The History of the Australian Startup Ecosystem - Interview Series

Let's go back to day one, where this story begins...

In 'The History of the Australian Startup Ecosystem' podcast, join host Adam Spencer as they delve into the fascinating history of the Australian startup ecosystem. From the earliest tech companies to the success stories of today, this series covers it all.

Each episode will feature interviews with industry pioneers, entrepreneurs, and experts, as well as a deep dive into the events and cultural shifts that have shaped the Australian startup scene. From the dot-com boom to the rise of fintech, this podcast will provide a unique and informative look at the past, present, and future of the Australian startup ecosystem.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out in the world of startups, this podcast is sure to provide valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in to 'The History of the Australian Startup Ecosystem' to learn more about the trailblazers who have paved the way for today's innovators.

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The History of the Australian Startup Ecosystem - Interview Series

Phil Hayes-St Clair: “Take care of yourself”

Phil Hayes-St Clair is co-founder and CEO of Drop Bio, a digital health company with a mission of accelerating the world’s transition to personalised health by increasing consumers and clinicians’ access to data. Phil is also Adjunct Associate Professor at UNSW, and has worked with many startups over the years in roles including co-founder and board member. In his discussion with Adam, Phil discusses how his very first introduction to the entrepreneurial world was with a business he helped start at 7 years old, as well as his advice to founders that they should “look after themselves”.

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Published 1454 days ago

Phil Hayes-St Clair: “Take care of yourself”

Rachael Neumann explores the effects of the pandemic on startups

Pete Cooper discusses Universities’ role in the ecosystem

Anna Wright: why “fail fast” is the greatest advice

Chad Renando talks definitions of a strong ecosystem

Brendan Hill examines the war on talent in Australia

Lucinda Hartley discusses the barriers she overcame when starting out

Baden U’Ren on the importance of teaching our youth entrepreneurship

Daniel Flynn explains why leaders are learners

Aaron Birkby discusses the gaps in the Australian startup ecosystem

Malcolm Turnbull discusses innovation in the political sphere

Jodie Fox highlights the contrasts between the Australian and US Ecosystems

James Alexander shares his thoughts on Governments’ roles in startups

Susan Oliver discusses what investors look for in a founder

Phil Morle explains the struggles that incubators often face

Silvia Pfeiffer discusses her first startup and the lessons it taught her

Murray Hurps discusses the barriers to growth in the startup ecosystem

Rachel Yang explores diversity and social issues

Nicole O’Brien: The startup ecosystem is overwhelmingly positive

Dean McEvoy on egos and startups

Georgie Turner discusses the next steps for Australia’s ecosystem

Colin Kinner discusses the key missteps first time founders often make

Alan Jones: Can we talk about smartphones?

Paul Bassat examines the evolution of the ecosystem

Melissa Widner discusses the huge progress of startups

Hamish Hawthorn discusses the evolution of the ecosystem

Peta Ellis on the importance of innovation

Alfred Lo compares startup ecosystems in different nations

Sarah Pearson on the importance of cooperation and competition

Michael Batko discusses the four prevalent business models of accelerators

Julie Trell discusses the importance of diversity

Peter Davison: All it takes is guts and a vision

Maxine Sherrin discusses the importance of building a community of innovators

Cameron Adams on the importance of community and connection

Lauren Capelin and the importance of nurturing diversity

Bruce Tulloch on some of the key challenges the Australian startup ecosystem faces

Kate Cornick on ways to support Australians to begin their startup journey

Cheryl Mack on building communities and her passion for supporting founders

Niki Scevak is optimistic about Australia’s future

Yolanda Redrup discusses some of the catalysts for the huge growth the startup ecosystem has seen

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Day One® exists to help founders and startup operators make better business decisions more often

Subscribe for helpful content from other successful founders, operators and investors

Join 755 other founders & investors receiving our emails. They're cool, are you? :)

* Regrettably, mel@canva.com is not on our list… yet.

Day One® is a registered trademark of W2D1 Media Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. © 2026 W2D1 Media Pty Ltd.