Victorian Small Business Network

About Victorian Small Business Network

Welcome to the Victorian Small Business Network Podcast, your go-to resource for insights, tips, and strategies to help your small business thrive. Each episode features in-depth conversations with local entrepreneurs, industry experts, and business leaders who share their experiences and knowledge on a wide range of topics—from navigating the challenges of running a small business to uncovering opportunities for growth. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, this podcast is designed to provide you with the inspiration and practical advice you need to succeed in today's dynamic business landscape. Tune in and connect with a vibrant community of like-minded professionals committed to supporting and growing small businesses.

Publisher

Victorian Small Business Network (VSBN)

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

4 Sept 2024

Latest episode

28 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   28 Aug 2026

   How to Communicate Complex Ideas Clearly with Marie Alafaci & Alysha Huxley

   Your expertise may be impressive—but can your customers understand it? In this episode of the Victorian Small Business Podcast, Marie Alafaci speaks with Alysha Huxley, science communicator at Scientell, about how to make complex and technical information clear, useful and engaging without losing accuracy. They explore why experts often rely on jargon, why providing more detail doesn’t always build more trust and how plain language can help people understand the value of your work. You’ll learn how to: • Explain complex ideas to non-technical audiences • Simplify information without “dumbing it down” • Replace jargon with clearer, more useful language • Use stories and analogies to improve understanding • Decide what your audience genuinely needs to know • Structure communication around the “who” and “why” • Apply the Scientell COMPASS framework • Choose clarity over cleverness in your marketing This episode is ideal for business owners, scientists, consultants, technical experts, copywriters and marketers who want their ideas to be understood—and acted upon. The Victorian Small Business Podcast helps business owners connect, share and grow through practical insights and genuine conversations. Connect Connect with Marie Alafaci: https://mariealafaci.com.au/Connect with Alysha Huxsley from Scientell: https://www.scientell.com.au/If you found this conversation useful, please like the episode, leave a comment and subscribe for more practical small-business insights.ABOUT THIS PODCASTThe Victorian Small Business Podcast brings together the heart and hustle of entrepreneurship through real stories, practical insights and conversations with business owners and specialists.Whether you’re starting, growing or strengthening your business, VSBN is here to help Victorian business owners connect, share and grow. Learn more about VSBN: https://vsbn.com.au/

2. 

   1 Jun 2026

   Small Business Tax Strategy: Why Your Accountant and Mortgage Broker Should Talk

   Most small business owners do not have a finance problem or a tax problem — they have a disconnect between the two.In this episode of the Victorian Small Business Network Podcast, host Leanne Watson, mortgage and finance planner, sits down with Felicity Belmont from Tax Espresso to unpack how small business tax strategy, lending, cash flow, business structure, and financial planning all work together.If you are a sole trader, company director, entrepreneur, property investor, or growing business owner, this conversation will help you understand why your accountant, mortgage broker, and financial planner should not be working in isolation.Leanne and Felicity discuss:How small business tax strategy can support long-term growthWhen to consider moving from sole trader to company or trust structuresWhy your business structure may impact your borrowing powerHow cash flow and profitability are not always the same thingWhy separate business and personal bank accounts matterHow loan structures can affect tax deductibilityWhy planning before 30 June can create better financial outcomesThe importance of having your finance team in the same conversationWhether you are preparing for end-of-financial-year tax planning, looking to borrow for business growth, reviewing your current loans, or simply trying to get clearer on your numbers, this episode will help you ask better questions and make more confident decisions.Tax, finance, and lending decisions are connected. The earlier you bring the right advisors into the conversation, the easier it becomes to grow your business with clarity, confidence, and fewer costly mistakes.Leanne Watson: https://leannewatson.com.au/Felicity Belmont: https://www.taxespresso.com.au

3. 

   29 Mar 2026

   The Truth About AI for Small Business: Risks, Laws & What You Must Do

   AI is transforming small business faster than ever… but are you exposing your business to serious risks without even knowing it?In this episode of the Victorian Small Business Network podcast, we unpack the real dangers of using AI in your business — from cybersecurity threats and legal pitfalls to data privacy risks and costly mistakes.Joined by legal, cybersecurity, and AI experts, this conversation reveals what most business owners are getting wrong — and how to safely harness AI without putting your business on the line.🔍 In this episode, you’ll learn:- The biggest AI risks small businesses are overlooking- How “oversharing” data can create serious security vulnerabilities- What you MUST check before using any AI tool- The legal traps hidden in AI subscriptions and contracts- Why your team could be your biggest risk (and how to fix it)- The 5-step framework to safely implement AI in your business- How to stay compliant with privacy laws while using AI💡 Whether you're already using AI or just getting started, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and build a smarter, safer AI strategy.🎙️ Featuring:HOST - Sarah Burke (Commercial Lawyer, SLB Legal - https://www.slblegal.com.au/)Daniel Wojcik (Cybersecurity Expert, Codux - https://codux.com.au/)Olivera Tomic (Founder, 8 People – AI Solutions & Training - https://8people.io/)Connect with VSBNInstagram: http://instagram.com/victoriansbnFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriansbnTikTok: http://twitter.com/andreconateLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoriansbnWebsite: https://www.vsbn.com.au

4. 

   23 Feb 2026

   CRITICAL Property Advice: Why Renting Could Make You Richer Than Buying (A Must-Watch for Investors)

   In this episode of the VSBN podcast, host Charl “Chuck” Joubert from Proactive Property Management is joined by special guests Hamish from One Haven Property Group and Jonathan from Mortgage Choice Williamstown. The three industry experts sit down to discuss how their seemingly different businesses collaborate to serve the same client. They delve into their core values, missions, and, most importantly, provide listeners with crucial advice on property investment strategies, current market trends, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you're a first-time home buyer, an experienced investor, or a renter looking to break into the market, this video is packed with valuable insights from people who actively "play the game". Key Topics Discussed: The Investment Journey and Collaboration: Learn about the client journey from referral (95% of One Haven's business is referral based) to acquisition, emphasizing the importance of aligning property purchases with a client's goals. Discussion on how three different businesses can collaborate to serve the same client. Leveraging Equity for Investment: Jonathan explains how utilizing existing home equity can cover deposit, stamp duty, and holding costs for an investment property, meaning the investment often "doesn't really cost them money out of their own pocket". Why You Shouldn't Sell Too Soon: Insights into the long-term benefits of holding onto investment properties, and why holding is crucial for debt reduction and wealth building. The Critical Role of Property Managers: Discussion on how property managers are the "last conversation" but the "ongoing relationship", helping to alleviate defects issues and providing cash flow comfort to prevent owners from selling early. Property Market Trends and Sentiment: An in-depth look at recent market trends, post-COVID growth in states outside of Melbourne, and the impact of interest rate changes on buyer sentiment and property prices. The panelists note that Melbourne is now a highly valued market in Australia. Rent Vesting: Advice for tenants who want to enter the property market. The guests advocate for a shift in mentality: "Rent where you want to live, as long as you've invested your money elsewhere". Advice for Existing Landlords: Discussion on the "loyalty tax" charged by lenders and the need for regular loan and portfolio reviews to ensure optimal interest rates and structure. Beware the Barbecue Talk: A strong warning against taking property advice from unqualified sources, especially family members who rely on "old opinions". Guests: Chuck Joubert - Proactive Property Management - https://proactivpm.com.au/ (https://proactivpm.com.au/) Hamish - One Haven Property Group - https://onehaven.com.au/ (https://onehaven.com.au/) Jonathan - Mortgage Choice Williamstown - https://www.mortgagechoice.com.au/jonathan.lee/ (https://www.mortgagechoice.com.au/jonathan.lee/) Connect with VSBN Instagram:   / victoriansbn   (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbTRoa1hJeXpHMFZ0bUhQUXdPZDlISEh0cXdjZ3xBQ3Jtc0tsSVI1Y090UW5hT2M3dElibTlWMmtSOHc4SWs5ekpvMHppMFg4WDlac3A3VE1JcG9zTGdSNnZvdy15R0w0NGJ2VHFJOVItRVB5WU00dXhuQW95eEdOYmptOEJYbnlvSlZPa09LMzZMSXVlUnJGdjN4VQ&q=http%3A%2F%2Finstagram.com%2Fvictoriansbn&v=0hH_rFRGtuk) Facebook:   / victoriansbn   (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbkNfSGt1bk1lajdacmtkWWZ5QW1YeXowZDFLUXxBQ3Jtc0tudTBwdGs4Ykx3OXJHLTdjZnBfTmN2QTdFaUdWdjBGMUVTRnotd2ZoRG9sbGNnZjJwcmJBQ1ptUHN5dFpPcVJzTEhnMDVZNWVPLWlqS1FwcDhFeU5yejZkWHFhejNfMXRxUmlTTDVZMFp0c2hCMU5hNA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fvictoriansbn&v=0hH_rFRGtuk) TikTok:   / andreconate   (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa3pUN0FZV2pLLXVtZEVrbFNsUWRibUtXd3Y5Z3xBQ3Jtc0ttM2hVN1pXRkx1Zm8wbHRsYXYyQXNhMVRCZ285bFBoMmFpTkhzQVhKZ25iWE9Vb2xEQVMwWXl3QWY4dm8wLUdmWVBuamdwdXdNd0xHTGgyTTJSMko3NlJFTVdCNDVvbnh2eXVoNk9pTG0zeW1FMWw5SQ&q=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fandreconate&v=0hH_rFRGtuk) LinkedIn:   / victoriansbn   (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbWVYSm0wMmFKUXZMSERfSlA0T09OOExsQjd6UXxBQ3Jtc0trcllkUnhiY2QydmE2SG1oNEFveGVpWDhTQzhCTktpOXRyU05OSVNHb0lsczNfZ0FYa0dKcG9jWE8wbVl4a0ZsMDZRbHE0ZGFZbi1kUG1CZ3R5QnB3Z2M0TTk1LVdWNTR0Rjh4cklGSjBpUEpEN0lCaw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fvictoriansbn&v=0hH_rFRGtuk) Website: https://www.vsbn.com.au (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmVodDB0dWVYZndXb2tYTGxTZlFiNXZuRC1SUXxBQ3Jtc0trSGlfX1dIdldLV1Z5U09pb3d1ck9xUTlHZXBjTUlMVEJRaV9KUTltSXktcnp6dnhXLU1vRXBkX3M4bWZRLWd6VDhmeEJEaEtVaU1reWV6TlU5UjNaM1lFZ21VNnZiRzk3eFhJUlpLcFVkbzFUTmRCVQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vsbn.com.au%2F&v=0hH_rFRGtuk)

5. 

   14 Feb 2026

   Why Your Website Isn’t Converting (Even If You’re on Page 1 of Google)

   SEO, Copywriting & Visibility Secrets for Small Business Are you getting website traffic… but no enquiries? Ranking on Google… but not converting? Or worse — completely invisible online? In this episode of the Victorian Small Business Network Podcast, copywriter Marie Alafaci and SEO specialist Vicky Trainor (Websites Which Work) unpack the real reason many small businesses struggle with visibility — and why being “on Google” isn’t enough anymore This is not a fluffy SEO chat. It’s ...

6. 

   21 Jan 2026

   Essential Legal Tips for IT Providers, MSPs & Tech Consultants | VSBN Podcast

   Contracts can make or break your business—especially in the fast-paced world of IT, tech services, and small business supply chains. In this eye-opening episode, Sarah Burke, a seasoned commercial lawyer and founder of SLB Legal, teams up with Suresh GP from Taub Solutions, global IT consultant and business coach, to unravel the costly contract pitfalls that catch IT providers and service suppliers off guard. Whether you're: An IT provider chasing monthly invoices,A tech business scaling your...

7. 

   2 Dec 2025

   The Property Market Playbook: Lawyers, Lenders & Agents

   Buying or selling property? Don't move alone! In this essential episode of the VSBN Podcast, host Cynthia Peretz from Metrolinx Property Advisors sits down with two experts: Crystal Evans from Attain Loans (Finance) and Lynda Sanders from Dixon & Sanders Lawyers (Legal). We dive deep into the entire property process—from securing the right finance and navigating tricky legal documents, to the invaluable role of a vendor and buyer's advocate. Get the expert knowledge you need to move fast...

8. 

   28 Oct 2025

   Top Renovation Mistakes to Avoid | Interior Design + Cabinetry Tips from the Pros

   🎙️ Renovation Secrets from the Experts | Interior Design & Cabinetry Tips You Need Now! Thinking about renovating your home or office? 💡 Discover insider insights from top pros on how to get it right—without blowing your budget or your mind. Join Glaucia from RenovAction, her husband William (designer + cabinetmaker), and interior design expert Sharon Lynch as they break down the real renovation process. From the power of early planning to design trends that could cost you in the long run...

9. 

   22 Sept 2025

   What Small Business Owners Waste Money On (and Where to Spend Instead)

   Are you wasting money in your business without even realising it? Most small business owners are! In this episode of the VSBN Podcast, Jessy Warn (HR Gurus), Phil East (Profit Improvers), and Rosslyn Pearce (The Funding Factory) break down the common money traps business owners fall into—and exactly where you should be investing instead. From marketing mistakes and poor hiring decisions to cash flow mismanagement and toxic workplace culture, this discussion is packed with real-world insights...

10. 

    6 Aug 2025

    How to Sell Your Small Business for Maximum Profit | Expert Tips from Broker, Lawyer & Accountant

    Thinking of selling your business? Or buying your first one? Discover insider secrets from a business broker, commercial lawyer, and small business accountant on how to maximize profit, avoid costly mistakes, and get your deal done smoothly. This is a must-watch for any small business owner planning an exit—or a bold new beginning. 🎙️ Hosted by Sarah Burke from SLB Legal, with guests Tyler Sandiford (Keystone Business Sales) and Kristy Whibley (Adroit Accounting), this power trio shares real...

11. 

    28 Jul 2025

    Copy, Code & Design: How to Get Creative Collaboration Right | VSBN Podcast

    What does it take to deliver a seamless, high-impact project across multiple specialists? In this episode of the VSBN Small Business Podcast, host Marie Alafaci is joined by designer Vanessa Thomas (Synkd) and developer Benjamin Marriott (Cornerstone and Compass) for a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how to collaborate effectively across copy, design, and development. We cover: What makes a dream team click—and what makes it crumbleWhy clear timelines and briefs are non-negotiableHow to ...

12. 

    10 Jun 2025

    From Kitchen Cabinets to Property Keys: The Power of Personalised Service

    Glaucia Camargo and Cynthia Peretz explore personalized service in cabinet making and property advocacy, revealing the emotional depth and strategic thinking required in their industries in this interview.

13. 

    12 Dec 2024

    Wellness, Empowerment and Brazilian Delights for the Soul - VSBN Podcast

    VSBN hosts share expert insights from a hypnotherapist, kinesiologist, empowerment coach, and Brazilian food entrepreneur on transformative wellness strategies for small business owners.

14. 

    11 Dec 2024

    Communication is Key! Especially for Property Management and Custom Cabinetry

    Chuck Joubert from Proactiv Property Group and Glaucia Camargo from Renovaction share how clear communication and innovation drive success in boutique property management and custom cabinetry.

15. 

    9 Dec 2024

    Contracts, Profit, Invoices and Employment Opportunities - VSBN Podcast

    Jan Davis and Sarah Burke, experts in disability employment and contracts law, share practical strategies for boosting profits, getting invoices paid, and creating inclusive workplaces in small businesses.

16. 

    9 Dec 2024

    Master Your Small Business Brand - VSBN Podcast - EP3

    Branding specialists Kosta Iatrou, Marie Alafaci, and Xenia Buman share actionable insights on crafting compelling brands and content that tell unique business stories.

17. 

    23 Oct 2024

    Tread On Trafficking with Marija Caruana-Smith

    We dive into the heart of powerful movements making a real difference! Today, we’re sitting down with Marija Caruana-Smith, the inspiring co-founder of Tread On Trafficking, a national fundraising event supporting Destiny Rescue. Tread On Trafficking - https://www.treadontrafficking.com.au/Marija shares her incredible journey—how this event started, the impact it’s making, and why she’s so passionate about protecting children from exploitation. We’ll also explore the role the busine...

18. 

    4 Sept 2024

    Small Business Goal Setting with Lisa G (AKA The Business Chick)

    Do you have a plan for 2024This audio was taken from a Grow Your Network event where the fabulous Lisa G, The Business Chick, who is a business coach. We went through goal setting exercises with our group."So today being January, everything I've been doing the last 30 days really with clients is all about planning for 2024. Even if you've got a plan, it's about most people have it in their head. They've got kind of a goal or they kinda know what they're going to do for the year, but they neve...

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

4,200

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 15 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

3

Social presence

0

YouTube

68

Engagement

0