What does it really take to make government listen?
In this episode, we sit down with Simone Douglas — publican, business advocate, and founder of the Business Owners Collective — to unpack how small business owners can influence government decisions, shape better policy, and drive change that matters.

From rallying hundreds of hospitality operators during COVID to getting real reform on the political radar, Simone shows how small business can have a powerful voice — when it’s used strategically and collectively.

🔍 What You’ll Learn

• How to get government’s attention — and why facts matter more than frustration.

• The importance of building a “tribe” — why collective voices carry weight.

• How to engage media effectively — developing relationships that amplify your story.

• Turning emotion into influence — staying calm, credible, and solution-focused.

• Inside story: How Simone’s $33 chicken parmi went viral and changed public perception.

• Real-world advocacy tips — how to meet with ministers, frame your argument, and offer workable solutions.

🗣️ Key Quotes

“You can make change happen — but you do have to get the attention of the people in power.” – Simone Douglas

“If you’re emotional, it’s very difficult to be heard. The people you’re speaking to will react to your emotion, not your argument.” – Simone Douglas

“Go to government with solutions, not complaints.” – Ron Tomlian

“You’re never powerless. Politicians work for us — whether they realise it or not.” – Simone Douglas

If you found this episode useful, hit Subscribe for more conversations that help business owners rethink how they operate, connect, and grow.

Most networking advice focuses on how to start a conversation. But what do you do after that?

In this episode, Brenton and Ron reveal the only two networking tactics you’ll ever need — and neither involves collecting business cards or giving your elevator pitch.

The secret?
👉 Find alignment
👉 Do things together

These two principles are at the heart of every strong business relationship. Whether you're nurturing your current network or expanding into new circles, this episode breaks down how to make your networking activities feel more natural, valuable, and effective.

You’ll learn:

• How to spot when someone is truly aligned with your goals and values

• Why doing things with others (even menial tasks) builds connection

• Conversation starters that are actually interesting

• How introverts can network on their own terms

• A practical, no-fluff approach to turning events into opportunities

This episode is about how to network in a way that is sure to build strong connections.

🔗 Subscribe to Business Builders for more real-world insights on building relationships and growing a business that matters.

In this candid conversation, Cameron Johnston shares the raw reality of building a business up from four people to a diversified group that includes more than 100 staff across five businesses and the challenges he's faced along the way.

From failing his first attempt at payroll to driving trucks with critical payloads across Australia during a crisis, Cameron has learned the hard way what it means to carry the weight of leadership and the necessity of delegation. We talk about the moments that defined his journey, from facing near-collapse, letting go of control, hiring a CEO, and the power of surrounding yourself with good people.

Whether you're scaling a business, managing a team, or simply feeling stuck — Cameron’s story will inspire you to keep moving, even when standing still feels like the easy option.

What You'll Learn:

• Why leaders can’t afford to wait for the perfect moment to act
• How Cameron transitioned from corporate life to business ownership
• What to do when you’re at rock bottom — and still have to lead
• The tough truth about employing people (the good and the bad)
• How delegation, trust, and a bit of strategic ignorance can set you free
• Why comparison is toxic, and your business journey must be your own
• The surprising power of peer groups and speaking honestly
• The personal side of leadership: burnout, balance, and bringing your family along

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  About Cameron Johnston:

  Cameron is a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of the Rowlands Group, a collective of businesses with a focus on design, manufacturing, urban infrastructure and asset management. With over 25 years of experience, Cameron brings honesty, humility, and humour to the often-over-glamorised world of business leadership.

  He’s also a host of Business Builders and a firm believer in giving back by sharing the lessons he learned the hard way.