No Limitations

In Episode 132 of the No Limitations podcast Australian First, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to the Director, Indigenous Forum at the Centre for Independent Studies, Nyunggai Warren Mundine AO. In an inspiring discussion, Warren describes his start in life as one of eleven children in a poor household in regional New South Wales. His family then relocated to Sydney where he attended the local Catholic school. Despite leaving school early to work as a trolley boy and as a barman, Warren later completed his Higher School Certificate through night school. He then moved to Adelaide to study at the South Australian Institute of Technology, now called the University of South Australia . A common thread throughout the conversation is Warren’s belief in the importance of education and its unrivalled ability to uplift the disadvantaged, whether Aboriginal or otherwise. Warren asserts that Australia is the greatest nation on earth, free from discrimination and institutionalised racism, and he expresses pride in his dual Aboriginal and Irish lineage. Warren offers an appraisal of the Voice and the path forward for the nation. He also covers a range of engaging topics including four year federal parliamentary terms, nuclear power, and the defence of Israel. Lastly, Warren explains his disillusionment with the Labor Party and his decision to join the Liberal Party, referring to Robert Menzies’ founding vision of freedom, equality before the law, and prosperity. Warren started his political career as an independent candidate for the city of Dubbo where he was the first Aboriginal person to serve on the council. He ran as a candidate for the Labor Party in the 1999 New South Wales election and as a candidate for the Senate in the 2001 Federal election. In 2006, Warren became President of the Labor Party and was the first Aboriginal Australian to serve as president of an Australian political party. Later, Warren joined the Liberal Party and served as the Chairman of Tony Abbott’s and Malcolm Turnbull’s Prime Minister’s Indigenous Advisory Council. Warren is Chair of the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation and the Conservative Political Action Conference. Warren is also on the Boards of several business groups including Aura Energy Ltd, Fuse Minerals Ltd, and JobTrail. Warren frequently appears in the media and has published two books. Please note: this episode was recorded on 16 April 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 131 of the No Limitations podcast Meeting in a Telephone Box, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to the 45th Premier of Tasmania, The Hon Will Hodgman. Will was the member for Franklin between 2002 and 2020 and is currently the Principal of Hodgman Partners. In a compelling discussion, Will describes his start in life in a family with an illustrious history in Tasmanian politics. Whilst emphasising the major achievements of his government, including budget repair, an improved tourism industry, better education outcomes, and a stronger economy, he also does not shy away from many of the chronic problems facing Tasmania today. Will depicts himself as a proud and passionate Tasmanian and explains his reasons for resigning as Premier after only six years in office. In addition, Will addresses a number of important topics, including the need for indigenous recognition in the Preamble to the Constitution, his thoughts on four year federal parliamentary terms, and his preference for Australia to become a republic. Will sheds light on his meaningful and rewarding work outside of Parliament as High Commissioner to Singapore and reflects on the “enormous” opportunity for Australia in South East Asia and its common ground with Singapore as an advanced and first-world democracy. Lastly, Will asserts that Tasmania and Australia should seek a more ambitious reform agenda. Will started his career at Hobart law firm Wallace Wilkinson & Webster, practising in criminal and personal injury law. Will was then a solicitor for the Wiltshire County Council in the United Kingdom where he appeared in the County Court and the High Court. Will returned to Hobart and continued to practise as a solicitor and as a barrister before he entered Tasmanian Parliament in 2002 in the electorate of Franklin alongside his father who was the member for the neighbouring Denison electorate. Will was re-elected in 2006 and was unanimously voted as leader of the Tasmanian Liberal Party. After a hung parliament in 2010 in which the incumbent Labor Government was returned to power, in 2014, and under Will’s leadership, the Liberal Party formed government. Will served as Premier for six years (including another election victory in 2018) before leaving politics. Thereafter, Will was the Australian High Commissioner to Singapore. He now operates Hodgman Partners, his own consultancy, and acts as an adviser to a range of businesses across the asset management, sustainable energy storage, and technology and artificial intelligence industries. Please note: this episode was recorded on 21 March 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 130 of the No Limitations podcast A Witch That Lived Under My Bed, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Dr Adi Paterson, Principal and Founder of Siyeva Consulting. Adi was formerly Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Australia’s nuclear centre of excellence. In a confronting discussion, Adi recounts his early years in South Africa, amidst the turbulent backdrop of the apartheid era, to becoming a leading figure in nuclear research and innovation. He explores the untapped potential of nuclear technology, while fearlessly addressing misconceptions and advocating for a re-evaluation of Australia's political stance on nuclear power. With a rich blend of scientific expertise and personal anecdotes, he calls for Australians to “wake up” to the grave reality of our energy future and its consequences for our future generations and forgotten Australians. He delves into the complex lifecycle considerations of various energy sources, offering a critical perspective on the true costs of renewable alternatives. Adi challenges us to reconsider our perceptions of nuclear energy, beckoning a dialogue that transcends fear and embraces the transformative potential it holds for a sustainable energy future. Prior to becoming the Chief Executive Officer of ANSTO, Adi served as the General Manager of Business Development and Operations at the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor Company in South Africa. Adi was Group Executive of the Department of Science and Technology within the South African Government and Executive Vice-President at the South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. Adi has contributed to numerous advisory Boards and committees and is currently a Board Member of HB11 Energy and AdvanCell Isotopes. Please note: this episode was recorded on 5 February 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 129 of the No Limitations podcast Put It On The Line, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Craig Tiley, Chief Executive Officer of Tennis Australia. Craig provides an insider’s perspective on the Australian Open and sheds light on the three main groups he and the team are responsible for: over one million patrons in attendance, a global viewership surpassing one billion, and over 800 players from more than 205 countries. Craig explains his new initiatives for the tournament in the next two years and his ambition for the Australian Open to become the best sporting event worldwide with over one billion dollars in revenue. Standing back, Craig explains how he fell in love with tennis in apartheid South Africa and shares with us his view on the “massive logistical exercise” of running the Australian Open as well as some interesting stories and perspectives. As Chief Executive Officer of Tennis Australia, Craig is also the Tournament Director of the Australian Open. Prior to this, he was the Director of Player Development at Tennis Australia. Earlier, he was Head Coach of the men’s tennis team at the University of Illinois which he led to the longest winning streak in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) history. Craig also served as Captain of the South African Davis Cup Team and was a part of the Professional Tennis Management program at the University of Texas at Tyler while he completed a master’s degree in kinesiology. Earlier in life in South Africa, Craig was a highly ranked amateur tennis player who completed an economics degree at the University of Stellenbosch as well as military service as a Lieutenant in the South African Army. Craig is the Chair of the Coalition of Major Professional and Participation Sports in Australia and is on the Boards of SafetyCulture and arts festival Rising. Please note: this episode was recorded on 6 December 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a special unredacted edition of Episode 115 of the No Limitations podcast The Spy Who Didn’t Come Home, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jack Barsky, a former agent of the KGB, the foreign intelligence and domestic security agency of the Soviet Union. In a fascinating and revealing discussion, Jack shows us both sides of the Iron Curtain as we delve into the world of espionage. We uncover his story from his beginnings as a high-achieving student recruited by the KGB through the East German Stasi, trained in Moscow and eventually inserted into the United States. We hear of his missions, the near misses that risked blowing his cover and the lead up to his fateful encounter with the FBI. Originally from East Germany, Jack was recruited by the KGB as a university student and later infiltrated the United States where he spent ten years spying for the Soviet Union. He severed his relationship with the KGB in 1988 and pursued a corporate career in information technology. He was eventually discovered by the FBI. Today, Jack is an American citizen who is taking advantage of one last chance to live a normal life. In 2017, Jack released a book about his experiences Deep Undercover: My Secret Life and Tangled Allegiances as a KGB Spy in America. He is also the subject of a 12-part podcast series The Agent which was released in 2021. Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 April 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christmas is a time for giving. Please join the Blenheim Partners Christmas Wish in supporting Starlight Children’s Foundation Australia. Under Louise’s leadership as Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Starlight has been recognised as one of the most trusted children’s charities in the country, with a mission to brighten the lives of seriously ill children and their families at a time when they need happiness the most. Starlight is embedded in the Australian healthcare system as an essential service, now in every Children’s Hospital in Australia, supporting more than 140 indigenous and remote clinics and communities. Together, we can make a difference. To make a donation to Starlight Children’s Foundation Australia, please visit www.starlight.org.au Please note: this episode was recorded on 29 November 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 127 of the No Limitations podcast The Dawn of New Thinking, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Dominic Barton BBM, Chair of Rio Tinto and Chair of LeapFrog Investments. He was previously Global Managing Partner of McKinsey & Company. We are treated to an erudite discussion with Dominic as we delve into the dawn of a new form of capitalism, a re-imagined view of the world going through extraordinary times witnessing the fragmentation of the current international order, the rise of new superpowers, the emergence of new trading blocs, and the greatest re-allocation of capital in human history. As a former Global Managing Partner of McKinsey & Company having met nearly 3,500 Chief Executive Officers over the course of his career, he offers us rare insights into the elements of leadership including the nature of international business, how it intertwines with politics, and the importance of preserving the fabric of goodwill between nations. He shares with us how to have one eye on the telescope and another on the microscope, as Dominic ponders the future and conveys his excitement about many of the new and cutting-edge companies being launched. From 2019 to 2021, Dominic was the Ambassador of Canada to the People’s Republic of China. He is currently a Senior Advisor and Partner at AI investment firm Radical Ventures, the Chancellor of the University of Waterloo and an Adjunct Professor at Tsinghua University. He was previously Chairman of Teck Resources, Non-Executive Director at the Singtel Group, Non-Executive Director at Investor AB, and an Advisory Board Member of the Olayan Group. Dominic also previously served as Chair of Standard Chartered’s International Advisory Council, Chair of the Canadian Minister of Finance’s Advisory Council on Economic Growth, and Chair of the Seoul International Business Advisory Council. Dominic was a Senior Trustee of the Brookings Institution, a member of the Singapore Economic Development Board’s International Advisory Council and a member of the Boards of Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York City and the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. He has co-authored four books and received eight honorary doctorates. He also studied as a Rhodes Scholar at Brasenose College, Oxford University. Please note: this episode was recorded on 26 October 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 126 of the No Limitations podcast Bears on Bicycles, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Peggy O’Neal AO, Chancellor of RMIT University and former President of the Richmond Football Club. In a compelling conversation, Peggy discusses her start in life in a small coal mining town in West Virginia and how, after meeting an Australian backpacker in Greece, she relocated with him to Melbourne. Peggy then forged a reputation as one of Australia’s leading superannuation and financial services law experts and, since then, has taken on a range of Board positions. Peggy speaks about her role as President of the Richmond Football Club where they won three premierships in four years under her stewardship. From within the inner sanctum, Peggy sheds light on the euphoria of winning: the culmination of a new strategic agenda, improved financial management and the importance of consistency. She is also credited with strongly suggesting that coach Damien Hardwick complete a leadership course at Harvard where he learned the mantra of “excellence with happiness” that led to ultimate success for the Club. As the Chair of the now cancelled 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Peggy sheds some light on the behind the scenes challenges. In addition, as Chancellor of RMIT University, she emphasises the importance of both vocational skills and intellectual development in a tertiary degree and closes with her view on the nature of leadership in today’s society. Peggy started her career in Australia as a solicitor, and later partner, at Herbert Smith Freehills and is currently a consultant to Lander & Rogers, having specialised in superannuation and financial services law for over 25 years. She is the Chancellor of RMIT University, the Chair of Vanguard Superannuation and a Board Member of Women’s Housing Ltd and Home for Homes (an initiative of The Big Issue). Peggy has also served on the Boards of MLC Super Ltd and the Commonwealth Superannuation Fund. She has been Chair of the Law Council of Australia’s Superannuation Committee and was a consultant to the federal government’s review of the superannuation system in 2010. In sport, Peggy is the immediate past President of the Richmond Football Club, having served on the Board since 2005. She was also Chair of the Victorian Minister for Sport’s Inquiry into ‘Women and Girls in Sport and Active Recreation’ and was appointed to the Australian Institute of Sport Athlete Wellbeing and Engagement Advisory Committee, as well as serving on the AFL’s Mental Health Steering Committee. She was on the Victorian Ministerial Council on Women’s Equality for three years and was the inaugural Co-Chair of the Victorian chapter of the Minerva Network. Peggy is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is a member of Chief Executive Women and the Melbourne Forum. In 2019, Peggy was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for her services to Australian rules football, financial services law and women in leadership. Peggy was awarded Melburnian of the Year in 2021, received VicSport's award for "Outstanding Contribution to Sport" in 2022, and will be inducted as an AFL Life Member for her services to Australian Rules Football in 2024. Please note: this episode was recorded on 25th September 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast The Man in the Arena, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Philip Kearns AM, Chief Executive Officer of AVJennings Ltd. Phil is a former Captain of the Australian Wallabies and was part of Australia’s successful campaigns that secured the Webb Ellis Cup in 1991 and 1999. He was recently appointed as a Director of the Board of the Local Operating Company for the next Rugby World Cup to be held in Australia. We are taken on a journey through the lens of an elite athlete and Chief Executive Officer as we examine the principles of leadership and the art of winning. We commence with the magic of the World Cup, the behind-the-scenes preparation, sacrifice, motivation and important rituals of the event. From the pitch to the Boardroom, we consider the foundations for success, the essence of confidence and the need to make every minute count. We also learn of the Balmoral Burn’s good karma and a certain special twenty cent coin. Phil represented Australia in rugby union, having played 67 Tests after his debut in 1989. He was appointed Captain in 1992, leading Australia in 10 Tests and also played in the Rest of the World side against the All Blacks for the New Zealand Rugby Centenary celebrations. Prior to his current role, he was Managing Director of InterRisk Australia and Chief Executive Officer of Centric Wealth following an earlier career with Investec. Phil served on the Board of the Childhood Cancer Institute Australia, has been deeply involved with the Dumpty Dumpty Foundation and is the Founder of the Balmoral Burn event. Please note: this episode was recorded on 19 September 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast Can’t Argue With The Truth, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, Senator for the Northern Territory in the Parliament of Australia. In a special edition, Jacinta presents her perspective on the upcoming Voice referendum. She discusses the major issues at length, including the Uluru Statement from the Heart, representative democracy, equality before the law, overcoming disadvantage and improving living standards for Indigenous people as a whole. Jacinta asserts that, despite the at times divisive referendum debate, Australia remains one of the best nations on earth with rich diversity, boundless opportunity, a belief in mateship and a "fair go" for all. Jacinta also sheds light on the ways in which the real and chronic social problems affecting marginalised Indigenous groups can be addressed and the means by which we can "close the gap". For Jacinta, the path to a better future for all Australians lies in ending separatism, self-empowerment and embracing our one national identity. Jacinta was elected as a Councillor on the Alice Springs Council, serving from 2015 to 2021, and was Deputy Mayor in her last year. After running a strong but unsuccessful campaign for the federal seat of Lingiari, Jacinta ultimately won pre-selection for the Country Liberal Party’s number one Senate ticket and was successfully elected to the federal Senate in May 2022. Aside from political office, Jacinta has been a political commentator and a Director for Indigenous Research at the Centre for Independent Studies. After high school, Jacinta was also a singer and songwriter in hip hop groups and featured as an actress in children’s television programs. Please note: this episode was recorded on 5 October 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast Four Pillars of Humanity, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Stuart Gregor, Co-Founder of Four Pillars Gin. In a captivating conversation, Stu takes us behind the scenes of the creation of Australia’s largest craft distillery, Four Pillars Gin and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives it. He discusses his journey, from his early days as a journalist to his experience in the wine industry and the founding of Liquid Ideas. Stu also provides insight into the art and science of creative and impactful marketing, innovation, and the customer experience. He leaves us with a valuable perspective on how we can distinguish ourselves in a highly competitive landscape in a world that has never been more connected. Stuart Gregor is the Co-Founder of Four Pillars Gin, an award-winning Australian gin brand and distillery. He is also the Founder of Liquid Ideas, a creative communications agency that partners with well-known brands in the food, drink, and lifestyle industries. Stu has served on the Boards of OzHarvest and Starlight Foundation, and was previously the Inaugural Board Chair for the Australian Public Relations Council, as well as the President and Chair for the Australian Distillers Association. Please note: this episode was recorded on 28 August 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast The Middle-Class Artist, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jaddan Comerford, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of UNIFIED Music Group. In a relaxed discussion, we learn of Jaddan's pioneering and entrepreneurial journey into the rough and tumble of the music world. Starting out at the age of 17 as a one-man band in his parent's home, pursuing a dream, he learned on the fly, broke with tradition, and successfully reshaped the industry and the way we think about the business of music. In so doing, he has captured the imagination and support of emerging music talent and future greats, providing them with the platform and support to unlock and unleash their potential on the local and world stage. Jaddan lifts up the stage curtain, sharing with us the early days, the experimentations, the wins and the major breakthroughs. We uncover what lies ahead, the power of social media and new technologies, as we leave the dark days of COVID-19 behind and embrace the renaissance in music and all its creativity. Jaddan founded UNIFIED Music Group, an independent multi-service music company in 2011 and has attracted prominent artists such as Vance Joy, Dashboard Confessional, and Ocean Alley. This followed his debut in the industry, with the launch of Boomtown Records in 2002. Alongside UNIFIED, he's a Co-Founder and Start-up Investor at Side Stage Ventures, a venture capital fund, focused on building the ecosystem and supporting innovative companies, such as Heaps Normal, Vitruvian, Mr Yum, and Tixel. Please note: this episode was recorded on 3 July 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast A Rising Tide Floats All Boats, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Paul Scurrah, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Pacific National. In a highly engaging discussion, Paul, having worked at the pinnacle of logistics in Australia across all of rail, air and ports, shares his unique vision for the future of freight transport in Australia. Paul emphasises the need for a big-picture perspective as well as the importance of supply chain as an engine room for growth. Paul provides some salutary lessons from his time at the helm of Virgin Australia including its storied rivalry with Qantas and some advice for current airline management at a time when results and key decisions are much publicised, scrutinised and criticised. Paul sheds light on best practice for managing crises, having led through the darkest days of COVID-19 as well as, earlier in his career, having overseen Queensland Rail when most of its rail network was submerged by unprecedented floods. Paul discusses the substantial opportunities on offer for Australia in rail freight and touches on a range of interesting topics including high-speed rail networks, the appropriate place for ESG in commercial decision-making and the need for an apolitical and bipartisan future for rail and the broader transport sector. Lastly, Paul describes the touchstone values which have sustained him through the difficulties and successes in the upper echelons of corporate Australia, as well as his personal journey that took place away from the Boardroom. Paul was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Pacific National in 2021. His executive career began as Managing Director – Wholesale and Group Executive Director at The AOT Group and then as Chief Executive Officer at TravelOnline.com. Thereafter Paul held significant roles as Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Rail and as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DP World Australia. More prominently, Paul served as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Virgin Australia. Paul has served on a number of Boards, notably Australia Post, Gold Coast Suns Football Club and RPM Global. Please note: this episode was recorded on 26 June 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest episode of the No Limitations podcast No Set Rules, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Jack Gance, Chairman and Co-Founder of Chemist Warehouse. Jack's journey began in 1972 alongside his brother Sam, as they embarked on a voyage that would eventually shape the landscape of retail pharmaceuticals. Jack takes us on a personal journey as he shares how his upbringing, marked by resilience and a dedication to education, laid the groundwork for his visionary leadership in the retail pharmaceutical realm. Jack's contributions have not only propelled market presence and share but have also made essential prescriptions and medications accessible to a wider audience. Jack also offers valuable insights into Chemist Warehouse's strategic international expansion plans, highlighting the company's steadfast dedication to both growth and innovation. Moreover, Jack offers insights into the profound importance of leveraging your strategic advantage in any domain throughout your career journey. His wisdom is not just inspiring but practical, providing valuable takeaways for professionals and aspiring leaders alike. Jack and his brother Sam founded Chemist Warehouse in 1972. They initially imported and distributed sunglasses and later expanded to include sunscreens, fragrances, and cosmetics from popular brands like Le Specs, Le Tan, Australis, and Colours of Australia. In 1993, they, along with business partner Mario Verrocchi, launched 35 stores under the My Chemist brand. Their significant milestone came in 2000 with the opening of the first Chemist Warehouse store in Melbourne. Today, the company has over 500 stores across Australia, New Zealand, China, and Ireland, with plans for future global expansion. Please note: this episode was recorded on 19 June 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 119 of the No Limitations podcast Sitting Under the Mango Tree, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jeff Quartermaine, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Perseus Mining Ltd, one of the largest gold mining companies listed in Australia with major mine sites in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Sudan. In an insightful discussion, Jeff opens with his views on the appeal of mining as a career today. He touches on the challenges of managing operations in Africa, such as political risks and civil unrest, as well as making deals with local chiefs under the mango tree. Jeff emphasises the importance of maintaining a social licence to operate and doing good by local communities and other stakeholders. Jeff shares his thoughts on nations, such as Russia, China and the United States, jostling for influence in the region. Jeff also explains his core leadership philosophy, his major achievements at Perseus Mining and the values he looks for in hiring team members. Growing up in Far North Queensland, Jeff discusses the start of his career as an engineer and his rise through the ranks in the mining industry in Australia. Jeff also speaks about a number of other topics including, but not limited to, surviving COVID-19, the virtues of nuclear energy in Australia, and the value he gained from his MBA. Jeff was appointed as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Perseus Mining Ltd in 2013, having previously served as Chief Financial Officer. Early in his career, realising an affinity for the mining industry, Jeff became General Manager at Niugini Mining with operations in Papua New Guinea. After a short tenure in corporate finance, Jeff then moved into his first executive role as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Orogen Minerals Ltd. He was also Chief Financial Officer at MediVac Ltd. More recently, and prior to Perseus Mining, Jeff held further senior roles in the mining industry, including as Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary at Lafayette Mining Ltd and at TriAusmin Ltd respectively. Please note: this episode was recorded on 3 May 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 118 of the No Limitations podcast Hardest Opportunity on Offer, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Kate Munnings, Group Chief Executive Officer of Virtus Health Pty Ltd, a global leader in assisted reproductive services. In a moving conversation, Kate reveals the eye-opening statistic that, in today’s society, one in six couples experience fertility issues. She reflects on her early days as a nurse during the HIV and AIDS epidemic, and how this experience played a pivotal role in shaping her professional path, ultimately leading her to transition into an established law career, followed by senior operations and executive roles at Transfield Services (now Ventia). In this capacity, Kate provides a fascinating insider’s perspective into the world of detention centres and the plight of refugees. She also discusses her experiences at Ramsay Health Care Australia, shedding light on the challenges associated with introducing changes in the healthcare system. Moreover, she reflects on assuming her inaugural Chief Executive Officer position, amidst the unprecedented times of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout her career, Kate learned that a title nor a position are necessary to be a leader, and that the essence of great leadership comprises camaraderie, courage and compassion. Kate was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Virtus Health Pty Ltd in 2020. Prior to this, she was Chief Operating Officer of Ramsay Health Care Australia and earlier was Chief Risk and Legal Officer followed by Chief Executive – Operations at Transfield Services. Kate started her career as a HIV/AIDS nurse at St Vincent’s Hospital before becoming a construction lawyer and Partner at law firms Corrs Chambers Westgarth and Baker McKenzie. Alongside Virtus, Kate is currently Chair of Digital Health Cooperative Research Centres. Kate has also served as a Board Member of South East Sydney Local Health District. Please note: this episode was recorded on 16 May 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 117 of the No Limitations podcast Knowing Your Own Mind, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to the 28th Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon Tony Abbott AC. He was the Member for Warringah in the Australian Parliament from 1994 to 2019. In an open conversation, we unpack Tony’s thoughts on the current state of Australia, its leadership and standing on the world stage. Considering where he sees society heading from the debate in Australia leading up to the referendum and the cost-of-living crisis to the ongoing conflicts overseas and shifts in the power balance, we discuss his concerns for the country and the world at large. Finally, we uncover his thoughts on leadership and how it starts with one’s self. Tony served as Prime Minister for two years following the 2013 Australian federal election. He was the Leader of the Opposition from 2009 to 2013 and also served as a Cabinet Minister during the Howard Government. Currently, Tony is a Director of the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation, serves on the council of the Australian War Memorial, and is an adviser to the UK Board of Trade. He is a patron to several charities, including Soldier On, the International Sports Promotion Society, and the Worldwide Support for Development. In 2020, he was appointed as a Companion of the Order of Australia and in 2022, he was conveyed with the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun. Please note: this episode was recorded on 15 May 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 116 of the No Limitations podcast Leadership Is a Gift, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Alan Beacham, Managing Director of Toll Group, one the largest logistics, transportation and warehousing businesses worldwide. Toll Group was established in Newcastle, Australia in 1888, now has headquarters in Singapore and is expanding throughout the Asia-Pacific region. In an insightful discussion, Alan presents his views on the current geopolitical landscape, especially between China and the United States, and how Toll can best position itself to succeed for another 134 years. He also shares his perspective on cutting-edge innovation in his industry, such as hydrogen trucks, drones in logistics, artificial intelligence and supply chain developments. Finally, Alan reflects on the nature of leadership and cites the importance of inclusion, kindness and responsibility. Alan was appointed Managing Director of Toll Group last year, having previously overseen Global Forwarding, Global Express and Express Parcels respectively. Earlier, Alan had an extended tenure at transportation manufacturing firm UGL in Executive General Manager roles. He started his career as an engineer at Rolls-Royce before moving to Mercedes-Ilmor where they developed engines for the West McLaren Mercedes Formula One team. Alan now sits on the Board of charity Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds, which represents the wellbeing of those in his industry. Alan has also served on the Boards of Metro Trains Melbourne, UGL Unipart, and Naval Ship Management Pty Ltd. Please note: this episode was recorded on 20 April 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 115 of the No Limitations podcast The Spy Who Didn’t Come Home, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with Jack Barksy, a former agent of the KGB, the foreign intelligence and domestic security agency of the Soviet Union. In a fascinating and revealing discussion, Jack shows us both sides of the Iron Curtain as we delve into the world of espionage. We uncover his story from his beginnings as a high-achieving student recruited by the KGB through the East German Stasi, trained in Moscow and eventually inserted into the United States. We hear of his missions, the near misses that risked blowing his cover and the lead up to his fateful encounter with the FBI. Originally from East Germany, Jack was recruited by the KGB as a university student and later infiltrated the United States where he spent ten years spying for the Soviet Union. He severed his relationship with the KGB in 1988 and pursued a corporate career in information technology. He was eventually discovered by the FBI. Today, Jack is an American citizen who is taking advantage of one last chance to live a normal life. In 2017, Jack released a book about his experiences Deep Undercover: My Secret Life and Tangled Allegiances as a KGB Spy in America. He is also the subject of a 12-part podcast series The Agent which was released in 2021. Please note: this episode was recorded on 14 April 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 114 of the No Limitations podcast The Divine Discontent, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks with David Kirk MBE, Co-Founder and Chairman of Bailador Technology Investments and a former Captain of the New Zealand All Blacks. David led the All Blacks to victory in the first Rugby World Cup in 1987. Having gone through a unique journey that has seen him study medicine, lead his country to a world championship, abruptly retire and take up a Rhodes Scholarship, David talks to us about leadership in its varied manifestations as well as the zeal in seeking perfection. Drawing on a wealth of knowledge and experience across sport, politics and business in a multitude of industries, David examines the state of affairs and offers valuable insight into the pertinent matters facing society today. David represented New Zealand in rugby union, having played 17 Tests and served as the side’s Captain on 11 occasions. He is also currently Chairman of Forsyth Barr and KMD Brands as well as not-for-profits KiwiHarvest, the New Zealand Food Network and the Sydney Festival. He is also President of the New Zealand Rugby Players Association. He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Fairfax Media and PMP Ltd as well as Chief Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand. Please note: this episode was recorded on 15 March 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.