. Angus Ferguson: From a Career in Soccer to Scaling and Selling a $25M Tech Start-Up

    In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, Lauren welcomes Angus Ferguson, who shares his intriguing journey from a humble upbringing in Echuca and soccer scholarship in Caulfield Grammar, to creating and selling a tech start-up for $25 million.  Angus talks about the values instilled in him by his family, the pivotal experiences in playing soccer in the U.S., and transitioning into real estate.  He discusses the challenges and lessons learned from founding and scaling a technology startup, including the importance of culture, hiring for fit, and fostering company values.  Angus delves into his personal life, the balance between work and family, and the impact of becoming a parent on his leadership style. This episode provides a fascinating mix of personal anecdotes, business insights, and reflections on growth and leadership. Angus is a successful entrepreneur who sold his business to Domain for $25 million five years ago. He is the Head of Customer Solutions at Domain and is recognised by the Australian Financial Review as a BOSS Young Executive of 2023 as an influential young leader in Australia.  In this episode we explore: How humble beginnings build resilienceWhy sporting success led to business excellenceTop tips for successfully scaling to sellHiring for company cultureManaging change through mergers and acquisitionsAdapting leadership from small to scaled teamsTeam empowerment and why it's crucialWhat parenting teaches us about leadershipJoin us on the Building Doors podcast as Angus Ferguson unpacks his fascinating transition from soccer to tech and real estate. He shares invaluable insights on scaling businesses, preserving culture during mergers, and mastering effective leadership. Discover how passion, resilience, and strategic hiring can turn challenges into opportunities and drive success. Tune in for a masterclass in leadership and growth. Connect with Angus Ferguson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angus-ferguson-00555657/?originalSubdomain=au About your host:   Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co. With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development. Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.  The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential. Help someone else Build Doors in their career. 💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts 🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify Get more help to Build Doors in your own life  🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn 📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that   Want to support the show? 1. Hit ‘Follow’.      2. Leave a 5-star rating.     3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too). Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕   Time to stop waiting and start building…      In case you missed it: You can listen to our previous episode here    👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.

    37 min
  6. SEP 15

    50. Building a Better Future: Productivity, Innovation, and Industry Insights with Andrew Chapman

    In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan speaks with Andrew Chapman, a prominent figure in the construction industry and the CEO of the Queensland Major Contractors Association (QMCA).  Andrew addresses the significant productivity decline in the sector over the past decade, driven by shifts from private to public sector projects and evolving regulations. He underscores the need for innovation and improved project sequencing.  He also shares personal anecdotes and his vision for a more efficient and appealing industry.  Andrew is a civil engineer with extensive experience across the entire project lifecycle—from planning and design to construction and maintenance. His career includes roles at Seymour Whyte, Thiess, GHD, and Transfield Services. As CEO of QMCA, Andrew leads the organization representing major construction and civil engineering firms in Queensland. In this episode we explore: Family experiences and the importance of underlying passion in your career of choiceThe productivity decline over the last 5 years and what needs to change Why we should be avoiding boom-bust cycles with better planningHow our industry standards and agreements impact productivity The goals of innovating and attracting talent for a better industry.In this episode, Andrew provides a deep dive into the challenges facing the construction industry, from productivity issues to regulatory impacts. He advocates for embracing innovation and effective project management to improve the industry. His personal and professional insights offer a compelling look at his commitment to creating a better, more efficient industry. Connect with Andrew Chapman: LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-chapman-30711216 About your host:   Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co. With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children. In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development. Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.  The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential. Help someone else Build Doors in their career. 💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts 🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify Get more help to Build Doors in your own life  🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn 📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that Want to support the show? 1. Hit ‘Follow’.      2. Leave a 5-star rating.     3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too). Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕  Time to stop waiting and start building…      In case you missed it: You can listen to our previous episode here  👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.

    56 min
  7. SEP 1

    49. Redefining Work-Life Balance: Vincent Williams’ Journey with Tungsten

    In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Vincent Williams, founder of Tungsten, to explore actionable strategies for enhancing productivity.  Vincent reveals how adopting a four-day work week has reshaped his company’s culture and efficiency. In this episode we dive into: Implementing a Four-Day Work Week: Discover how this bold move led to higher productivity and improved employee satisfaction.Overcoming Adaptation Challenges: Learn practical strategies for adjusting to new work habits and integrating them into your business model.Customer-Centric Strategies: Understand how focusing on customer needs can drive success while maintaining a balanced work environment.Balancing Business and Family Life: Gain insights into managing professional responsibilities alongside family commitments.Innovative Leadership Techniques: Explore leadership practices that foster a productive and engaged workforce.Vincent’s journey from Brisbane to Utah and the evolution of Tungsten offer valuable lessons on driving operational efficiency and work-life balance.  Tune in for practical advice and real-world examples that you can apply to your own business.  Connect with Vincent Williams: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vince-williams Website:  https://www.tungsten.com.au   About your host:   Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co. With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan found that her priorities rapidly changed after the birth of her two children.  In 2022 she founded Karan & Co flipping the out-dated recruitment model with a focus on retention through career coaching and development. Lauren believes that If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door – and it’s this same philosophy that inspired her to create the Building Doors podcast.   The Building Doors podcast is for anyone undergoing a transformation in their life. Regardless of whether you feel stuck in your current role, need some inspiration on what steps to take next, want to learn how to level up as a business owner or simply want to listen to the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals, the Building Doors podcast is all about unlocking your potential.   Help someone else Build Doors in their career. 💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts 🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify   Get more help to Build Doors in your own life 🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn  📝 Building Doors newsletter: subscribe to that   Want to support the show? 1. Hit ‘Follow’.      2. Leave a 5-star rating.     3. Share this episode with a friend (this will help the podcast get discovered by more people so they can Build Doors in their lives too). Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕   Time to stop waiting and start building…      In case you missed it: You can listen to our previous episode here   👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast get in touch with us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.

    48 min
  8. AUG 18

    48. Mastering Leadership: No Bullsh!t Strategies with Martin Moore

    In this insightful episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan is joined by Martin G. Moore, the former CEO of CS Energy, who transformed the company from struggling under massive debt to achieving a staggering compound annual growth rate of 125%.  Marty’s journey is a testament to the power of effective leadership, strategic communication, and the delicate balance between empathy and accountability. During their conversation, Marty dives deep into the complexities of leadership, especially the challenges faced when transitioning from a peer to a leadership role in team environments.  He stresses the need to rebuild relationships and set clear expectations to ensure fairness in the workplace.  Marty also tackles the sensitive issue of managing mental health in the workplace, offering a personalised approach that balances compassion with performance management. Marty’s practical advice, drawn from his personal experiences, provides invaluable guidance for leaders at all levels.  From avoiding assumptions about employees' needs to fostering a culture of direct communication and trust, this episode is packed with actionable insights that can help you build a resilient and high-performing team. In this episode, we explore: Transitioning through Leadership Levels: Marty’s strategies for moving from peer to supervisor and resetting relationships.Setting Clear Expectations: The role of clear communication in creating a standard of expectation in teams. Integrating Performance and Mental Health: Marty’s approach to merging performance management with mental health support.Building Trust: How to establish credibility by resetting relationships and setting boundaries across all levels. Practical Leadership Advice: Real-world strategies for overcoming the most common leadership challenges across all levels. Marty Moore’s insights into leadership transitions and mental health management provide a roadmap for building stronger, more resilient teams.  Tune in to this episode of the Building Doors Podcast to learn how you can implement these strategies to navigate complexity in your role and build a culture of success.  Connect with Marty Moore: LinkedIn: Martin G. MooreWebsite: No Bullsh!t LeadershipAbout your host: Lauren Karan, Director, and Founder of Karan & Co. With over a decade of experience as a recruiter and development coach, Lauren Karan founded Karan & Co in 2022, shifting focus to retention through career coaching and development. Inspired by her philosophy that “If opportunity doesn’t knock, you have to build a door,” she created the Building Doors podcast to help others unlock their potential. Help someone else Build Doors in their career. 💕 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts 🙏 Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify Get more help to Build Doors in your own life: 🎬 Follow us on LinkedIn 📝 Building Doors newsletter: Subscribe Want to support the show? Hit ‘Follow’.Leave a 5-star rating.Share this episode with a friend to help the podcast reach more people.Thank you for your support! It truly means a lot. 💕 Time to stop waiting and start building… 👋 To say hello, provide feedback, or express interest in a guest appearance on The Building Doors Podcast, get in touch with us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.

    1h 6m

About

Building Doors is a podcast about Inspiring Leaders who have created their own opportunities and are thought leaders, industry advocates and change makers in their field. This podcast gives you the resources, insights and steps to stop waiting for opportunities and start building your doors for success. Listen to this podcast to gain the resources, career tips and hands-on advice on how you can gain clarity and build doors in your own life and career.

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