1300 661 904
Added to Enquiry List

5 Tips for Post-Pandemic Strategy Success

Strategy success - Belinda Brosnan

“Without a compass bearing, a ship would neither find its port nor be able to estimate the time required to get there.” – Peter Drucker

Before the pandemic hit, most organisations had a strategy in place to get them to where they wanted to be. Then covid chaos reigned, and all those painstakingly prescriptive strategies, thoughtfully refined and unanimously endorsed, flew right out the window. Busy triaging emergencies, the focus was squarely on survival. But now it’s time to refocus, gather up your learnings and plot out a sustainable path forward. While we don’t have a post-pandemic playbook for you, we do have strategic leadership expert Belinda Brosnan – and she’s got five excellent tips to help set your new strategy up for success!

While the pandemic may have blown a hole in your old strategy document, the experience gained over the last couple of years is invaluable when it comes to setting your business up for the future. As Oliver Wendell Holmes said, “A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.” Use those learnings to build the foundations of your new strategy. And keep these tips in mind if you want that strategy to work.

1. Strategy without culture is senseless
Neither eats the other for breakfast. As an example, if your past strategy was based on the primary operating model of operational efficiency, then switching to a strategy with the primary operating model of customer intimacy cannot succeed without incorporating the culture needed to make that happen. As you get your strategy planning underway, there must be a conversation about culture. Without it, your strategy will go nowhere very fast.

Involve those who matter most in the development of your strategy, as they will make or break your progress. Also reflect on your values and how they should influence your strategy development – they are, after all, meant to be living, breathing words in action!

2. Slow down to speed up
Right now, executives are exhausted. Planning for the future can be overwhelming, especially if they’re already navigating huge change and transformation. Patience levels are often challenged.

One of the quotes I love is from John Legend – “the future started yesterday and we’re already late”.  The trap of the reactionary nature necessitated by the pandemic has meant that strategy has taken a back seat, with many organisations in survival mode. Organisations and their executives feel like they are in a perpetual treadmill of ‘catching up’. As many scramble to piece together a strategic direction for the future that incorporates some of the greatest challenges faced, including the war for talent, exhaustion levels mean good strategic thinking is hindered.

The shift to hybrid working has also meant many people are forgetting how to build connections with each other. Short fuses mean stunted strategy. Make space in your strategy development for thinking and reconnecting. Change your environment. Strategy developed in the same place you work means your ‘at work’ behaviours may sabotage great thought leadership (think phones, emails, interruptions).

3. Ditch vague platitudes, dial up conversation
Just as important as developing a strategy is taking the time to create the foundations for robust conversation.

As a practitioner of Judith Glaser’s work on conversational intelligence, your strategy (and culture) is only as good as the quality of the conversations you are having. Strategy plans need to mitigate the temptation to fall into jargon that ‘sounds’ professional, but ultimately is vague and multidimensional in meaning.

This means being willing to drill down into often-used words that have no ‘active’ meaning. For example, maybe your company’s mission is a brighter future for customers? How will you know the future is bright? How can you see it, hear it, feel it, touch it? If you are to bring your people with you for the ride, your end game (and their important contribution to that) needs to be explicit.

During a culture change program I worked on years ago, the executives were relentlessly communicating to their people the importance of flexibility as part of their strategy. The shift in market pressures on the price of coal meant that cost-cutting alone would not deliver the results required. Strategically, they wanted to explore culturally how to create productivity gains. Flexibility was deemed essential to this.

The only trouble was, most of their people had no idea what flexibility meant for them in action. “When the leadership team say we need to be flexible, does that mean I should drive a vehicle I don’t have a license for? Does flexibility mean they are expecting me to work longer hours for no additional pay? Does flexibility mean I have to take on a different role now?”.

The executive team were equally frustrated. Despite their continuing reference to flexibility, nothing was really changing.  When the executive team realised the missing in translation impact, they were able to engage in real conversation that explored what flexibility meant in action for individuals, and HOW it would make a difference to the results of the organisation. Be clear on what is needed in action. Otherwise, the status quo will remain.

4. Progress, not perfection
The complexity of systems, large organisations and shifting context means that aiming for perfection will see your strategy development become fraught with issues and interpersonal conflict. A strategy with a 3-5-year horizon, and small defined goalposts within that, will ensure there is built-in flexibility. This means a focus more on small, achievable shifts that reduce risk and build in flexibility and resilience. It also means less uncertainty for your people who need stability and hope from their leaders.

As Alex Komoroske, head of strategy for Stripe describes, be less ‘builder’ and more ‘gardener’ with strategy and its application. Remember strategy is a living, breathing thing, rather than a few pages stuffed in the desk drawer.

5. Reframe resistance
As you work through strategy, siloed thinking and ‘us vs them’ pressures can interfere with the alignment of your people and the strategy forward. Resistance through this process may be seen as personal or even political. Leading strategy means you need to see resistance for its simplicity before taking it personally. Resistance is telling you that there is fear or lack of information holding you back from being influential. If you are committed to the process of developing and implementing strategy, then learn to let go more and dial up the curiosity and perspective required to gain full perspective. Influence will follow.

Covid-19 wasn’t the first major disruption in history, and it won’t be the last. But crisis really can be a powerful catalyst for positive change.

We’ve learned the hard way that strategy can no longer be a set-and-forget proposition – you need to incorporate all those covid learnings into a flexible, adaptable strategy that allows you to course-correct if necessary. But even the best strategy in the world won’t succeed if you don’t have the right building blocks in place to bring that strategy to life. With the right culture, taking the time to reconnect, clearly defining what’s required and understanding any resistance, your strategy will get the support it needs to bring you the results it was designed to achieve.

_____________________

In a time where change and uncertainty is the new status quo, Belinda Brosnan is an expert at finding clarity and direction amidst the chaos. With credentials in executive coaching, conversational intelligence and NeuroLeadership, Belinda is a gifted communicator and powerful motivational speaker. With a relaxed and real approach, Belinda’s presentations are thought-provoking, humorous and supremely practical, inspiring leaders to adapt, level-up and influence in these changing times. If you’d like Belinda to help take your team to the next level, talk to us about engaging her for your event today!

The World’s Greatest: Top 10 International Motivational Speakers

World's Best Motivational Speakers

Along with the emergence of tracksuit pants as acceptable workwear, one of the biggest pandemic silver linings was the escalation of our virtual game. Online platforms like Zoom single-handedly revolutionised the global meetings and events space, opening us up to a world of possibilities – literally! Down here in Oz, the best Motivational Speakers on the planet used to be largely inaccessible to all but those with the biggest budgets. The addition of flights, accommodation, travel time and expenses to venue hire and catering costs prohibited most from hiring a big-name headliner. But now? With Wi-Fi on your side, your options are endless.

To save you trawling through those endless options, we’ve put together our Top 10 International Motivational Speakers – the best of the best. These 10 dynamic and captivating storytellers all have incredible presence online, with a wonderful ability to provide maximum impact and engagement over the airwaves – get ready to be blown away!

Top 10 International Motivational Speakers

1. Bear Grylls
Bear GryllsFormer British Special Forces Soldier, TV Presenter and Best-Selling Author, Bear Grylls, is one of the most recognisable adventurers in the world. One of the youngest climbers ever to reach the summit of Mount Everest (despite breaking his back in a parachuting accident in Africa), Bear earned his reputation for courage and resilience early on. Millions of fans around the globe now tune in weekly to watch him pit his legendary survival skills against the worst of Mother Nature on some of the world’s most-watched TV shows. Bear is also a best-selling author, having written over 90 books, selling over 15 million copies worldwide – including his autobiography, “Mud, Sweat and Tears”, which spent 15 weeks at Number 1 in the Sunday Times bestseller list. Bear’s resilient mindset and astonishing achievements, recounted during his high-energy presentations, are powerful motivators for any team! Read more about Bear here.

2. Erin Brockovich
Erin BrockovichWhile working as a file clerk in a law office, Erin Brockovich uncovered what would end up being one of the most publicised corporate cover-ups in history. Through exhaustive instigative work, Erin discovered that utility giant PG & E had been leaking toxic Chromium 6 into the groundwater in Hinkley, California, with tragic consequences for local residents. This discovery led to the largest direct-action lawsuit of its kind, and eventually the largest toxic tort injury settlement in US history. In 2000, Julia Roberts starred in the Oscar-winning movie based on Erin’s life, making Erin Brockovich a household name. Erin continues to be involved in numerous environmental projects worldwide and is one of the most requested motivational speakers on the international circuit, sharing her empowering story and encouraging others to stand up and make a difference. Read more about Erin here.

3. Simon Sinek
simon sinekBest known for popularising the concept of finding your ‘Why’, which was the topic of the second most-watched TED talk of all time, Simon Sinek is a visionary thinker with rare intellect. Passionate about teaching leaders and organisations how to inspire people so that they go home every day feeling fulfilled, Simon’s unconventional and innovative views on business and leadership have attracted international attention. Along with multinational corporations, Simon has shared his ideas with the United Nations, the United States Congress and the senior leadership of the United States Air Force and United States Marine Corps. He’s also authored two best-selling books and shares his optimistic views on stage as one of the most highly-regarded and captivating motivational speakers in the world. Read more about Simon here.

4. Dame Helena Morrissey
helena morrissey
When Dame Helena Morrissey, the only woman in a team of 16 Fund Managers, missed out on a promotion due to ‘doubt over her commitment with a baby’, she decided enough was enough. She resolved to take control of her career, to provide for her family (which now includes nine children) and to help other women. She joined Newton Investment Management, was appointed CEO after seven years and over the next 15 years more than trebled company profits. In 2010 Helena launched the 30% Club to improve the gender balance on UK corporate boards, and as a result women now represent over 30% of FTSE350 directors. There are also now fourteen 30% Clubs throughout the world, including the world’s largest cross-company mentoring scheme. Nominated by Fortune magazine as one of the world’s 50 Greatest Leaders, Helena was also named Financial Times Person of the Year in 2017. As a speaker, Helena offers unparalleled vision, experience and practical solutions for both companies and talent. Read more about Helena here.

5. Colonel Chris Hadfield
chris hadfieldAs children, we are often told to ‘reach for the stars’. And as the first Canadian to walk in space, Chris Hadfield fulfilled a life-long dream by doing just that! Chris is a heavily decorated astronaut, engineer and pilot, having been awarded the Order of Canada, the Meritorious Service Cross and the NASA Exceptional Service Medal. Chris was also named the Top Test Pilot in both the US Air Force and the US Navy, and was inducted into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame. He has flown three space missions, building two space stations, performing two spacewalks, crewing the shuttle and commanding the International Space Station. Oh, and he’s also authored three international bestsellers, co-created and hosted the internationally acclaimed BBC series Astronauts and joined actor Will Smith to host the National Geographic series One Strange Rock! With riveting stories and powerful advice, Chris’ entertaining presentations deliver valuable lessons on commitment, intelligence, hard work and sacrifice. Read more about Chris here.

6. Abby Wambach
abby wambachAbby Wambach is a soccer icon. As a two-time Olympic Gold Medallist, FIFA World Cup Champion and six-time winner of the U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year award, Abby is also widely considered one of the most dominant players in soccer history. Following her retirement from soccer in 2015, Abby embarked on a mission to empower women, becoming is a vocal activist for equality and inclusion and co-founding the Wolfpack Endeavour in an effort to revolutionise leadership development for women. Her first book, WOLFPACK, became a #1 New York Times Best Seller, while her podcast was named the #1 New Podcast of 2021 on Apple Podcasts. A true leader on and off the field, Abby inspires audiences around the globe by sharing her journey, her winning habits and her leadership insights. Read more about Abby here.

7. Robyn Benincasa
Robyn-BenincasaRobyn Benincasa is a veteran firefighter, World Champion Adventure racer, Guinness World Record Endurance Kayaker and best-selling author. She’s also recognised globally as one of the best speakers you’re ever likely to hear. Through 20+ years of gruelling and life-affirming Adventure Racing challenges, Robyn has emerged with a truly unique perspective on what it takes to build the kind of world-class teams that triumph in the face of great adversity. Robyn inspires people to grab life with one hand, grab their teammates with the other, and to create that special magic that makes everyone better together than they ever would have been alone. Her keynotes are powerful, impactful and packed with practical, real-world takeaways that inspire peak performance and exceptional leadership. Grab hold of your seats, Robyn’s incredible stories and breathtaking footage of extreme teams in action is an invigorating ride that will leave audiences energised and inspired. Read more about Robyn here.

8. Chris Gardner
chris gardnerIf you haven’t read Chris Gardner’s New York Times and Washington Post #1 Bestseller ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’, or seen the critically acclaimed film it inspired, you’re one of the few. Born into a cycle of child abandonment, abuse, alcoholism, domestic violence, fear, poverty and illiteracy – and later as a working homeless Veteran with a toddler son – Chris Gardner overcame immense challenges to create the life he’s living now. Chris introduces audiences to the concepts of Spiritual Genetics (that which makes you You), the Universal Dream (you can do or be anything you want to do or be) and the importance of having the ‘P’s’ in our life – Promise, Passion and a Plan. He also shows us how owning our actions gives us the power to change things. A captivating speaker with a powerful story, Chris inspires audiences to see real beauty in the world. Read more about Chris here.

9. Risha Grant
risha grantRisha Grant has always been motivated by her passion to correct societal “isms” like racism, sexism, classism and plain old stupidism. It’s her personal mission to expose the subtleties and values of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion while shining a light on the impacts they create. Featured in publications including Forbes, Harvard Business Review and The Financial Times, Risha has received a host of honours including being named one of the Top 10 Most Powerful Women Leaders in HR in 2021. Risha uses honest, humorous and vulnerable storytelling to talk about the destructive power of unconscious bias, micro-aggressions and other actions that perpetuate discrimination and inequality to motivate audiences to embrace acceptance – without evoking judgement or blame. Audiences leave with easily applied principles for finding respect, understanding and inclusion both personally and professionally. Read more about Risha here.

10. Warren MacDonald
warren macdonaldWarren MacDonald’s inspirational story of survival began in April 1997 when he became trapped beneath a boulder in a freak rock fall when climbing the tallest peak on Queensland’s Hinchinbrook Island. Rescued after two days, Warren’s legs had to be amputated at mid-thigh. Incredibly, with just 10 months of rehabilitation behind him, Warren succeeded in climbing Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain. Then in 2003, Warren then became the first double above-knee amputee to reach the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro, and later that year climbed America’s tallest cliff face, El Capitan. He’s also the first over-the-knee amputee to ascend Canada’s ‘Weeping Wall’, a frozen waterfall. Warren has appeared on numerous news and current affairs programs, including ‘Larry King Live’ and ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’, inspiring millions of people to never give up, no matter the challenge. Warren’s gripping story and his natural ability to connect with people also makes him one of the world’s best speakers, motivating others to achieve the ‘unachievable’. Read more about Warren here.

_____________________

With a world full of incredibly inspiring talent, compiling a list of the Top 10 International Motivational Speakers was no easy task! If you’d like us to curate a list relevant to your specific needs and goals, simply get in touch with us for a chat.

Captivating Kiwi’s: New Zealand’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers

NZ Top 10 Motivational Speaker

From the bustling city and volcanic fields of Auckland to the heart-pumping adventures and jaw-dropping natural wonders of Queenstown, New Zealand is a genuine tourist mecca. More than a rich blend of cultures, laid-back Kiwi charm and an abundance of sheep (at least 10 to every person – true!), its NZ’s world-class natural attractions that steal the show. Think lush green hills and thermal springs, picturesque fjords and glaciers, magnificent mountain peaks and Middle Earth. Their Motivational Speakers also happen to be some of the best in the world – and we’d love to introduce you.

Whether it’s New Zealand’s first female Prime Minister, one of the world’s best rugby players, the first Kiwi to reach the South Pole unsupported or the legendary man behind one of the world’s best-known retail empires, our New Zealand Motivational Speakers are a cut above. Passionate, dynamic and thought-provoking, these 10 master storytellers are guaranteed to captivate and inspire your audience.

New Zealand’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers

1. Ngahihi o te ra Bidois
Ngahi o te ra BidoisNgahihi motivational speaker is ‘The Face of New Zealand’. Blending ancient Maori wisdom with modern solutions, Ngahi cleverly uses his unique life experiences and extensive qualifications to educate, influence and inspire people to be their best. Ngahi’s flawless speaking skills have taken him to all corners of the globe and earnt him worldwide recognition, with awards including New Zealand Speaker of the Year and multiple Inspirational Speaker of the Year awards. His uplifting, powerful presentation will have your audience on their feet, laughing, crying and inspired to act. Read more about Ngahihi here.

2. Tony Christiansen
tony christiansen motivational speakerDespite losing his legs in a tragic train accident at the age of 9, Tony Christiansen’s self-belief and incredible never-say-die attitude overcame every limitation set by others. His disability has never held him back – his list of accomplishments is truly extraordinary and includes: scaling the heights of Mount Kilimanjaro; becoming an athlete, swimmer and Paralympics’ medallist; racing a two-man bobsled down the Utah Olympic Park route; qualifying as an open water scuba diver; becoming a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, as well as motor racing champion, certified lifeguard and qualified pilot. Oh, and he’s also authored 3 best-selling books! In amongst all that, he started his own successful business, married and became a father. His stunning mindset and remarkable life story, told with humour and great passion, leaves audiences inspired to embrace the challenges that lie ahead. Read more about Tony here.

3. Dame Jenny Shipley
Dame Jenny Shipley motivational speakerAs New Zealand’s first female Prime Minister, Dame Jenny Shipley is widely considered a formidable leader, a global economics expert and an authority on global mega trends. She currently sits on the board of The Club of Madrid – a group of around 100 former Presidents and Prime Ministers who give their time and share their expertise to promote democracy worldwide. As a member of the World Women’s Leadership Council and Global Leaders Council for Reproductive Health, and having chaired Global Women NZ and Champions for Change, Dame Jenny is also an advocate and inspiration for women in leadership. Her business acumen is utilised in board positions across the globe, while she draws on her vast, rich knowledge base to share her tools for success and motivate and inspire the leaders of the future through her commanding presentations. Read more about Dame Jenny here.

4. Michael Hill
Michael Hillmichael hill motivational speaker is a household name in the retail world. Founder of Michael Hill Jeweller, one of the world’s most recognisable jewellery brands, Michael has achieved incredible success, growing his brand from 10 stores in 1987 to a chain of over 250 stores worldwide in 2022. Michael’s personal achievements are also legendary – he’s built a private golf course that has hosted the NZ Open and won numerous design awards, published a book about his success, won Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of The Year award, been inducted into the World Entrepreneur of The Year Hall of Fame and been named NZ Herald Business Leader of the Year. He’s also a wonderful motivational speaker, sharing his story and providing practical advice for achieving success in all areas of life. Read more about Michael here.

5. Kevin Biggar
kevin biggarKevin Biggar was a couch potato when he decided to take part in the 5,000km trans-Atlantic rowing race. An unusual choice for someone who hadn’t rowed before and was prone to sea-sickness. But not only did he win, he set a new world record. He then set his sights on an even tougher challenge – the first ever unsupported trek from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole and back. Is there ayone better qualified to talk about techniques to help teams take on and persevere through big, audacious challenges? With highly visual and entertaining presentations honed through years of experience hosting TVNZ’s series ‘First Crossings’ and ‘Intrepid NZ’, audiences are riveted by Kevin’s delightful combination of rollicking, outrageous anecdotes and insightful, practical advice. Read more about Kevin here.

6. Cam Calkoen
Cam CalkoenBeing born with Cerebral Palsy didn’t stop Cam Calkoen from chasing his dreams. Continually confounding expectations, Cam won gold medals in the 100 and 200 metres in New Zealand, Australia and Canada and went on to become a full-time speaker… not bad for someone who was told that walking and talking would always be a struggle! Cam’s unique message inspires people to believe things are possible way beyond their thinking, providing stories, tactics and strategies to enhance wellbeing, thrive beyond adversity, build a positive mindset and enhance resilience. And he delivers his presentations in authentic, mesmerising style – little wonder he was awarded NZ Speaker of the Year in 2020! Read more about Cam here.

7. Bruce Cotterill
Bruce CotterillBruce Cotterill is a passionate transformation leader and highly regarded advisor to business leaders. As a five-time CEO and professional director with a portfolio comprising six boards, Bruce has extensive experience across a range of industries and is renowned for creating the ‘7 Principles of Profit’. As a master storyteller, he shares his personal stories of business transformation with humour and engaging style, and provides helpful resources and tools to inspire people to become better leaders and improve their business performance. Read more about Bruce here.

8. Gilbert Enoka
Gilbert EnokaGilbert Enoka has worked with the business and sporting elite on performance enhancement for over twenty years, building a reputation as NZ’s leading mental skills coach. Having worked as a mental skills coach for the All Blacks, Canterbury Crusaders, the Silver Ferns and the Black Caps among others, Gilbert cleverly applies his insight into the psychology behind success in world-level sport to everyday life. He thrives on preparing people for the hurdles that life puts in front of them, and presents brilliantly on leadership, performing under pressure, mental management, strategic planning, effective business management and building thriving cultures. Read more about Gilbert here.

9. Jamie Fitzgerald
Jamie FitzgeraldIn 2007, Jamie Fitzgerald became the first Kiwi ever to reach the South Pole unsupported on foot with fellow adventurer Kevin Biggar. Their 52-day expedition created media attention worldwide for the business-like approach they took to reach their goal – an approach that has seen Jamie succeed in many other areas of his life too. A world record for crossing the 5000 km Atlantic Ocean in a tiny rowboat, elite representation with New Zealand Rowing and double New Zealand representation in rowing and surf lifesaving as well as professional achievements on an equally impressive scale. Hundreds of thousands of people around the world have benefited from Jamie’s insightful and compelling messages. Whether it’s dealing with uncertainty, team effectiveness, goal setting, communication or dispute resolution, Jamie’s unique approach to success is guaranteed to inspire and motivate. Read more about Jamie here.

10. Sir Graham Henry
sir graham henrySir Graham Henry is one of the most successful rugby coaches of all time, having coached the All Blacks to 88 wins from 103 Tests for a winning percentage of 85.4 per cent. He’s also a five-time Coach of the Year award winner and World Rugby Hall of Fame inductee. With experience playing first-class sport himself, and with a successful teaching career behind him, Graham is as comfortable on the podium as he is on the pitch. His speaking skills are in demand around the world, and you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone better qualified to talk about succeeding in a high-performance environment, team culture, motivation, development and leadership. Read more about Graham here.

_____________________

With so much incredible Kiwi talent on offer, it really was supremely difficult to select NZ’s top 10 Motivational Speakers! If you have a brief for us we’d be happy to provide you with a curated list specific to your needs… simply get in touch with us for a chat to get the ball rolling!

12 Ways to Celebrate NAIDOC Week 2022

NAIDOC blog post cover

During the first week of July every year, NAIDOC festivities are held across Australia to recognise and celebrate the extensive history, rich culture and vast achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – the oldest living continuing culture on earth.

This year’s NAIDOC theme, ‘Get up! Stand up! Show up!’ is a call-to-action for all Australians to help acknowledge, protect and maintain First Nations cultures and heritages. It’s a chance for everyone to better understand the challenges facing Indigenous communities, respectfully honour the traditional custodians of our land and help create real, enduring change. So how can you help? We’re so glad you asked…

Take the time to learn

1) Learn about the traditional owners of the land you live and work on using the AIATSIS Map of Indigenous Australia
2) Learn how to deliver an appropriate Acknowledgement of Country

Show your support

3) If your business needs contractors for anything from graphic design to construction, consider choosing from the 3,500+ verified Indigenous businesses listed on Supply Nation Indigenous Business Direct
4)  Visit the Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander exhibitions of museums and galleries online or in-person.
5) Looking for a book? Find one written and published by Indigenous authors and illustrators at Magabala Books
6) Support Aboriginal education by donating to Aboriginal education institutions such as the Tranby Aboriginal College
7) Donate to groups like the Australians for National Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR) and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healing Foundation – they depend heavily on voluntary donations. And remember, donations are tax-deductible!

Create a NAIDOC Week event

8) Engage a motivational speaker of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent to talk to your team about the challenges they’ve faced and their journey to success. We can introduce you to a number of incredible Indigenous speakers, including:

Isaiah Daweshelley_ware nova peris
Isaiah DaweShelley WareNova Peris
Steph Tisdellnarelda jacobscathy freeman
Steph TisdellNarelda JacobsCathy Freeman

9) Consider organising a fundraising event, and donating all money raised to charities such as the Healing Foundation, the Northern Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency or ANTaR. Our Indigenous motivational speakers are the perfect drawcard for a NAIDOC Week event!

Advocate and create change

10) Create cultural awareness programs or organise Cultural Competency training for staff – you can visit the Centre for Cultural Competence Australia to complete online training as a team
11) Implement a zero-tolerance HR policy for racism. Racist behaviour is never ok
12) Develop a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) to advance reconciliation in your workplace

We still have a long way to go to achieve equality between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians when it comes to issues like life expectancy, housing, justice and economic development. The challenges facing Indigenous communities in the workplace and beyond are real, and only by speaking up can we create positive change. NAIDOC Week is your opportunity to educate, inspire and implement sustainable actions that will endure well beyond the officially designated week.

As Nobel Peace Prize recipient Malala Yousafzai said, “There’s a moment where you have to choose whether to be silent or stand up.” This is yours.

How are you going to ‘Get Up! Stand up! Show Up!’?

_____________________

With NAIDOC Week kicking off on July 3, now is the time to lock in an Indigenous motivational speaker to speak at your NAIDOC Week event. We have a number of wonderful speakers available, each with powerful stories that will bring to life the real challenges faced by Indigenous communities. If you’d like an introduction to Cathy FreemanShelley Ware, Nova Peris, Steph Tisdell, Narelda Jacobs or Isaiah Dawe, simply get in touch with us for a chat. 

 

5 Ways to Celebrate Pride Month… All Year Round


Pride Month is all about equality and inclusion, celebrating the voices, culture, achievements and rights of LGBTQ+ communities around the world. Every June, social media is awash with rainbow-coloured logo’s, brands hyping their support, proudly publishing Pride-related content and enjoying a little glitter-covered glory. Great! But if you’re looking for ways to genuinely support the fight for Pride and contribute real value to the LGBTQ+ community, read on… 

First of all, let’s set the scene with a look at where it all began. In the early hours of June 28, 1969, police raided The Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in New York’s West Village. Bar patrons rebelled against the injustice, fighting for their rights in what came to be known as The Stonewall Riots. Widely recognised as the catalyst of the Gay Liberation Movement, the Stonewall uprising is now commemorated every June with Pride Month celebrations around the world.

Why Celebrate Pride Month at Work?

Many of us know intuitively that diversity and inclusion are good for business. Morally it’s a no-brainer, but creating a workplace that’s a mosaic of different identities, experiences, skillsets and perspectives can also have a massive impact on the bottom line.

Diversity Council Australia’s recent Out at Work report showed that employees in organisations which are highly LGBTIQ+ inclusive are at least twice as likely as employees in non-inclusive cultures to achieve, innovate and provide excellent customer service. Likewise, the 2021-22 Inclusion@Work Index showed that workers in inclusive workplaces are 11 times more likely to be highly effective and 10 times more likely to be innovative.

When it comes to the LGBTIQ+ community, recent Gallup research in America revealed that nearly 21% of Generation Z adults (born between 1997 and 2003) and 10.5% of Millennials (born 1981-1996) identify as LGBT. With 75% of the global workforce to be made up of millennials by 2025, that’s a massive proportion of the current and future workforce right there.

And then there’s the small matter of your consumers… the current generation, which includes an increasingly larger proportion of people who identify as LGBTQ+, are a morally conscious bunch – and they’ll hold any business that’s not to account.

So doesn’t it makes perfect sense for global business leaders to embrace the LGBTQ+ community? And embracing the LGBTIQ+ community is what Pride Month is all about. It isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do.

5 Meaningful Ways to Celebrate

1. Send a message from the top
The ‘lavender ceiling’ is to the LGBTQ+ community what the glass ceiling is to women. A lack of visible representation at the top can make it tough for LGBTQ+ employees to see themselves rising up the ranks. If you have people that openly identify as LGBTQ+ in a leadership position, ask them to share their experiences. Ernst & Young has strong LGBTQ+ representation in management and created this video to share their own experiences and show their support for LGBTQ+ staff. How great is that?

2. Host an Inclusion Workshop
A hands-on Inclusion Workshop led by an external professional will help you create a safe and inclusive workplace for LGBTQ+ employees. These workshops can help teams understand the experience of people with diverse genders and/or sexualities, provide useful tips and best practice strategies to ensure LGBTQ+ inclusion, cover correct gender identity terms and how to manage pronouns to improve inclusivity.

3. Help them understand
A professional LGBTQ+ motivational speaker can have a huge impact on employee understanding and empathy. Take Ian Roberts for example – having played in 5 State of Origin series for NSW and over a dozen test matches for Australia, Ian was one of the best front rowers in the game. He was also the first openly gay man in rugby league, having come out to the public at the height of his career in 1994. While Ian received thousands of letters of support, he also received extensive hate mail – but there’s no doubt that his coming out saved the lives of many kids from suicide. After retiring from professional sport in 1998, Ian moved to the US to pursue an acting career and has since had more than 40 acting roles to his credit, working with the likes of Cate Blanchett, Kevin Spacey and Hugo Weaving.

Ian shares his personal journey to help motivate others to be their best whilst facing their fears, and his powerful story – along with his unique ability to connect with and inspire others – leaves an indelible mark on everyone who hears it. Other LGBTQ+ motivational speakers who also have an important story to tell include Ian Thorpe, Audrey Mason-Hyde, and JJ Ferrari. Let us know if you’d like an introduction!

4. Evaluate your discrimination & diversity policies
The perfect way to celebrate Pride Month is by taking a good long look at your year-round work policies. Diversity Council Australia’s Out at Work report showed that while 74% of LGBTIQ+ respondents said it was important to be able to be out at work, only 32% actually were. Why is that? Could your company do better at being inclusive when it comes to policies, standards or even bathroom regulations?

Once you’ve hosted your Inclusion Workshop, you’ll be able to identify pretty quickly where your areas of weakness are. If you’re unsure where to start, here are some questions to kick you off:
– Do you have a clear mission statement that prioritises fair treatment and support of the LGBTQ+ community?
– Do you have a zero-tolerance anti-discrimination policy with clear consequences for those that don’t comply?
– Do you provide equal benefits for all employees regardless of their sexual orientation— including time off for maternity/paternity leave, adoption leave and pay?

 5. Create the right culture
Having an inclusive culture is the absolute end-goal for celebrating Pride, and there are some easy ways you can ramp up your efforts:
– Link inclusion to your company values and use posters, emails and videos to promote inclusive behaviours and drive the message home internally.
– Celebrate out loud when you see people adopting inclusive behaviours – you might want to share the Diversity Council Australia’s Words at Work guide as a start.
– Facilitate open discussions so that employees at all levels feel encouraged and comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions.

Pride Month is a fantastic time to acknowledge the struggles of LGBTQ+ communities worldwide and celebrate diversity and inclusion in your own workplace. But jumping on the bandwagon because, well… it’s June… and you like rainbows… is not cool. Neither is radio silence for the other 11 months of the year. Taking actionable steps to combat LGBTQ+ issues and promote inclusion should be a year-round priority – as the marvellous J.K. Rowling says, “If Harry Potter taught us anything, it’s that no one should live in a closet”.

_____________________

With Pride Month coming up in June, now is the time to lock in a LGBTQ+ motivational speaker to speak to your team. Our wonderful LGBTQ+ trailblazers include Ian Roberts, Audrey Mason-Hyde, Ian Thorpe and JJ Ferrari – all have captivating stories to tell, and will inspire real understanding and change in your team. If you’d like us to introduce you, simply get in touch with us for a chat.  

 

The West’s World-Class Talent: Perth’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers

Top 10 Motivational Speakers Perth

Australia’s largest and sunniest state plays host to a diverse and dramatic landscape, from coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life to vast red desert plains and national parks dotted with pristine beaches. It’s a treasure trove of unique gems… the world’s largest rock formation, bright pink lakes, the largest number of purebred camels in the world (!) and, of course, Quokkas – the happiest animal on earth. Just as impressive (though possibly not as adorable) are the world-class Motivational Speakers that call Perth, WA’s largest city, home.

Whether it’s a legendary Australian hockey coach, one of the AFL’s most influential figures, a former terrorism and war crimes prosecutor or an underwater cave diver, our Perth Motivational Speakers are a cut above. Passionate, captivating and thought-provoking, these 10 master storytellers are guaranteed to make a lasting impression. Let us introduce you…

Perth’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers

1. Rabia Siddique
Rabia SiddiqueRabia Siddique motivational speaker is a criminal and human rights lawyer, a retired British Army officer, a former terrorism and war crimes prosecutor, professional speaker, trainer and best-selling author. She also speaks multiple languages, has run several marathons, undertakes international human rights and community aid work… and manages to raise triplet boys in amongst it all! Rabia has achieved multiple honours, including a commendation from the Queen, for her human rights work in Iraq and her expert views are regularly featured in the global media. She’s also a highly accomplished speaker, last year receiving a standing ovation from an audience of 1700 for her TEDx talk ‘Courage Under Fire’. Rabia is a living example of how each one of us can be a force for positive change in our own lives and those around us, sharing her captivating story of extreme courage to inspire audiences to live with strength, integrity and humanity in the midst of their own experiences. Read more about Rabia here.

2. Dr Craig Challen OAM
Craig Challen motivational speakerWhen 12 boys from a Thai soccer team became dangerously trapped in a flooded cave in 2018, Dr. Craig Challen, one of Australia’s leading underwater cave and shipwreck divers, was asked to join the international rescue mission to save them. Craig worked 14-16 hour days alongside his diving partner, fellow Australian Dr Richard Harris, to help the boys to safety in a story that gripped the world (and has since been immortalised in a Hollywood movie). Craig was awarded a Star of Courage as well as the Order of Australia for service to the international community for his unwavering and selfless bravery during the successful rescue. In 2019, Craig and his diving partner were also named as the first dual Australians of the Year for their heroic efforts during the rescue mission. Craig tells his story with infectious positivity and enthusiasm, inspiring those around him to take advantage of life’s opportunities and to be ready when they arise. Read more about Craig here.

3. Ric Charlesworth
Ric Charlesworth motivational speakerIf there’s anyone more qualified than Ric Charlesworth to motivate a group to achieve their best, we’d be surprised. As former Captain of the Australian Hockey team, the State Hockey Team and the State Cricket Team, Ric (who also happens to be a qualified Doctor) spent 10 years within Federal parliament before retiring and taking on the role of National Coach of the Australian Women’s Hockey team. After 7 years at the helm, Ric took on coaching and high-performance roles with the Australian Institute of Sport, New Zealand Cricket and Indian Hockey before being appointed Coach of the Australian National Men’s team in 2008. When they won the World Cup in 2014, Ric retired to concentrate on consulting, and now shares his vast wealth of knowledge as a motivational speaker. His engaging presentations, filled with unique insight, considered advice and captivating anecdotes, are delivered with humour and enthusiasm. Guaranteed to entertain and inspire any audience, Ric is hands-down one of our most popular speakers. Read more about Ric here.

4. Dr Nikki Stamp
Dr Nikki Stamp motivational speakerAs a highly accomplished cardiothoracic surgeon and author of three health books, Dr Nikki Stamp is at the top of her game. A passionate advocate for women’s heart health, Nikki writes regularly for publications including The Huffington Post, The Washington Post, Mamamia and The Guardian, and has appeared on the ‘Today Show’, ‘The Daily Edition’, ‘BBC World News’, ‘Conversations with Richard Fiedler’ and ‘BBC Women’s Hour’ as well as hosting ABC’s flagship science show ‘Catalyst’. Nikki is committed to raising awareness of women’s heart disease, currently the number one killer of Australian women, and is also a strong campaigner when it comes to helping women achieve in domains traditionally dominated by men. A sought-after speaker and mentor, Nikki shares the challenges she’s faced as a woman in her field, including bullying, unhealthy workplace cultures and harassment, inspiring those around her to battle through adversity to achieve their goals. Read more about Nikki here.

5. Brant Garvey
Brant GarveyBorn without his knee and lower right limb, Brant Garvey has never let anything slow him down or stand in the way of achieving his dreams. He’s a champion athlete, having competed in an array of sports including swimming, wheelchair basketball and para-triathlons, and was the first Australian above-knee amputee to complete an Ironman Triathlon. He was also a member of the Australian para-triathlon team at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Paralympics and has completed the Rottnest Channel Swim, a 19.7km open water swim, five times to date. Brant delivers a powerful presentation to audiences, speaking openly about his life experiences and challenges to help others develop their own toolkit so they can face their fears, overcome obstacles and chase their big dreams too. Read more about Brant here.

6. Jenn Morris
jenn morrisDescribed as ‘the best player in the world and also the most resilient’ by legendary hockey coach Ric Charlesworth, dual Olympic gold medallist Jenn Morris captained one of the most successful women’s hockey teams in history. Sidelined for more than 2 years with injury, Jenn returned to take her last bow at the Sydney Olympics, scoring the winning goal in the final to cap off an astonishing decade at the highest level. After her retirement from sport, Jenn worked as Director of the Consulting Division at Deloitte, and has since taken on a number of Board, Chairwoman and Non-Executive Director roles at various organisations. Jenn shares her incredible experience both on and off the hockey pitch with audiences Australia-wide, focusing on overcoming adversity, teamwork and training. Speaking with passion and honesty, Jenn inspires others to embrace the core values of a champion. Read more about Jenn here.

7. Rob Redenbach
rob redenbachWhether working with the FBI, managing risk in the Middle East or safeguarding Nelson Mandela, reducing conflict has always been the backbone of Rob Redenbach’s story. From a post-graduate Law degree to a Master of Arts in Terrorism, Safety and Security, Rob’s credentials and unique real-life experience make him a respected expert in his field. His magnetic personality and master storytelling ability also make him a favourite security spokesperson in the media – you may recognise him from his regular appearances on Sunrise! Blending humour and hard facts, Rob’s interactive live presentations provide leaders of all levels with powerful insights for successfully reducing conflict and building trust – essential skills for success in any field. Read more about Rob here.

8. Michelle Cowan
Michelle CowanAt 21, Michelle Cowan became the first woman to coach professional AFL football when she was appointed Assistant Coach of West Perth Football Club in the WAFL. Now with more than 18 years experience coaching in the WAFL, AFL and AFLW, along with an AFL Football Woman of the Year award, Michelle is arguably one of the most influential figures in the football world and in the development of the game itself. Michelle’s trailblazing achievements have helped break down traditional gender stereotypes and the multitude of barriers faced by women both in sport and business. She tells her empowering story with passion and enthusiasm, connecting with and inspiring audiences at all levels to forge their own path. Read more about Michelle here.

9. Christina Matthews
Christina MatthewsIn the famously male-dominated sport of cricket, Christina Matthews – CEO of the Western Australian Cricket Association – is a game-changer in every sense. One of only three women in the world to hold the position of CEO of a first-class cricket association, Christina is also Australia’s most capped female Test player, and holds the record for the most dismissals by an Australian wicket-keeper. She has had a distinguished international playing career and has inspired players of all abilities and genders, while actively helping transform the sport’s male domination. Her determination to create a gender-equal sport has seen female cricket participation numbers increase 550% across WA and ensured that the WACA has equal gender representation in leadership positions. As a speaker, Christina combines her in-depth knowledge and experience in sport with her vast business expertise, with particular focus on leadership, diversity, change management, collaboration and communication. Read more about Christina here.

10. Justin Langer
Australian cricket legend and Hall of Famer, Justin Langer, retired from test cricket in 2007 with an impressive career as a top-order batsman, amassing 7,696 runs and 23 centuries in 105 test matches. His record-breaking opening partnership with Matthew Hayden, which netted six remarkable double century stands, played a crucial role in returning the Ashes to Australia in 2006/07. After surpassing Sir Donald Bradman as Australia’s most prolific batsman in first-class cricket, Langer went on to coach, eventually taking the reigns as head coach of the Australian cricket team. Under his guidance, they won the Ashes, the T20 World Cup for the first time and were ranked number in international cricket. Justin has since authored 6 successful books and is involved with many charitable causes, receiving a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his services to Australian cricket and the community. Read more about Justin here.


With so much world-class talent out West, our task of selecting the 10 best Motivational Speakers was supremely difficult! If you have a brief for us we’d be happy to provide you with a curated list specific to your needs… get in touch with us for a chat to get the ball rolling!

Stars Shine in the Sunshine State: Queensland’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers.

With pristine beaches, lush rainforests, tropical islands, famous surf breaks and a half decent Rugby League team, Queensland is a magnet for holidaymakers far and wide. It’s also the main domain for many, with its tempting lure of laid-back lifestyle and 260+ days of sunshine every year a tough one to resist. But the sun isn’t the only thing shining in the Sunshine State – Queensland’s star-studded line-up of Motivational Speakers are generating some serious sparkle too!

From world-famous ballet dancer Li Cunxin to Olympic champion Libby Trickett and inspirational burns survivor Turia Pitt, these Top 10 Motivational Speakers all call Queensland home – and we’d love to introduce you.

Queensland’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers

ariarne titmus1. Ariarne Titmus
Pitted against American rival Katie Ledecky in the 400m freestyle final at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Ariarne Titmus’ gold-medal winning effort was arguably one of the greatest Olympic races of all time. Her Olympic medal haul, which also included gold in the 200m freestyle, silver in the 800-metre freestyle and bronze in the 4×200 metres women’s freestyle relay, cemented Ariarne’s place in Australian swimming history. Passionate about health and wellness, Ariarne is a wonderful role model for future generations, as well as a captivating and insightful speaker who connects beautifully with audiences of all ages. Read more about Ariarne here.

Turia Pitt2. Turia Pitt
When model and fitness enthusiast Turia Pitt set off on a 100km ultra-marathon in the Kimberley region in 2011, she couldn’t have imagined the tragic course her life was about to take. Caught in a grassfire, Turia suffered horrific burns to 65% of her body, and spent two months in a coma with grim odds of survival. During the next two years, Turia underwent more than 200 surgeries and had seven fingers amputated. Despite a heavy rehabilitation schedule, her inspiring courage has since seen her complete an Ironman triathlon, compete in a 20km swimming race, cycle from Sydney to Uluru and walk the Great Wall of China. She now dedicates much of her time to humanitarian causes and had raised over $200,000 for Interplast, a charity that provides reconstructive surgery to people in developing countries. Turia’s story about overcoming adversity will keep you enthralled, and her powerful message will give you a new perspective on life. Read more about Turia here.

Li Cunxin3. Li Cunxin
If you haven’t read or watched Li Cunxin’s best-selling autobiographical work, Mao’s Last Dancer, you’re one of the few. Published and sold in over 20 countries and subsequently turned into a Hollywood feature film, Mao’s Last Dancer recounts the perseverance, vision, courage, hard work, integrity and love that drove Li from poverty-stricken China to become one of the best dancers in the world. From the Beijing Dance Academy during Mao’s regime to principal dancer with the Australian Ballet, Li’s journey is a unique tale of resilience and determination, and his presentations are a touching and empowering experience that will be long cherished. Read more about Li here.

Libby Trickett4. Libby Trickett
With a swimming career that included gold medals at 3 consecutive Olympic Games, 8 world records, 15 world titles and 5 Commonwealth Games gold medals, there’s little doubt why Libby Trickett was dubbed ‘Australia’s Golden Girl’ of swimming. Libby’s achievements were recognised with an Order of Australia medal (OAM) for her contribution to swimming, and she was also inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame. The humble superstar’s trademark million-watt smile hid a brave battle with anxiety and depression though – it was the toughest battle of her life, and taught her the importance of good mental health. Libby is now a BeyondBlue Ambassador and Queensland’s Mental Health Ambassador, sharing her story with passion and honesty, providing a rare insight into her life as one of our greatest ever swimmers and her personal struggles to overcome mental health challenges. Read more about Libby here.

Anthony Laye5. Anthony Laye
If you’re looking to break up the monotony of meetings and conferences then let Anthony Laye, celebrity Mentalist and TV regular, take your team on an interactive and mind-blowing adventure that will leave them wondering – how the hell did he do that?! Dynamic and engaging, Anthony reveals powerful business communication and influence tools to help team members develop as leaders, influencers and communicators. Combined with some gobsmacking mind tricks that will leave the audience spellbound with wonder, magic and laughter, this is the ultimate team-bolstering experience! Read more about Anthony here.

Karni Liddell 6. Karni Liddell 
A progressive and debilitating muscle-wasting disease meant that Karni Liddell wasn’t expected to live past her teenage years. But her unique attitude to life, and her will to prove that her body could do what she was told it couldn’t, saw her become a Paralympic medallist, successful businesswoman, writer, counsellor and disability champion. She encourages others to think differently about how their choices shape their health, success and attitude too – regardless of their life circumstances. Karni is the only woman in Australia with a disability to feature on the cover of Inside Sport Magazine and has proudly raised over $1million dollars for various charities. Read more about Karni here.

Elaine Jobson 7. Elaine Jobson 
From managing Fitness First’s sales across Europe and leading their new female brand initiative, to COO of Virgin Active in South Africa, to a pivotal role in the global expansion of Jetts Australia, Elaine Jobson has made a significant impact on the global fitness industry over the last 25 years. She’s particularly passionate about corporate culture, having led one of the most profound cultural changes in the fitness industry that resulted in Virgin Active winning the Deloitte Best Place to Work Award in South Africa. The current CEO of Jetts Australia and International was awarded ‘2023 Fit Summit Executive of the Year’ and the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network’s ‘Outstanding Business Woman of the Year’ in recognition of her efforts. Read more about Elaine here.

Steven Bradbury8. Steven Bradbury
One of the world’s most colourful Olympic Champions, Steven Bradbury created history when he won the Southern Hemisphere’s first ever Winter Olympic gold medal in 2002. He also won fans the world over for the honesty and humility he showed after his unexpected speed skating win. Steve overcame serious injury in his journey to the top, including a race accident that required 111 stitches and a training mishap in 2000 that resulted in a broken neck. With perseverance and hard work, that same neck was proudly adorned with an Olympic gold medal just 18 months later. Steve received ‘The Don Award’ for Australia’s best sporting performance in 2002, and in 2007 was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his services to Australian Sport. Having presented at over 650 conference and events in 14 countries over the last 10 years, Steve is one of Australia’s most in-demand and entertaining motivational speakers. Read more about Steve here.

Orange Sky Laundry9. Orange Sky Laundry
Best friends Nicholas Marchesi and Lucas Patchett had a vision. They wanted to dedicate their lives to treating others the way they liked to be treated themselves, restoring respect and health standards to those less fortunate. And so Orange Sky Laundry was born. Their revolutionary idea was to remodel an old van into a free mobile laundry, delivering a washing service to the homeless, and providing somewhere safe for people to come and have a chat. They now have 9 laundry vans, each fitted with two commercial washing machines and two dryers, servicing the Sunshine Coast, South East Melbourne, Perth, Gold Coast, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Canberra. They’ve recently added shower vans to the Orange Sky fleet too. If you’re looking for an incredible success story with a conscience, you can’t go past Orange Sky! Read more about Orange Sky Laundry here.

McQuilty 'Coco' Quirke10. McQuilty (Coco) Quirke
With an 18-year army career covering the war zones of East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan as a medic, soldier and leader, there is no-one better equipped to talk to your team about resilience and overcoming adversity than McQuilty Quirke. Having courageously battled post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after the horrors of war in Iraq, Coco suffered multiple life-threatening injuries – including two shattered vertebrae, broken bones in every limb and a traumatic brain injury – when an improvised explosive device detonated under his vehicle in Afghanistan. The powerful lessons he learned on his journey to recovery provide the foundation for his captivating presentations. Read more about McQuilty here.

____________________ 

With so many stars shining in the Sunshine State, our task of picking the Top 10 was a difficult one! If you have a brief for us we’d be happy to provide you with a curated list of Motivational Speakers specific to your needs… get in touch with us for a chat to get the ball rolling!

10 of the Best: Sydney’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers

Sydney's Top 10 Motivational Speakers

Famed for its Baywatch-worthy beaches and iconic landmarks like the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, Sydney is a mecca for tourists worldwide. With an eclectic, energetic vibe and a year-round calendar of world-class events and festivals, Australia’s largest city is also home to some of the world’s most captivating Motivational Speakers. We’d love to introduce you to 10 of the best.

Whether you’re looking for a world-renowned creative genius to inspire new thinking, a leader for social change to empower and encourage action or a true survivor to reframe your definition of determination and resilience, our Sydney Motivational Speakers have you covered. Thought-provoking, dynamic and passionate, these 10 master storytellers will create an impression that lasts well beyond the last curtain call.

Sydney’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers

1. Todd Sampson
If you’ve ever tuned in to ABC’s hit TV show The Gruen Transfer, you’ll recognise Todd Sampson’s artfully dishevelled form dissecting the global advertising industry’s hits and misses. Having led some of the most successful creative agencies in the world (even taking home the coveted Cannes Titanium Lion for Creative Campaign of the Year), Todd is a well-known creative genius. His Earth Hour initiative is officially the biggest environmental movement in history, and is widely recognised as one the best ideas in the world. It’s little wonder that his presentations, exploring creativity, idea generation, leadership, culture change, problem solving, bravery and adventure are always a huge hit. Read more about Todd here.

2. Kurt Fearnley AO
Kurt FearnleyBeing born without the lower part of his spinal cord didn’t stop Kurt Fearnley from living his dream of travelling or playing professional sport. In fact, the ‘Marathon Man’ of wheelchair sports became a world-beater, winning five World Championship titles and representing Australia at 3 Paralympics, winning 2 silver and 2 gold medals in the Marathon. But it’s off the track that Kurt sets himself apart, committing himself to helping people with disabilities or those from disadvantaged backgrounds. As well as earning Australian of the Year honours, Kurt was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia for his service to people with a disability and for his fundraising efforts for Indigenous athletes and charitable organisations. A champion in every sense, Kurt’s story is truly inspirational. Read more about Kurt here.

3. Jana Pittman
jana pittmannYou may recognise Jana Pittman from her days as two-time Athletics World Champion and four-time Commonwealth Champion… or maybe you remember when she swapped the track for the ice, joining the Australian Women’s bobsleigh team and becoming the first women to represent Australia in both Summer and Winter Olympic games. Or perhaps you simply know her as the last woman left standing on the recent series of SAS Australia, where she won hearts with her honesty, bravery, integrity and sheer grit. Jana’s story is a roller coaster of triumph, defeat, failure and success as she transitioned from world-class athlete to doctor, author, professional speaker and mother of 6. She will take you on a journey through the peaks and troughs that shaped her professionally and personally, conquering hurdles with inspiring resilience and passion. Read more about Jana here.

4. Sophie Delezio
sophie delezioSophie Delezio is a survivor. Critically injured in a car crash at the age of two, Sophie sustained burns to 85% of her body, lost both her legs below the knee, as well as her right hand and ear. Two and a half years later she was hit by a car and suffered multiple fractures and a brain injury. Her determination to embrace every opportunity and live life to the full in the years since has endeared her to a global community of followers, while her sense of fun and adventure is characteristic of her overall approach to life. With a wisdom well beyond her years, Sophie shares her journey with honesty and integrity – a true lesson in resilience and the power of positivity. Read more about Sophie here.

5. Anyier Yuol
anyier youleBorn in a Kenyan refugee camp before losing her parents and moving to Australia at the age of 10, Anyier Yuol knows exactly what it’s like to fight to be heard. Passionate about improving the representation of minority groups in Australia through the sport, beauty and fashion industries, Anyier works closely with government agencies, schools, businesses and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) in Geneva. She also founded Anyier Model Management, a modelling agency promoting talent that better represents diversity in fashion and beauty. A strong advocate for women’s and girls’ rights, refugee and gender equality, Anyier is undoubtedly one of the world’s leaders in the area of social change, and shares her story to empower and encourage others. Energetic, warm and charismatic, Anyier engages with audiences of diverse backgrounds, delivering authentic and thought-provoking presentations that captivate and inspire those around her. Read more about Anyier here.

6. Madison de Rozario
madison de rozariMadison de Rozario is widely regarded as one of the greatest Australian athletes of all time. As the first Australian to win the elite women’s wheelchair race at the London Marathon, Madison also collected a hat-trick of gold medals, including a world record, at the World Para-athletics Grand Prix in Switzerland. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, Madison became a Paralympic champion when she won the first ever Paralympic gold medal for Australian Athletics in the women’s 800m T53. She topped off her campaign with a stunning win in the Marathon T54 on the final day of the Games. Madison talks about the importance of being proactive with mental health and learning to reframe negative thoughts into positive ones, and is living proof that the results can be staggering. Read more about Madison here.

7. Adam Goodes
adam goodesAdam Goodes holds an elite place in AFL history as a dual Brownlow Medallist, dual premiership player, four-time All-Australian, member of the Indigenous Team of the Century and Australian representative in the International Rules Series. Immensely proud of his Indigenous heritage, Adam is actively involved with Indigenous sport and community programs, and established The GO Foundation with fellow indigenous AFL Star Michael O’Loughlin to enable a brighter future for Indigenous Australians. In 2014, Adam was named Australian of the Year in recognition of his important work with indigenous sport and the community, as well as his advocacy in the fight against racism. He shares his story with integrity and pride, and provides a rare and honest insight into the ongoing battle for Indigenous rights. Read more about Adam here.

8. Anh Do
anh doAfter a harrowing journey to Australia crammed into a nine-metre fishing boat with his family and 40 other Vietnamese refugees, Anh Do settled in Sydney and studied business law before pivoting to a successful comedy career. Anh now entertains in a variety of film, TV and hosting roles, including ‘Rove, ‘Thank God You’re Here’ and ‘Dancing with the Stars, as well as popular ABC TV show ‘Anh’s Brush with Fame, where he interviews and paints portraits of Australian personalities. Anh has also written many children books, including ‘WeirDo and ‘Ninja Kid, while his memoir, ‘The Happiest Refugee, took home Australian Book of the Year and Biography of the Year honours. Read more about Anh here.

9. Sam Bloom
sam bloomWhen Sam Bloom suffered a near-fatal accident in Thailand in 2013, a shattered spine amongst her life-threatening injuries, she was devastated by her prognosis. But after her family took in an injured baby magpie, who her sons affectionately named Penguin, Sam found the inspiration to reconnect with her love of sport. Her journey to becoming three-time World Para Surfing champion and Surfing Australia Female Para Surfer of the Year was documented by her photographer husband Cameron Bloom. Cameron’s captivating photographs showed the tender bond between Sam and Penguin, inspiring a best-selling book and the Box Office hit film, ‘Penguin Bloom’, starring Naomi Watts. Read more about Sam here. 

10. Nedd Brockman
nedd brockmanA personal challenge became a social phenomenon when Nedd Brockman set out to complete the 4,000km journey from Perth to Bondi… on foot. He became the fastest Australian, and second fastest globally, over the distance – completing the feat in just over 46 days, averaging a whopping 80km daily. Nedd documented his progress on Instagram, inspiring thousands and winning the hearts of a nation in the process – from truckies and farmers to roadside workers and kids doing bake stalls, everyone cheered Nedd on. Messages of support from people including the Prime Minister, Jimmy Barnes, Ash Barty and Hollywood actor Lily James helped Nedd raise a staggering $2.5 million for homeless charity Mobilise. Read more about Nedd here.

_____________________

With so much home-grown talent in Sydney, our task of selecting the Top 10 was a difficult one! If you have a brief for us we’d be happy to provide you with a curated list of Motivational Speakers specific to your needs…  get in touch with us for a chat to get the ball rolling!

Meet Melbourne’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers

It takes more than a knack for public speaking to earn the title of Motivational Speaker. You know when you meet a true one – that moment someone captures your attention so powerfully and passionately, with a presence so commanding, so captivating, that you’re engrossed in every single word. You’re inspired to act. You feel like you have unlimited potential and the capability to make anything happen. Their impact is enormous, and their unique ability to make a lasting impression sets them apart from the pack. So how can you find one of these truly inspiring Motivational Speakers in Melbourne? We’re here to help!

Besides being one of the most liveable cities on earth, Melbourne is lauded as the ‘sporting capital of the world’ and famed for its rich cultural diversity, its vibrant arts scene and its cosmopolitan social life. It’s no wonder then that it’s also home to some of the world’s best Motivational Speakers.

Whether you’re looking for a global sporting hero to inject some team spirit, a Military Commando to share his learnings on leadership and performance or advice on maintaining unrelenting focus from one of the world’s toughest endurance athletes, Melbourne’s Motivational Speakers are world-class.

Melbourne’s Top 10 Motivational Speakers

1. Dr. Jessica Gallagher
Jess Gallagher motivational speaker
Jessica Gallagher was the first Australian athlete – Olympic or Paralympic – to medal at both a Summer and Winter Olympic Games. As a sight-impaired high-performance athlete in the dangerous world of Alpine Skiing, Jess shares the practical ways she shaped her risk appetite and turned fear into a must-have component of her mindset, skill and performance. She gives audiences tips and tools to create positive and sustainable habits to live their best life, and she does it with rare style. Read more about Jess here.

2. Dylan Alcott OAM
Dylan Alcott OAM motivational speaker
When Dylan Alcott retired from tennis after the 2022 Australian Open, he did so with 15 grand slam singles titles, eight grand slam doubles titles, four Paralympic gold and two silver medals to his name. He was also the first male in history, of any ability, to claim the illustrious Golden Slam. But it’s his off-field efforts to alter the way people with disabilities are perceived in the wider community that really sets this Aussie legend apart, and that helped earn him the 2022 Australian of the Year award. With a unique and incredibly moving story to tell, Dylan inspires audiences worldwide to be the best versions of themselves. Read more about Dylan here.

3. Tiffany Hall
Tiffany Halltiff hall motivational speaker is Australia’s most famous ninja. Celebrity trainer, founder of lifestyle program TIFFXO.com, author, podcaster, TV regular, martial arts expert and mum, Tiff has many titles tucked under her 6th Dan Taekwondo black belt. As a respected and passionate health and wellness authority, Tiff is a wonderful role model for audiences of all ages. She’s also a dynamic speaker, intent on helping others shine, galvanising them into action to become happy, healthy and confident. Read more about Tiffany here.

4. Cathy Freeman OAM
cathy freeman motivational speakerWho can forget that iconic moment at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, when Cathy Freeman OAM won gold in the 400m and proudly waved both the Australian and Aboriginal flags on her victory lap? As the first Indigenous Australian to win a gold medal and the first Australian woman to run under 50 seconds, Cathy’s achievements have been recognised with an Australian of the Year title and awards including World Sportswoman of the Year. One of Australia’s most admired and respected athletes, Cathy is a national treasure recognised for her modesty, free spirit and passion for family and country – the Cathy Freeman Foundation, which she established in 2007, has so far helped over 1600 indigenous children in remote communities receive an education. Her passion and conviction are unparalleled, and her story will motivate and inspire. Read more about Cathy here.

5. Samantha Gash
samantha gashIf Samantha Gash looked remarkably comfortable in the uncomfortable surrounds of the latest season of Survivor Australia, it’s because she’s no stranger to tough conditions. She was the first woman, and the youngest person at the time, to complete the Four Deserts Grand Slam – one of the world’s toughest endurance competitions that spans 1000kms across the hottest, coldest, driest and windiest deserts on earth. Combining that grit and focus with her experience working for the largest international law firm in the world, Samantha now uses running as a vehicle for social change. Using authentic storytelling and dramatic documentary footage to share her journey, Samantha teaches teams how to manage industry disruption and how to become comfortable in discomfort. Read more about Samantha here.

6. Mark (Squiz) Squirrell OAM
mark squirrellFrom the world’s most brutal war zones to the summit of Mt Everest, Mark Squirrell’s journey from military commando to International Aid Worker is equal amounts inspiring and enthralling. His thrilling recount of his career, and the knowledge he shares about leadership, teamwork and communication, is priceless for leaders and aspiring leaders alike. Squiz’s use of authentic footage and Virtual Reality goggles in his keynotes, workshops and team building activities make his presentations a truly unforgettable experience. Read more about Mark here.

7. Rachael Robertson
rachael robertsonBattling extreme and hostile conditions to lead a team of eighteen strangers in Antarctica for twelve months is an excellent way to develop advanced leadership skills. If you don’t have the time or the means though, let Rachael Robertson share her remarkable journey to building a resilient and respectful team in a challenging environment. You could just read the book she wrote about her experience, ‘Leading on the Edge’, but then you’d miss out on the full power of her captivating and humour-filled presentation, full of unique insights that will fire up your team to face challenges head-on and take the next step in their leadership journey. Read more about Rachael here.

8. Lisa McInnes-Smith
Lisa McInnes-SmithThrough her study and practice in Sport Psychology, Lisa McInnes-Smith has developed unique concepts around peak personal performance, passionately inspiring people to elevate their performance with simple, practical steps. She’s presented to more than 2 million people across 26 countries, authored seven best-selling books and is the first person outside North America to be inducted into the international Speaker Hall of Fame. Lisa’s uplifting and thoroughly entertaining presenting style can inspire even the most uninspired team to greatness. Read more about Lisa here.

9. Debbie Lee
debbie leeDebbie Lee is a pioneer of women’s football with more than 30 years’ experience at elite and community level. She has worked tirelessly to improve the representation and participation of women in the AFL and was instrumental in establishing the AFLW. Currently National Women and Girl’s Action Plan Lead at the AFL, Debbie’s previous roles include General Manager of Women’s Football at the Western Bulldogs and Melbourne Football Clubs. She also had a distinguished 302game playing career, representing Victoria 16 times (6 as captain), was a 6-time All Australian, 5-time Helen Lambert Medallist (equivalent to Brownlow) and 2-time premiership player. Debbie is also an AFL Life Member, and the first woman to be inducted into the AFL’s Hall of Fame. Read more about Debbie here. 

10. Dr. Louise Mahler
louise mahlerDr. Louise Mahler is the leading authority on the psychology of face-to-face engagement. She combines years of professional performance on the European opera stage with an award-winning PhD in Business to teach people the skills to ‘be heard’ in hostile environments. As a Master Practitioner in Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Louise coaches her audiences on the mind-body-voice connection she calls Vocal Intelligence. When she takes to the stage, her audience is treated to a transformative, candid and interactive presentation, filled with large doses of humour, reflection and passion, leaving them energised to achieve things they never thought they would. Read more about Louise here.

_____________________

With so much Melbourne talent on offer, it was difficult to limit our list to the Top 10, so if you have a brief for us we’d be happy to provide you with a curated list of Motivational Speakers specific to your needs. Get in touch with us for a chat to get the ball rolling!

Your Essential Productivity Checklist for Managing Hybrid Work Like a Pro

Essential Productivity Checklist for Managing Hybrid Work Like a Pro

“You don’t get paid for the hour, you get paid for the value you bring to the hour.” Jim Rohn

Though the idea of 9-5, Monday-Friday seems destined to be relegated to the rear-view mirror, there’s no doubt that the post-pandemic office recall has begun. Workers are dusting off their office finery, topping up their train cards and preparing once again for peak hour pandemonium. But don’t pack away the Ugg boots just yet. Thanks to the success of the covid remote work mandate, and much to the delight of many, it looks like hybrid workplaces are the way of the future. To help you manage the transition like a pro, we’ve got your essential productivity checklist covered – follow this, and you can have your cake and eat it too. Whenever and wherever you like!

Results of the world’s largest work from home experiment, otherwise known as Covid-19, showed that flexible work arrangements can be a resounding success.

Recent research conducted by Deloitte Access Economics found that businesses that have adopted hybrid work have 6 per cent higher income, are 22 per cent more likely to see higher productivity and are 28 per cent more likely to be innovative than those without hybrid work policies. They also show improved customer service and more engaged employees. That’s excellent news for businesses, because the fact is, employees have had a taste of remote work and they’re keen for more.

The Australian Government’s WGEA study found that an astounding 92% of employees want access to some form of flexible work arrangement as covid restrictions ease. In fact, the global EY 2021 Work Reimagined Employee Survey reports that 54 per cent of employees would actually consider leaving their job if they’re not afforded some flexibility post-pandemic.

Thankfully, it seems the majority of businesses are onboard the hybrid bandwagon, with nearly four in five employers surveyed in the WGEA study stating that they now have a formal flexible work policy or strategy in place. Michael McQueen, trend forecaster and best-selling author, believes that this shift to flexible workforces will see offices increasingly being used for specific purposes such as team building, collaboration and key meetings, and home offices being used for individual, focused work.

While the hybrid work model is still an evolving phenomenon, productivity seems to be the key to success. The checklist below will help you transition to your new work mode, setting you on the right path to achieving that holy grail of work-life balance…

Your Hybrid Work Productivity Checklist:

1) Tech up: Your employer should ensure you have the digital tools, resources and training you need to succeed in a hybrid work environment. Zoom, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Hangouts, Asana, SharePoint… they’re prime productivity boosters, and they’ll help smooth the transition between work and home. And don’t forget to sync and save as much as you can to the Cloud so that you (and your workmates) have access to the documents you need no matter where you’re working from. According to Trevor Long, our go-to-guy for technology insights and one of Australia’s leading tech experts, there are plenty of ways tech can help your home office work like a dream – a Mesh Wifi network like Netgear Orbi or Google WiFi, for example, will help provide high-speed internet to every corner of your home… pure gold if your Wifi box is miles from your workspace!

2) Commit to a work schedule: Let your workmates know when you’ll be in the office and schedule collaborative work and face-to-face meetings accordingly. A good place to start is by working out which tasks you’d like to do synchronously (in real-time) – like group brainstorming, and which you’re good to do asynchronously – think more focused, independent tasks.

3) Timing is everything:
A hybrid work schedule allows you the flexibility to schedule the tasks that require the most focus, creativity and brainpower for when you’re most alert and energetic. Productivity coach and Time Management expert Donna McGeorge believes we’re at our most productive and creative when we structure our day around our natural internal rhythms and cycles. Our body clocks are designed for greater mental agility in the morning, so block out a solid 2-hour slot in the morning to tackle your most important tasks.

4) Work on your connection:
We’re not talking about NBN (though obviously that’s pretty handy). Remote work, even if it’s super productive, can be fairly isolating. Building meaningful connections with your workmates enables greater communication, and – importantly – makes work a more enjoyable experience. Take the time to catch up face to face when you’re in the office, and stay in touch with your team online when you’re at home. As Mark Sanborn says, “In teamwork, silence isn’t golden, it’s deadly.”

5) Mirror your workspace:
Replicating your office workspace at home, in terms of organisation and ergonomics, will help get you in the right frame of mind. If you your inbox is to the left of your screen in the office and your phone to the right, set up your home desk like that too. Consistency helps focus your brain power on the right tasks.

6) Double up where you can:
Invest in two of everything where possible so you don’t need to lug it all around. Laptop charger, mouse, keyboard – leave a set in the office if you can, or have a separate work bag that’s office-ready and doesn’t require constant shuffling about. Don’t forget that work gear is tax-deductible if your employer won’t fork out for it.

7) Make the most of the extra time: A recent Productivity Commission report found that full-time workers in Australian major cities used to spend an average of 67 minutes per day commuting. Make the most of that extra time when you’re on a home day! While it’s tempting to have a sleep in & roll around in your pj’s ‘til go-time, don’t. Do something that’ll fuel your health and happiness – exercise, passion project, family time… whatever it is, schedule it in and commit to it. It’ll set you up beautifully for the workday ahead.

8) Don’t get distracted:
While doing some dinner prep and squeezing in an episode of Bridgerton during your lunch break is a definite perk of working from home, try sticking to your work schedule. Close your door, put your headphones on and snooze your notifications to stay on task during scheduled work blocks (try a distraction-blocking app if you don’t have the willpower!).

While this productivity checklist seems deceptively manageable, there’s a huge pay-off if we can nail it and make the transition to hybrid work a smooth one. Not only will we get that aspirational balance we crave on a personal level, but according to Deloitte, a hybrid work future could see Australia’s economy grow by $18 billion over the next decade, and create more than 42,000 extra full-time jobs.

So if it’s good for the economy and it’s good for the people, we’re all for the move to a hybrid workforce. And if it also happens that your laundry basket is clear and you’ve smashed through Season 2, then all power to you!

_____________________

We can introduce you to a number of experts who tackle productivity and other factors critical to hybrid work success, including Donna McGeorge, Michael McQueen, Trevor Long, Andrew May, Chelsea Pottenger, Rob Pyne, Dr Paige Williams and Gihan Perera. All are captivating motivational speakers that can inspire your team to succeed regardless of which location they’re working from. If you’d like to engage any of these speakers, get in touch with us for a chat!