Q&A with S&A

Hosted by Aintree Group | Q&A with S&A

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Aug 2026

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Interviews with interesting people and industry experts. Q&A with S&A features the founders of Aintree Group, husband and wife team Shane and Andrea McKenna, in candid conversations with a diverse mix of guests – from business owners and industry leaders to athletes, creatives, and changemakers. They explore real-life experiences, from the challenges of running a business to navigating personal crossroads and following unconventional paths to success. You’ll hear authentic stories, thoughtful insights, and practical takeaways – all delivered with warmth and curiosity. It’s a must-listen for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone who values purpose-driven conversations. New episodes released fortnightly.

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60 recent

August 23, 202656 min

Building Better Leaders Through Authenticity with Tracey Waring

Building Better Leaders Through Authenticity with Tracey Waring What does it take to build a successful career, lead with authenticity, and know when it's time to reinvent yourself? In this episode of Q&A with S&A, Andrea and Shane sit down with Tracey Waring, former EY Partner, leadership mentor, and keynote speaker. After a 32-year career at one of the world's largest professional services firms, Tracy shares the lessons she's learned about leadership, personal growth, career evolution, and the power of genuine human connection. Growing up on a farm in rural Victoria before becoming a global leader at EY, Tracey's journey is filled with insights on resilience, self-awareness, mentoring others, and navigating change. She discusses why careers are no longer linear, the importance of curiosity in an AI-driven world, and how authentic leadership can help individuals and organisations thrive. Whether you're early in your career, leading a team, or considering your own next chapter, this episode offers practical wisdom and shows that building a meaningful career and life is only one conversation away. Connect with Tracey Waring: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traceywaring Website: https://traceywaring.com.au Tracey's newsletter 'One Conversation Away': https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/one-conversation-away-7444275804303306754/ General Advice Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, taxation, legal, or other professional advice. Before making any financial or business decisions, you should seek advice from a qualified professional who considers your personal circumstances. Aintree Group and its representatives disclaim all liability arising from reliance on the information contained in this episode.

August 9, 202644 min

Building a Family for Australia's Most Vulnerable Youth with Susan Barton (OAM)

Building a Family for Australia's Most Vulnerable Youth with Susan Barton (OAM) Susan Barton (OAM) is the founder of Lighthouse Foundation and one of Australia's most respected advocates for children and young people experiencing homelessness. In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Q&A with S&A, Andrea and Shane sit down with Susan to discuss the remarkable journey that led her to establish Lighthouse Foundation more than 35 years ago. From a life-changing experience in Sri Lanka that reshaped her perspective forever, to building an organisation that has helped more than 1,500 young people find safety, stability and belonging, Susan shares the story behind one of Australia's most impactful charitable organisations. The conversation explores the realities of youth homelessness, the importance of relationships over transactions, and why community involvement is critical in helping vulnerable young people not just survive, but thrive. Susan also shares inspiring stories of resilience, hope and transformation, highlighting the profound difference that even the smallest acts of kindness can make. Whether you're passionate about creating positive change, interested in the challenges facing young Australians, or simply looking to hear an extraordinary story of compassion and purpose, this is an episode you won't want to miss. To learn more about Lighthouse Foundation or to get involved, visit: https://lighthousefoundation.org.au/ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions relating to homelessness, family violence, child abuse, trauma, foster care, and mental health. Some listeners may find these themes distressing. Please take care while listening and seek support if needed. If you or someone you know requires support, the following services are available in Australia: Lifeline Australia (24/7 Crisis Support) 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 https://www.beyondblue.org.au Kids Helpline (for young people aged 5–25) 1800 55 1800 https://kidshelpline.com.au 1800RESPECT (Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Support) 1800 737 732 https://www.1800respect.org.au Homelessness Australia https://homelessnessaustralia.org.au Lighthouse Foundation https://lighthousefoundation.org.au

July 26, 202642 min

The Future of IT & Business Technology with Matt Sutherland

The Future of IT & Business Technology with Matt Sutherland Technology is evolving at an incredible pace, but how can business owners keep up without getting left behind? In this episode of Q&A with S&A, Andrea and Shane sit down with Matt Sutherland, Founder and Managing Director of QAMBA, to unpack what today's rapidly changing technology landscape means for small and medium-sized businesses. From managed IT and cyber security to AI tools, Microsoft vs Google, cloud technology and the rise of AI agents, Matt shares practical insights into where businesses should focus their time, money and attention. The conversation also explores how the right technology partner can help businesses make smarter decisions, reduce risk and embrace innovation without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you're just starting your business or looking to modernise the way your team works, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you make more confident technology decisions. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the future of business technology, AI, and building systems that support sustainable business growth. Connect with Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/it-support-melbourne/ Check out QAMBA: https://qamba.com.au/ General Advice Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, taxation, legal, or other professional advice. Before making any financial or business decisions, you should seek advice from a qualified professional who considers your personal circumstances. Aintree Group and its representatives disclaim all liability arising from reliance on the information contained in this episode.

July 12, 202639 min

ENCORE: Redefining Success to Prevent Burnout with Mel Kettle

ENCORE: Redefining Success to Prevent Burnout with Mel Kettle This week we’re revisiting our episode with leadership and communication 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 General Advice Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, taxation, business, or other professional advice. Please seek advice from a suitably qualified professional before acting on any information discussed. Aintree Group and featured podcast guests accept no liability for any actions taken based on this content.

June 28, 202633 min

Creating Connections That Matter with Chelsea Scarlett

Creating Connections That Matter with Chelsea Scarlett This week on Q&A with S&A, the tables are turned as Aintree Group's Marketing & Communications Manager, Chelsea Scarlett, steps out from behind the camera and into the guest chair. Having spent nearly a decade helping shape Aintree Group's brand, communications, events, podcasts, websites, social media presence, and client engagement strategies, Chelsea shares her journey from a part-time marketing coordinator to leading a growing marketing team within one of Melbourne's fastest-growing professional services firms. Chelsea shares her insights on how marketing has evolved over the past decade, why social media is essential for modern businesses, the importance of authentic personal branding, and how businesses can connect with both clients and future team members through effective communication. Chelsea also discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of marketing in professional services, the career lessons she's learned along the way, and how a chance encounter with Bollywood dance classes sparked a passion that has become a defining part of her life outside the office. Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes in a growing business, this episode offers valuable insights into communication, adaptability, and the building of meaningful connections. Find out more about Aintree Group: Website : https://aintreegroup.com.au/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/aintreegroup/ Find out more about Bindaas Bollywood: Website : https://bindaasbollywood.com.au/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bindaasbollywood_dancecompany/ General Advice Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, taxation, legal, or other professional advice. Before making any financial or business decisions, you should seek advice from a qualified professional who considers your personal circumstances. Aintree Group and its representatives disclaim all liability arising from reliance on the information contained in this episode.

June 14, 202644 min

War & Peace, Warhammer & A Lifelong Love of Learning with Richard Lyons

In this episode, we get to know Richard Lyons, who recently joined the team after completing his Bachelor's degrees in Accounting and Law, a journey he began in the early 2000s before taking a long hiatus working in hospitality. They explore what it means to have a lifelong thirst for knowledge, the instinct to constantly ask “why?”, and how platforms like audiobooks and YouTube have become powerful tools for self-education. Richard and Shane also defend the supposedly “dry” careers of Accounting and Law, reframing the work as complex, engaging problem-solving in action. From Roman aqueducts to the origins of the English language, and even how Australia’s Commonwealth foundations may have shaped a very different political path to America, this episode is packed with insight, curiosity, and plenty of fascinating trivia. See more from Aintree Group: https://aintreegroup.com.au/ | @aintreegroup General Advice Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, taxation, business, or other professional advice. Please seek advice from a suitably qualified professional before acting on any information discussed. Aintree Group and featured podcast guests accept no liability for any actions taken based on this content.

May 31, 202652 min

The Business of Leadership with Brent Szalay & Josh Vanderloo

The Business of Leadership with Brent Szalay & Josh Vanderloo In this episode of Q&A with S&A , Andrea sits down with Brent Szalay and Josh Vanderloo from Leaders In Business, to unpack the evolving world of business advisory, leadership and what accountants can learn from elite sport. From a chance friendship formed through their kids’ sporting teams to building a fast-growing advisory platform together, Brent and Josh share how their backgrounds in accounting, AFL strategy and leadership helped shape a completely different approach to supporting business owners. The conversation dives deep into the parallels between sport and business, the importance of accountability and human connection, and why so many business owners are craving more than just tax and compliance support from their accountants. They also explore the growing need for strategic advisory in small businesses, how trust and community drive better outcomes, and why the future of accounting is about asking better questions, not just crunching numbers. Whether you’re a business owner, advisor or someone trying to build a stronger team and clearer vision, this episode is packed with practical insights around leadership, strategy and creating meaningful impact through business. Find out more about Leaders in Business: Website: https://leadersinbusiness.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/leaders-in-business/ Connect with Brent: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentszalay Connect with Josh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-vanderloo-83550542 General Advice Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, taxation, business, or other professional advice. Please seek advice from a suitably qualified professional before acting on any information discussed. Aintree Group and featured podcast guests accept no liability for any actions taken based on this content.

May 17, 202638 min

The Little Things That Make a Big Difference with Jane Stewart

The Little Things That Make a Big Difference with Jane Stewart In this episode of Q&A with S&A, Shane and Andrea sit down with Jane Stewart, co-founder of It’s the Little Things Community, a Melbourne-based organisation dedicated to providing home-style meals and acts of kindness to vulnerable people across the community. Jane shares the inspiration behind starting the organisation, the power of community connection, and how simple acts of kindness can have a life-changing impact on people experiencing hardship. From supporting women and children escaping domestic violence to helping families with seriously ill children and those experiencing homelessness, Jane opens up about the mission driving It’s the Little Things Community and the incredible network of volunteers, schools and businesses helping make it all possible. This conversation is a powerful reminder that meaningful change doesn’t always come from grand gestures; sometimes it starts with the little things. Find out more about Jane, and It’s the Little Things Community: Connect with Jane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-stewart-1467bb9a/ More from It’s the Little Things Community: It’s the Little Things Community Website: https://www.itsthelittlethingscommunity.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itltcommunity/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/it-s-the-little-things-community/ General Advice Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, taxation, business, or other professional advice. Please seek advice from a suitably qualified professional before acting on any information discussed. Aintree Group and featured podcast guests accept no liability for any actions taken based on this content.

May 3, 202640 min

Choosing Peace While Building a Busy Life with Alex Baldock

Choosing Peace While Building a Busy Life with Alex Baldock Pilates and yoga instructor, business owner, client manager and all-round time-management extraordinaire Alex Baldock joins S&A for a conversation about building a busy life that still prioritises peace. Alex shares her journey from Adelaide to Milan, to the UK, and eventually to Melbourne, reflecting on how travel and expat life shaped her future. She shares how she found the love of her life overseas, forged a new career path during the pandemic, and the experiences that changed the way she approaches work and wellbeing. Co-founder of her studio Club Bend, Alex talks about balancing multiple roles while still remembering to make space for herself. She also discusses why the world of Pilates and wellness doesn’t always need to be as intimidating, curated or serious as it can sometimes appear online. Alex also shares a simple affirmation that helps bring her back to calm in the middle of a busy life. Find out more about Alex and Club Bend: Connect with Alex: https://www.instagram.com/alexbaldock/ More from Club Bend: https://www.instagram.com/clubbend/https://www.club-bend.com/ General Advice Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, taxation, business, or other professional advice. Please seek advice from a suitably qualified professional before acting on any information discussed. Aintree Group and featured podcast guests accept no liability for any actions taken based on this content.

April 19, 202649 min

In Defence of HR: Insights from an Expert with Nick Gearen

In this episode of Q&A with S&A, Shane and Andrea sit down with Melbourne-based HR specialist Nick Gearen to explore what really goes on behind the scenes in the world of human resources. Nick shares his journey into HR, unpacking the realities of the profession and how it differs from common perceptions. From managing workplace challenges to building strong team cultures, he offers practical insights into the role HR plays in shaping successful businesses. The conversation also dives into career development, navigating difficult conversations, fostering positive workplace environments, and why strong people management is at the core of every thriving organisation. Connect with Nick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickgearen/ Check out SHIFT HR: https://www.shifthr.com.au General Advice Disclaimer: The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, taxation, business, or other professional advice. Please seek advice from a suitably qualified professional before acting on any information discussed. Aintree Group and featured podcast guests accept no liability for any actions taken based on this content.