The Wisepreneurs Podcast

In this episode, my guest, Gail Greatorex, is a leading expert in product safety with over 25 years of experience. Gail shares her journey from working with the Australian government to becoming a self-employed consultant, where she helps businesses navigate consumer protection laws, compliance, and product recalls. She reflects on the freedom and flexibility of working for herself, allowing her to choose projects that align with her values and passions.We explore the rising challenges of e-commerce safety, particularly with third-party sellers, and the risks posed by everyday items like button batteries and toppling furniture.Gail also discusses her role in shaping regulatory standards and her passion for advocacy, establishing herself as a key voice in ensuring safer products for consumers worldwide. Additionally, she highlights her work as co-founder of ClimateWise Associations, which promotes addressing climate risks alongside product safety.Key Themes: • The importance of product safety and consumer protection • Navigating the risks of e-commerce platforms and third-party sellers • The complexities of product recall and business compliance • Gail’s advocacy work and influence on government regulations • Insights into emerging product risks like button batteries and unsafe toys • Gail’s thoughts on the freedom of self-employment and choosing value-driven projects • ClimateWise Associations and its connection between climate risks and product safetyMentions:Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)Button battery safety regulationsClimateWise Associations https://climatewise.org.au/Product recalls in e-commerceCherry Blossom Footsteps https://gailholloway.com/Manager’s Checklist https://productsafetysolutions.com.au/downloadable-resources/Contact Details:Website: https://productsafetysolutions.com.au/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gailgreatorex/ Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter

In this episode, I talk with Eliška Šestáková, an academic and productivity expert from the Czech Republic, to explore the world of effective note-taking. Eliška shares her unique approach to organizing information and shows how note-taking can transform the work of professionals. Drawing from her background in computer science and personal knowledge management, Eliška discusses powerful systems like Zettelkasten and tools like Roam Research. These methods help independent professionals enhance their learning, creativity, and project management. Please listen to discover how you might improve your note-taking habits and boost your writing and research productivity.Key ThemesThe importance of note-taking for independent professionalsOverview of the Zettelkasten method for organizing knowledgeBalancing digital and paper note-taking systemsHow Roam Research supports better learning and information retrievalTips for professionals embracing new technology after 60MentionsZettelkasten methodRoam Research https://roamresearch.com/How to Take Smart Notes by Sönke AhrensBuilding a Second Brain by Tiago ForteHow to Read a Book by Mortimer Adler Connect with Eliška ŠestákováWebsite: https://eliskasestakova.cz/Newsletter: Strange New NotesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sestaeli/X (Twitter): https://x.com/sestaeli Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter

In this episode of the Wisepreneurs Podcast, host Nigel Rawlins chats with Leanne Shelton, a ten-year veteran copywriter and content marketer who has transitioned into AI training. Based in Sydney, Australia, Leanne shares her shift from traditional copywriting to founding Human Edge AI Training, a company that helps businesses integrate AI while preserving the crucial human touch. The discussion explores AI’s growing impact on the creative industry, the significance of prompt engineering, and the challenge of balancing technology with human-centric values. Leanne offers invaluable advice for professionals adapting to the evolving AI landscape, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and strategic thinking.Key Themes:The transition from copywriting to AI trainingThe importance of balancing AI with human elementsOvercoming the fear of AI in the workplaceThe role of prompt engineering in content creationThe future of copywriting in the age of AIMentions:Human Edge AI TrainingChatGPT and other generative AI toolsPrompt engineering techniquesAI DIY Club for practical, hands-on AI learningMicrosoft Copilot for secure AI integrationContact Details:LinkedIn: Leanne Shelton on LinkedInWebsite: Human Edge AI Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter

In this episode of the Wisepreneurs Podcast, I spoke with Cedric Chin, the founder of Commoncog, to explore his unique approach to accelerating business expertise. Cedric shares his journey from leading a startup in Vietnam to establishing Commoncog, a platform that rigorously tests business ideas against real-world scenarios. The discussion delves into key concepts like cognitive agility, Lia DiBello's triad model of business expertise, and the challenges of mastering business skills quickly. Cedric also draws parallels between his experiences in Judo and business, offering valuable lessons on mental strength and strategic thinking.Key Themes:Testing Business Ideas Against Reality: Cedric’s approach to validating business concepts through real-world application.Cognitive Agility: The importance of adapting to new information and changing market conditions.The Triad Model: Understanding the three essential legs of business—Operations, Market, and Capital.Lessons from Judo: How Cedric’s intense training regimen influenced his business approach.Expertise Acceleration: Strategies for speeding up the acquisition of business skills.Mentions:Commoncog: Cedric's platform focused on practical business education.Leo DiBello’s Triad Model: A framework for evaluating business expertise.Naturalistic Decision Making: A method Cedric discusses for extracting tacit knowledge from experts.Deliberate Practice: The limitations of this method in business contexts.Guest Offers:Cedric invites listeners to explore the resources available on Commoncog, where they can find in-depth articles, case studies, and a wealth of knowledge on business expertise. Sign up for his newsletter for regular updates and access to free content, including articles on expertise acceleration and case studies that ground theory in real-world examples.Contact Details:Website: https://commoncog.com/Newsletter Sign-Up: https://commoncog.com/subscribe-to-the-commonplace-newsletter/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cedchin/Twitter: Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter

In this episode of The Wisepreneurs Podcast, Karen Wickre returns after 50 episodes. Karen is a skilled communicator, freelance editor, and networking expert. She shares her insights on building meaningful professional relationships, the benefits of freelance editing, and how to empower yourself through continuous growth. Drawing from her extensive experience in Silicon Valley, Karen provides practical advice for professionals, entrepreneurs, and independent consultants looking to enhance their careers and confidently navigate the freelance landscape.Key Themes:Authentic Networking: Building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships.Freelance Editing: Embracing the freedom and flexibility of freelance work.Continuous Professional Growth: The importance of lifelong learning and adaptability.Empowerment: Leveraging experience and confidence in your professional journey.Mentions:LinkedIn: Strategies for effective networking and personal branding.Continuous Learning: Embracing new tools and staying updated with industry trends.Guest Offers:Book: “Taking the Work Out of Networking: An Introvert’s Guide to Making Connections That Count” by Karen Wickre.LinkedIn: Connect with Karen on LinkedIn for ongoing networking and professional development insights, especially Wickre Wednesdays.Contact Details:Website https://karenwickre.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwickre/Previous Episode #7 featuring Karen Wickre https://www.wisepreneurs.au/karen-wickre-on-taking-the-work-out-of-networking/ Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter

In this episode of the Wisepreneurs Podcast, host Nigel Rawlins interviews Danielle Joworski, a visibility expert and entrepreneur, about the challenges and strategies for breaking the invisibility barrier in business. Danielle shares her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, addressing women's fears and obstacles in becoming more visible and successful in their businesses. She offers practical tips and insights on building confidence, leveraging community support, and strategically managing business activities to enhance visibility and achieve success.Key ThemesOvercoming visibility fears and boosting confidenceThe impact of ageism and sexism on women entrepreneursThe importance of community support and asking for helpStrategic delegation and operational management in businessTailoring visibility strategies to align with personal values and goalsMentionsRocket Fuel, The One Essential Combination That Will Get You More of What You Want from Your Business, by Gino WickmanHopscotch - Metaphor used by Danielle for breaking down goalsTV Show - Danielle’s experience in hosting a local TV showDanielle Joworski’s OfferVisibility Audit—Sign up for Danielle’s newsletter on her website to receive a free visibility audit. This will help you gain clarity on your visibility and practical steps to improve your business visibility.How to Contact Danielle JoworskiLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/daniellejoworski/  Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@daniellejoworskiWebsite: https://daniellejoworski.com Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter

In this special episode of the Wisepreneurs Podcast, I'm catching up with Jane Hudson, a Learning and Development (L&D) consultant specializing in regulatory training. Jane was guest number five on the podcast, and now, 50 episodes later, she returns to share her journey from corporate employment to running her own successful L&D consultancy. Jane discusses the intricacies of managing remote teams, effective pricing strategies, and the evolution of L&D post-COVID. The episode is packed with practical advice and insights for independent professionals, especially those in the L&D field.Themes Covered:Transitioning from corporate life to self-employmentManaging remote teams in learning and developmentEffective pricing strategies for L&D consultantsCreating impactful regulatory training programsBalancing work and personal life as an independent professionalEvolution of Learning and Development post-COVIDImportance of finding and defining a niche in L&DMentionsArticulate Storyline and RISE 360 (e-learning software)Australian Institute of Training and Development (AITD)Institute for Learning Professionals (ILP)WorkSafe Victoria (one of Jane’s past clients)Connect With Jane HudsonWebsite https://www.jbasslearning.com.au/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-hudson/ Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter

In this episode, Nigel Rawlins speaks with Peter Hatherley about the transformative power of AI in digital marketing and business optimization. Important points include the difference between generative and interactive AI, advanced SEO techniques using semantic entities, and the practical applications of AI tools for independent professionals.Key Topics Discussed:Peter Hatherley’s journey from digital marketing to AIThe development and impact of semantic entities in SEOGenerative AI vs. interactive AI: Definitions and applicationsOverview of Authored Intelligence products like Semantic Author and ConceptualityPractical uses of AI tools for content creation and business strategyOvercoming fears and misconceptions about AIFuture advancements in AI technology and their implicationsMentionsExxonMobilBNZPricewaterhouseEthan MollickAuthored IntelligenceFraseGemini 1.5 ProChatGPTGoogle BardConceptuality (Authored Intelligence)Semantic Author (Authored Intelligence)All-In-One Editor (Authored Intelligence)Storyline Author GPT (Authored Intelligence)Prompt Tag AuthorSunoProducts/Websites Mentioned:Authored Intelligence https://authoredintelligence.com/ChatGPT https://openai.com/Gemini 1.5 Pro https://gemini.google.com/Suno https://suno.com/Luma https://lumalabs.ai/dream-machineFrase https://www.frase.io/Special Offer Save $50 Conceptuality GPTplease note, prices are in USDhttp://conceptuality.productdyno.com/pay/EI4FCJJTUse the coupon: MTSRTSPH1Connect with Peter HatherleyLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterhatherley/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/1325663518289368Website https://authoredintelligence.com/ Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter

Episode Summary:In this episode, Dr. Holly Whelan shares her fascinating journey from academia to the corporate world and eventually to entrepreneurship. She discusses her transition from working in the laboratory to managing global brands at Unilever and how her passion for behaviour change and health led her to co-found Habit Partners® and Younger Lives. Holly emphasises the importance of sustainable habits, starting a business, and maintaining physical and mental well-being. She also touches on her collaboration with major organizations like Movember and Weight Watchers and offers practical advice for older professionals looking to stay healthy and engaged in their work.Key Topics Discussed:Holly’s academic background in Biology and NeuroscienceTransition from academia to Unilever and managing global brandsFounding Habit Partners® and Younger LivesImportance of sustainable habits for well-being and longevityChallenges and rewards of entrepreneurshipAddressing physical and mental health for aging professionalsCollaborations with organizations like Movember and Weight WatchersResources Mentioned:Books: Atomic Habits by James ClearPeople: Dr. Mark Cobain, Seth Godin, Joan (Train With Joan)Concepts: Life Age Test, Heart Age, Diabetes Age, behaviour change, habit stacking, behavioural activationConnect with the Holly:Website: Younger Lives GroupLinkedIn: Holly Whelan, PhDPrograms:Life Age TestHeart AgeDiabetes AgeExclusive Free Offer:Life AgeThe Life Age test takes about 5 minutes and is anonymous. It’s based on leading-edge research and provides a scientifically validated quick snapshot of how your daily habits affect you—and what you can do to feel your best and ‘years younger’ for life.Use the magic URL link https://lifeagetest.com/?code=VCJRLCOIthat automatically fills in the access code (valid until August 4, 2024). Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter

In this episode of the Wisepreneurs Podcast, my special guest is Debbie Jenkins, an accomplished author and publisher with a rich background in engineering. Debbie shares her thoughts on making a significant impact by writing short, valuable books to build credibility. Our discussion revolves around the themes presented in her books, "Stop the Credibility Crisis" and "Stop Writing Books Nobody Reads," and how embracing authenticity and using technology can drive business growth. Debbie’s unique approach emphasises the importance of credibility and how writing concise, impactful books can generate passive income and establish professional authority.Episode Highlights:•Debbie’s transition from engineering to publishing•Key insights from “Stop the Credibility Crisis”•Strategies for writing short, impactful books•The role of credibility in professional success•Using books as tools for business growth•Maintaining authenticity in the digital age•The influence of technology and AI in publishingResources Mentioned:Books:•“Stop the Credibility Crisis” by Debbie Jenkins•“Stop Writing Books Nobody Reads” by Debbie Jenkins•“The Emergent Approach to Strategy” by Peter CompoMentioned Names:•Ann Latham, author of “The Power of Clarity”•Liz Bywater, PhD, strategic CEO advisorConnect with Debbie Jenkins:•Website: Debbie Jenkins•LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debsjenkins/•Programs: Writing & Publishing Cohorts, Only Authors Club, The Asset Path® Weekly Strategy Calls—see Debbie's website for details Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the showConnect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/newStay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletterAs a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter