How I Made It

Leading Australia’s largest airline is by all accounts a dream job.  But in 2012, Bruce Buchanan – who was on track to become chief executive of Qantas – walked away from the national carrier. He now runs one of the world’s hottest tech companies: $7.2 billion e-commerce marketing tech firm Rokt. This week on How I Made It, Rich List editor Yolanda Redrup pulls back the curtain to find out how this former aviation executive built a company that became a giant of the tech world. This podcast was sponsored by Telstra.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trinny Woodall first became a household name as one half of the dynamic duo, Trinny and Susannah. Together the pair built a career issuing fashion advice to women on their long-running BBC series, What Not to Wear. But at the age of 53 Woodall decided it was time to step out on her own, launching eponymous beauty brand Trinny London. On this week’s episode of How I Made It, fashion editor Lauren Sams finds out how the former television host became a beauty disruptor standing at the helm of a multimillion-dollar company. This podcast was sponsored by Telstra.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Jensen, founder and CEO of MJ Bale, shares his fascinating journey from a Merino sheep farm to becoming a leading name in menswear. He discusses spotting a gap in the market during his banking days in London, which inspired his transition into fashion. Matt reflects on his early struggles with Herringbone, detailing critical lessons learned during its administration. He emphasizes MJ Bale's commitment to natural fibres and sustainability, revealing how partnerships with local growers and sports teams shape their innovative approach.

When the co-founder and former chief executive of The Big Group was 21, he had just $500 in his pocket. Not afraid of risk, Bruce Keebaugh and his wife, Chyka Keebaugh, used it to champion the competitive world of catering and events. This week on How I Made it, The Australian Financial Review’s Lauren Sams finds out how this hospitality guru came to dominate an industry. This podcast was sponsored by Telstra.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rod Drury, serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Xero, shares his inspiring journey from a high school computing enthusiast to leading a $28 billion tech company. He discusses the pivotal moment when a napkin deal sparked the creation of Xero, his early entrepreneurial ventures, and why he planned for Xero to be public from day one. Rod reflects on the challenges of entering new markets, why he stepped down as CEO, and his focus on impactful projects in his post-CEO life. His story is a blend of passion, strategy, and a bit of luck.

Jose Bryce Smith, the founder of Original & Mineral (O&M), chats about her whirlwind journey from a holiday in Australia to creating a global haircare empire. She shares how personal tragedy fueled her work ethic, her innovative shift to low-chemical products, and the challenges of launching O&M. Jose dives into overcoming manufacturing crises, battling gender bias, and the strategic decisions that propelled her brand forward. With 320 products in 21 countries, her story is a testament to resilience, vision, and community.

How I Made It is back with new hosts Lauren Sams & Yolanda Redrup. Join us to learn how Australia’s top entrepreneurs built their fortunes and what they learnt along the way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this engaging discussion, brothers Sam and Ryan Kroonenburg share their entrepreneurial journey, building a $2 billion cloud training company from humble beginnings. They delve into the complexities of wealth and happiness, revealing why Sam chooses not to send his kids to private schools despite their success. Listeners gain insights into transforming setbacks into business opportunities and the challenges of balancing family life with entrepreneurship, all while navigating rapidly evolving tech landscapes.

Kerry Harmanis, entrepreneur who sold Jubilee Mines for $3.1 billion, shares his journey from law to mining, discussing strategic decision-making, starting Jubilee Mines, the crucial Cosmos discovery, and the importance of leadership. He also touches on meditation for mental balance, creating wealth, and reflections on personal growth.

Paul Blackburne, a successful property developer, shares his insights on wealth, happiness, and entrepreneurship. He discusses the success trap, diversifying investments into stocks like Afterpay and Bitcoin, and the importance of balancing material possessions with inner contentment. Blackburne also reflects on his real estate development strategy, philanthropy in Cambodia, and challenges misconceptions about Perth's real estate industry.