In this episode of Q&A with S&A, Shane and Andrea sit down with Wayne Schmidt - global traveller, digital nomad, business mentor, and industry leader with over 35 years of experience in accounting, sales, and technology.

Wayne shares his remarkable journey from programming on mainframes and pioneering fixed-fee models, to launching software giants like Xero, and now mentoring firms while travelling the world. He reflects on lessons learned from corporate life, why planning for retirement is really about planning what you’re retiring to, and how AI is reshaping the accounting profession at breakneck speed.

Tune in for candid stories, practical advice, and a glimpse into Wayne’s life as a semi-retired consultant balancing work, travel, and lifestyle - all while staying ahead of the curve.

About Bespoke Mentor: https://www.bespokementor.com/

Connect with Wayne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayneschmidt/

More about Aintree Group: https://aintreegroup.com.au/

In this episode of Q&A with S&A, Andrea and Shane chat with Gus McLennan, Co-Founder and CEO of Propella.ai, about how AI is reshaping professional services businesses. Over the past year, Aintree Group has partnered with Propella.ai to develop AI-driven internal process databases, boosting accuracy, security, and data management.

The conversation looks at common myths and legitimate concerns, while also highlighting the opportunities AI can unlock when applied thoughtfully. Gus shares guidance on overcoming overwhelm, managing resistance to disruption, and addressing security concerns - so businesses can embrace the benefits of AI in a fast-evolving space with confidence.

About Propella.ai: https://www.propella.ai/

Dr. Jackie King joins Shane and Andrea to share how she discovered her purpose through empathy, both for herself and for others, and the journey of reconciling the many parts of her life and identity.

Fresh from her first solo international trip in decades, Jackie reflects on the pivotal life experiences that have shaped her path: learning to find and follow her flow, leading with compassion, and embracing understanding. She also opens up about the strength she has found in her “otherness” during some of life’s most challenging moments.

This is an inspiring conversation about authenticity, resilience, and the power of empathy in discovering who we truly are.

🔗 Learn more about Jackie: drjackieking.com.au

📘 Order her book The Ultimate Other: Amazon Australia