Shows / Difference Makers Podcast
Difference Makers Podcast
We created this podcast in order to celebrate the lives and work of people who have transformed communities, businesses, and the wider world, making a real difference in the lives of others. We call them "Difference Makers". Some overcame great personal adversity in their journey. They all showed the knowledge, perspective, skills and capabilities to lead, to achieve, and to make real change when it is needed most. Oh, and by the way... they are all Chartered Accountants!
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Episodes
- Difference Makers Podcast
Ramis Ansari - The accountant with a million followers
Ramis Ansari has just under a million followers, a fashion label and an events business. He is also a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Aisling McCaffrey - The forks in the road that shaped her career
Aisling McCaffrey's first CAO choice was actuarial studies. Her second was Irish music and dance. Today she works at the Impact Investing Institute in London…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Kingsley Aikins - Why your next opportunity is hiding in your weakest connection
Networking is neither an art nor a science. It is a process, and Kingsley Aikins has spent a career proving it. In the second part of his conversation with…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Difference Makers Discuss - Best of Season 4
Season 4 of Difference Makers Discuss took us from Sydney to London, from Olympic tracks to the maize fields of Mozambique, from online exam halls in South…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Remote working across borders: The hidden risks businesses need to understand
Someone asks to “work from another country for a few weeks” and it feels like an easy yes. Then the questions start: does a visitor visa change tax status…
Difference Makers PodcastKingsley Aikins - Good work doesn't speak for itself... But you can!
Your career is not a solo sport, and pretending it is can quietly stall your progress. We’re joined by Kingsley Aikins, widely known for his work on…
Difference Makers PodcastAster Thackery - What If your REAL skill is connecting people?
A Chartered Accountant from New Zealand ends up advising global investors on Italy’s value proposition, and somehow that’s only the start. We sit down with…
Difference Makers PodcastLiswaniso Namatama, Auditing Is a Human Business
A global summit can feel like a once-off highlight, but for Liswaniso Namatama it becomes a turning point. I’m joined by the Lusaka-based chartered accountant…
Difference Makers PodcastManuel Rodrigues, Merging Commercial Success with Social Impact
A rural village where income arrives once a year is hard to transform, unless you change the rhythm of cash, supply, and trust. That is what Manuel Rodrigues…
Difference Makers PodcastCaitríona Jennings, From PwC to World Records
A 100-mile world record time sounds like something from another planet, until you hear how Caitríona Jennings actually built it: not with superhero secrets…
Difference Makers PodcastNick Riemer, Embracing AI and Tech in Financial Careers
Online exams are meant to make learning easier, but most proctoring tools still assume perfect Wi‑Fi, constant power, and a pricey laptop. That leaves too many…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers: Laura Mason on aligning purpose and performance to ensure that profit fuels justice
Start with what you’re good at and point it at a real problem—that’s the thread running through our conversation with Laura Mason, a chartered accountant who…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers: Excel is eating audit, and Christiaan Coetzee brought the fork!
Ready to discover how a chartered accountant turns risk literacy into a founder’s edge? We sit down with Christiaan Coetzee—CEO and co‑founder of Audit Toolbar…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers: Jas Rayat on how choosing an apprenticeship over university changed her career
For Jas Rayat curiosity lit the first spark: how do businesses actually work, and why does finance feel like the spine that keeps them upright? From that…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers: Sitali Chiuyu on Building Integrity, Accountability, Education, and Responsible Tech
Start with a simple truth: problems rarely arrive alone. Sitali joins us to show how education, governance, and technology interlock—and how a single career…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers: How Khethiwe Sibanyoni uses Ethics and Systems Thinking to tackle Gender-Based Violence
What if the rigour that keeps companies honest could also save lives? We sit down with social impact activist and aspiring chartered accountant Khethiwe…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers: Rebecca Casey talks Numbers, Nerves, and a One-Planet Pledge Walk into a Conference
If you’ve ever been told to “wait your turn,” this conversation politely declines. We sit down with chartered accountant and risk professional Rebecca Casey to…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers: Saad Bin Asim Zubairi and his journey of Learning, Empathy, and AI
What if a ten-year-old’s love for maths could spark a career that blends finance, empathy and AI for social good? We sit down with Saad Bin Asim Zubairi of the…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers: Sophie Sweeney On Education, Courage, And A Human-Centred Accounting Career
A teenage mum, a bus to Galway, and a toddler in the back row of a lecture hall—this is where Sophie Sweeney’s story begins. That early proximity to learning…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Resilience, Flow, And The Future Of Accounting
Ever feel like your day is a blur of pings, context switches, and late-night messages that steal your sleep? We sat down with Brad Hook and Declan Scott to…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Carla S. Vijian - From Malaysia to Manhattan – A Journey in Ethics, Audit, and Marathon Running
Curiosity isn’t a personality trait—it’s a practice that can shape a career and safeguard public trust. That idea runs through our conversation with Carla S…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Nicola Ellam on why AI won’t take your job—it will take it to a whole new level
The myth that accountancy is just numbers falls apart fast when you hear Nicola Ellam’s story. Trained in the UK, seasoned in Hong Kong, and now a managing…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Mark Scully on compassion, masking, and changing how firms manage people
What if the story you’ve told yourself about your career is missing the most important chapter? Mark Scully trained in law, pivoted into tax at a Big Four…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Ken Croarkin - A Chartered Accountant who took one leap—said yes once—and changed a whole life trajectory
One decision can reroute a whole career. When Ken Croarkin said yes to learning insurance in Glasgow, he couldn’t have guessed it would lead to London, a…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Meet Lem Chin Kok - a cop turned accountant using AI to outrun fraud
Ever wondered how a fast‑response police officer becomes an AI‑first CEO shaping the future of audit and forensics? We sit down with Lem Chin Kok to trace a…
- Difference Makers Podcast
DMD Live Highlights from Season One: From Boardrooms to Breakthroughs
Join host Sinead Donovan for a special “best of” edition celebrating the most inspiring moments from the first season of Difference Makers Discuss. Over seven…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Best of DMD Live Season 2 - From Cape Town to the BBC: Journeys That Matter
Sinead Donovan reflects on hosting the Difference Makers Discuss webinar series, sharing powerful highlights from conversations with remarkable professionals…
- Difference Makers Podcast
AI and the future of the global Chartered Accountancy profession
In this episode, Chair of Chartered Accountants Worldwide and CEO of CA ANZ, Ainslie van Onselen is joined by Alex Russell, Associate Director at Ipsos…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Global Challenges and the Drive for Sustainability with Carmine Di Noia (Director for Financial and Enterprise Affairs at the OECD)
In this special episode of Difference Makers Discuss Ainslie Van Onselen, Chair Chartered Accountants Worldwide & CEO CA ANZ, meets Carmine Di Noia, Director…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S03 Ep 04 From Accounting to Sustainability: Lavanya Ramanujan's Inspiring Journey
Discover the remarkable journey of Lavanya Ramanujan, an accountant at Google, who defied expectations by turning an unexpected leap into the field of…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S03 Ep 03 Empowering Communities: Senzo Ndlangamandla's Advocacy for a Better Future
What if you held the key to transforming your community, one person at a time? Join us as we hear from Senzo Ndlangamandla, the inspiring head of the…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S03 Ep 01 Inspiring Paths: Eryn Paterson on Audit, Social Mobility, and Career Growth
Eryn Paterson, an inspiring Audit Assistant Manager at KPMG, unravels her path from a budding interest in business to becoming a chartered accountant in this…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S03 Ep02 Evan O'Donnell: From Math Enthusiast to Advocate for Accounting and Sustainability
Evan O'Donnell's journey from a math enthusiast to a passionate advocate for accounting and sustainability is nothing short of inspiring. Embark on this…
Difference Makers PodcastSpecial Episode: Resilience in the Accountancy Profession: Insights and Strategies with Dee France, Brad Hook and Declan Scott
Unlock the keys to resilience and well-being in the accountancy profession with this special episode of Difference Makers Discuss. This episode is hosted by…
Difference Makers PodcastFrom Zimbabwe to Perth: Tinashe's trailblazing career in Chartered Accounting
Explore the fascinating journey of Tinashe Kamangira, a trailblazer in the accounting world, who takes us from his roots in Zimbabwe to a thriving career in…
- Difference Makers Podcast
DMD Live - Integrating Finance, Fashion, and Family: Michelle Shuttleworth’s Inspiring Journey
Meet Michelle Shuttleworth, a trailblazer in finance and a passionate advocate for purpose-driven work. From her beginnings at PwC to her dynamic roles at…
- Difference Makers Podcast
DMD Live - From Adversity to Achievement: Thembeka Maseko on Resilience, Education, and Leadership
What if the adversities you faced could become the foundation for your success? This episode features Thembeka Maseko, head of finance and value management at…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Difference Makers Discuss Special Edition - Driving Global Sustainability: The Role of Chartered Accountants in Shaping a Sustainable Future
Have you ever wondered how the accounting profession can drive global sustainability? In this special edition of Difference Makers Discuss Live, join us for a…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S2 E8 - Unlocking Global Opportunities in Chartered Accountancy: Insights with Peter Gillen
Unlock the limitless possibilities of a career in Chartered Accountancy with insights from our Young Difference Maker, and Chartered Accountants Ireland…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Difference Makers Discuss Live - Charting a Diverse Path: Kudzai Zendara's Journey in Finance and the Future of Accountancy
Embark on a voyage of discovery with Kudzai Zendara, a beacon of wisdom from Chartered Accountant Scotland, who graciously shares the colorful tapestry of his…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S2 E7 - Climbing Beyond the Ladder: Mishka Hajee's Quest for Community Progress
Have you ever met someone whose career trajectory embodies both resilience and a dedication to positive societal impact? Meet Mishka Hajee, a South African…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Difference Makers Discuss Live - Breaking Barriers in Finance: Asma Shahbaz’s Journey to Success as a Chartered Accountant
Meet Asma Shahbaz, a Chartered Accountant from Pakistan who's breaking barriers and transforming the financial landscape. In a candid conversation, Asma shares…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S2 E6 - From Medicine to Metrics: Mathabo's Ascent in Accountancy and Leadership
Imagine the career you thought you wanted taking an unexpected turn, leading you to uncharted territories that not only redefine your future but also impact…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers Discuss Live - Scaling New Heights: Naomi Walsh on Breaking Barriers in Accounting and Championing Sustainability
Embark on a journey with Naomi Walsh, the trailblazing Vice President of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, as she unveils her extraordinary…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers Discuss Live - Charting Success and Sisterhood with Kovini Moodley
From the comforting confines of Shelcross to the empowering platform of Boss Babes of South Africa, Kovini Moodley's journey is one rich with insights and…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S2 E5 - Liam Guthrie: Breaking the Mold and Saying 'Yes' to Opportunity
When Liam Guthrie stepped onto the university campus, he was stepping into uncharted territory for his family. His journey from a numbers enthusiast to a…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S2 E4 - Jeremy Cheong From Engineering to Accountancy: A Chartered Accountant's Journey to Making a Social Impact
A graduate in Engineering from Nanyang Technological University, Jeremy defied norms by entering the accountancy profession. His unique journey breaks down…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S2 E3 - Liswaniso Namatama: Charting the Course Through Accounting Triumphs and Educational Pursuits
In this episode, we have the pleasure of hearing from Liswaniso Namatama, a remarkable individual who not only excels in his professional life but also has a…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers Discuss Live - Accountants for Sustainability: An Insightful Discussion with Maria Teo
Ever wondered why accountants are at the forefront of sustainability measures? This enlightening conversation with Maria Teo, a respected member of the…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S2 E2 - Veronica Beilby: Breaking Stereotypes: The Unexpected Impact of Chartered Accountants
Ever thought of accountants as life-savers? You will be surprised by today's guest, Veronica Beilby, a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New…
Difference Makers PodcastYoung Difference Makers S2 E1 - Abigail Foster: Financial Resilience and Entrepreneurship, an Accounting Story
Ever wonder what truly makes an accountant tick? In our latest episode, we sit down with the formidable Abigail Foster, an ACA Chartered Accountant who has…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers Discuss Live - Crisis Leadership and Gender Equality with CFO Caroline Sherry
Ever wondered what it's like to step into a new role just before a global crisis strikes? Tune in as we chat with Caroline Sherry, the CFO of Hostelworld PLC…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers Discuss - Fostering Female Ambition - Ep01 - Sarah Jenkins
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers Discuss - Fostering Female Ambition - Ep02 - Ainslee van Onselen
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers Discuss - Fostering Female Ambition - Ep03 - Joe Consedine
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers Discuss - Fostering Female Ambition - Ep04 - Zimkita Mabindla
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers Discuss - Fostering Female Ambition - Ep05 - Sinead Donovan
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the…
- Difference Makers Podcast
Difference Makers Discuss - Fostering Female Ambition - Ep06 - Round Table Discussion
The Chartered Accountants Worldwide ED&I Taskforce collaborated with research agency, Magenta, to understand and map the career journey of women in the…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers - The President's Podcast featuring Julia Penny
The Presidents’ Podcast is the latest in the Difference Makers series from Chartered Accountants Worldwide. In each episode Antje Derks talks to the President…
Difference Makers PodcastDifference Makers - The Presidents' Podcast featuring Pat O'Neill
The Presidents’ Podcast is the latest in the Difference Makers series from Chartered Accountants Worldwide. In each episode Antje Derks talks to the President…