Episodes

  • Unveiling the Path Through Aged Care Labyrinths with Marie Paulson
    Jul 9 2024
    When the road ahead seems shrouded in the complexities of aged care, fear not, for Marie Paulson, the visionary behind Aged Care Choices Australia, joins me, Amy Bennett, to shed light on navigating this challenging landscape. Together, we unravel the emotional and fiscal threads of transitioning loved ones into care, from the significance of early planning to the comfort offered by compassionate workers. Prepare to be enlightened by tales of transformation within aged care facilities, and the enduring power of personalized spaces, as we tackle the misconceptions surrounding the industry and the impact of recent reforms.

    In the heartfelt fabric of aged care, every thread tells a story. Join us as we weave through the intimate narratives of elderly couples striving to stay together and the poignancy involved in upholding their independence. We share insider tips for a smooth admission day, stress the importance of communication with care staff, and empathize with the emotional toll these transitions take on families. The chapter on senior living amenities and activities promises to stir both laughter and reflection, as we traverse the role of pets in aged care and the challenges of adapting to new lifestyles.

    Finally, Marie takes us beyond the corridors of care homes to her dream vacations and the wisdom accumulated from a 49-year partnership with her husband, Mike. As we indulge in a lighter note, savor the joy of cruising, Italian cuisine, and the beauty found in enduring relationships. We invite you, our listeners, to share your thoughts on this journey through the intricacies of aged care. Your engagement fuels our conversation, and we eagerly await your contributions for future discussions. Thank you for joining us on 'Beyond the Signboard,' where each episode is a step towards understanding the tender dance of aged care.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Charting Success: Brad Filiponi's Journey from Photographer to Real Estate Innovator
    Jul 2 2024

    Navigating the high seas of entrepreneurship and family life, Brad Filiponi, boxbrownie.com's co-founder, joins me on a voyage where we chart the course from snapping photos to revolutionizing real estate. In this heart-to-heart, Brad opens the treasure map to striking work-life harmony, revealing how he juggles the waves of a demanding career with the anchor of family, and even shares a slice of paradise with tales of rejuvenating getaways. It's an expedition of personal anecdotes and professional wisdom ripe for anyone steering their own ship through the bustling waters of business innovation and familial tides.

    When we cast our net into Brad's professional deep dive, we haul in a catch of insights from his transformation from photographer to real estate mogul. Listen as he reminisces about his marketing journey, the importance of customer connection, and the digital evolution that's reshaped property sales. Brad's tale is a lesson in maintaining that personal touch in a world where pixels often overshadow people, and it's a reminder that the compass of innovation points towards redefining industry standards.

    Setting sail towards the horizon of success requires belief and tenacity, and Brad's story is a lighthouse guiding the way. He charts his path from doubters' skepticism to securing influential clients, weaving through life lessons that encompass the value of honesty, the strength found in community, and the broadened perspectives gained from global experiences. So hoist your sails, and prepare for a narrative voyage weaving together ambition, technology, and the quest for personal growth with Brad Filippone as our seasoned navigator.

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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • The Unyielded Spirit of Anne Barnett in Championing Smoke Alarm Awareness
    Jun 25 2024

    When life throws curveballs, some stand out as exemplars of resilience and positivity—Anne Barnett of Coast Smoke Alarms is one such figure, a beacon of dedication and can-do spirit. Her story unfolds in our latest episode, revealing how she rose from a 13-year-old working to support her family during her father's illness, to a revered Sales and Account Director. Anne's journey is not just about career growth; it's about the power of unity and an unwavering work ethic that has seen her through secretarial roles, driving school entrepreneurship, and back to the corporate world.

    Delving into the world of fire safety, Anne sheds light on the lifesaving significance of smoke alarm legislation and the impact it has on the safety of homes and families. As she guides us through the nuances of smoke alarm compliance and troubleshooting, we gain a deeper understanding of the importance of specialist knowledge in this field. The conversation also takes a heartfelt turn, as Anne shares her aspirations to volunteer and give back to the community, highlighting a personal commitment that goes far beyond her professional endeavors.

    Wrapping up, we’re reminded of life’s simpler joys and the milestones that define us. Anne opens up about her dream holiday destinations, her invigorating routine of cold plunges, and the emotional journey of raising a family and facing an empty nest. It’s a story that comes full circle with her powerful family motto, instilling the belief that any obstacle can be overcome with determination and a positive mindset. Join us on this inspiring and enlightening journey with a woman whose life and career are as impactful as the smoke alarms she champions.

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    46 mins
  • Navigating Career Shifts and Property Investments with Demi Patterson
    Jun 10 2024

    Have you ever considered what it takes to not only change careers but to also inspire and empower a whole community? Demi Patterson, the trailblazing founder of Confident Happy Women, joins us to share her remarkable transformation from leading a fashion business in Athens to igniting a revolution in beauty education in Australia. Through her mentorship and the pursuit of lifelong learning, Demi has become a pivotal figure in guiding young women to achieve their dreams.

    Strap in for a heartfelt conversation that weaves through the intricate tapestry of personal growth, the power of solid relationships, and the strategy behind real estate investment. Demi opens up about her international speaking adventures and her best-selling book that offers invaluable advice on choosing life partners and honing communication skills. With a special nod to the emotional rollercoaster of selling a beloved home and the savvy it takes to dive into property development in Crete, this episode is bursting with insights for anyone looking to grow their personal and professional life.

    We wrap up with stories that celebrate the joy of life's unexpected turns, whether they be in career paths, properties, or relationships. Demi's journey is a testament to the beauty of embracing change and the wisdom of starting small in real estate to ultimately build lasting success. So, join us as we raise our glasses to the unforeseeable future, and don't forget to share your thoughts for our next episodes – your engagement makes every adventure we share that much more special.

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Embracing Empathy in Relocation: A Heartfelt Journey with Moving Innovator Kym Phillips
    May 27 2024

    As movers and shakers in the world of relocation, Kym Phillips and I stepped onto the airwaves to share an intimate look into the emotional rollercoaster of the moving industry. Buckle up and join us on a heartfelt journey from past to present, where we peel back the curtain on the transformative power of empathy and exceptional customer service. Kym, CEO of Moving Made Easy and a trailblazer in her field, delves into her rise from the family's removal business to becoming a mover of hearts and homes, while I reminisce about my own legacy rooted deeply within the industry's history.

    Throughout our conversation, laughter and candid reflections intertwine as we navigate the labyrinth of orchestrating seamless relocations, shaping the life stories of those we assist. Moving is a tapestry of Tetris-like strategy and tender human connections, and Kym’s anecdotes as a "Moving Angel" breathe life into the meticulous care involved in this profession. From photographing bookshelves to ensure continuity for clients to adapting on-the-fly in the pre-cellphone era, every tale is a thread in the vibrant quilt of our shared experience.

    Concluding with a nod to the transformative power of human connection, we invite you to explore the profound impact of supportive relationships, both in life's personal avenues and through the evocative chapters of our careers. If you're compelled to learn more, to feel the warmth of our stories, or simply to pick up a few nuggets of moving wisdom, find us through social media or my website. Your thoughts and future topic suggestions fuel our passion—this is more than a podcast; it's a community built on the foundation of shared life transitions and the enduring belief in the magic of a helping hand.

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    59 mins
  • Embracing Video for Real Estate Victory with Kieran Courtney
    May 14 2024

    Embark on a transformative odyssey with me, Amy Bennett, as I sit down with Kieran Courtney, the visionary co-founder of Blink+. From his early days navigating the challenges of traditional schooling to his impressive stride across the realms of plumbing and the high-pressure oil and gas sector, Kieran's tale is one of grit and ingenuity. Revelations unfold about the transferable prowess of systems and processes from the gas industry to real estate, all while Kieran divulges the secrets behind his determined climb to the industry's forefront.

    In the pulsating heart of real estate, relationships reign supreme. Kieran and I dissect the Ray White method of relational alchemy—turning 70 to 100 calls a day into a trusted and thriving database. We discuss the emotional armor required to face the ebbs and flows of client responses, and share insights into the art of conversation that fuels genuine connections and resilience in the face of adversity. Moreover, we celebrate the unassuming power of small but sincere gestures that form the bedrock of enduring client bonds.

    The crescendo of our journey heralds the era of video marketing—a game-changer in the property landscape. Kieran's pivot back to real estate, armed with the innovative tools of Blink Plus, emphasizes the unstoppable force of video in crafting an indelible brand. We unpack the nuances of on-camera authenticity and the strategic consistency necessary for a real estate brand to flourish. Whether you're a seasoned agent or new to the maze of property dealings, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom, personal anecdotes, and hearty laughter that's sure to ignite your passion and redefine your approach to real estate success.

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    50 mins
  • Navigating the Auction Advantage in Sunshine Coast Real Estate with Marcus Muir
    Apr 30 2024

    The vibrant sands of the Sunshine Coast are not just for sunbathing; they're the backdrop of a real estate narrative that's as enriching as it is enlightening. I'm Amy Bennett, and in our latest episode, I had the pleasure of welcoming Marcus Muir, the McGrath Network's ace auctioneer, to share the secrets behind his ascent from a trainee to a real estate virtuoso. We traverse memories of our beloved coastal region, its metamorphosis into a bustling market, and the familial warmth it extends to residents and realtors alike.

    In a heartfelt exchange, Marcus and I reflect on the industry's trials and triumphs, with resilience and adaptability emerging as our guiding stars. We dissect the formidable era of the Global Financial Crisis and the subsequent evolution of real estate marketing, shifting from traditional methods to the potential-laden terrain of off-the-plan sales. It's not just about structures and transactions; our conversation celebrates the emotional tapestry woven through every property journey, from the anticipation of projects breaking ground to the satisfaction of seeing a family's dream home realized.

    Tune in for a candid look at the competitive advantage of auctions, and how they inject efficiency and excitement into the selling process, often achieving premium outcomes. Marcus and I break down the tactical interplay between auctioneers and agents, lauding the increasing diversity and creativity women are injecting into the field. It's a lively discussion that also steps off the auction block to savor the personal side of life—where patience, persistence, and the joy found in family milestones remind us that the true value of real estate lies in the human experiences it facilitates.

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • The Untold Stories of Real Estate Success with Century 21's Grant Smith
    Apr 16 2024

    When you think of real estate, do you picture a cutthroat world of relentless competition? Grant Smith from Century 21, Grant Smith Property, joins me, Amy Bennett, to shatter that illusion with tales of camaraderie and the underlying humanity powering the industry. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the unexpected by highlighting how emotional intelligence and expectation management are the true drivers behind successful property deals. Grant's journey from a young property enthusiast to a real estate powerhouse reveals an industry revolutionized by technology, yet fundamentally anchored in service, communication, and reputation.

    Navigating the dynamic landscape of real estate requires more than just market knowledge; it's about authenticity and the resonating mantra, "your vibe attracts your tribe." Grant and I stroll down memory lane, sharing the early career moves that shaped our paths and the value of facing stereotypes head-on. From our first jobs to the nuances of building a robust, referral-driven business, we underscore the importance of staying true to oneself and the instrumental role of family and aligned team values in crafting a client-centric experience.

    Away from the hustle of property transactions, life brims with passions that intertwine with our professional lives. Our shared wanderlust takes center stage as we recount tales of travel, from the enchanting streets of Lake Como to the neon-lit Las Vegas strip, punctuated by a serendipitous birthday encounter with Celine Dion. And as life isn't just about the places we visit, we also toast to the everyday connective moments over good food and wine, revealing how our community and charitable involvement infuse deeper meaning into our work. Tune in to Beyond the Signboard for a heartwarming episode that weaves together the tapestry of real estate expertise, life's simple joys, and the impact we make along the way.

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    52 mins