In the wrap-up of Season Two of the Troubleshooters podcast, host Michael McGrath highlights key insights from various episodes. Kelly Jamison of Edible Blooms discusses the importance of learning from mistakes and the benefits of limited capital. Matt Stillone of Protein Supplies Australia emphasizes the value of resilience, resourcefulness, and relationships in business. Tom Waterhouse shares his journey from bookmaking to online betting and his experiences with mentorship. Tom Hardwick talks about scaling businesses and the impact of the GFC. Tim Hutchinson from Skills GPT AI discusses the practical applications of AI in workforce management and the importance of security and continuous improvement. The podcast aims to inspire and motivate listeners with real-life business stories.

In this episode, Frank Li, a China market specialist, shares his journey from arriving in Australia unable to speak English at age 10 to becoming the Dux of his Catholic school by year 12! He discusses his career path, including his MBA from AGSM and his transition to China in 2004. Frank founded 31Jiu, a beverage distribution company, and later secured distribution rights for Bundaberg ginger beer in China, which became a huge success. Despite challenges, including a severe lockdown in Shanghai, Frank sold his business to Jebsen Group in 2022. He now consults Australian brands entering the Chinese market, emphasizing the importance of cultural understanding and strategic partnerships.

In this episode, Tim Hutchinson, co-founder and CEO, shares his journey from studying zoology to leading SkillsGPT, a pioneering generative AI business. Tim discusses how SkillsGPT is helping organisations adopt AI strategically, enabling them to adapt to change and gain a competitive advantage. Tim provides examples of AI’s current and potential impact on work, emphasising the need for a 'lifelong learning' approach for all employees. He offers listeners a thoughtful perspective on ethical considerations, how AI is reshaping the workforce and how successful AI adoption should be led “from the boardroom, not the server room.” Tim illustrates SkillsGPT’s role in helping 75,000 Australian regional SMEs adopt AI through the Australian Regional AI Network (ARAIN), a Federal Government-supported initiative. Focused on SMEs in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and clean energy, ARAIN and SkillsGPT guide successful AI adoption with free access to tools, education, and insights. For FREE early access to ARAIN’s AI adoption resources, register at arain.com.au

Nick Armstrong, an entrepreneur since university, launched his latest venture, Chirp, which uses AI to enhance sales pipeline conversion. Nick discussed his journey, starting with GreenTriCity in 2005, which was acquired by AGL. He then founded Co Zero, Australia's fastest-growing company in 2011, before pivoting to Identity, a neobank addressing anti-money laundering challenges. Identity listed on the ASX in 2018, but Nick moved on to Chirp, targeting B2B SaaS companies with 5-20 sales reps. Chirp uses AI to qualify deals, automate research, and suggest next steps, aiming to improve win rates and productivity.

Sheree Sullivan, an entrepreneur since age 19, discussed her journey from cheese making to hospitality and electro-enhanced beer. She highlighted her parents' entrepreneurial influence and the challenges of starting a business. Sheree transitioned from a goat dairy to a cheese factory, eventually selling 90% to a Japanese trade buyer. She then scaled Grunthal Brew, a hospitality venue, and introduced eBEER, a low-carb, high-flavour beer with unique brewing techniques. Sheree emphasised the importance of financial sustainability, leveraging products over time, and the value of fun in business.

Tom is an experienced CEO and entrepreneur. He has demonstrated a history of scaling businesses both organically and through acquisitions.