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AI is changing the way people search for businesses. In this episode, I speak with Elise Balsillie from Thryv about how quickly search behaviour is changing, what AI means for small and medium businesses, and what business owners can do now to improve their chances of being found. Elise points out that people are no longer always typing a short keyword into Google and clicking through a list of websites. They are increasingly asking much more detailed questions and letting AI recommend the answer — and sometimes the business. elise-tony-take-02 That means traditional SEO still matters, but it now sits alongside AI search and answer engines. We talk about practical things small businesses can do, including testing how their own business appears in AI search, improving ratings and reviews, answering the questions customers regularly ask and making sure their online presence is accurate and useful. How AI is changing search behaviourWhy SEO and AI search now need to work togetherHow to test whether AI can find your businessWhy reviews and ratings matterWhy directories are becoming relevant againUsing AI to solve real business problemsWhy FAQs can help businesses get cited in AI answersUnderstanding how your brand appears onlineHow AI can help smaller businesses compete with larger companiesWhy the best place to start is simply to have a playOne of Elise’s strongest points is that business owners do not need to treat AI as a mysterious black box. You can actually ask it why it recommended a particular business and learn from the answer. elise-tony-take-02 And the opportunity is still there for businesses prepared to start making small changes now. In this episode

Get your bum off the chair. That is Lisa Llewellyn’s advice after more than 25 years of working from home. The flexibility of working from home is great, but Lisa says it is also easy to spend the whole day — and sometimes the evening — sitting behind a screen unless you deliberately make time to get out, see people and connect. lisa-tony When Lisa and her partner moved from Sydney to the Northern Rivers, they only knew a couple of people locally. Their dogs changed that. Daily walks became conversations. Conversations became coffee and dinner. And over time, those small interactions became a genuine local support network. lisa-tony In this episode, Lisa talks about: working from home and the risk of becoming isolatedwhy connection has to be deliberatedogs as natural icebreakersbuilding the Wag Stars dog-walking communitywhy coffee, walks and small conversations matterthe value of getting outside and into naturehow small business owners can become overwhelmedknowing when to step away, talk to someone and seek supportLisa also talks about the impact those simple interactions can have on other people. Members of the Wag Stars group dealing with depression and anxiety have told her that regular conversations and being welcomed into the group made a profound difference to their lives. lisa-tony For anyone working from home, running a business or simply spending too much time behind a screen, the message is simple: Get your bum off the chair. Go for a walk. Have the coffee. Say g’day. You never know where the conversation might lead.

Positioning, AI slop and knowing what your business stands for with Krista Patterson In this episode of Podcast My Business, Tony Skinner speaks with Krista Patterson from The Positioning Collective about positioning, leadership, AI-generated content and why businesses need clarity before they create more content. The conversation starts with the idea of champion teams and why talented people do not always create a strong team on their own. From there, Tony and Krista move into positioning, AI slop, shortened attention spans, startup clarity, sales, personal brand and why more content is not always better content. Krista makes the point that AI can help produce content quickly, but if a business is not clear on its audience, message and market position, the output can easily become scattered, generic or irrelevant. Tony and Krista discuss: why a group of talented people still needs a shared visionwhat business teams can learn from sportwhy shortened attention spans make clarity more importanthow AI can create more content but not necessarily better contentwhy AI slop often starts with unclear positioninghow businesses can use AI without losing their voicewhy founders need to understand the position they want to hold in the marketthe importance of knowing the one idea you want to hold in the customer’s mindwhy selling can take different formswhy every person and business has a brand, whether they work on it or notwhy going viral is not useful if you are attracting the wrong audienceAI can create content, but it cannot create clarity. If a business does not know who it is trying to reach, what it wants to be known for and what message it wants to own, more content may only create more noise. Krista’s point is simple but important: before businesses produce more posts, articles, videos or AI-generated content, they need to understand their positioning. Clarity comes before volume. Krista PattersonThe Positioning Collective Website:https://positioningcollective.com

Mental health access, self-care and support with Garrett Houston In this episode of Podcast My Business, Tony Skinner speaks with Garrett Houston from Psychology South and Wellbeing Services in Tasmania. Garrett talks about the need for better access to mental health support, especially in areas where services can be limited and waiting lists can stretch for months. The conversation covers how Psychology South has expanded its clinic capacity, why face-to-face support still matters, the challenges of delivering mental health services in Tasmania, and the practical role of self-care, connection, exercise, sunshine and getting outside. Tony and Garrett discuss: why access to mental health support mattershow Psychology South has expanded its service capacitywhy some people wait months to see a psychologistthe mental health challenges faced in Tasmaniathe role of face-to-face support and telehealthwhy online search matters when people are looking for helpsimple self-care habits that can support mental healthwhy connection, movement and getting outside still matterthe importance of helping people before things get worseMental health support should not take months to access. When people are struggling, waiting too long can make things harder. Better access, earlier support and practical self-care can all play a role in helping people get through difficult periods. Garrett also makes the point that self-care does not fix everything, but the basics still matter: connection, movement, sleep, food, sunshine and time outdoors. Garrett HoustonPsychology South and Wellbeing ServicesTasmania

Loneliness, social prescribing and real-world connection with Davis Lemke In this episode of Podcast My Business, Tony Skinner speaks with Davis Lemke, CEO of Clarity Health Care, about loneliness, social prescribing, green prescribing and the role real-world connection can play in supporting mental health. The conversation looks at why people can feel more disconnected even when they are constantly connected online, and why activities such as bushwalking, exercise, community groups and shared interests can help people build healthier routines and stronger social connections. Davis also explains how health care is starting to look more broadly at wellbeing, not just disease treatment, and why connection, physical activity and community participation can all form part of better mental health support. Tony and Davis discuss: why loneliness has become such a serious issuewhy online contact is not always the same as real connectionhow bushwalking and green space can support mental wellbeingwhat social prescribing and green prescribing meanwhy community groups and shared activities can help reduce isolationhow workplaces and business owners can think more deliberately about connectionwhy wellbeing support should be proactive, not only used when things go wrongBeing connected online is not the same as feeling connected in real life. Social media can create contact, information and interaction. But real connection often needs something deeper: conversation, shared activity, community and repeated human contact. For business owners and workplaces, that matters too. If more work and communication are happening online, connection needs to be planned more deliberately. Davis LemkeCEO, Clarity Health Care Website:https://www.clarityhealthcare.com.au/ In this episodeKey takeawayGuest

The Mental Load of Building a BusinessFounder wellbeing and sustainable performance with Byron McCaughey In this episode of Podcast My Business, Tony Skinner speaks with Byron McCaughey, psychologist and founder of Sublime Studio, about the pressure founders and entrepreneurs carry when building a business. The conversation covers founder stress, uncertainty, burnout warning signs, online visibility, authentic leadership and why wellbeing is closely linked to business performance. Byron also explains why psychological capital should be treated as a business lever, not just a personal wellbeing issue. Founder pressure and uncertaintyWhy business owners often look like they are copingStress, anxiety and the “red zone”How pressure affects decisions, communication and relationshipsOnline visibility without feeling like you have to performAuthentic leadership and showing up without wearing a maskPsychological capital and sustainable performancePractical tools for staying grounded under pressureByron shared a short grounding exercise called Dropping the Anchor, designed to help you step out of your mind and re-engage with the present moment when stress, anxiety or overwhelm starts to build. The exercise uses the acronym ACE: Accept what is showing up for you without judgement or resistance. Example: “I acknowledge that I’m feeling nervous about this meeting, and that’s okay.” Shift your attention to something physical you can control right now. Examples include pressing your feet into the floor, taking a slow deep breath, or noticing your hands on the chair. Anchor yourself to your environment by noticing something around you that you had not paid attention to before. Examples include the way light is coming through the window, the shape of an object in the room, or details in someone’s face. Byron also discussed Psychological Capital as an important part of founder wellbeing and sustainable performance. Psychological Capital helps founders get a clearer picture of their mental fitness across the four pillars of mental fitness, and learn how to strengthen the foundations that support sustainable performance. Byron describes psychological capital as a performance multiplier and says it should be seen as a business lever, just like other forms of capital inside a business. Looking like you are coping is not the same as coping. For founders and business owners, sustainable performance requires self-awareness, support, practical tools and a stronger mental foundation. Byron McCaugheyPsychologistSublime Studio Website:https://sublimestudio.com.au/

Sole traders make up a huge part of Australia’s small business economy, but many are still left to manage superannuation, tax and long-term financial planning largely on their own. In this episode of Podcast My Business, Tony Skinner speaks with Karan Anand from Hnry about why superannuation matters for sole traders, why many independent earners delay or avoid contributions, and how the system is still largely designed around employees rather than people who work for themselves. Karan explains the discipline challenge of voluntary super contributions, the tax treatment of concessional contributions, the importance of understanding fees and returns, and the admin steps sole traders can easily miss. The conversation also touches on Hnry’s ContractorSuper update, which is designed to help businesses manage contractor super payments where those obligations apply. This is a practical conversation for sole traders, independent earners, contractors and small business owners who want to better understand the role super can play in long-term financial security. Most employees have superannuation handled for them. For many sole traders, it is a very different story. They often need to make contributions themselves, manage the cash flow, understand the rules, and make sure the right admin steps are completed. That can be difficult when they are already doing the work, chasing invoices, managing tax, paying expenses and keeping the business moving. In this episode, Tony Skinner speaks with Karan Anand from Hnry about sole traders, superannuation and the long-term financial decisions independent earners need to think about. Karan explains why many sole traders do not make regular super contributions, why some are delaying contributions under financial pressure, and how voluntary super can be both a wealth-building tool and a discipline challenge. The conversation also covers concessional contributions, super fund performance, fees, the importance of getting advice, and why the system still often assumes a traditional employee/employer relationship. Karan also discusses Hnry’s ContractorSuper update, designed to help businesses manage contractor super payments where those obligations apply.

In this episode of Podcast My Business, Tony Skinner speaks with Andrew Towner about sport, networking and business — recorded off the back of the Socceroos’ famous win over Turkey.The conversation starts with football, but quickly moves into a bigger business lesson: the most expensive team is not always the best team.Andrew shares how sport creates a natural connection point between people, and why business often flows more easily once trust and relationships have been built. From networking events to club partnerships, he explains why bringing people together around a shared interest can open doors that cold outreach often cannot.Tony and Andrew also discuss the similarities between running a business and coaching a team. Talent matters, but so do structure, leadership, clear roles, trust and people management. As Andrew points out, some of the best coaches are not just technical experts — they are managers of people.The episode also covers networking consistency, follow-up, accountability and why business relationships often take months or years to turn into real opportunities.In this episodeWhy the Socceroos’ win was a great reminder that team value does not guarantee team performanceThe difference between a team of champions and a champion teamHow sport creates an easy starting point for business conversationsWhy networking works best when it is built around relationships, not quick salesWhat business owners can learn from coaches and sporting teamsWhy trust, follow-up and accountability matter in business developmentHow business opportunities can come from relationships built years earlierKey themesSport and businessNetworkingBusiness relationshipsTeamworkLeadershipTrustAccountabilityFollow-upSocceroosWorld CupBusiness developmentGuestAndrew TownerAndrew works with businesses through sport, networking and relationship-building, helping people connect through shared interests and business communities.

When a business gets into trouble, the damage does not always stay inside the business. As Alan Bond discovered, business failure can become personal very quickly. In this episode of Podcast My Business, Tony Skinner speaks with Chris Baskerville, Partner at Jirsch Sutherland Insolvency Solutions, about what happens when business debt, personal pressure, bankruptcy and restructuring collide. This conversation looks at the rise in personal and business insolvencies, the risks directors face, how personal and company finances can become tangled, and why acting early can make a major difference. Chris also explains the options people may have before and after bankruptcy, including personal insolvency agreements, restructuring pathways and the importance of understanding cash flow before the pressure becomes too great. In this episode, we cover: Why personal and business insolvencies are risingHow business debt can become personal pressureSole traders, companies and liability structuresDirector liability and tax debtPhoenixing and legal consequencesBankruptcy and restrictions on managing companiesPersonal insolvency agreementsCash flow problems in construction and retailWhy profit on paper does not always mean cash in the bankWhy getting advice early matters

In this episode of Podcast My Business, Tony Skinner speaks with Karan Anand from HNRY about what the latest sole trader survey reveals about business confidence, economic pressure, and the rapid rise of AI adoption among Australia’s self-employed workers. The conversation explores how sole traders are responding to cost pressures, changing customer behaviour, and uncertain market conditions. Karan shares insights from HNRY’s pulse survey, including the growing number of sole traders using AI tools in their business and what that could mean for productivity, competition, and future opportunities. Tony and Karan also discuss the federal budget, the impact of economic shocks on sectors such as trades and healthcare, and why AI may become a practical advantage for sole traders who learn how to use it well. This episode is for sole traders, freelancers, consultants, small business owners, and anyone interested in how AI is changing the way smaller operators compete. Tony and Karan discuss: What HNRY’s sole trader survey reveals about confidence and business conditionsWhy economic shocks can hit sole traders quicklyThe impact of reduced spending on tradies, healthcare providers, and service businessesWhat the federal budget means for small business ownersWhy AI adoption among sole traders is acceleratingHow sole traders are using AI to save time and improve productivityThe risks of ignoring AI while competitors start using itWhy small businesses may have an advantage when adopting new tools quicklyThe future of work for sole traders and self-employed professionalsOne of the biggest insights from the conversation is that AI is no longer just a tool for large companies. According to the survey insights discussed in the episode, around three in four sole traders are now using AI in some form, with many using it regularly in their work. The episode also highlights that sole traders often feel economic changes faster than larger businesses. When costs rise, customers pull back, or work slows, sole traders can feel the pressure almost immediately because many operate without large financial buffers. AI offers a potential competitive edge because it can help small operators move faster, communicate better, produce content, manage admin, research ideas, and improve productivity without needing a large team. The main message: AI will not replace the value of good service, trust, relationships, or expertise — but sole traders who learn how to use it well may have a serious advantage over those who ignore it. 00:00 — Introduction and HNRY Pulse Survey InsightsTony introduces Karan Anand and the discussion around HNRY’s latest sole trader survey. 02:52 — Economic Pressure on Sole TradersKaran explains how economic shocks can quickly affect sole traders, especially those working invoice to invoice. 05:48 — Federal Budget and Small Business ImplicationsTony and Karan discuss the budget, policy settings, and what they may mean for self-employed Australians. 08:45 — AI Adoption Among Sole TradersThe conversation turns to the rapid uptake of AI among sole traders and what the survey numbers reveal. 12:00 — AI Tools and ProductivityKaran and Tony discuss how tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and other LLMs are changing everyday business tasks. 14:56 — Competing in an AI-Driven MarketWhy sole traders who use AI well may be able to compete more effectively against larger businesses. 18:06 — The Future of Small Business and AITony and Karan explore what AI could mean for the next stage of sole trader and small business growth. 20:57 — Final ThoughtsThe episode wraps with reflections on opportunity, adaptation, and the future of work. HNRYhttps://hnry.com.au Content Made Easyhttps://contentmadeeasy.com.au Podcast My Businesshttps://podcastmybusiness.com.au Karan Anand

Today’s Federal Budget has sparked a fierce debate across Australia’s startup and small business community. Some founders are calling it the biggest threat to innovation in years. Others say it’s a necessary correction. But one thing is clear — sole traders, startups, investors and small business owners are all paying close attention. In this special episode of Podcast My Business, Tony Skinner speaks with Karan Anand from Hnry Australia about the tax changes, startup concerns, and what this budget could mean for the future of Australian business. The conversation explores: Why venture capital and startup founders are reacting so stronglyWhether the new CGT changes could discourage innovationConcerns around employee share schemes and attracting talentWhy some businesses may look overseasThe permanent $20,000 instant asset write-offAI-powered ATO compliance and auditsMonthly PAYG discussions and real-time tax systemsWhy sole traders often miss out on government supportThe growing pressure on small businesses doing the right thingTony and Karan also discuss the wider economic picture, including fuel relief, housing concerns, the shadow economy, and the increasing role of data and automation in the Australian tax system. Whether you’re running a startup, working as a sole trader, investing in business, or simply trying to understand where the Australian economy is heading — this episode gives a grounded look at one of the biggest business debates happening right now. Karan Anand – Hnry Australia Podcast My Business Content Made Easy GuestPodcast ChannelVideo & Content Production

In this episode of my podcast channel, Podcast My Business, I speak with Ryan McMillan from Atlas Digital about AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), online trust, and the growing issue of AI reputation risk for businesses. As more people rely on tools like ChatGPT, Gemini and Perplexity for recommendations and information, businesses are facing a new challenge:What happens when AI gets your business information wrong? Ryan explains how outdated pricing, incorrect services, inaccurate summaries and AI hallucinations can influence consumer decisions — especially when most people don’t second guess AI-generated answers. We discuss: Why people are increasingly trusting AI recommendationsWhat AI reputation risk means for businessesHow LLMs like ChatGPT and Gemini are changing search behaviourWhy incorrect or outdated online information can have commercial impactsAI hallucinations and misinformationHow businesses can audit how AI represents them onlineThe role of reviews, authority and original contentWhy “being understood” online matters alongside being foundThe importance of creating quality content that adds to the ecosystem rather than echoing itRyan also shares practical advice for businesses wanting to better understand how AI tools are surfacing information about their products and services today. Guest:Ryan McMillan

In this engaging interview, Tony and Karan Anand from Hnry.com.au explore the world of sole traders in Australia, discussing their confidence levels, business structures, and the impact of current global events. They share practical tips for sole traders to manage their finances effectively, adapt to technological changes like AI, and navigate economic uncertainties.

In this episode, Dr. Matthew Warden, Chief Medical Officer and Psychiatrist, discusses the importance of sleep for health and productivity, especially for business professionals. Topics include optimal sleep duration, sleep hygiene tips, the impact of sleep on mental and physical health, and practical advice for prioritising sleep. Takeaways Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep for optimal health.Establishing a consistent sleep schedule is crucial.Avoid stimulating activities before bed to improve sleep quality.Exercise, especially in the morning, enhances sleep.Poor sleep is linked to mental health issues and physical illnesses.

In this podcast episode, Tony and Professor David Castle discuss the significant impact of small changes in exercise on health and longevity. They explore how even minimal physical activity can reduce the risk of early death and improve overall well-being. The conversation emphasises the importance of integrating exercise into daily routines, the benefits of a comprehensive health program, and the role of physical activity in preventing conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Practical tips for maintaining an active lifestyle are also shared, highlighting the importance of balance and strength training as we age. Takeaways Even small amounts of exercise can significantly improve health. Five minutes of vigorous exercise can reduce early death risk. Socializing and exercise can enhance mood and well-being. Incremental changes in exercise habits are effective. A comprehensive health program addresses diet, exercise, and mental health. Exercise can help prevent Alzheimer's disease. Building exercise into daily routines is essential. Balance and strength training are crucial as we age. Setting achievable fitness goals can motivate individuals. Enjoying the process of getting fit is important.