Andy Dowling created a 10-part series titled ‘Self Starter’ released fortnightly, aiming to inspire, motivate, reassure and become a resource for anyone who’s self employed or looking to become self employed. 

“I moved to the Shoalhaven two years ago,” Andy said.

“I could see unemployment was a hot topic, a lot of people were being laid off.

“I’ve had a big interest in the automation of industries.

“So I started speaking to people who are doing it themselves, finding ways outside of a box to earn a living, and there’s more than one way to earn an income.”

There are many ways to present information, but Andy has fallen in love with podcasting.

“Audio is huge at the moment because people’s time is precious,” he said.

“With video, you have to stop in your tracks, with audio it can be convenient when people are going to the gym, or driving to work.

“If I can make their day and increase the efficiency of their day, I’m happy.”

In episode three, Andy interviewed Stevino Vinetti of Italian Guild in Milton, who is finally starting to see the fruits of his labour.

In episode two, Andy interviewed Kelly Goltz of Kiki the Hippie Shop in Jervis Bay, who transitioned from a market stall to two bricks and mortar stores.

By connecting with the local community, Kelly has found she does not feel the negative impact of the traditional ‘off peak’ holiday seasons.

What many of the entrepreneurs have in common, according to Andy, is the ability to promote themselves.

“In the age of the internet and having a global reach, there’s a lot of opportunity to expand your business,” he said.

Episode one: Welcome to Self-Starter

Episode two: Scaling from a Market Stall to a Two Store Operation with Kiki – The Hippie Shop

Episode three: From 60 Dollars of First Day Takings to a Profitable Licensed Restaurant with Italian Guild in Milton

Episode four: Plants, Apps and Beer with Grow Hard Garden Centre Bomaderry