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
Baking Bold: How Priyanka Turned Architecture, Art and Passion into Cocoa Oven
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In this inspiring episode of Network Success: Northside Notables, host Lisa Thomas sits down with Priyanka Baruah, founder of Cocoa Oven, to uncover the creative, courageous story behind her thriving cake design studio.
A trained architect turned cake artist, Priyanka shares how her love for design, food, and structure fused into a bold career pivot. She talks about launching Cocoa Oven just months before COVID hit, navigating uncertainty as a migrant entrepreneur, and transforming her side passion into a full-time creative business.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How Priyanka blends artistic flair with business systems
- Why networking outside your comfort zone builds resilience and opportunity
- Her approach to social media that builds trust and drives bookings
- The value of understanding your numbers—even as a creative
- Why workshops and custom cakes have become the two pillars of her success
If you’re a creative thinking about starting your own business—or already running one and trying to scale—Priyanka’s journey offers practical insight and plenty of inspiration.
📍Learn more about her work at cocoaoven.com.au
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.