In episode S4-3 of the Coast and Commerce podcast, our host Ben Amos interviews Dave Biggar, CTO of Zone Manufacturing, discussing his journey from boat building to the RV industry, the establishment of Zone RV, and the challenges faced in manufacturing. They explore the importance of innovation, the advantages of being based on the Sunshine Coast, and the future vision for Zone Manufacturing, which includes exciting projects in aerospace and rail. Dave emphasises the significance of understanding staff capacities, looking sideways for business opportunities, and the role of digital transformation in business growth.

Takeaways

• Dave Biggar's journey began with boat building and evolved into RV manufacturing.
• Zone RV was established to innovate within the caravan industry using composite materials.
• The transition from custom boat building to mass production in RVs presented significant challenges.
• Understanding team capacity is crucial for sustainable growth in business.
• Innovation doesn't always mean creating something new; it can involve improving existing processes.
• The Sunshine Coast offers a unique environment for business growth and innovation.
• Zone Manufacturing aims to diversify and scale across multiple industries.
• Digital transformation is key to enhancing operational efficiency and product development.
• Collaboration and building a strong team are essential for overcoming manufacturing challenges.
• Exciting projects in aerospace and rail are on the horizon for Zone Manufacturing.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgment

00:56 Dave Biggar's Journey to Zone Manufacturing

04:49 Transition from Boat Building to RV Manufacturing

09:58 Establishing Zone RV and Early Challenges

11:49 Current State of Zone RV

13:46 Expansion into Zone Manufacturing

18:49 Innovation and Digital Transformation

23:51 The Sunshine Coast Advantage

27:09 Future Vision for Zone Manufacturing

29:57 Advice for Entrepreneurs

35:05 Exciting Projects on the Horizon

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S4-3

In this conversation, Ben Amos and Tara Jacobson from Groei Education discuss the urgent need for educational reform to better align with the rapidly changing demands of the workforce. They explore the disconnect between what traditional education provides and the skills that industries require, particularly in the context of advancing technologies like AI. Tara shares her journey in innovating education through Groie Education, focusing on creating programs that equip young people with both technical and soft skills. They also delve into the challenges businesses face in adapting their recruitment processes to attract and retain younger generations, particularly Generation Z, who seek flexibility and meaningful work. The discussion highlights local initiatives aimed at fostering talent and creating pathways for employment on the Sunshine Coast.

Takeaways

• Education is not providing the real-time skills needed for the workplace.
• There is a disconnect between industry needs and what education provides.
• Innovative education solutions are necessary for regional small businesses.
• Micro-credentials and stackable skills are the future of education.
• Businesses need to rethink their recruitment and onboarding processes.
• Young people are looking for flexibility and opportunities to explore.
• Emotional intelligence and soft skills are critical for the workforce.
• Creating 'purple people' combines both technical and soft skills.
• Local initiatives are essential for talent retention and pathways to employment.
• Collaboration between education and industry is key to addressing workforce challenges.

Chapters

00:00 The Disconnect Between Education and Industry Needs

06:08 Innovating Education for Future Skills

12:00 Rethinking Recruitment and Onboarding

18:44 Creating 'Purple People' for the Workforce

25:38 Adapting to Generation Z's Workforce Expectations

35:23 Local Initiatives for Education and Employment

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S4-2

In the first episode of Season 4 of the Coast and Commerce podcast, Ben Amos speaks with Stella Romagnoli, coordinator of the Diverse Queensland Workforce Program. They discuss the importance of a culturally diverse workforce, the challenges faced by migrants in finding employment, and the benefits that hiring migrants can bring to businesses on the Sunshine Coast. Stella shares her personal experiences as a migrant and the mission of the program to connect skilled migrants with local employers. The conversation highlights the need for cultural diversity in the workplace and the support available for both migrants and employers.

Takeaways

• A diverse workforce enhances problem-solving and team connectivity.
• The Diverse Queensland Workforce Program aims to match migrants with local employment.
• Many migrants face barriers in the job market due to lack of recognition of their skills.
• Employers often have misconceptions about the complexity of hiring migrants.
• The program provides free services to both employers and migrants.
• Cultural diversity in the workplace fosters better connections among staff.
• Employers can benefit from the long term loyalty of migrant employees.
• The Sunshine Coast has potential for greater multiculturalism.
• Support services are available for migrants facing challenges in employment.
• Employers are encouraged to reach out for assistance in hiring migrants.

Chapters

00:00 The Value of a Diverse Workforce

04:57 Understanding the Diverse Queensland Workforce Program

10:44 Challenges and Misconceptions in Hiring Migrants

16:45 Connecting Employers with Migrant Talent

20:35 Cultural Benefits of a Diverse Workplace

24:47 Supporting Migrants in the Sunshine Coast

29:31 Final Thoughts for Employers

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S4-1

In the last episode of season 3 of the Coast and Commerce podcast, Ben Amos interviews Anthony McLean, General Manager of Ambrose Construct Group. They discuss the journey of Ambrose from a small building company to a national player in the insurance repair industry, and how they have scaled the business using technology, structure and efficiencies. Anthony shares insights on building a high-performance culture, the HR challenges of operating on the Sunshine Coast, and the company's vision for the future, focusing on building community, workforce and innovation.

Takeaways

• Scaling requires a core focus on what you do best.
• Ambrose Construct Group has diversified to work with every insurer in Australia.
• Technology plays a crucial role in streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
• Customer service is paramount in the insurance repair industry.
• Building a high-performance culture involves targeted recruitment and development.
• The Sunshine Coast offers unique opportunities and challenges for businesses.
• Affordable housing is a significant challenge for attracting talent.
• Ambrose is committed to supporting local trades and the community.
• The future involves bringing innovative products to the market.
• Ambrose aims to influence the industry nationally and globally.

Chapters

00:00 Scaling Business: The Core Focus

05:12 The Journey of Ambrose Construct Group

09:54 Innovating Through Technology

15:10 Building a High-Performance Culture

19:56 Challenges and Opportunities on the Sunshine Coast

25:12 Vision for the Future: Resilience and Innovation

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S3-8

In this episode of the Coast and Commerce podcast, Ben Amos speaks with Nicole McNaughton, CEO of the Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN), about the vibrant food and beverage industry on the Sunshine Coast. They discuss the importance of small businesses, the diversity of local food producers here, and the challenges faced by the industry. Nicole shares insights on how FAN supports its members through networking, resources, and community engagement, emphasising the need for collaboration and resilience in the face of challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of supporting local producers and the vision for a thriving food sector in the region.

Takeaways

• The majority of the food and beverage industry is made up of small businesses.
• Understanding pricing and marketing is crucial for success.
• FAN connects members with opportunities and resources.
• The Sunshine Coast food industry is valued at over a billion dollars.
• Local producers offer a diverse range of products beyond just farming.
• Supporting local businesses can be done through farmers markets and local stores.
• Collaboration among businesses enhances the ecosystem.
• Navigating regulations is a significant challenge for new food businesses.
• FAN provides programs to help businesses scale and access new markets.
• Community membership in FAN is free for those in the food value chain.

Chapters

00:00 The Landscape of Food and Beverage Industry

02:51 Connecting the Community: Food and Agribusiness Network

06:11 Diversity and Growth in the Sunshine Coast Food Sector

08:56 Supporting Local Producers and Businesses

11:45 Challenges and Resilience in the Food Industry

15:11 Navigating Early Stage Challenges in Food Business

17:57 Scaling Up: Opportunities for Established Businesses

20:46 Vision for the Future of Food on the Sunshine Coast

24:03 Joining the Food and Agribusiness Network

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S3-7

In this episode of the Coast and Commerce podcast, Sunshine Coast Mayor, Rosanna Natoli discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by the region's growth, and the importance of community engagement for planning. She emphasises the important role and flow on effects of small businesses in the local economy and outlines the various council initiatives to support them. The conversation also touches on the strategic forward planning for homes, infrastructure and public transport to support businesses and citizens on the coast. Lastly, Mayor Natoli expresses that the Sunshine Coast Council is empowering businesses to innovate and look at different ways of doing business.

Takeaways

• The Sunshine Coast is experiencing significant population growth, presenting both challenges and opportunities.
• Mayor Rosanna Natoli emphasises the importance of community engagement in local governance.
• Small businesses are crucial for job creation and economic stability in the region.
• Public transport improvements are essential for the future of the Sunshine Coast.
• Innovation and creativity are key drivers for the local economy.
• The council is committed to supporting small businesses through various initiatives.
• Sustainable development is necessary to accommodate the growing population.
• Mayor Natoli aims to create a legacy of community pride and vibrancy.
• The council's economic development strategy focuses on attracting major events and supporting local businesses.
• Change is inevitable, and the council is dedicated to managing it responsibly.

Chapters

00:00 The Sunshine Coast's Growth and Opportunities

06:44 Mayor Rosanna Natoli's Journey to Office

11:57 Community Engagement and Council's Role

18:09 Supporting Small Businesses on the Sunshine Coast

24:53 Vision for the Future: Infrastructure and Transport

30:49 Innovation and the Role of Small Business

33:43 Legacy and Community Pride

Additional Links:

Sunshine Coast Council Business Website

Regional Economic Development Strategy

Thriving Through Change Business Expo 2024 - October 29

Level up Sunshine Coast

Click for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S3-6

In this conversation, Ben Amos interviews Shannon Lemanski, founder of Aqua Ubique, a company that addresses the water crisis in Australia by harnessing humidity to create drinking water. Shannon shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of purpose over profit in his business start up. Aqua Ubique aims to provide sustainable drinking water solutions while also giving back to communities in need. The discussion covers the necessity of knowing your ‘why’ and clarifying your specific target market in order to change the mindset of your potential customers.

Takeaways

• Over 8% of Australia's population lacks access to clean drinking water.
• Aqua Ubique creates drinking water from humidity in the air.
• The business model focuses on purpose over profit.
• For every five machines sold, one is donated to communities.
• Shannon's military experience inspired his entrepreneurial journey.
• The technology aims to solve the global water crisis.
• Aqua Ubique is a social enterprise with a sustainable business model.
• The company has gained traction with local councils and universities.
• Education is key to overcoming customer objections.
• The future vision includes expanding technology to serve communities globally.

Chapters

00:00 The Water Crisis in Australia

06:00 Shannon's Journey to Aqua Ubique

12:40 Purpose Over Profit: The Business Model

17:02 Current Status and Future Vision of Aqua Ubique

22:53 Overcoming Objections and Educating Customers

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S3-5

In this conversation, Ben Amos and Alan Hegerty from Impactus Advisory discuss the importance of strategic direction and clarity in business growth. They explore how leaders can gain a broader perspective, akin to an 'astronaut view', to understand the potential impact of their business. The discussion emphasises the significance of culture, talent acquisition, and the role of AI in enhancing efficiency and innovation. Alan shares insights on overcoming common roadblocks to growth and the necessity of developing an AI policy that aligns with business values and goals.

Takeaways

• Understanding your business's vision is crucial for growth.
• Clarity in direction helps avoid stagnation.
• Culture is essential for engaging and empowering teams.
• AI can enhance operational efficiency and free up human creativity.
• Leaders must evolve alongside their growing businesses.
• Talent acquisition is a key challenge for regional businesses.
• Innovation should be encouraged at all levels of the organisation.
• Values guide employee behaviour and decision-making.
• Regularly revisiting strategy is necessary in a fast-paced environment.
• An AI policy should align with business values and goals.

Chapters

00:00 The Astronaut View: Gaining Perspective in Business

05:04 Understanding Business Growth: Vision and Execution

09:47 Overcoming Clarity Challenges in Business

15:02 Talent Acquisition and Culture on the Sunshine Coast

19:48 Innovation and Growth Mindset in Regional Businesses

25:10 Embracing AI: Opportunities for Efficiency and Growth

29:59 Developing an AI Policy: Strategic Considerations

35:12 Conclusion: Moving Forward with Strategic Direction

Additional Link

Innovate Media’s AI Policy article

Click here for more https://innovatemedia.com.au/S3-4