The Glass Ceiling

A podcast where business leaders share their stories, struggles, and triumphs. We explore the highs and lows of innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership. From founders to CEOs, our guests will share their insights, experiences, and advice on how to succeed and make a lasting impact. Hosted by Marissa Hankinson from Apex Business Advisory.

Listen on:

  • Apple Podcasts
  • Podbean App
  • Spotify
  • Amazon Music
  • iHeartRadio
  • PlayerFM
  • Podchaser
  • BoomPlay

Episodes

4 days ago

In this episode of The Glass Ceiling, Marissa Hankinson speaks with Oliver Ciancio — a mergers and acquisitions specialist helping businesses navigate complex deals, strategic growth, and high-stakes decisions. Oliver shares what really goes on behind closed boardroom doors — from preparing a business for sale to acquiring companies for growth. Whether it’s a family-run business or a major corporate entity, Oliver brings clarity to the high-pressure world of M&A, shedding light on the processes, the pitfalls, and the power of a well-executed deal. This is a must-listen for business owners, investors, and professionals curious about what it takes to scale, sell, or strategically acquire in today’s market.
#TheGlassCeilingPodcast #OliverCiancio #MergersAndAcquisitions #BusinessGrowth #BusinessSale #CorporateAdvisory #ExitStrategy #BusinessValuation #StrategicPlanning #ScaleYourBusiness #WavebreakerProductions
Produced by www.wavebreakerproductions.com

Friday May 02, 2025

In this episode of The Glass Ceiling, Marissa Hankinson speaks with George Belpario, the founder of Fasta Pastaone of South Australia’s most recognisable hospitality success stories.
George shares how he turned one humble pasta restaurant into a multi-location operation across the state. From the early days of hands-on hustle to navigating the challenges of growth in a dynamic industry, this episode explores what it takes to build a business with staying power.
A must-listen for founders, food entrepreneurs, and anyone fascinated by the journey from local beginnings to household name.Produced by Wavebreaker Productions
#TheGlassCeilingPodcast #GeorgeBelpario #FastaPasta #SouthAustralianBusiness #HospitalityLeadership #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurJourney #AdelaideBusiness #LocalSuccessStory #WavebreakerProductions #ItalianFood 
 

Friday Apr 25, 2025

In this episode of The Glass Ceiling, host Marissa Hankinson sits down with Cassie Day, a seasoned entrepreneur, business leader, and dedicated carer. Cassie shares her journey of building a purpose-driven business while juggling the demands of family life, being a carer, and maintaining her own wellbeing.
Through candid reflections, she discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the realities of balancing professional ambition with personal responsibilities, and the strategies that have helped her navigate it all. From overcoming setbacks to fostering resilience, Cassie offers invaluable insights for business leaders, working parents, and carers striving to create success on their own terms.
Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about leadership, perseverance, and the importance of self-care in the fast-paced world of business.
 
Produced by Wavebreaker Productions
 
#Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #BusinessLeadership #StartupSuccess #FemaleFounder #WorkLifeBalance #CaregiverLife #LeadershipDevelopment #WorkplaceWellbeing #TheGlassCeiling #WavebreakerProductions

Thursday Mar 27, 2025

Join Marissa and Drew Knowles as they explore the intersection of human behavior, AI, and personal growth. From understanding the impact of technology on human behavior to leveraging AI for augmentation, not replacement, this conversation delves into the future of work and life.

Thursday Mar 20, 2025

Meet Sam Quist, the entrepreneur bringing pickleball to Australia and making a difference in the sports industry. With a family legacy in tennis and a passion for innovation, Sam is manufacturing equipment and apparel for the fast-growing sport while working with schools to promote its inclusive benefits. Tune in for an insightful conversation on turning a vision into reality, the power of family influence, and the future of sports for all.

Thursday Jan 23, 2025


Join us for a powerful conversation with Ben Howard, founder of Monopoly Property Group. Ben shares his personal story of overcoming adversity, including the impact of family suicide and the loss of loved ones. Despite these challenges, Ben has cultivated a mindset of success and a drive to live life to the fullest.
 
In this episode, Ben opens up about:
The emotional journey of coping with family suicide and loss
How he's harnessed his grief into a hidden drive for success
His mindset and strategies for achieving goals and proving others wrong
The importance of living life to the max and making the most of every moment
How he's built a successful business and created a legacy
Don't miss this inspiring episode with Ben Howard, a true champion of resilience, determination, and the human spirit!
 
Produced by Wavebreaker Content Warning: This episode discusses themes of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a trusted support service or call Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14.

Friday Jan 10, 2025


Join us for an inspiring conversation with Julie Height, a commercial lawyer who embarked on an extraordinary adventure with her family, sailing around Australia and Indonesia for two years during COVID. While navigating the challenges of homeschooling and life on the water, Julie also founded her own business!
 
In this episode, Julie shares:
Her family's incredible journey and the lessons learned along the way
How she balanced homeschooling, entrepreneurship, and life on a sailboat
The challenges and triumphs of building a business during COVID
Her experiences as a woman in law and entrepreneurship
How she's now growing her business and enjoying life on land, with a newfound passion for hiking
 
Don't miss this remarkable episode with Julie Height, a true champion of resilience, adaptability, and determination!
 
Produced by Wavebreaker 

Thursday Dec 12, 2024

Join us for a insightful conversation with Samantha Boardman, a renowned spending expert who's helped countless individuals and families manage their finances effectively. Samantha shares her unique approach to money management, emphasising that it's not about how much you earn, but how you manage it.
 
In this episode, Samantha dives into:
Her personal journey and how she became a spending expert
The common mistakes people make with their finances, regardless of income
Her proven process for taking control of your spending and staying on track
How she's helped people from all walks of life, from those on Centrelink benefits to six-figure earners
Her top tips for maximizing your money and achieving financial freedom
Don't miss this informative episode with Samantha Boardman, a true champion of financial literacy and empowerment!
 
Produced by Wavebreaker

Thursday Dec 05, 2024

Join us for an inspiring conversation with James Begley, founder of PickStar and former AFL player. James shares his raw and relatable journey of struggling to find his purpose after retiring from professional sports. He opens up about the challenges he faced, from feeling lost to finding his niche and building a successful business.
 
In this episode, James dives into:
His transition from professional sports to entrepreneurship
The struggles of finding his identity and purpose after sports
How he overcame financial challenges, including paying wages on his credit card
His passion for supporting others in similar situations through PickStar
Recent acquisitions and future plans for the business
Don't miss this heartfelt episode with James Begley, a true champion of resilience, determination, and innovation!
 
Produced by Wavebreaker 

Thursday Nov 14, 2024


Join us for an enlightening conversation with Sarah Reimann, a keynote speaker, virtual CFO, and strategic business advisor. Sarah shares her expertise on the importance of understanding your financial landscape as a business owner and how a virtual CFO can help you drive growth and success.
In this episode, Sarah dives into:
 
The critical role of financial literacy in business decision-makingHow to unlock the full potential of your financial dataThe benefits of partnering with a virtual CFO for strategic guidancePractical tips for managing cash flow, debtors, and business relationshipsAnd many more valuable insights to empower your business journey!
 
Don't miss this informative episode with Sarah Reimann, a true champion of financial empowerment for business owners!

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