In this episode, Shaun de Vries, founder of Open Pantry Consulting, shares the remarkable story of his diverse career in hospitality — from early success buying his first bakery at just 21, to hard lessons learned through rebuilding his life and business after a life-changing car accident and navigating insolvency.

He reflects on the power of strong business relationships, the importance of being proactive with debt, and how honesty, transparency, and learning from mistakes can turn even the toughest experiences into opportunities for growth.

Today, Shaun has found his calling helping hospitality venues across Australia scale with confidence — specialising in recruitment, operational strategy, and technology integration.

About Open Pantry Co: https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/

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

Naomi Way, Managing Director of Moss & Co Consulting, shares why genuine connection and community are key to attracting top talent. From arriving in Australia as a 20-year-old backpacker to building a career in real estate, recruitment, and launching her RecruitHer podcast - Naomi’s journey is all about people.

Naomi shares how she matches candidates with the right culture, supports working mothers and female leaders, and brings the human element back to hiring in Australia’s relationship-driven market.

Find out more about Moss & Co: https://mossandco.consulting/

More about Recruither: https://recruither.com.au/

Shane and Andrea chat with buyer and vendor advocate Lisa Britcliffe, who specialises in guiding people through property sales and purchases during major life transitions like divorce.

They discuss why empathy and understanding are crucial for professional advisors in these turbulent times, and recognising that assets aren’t just figures on a balance sheet — they often carry deep emotional and nostalgic significance for our clients.

Find out more about Lisa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisabritcliffe/

Find out more about Orium & Co: https://www.oriumandco.com/

Find out more about Aintree Group: https://aintreegroup.com.au/ | @aintreegroup

In this episode, Shane and Andrea speak with leadership and communications strategist, best-selling author, and business consultant Mel Kettle. Mel opens up about her experience with burnout and how it led her to support others in redefining success in a way that protects their wellbeing.

Mel shares practical strategies to help leaders build a career, and a life, that’s both sustainable and fulfilling. She discusses the foundations of Connected Leadership, how to spot the warning signs of burnout, the importance of setting clear boundaries, and why it’s time to let go of the pressure to always “be the good girl.”

Find Mel online at: https://www.melkettle.com/

Order her leadership book Fully Connected: https://www.melkettle.com/store/p/fullyconnectedbook

In this episode, Miles Beamish joins Shane and Andrea to explore how a love of numbers can drive meaningful impact, both professionally and personally.

They unpack the value of finance brokers and accountants working together with clients over the long term, offering consistency and trust, rather than being passed from one client manager to the next at a big bank.

Miles also opens up about the physical challenges he takes on to support causes like Movember, Cancer Council, and Beyond Blue. From 100km charity rides to endurance training, he shares how he breaks down the numbers—pace, time and mindset—to stay on track and push through.

Find out more about Miles & Finlease: https://finlease.com.au/ | https://www.instagram.com/finlease/