No Hair Just Finance

No Hair Just Finance

Welcome to the "No Hair, Just Finance" podcast, hosted by two follically challenged finance professionals, JP Gortan and Dino Pacella and our equally follically challenged producer, Menners. Join us for some great stories and a few laughs as we spotlight remarkable individuals from within the finance industry and beyond, sharing their inspiring and captivating stories. Whether it’s a journey from rags to riches or an expedition rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, join us as we delve into the adventures that weave the fabric of our industry.  Jean-Pierre Gortan, a 25 year industry veteran, founder of Simplicity Loans & Advisory. He holds a number industry awards including 2023 Australian Broker of Year & Commercial Broker of the Year. JP is often mistaken for a financial oracle, might attribute his predictive prowess to the lack of hair interference.   Meanwhile, Dino Pacella, known for his uncanny ability to make even the driest financial regulations seem interesting, claims it's his bald head that gives him the unique perspective. Dino’s passion for the broking industry led him to establish National Finance Brokers Day back in 2015 which has become a nationally recognised event which continues to raise the awareness of finance brokers, assist more consumers, educate brokers to level up, along with celebrating the work of over 25,000 people who are employed within the broking industry. Andrew Menczel (aka Menners) is the producer and founded Piccolo Podcasts in 2019. He is also the host of the 'Cricket Unfiltered Podcast' and is a cricket commentator in Australia on both men’s and women’s matches. He has interviewed 15 Australian captains and numerous cricketers. He is also an award winning interviewer and podcast producer.

  1. 06/10/2025

    Shiny Podcast Syndrome *Season Finale*

    In the final episode of the year we take YOUR questions! JP, Dino and Menners look back on the first year of the podcast and answer your questions including AI's role in personal finance and how to deal with challenges in your business. We also have a cracking 'Confused and Motivated' with Dino to end the year, and JP does some self-reflection. Jean-Pierre (JP) is a distinguished co-founder of the SLA Group of companies, with over two decades of expertise in lending and banking. His journey is defined by spearheading intricate commercial transactions within the organisation. JP’s extensive portfolio covers a wide range of lending transactions, including substantial commercial investment loans, leverage deals, structured equipment finance, and construction loans, some exceeding $750 million. In summary, Jean-Pierre is a luminary in commercial lending, celebrated for his leadership, extensive experience, and a record of accolades that reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. With his recent awards in 2023, he continues to set the standard in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgortan/ His journey, marked by both business failures and personal successes, has forged him into a passionate individual with resilience and determination at his core. Notably, Dino established National Finance Brokers Day in 2015, further reflecting his dedication to raising awareness in the finance industry. For more information, please visit the website at:  https://www.nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au/ Podcast Producer: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/

    43 min
  2. 06/10/2025

    Tas Costi: Buyers Agent to the Stars

    In this episode we discuss the commercial property market, highlighting the insights of Tas Costi, co-founder of Costi Cohen, a commercial buyer's agency. Tas shares his experience, noting the current buyer's market and the importance of off-market deals. The conversation also touches on the impact of interest rates, the challenges of managing client expectations, and the importance of a high-end service in the real estate industry. Jean-Pierre (JP) is a distinguished co-founder of the SLA Group of companies, with over two decades of expertise in lending and banking. His journey is defined by spearheading intricate commercial transactions within the organisation. JP’s extensive portfolio covers a wide range of lending transactions, including substantial commercial investment loans, leverage deals, structured equipment finance, and construction loans, some exceeding $750 million. In summary, Jean-Pierre is a luminary in commercial lending, celebrated for his leadership, extensive experience, and a record of accolades that reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. With his recent awards in 2023, he continues to set the standard in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgortan/ His journey, marked by both business failures and personal successes, has forged him into a passionate individual with resilience and determination at his core. Notably, Dino established National Finance Brokers Day in 2015, further reflecting his dedication to raising awareness in the finance industry. For more information, please visit the website at:  https://www.nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au/ Podcast Producer: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/

    53 min
  3. 06/10/2025

    Australia's Most Bizarre Crimes: Peter Coleman

    This episode of No Hair Just Finance, we’re excited to have Dr Peter Coleman as our guest. Peter holds a PhD in cultural studies from Monash University, where he also tutored in Eastern religion and philosophy. After transitioning from academia, he embarked on a career in the not-for-profit sector, where he now works as a consultant. Beyond his professional career, Peter is a registered marriage celebrant and even an occasional tarot-card reader. Peter's latest book, Australia's Most Bizarre Crimes, was published in July of this year and is available in all good bookstores through Affirm Press. Jean-Pierre (JP) is a distinguished co-founder of the SLA Group of companies, with over two decades of expertise in lending and banking. His journey is defined by spearheading intricate commercial transactions within the organisation. JP’s extensive portfolio covers a wide range of lending transactions, including substantial commercial investment loans, leverage deals, structured equipment finance, and construction loans, some exceeding $750 million. In summary, Jean-Pierre is a luminary in commercial lending, celebrated for his leadership, extensive experience, and a record of accolades that reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. With his recent awards in 2023, he continues to set the standard in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgortan/ His journey, marked by both business failures and personal successes, has forged him into a passionate individual with resilience and determination at his core. Notably, Dino established National Finance Brokers Day in 2015, further reflecting his dedication to raising awareness in the finance industry. For more information, please visit the website at:  https://www.nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au/ Podcast Producer: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/

    57 min
  4. 10/14/2024

    Shining a Light on a Dark Reality: Natalie Galcsik

    Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). In this special episode of No Hair Just Finance, we confront the devastating epidemic of violence against women, an issue that demands urgent action. We reflect on the tragic loss of Natalie Galcsik, a loving mother of five, whose life was taken by her husband in late September. Through this heartbreaking story, we explore the profound impact of domestic violence on families and communities, while asking a critical question—are the government's current initiatives enough to protect those at risk?  Joining us for this important discussion are two remarkable guests. Simone Allan, the founder of the Women's Resilience Centre, shares her insights on how this vital organisation is working to support survivors and foster long-term healing. We are also honoured to speak with Lisa McAdams, an extraordinary individual who has overcome domestic violence and now uses her voice to inspire change. As a survivor and author of two books on the topic, Lisa brings both personal experience and deep expertise to the conversation.  This episode aims to raise awareness, spark meaningful dialogue, and push for real change to prevent future tragedies. Simone Alan: https://www.womensresiliencecentre.com.au/ Lisa McAdams: https://safespaceworkplace.com/  Jean-Pierre (JP) is a distinguished co-founder of the SLA Group of companies, with over two decades of expertise in lending and banking. His journey is defined by spearheading intricate commercial transactions within the organisation. JP’s extensive portfolio covers a wide range of lending transactions, including substantial commercial investment loans, leverage deals, structured equipment finance, and construction loans, some exceeding $750 million. In summary, Jean-Pierre is a luminary in commercial lending, celebrated for his leadership, extensive experience, and a record of accolades that reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. With his recent awards in 2023, he continues to set the standard in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgortan/ His journey, marked by both business failures and personal successes, has forged him into a passionate individual with resilience and determination at his core. Notably, Dino established National Finance Brokers Day in 2015, further reflecting his dedication to raising awareness in the finance industry. For more information, please visit the website at:  https://www.nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au/ Podcast Producer: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/

    56 min
  5. 10/07/2024

    Winning World Cups with Former Wallaby Jeremy Paul

    Jeremy Paul played 72 tests for the Wallabies at hooker and is one of its most decorated players. Jeremy shares some great stories from his time as a player, including winning and losing World Cup Finals. He also gives insights into the secrets of his success during and post his playing career. Jean-Pierre (JP) is a distinguished co-founder of the SLA Group of companies, with over two decades of expertise in lending and banking. His journey is defined by spearheading intricate commercial transactions within the organisation. JP’s extensive portfolio covers a wide range of lending transactions, including substantial commercial investment loans, leverage deals, structured equipment finance, and construction loans, some exceeding $750 million. In summary, Jean-Pierre is a luminary in commercial lending, celebrated for his leadership, extensive experience, and a record of accolades that reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. With his recent awards in 2023, he continues to set the standard in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgortan/ His journey, marked by both business failures and personal successes, has forged him into a passionate individual with resilience and determination at his core. Notably, Dino established National Finance Brokers Day in 2015, further reflecting his dedication to raising awareness in the finance industry. For more information, please visit the website at:  https://www.nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au/ Podcast Producer: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/

    55 min
  6. 09/23/2024

    Insights & Interventions

    In this episode we bring you some insights from Mark Bouris and James Symond who spoke at National Finance Brokers Day earlier this year, JP also asks for our help via an intervention, and Dino brings you another valuable 'Confused & Motivated'. Jean-Pierre (JP) is a distinguished co-founder of the SLA Group of companies, with over two decades of expertise in lending and banking. His journey is defined by spearheading intricate commercial transactions within the organisation. JP’s extensive portfolio covers a wide range of lending transactions, including substantial commercial investment loans, leverage deals, structured equipment finance, and construction loans, some exceeding $750 million. In summary, Jean-Pierre is a luminary in commercial lending, celebrated for his leadership, extensive experience, and a record of accolades that reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. With his recent awards in 2023, he continues to set the standard in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgortan/ His journey, marked by both business failures and personal successes, has forged him into a passionate individual with resilience and determination at his core. Notably, Dino established National Finance Brokers Day in 2015, further reflecting his dedication to raising awareness in the finance industry. For more information, please visit the website at:  https://www.nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au/ Podcast Producer: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/

    39 min
  7. 09/09/2024

    Brendan's Story: A Battle for Health and Justice

    If you found this episode troubling seek help here:  Lifeline: 13 11 14 National Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858 This episode is brought to you by: Secured Lending In this powerful episode of "No Hair Just Finance," we sit down with Brendan O’Sullivan, who bravely shares his journey through a deeply challenging time in his life. Brendan suffers from a debilitating condition that made it nearly impossible for him to sleep, leading to significant personal and emotional turmoil. In the 2000s, Brendan was prescribed a drug to manage his symptoms. However, what he didn’t know was that this medication had severe psychological side effects that drastically altered his personality. The consequences were devastating, ultimately leading to the breakup of his marriage.  Brendan's story is not only one of personal struggle but also of a fight for justice. He was part of a class action, holding a pharmaceutical giant responsible for the financial loss and suffering caused by their failure to disclose these side effects. Although the pharmaceutical company initially agreed to a settlement, they later took the case to the Federal Court, where the parties received no compensation, despite some having lost millions.  Despite the hardships, Brendan's journey is also one of hope and triumph – slowly piecing his lift back together. Through extensive personal research and with the help of doctors willing to explore unorthodox treatments, Brendan has found a way to control his symptoms and reclaim his life.  By sharing his story, Brendan aims to provide comfort and guidance to others who may be suffering similarly. This episode is dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges faced by those affected by such conditions and offering a pathway to treatment and justice. Tune in to hear Brendan’s courageous tale and learn about his ongoing battle for health and justice. Jean-Pierre (JP) is a distinguished co-founder of the SLA Group of companies, with over two decades of expertise in lending and banking. His journey is defined by spearheading intricate commercial transactions within the organisation. JP’s extensive portfolio covers a wide range of lending transactions, including substantial commercial investment loans, leverage deals, structured equipment finance, and construction loans, some exceeding $750 million. In summary, Jean-Pierre is a luminary in commercial lending, celebrated for his leadership, extensive experience, and a record of accolades that reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. With his recent awards in 2023, he continues to set the standard in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgortan/ His journey, marked by both business failures and personal successes, has forged him into a passionate individual with resilience and determination at his core. Notably, Dino established National Finance Brokers Day in 2015, further reflecting his dedication to raising awareness in the finance industry. For more information, please visit the website at:  https://www.nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au/ Podcast Producer: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/

    50 min
  8. 08/26/2024

    'I Felt Absolutely Helpless'

    This week JP reflects on his courageous run across the desert to raise money for charity, and Dino looks back on another successful 'National Finance Brokers Day' event last week. In a Big Hairy Questions we are joined by Julian Fadini from PRPTY360, Michael Barrington-Smith from Zagga and Jason Arnold from Pallas Capital. Jean-Pierre (JP) is a distinguished co-founder of the SLA Group of companies, with over two decades of expertise in lending and banking. His journey is defined by spearheading intricate commercial transactions within the organisation. JP’s extensive portfolio covers a wide range of lending transactions, including substantial commercial investment loans, leverage deals, structured equipment finance, and construction loans, some exceeding $750 million. Before co-founding Simplicity & MKP, JP led the commercial division at a prominent Australian brokerage house. During his tenure, he oversaw settlements totalling over $2 billion, leading his team to secure 15 prestigious state and national awards. Notably, he was named National Commercial Broker of the Year by ANZ in 2014 and Westpac in 2015. He also earned numerous accolades from renowned aggregators. In summary, Jean-Pierre is a luminary in commercial lending, celebrated for his leadership, extensive experience, and a record of accolades that reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence. With his recent awards in 2023, he continues to set the standard in the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgortan/  Dino Pacella embodies a profound mission to inspire, motivate, and encourage as many people as possible while simultaneously championing the cause of finance brokers. He ardently believes that there is no real secret to success but to follow one’s passions and work relentlessly, pushing through obstacles and excuses that may surface on the toughest of days. As Head of Third Party Relationships for the Simplicity Loans & Advisory Group, Dino is responsible for providing strategic direction, market share growth and amplification of the brand through our third party channel - Marketplace Finance His journey, marked by both business failures and personal successes, has forged him into a passionate individual with resilience and determination at his core. Notably, Dino established National Finance Brokers Day in 2015, further reflecting his dedication to raising awareness in the finance industry. For more information, please visit the website at:  https://www.nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/dinopacellaofficial/ https://nationalfinancebrokersday.com.au/ Podcast Producer: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/

    41 min

About

Welcome to the "No Hair, Just Finance" podcast, hosted by two follically challenged finance professionals, JP Gortan and Dino Pacella and our equally follically challenged producer, Menners. Join us for some great stories and a few laughs as we spotlight remarkable individuals from within the finance industry and beyond, sharing their inspiring and captivating stories. Whether it’s a journey from rags to riches or an expedition rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, join us as we delve into the adventures that weave the fabric of our industry.  Jean-Pierre Gortan, a 25 year industry veteran, founder of Simplicity Loans & Advisory. He holds a number industry awards including 2023 Australian Broker of Year & Commercial Broker of the Year. JP is often mistaken for a financial oracle, might attribute his predictive prowess to the lack of hair interference.   Meanwhile, Dino Pacella, known for his uncanny ability to make even the driest financial regulations seem interesting, claims it's his bald head that gives him the unique perspective. Dino’s passion for the broking industry led him to establish National Finance Brokers Day back in 2015 which has become a nationally recognised event which continues to raise the awareness of finance brokers, assist more consumers, educate brokers to level up, along with celebrating the work of over 25,000 people who are employed within the broking industry. Andrew Menczel (aka Menners) is the producer and founded Piccolo Podcasts in 2019. He is also the host of the 'Cricket Unfiltered Podcast' and is a cricket commentator in Australia on both men’s and women’s matches. He has interviewed 15 Australian captains and numerous cricketers. He is also an award winning interviewer and podcast producer.