The Socius Podcast

In this episode of The Socius Podcast, we sit down with Julian Fayad, Founder and CEO of LoanOptions.ai, to explore how technology is reshaping the way we approach lending and financial decision-making.

Julian shares the vision behind building an AI-driven platform in a complex, highly regulated industry, and the leadership principles that have guided him through the challenges of scaling a fintech business. We discuss the role of ...

In this episode of The Socius Podcast, we’re joined by Celeste Norman, Principal and Founder of Rayne Legal, to unpack how legal and compliance strategy can become a real growth driver for founders, especially in Australia’s highly regulated financial services space.

With deep in-house experience and a unique approach to legal problem-solving, Celeste explains why legal shouldn’t sit on the side-lines. She shares ...

In this unfiltered episode of The Socius Podcast, we sit down with Adrian Araouzou, founder of PAKD Sport and one of the most controversial figures from Married at First Sight Australia. Adrian breaks his silence on the reality behind reality TV, discussing being cast as the MAFS villain, friendship breakdowns, public backlash, and the pressures of a highly public relationship.

Beyond the headlines and social media hate, Adrian off...

In this episode of The Socius Podcast, we speak with Stephen Mitchell, founder of Nexus Advisory, who is helping businesses access fast, flexible, and bank-free financing. Stephen shares his journey from launching startups to becoming a trusted financial adviser for growing companies. He opens up about the lessons he learned the hard way, like the importance of understanding funding options early, and how those experiences now shap...

In this episode of The Socius Podcast, we’re joined by Jose Ramirez, founder of HOPR, the alcohol-free beverage brand redefining what it means to unwind. Born from a blend of athletic discipline, tech know-how, and a drive to do things differently, Jose shares how he turned a personal frustration with drinking culture into a fast-growing brand stocked in over 70 retailers across Australia.

Jose opens up about the gritty reali...

In this episode of The Socius Podcast, we sit down with Calvin Chilchik, National Sales Director and part-owner of CUB - Club of United Business, to unpack what it really takes to succeed in sales, business, and building strong relationships.

We explore the mindset behind confident selling, why repetition builds mastery, and how to pitch without falling into false promises. Calvin shares the three essentials of B2B sales, relentles...

In this episode of The Socius Podcast, we sit down with Esther Colman, Director of Seed HR, a company providing end-to-end HR support for small businesses. Esther shares when businesses should seek HR help, how to approach hiring and onboarding, and why responsive, fractional HR services can be a smart solution when a full-time hire isn’t an option.

She talks about her journey from retail and sales into HR, and how her passio...

In this episode of The Socius Podcast, we sit down with Bonnie-Jean, Naim founder of Beon Media, to talk entrepreneurship, modern marketing, and motherhood.

Bonnie shares how her background in sales led to the launch of her agency- and how she quickly realised that most people don’t fully understand marketing. She breaks down the difference between organic and paid media, how to measure success (hint: it’s not vanity me...

In this episode, we dive into the world of entrepreneurship, authenticity, and building a brand that resonates. Rebecca Klodinsky, founder of The Prestwick Place, shares her insights on the growing popularity of lab-grown diamonds and the importance of educating consumers about the jewellery industry. We discuss Rebecca’s talent in identifying gaps in the market, leading to the launch of her fine jewellery brand with a focus ...

In this episode of the Socius Podcast, we dive into the story of Charlie Viola, Executive Chair, Adviser, and Founding Partner at Viola Private Wealth. From his humble beginnings as a bank teller to overseeing over $2.5 billion in assets for high-net-worth clients, Charlie’s journey is one of ambition, resilience, and a relentless focus on what truly matters: the client.

Charlie shares the secret behind the success of...

Carolina Montanez

Join us as we chat with Carolina Montanez, co-founder of Plane 2 Sea International, an innovative Australian-based logistics company redefining how SMEs manage their freight.

Carolina shares her journey of starting the business with three friends, navigating the balance between business and friendship, and the importance of setting clear boundaries. She explains that they aren’t just selling services...

In this episode of the Socius Podcast, we chat with Jim Fairhall-Dickie, Head of Wealth at Aureus Financial, about the challenges and strategies small to medium businesses face in creating wealth, time, and profit. With over 20 years of experience in financial advice, Jim shares his journey from receptionist to business leader. He discusses the importance of financial planning, managing money, and reverse-engineering goals to drive...

Today, we are joined by George Hanna, founder of HD IT, a Managed IT Services Provider, who dives into the world of cybersecurity and business growth. George has built his business over the past 15 years, focusing on helping business productivity and providing tech support through strong, trust-based relationships.

True to Socius' mission of empowering businesses to thrive through education and collaboration, George shares insights...

This episode of The Socius Podcast, we’re joined by David Sutantyo, owner of Twelve Grains Capital, who shares his journey from owning a café to building a successful commercial lending and mortgage business in Sydney. David talks about the power of mentorship, the importance of automation in scaling businesses, and how to navigate the current challenges in the business world, particularly the risks of overborrowing. W...

In this episode, we're joined by Christopher Melotti, a marketing and business consultant and founder of Melotti Content Media, a dynamic content, copywriting, and marketing agency. Christopher takes us through his journey of building his company while staying profoundly engaged and passionate about every project and client he serves. His insights on balancing growth with genuine care for the work are a must-listen for anyone looki...

In this episode, we’re joined with Peter Ristevski, founder of Invest Plus Accounting, who shares his bold perspective on Australia as an overtaxed nation and critique of trust in the accounting profession.

Peter opens up about his journey, from working at Mark Bouris' firm to founding his own practice, where he’s spent over 25 years specialising in bespoke trust structures that protect assets, minimise taxes, and build...

We sat down with Rebecca Raad, leader of the BNI network across Sydney North West and Penrith regions, to explore her inspiring journey from biochemist to business owner. Rebecca shares how she transitioned from feeling trapped in a science career to building a structured referral network that connects small business owners and fosters meaningful communities.

In this episode, Rebecca reflects on the power of saying “yes&rdquo...

Welcome back to the Socius Podcast where we talk to successful business owners to uncover what drives business growth and success.

In this episode, we sit down with Bob Greenup, Executive Director of BNI Sydney Central - a leading business networking and referral organisation - to explore his extensive leadership experience across various industries.

Bob shares insights from over five decades in business, ...

Welcome to The Socius podcast, where we dive into thought-provoking conversations with business leaders to uncover insights that drive success.

In this episode, we sit down with Claire Styles, the powerhouse behind C Legal & Co — a firm specialising in asset protection, estate litigation, and real estate for entrepreneurs, business owners, high-net-worth individuals, and diverse families.

Claire takes us through her bold transi...