Retail Therapy

Grilling greatness with Angus McDonald

Join us as we dive into the world of retail leadership with Angus McDonald, the CEO of Barbeques Galore. With over 25 years of retail experience, Angus has a wealth of knowledge and insights to share. In this special episode, we’ll explore his remarkable career journey, from his humble beginnings as a schoolboy working casual shifts at supermarkets to leading one of Australia’s most iconic brands.
Highlights of the episode:
Discover how Angus's early retail experiences have shaped his leadership style and approach at Barbeques Galore
The core principles guiding his strategic decisions and the transformative changes under his leadership
Angus's leadership philosophy and how he motivates his team to achieve excellence
Gain insights into the innovations and trends that will shape the future of the retail sector, especially in outdoor living and entertainment
Understand the core beliefs and philosophies that influence Angus's management style
Angus shares his vision and aspirations for the future of Barbeques Galore
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of Australia’s most respected business leaders. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a seasoned professional, or simply interested in the retail industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights and advice.
To learn more about what we do at the ARA, head to retail.org.au.  
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

From strategy to storefront with Natalie Davis

Our next guest on Retail Therapy, focusing on leadership is Natalie Davis, Managing Director at Woolworths Supermarkets. 
Natalie Davis brings a wealth of experience to her role as Managing Director of Woolworths Supermarkets, a position she has held since October 2020. Her impressive career includes various senior positions within Woolworths, and a notable tenure as a Partner at McKinsey, where she spent 15 years advising on strategy and commercial transformation in the UK and Australia.
This episode explores: 
Insight into Natalie’s career trajectory and rise to the Managing Director role at Woolworths Supermarkets
How Natalie navigates Woolworths Supermarkets through periods of significant change and uncertainty in the fast-paced retail sector
Methods for staying responsive to customer needs and maintaining a customer-centric focus
Importance of diversity in leadership and the integration of inclusion in leadership strategy
Strategies for keeping Woolworths competitive in a rapidly changing and highly competitive market
Words of wisdom for future leaders and key takeaways for leadership success
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Natalie Davis as we explore her remarkable journey and gain valuable insights into the world of retail leadership. Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a retail professional, or simply interested in the dynamics of leading a major corporation, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice.
To learn more about what we do at the ARA, head to retail.org.au.  
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Leading through change with John King

Joining us today on Retail Therapy to kick off Season 7 is John King, the outgoing CEO of Myer. 
John has been instrumental in revitalising Myer, steering the company through strategic transformations with his extensive background in retail management. 
With over 30 years of experience in the retail industry, John has brought a wealth of knowledge and a renewed focus on customer service and digital integration to one of Australia's most iconic department stores.
In this episode, ARA CEO Paul Zahra and John discuss:
John's global career journey 
Driving change at Myer
The importance of team diversity
Maintaining morale during uncertainty 
Cultivating work-life balance at the CEO level
The role of mentorship broadly within the team
John's legacy and the best leadership advice he's received 
To learn more about what we do at the ARA, head to retail.org.au.  
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Season 7 Trailer: Leadership

Welcome to Season 7 of Retail Therapy.  
This season ARA CEO Paul Zahra will be chatting with a fantastic line-up of retail leaders, including the CEOs of some of Australia’s biggest and most recognisable brands.  
We’ll be learning about their career journey, what defines their leadership style and what got them, and keeps them, at the top of their game.  
You won’t want to miss out on the wisdom, insights and stories that our guests will share. To be the first to know when we’ve released a new episode, make sure you follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your favourite shows.  
To learn more about what we do at the ARA, head to retail.org.au.  
Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.
 

Age diversity in focus with Dr Ginni Mansberg

We're excited to announce that our final guest for Season Six of Retail Therapy is Dr. Ginni Mansberg, the founder of the science-based skincare line Evidence Skincare (ESK) and author of the bestselling book The M Word: How to Thrive in Menopause. Dr. Mansberg is a highly respected GP, TV presenter, podcaster, author, and columnist, specialising in women's health, menopause, and all things skin. 
In this episode, ARA CEO Paul Zahra and Dr Manserg discuss: 
Ginni's inspiring 30-year career journey as a doctor and her passion for what she does 
The unique needs of women experiencing menopause and how to effectively address them
The significance of positive representation of aging women in advertising and marketing
The pivotal role of women aged 50+ as key decision-makers in households
Strategies to support menopausal women in the workforce and help them maintain their careers
The loyalty of women in their 50s and 60s as customers compared to other age groups
Tune in for an insightful conversation on empowering women through all stages of life and the importance of recognising their contributions. 
Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy.
Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.
 

Fostering Indigenous business growth with Kate Russell

Our next guest on Retail Therapy is Kate Russell (she/her), CEO of Supply Nation, Australia's foremost advocate for supplier diversity.
 
Kate brings a wealth of experience, including roles in the public sector and as a Board Director at the Diversity Council of Australia. As a proud Awabakal woman, she holds a deep commitment to supporting Indigenous businesses and advancing economic empowerment within Indigenous communities.
 
At Supply Nation, Kate has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of First Nations businesses, contributing to the vibrant Indigenous business community in Australia.
 
This episode with Kate explores:
Moving forward after The Voice referendum
Kate's journey and inspiration to lead Supply Nation
Success stories from Supply Nation connections
Barriers faced by Indigenous companies and strategies to overcome them
How to create opportunities for Indigenous peoples in public and community sectors
The evolving landscape of diversity and inclusion in Australian businesses and society
The role of the Australian retail industry in supporting Indigenous businesses
Advice for meaningful engagement with and support of Indigenous suppliers
Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy.
Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Championing change with Angel Dixon

Our next guest on Retail Therapy is Angel Dixon OAM, a passionate activist for disability inclusion and human rights.
Angel is a two-time international Mercedes Benz Fashion Week model. In 2017 Angel became the first agency-signed model with a physical impairment to feature in a national television campaign.  
Since then, she has used her profile to create positive changes towards community attitude, serving as CEO and Board Member at the Attitude Foundation. She was named 2019 Queensland Young Australian of the Year and has received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her work. 
This episode explores: 
Angel's journey as a person with a physical impairment
Breaking barriers in the modelling industry 
Advocacy for body positivity and inclusivity
Insights for individuals encountering obstacles in their careers or daily lives due to disabilities
Areas where society still lacks inclusivity and what can be done to address them
Inclusivity in retail and the common challenges in making retail spaces more inclusive
Common misconceptions about disability and strategies for combating them
Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy.
Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Designing for all with Manisha Amin

In this episode of Retail Therapy, we hear from Manisha Amin (she/her), CEO of the Centre for Inclusive Design. Manisha's dedication to innovation and social change has made her a pivotal figure in the realm of inclusivity. With expertise in strategic marketing, communication, and cultural transformation, Manisha illuminates the path toward creating products, services, and policies that truly embrace inclusivity. A thought leader renowned for her ability to think from the edge, Manisha brings a wealth of insights to this episode. 
Throughout this episode, we delve into:
Definition and context of inclusive design
Manisha's journey to championing inclusive design
Examples where retail excels, and the areas that need improvement
Retail initiatives for neurodivergent customers
Advice for retail leaders on DE&I
Strategies for small businesses on inclusivity
Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy.
Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Trailblazing for change with Mariam Veiszadeh

In this episode of Retail Therapy, we are honoured to welcome Mariam Veiszadeh, CEO of Media Diversity Australia. A trailblazing figure in human rights advocacy, law, authorship, and media commentary, Mariam has left an indelible mark in the fight against racism and xenophobia. Renowned for founding the Islamophobia Register Australia, Mariam's endeavours have earned her recognition, including the esteemed Fairfax Daily Life 2016 Woman of the Year accolade, for her profound impact on fostering positive change in workplaces and society.
In this episode, we cover:
Mariam's journey from law to becoming a leading anti-racism campaigner
Personal experiences with racism and Islamophobia as catalysts for advocacy
Founding the Islamophobia Register Australia and earning accolades for fostering positive change
Leveraging skills and platforms to combat systemic discrimination
Intersectionality of identity and its impact on advocacy
Inspiring listeners to confront injustice and drive positive change
Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy.
Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

From refugee to role model with Anyier Yuol

Our next guest, Anyier Yuol, is not only an entrepreneur but also a catalyst for social change. With a strong commitment to making a difference, Anyier is the visionary behind Miss Sahara, an initiative for Lead Beyond Education (LBE) charity, as well as the founder and CEO of Anyier Model Management. Her advocacy spans a multitude of causes, including women's and girls' rights, refugee and gender equality, sport for development, and amplifying the representation of minority groups within Australia's sports, beauty, and fashion sectors.
Through her unwavering dedication, Anyier has carved out a platform where young voices can resonate for impactful change. Notably, her remarkable efforts garnered recognition, culminating in the prestigious 2023 Australia for UNHCR – SBS Les Murray Award for Refugee Recognition, celebrating her diverse achievements across sports, women's empowerment, and refugee advocacy.
In this episode, we delve into:
Anyier's journey as a South Sudanese refugee
Insightful perspectives on diversity and inclusion stemming from her refugee experience
Identifying critical needs for refugees in their new homeland
Advocacy initiatives focusing on diversity and refugee rights
Unpacking the pivotal role of the retail sector in fostering inclusivity as the largest private employer
Navigating genuine communication of diversity commitments
Addressing diversity barriers within the fashion industry and strategies for fostering inclusivity
Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy.
Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html
ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.