Powering Your Career Podcast Unveiling the Stories Behind Australia’s
Energy Leaders

Welcome to the Powering Your Career Podcast, a show dedicated to exploring the energy transition and the diverse professionals shaping its future. Hosted by  David Smith, founding partner and director of  West Energy and West Recruitment, this podcast delivers authentic conversations with a diverse group of senior leaders from Australia’s energy sector trailblazers.

Whether you’re an experienced energy professional or considering a career transition into the industry, this podcast will equip you with:
✅ Career development insights from top energy executives
✅ Leadership lessons in a rapidly evolving sector
✅ Perspectives on the energy transition and its challenges

✅ Insights into the diverse backgrounds, personalities, and leadership styles of Australia’s energy leaders 
✅ Mental health and wellness strategies for thriving in a high-pressure industry

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Why Listen to Powering Your Career?

The energy transition is one of the biggest shifts in Australia’s economy, and it’s being led by people who are navigating new technologies, policies, and challenges. Our goal is to bring you real stories and actionable advice from energy leaders who have built successful careers and are shaping the future of the sector.

  • Actionable Career Advice:

    Thinking about a career in energy? Learn how to leverage your transferable skills, position yourself for new opportunities, and stay ahead of industry trends. Whether you're an experienced professional or new to the sector, you'll gain practical takeaways to advance your career.

  • Inspiring Stories from the Energy Sector

    Behind every successful career is a story of challenges, breakthroughs, and perseverance. Hear firsthand from leaders who have navigated the complexities of the energy transition, overcome obstacles, and played a role in shaping Australia’s energy future.

  • Navigating the Energy Transition:

    The shift to renewable energy and a decarbonized future presents both challenges and opportunities. We explore emerging technologies, policy changes, and workforce transformations, helping you stay informed and ready for what’s next.

  • Mental Health & Wellness:

    The energy sector is fast-paced, high-stakes, and constantly evolving—but success shouldn't come at the cost of mental well-being. Our guests share their personal strategies for managing stress, building resilience, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance in this demanding field.

  • Meet Your Host: David Smith

    David Smith has over 20 years of experience in recruitment and leads a team specialising in placing professionals across the entire energy supply chain. His passion for connecting great talent with transformative opportunities makes him the perfect host to guide you through these conversations.


    Learn More About David

Episode 1 - Guy Chalkley

In this inaugural episode of Powering Your Career, host David Smith (Founding Partner & Director, West Energy & West Recruitment) sits down with Guy Chalkley, CEO of Endeavour Energy NSW, to discuss:

His career journey from accountant to energy leader, the energy transition & why people—not just technology—will drive its success, advice for career changers moving into the energy industry, leadership lessons & building high-performing teams and mental health in high-pressure industries.


Australia’s energy sector is evolving rapidly, and Guy’s insights offer valuable career guidance for both seasoned professionals and those looking to transition into the industry.

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Episode 2 - Daphne Yao

Episode 2: Leading with Curiosity & Courage – Daphne Yao, CEO of Valent Energy ⚡🎙️ In this episode of Powering Your Career, host David Smith (Founding Partner & Director, West Energy & West Recruitment) sits down with Daphne Yao, CEO of Valent Energy, to explore her incredible career journey - from corporate law to leading the charge in energy retail, infrastructure, and green hydrogen. 


Daphne’s path is a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and saying yes to new opportunities. She shares her insights on leadership, the energy transition, and why diversity in decision-making is key to driving real change.

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Episode 3 - Andy Evans

In this episode of Powering Your Career, David Smith chats with Andy Evans, Co-Founder/Chairman of Oceanex Energy and a pioneer in Australia’s renewable sector. From AFL to law to launching major offshore wind ventures, Andy’s journey is anything but conventional.


He shares insights on:
✅ Bold career transitions
✅ The future of offshore wind and renewables in Australia
✅ Embracing risk, uncertainty, and entrepreneurship
✅ Mental health in high-pressure industries


A must-listen for anyone forging a path in energy, leadership, or business!

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Powering Your Career in the

Energy Industry 

Whether you're an experienced energy professional looking for your next leadership challenge, or you're considering transitioning into the energy sector using your transferable skills, West Recruitment is your strategic partner in career success.

With our deep industry expertise, extensive network of top-tier talent, and passion for connecting professionals with the right opportunities, we help shape the future of Australia’s energy workforce.


Let West Recruitment Energy - Power Your Next Career Move 🚀⚡

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