Long Term Thinking for Business Success

Rick Merten
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Long Term Thinking for Business Success

Long-term Thinking for Business Success is a podcast for and by business owners just like you. We chat with successful SME business owners and entrepreneurs to discuss their journey to create long-term success and explore how to create a sustainable business that provides a life with more freedom to choose how you spend your time. Rick spent the last 22 years running his own business and has learned the hard way that it takes resilience and determination to succeed. The challenges of managing and running his own business has led him to the question that now drives everything he does – how do we build a life and business that breaks through the hustle and creates sustainable success? Get inspired by SME owners, sharing how they established a strong company culture, leveraged sales and marketing to consistently generate customers and systemised their operations to build their business. Learn the strategies and tactics they used to overcome the challenges they faced from financial struggles and market competition, to managing growth and adapting to change. Every discussion will include with actionable advice that you can use in your business. Long-term Thinking for Business Success will help you make life-altering business changes for you, your team, and your clients.

  1. 11월 26일

    From Surfer to Director: How a Cheeky Interview Built a 28-Year Engineering Career: Michael Grogan, Birzulis Associates

    In this episode, with Michael Grogan, one of the directors at Birzulis Associates, a consulting engineering firm that's been shaping Australia's structural landscape since 1989. Michael's journey from a laid-back surfer and cinema ticket-taker to becoming a key leader in one of Sydney's respected engineering firms is entertaining and inspiring. What stands out is Michael's refreshingly honest account of his accidental entry into engineering. Picture this - a fresh University of Newcastle graduate who only applied for the job to get his father off his back, then cheekily told the 67-year-old interviewer that he looked close to retirement or death! That bold move surprisingly landed him his first and only job since graduating. The conversation takes fascinating turns as Michael shares how the firm evolved from a 12-person operation to their current success with offices in Sydney and Newcastle. He provides invaluable insights into maintaining quality while growing, including their innovative "pod" system for project management and unique hiring approach, where personality fit often trumps technical brilliance. Michael's candid discussion about the challenges of transitioning from engineer to leader makes this episode particularly valuable for business owners. His struggle with letting go of technical work to focus on management and how he eventually found a balance that allowed him to return to his engineering roots while leading the company offers practical lessons for anyone facing similar challenges. Michael's straightforward discussion about their commitment to quality over profit, even when it means standing up to powerful clients, demonstrates how strong principles can drive sustainable business success. Whether you're an engineering professional, business owner, or simply interested in how successful businesses navigate growth while maintaining their values, this conversation offers actionable insights and authentic perspectives on building a sustainable professional services firm.

    40분

  2. 10월 30일

    From Tragedy to Triumph: How a Water Crisis Transformed This Engineering Business – Larry Narunsky, Convergent Water Controls

    In this episode, Larry Narunsky shares his 28-year history as the technical director and founder of Convergent Water Controls (CWC) and how his company has become a cornerstone of Australia's water treatment industry over the past 28 years.   Larry's story is a testament to the power of technical expertise and strategic business acumen.   After migrating from South Africa with an engineering background, he transformed a small electronic services business into a thriving enterprise that now employs 15 people and serves as a crucial solutions provider in the water treatment sector.   What makes Larry's journey particularly fascinating is how he navigated significant industry changes, including a pivotal moment following a tragic incident at Melbourne Aquarium that reshaped safety standards in cooling tower maintenance.  Throughout our conversation, Larry shares invaluable insights into building a sustainable business alongside his brother, emphasising the importance of clear role division and systematic documentation.   His approach to hiring - prioritising engineering expertise over pure sales experience - has proven instrumental in building lasting client relationships based on technical competence rather than traditional sales tactics.  One of Larry's most compelling aspects of his leadership philosophy is his commitment to systematic processes and quality assurance. Under his guidance, CWC has developed robust internal systems that allow the business to operate efficiently while maintaining high service standards.   The candid discussion about the challenges of stepping back from day-to-day operations and the importance of building a sustainable organisation offers practical wisdom for business owners contemplating their succession planning.  Whether you're an engineering business owner, an industrial sector entrepreneur, or simply interested in building a sustainable business, this episode offers rich insights into the delicate balance of technical excellence, systematic growth, and exceptional customer service.   Join us as Larry shares his journey from a one-man operation to leading a respected player in Australia's water treatment industry.

    38분

  3. 9월 26일

    People-First Engineering: A Journey to Sustainable Success: Russell King, MEX Engineering

    Join us for an insightful episode of "Long Term Thinking for Business Success" as we delve into the journey of MEX Engineering Group with its founder and CEO, Russell King. In this episode, Russell shares the transformation of MEX Engineering into a people-driven organisation and its vision to become Australia's leading engineering service provider.  Discover how Russell and his team have cultivated an enjoyable and sustainable culture by prioritising people over profit, safety, and quality. Gain valuable insights into their unique approach to hiring based on cultural fit and the "hungry, humble, and smart" framework.   Explore the challenges and triumphs of creating a sustainable business that lasts decades and learn about the founder's pivotal role in driving continuous change.   Uncover the secrets behind MEX Engineering's client engagement strategies, from building lasting relationships to prioritising impactful activities.   Take advantage of this engaging conversation as Russell King shares his wisdom on leadership, strategic initiatives, and the art of creating a best-in-class team. Tune in to gain inspiration for your business journey and learn how to foster a thriving, people-centric organisation.

    36분

  4. 9월 4일

    Navigating Challenges and Cultivating Trust: Insights from Paul Wehbe, Infrastructure Engineering Group

    In this Long Term Thinking for Business Success episode, I sit down with Paul Wehbe, Managing Director of Infrastructure Engineering Group (IEG). With over 20 years of experience in the electrical infrastructure industry, Paul walks us through his transition from a corporate role at Ausgrid to starting IEG, which focuses on delivering innovative, client-centered utility solutions. What began as a side business offering 3D design and modelling services evolved into a fully-fledged consulting company specialising in high-risk utility infrastructure projects. Paul shares the early challenges of managing a small business and learning how to deal with demanding clients, quoting uncertainties, and avoiding scope creep. He reveals that becoming an entrepreneur wasn’t originally planned, but his passion for pushing boundaries and trying new things made it a natural transition.  One of the early lessons Paul highlights is understanding how to manage risk and uncertainty while ensuring clear communication with clients. He believes success comes from delivering great work and building lasting relationships through trust and transparency. As we delve deeper into the discussion, Paul discusses the importance of company culture and personal branding for himself and his team. He emphasises the idea of being selective with clients, focusing on alignment with their values and leadership, which has been critical to IEG’s growth.  Paul also discusses building trust and accountability within a team, sharing stories from his leadership experiences to set the right example. He believes that employees should reflect the company’s values and build strong personal brands so that clients remember them for their excellent service. Paul is proud of the team culture at IEG, particularly the feedback they receive from clients who request specific team members by name, even if they weren’t initially assigned to a project. He notes that this kind of client loyalty comes from consistently providing a "red carpet experience," which has helped IEG establish a reputation as a trusted advisor in the utility infrastructure space. One of Paul's top insights is the importance of strategic hires in scaling a business. He realised early on that to achieve stability and growth, he needed to hire a team he could trust unconditionally. He also highlights the need for flexibility and a "flex strategy" when scaling to handle surges in demand. This approach has helped IEG manage periods of rapid growth without compromising on quality.

    41분

  5. 7월 21일

    Dario Valenza: Flying High: Tech Innovation Uncharted Skies

    Dario Valenza's innovation journey is a captivating narrative of perseverance, creativity, and strategic vision. From his early career in yacht racing to pioneering advancements in uncrewed aerial systems, Dario's trajectory embodies the essence of a true innovator. His passion for design and performance excellence has been a driving force throughout his life, evident in his contributions to America's Cup teams and his relentless pursuit of technological advancement. As the founder of Carbonix, he has led the charge of developing high-performance aerial systems that capture high-resolution data over large geographic areas and complex terrains. This endeavour has revolutionised workflows, reduced costs, and significantly lowered carbon emissions, underscoring Dario's dedication to environmental sustainability. The conversation with Dario delves into the intricacies of his journey, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a technology-driven business from the ground up. His experiences in securing strategic partnerships, navigating the complexities of hardware development, and the pivotal role of customer-driven innovation provide a rich tapestry of lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry enthusiasts alike. Dario's story is one of resilience and adaptability, marked by the fusion of his expertise in design thinking with a keen understanding of market dynamics. His unwavering pursuit of excellence and his ability to transform visionary ideas into tangible, real-world solutions inspire those embarking on their own innovation odyssey. Join me as we explore Dario Valenza's story of innovation and delve into the intersection of vision, technology, and business success.

    49분

  6. 6월 24일

    Pete Sackett: The Art of Expertise and Conversations for Sustainable Success

    In this insightful episode, Pete Sackett, the Founder and Director of CDE Design Solutions, shares his wealth of experience and knowledge on building a sustainable engineering business.   He started CDE in 2001 after spending several years working in various engineering roles. His initial vision was to provide drafting and factory-related mechanical engineering services to local food manufacturers.  Pete shares the challenges and pivotal moments that have shaped the company's trajectory. He emphasises the pivotal role of having deep expertise in his team to build specialisation and create a unique market position   We explore Pete’s approach to fostering open dialogue within the company and with clients, emphasising the value of regular discussions to gauge progress, address challenges, and ensure smooth operations.   Over the course of 20 years leading CDE, Pete has accumulated a collection of captivating anecdotes and real-world examples that he generously shares with us. He takes the opportunity to explore key moments in CDE Design Solutions' history, including fundamental decisions that have greatly influenced the company's trajectory.  Pete's candid storytelling and practical wisdom make this episode a great listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of sustainable business practices and long-term success.

    35분

  7. 5월 29일

    Nina Kilpinen: From Engineering to Retail and Back Again: Unconventional Career Journey

    In this episode of the Long Term Thinking for Business Success podcast, I sit down with Nina Kilpinen, the Managing Director of Seed Engineering, a specialist engineering consulting firm.   Nina's career journey is anything but conventional. After spending almost, a decade as an engineer, she left the industry to build a shoe retailing business. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her back to engineering, where she now brings a unique perspective to project development and management.  In this wide-ranging conversation, Nina shares her insights on overcoming barriers, the importance of project management, balancing engineering and entrepreneurship, and the value of career flexibility. She also discusses the challenges and rewards of being a female leader in a male-dominated industry.  Whether you're an engineer, an entrepreneur, or a business owner, there's something for everyone in this episode. Nina's story is inspiring, her insights are valuable, and her passion for her work is contagious. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this conversation with Nina Kilpinen.

    46분

  8. 4월 26일

    Wayne Shub: Principles of Courage and Unwavering Commitment

    Embarking on a journey from South Africa to Australia, Wayne Shub, the founder and managing director of BHF Technologies, epitomises the essence of courage, determination, and the power of unwavering principles. In this captivating episode, we delve into the remarkable story of a visionary entrepreneur who transformed 23 years of perseverance into what many now perceive as an "overnight success."  Shub's story began amidst the tumultuous mid-nineties in South Africa, a time when concerns about safety and the future loomed large. Fuelled by a desire for a secure environment for his family, Shub's decision to migrate to Australia.   This marked the inception of a journey defined by unwavering determination and the courage to pursue a vision. It was during this period that Shub's entrepreneurial spirit took root, leading to the establishment of BHF Technologies, formerly known as Blue H2O Filtration, nearly 24 years ago  At the heart of Shub's narrative lies the profound impact of principles and the courage to back oneself. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge, experience, and a steadfast philosophy that underpins the very fabric of BHF Technologies. Shub's unwavering commitment to providing leading-edge, cost-effective products combined with exceptional service and support has been the cornerstone of the company's success   The episode delves into the pivotal moments that shaped Shub's trajectory, including a compelling account of a meeting with 20 executives, where his courage and insight left an indelible mark on the company's decision-making process.   Through this episode, we gain invaluable insights into the philosophy that propelled BHF Technologies to the forefront of the industry, and the enduring impact of Shub's unwavering dedication to his vision and the enduring power of long-term thinking, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to excellence.

    39분
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예고편

소개

Long-term Thinking for Business Success is a podcast for and by business owners just like you. We chat with successful SME business owners and entrepreneurs to discuss their journey to create long-term success and explore how to create a sustainable business that provides a life with more freedom to choose how you spend your time. Rick spent the last 22 years running his own business and has learned the hard way that it takes resilience and determination to succeed. The challenges of managing and running his own business has led him to the question that now drives everything he does – how do we build a life and business that breaks through the hustle and creates sustainable success? Get inspired by SME owners, sharing how they established a strong company culture, leveraged sales and marketing to consistently generate customers and systemised their operations to build their business. Learn the strategies and tactics they used to overcome the challenges they faced from financial struggles and market competition, to managing growth and adapting to change. Every discussion will include with actionable advice that you can use in your business. Long-term Thinking for Business Success will help you make life-altering business changes for you, your team, and your clients.

정보

  • 제작진
    Rick Merten
  • 방송 연도
    2023년 - 2024년
  • 에피소드
    24
  • 등급
    전체 연령 사용가
  • 저작권
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
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    Long Term Thinking for Business Success

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