Building a Family for Australia's Most Vulnerable Youth with Susan Barton (OAM)

Susan Barton (OAM) is the founder of Lighthouse Foundation and one of Australia's most respected advocates for children and young people experiencing homelessness.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Q&A with S&A, Andrea and Shane sit down with Susan to discuss the remarkable journey that led her to establish Lighthouse Foundation more than 35 years ago. From a life-changing experience in Sri Lanka that reshaped her perspective forever, to building an organisation that has helped more than 1,500 young people find safety, stability and belonging, Susan shares the story behind one of Australia's most impactful charitable organisations.

The conversation explores the realities of youth homelessness, the importance of relationships over transactions, and why community involvement is critical in helping vulnerable young people not just survive, but thrive. Susan also shares inspiring stories of resilience, hope and transformation, highlighting the profound difference that even the smallest acts of kindness can make.

Whether you're passionate about creating positive change, interested in the challenges facing young Australians, or simply looking to hear an extraordinary story of compassion and purpose, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

To learn more about Lighthouse Foundation or to get involved, visit:

https://lighthousefoundation.org.au/

Content Warning:

This episode contains discussions relating to homelessness, family violence, child abuse, trauma, foster care, and mental health. Some listeners may find these themes distressing. Please take care while listening and seek support if needed.

If you or someone you know requires support, the following services are available in Australia:

Lifeline Australia (24/7 Crisis Support)

13 11 14

https://www.lifeline.org.au

Beyond Blue

1300 22 4636

https://www.beyondblue.org.au

Kids Helpline (for young people aged 5–25)

1800 55 1800

https://kidshelpline.com.au

1800RESPECT (Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Support)

1800 737 732

https://www.1800respect.org.au

Homelessness Australia

https://homelessnessaustralia.org.au

Lighthouse Foundation

https://lighthousefoundation.org.au

The Future of IT & Business Technology with Matt Sutherland

Technology is evolving at an incredible pace, but how can business owners keep up without getting left behind?

In this episode of Q&A with S&A, Andrea and Shane sit down with Matt Sutherland, Founder and Managing Director of QAMBA, to unpack what today's rapidly changing technology landscape means for small and medium-sized businesses.

From managed IT and cyber security to AI tools, Microsoft vs Google, cloud technology and the rise of AI agents, Matt shares practical insights into where businesses should focus their time, money and attention. The conversation also explores how the right technology partner can help businesses make smarter decisions, reduce risk and embrace innovation without feeling overwhelmed.

Whether you're just starting your business or looking to modernise the way your team works, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you make more confident technology decisions.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on the future of business technology, AI, and building systems that support sustainable business growth.

Connect with Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/it-support-melbourne/

Check out QAMBA: https://qamba.com.au/

General Advice Disclaimer:

The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, taxation, legal, or other professional advice. Before making any financial or business decisions, you should seek advice from a qualified professional who considers your personal circumstances. Aintree Group and its representatives disclaim all liability arising from reliance on the information contained in this episode.

Creating Connections That Matter with Chelsea Scarlett

This week on Q&A with S&A, the tables are turned as Aintree Group's Marketing & Communications Manager, Chelsea Scarlett, steps out from behind the camera and into the guest chair.

Having spent nearly a decade helping shape Aintree Group's brand, communications, events, podcasts, websites, social media presence, and client engagement strategies, Chelsea shares her journey from a part-time marketing coordinator to leading a growing marketing team within one of Melbourne's fastest-growing professional services firms.

Chelsea shares her insights on how marketing has evolved over the past decade, why social media is essential for modern businesses, the importance of authentic personal branding, and how businesses can connect with both clients and future team members through effective communication.

Chelsea also discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of marketing in professional services, the career lessons she's learned along the way, and how a chance encounter with Bollywood dance classes sparked a passion that has become a defining part of her life outside the office.

Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes in a growing business, this episode offers valuable insights into communication, adaptability, and the building of meaningful connections.

Find out more about Aintree Group:

Website: https://aintreegroup.com.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aintreegroup/

Find out more about Bindaas Bollywood:

Website: https://bindaasbollywood.com.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bindaasbollywood_dancecompany/

General Advice Disclaimer:

The information discussed in this podcast is general in nature and is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, taxation, legal, or other professional advice. Before making any financial or business decisions, you should seek advice from a qualified professional who considers your personal circumstances. Aintree Group and its representatives disclaim all liability arising from reliance on the information contained in this episode.