Runway HQ is the leading entrepreneurial start up and incubator support ecosystem in Australia.
In this episode Brandon Burns, Head of Community for Runway HQ talks about Runway Virtual, a digital platform designed to help businesses collaborate, learn and connect with other like businesses, investors, mentors and coaches. Some of the features include online learning, forums and webinars.
Additionally, as a trained actor, Brandon provides his insights into how leaders can maintain a positive presence as they navigate their businesses through a crisis.
Transcript
Murray Smith: Brandon Burns, welcome to Gripping Business Tales.
Brandon Burns: Thanks, Murray. Great to be here.
Murray: Now, we always start with the same two questions. What’s one personal success and one professional success you’ve had recently?
Brandon: Yeah, great question. Personally, I’ve recently gotten married, so that was a big milestone! And professionally, we’ve launched our virtual learning platform with Runway HQ. It’s something we’ve been planning for a while, and seeing it live and helping founders already has been pretty rewarding.
Murray: That’s brilliant. Congratulations on both fronts! Now for those who don’t know, tell us a little more about Runway HQ.
Brandon: Sure. Runway HQ is a not-for-profit based in Victoria. We’re focused on supporting early-stage entrepreneurs and startups through a mix of programs, mentoring, and spaces to work and connect. Our goal is to build the entrepreneurial capability of regional areas and help founders turn ideas into real, scalable businesses.
Murray: Fantastic. And the new virtual platform — what prompted you to develop that?
Brandon: COVID, for one. Like many others, our face-to-face programs were disrupted. But beyond that, we realised that regional founders can’t always come into a co-working space or attend an in-person event. So we created an online platform with structured learning, tools, and access to mentors — all self-paced, but with that human support element that’s key to success.
Murray: That’s a strong value add. What’s been the feedback so far?
Brandon: Really positive. People are finding it easy to use, and most importantly, they feel less isolated. Entrepreneurship can be lonely, especially in the regions. This gives them a sense of community and guidance.
Murray: Absolutely. Now, I know you’ve had some experience with EOS — the Entrepreneurial Operating System. How has that influenced what you do?
Brandon: Hugely. EOS has helped bring structure and alignment to what we do. We’ve used parts of the framework internally to build a clear vision, get the right people in the right seats, and stay accountable. I’ve also recommended it to founders we work with — because it helps you shift from working in the business to working on the business.
Murray: Is there a particular EOS tool or concept that stands out for you?
Brandon: The Vision/Traction Organiser. That one-pager has been a game changer. It forces clarity — on who we are, what we’re aiming for, and how we’re going to get there. It’s something we revisit regularly to stay focused.
Murray: Outside of EOS, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to founders?
Brandon: Don’t build in isolation. Whether it’s mentors, peers, advisors — surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. And keep testing your assumptions. The best founders I’ve worked with are always curious, open to feedback, and willing to pivot.
Murray: Brilliant advice. So if people want to connect with Runway HQ or try the virtual platform, how can they do that?
Brandon: Just head to runwayhq.co — all our programs and the virtual platform are there. Or connect with me on LinkedIn — I’m always happy to chat.
Murray: We’ll include those links in the show notes. Brandon, thanks again for coming on and sharing your story — and for the great work you and Runway are doing for the startup community.
Brandon: Thanks, Murray. Appreciate the opportunity.