Thinking on work that works.
Research-grade articles for owners of Australian small and medium businesses.
What 19 Founders Taught Me About Keeping People
Findings from 19 Australian founders across 15 industries — what they did differently to build workplaces people actually stay in.
How to Know If You’re Solving the Right Problem at Work
When the same problem keeps coming back, you’re solving the wrong one. Here’s how to find the real cause — using tools that actually work.
Why Your Team Doesn’t Take Initiative
When your team waits for instructions instead of acting, the problem isn’t motivation. It’s the system around them. Here’s what to fix.
What Founders Get Wrong About Hiring for Culture Fit
“Culture fit” is the most misused phrase in small business hiring. Here’s what it should actually mean — and how to use it without building an echo chamber.
The Real Reason Small Business Owners Burn Out
Founder burnout isn’t really about hours. Here’s what actually causes it — and what brings the spark back.
Why Your Best People Stop Bringing Ideas
When good employees go quiet, it’s rarely a motivation problem. Here’s the pattern most owners miss — and what brings ideas back.
Why Hard Conversations at Work Go Wrong
Most hard conversations at work fail before they start. Here’s why they get stuck — and what to do differently next time.
The Hidden Cost of Being a ‘Nice’ Boss
Being nice isn’t kindness — it’s avoidance. Here’s what happens when bosses prioritise being liked over being clear, and how to fix it
How to Tell If Your Workplace Culture Is Broken
Workplace culture surveys often lie. Here’s how to read what’s really happening in your team — without sending out a single form.
Quiet Quitting Isn’t Laziness — It’s a Workplace Signal
Quiet quitting isn’t a people problem. It’s a sign your system isn’t supporting them. Here’s what it really means — and how to fix it.
Why Your Best Salesperson May Be Hurting Your Business
High performers can quietly erode trust and collaboration. Here’s why individual “wins” sometimes damage the system your whole team depends on.
Why Hiring Someone New Didn’t Fix The Problem
The new hire was great. Six months in, the same dynamic is back. The problem wasn’t the person — and here’s what was.
Want the underlying frameworks?
The articles draw on six frameworks I work with every week. Here's where they sit.