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Episodes
Stay up to to date with all the latest business news and development for the Greater Springfield region with the GSBC Podcast! Powered by the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce and Supported/Hosted by Purple Bunny Marketing
Episodes
Jan 16, 2026
Jan 16, 2026
11 min
In the final episode of our special GSBC Awards Series, we chat with Tony Gilbertson, owner of The Little Guy Pest Control and winner of the 2025 Real Estate & Property Maintenance Award. Tony shares his journey from getting into pest control to building a trusted local business rooted in reliability, personal service, and community values.
We dive into the story behind the “Little Guy” name, the values it represents, and the pivotal moments that shaped the business. Tony also opens up about challenges faced, lessons learned, and how he’s maintained quality service while growing in a competitive industry.
From honest customer care to staying ahead of tech changes, this episode is a must-listen for any small business owner looking to make a big impact — and stay true to their roots.
Jan 9, 2026
Jan 9, 2026
14 min
In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington welcomes Luke Frederick from Quest Springfield Central, the proud recipient of the 2025 Hospitality Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
Luke shares his journey into the hospitality industry and what makes the Springfield Central location such a standout destination for both business travellers and families alike. He reflects on the unique blend of national brand standards and local personality that sets Quest apart — and the incredible team that makes it all happen.
This episode is a great listen for anyone in hospitality, business, or customer service — and a reminder that great guest experiences start with great people.
Dec 19, 2025
Dec 19, 2025
15 min
In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington chats with Martin von Stein, founder of BizGuard, the 2025 recipient of the Media & IT Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
Martin shares his journey from a passion for technology to building one of Springfield’s most trusted names in cybersecurity. With a clear mission to protect small and medium-sized businesses from growing digital threats, BizGuard is as much about people as it is about tech.
We talk about the most common mistakes businesses make when it comes to IT and security, what keeps BizGuard ahead of the curve, and how the team strikes a balance between complex technology and simple, human communication. Martin also reflects on what it means to be publicly recognised in an industry that often operates behind the scenes.
Dec 12, 2025
Dec 12, 2025
14 min
In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, host Matt Taylor-Farrington speaks with Mark Owens from Western Spirit Football Club, proud recipient of the 2025 Lifestyle Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Mark shares his personal journey with the club, how Western Spirit became a cornerstone of the Springfield community, and why sport is so much more than just competition — it’s about health, connection, and belonging. From grassroots juniors to lifelong fans, the club fosters inclusivity, resilience, and a culture that brings people together both on and off the field.
Dec 5, 2025
Dec 5, 2025
7 min
In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington is joined by Bec Evans, Deputy Principal at Springfield Central State High School, which was recognised with the 2025 Education & Training Award at this year’s Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
Bec shares her personal journey into education, from early inspiration to leadership in one of the region’s most dynamic and fast-growing schools. With a focus on innovation, student wellbeing, and real-world learning, Springfield Central SHS has become known for its strong culture, staff collaboration, and future-focused approach.
We dive into the power of school leadership, what it takes to motivate both students and teachers, and how education is evolving to prepare young people for a changing world. Bec also reflects on the meaning behind this award and the importance of celebrating the unseen, collective effort that drives student success.
Nov 28, 2025
Nov 28, 2025
14 min
In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington chats with Charlene Rapa, owner of apaR Hair Studio, who took home the Best Customer Service Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for the second year in a row.
Charlene shares what it was like to hear her name called again, and what back-to-back recognition says about her team’s unwavering focus on genuine connection, community, and consistency. From creating a salon culture where everyone feels at home to navigating the real challenges of high-energy, client-facing work, she unpacks what it truly takes to keep customers coming back.
Nov 21, 2025
Nov 21, 2025
10 min
In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Katherine Manby, founder of VM Family Law and winner of the 2025 Professional Services Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Katherine shares the story behind her decision to specialise in family law, a field that demands compassion, strength, and a deep sense of purpose. We discuss the culture she’s built at VM Family Law, how she supports her team through emotionally complex cases, and the guiding principles that ensure clients feel safe, heard, and supported during some of life’s toughest moments. Katherine also reflects on what it means to be recognised with the Professional Services Award, and how her team’s dedication to quality, care, and community has shaped their reputation in the Springfield region.
Nov 14, 2025
Nov 14, 2025
10 min
In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Melissa Wright, founder of Zest Mortgage Solutions, who took home two major awards at the 2025 Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards: the Outstanding Small Business Award and the Financial Services Award. Melissa reflects on what it meant to be recognised not just for Zest’s business growth, but also for its standout client experience in an industry that’s complex, fast-moving, and deeply personal. We also dive into the importance of local business relationships, a client story that’s stuck with her over the years, and the philosophy that drives Zest’s continued success. Whether you’re a business owner looking for inspiration or someone curious about building a brand clients love and trust—this episode is packed with insight, heart, and yes… a whole lot of Zest.