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UQBA BizTalk

About

Get keen for some insightful business banter on BizTalk, your go-to podcast from UQBA. Interested in all things remotely business? We're bringing you laid-back chats with industry leaders, experts, and all-around fascinating people. Whether you're into startups, curious about career journeys, or just up for a good story, join us for a mix of fun and wisdom. Tune in to Biz Talk for a relaxed yet insightful peek into the minds of those who've made it happen.
NOTE: We are not directly affiliated with the University of Queensland (UQ).

Episode 1:  "Beyond the Balance Sheets: Insights from an Auditor" - Tanveer Waraich (BDO)

In this inaugural episode of our podcast, we delve deep into the world of auditing with Tanveer Waraich, a junior auditor from BDO.
Tanveer brings a fresh perspective to what many perceive as a numbers-only field. Through our conversation, listeners will discover the art and science behind auditing, exploring how it goes far beyond balance sheets and financial statements.He sheds light on the often-unseen, bigger picture aspects of auditing, including its impact on business strategy, risk management, and organisational integrity.

He shares compelling stories from his experience as a graduate, offering insights into how auditors navigate complex financial landscapes to uncover truths and add value beyond the figures. Join us as we unravel the misconceptions about auditing and learn how auditors like Tanveer are integral in shaping business transparency and ethical practices. This episode promises to enlighten anyone interested in the dynamics of accounting, the importance of accurate auditing, and the often-overlooked depth of this critical field.


Episode 2:  "Numbers with Narratives: The Art of Forensic Accounting" - Joshua Cunningham (Vincents) 

Join us in this insightful episode as we delve into the world of Forensic Accounting with Joshua Cunningham from Vincents. A field at the intersection of accounting, investigation, and law, involving the application of accounting expertise to legal problems and disputes. It’s a profession that requires not only a high level of attention to detail but also an understanding of how financial information can tell a broader story.

Joshua shares how forensic accountants go beyond traditional number crunching and play a pivotal role in painting a complete picture of financial situations, often with significant implications for individuals and businesses. Through his experiences, listeners will gain a deeper appreciation of how Forensic Accounting combines analytical acumen with a narrative approach, making it more of an art than a science.

 

Episode 3: "Duty, Diapers, and Dedication: Navigating Entrepreneurship as a Military Mom" - Carla McDonald
(Duty First Tax)

In this episode, we talk with Carla McDonald, a dedicated captain in the Australian Defence Force, full-time mother, and the force behind 'Duty First Tax,' her burgeoning startup. Carla unfolds the unique narrative of seamlessly juggling the demands of military service, parenthood, and entrepreneurship. Tune in as she shares the disciplined insights drawn from her business degree, military career and the entrepreneurial resilience that propels her startup. Carla's story is a testament to the importance of hard work, perseverance and positivity, and her tips and advice apply to anyone who is set on fulfilling their business and entrepreneurial dreams!

Episode 4: "Markets, Trading and Machine Learning. What the hell is a quant?" -Utkarsh Sharma (Optiver)

Calling all data enthusiasts! This episode of the UQBA podcast features Utkarsh Sharma, a UQ graduate with a Bachelor of Computer Science and Mathematics (majoring in Statistics and Machine Learning). Utkarsh interned at Optiver before landing his current role as a D1 Quant Researcher. In this conversation, we delve into the exciting world of quantitative finance, exploring:

  • The intricacies of machine learning models and feature engineering
  • The evolving landscape of AI and its potential impact on engineering jobs
  • Tips for aspiring quants on how to break into the field
  • How to prepare yourself for a successful career in trading

Join us as we unpack the world of quantitative research and explore the exciting career path of a D1 Quant Researcher.