The Owners Outlook Podcast

Owners Outlook

Owners Outlook is a podcast that dives deep into the journeys of successful entrepreneurs, business owners, athletes, and creators. Join us as we explore their stories, strategies, and insights on what it takes to truly ’own your success.’ Each episode offers real-life lessons, expert advice, and inspiring conversations to help you navigate your own path to success.

  1. Country Roots to World Stage: Barry Lester on Belief, Support & Owning Success

    May 27

    Country Roots to World Stage: Barry Lester on Belief, Support & Owning Success

    In this inspiring episode of Owners Outlook, Shaun Lord sits down with Australian lawn bowls champion Barrie Lester to explore a life shaped by sport, resilience, community, and gratitude. From growing up in a small country town in Victoria to representing Australia on the world stage, Barrie shares the moments that shaped his journey — the early competitive fire, the mentors who believed in him, the heartbreak of losing his mum, and the mindset that helped him turn the page and keep moving forward. Here’s what you can expect from this episode: Growing Up with a Competitive SpiritBarrie reflects on his childhood in country Victoria, where sport became part of his identity from a young age. Whether it was football, swimming, handball or lawn bowls, he carried a deep desire to give everything his best shot. The Power of Mentorship and CommunityBarrie shares how the Lakes Entrance Bowls Club, his mentor John Snell, and the wider bowls community helped shape not only his career, but the person he became along the way. Turning Pain into PurposeAfter the sudden passing of his mum, Barrie opens up about grief, rebuilding, and the decision to move to Melbourne to chase his dreams — carrying her memory with him every step of the way. Mindset, Preparation and LongevityBarrie speaks about what it takes to perform at the highest level for nearly two decades, from preparation and self-belief to learning how to handle pressure, judgment and setbacks. What It Means to Own Your SuccessFor Barrie, success isn’t something you keep to yourself. It’s something you share with the people who helped you get there — the mentors, friends, family, teammates and supporters who played a part in your journey. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about resilience, gratitude, perspective, and why no achievement is ever truly won alone.

    59 min
  2. Purpose Over Pressure: Trent Falson on Service, Courage & Owning Success

    May 20

    Purpose Over Pressure: Trent Falson on Service, Courage & Owning Success

    In this episode of Owners Outlook, Shaun sits down with Trent Falson, a fourth-generation Bondi local, Bondi lifeguard, former Australian surf lifesaving champion, and someone whose life has been shaped by service, pressure, purpose and community. Trent shares his journey from growing up in the water at Bondi, to becoming a lifeguard at just 18, and the reality of stepping into a role where life-changing decisions often happen in seconds. From dealing with fatalities early in his career, to supporting others through trauma, Trent opens up about the mental weight of first responder work and the importance of speaking up, seeking help and learning how to truly listen. Here’s what you can expect from this episode: Growing Up in Bondi Trent reflects on his childhood as a fourth-generation Bondi local, his early years in the ocean, and how surf lifesaving shaped his identity from a young age. Life as a Bondi Lifeguard From rescues and medical emergencies to moments of chaos and calm, Trent shares what it really takes to show up when people need you most. Mental Health, Trauma and Listening Trent speaks honestly about the emotional toll of first responder work, early signs of PTSD, and why sometimes the most powerful thing we can do for someone is simply listen. Purpose Over Status After stepping into the corporate world, sales, buyer’s agency and real estate, Trent realised that money and status could never replace the feeling of doing work that truly mattered. Owning Your Success For Trent, success means waking up each day, looking in the mirror, and feeling genuinely aligned with the person looking back. Tune in for a thoughtful and honest conversation about courage, purpose, slowing down under pressure, and what it means to build a life that actually feels right.

    48 min
  3. Family Restaurant to Managing Partner: The Reps behind Success with Sevan Tuna

    May 6

    Family Restaurant to Managing Partner: The Reps behind Success with Sevan Tuna

    In this episode of Owners Outlook, join Shaun Lord as he sits down with Sevan Tuna, Managing Partner at Alexander Spencer, to explore a journey shaped by hard work, sacrifice, and a deep love for business. From migrating to Australia at a young age and watching his parents rebuild their lives from scratch, to working in his family’s restaurant and eventually rising to partner within 10 years at a leading accounting firm, Sevan’s story is a powerful reflection of what it means to take ownership of your path. Through honest conversation and real-world insight, Sevan shares how discipline, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to people have shaped both his career and leadership philosophy. Here’s what you can expect from this episode: Foundations & Early Lessons Growing up in a migrant family and witnessing the power of hard workEarly exposure to business through a family-run restaurantHow real-life experiences shaped his mindset around successCareer Growth & Leadership The journey from graduate accountant to partner in 10 yearsWhy “doing the right reps” matters more than just working hardThe role of humility, relationships, and leadership in long-term successBusiness Strategy & Scaling How Alexander Spencer evolved from a traditional accounting firm into a multi-service businessThe concept of “share of wallet” and solving more problems for clientsBuilding a $14M business by adding value, not just chasing growthMindset, Sacrifice & Ownership The reality of sacrifice at different stages of lifeWhy young people should embrace short-term sacrifice for long-term gainWhat ownership really means in leadership—taking responsibility for both wins and lossesFinancial Awareness for Business Owners The biggest red flags Sevan sees in struggling businessesWhy understanding your numbers is non-negotiableHow data and financial insight tell the real story of a businessWhat It Means to Own Your Success Why success isn’t just about profit—but about the growth of your peopleThe impact of leadership on team development and cultureBuilding something that outlasts you through othersThis conversation is a reminder that success isn’t one big moment—it’s built through small, consistent actions, tough decisions, and the willingness to keep showing up. Maybe this is something we can all sit with this week:Are we just working… or are we intentionally building something that matters?

    43 min
  4. Chasing More Than Medals: Commitment, Setbacks & Becoming Who You’re Meant to Be with Olivia Gross

    Apr 29

    Chasing More Than Medals: Commitment, Setbacks & Becoming Who You’re Meant to Be with Olivia Gross

    In this episode of Owners Outlook, Shaun sits down with Australian pole vaulter Olivia Gross to explore what it really takes to chase a dream—especially when it pulls you away from everything familiar. From starting athletics at just five years old to taking a leap of faith and moving across the country to pursue elite sport, Olivia shares a journey grounded in commitment, self-discovery, and resilience. But this conversation goes beyond the highlight reel—it dives into the moments of doubt, injury, homesickness, and the mindset required to keep showing up when things get hard. Here’s what you can expect from this episode: The Early JourneyHow Olivia discovered pole vaulting and the curiosity that turned into a passion.The moment she realised this wasn’t just a hobby—it was something worth chasing. Taking the LeapThe decision to turn down a “normal” path and pursue sport full-time.What it felt like to leave home, step into the unknown, and back herself. Mindset & ResilienceHow Olivia deals with homesickness, setbacks, and moments of doubt.Why “a bad session isn’t a bad day” is a mindset that’s shaped her journey. Injury, Setbacks & GrowthNavigating a challenging season filled with injuries and forced time away from competition.How she’s reframing setbacks as opportunities to rebuild stronger. Habits of High PerformanceThe small, consistent habits that support elite performance—both physically and mentally.Why learning your body and asking “why” has become her biggest advantage. The Bigger PictureHer long-term vision of competing at the LA Olympics.And how she defines success—not as a result, but as becoming someone she’s proud of. This is a conversation about perspective—about trusting the process even when it doesn’t make sense, and continuing to move forward when doubt creeps in. Maybe this is something we can all sit with this week:What would it look like to keep going, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed? 🎧 Tune in now to hear Olivia’s story—and what it means, in her words, to truly own your success.

    33 min
  5. Redefining Success: From Burnout to Self Compassion with Dr Hayley Quinn

    Apr 15

    Redefining Success: From Burnout to Self Compassion with Dr Hayley Quinn

    In this episode of Owners Outlook, Shaun sits down with Dr Hayley D Quinn, a former clinical psychologist turned mindset and wellbeing coach, whose journey challenges everything we think we know about success, resilience, and burnout. From leaving school before the age of 15 to earning a PhD in clinical psychology, Hayley’s story is one of persistence, self-discovery, and redefining what it means to succeed. After decades in the psychology field—and experiencing burnout firsthand—she made the difficult decision to step away and pursue a more aligned path focused on coaching, speaking, and helping others prevent burnout before it takes hold . This conversation goes beyond surface-level advice. It explores the internal battles high performers face—the pressure to keep going, the fear of slowing down, and the often overlooked relationship we have with ourselves. Here’s what you can expect from this episode: Mindset, Burnout & Self-Compassion Why high performers often ignore their wellbeing until it’s too lateThe hidden cost of self-criticism and why it’s not the motivator we think it isHow burnout shows up differently for everyone—and how to recognise it earlyResilience & Personal Growth Hayley’s journey from early academic struggles to completing a PhDNavigating single parenthood, adversity, and rebuilding after burnoutThe moment she learned to shift from self-criticism to self-compassionPractical Tools for High Performers Simple daily check-ins: “How am I feeling and what do I need?”The concept of “front-loading” self-care before high-pressure periodsWhy asking for help might be the most powerful step forwardRedefining Success Letting go of societal definitions of successAligning your work with your values and wellbeingWhat it truly means to “own your success” in a sustainable wayThis episode is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about how much you can achieve—but how you choose to show up along the way.

    40 min
  6. Owning Opportunity: From Personal Brand to Business Growth with Andrew Ford

    Apr 8

    Owning Opportunity: From Personal Brand to Business Growth with Andrew Ford

    In this episode of Owners Outlook, Shaun sits down with Andrew Ford, founder of Social Star, to explore a journey shaped by ambition, setbacks, and a deep belief in helping others succeed. Andrew’s story begins in a family business built by his grandfather—a legacy he once hoped to carry forward. But when that path didn’t unfold as expected, it led him through corporate roles at companies like Hewlett Packard and IBM, before ultimately taking the leap into building his own business. What follows is a conversation that goes beyond business strategy—it’s about identity, resilience, and what it really means to build something of your own. Here’s what you can expect from this episode: The Power of Personal Brand How Andrew’s online presence opened doors across his careerWhy being known for one thing matters when you’re starting outThe difference between chasing opportunities vs attracting themBuilding a Business with Purpose The transition from corporate to entrepreneurshipHow Andrew turned a passion for helping others into a scalable businessCreating an ecosystem where multiple ventures support each otherFacing Setbacks and Starting Again The moment Andrew nearly lost everything after a failed investmentWhat it feels like to hit rock bottom—and how he rebuilt from itWhy resilience isn’t about avoiding failure, but learning how to respondMindset, Service, and Long-Term Thinking Why helping others (even for free) often comes back tenfoldThe importance of playing the long game in business and relationshipsWhat separates transactional thinking from genuine impactUnderstanding Your “Why” Why most people think they know their purpose—but don’t fully live itHow personal, business, and product brands all connectWhy the person behind the business matters more than everOwning Your Success Why true fulfillment isn’t found in results—but in the processThe reality of never feeling “finished” as an entrepreneurWhat it means to keep showing up, even when it’s hardThis conversation is a reminder that success isn’t linear—and that sometimes the hardest moments shape the most meaningful outcomes. As Andrew shares his journey, one thing becomes clear:owning your success isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about continuing to show up, learn, and build anyway. Maybe this is something we can all sit with this week.

    48 min
  7. Designing a life you love: Redefining success through work travel & Self-Care with Emma Lovell

    Mar 11

    Designing a life you love: Redefining success through work travel & Self-Care with Emma Lovell

    In this episode of Owners Outlook, Shaun Lord sits down with entrepreneur, author, and coach Emma Lovell to explore how a life-changing accident became the unexpected beginning of a business journey that has now spanned more than 16 years. What started with Emma breaking her back in a snowboarding accident during university ultimately led her to launch her first business while recovering in hospital — a moment that reshaped how she viewed work, life, and success. Instead of waiting for the “perfect time,” Emma decided to start where she was, building a business that would evolve alongside her life. Today, Emma helps people design what she calls a “Bleisure Life” — a philosophy focused on harmonising work, travel, and self-care so success feels good on the inside, not just the outside. In this conversation, Shaun and Emma explore what it really means to step off the traditional path, listen to the signals life gives you, and build a life that aligns with your values. Here’s what you can expect from this episode: Turning Adversity Into Opportunity• How a snowboarding accident sparked Emma’s entrepreneurial journey• Why starting imperfectly can lead to long-term success• The role adversity can play in creating clarity and direction Building a Business That Evolves With You• Emma’s transition from PR and marketing into coaching and personal branding• Recognising when your experiences become the value you offer others• Why businesses — and people — are allowed to evolve The Bleisure Life Philosophy• What “Bleisure” really means beyond conferences and work trips• Why harmony matters more than balance• How travel, leisure, and self-care can actually improve productivity Money, Freedom and Creating Options• Why relying on one income stream can limit your options• How Emma reframed the way she thinks about earning money• The mindset shifts that create more freedom in life and work Mindset Shifts That Change Everything• Why rest and pause can be more powerful than pushing harder• Learning to say no so you can say yes to what matters most• Why success is a feeling — not just a milestone This episode is a reminder that owning your success doesn’t mean chasing more — it means creating a life that genuinely feels good to live. Chapters 0:00 Introduction1:30 The accident that started Emma’s business journey6:00 Discovering personal branding and coaching10:00 The concept of the “Bleisure Life”16:00 Rethinking income and financial freedom21:00 When the going gets tough: rest vs hustle25:00 Advice to her younger self27:00 Designing the life you actually want31:00 What owning your success really means

    38 min
  8. Grief and Growth, Pain and Purpose: Owning Your Story with Ashleigh Conwell

    Feb 24

    Grief and Growth, Pain and Purpose: Owning Your Story with Ashleigh Conwell

    In this deeply moving episode of Owners Outlook, Shaun Lord sits down with Ashleigh Conwell to explore a story of unimaginable loss, resilience, and ultimately, transformation At just 29 years old, Ashleigh became a widow while 17 weeks pregnant with triplets. Within 12 months, she had lost three father figures in her life and welcomed three premature babies into the world — navigating profound grief and overwhelming joy in parallel In this conversation, Ashleigh opens up about what survival truly looked like in those early days, from taking life 10 minutes at a time to acknowledging the moment she realised she had a choice: to rebuild her mindset for herself and for her children Together, Shaun and Ashleigh unpack: Navigating Grief and Survival What it means to sit with grief rather than suppress itThe physical impact of trauma and the body’s response to shockThe powerful turning point after 365 days of tears ashleigh-owners (3)Rebuilding Mindset and Identity The courage to admit “I’m not okay” and seek deeper supportTrialling trauma therapies including EMDR and tappingFinding balance between positivity and emotional honesty ashleigh-owners (3)Small Habits, Big Impact The simple daily rituals that anchor her mornings and eveningsHow gratitude at the dinner table reshaped her family dynamicHolding joy and heartbreak at the same time ashleigh-owners (3)Creating Yellow Falcon Why Ashleigh founded Yellow Falcon to support widows practically, not just emotionallyTurning her own “death admin” spreadsheets into structured resources and scriptsThe meaning behind the name — and the symbolism of yellow as inner confidence ashleigh-owners (3)This episode is not just about grief. It’s about identity. It’s about boundaries. It’s about redefining success beyond titles and material things, and instead grounding it in inner joy, courage, and living life intentionally As always, we close by asking: What does it mean to own your success?For Ashleigh, it’s about owning her story, protecting her values, and choosing joy despite the heartache If you’ve ever faced a season that felt impossible, this conversation is a reminder that rebuilding is possible — even if it starts with just 10 minutes at a time. Chapters:0:00 Introduction1:40 A Life Changed in an Instant6:38 The 365-Day Turning Point10:58 Daily Habits That Anchor the Day13:03 Founding Yellow Falcon24:11 What People Don’t Understand About Grief25:37 What It Means to Own Your Success To learn more about Ashleigh and Yellow Falcon, visit ownersoutlook.com and follow along on our social channels.

    29 min

About

Owners Outlook is a podcast that dives deep into the journeys of successful entrepreneurs, business owners, athletes, and creators. Join us as we explore their stories, strategies, and insights on what it takes to truly ’own your success.’ Each episode offers real-life lessons, expert advice, and inspiring conversations to help you navigate your own path to success.