Network Success: Northside Notables
Welcome to "Networking Success: Northside Notables," a podcast dedicated to showcasing the remarkable success stories and valuable business insights from high-performing members of BNI Melbourne's North and Inner-West.
Hosted by Lisa Thomas, the Regional Director of BNI Melbourne's North and Inner-West, this podcast provides a platform for local entrepreneurs and business leaders to share their journeys, achievements, and expert advice.
Each 30-minute episode features an in-depth conversation with a different notable business owner from the BNI community. Our guests discuss their backgrounds, the unique aspects of their businesses, and the milestones they've achieved. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the challenges they've faced, the strategies they've employed, and the role that BNI has played in their business growth.
Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a budding business owner, or simply interested in the stories of local business leaders, "Networking Success: Northside Notables" offers inspiration, practical advice, and a deeper understanding of the power of networking.
Join us as we celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit, uncover the secrets to success, and explore the dynamic business landscape of Melbourne's North and Inner-West. Tune in to connect, learn, and grow with us!
Network Success: Northside Notables
Smarter Connections: Hamish Jones on AI-Powered Telecom, Community & 20 Years of Tech Wins
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
In this episode of Network Success: Northside Notables, host Lisa Thomas welcomes Hamish Jones, founder of Best Business Deals, a Moonee Valley–based telecommunications provider helping small businesses get the right phone systems, NBN and mobile plans—then leverage automation and AI for a competitive edge.
With two decades in tech, Hamish explains why “better technology makes better businesses,” but only when it fits real-world workflows. He shares:
- How AI tools like ChatGPT, automated CRMs and workflow integrations now shape every decision in his own company
- Simple, low-cost automations any SME can adopt this week to save hours and lift service levels
- Lessons from 15 years in BNI—including why accountability, follow-up and quality relationships still trump million-dollar ad budgets
- Tips for choosing a telecom partner who’ll call you back (and keep pace with rapid industry change)
- The family trip that proved remote work is easy when your tech stack is right
Packed with actionable insights on upgrading systems, nurturing networks and keeping customers first, this episode is essential listening for owners who want technology to drive—not drain—growth.
Stream now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your favourite app and connect with Hamish on LinkedIn.