The Wisdom Of... Show: Unraveling Complex Issues

The Wisdom
Of... Show

Do you read the news and wonder how the most complex problems will be resolved?

Do you see innovative ideas and wonder
how were they catalyzed and actualized?

Join Simon Bowen on his new show, “The Wisdom Of…” where he talks with the world’s great leaders, thinkers, and entrepreneurs about complex issues, projects and ideas, bringing the Renaissance of Wisdom to your weekly schedule.

Trusted By

Tamara Jackson: Faith, Authenticity, and Leadership in a Digital Age

Simon Bowen speaks with Tamara Jackson, Founder and CEO of Beaconship, a sanctuary where faith and business intertwine. From discussing the myth of compartmentalization to exploring the power of pause in leadership, Tamara shares profound insights on how faith-driven leadership creates authentic impact in today’s hyperconnected world. Discover her four guiding values—Faith, Significance, Excellence, and Classiness—and learn why the deepest discoveries in business and life are made in slowing down, not speeding up.

Jeff Dudan: The Business Athlete's Guide to Entrepreneurial Inflection Points

Simon Bowen speaks with Jeff Dudan, Chairman & CEO of Homefront Brands and founder of AdvantaClean. From turning Hurricane Andrew’s devastation into a business opportunity to scaling a national franchise with 240 locations, Jeff shares profound insights on entrepreneurial resilience, strategic decision-making, and building legacy businesses. Discover his unique “business athlete’s” approach to recognizing inflection points, making decisions with discernment, and creating organizations that thrive through crisis and opportunity alike.

Blake Thompson & Declan Kluver: From Competitors to Partners — The Birth of XRecruiter

Simon Bowen speaks with Blake Thompson and Declan Kluver, co-founders of XRecruiter. From their fascinating journey as childhood friends turned competitors, to their eventual collaboration during COVID that led to one of Australia’s fastest-growing companies, Blake and Declan share the unfiltered truth about building a business that’s achieved 1540% growth in a single year. Discover how these young entrepreneurs rewrote the rules of the recruitment industry, their strategies for exponential scaling, and their vision for global expansion as they prepare to enter the US market.

Garry Ridge: Human-Centered Leadership and the Power of Learning Culture

Simon Bowen speaks with Garry Ridge, Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company and founder of The Learning Moment. From transforming a single-product company into a global powerhouse to achieving remarkable employee engagement, Garry shares his philosophy of human-centered leadership that drives both business success and personal fulfillment. Discover his insights on creating a “tribe of learning,” the power of reframing mistakes, practicing servant leadership, and building organizational cultures where people can truly thrive, learn, and contribute to something greater.

Adrian Di Marco: The Founder's Path from Demountable Office to $10 Billion Enterprise

Simon Bowen speaks with Adrian Di Marco, founder of TechnologyOne, Australia’s largest enterprise software company. From starting in a demountable office next to a hides processing plant in 1987 to building a $10 billion global enterprise, Adrian shares profound insights on patient leadership, maintaining original genius through growth, and creating lasting impact. Discover his counter-intuitive approach to capital raising, his revolutionary distinction between leadership and management, and the wisdom behind creating a business with heart and soul.

Rob Weir: From Military to Mezcal - Building the Infrastructure for Artisanal Trade

Simon Bowen speaks with Rob Weir, CEO of Maguey Exchange. From his time as a West Point graduate and U.S. Army Ranger to founding a company that’s revolutionizing the artisanal spirits industry, Rob shares powerful insights on community-led business models, field-first development, and creating systems that add value at every step. Discover how his experiences in Afghanistan shaped his approach to building a platform that connects artisanal producers with global markets while preserving cultural heritage.

Ron Diamond: The Stewardship of Wealth and Purpose

Simon Bowen speaks with Ron Diamond, Founder and Ceo of Diamond Wealth. From investing alongside 100 family offices to chairing multiple TIGER 21 chapters, Ron brings decades of experience in wealth management, philanthropy, and private markets. Discover his insights on the true purpose of wealth, the transfer of family legacies, disruptive technologies, leadership evolution, and the five principles that guide his life and decisions.

Brett King: Futurism, AI Revolution, and Reimagining Our Future

Simon Bowen speaks with Brett King, a world-renowned futurist, international bestselling author, and pioneering fintech entrepreneur. From creating the world’s first downloadable bank to advising presidential administrations on fintech policy, Brett brings extraordinary insights on how AI, climate change, and technological advancement will fundamentally transform every aspect of human life. Discover his provocative perspectives on first principles innovation, the future of work in an AI-driven economy, and the philosophical shifts needed for humanity to thrive amidst unprecedented change.

Sheila FitzPatrick: Data Protection, AI, and Cybersecurity

Simon Bowen speaks with Sheila FitzPatrick, a leading international employment and data protection attorney, recognized for her expertise in privacy and security. The conversation covers Sheila’s journey from employment law to becoming an influential figure in data privacy, her role in shaping international privacy laws, including the GDPR, and her insights on the burgeoning field of AI and its implications for data privacy.

Kent Yoshimura: The Art of Scaling Through Simplification

Simon Bowen speaks with Kent Yoshimura, co-founder and CEO of Neuro, a functional confectionery brand that has revolutionized the supplement industry by delivering cognitive benefits through everyday products like gum and mints. From his background in neuroscience to his experiences as an international martial artist and large-scale muralist, Kent shares powerful insights on simplifying complexity, building trust systems, and creating sustainable success that applies to businesses across all sectors.

Major General Mick Ryan AM: Military Leadership for Business Success

Simon Bowen speaks with Major General Mick Ryan AM, a distinguished military leader with 35 years of experience in the Australian Army. From leading reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan to serving in strategic roles at the Pentagon, Mick shares battle-tested leadership wisdom that transcends sectors. Discover his insights on human-centered leadership, navigating complexity, embracing failure, and building organizations that continuously adapt to change.

Ed Catmull: Pixar Co-Founder on Creative Leadership & Innovation

Simon Bowen speaks with Ed Catmull, co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios and former president of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Disneytoon Studios. With five Academy Awards® including an Oscar for Lifetime Achievement and the prestigious Turing Award for his work in computer graphics, Ed shares profound insights on creative leadership, innovation, and building world-class organizations. From pioneering 3D animation to leading the creation of beloved films that have grossed over $14 billion worldwide, Ed’s journey offers valuable lessons on fostering creativity, navigating change, and building sustainable success.

Liz Ellis: From Court Champion to Media Icon - Wisdom of an Australian Sporting Legend

Simon Bowen speaks with Liz Ellis, one of Australia’s most celebrated sporting icons and media personalities. From leading the Australian Netball Team to World Cup victory as captain to winning the 2023 series of “I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here,” Liz shares invaluable insights on leadership, team building, and performance under pressure. Recently elected as Chair of the Netball Australia Board, Liz’s journey from elite athlete to respected media figure offers profound lessons on values, preparation, and building relationships that transcend sport and apply directly to business and life.

Brian Smith: From Surf Culture to Sheepskin Success - The Billion-Dollar Journey of UGG

Simon Bowen explores entrepreneurial wisdom with Brian Smith, founder of UGG Imports. From a $500 investment to a billion-dollar global phenomenon, Brian shares his remarkable journey of transforming Australian sheepskin boots into an iconic American brand. With raw honesty and deep insight, he reveals the challenges, pivotal moments, and unconventional strategies that built one of the world’s most recognized footwear brands.

Carl Hartmann: Serial Success & Innovative Insights From An Australian Entrepreneurial Icon

Simon Bowen explores entrepreneurial wisdom with Carl Hartmann, a multi-award-winning Australian serial entrepreneur known for co-founding Temando, Compono, and Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Spirit Co. From leading distributed teams to creating companies capable of deca-million-dollar exits, Carl shares invaluable insights on scaling businesses and fostering innovation while maintaining unwavering optimism through challenges.

Dr. Dale Bredesen: Pioneering Scientist on Reversing Alzheimer's & Breaking Scientific Paradigms

Simon Bowen explores groundbreaking research on Alzheimer’s disease with Dr. Dale Bredesen, renowned neurodegenerative scientist and CEO of the Buck Institute for Age Research. From challenging medical paradigms to developing revolutionary treatments, Dr. Bredesen shares crucial insights on preventing and reversing neurodegenerative diseases, along with valuable lessons on innovation and resilience in the face of established opposition.

Dr. Sean Gallagher: AI Expert on Future of Work, Leadership, and Human-Centered Innovation

Simon Bowen explores the transformative impact of AI with Dr. Sean Gallagher, founder of Humanova and leading expert on the future of work. From redefining workplace dynamics to embracing AI integration, Dr. Gallagher shares crucial insights on leadership, innovation, and maintaining humanity in an increasingly automated world.

Kim McDonnell: From Outback to United Nations - Driving Global Change Through Gratitude

Simon Bowen explores transformative insights with Kim McDonnell, founder of Thankful and visionary social impact entrepreneur. From her roots in Mount Isa’s outback to speaking at the United Nations, Kim shares powerful lessons about turning gratitude into action, creating authentic purpose-driven organizations, and catalyzing global change through interconnected solutions.

Bruce Cardenas: The Human Side of Business Success

Simon Bowen explores transformative leadership insights with Bruce Cardenas, former LAPD officer and Chief Communications Officer of Quest Nutrition. From his decorated 20-year service in law enforcement to helping lead Quest Nutrition to a $1 billion exit, Bruce shares powerful lessons about authentic leadership, human connection, and building remarkable company cultures.

Rich Diviney: The Attributes of High Performance - Navy SEAL Wisdom for Leaders

Simon Bowen explores the essence of high performance with Rich Diviney, former Navy SEAL officer and author of “The Attributes.” Drawing from his extensive military experience and work with corporate leaders, Rich shares profound insights on optimal performance, team dynamics, and the crucial distinction between attributes and skills in leadership effectiveness.

David Kenney: Turning Capital into Success - A Startup Mastermind

Simon Bowen engages with David Kenney, founder of StartGrowth and veteran startup advisor, about the art of capital allocation, building investable businesses, and the fundamental principles that drive entrepreneurial success. From his early days selling orange juice subscriptions at 14 to helping raise billions in capital, David shares profound insights on what makes entrepreneurs and businesses truly successful.

Beverley Garside: Transforming Lives Through Healthcare Leadership

Simon Bowen speaks with Beverley Garside, CEO of the Thyroid Foundation, about her 30-year journey in patient advocacy, leading volunteer teams, and the importance of stewardship in healthcare advocacy. Beverley shares profound insights on patient care, volunteer engagement, and maintaining organizational integrity in an age of misinformation.

Graham "Skroo" Turner: Building a Global Travel Empire Through People-First Leadership

Simon Bowen sits down with Graham “Skroo” Turner, co-founder and CEO of Flight Centre, one of the world’s largest travel agencies. From starting with a single bus in Europe to building a global travel empire, Turner shares invaluable insights on leadership, organizational structure, and maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing industry.

Matt Purcell: Building Authentic Brands and Personal Resilience

Simon Bowen engages in a deep conversation with Matt Purcell, brand strategist, musician, and social impact leader. From his personal journey of overcoming childhood bullying to becoming one of Australia’s leading brand strategists, Matt shares profound insights on authenticity, personal branding, and building resilience in today’s complex world.

John Hardy: Retail Leadership Mastery - From Shop Floor to Corporate Success

Simon Bowen engages in an insightful conversation with John Hardy, a titan of Australian retail who has led multiple national brands including Godfreys, Barbecues Galore, and Amart Furniture to remarkable success. With over four decades of retail experience, John shares his proven approach to building sales cultures and transforming retail businesses.

Larry Namer: Entertainment Visionary on Global Media, Innovation, and Cultural Impact

Simon Bowen engages in a fascinating conversation with Larry Namer, founder of E! Entertainment and pioneering media entrepreneur. From creating a global entertainment empire to successfully navigating cross-cultural media ventures in China and beyond, Larry shares invaluable insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of entertainment.

Marci Zaroff: Pioneering Eco-Fashion and Sustainable Business Leadership

Simon Bowen engages in an inspiring conversation with Marci Zaroff, pioneering entrepreneur and founder of multiple sustainable businesses. As the person who coined the term “eco-fashion” in 1995, Marci shares her journey of transforming industries through sustainable practices and her vision for business as a force for positive change.

Anuradha Muralidharan: Innovation Meets Integrity

Simon Bowen engages in an insightful conversation with Anuradha Muralidharan, COO at Expensify. From joining the company in 2015 without a defined role to driving major innovations, she shares her unique perspective on leadership, innovation, and navigating rapid technological change in the modern business landscape.

Kristina Karlsson: From Great Risk To Global Brand

Simon Bowen engages in a compelling conversation with Kristina Karlsson, founder of Kikki K and Dream Life. Kristina shares her remarkable journey from starting a stationery business in Australia to building a global retail empire, and how she navigated both tremendous success and significant challenges with resilience and wisdom.

Shi Heng Yi on the Shaolin Way - Mindfulness, Martial Arts, and Modern Leadership

Simon Bowen engages in a profound conversation with Shi Heng Yi, a 35th Generation Shaolin Master and headmaster of the Shaolin Temple Europe. They explore the intersection of martial arts, Buddhist practices, and their relevance to modern leadership and personal development.

Charlene Li: Embracing Disruption and Transformational Leadership in the Digital Era

Simon Bowen engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Charlene Li, a renowned expert in disruptive transformation, leadership, and the future of work. Charlene shares invaluable insights on embracing disruption, fostering meaningful relationships in the digital age, and unlocking human potential in the workplace.

Kimberly Nicholas: Climate Science Simplified - A Blueprint for Action

Simon Bowen engages in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Kimberly Nicholas, a sustainability scientist and author. They discuss the urgent need for climate action, the role of individuals and businesses in addressing the climate crisis, and how to maintain hope while facing global challenges.

Alison Covington’s Blueprint for Business-Driven Change

Simon Bowen engages in a stimulating conversation with Alison Covington, founder of Good360 Australia. Transitioning from a successful career in retail and IT to the non-profit sector, Alison discusses her inspirational journey and the founding of Good360. The conversation delves into the significant shift and accomplishments of Alison and her team in redistributing billions of dollars worth of goods from businesses to those in need, reducing waste and benefiting communities. Alison shares insights into impactful leadership, the importance of kindness and trust, and how technology is leveraged in the non-profit sector. This episode underscores the importance of believing in oneself and the collective power of businesses and individuals in driving meaningful societal change.

Dr. Ben Hamer’s insights on the Future of Work

Simon Bowen engages in a deep conversation with accredited futurist Dr. Ben, exploring the dynamic and rapidly changing landscape of leadership in modern times. Dr. Ben, formerly the head of the future of work at PwC Australia and an award winner for his work in the Asia Pacific region, delves into the principles of futurism and explains why traditional business strategies may be flawed in our fast-paced world. The discussion touches on the importance of foresight, adaptive mindsets, technology trends, climate change impacts, generational shifts, and the ethical implications of AI. Dr. Ben also offers actionable insights for leaders to remain authentic, embrace vulnerability, and leverage emerging technologies, while maintaining the human touch in their organizations. This engaging episode seeks to inspire leaders to be proactive stewards of their resources and to prepare thoughtfully for an ever-evolving future.

Dominic Price on The Future of Work is Human

Simon Bowen converses with Dominic Price, Atlassian’s Resident Work Futurist. They discuss the importance of impactful leadership and the passing of wisdom to future generations. Dominic shares his journey, the created role at Atlassian, and the company’s mission of enhancing teamwork. The conversation covers various topics including the complexities of ethical leadership, integrating technology and human elements in the workplace, and the significance of curiosity and humility. Dominic also talks about his involvement with non-profit organization ‘Room to Read,’ emphasizing the value of education. Essential themes include the future of work, balancing personal and business ethics, and the need for pauses and reflection in a fast-paced world.

Leslie Shannon on Navigating the AI Revolution: Insights on the Future of Leadership and Innovation

Simon Bowen engages in an enlightening conversation with Leslie Shannon, Nokia’s Head of Trend and Innovation Scouting. They explore the essence of impactful leadership, emerging technologies, and the role of wisdom behind genius in today’s complex world. Leslie explains Nokia’s transformation from a mobile phone manufacturer to a network company, details her role as a novophiliac, and discusses innovations such as augmented reality, generative AI, and the significance of trust and security in technology. They also delve into the impact of virtual natives on the future of business and the importance of ethical considerations in technological advancements. The episode provides valuable insights for leaders, businesses, and young innovators on navigating and thriving in the evolving technological landscape.

Rosie Batty's Blueprint for Societal Change: Turning Tragedy into a Movement

Simon Bowen sits down with Rosie Batty, a fearless advocate against family violence and one of Australia’s most impactful change-makers. This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the art of driving meaningful transformation. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or someone passionate about making a difference, Rosie’s wisdom will inspire you to think bigger and act bolder.

Peter Hillary on the Wisdom of Leadership and Stewardship

Simon Bowen sits down with Peter Hillary, son of legendary mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary. Peter shares profound insights on leadership, stewardship, and making a lasting impact on the world. Discover how Peter’s five Everest summits and 43 Antarctic expeditions shaped his perspective on teamwork and resilience. Learn about the Hillary family’s ongoing legacy of philanthropy in Nepal. Uncover the mindset required to overcome extreme challenges and drive meaningful change. Gain actionable wisdom on environmental stewardship and global responsibility. Peter’s unique experiences offer valuable lessons for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to make a difference. This conversation will challenge you to think bigger, act bolder, and leave a positive legacy for generations to come.

Retired Major General Gus McLachlan on Leadership Wisdom: Navigating Complexity Leadership Wisdom

Simon Bowen converses with retired Major General Gus McLachlan. They delve into the necessity of wisdom in leadership amidst today’s intricate political, social, and economic landscapes. Major General McLachlan shares his extensive 37-year military career, emphasizing the importance of deep thinking, experience, and communication in leadership. They explore the evolving nature of leadership, the challenges of modernizing the military, the state of global geopolitical threats, and the implications of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. The discussion highlights the critical need for leaders to exhibit confident humility, the wisdom to navigate crises, and the vision to prepare for future challenges.

Alice Barbery on Expanding Leadership: Balancing Business Success and Social Responsibility

Simon Bowen talks to Alice Barbery, CEO of Universal Store, about impactful and meaningful leadership in today’s superficial world. They discuss Alice’s career in retail, her values guided by social justice, and the challenges of leading a modern, purpose-driven business. Alice shares why Universal Store prioritizes values such as environmental sustainability, ethical business practices, and fostering a positive workplace culture. The conversation delves into the role of young people in today’s workforce, the complexities of technology and AI, and the broader implications of nurturing a compassionate and inclusive business environment.

Alicia Ferguson’s Winning Ways From the Field to the Front Office

Simon talks with Alicia Ferguson, an ex-pro footballer and Olympian from Australia. She highlights the need for wisdom-led leadership and shares how elite athletes’ traits like resilience and goal-setting set them apart, focusing on the journey rather than just results. Alicia also speaks on the growth of women’s sports and the significance of events like the Women’s World Cup, providing valuable lessons for sports fans and those looking to harness high-performance tactics professionally.

Janine Allis on Building Brands, Survivor Experience, and Shark Tank Insights

Simon Bowen talks with Janine Allis, the famous founder of Boost Juice. They explore the success secrets of Boost Juice, strong leadership, and Janine’s life as an entrepreneur. They discuss how Boost Juice started, why being curious and tough is key in business, and the role of personal branding. Janine shares her stories and what she learned from being on Survivor Australia, highlighting the power of a strong mind. This episode is full of good advice for leaders and those starting their own businesses.

Authentic Leadership and the Power of Gratitude with Moe Vela

Simon and Moe Vela discuss the importance of gratitude, humility, and authenticity in leadership. They explore overcoming fears, connecting with others, and how humor, music, and values contribute to effective leadership. Moe also shares anecdotes from his White House experience and ‘Unicorn Hunters,’ highlighting the necessity for leaders to be transparent and supportive, fostering a respectful, team-oriented culture.

THE WISDOM OF...
HOSTED BY SIMON BOWEN

We want YOU to be a part of the excitement! Do you have burning questions about leadership, entrepreneurship or business? Curious about some of the most complex crises and decisions ever made and how they were navigated?
Know of a thought leader or entrepreneur whose journey you’d love us to explore?

We’re inviting you to suggest topics and recommend guests for upcoming episodes.

Here‘s what others have suggested...

SUGGESTED TOPICS

Leadership in a Changing World: the evolving role of leadership in the face of technological and social change.
The Future of Innovation: the breakthroughs in innovation and entrepreneurship.
Global Challenges and Solutions: solutions to complex global issues like climate change, poverty, and inequality.
Ethics in Business: the ethical dilemmas and moral considerations faced by leaders.
Artificial Intelligence: the implications of AI on business, society, and ethics.
Mental Models for Decision-Making: the cognitive frameworks that great leaders use.

SUGGESTED GUESTS

Industry Innovators & Visionary CEOs
Thought Leaders & Inspirational Figures
Scientists & Researchers
Tech Pioneers
Philosophers & Ethicists
Humanitarians, Activists & Advocates
Economists & Policy Makers
Artists & Creatives
Historians
Psychologists & Behavioral Scientists
Authors & Scholars
Futurists

MEET YOUR HOST:
SIMON BOWEN

Simon Bowen has spent over two decades working with some of the most influential leaders across many complex industries and circumstances. His very clear finding is quite simply that thinking is valued less than doing in almost every situation in our modern world.

However, Simon has conversely observed that the power and success of any business, project or organization will be in direct proportion to the level and quality of thinking of the people and the quality of the idea or ideas on which it is built. As such, Simon is leading the renaissance of thinking.

A sought-after speaker, facilitator and advisor to global leaders, Simon has demonstrated the efficacy of his line method for over 20 years with Fortune 500 companies, heads of Government, the military and private sector in strategic planning, the incubation of innovation, crisis management, and moments of conflict.

Simon’s book, The Line, is set for release in 2025; and he has limited speaking dates available for global events. His show, The Wisdom Of… is currently booking guests and sponsors for launch.

Simon is the most profound and transformational business thinker and contributor in the entrepreneurial space of this modern era.

Martin Latulippe

HOW SIMON CAN HELP

Consulting & Advisory

Called upon to facilitate, advise and collaborate on complex and critical issues for leaders, businesses and organizations; as a Private Advisor to leaders globally, Simon is bringing key decision-making tables back to clear, potent thinking that results in certain outcomes.

The Models Method

Simon Bowen’s Models Method has been revolutionizing the way brands and leaders sell, package and deliver their unique intellectual property for years. The Models Method continues to unpack genius globally, and remains one of Simon’s most important legacies.

Speaking & Workshops

On stage, as a facilitator or advisor, Simon is a captivating and transformative teacher, showing leaders how to master the art of levels of thinking, understanding deeply how Context leads to Concept and finally Content, moving the line of thinking between these functions to catalyze success under any circumstance. His visual models and clear articulation of his method have made him the go-to sage for some of the most complex, impactful and critical decision rooms globally.

RESOURCES FOR LEADERS

Connect with Simon Bowen and the Renaissance of Wisdom community to access a wealth of resources designed to ignite your genius, empower your leadership, and amplify your impact.

SIMON’S NEWSLETTER

Simon Bowen’s thought-provoking newsletter for leaders, entrepreneurs and those seeking true wisdom.

THE MASTERCLASS

Designed to help CEOs create a bullet-proof positioning for their company and its offerings.

WISDOM HUB

Simon Bowen’s The Wisdom Hub provides the essential elements you need to thrive as a true leader or steward.

I’ve been blessed to spend the last decade surrounded by some of the biggest business thought leaders in the world … I can say with full confidence that Simon’s brilliance and wisdom puts him in a league of his own.