
15 Minutes with the Boss
15 Minutes with the Boss is a podcast that gives listeners exclusive access to some of the top CEOs in the country.
Each week AFR BOSS editor Sally Patten sits down with a prominent leader and asks them to share the invaluable advice and wisdom they have accumulated throughout their careers.
For stories of success and failure and everything in-between, search and follow 15 Minutes with the Boss. It’s 15 minutes you can’t afford to miss.
Latest episodes

Jul 8, 2024 • 19min
David Tudehope: Leaving a safe corporate job, Cleopatra’s adaptability and staying ahead of cybercriminals
In this week’s episode, CEO of Macquarie Telecom David Tudehope talks about the risk of leaving a safe banking job to pursue the world of entrepreneurship, the business lessons he’s learnt from Cleopatra and he discusses the accelerating pace of cybercrime.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jul 1, 2024 • 19min
The call that changed Grant McCabe's life, ultimate dinner guests and why young people should back themselves
Grant McCabe, the Managing Director of Boston Consulting Group in Australasia, discusses the importance of self-confidence for young professionals. He reflects on a transformative experience in Boston and shares his ideal dinner guests. Grant emphasizes how embracing uncertainty can lead to personal fulfillment and encourages the pursuit of meaningful side projects. He also shares life lessons from a car restoration project during the pandemic, highlighting perseverance and integrity as essential qualities for growth.

Jun 24, 2024 • 19min
Simon Griffiths: How to put together successful teams, risking psychosis and why he dislikes flying business class
Join Simon Griffiths, the innovative CEO and co-founder of Who Gives a Crap, as he shares the unconventional wisdom that revamped his hiring process. Discover the hilarious yet eye-opening tale of his 50-hour toilet-sitting stunt, which became a viral sensation. Simon discusses the importance of prioritizing mental health, effective team dynamics, and the need for restorative sleep while navigating the challenges of running an eco-friendly business. Plus, hear why he sometimes opts for a disguise while traveling!

Jun 17, 2024 • 19min
Philippa Watson: Navigating risk, ruthless prioritisation and what not to tell your boss’ boss’ boss’ boss’ boss
Philippa Watson, CEO of Ubank and a seasoned leader in the banking industry, shares her insights on navigating leadership during tough times. She emphasizes the importance of prioritising health and routine while discussing her pivotal career transition amid the 2008 financial crisis. Watson also highlights the value of lateral moves for skill development and discusses what she's learned from Gen Z, including their approach to risk and innovation in the workplace. Her anecdotes on balancing work-life and community engagement add an entertaining touch.

Jun 10, 2024 • 19min
Why Paul Heath hates the ‘kitchen sink’ , identifying pain of change and reasons to embrace the fool
Paul Heath, CEO of Coda Capital, shares insights on why change is so challenging in the workplace, using metaphors of messy kitchens to illustrate deeper issues. He discusses his refreshing morning routine, featuring coffee and ocean swims, as crucial for mental clarity. The conversation also navigates the complexities of office and remote work transitions, emphasizing the need for leadership that embraces change. Paul also highlights the joy of coffee culture and the enriching experiences of immersive travel, linking these to work-life balance and personal growth.

Jun 3, 2024 • 19min
Cathy O'Connor: How to survive a dud launch; unshackling from groupthink & training the brain
Cathy O'Connor, CEO of oOh!media, shares her journey in the advertising world. She highlights the lessons learned from failed launches and the value of hiring talent from outside the industry. Cathy emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity in leadership and trusting one's instincts in decision-making, while also addressing the pitfalls of overconfidence. She offers practical advice for young executives, advocating for resilience and adaptability as keys to effective leadership.

May 27, 2024 • 18min
Matt Heine: Accidental diminishing traits, permission to brainstorm and how to claw back time
Matt Heine, Chief Executive of NetWealth, shares insightful productivity hacks from his robust experience in managing a $5 billion wealth platform. He discusses the pitfalls of being an 'ideas fountain' and how it can hinder team dynamics. Matt emphasizes the importance of structured morning routines and using innovative tools like Microsoft's Co-Pilot to streamline time management. He also reflects on the challenges of truly disconnecting during vacations and his strategies for effective delegation to empower staff.

May 20, 2024 • 19min
Tony Ayres: Succeed without being ruthless, power of the unsent email & the rule of 3
Tony Ayres, an award-winning TV producer and founder of Matchbox Pictures, shares his insights on achieving success without ruthlessness. He discusses the intriguing world of scam podcasts and how they inspire storytelling. With a focus on the rule of three, Ayres emphasizes effective public speaking techniques. He also candidly reflects on handling rejection while highlighting the importance of hobbies, like table tennis, for maintaining a balanced life. This blend of creativity, authenticity, and humor makes for an engaging conversation.

May 13, 2024 • 18min
Adam Powick: Failing to make partner twice, BS advice bosses give & future of space travel
Deloitte CEO Adam Powick shares his journey of self-discovery, having faced setbacks in his career. He emphasizes the power of 'thinking time' and the crucial influence of external perception over self-view. The discussion touches on the significance of informal mentorship and the impact of generative AI in the workplace. Adam also explores the future of space travel and inspires listeners to pursue their passions, even considering a year off for adventure and growth.

May 6, 2024 • 18min
Jenny Child: Making good career decisions, getting the most out of her commute and her main asset
Jenny Child, the CEO of Oroton and former McKinsey consultant, shares her journey from contemplating a medical career to leading a luxury brand. She discusses how her charity work fueled her career and highlights the importance of problem-solving skills. Jenny emphasizes making thoughtful career decisions and the value of using commuting time productively. She also shares insights on effective communication in business and reflects on personal growth through family travel, blending professional ambitions with core family values.
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