The Kofkin Bond’s Podcast

252. The Champion’s Mindset: Grant Hackett on Success in Sport and Business

In this week’s Kofkin Bond & Co podcast, Tony sits down with Grant Hackett — CEO of Generation Development Group and former Olympic swimming champion. Grant shares his inspiring journey from world-class athlete to accomplished business leader, revealing how the values of hard work, discipline, and consistency have driven his success in both sport and business.

Hackett reflects on his experiences training alongside top athletes, overcoming major challenges, including a battle with pneumonia before the Athens Olympics, and achieving career-defining moments such as breaking world records and winning Olympic gold. He also opens up about his leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of integrity, accountability, and empowering others to succeed. The conversation explores his competitive mindset, his upbringing, and the powerful life lessons he’s carried from the pool to the boardroom as CEO of Generation Development Group.

251. From Classroom to Comedy: Tyson Popplestone

In this episode on the Kofkin Bond podcast, Tyson Popplestone sits down with Dimi and Tony to explore Tyson's fascinating journey from being a teacher, pastor, and athlete to becoming a comedian. In this episode, Tyson delves into the challenges and triumphs of transitioning between such diverse careers, sharing hilarious anecdotes and profound insights along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of challenging negative thoughts, embracing change, and finding humor in everyday life. With a perfect blend of laughter and heartfelt moments, this episode promises to inspire, entertain, and leave you with valuable life lessons. 

250. A Mother and Son's Obstacle Through Cancer: Sebastian & Natalie Khoury

In this episode of the Kofkin Bond podcast, host Tony Kofkin welcomes Sebastian Khoury and his mother, Natalie Khoury, to discuss their inspiring journey.

Sebastian, a St Bernard's boy, shares his story of overcoming Hodgkin's lymphoma, a battle he faced alongside his mother, who also survived the same cancer. The conversation delves into the emotional and challenging experiences they endured, highlighting the support from their family and the school community. Sebastian's determination and resilience shine through as he talks about his academic achievements and his aspirations to pursue a career in medicine. The episode also touches on the importance of family, the impact of their book, "The Worst/Best Year," and the profound connections they made along the way. This heartfelt and motivational episode is a testament to the strength and perseverance of the human spirit.

249. Foundations of Success: Illan Samuel’s Rise in Property Development

In this episode, Dimi sits down with Illan Samuel, a Melbourne-based property developer, to explore his journey from childhood to industry success. Illan shares how his upbringing in a family of property professionals shaped his path, leading him from a career in valuation to major property developments worth up to $150 million. He opens up about his first project, innovative strategies, and the importance of taking calculated risks. Beyond business, Illan talks about balancing fatherhood, mentoring, and giving back to the community. This episode is a deep dive into resilience, vision, and building a legacy through passion and hard work.

248. Beyond the Finish Line: Michael Roeger’s Journey to Greatness

Michael Roeger, originally from Langhorne Creek in country South Australia, is a five-time Paralympian and one of Australia’s top middle- and long-distance runners. He has dedicated over half his life to professional running and is a two-time Paralympic medalist, winning silver in the 1500m T46 at the Paris 2024 Games.

Michael holds the T46 world records in the 1500m, 5000m, and Marathon, and is the fastest ambulant Paralympian to complete a marathon with a time of 2:18.51. Known for his grit, discipline, and passion for sport, Michael continues to inspire athletes and fans across the country.

247. Financial Literacy and Life Lessons: A Conversation with Dimi Rokkos

Tony introduces Dimi, a new member of the Kofkin Bond team. In this episode of the Kofkin Bond Podcast, Dimi dives into the vital topic of financial literacy, sharing personal insights and experiences that highlight its importance, especially for single parents juggling careers and motherhood.

The episode  touches on Dimi's commitment to volunteering and charity work, including coaching youth basketball and supporting organizations like Helping Hoops and Hoops for Health, which mentor underprivileged children.

This episode is packed with valuable advice on how financial literacy can empower individuals to take control of their finances while fostering personal growth and community involvement.

246. Relentless Pursuit: Chris Christofi's Journey from Sales to Philanthropy

In this episode of the Kofkin Bond podcast, Tony Kofkin sits down with Chris Christofi, CEO and founder of Reventon, to explore his remarkable journey from a young sales enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist. Chris shares personal anecdotes about his Greek Cypriot heritage, early work experiences, and the invaluable lessons learned from his father. The conversation delves into the importance of communication skills, resilience in the face of challenges, and the relentless pursuit of success. Chris also discusses his extensive philanthropic efforts, particularly with Vinnies and the CEO Sleepout, highlighting his commitment to giving back and making a positive impact on society. Tune in to hear Chris's inspiring story and his insights on personal growth, empathy, and the power of giving.

245. Navigating the Corporate World: Tamara Barr on Leadership and ESG

This weeks episode Tony chats with Tamara Barr, founder of CSB Corporate Services. Tamara shares her journey from Melbourne to London, offering insights into corporate governance, the importance of strong leadership, and the evolving landscape of shareholder interests. Discover the role of ESG reporting and the differences between ASX-listed companies, public companies, and not-for-profits. Tune in for an inspiring conversation blending professional expertise with personal stories.

244. Charly's Journey and Cure EB's Mission

In this episode of the Kofkin Bond Podcast, host Tony Kofkin interviews Charly Stone, the CEO of Cure EB. They discuss Charly's journey from the UK to Australia and her transition into the not-for-profit sector. The conversation delves into the challenges of Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare skin disease affecting children, and the efforts Cure EB is making to find a cure. Charly shares insights into the organization's innovative approach to fundraising and the significant progress made in a short time. The episode highlights the resilience of children with EB and the ongoing need for support in the fight against this devastating disease.

243. Maha Sukkar from Victoria Police

Maha joined Victoria Police in 2004 and was the first Muslim Policewoman in Australia to wear a hijab, challenging stereotypes and setting an example for police organisations around the world. 

She is the founder and past president of the Victoria Police Muslim Association (VPMA), the first police association of its kind in Australia and the Asia Pacific Region. She also co-founded and was vice chair of the Victoria Police Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Network, which sits over all religious and cultural networks in Victoria Police. She is also one of the co-founders of the Victoria Police Women of Colour Network (VP WoCN) which is the first of its kind in a policing service. These networks support and advocate for police and advise Victoria Police on community-related matters.

Maha is active on several other committees focussed on the prevention of gendered violence holds a position on the Australasian Council for Women and Policing (ACWAP) Committee and is a board member of SisterWorks which is a grass-roots social enterprise working closely with migrant women to support economic empowerment.

She is currently a Senior Sergeant at the Victoria Police Academy.

Maha is the recipient of numerous awards and is recognised for her positive impact on community safety and policing. 

2007 - Celebrating excellence in the field of contributions to Australian Muslims award

2008 - Lebanese Community Achievers’ Award

2009 - Australian Muslim Woman of The Year

2009 – Excellence in the field of Police and Community Advisory Committee Award

2010 - Australasian Council for Women and Policing Bravery Award

2018 - Inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll for Women for her work in the family violence and forced marriages space across the state and nationwide.

2019 - Awarded the Australian Police Medal (APM) (which sits above the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the Australian Honours schedule)

2019 - Named in The Australian Financial Review 2019 100 Women of Influence

2022 - Awarded the inaugural Australian Professionals of Colour, Corporate Legend of the Year Award.