15 Minutes with the Boss

Jason Johnson, the Founder and CEO of Johnson Partners, shares his expertise in executive recruitment, having worked with major clients like Westpac. He reveals common mistakes even top executives make during interviews and emphasizes the importance of building rapport and showcasing strategic vision. The conversation also touches on how AI can prepare candidates for success in job hunting and the transformative ideas from the book 'The 80/80 Marriage,' advocating for radical generosity in both professional and personal relationships.

In this discussion, Jun Bei Liu, the founder and lead portfolio manager at TenCap, shares her insights on transforming mistakes into stepping stones for success. She reveals how to block out negativity and champions the importance of self-advocacy for career advancement. Jun Bei recounts her journey from China to Australia, highlighting resilience in overcoming cultural challenges. Emphasizing continuous learning and ambition, she encourages listeners to dream big and communicate effectively to navigate their professional paths.

John Carfi, CEO of Ingenia and expert in affordable housing, shares his compelling insights on leadership and productivity. He emphasizes the value of being admired over being liked in business. John reveals how quitting sugar and processed foods transformed his focus and energy, enhancing his mental clarity. He also highlights the critical role of first impressions in building rapport quickly, along with practical tips for maintaining personal fulfillment amidst a busy schedule.

Anthony Seibold, head coach of the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, shares his leadership lessons from CBA CEO Matt Comyn and his thoughts on the pressure faced in high-profile coaching roles. He discusses the significance of mental resilience, morning routines for wellness, and personal reflections on coaching failures. Seibold also critiques the mindset behind 'she’ll be right,' advocating for proactive solutions in sports. His insights into team morale and the importance of understanding in coaching provide a fascinating look into the dynamics of leadership in sports.

Jane Lu, Founder and CEO of Showpo, shares her fascinating journey from accounting to the thriving fashion world. She reveals why her husband reminds her she’s 'not special' and discusses the secrets behind her daily routine, including her unique sleep habits. Jane opens up about her unconventional decision to hide her job change from her parents and dives into the importance of resilience and risk-taking in business. With a playful take on entrepreneurship, she inspires listeners to embrace challenges and learn from failures.

Mark Scott, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sydney and former leader in journalism, discusses the value of seizing opportunities over rigid career planning. He highlights how maintaining relationships is crucial for executives and shares insights from his experiences managing challenges in complex environments, particularly related to the Middle East. Scott also reflects on the importance of personal growth through literature and the necessity of balancing career ambitions with meaningful connections in life.

Scott Hartley, the Chief Executive of Insignia Financial, shares his transformation from redundancy at NAB to leading a thriving company. He emphasizes how a challenging career shift pushed him toward personal reflection and effective leadership. With insights on building a high-performance culture, Scott discusses the importance of understanding team motivations and fostering meaningful connections. He also reveals his early morning routines and dreams of spending a year exploring photography and family connections, aiming for adventure and inspiration.

Matt Comyn, CEO of Commonwealth Bank of Australia and leader of 50,000 employees, discusses his journey through leadership and the importance of tackling tough challenges. He shares insights on how a flexible morning routine and prioritizing health can manage stress. Comyn believes in minimizing email use for better productivity and emphasizes sleep, exercise, and recovery for peak performance. He also touches on the evolution of his public speaking skills and the significance of reconnecting with personal heritage through language learning.

In this insightful discussion, Adam Powick, the CEO of Deloitte Australia, dives deep into the nuances of leadership and feedback. He shares how perceptions shape careers, revealing the sacrifices of time away from family for professional pursuits. Adam emphasizes the importance of balance and self-awareness while navigating modern challenges like generative AI and prompt engineering. His thoughts on resilience in personal and professional realms, alongside reflections on balancing work with passions, offer a compelling look into the life of a CEO.

In this engaging discussion, Melanie Silva, the Managing Director of Google in Australia and New Zealand, shares her insights on leadership and the power of intentional communication. She reflects on how her experiences as a mother shape her leadership style and emphasizes the importance of role models for aspiring individuals. Melanie also explores the art of negotiation, highlighting empathy and effective communication as key for cultivating long-term workplace relationships. Her journey underscores the value of resilience and navigating career challenges with self-awareness.