Episode 10: Lynda McAlary-Smith

Season 2, Episode 10: Entrepreneurial spirit, the SMB superpower

Join us for some Retail Therapy in the Amex Lounge with Lynda McAlary-Smith, Victorian Small Business Commissioner. Her role supports the 644,000 small businesses to resolve disputes as well as providing advice, advocacy and education. No matter where your business is located, Lynda’s words will resonate.

Once having worked in the public service at both state and federal levels, including her time as the acting Deputy Fair Work Ombudsman, Lynda knows her stuff when it comes to addressing all things small business. She’s incredibly passionate and committed to representing their voice into government, ensuring the real life experience of SMBs is represented.

Starting her new role during Melbourne’s sixth lockdown was challenging she admits, given what she small businesses dealt with. Now, she sees the many innovations and entrepreneurial spirit of this community continuing on and is more passionate than ever to empower business owners.

Lynda chats with ARA CEO and podcast host Paul Zahra to discuss:

  • What it’s like starting a new role during lockdown
  • The many lessons and opportunities
  • The tenancy relief scheme
  • Impressive innovations retained post-Covid
  • A frontline opinion of Melbourne’s CBD future
  • Consumer driven sustainability and diversity changes
  • Priorities for the Commission moving forward

Season 2: Trailer

We are thrilled to announce that Season two of the ARA’s Retail Therapy podcast is launching next week. This season, we’re looking at small business. Small business is big business. 95% of our members are small to medium businesses – the backbone of the Australian economy – and we are proud to represent the interests of these businesses.

Listen now

Episode 1: Steve Plarre

We’re kicking off Season two of the Retail Therapy podcast with this fantastic chat with Steve Plarre,  CEO of Ferguson Plarre Bakehouses, an award-winning family business with a proud history dating back over 110 years. Ferguson Plarre is an iconic business, famous for its cakes, pasties and pies and a great case study for small business success.

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Episode 2: Amanda Rose

Did you know that about 38% of small businesses in Australia are owned by women?  

In this episode of Retail Therapy ARA CEO Paul Zahra speaks with Amanda Rose, a powerful advocate for women in business. Amanda is the Founding Director of Western Sydney Women and Founder & CEO of Small Business Women Australia. 

Listen now

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