The Million Dollar Podcast interviews Tonee Sethi

In this episode of The Million Dollar Podcast, we sit down with Tonee Sethi, the founder of G’Day India magazine and a serial entrepreneur with a remarkable journey across multiple industries and countries. From launching a successful clothing business in New Zealand to navigating the world of hospitality and ultimately establishing one of Australia’s leading Indian community publications, Tonee shares his wisdom on business, resilience, and purpose.

His entrepreneurial journey is a testament to adaptability and foresight. He speaks about the challenges of launching a media business in the digital age, the power of storytelling in shaping a community’s image, and why he chose impact over chasing money. Tonee also reflects on how he overcame financial struggles, navigated business failures, and built a legacy that supports and uplifts the Indian-Australian community.

With a deep understanding of both business and life, Tonee offers invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasising the importance of integrity, resilience, and having a long-term vision. Tune in for a million-dollar conversation filled with insights, challenges, and inspiration.

From filmmaking to print media: how G’day India began

Tonee Sethi’s journey into media started unexpectedly. Having spent years in America, he returned with a dream of becoming a filmmaker. In 2006, he sold everything to invest in high-end filmmaking equipment, training his son as an editor and pursuing his passion. However, the industry wasn’t ready. “I knew video was the way to go, but it was too early. The internet was weak, and smartphones were still basic. People weren’t consuming media the way they do now,” he recalls.

Determined to tell stories in an engaging way, but realising video was premature, he was encouraged to shift to print media. That’s how G’Day India was born. What started as an alternative way to document and share community stories has now grown into one of Australia’s most recognised Indian news magazines, bridging cultures and reshaping narratives.

Building a million-dollar business in New Zealand

Before G’Day India, Tonee built a successful business in New Zealand. Raised in an environment steeped in film and media, his entrepreneurial instincts kicked in when his family faced financial hardships. At 18, with nothing to eat at home, he took charge as the family’s breadwinner. Setting aside his filmmaking dreams, he trained in hospitality under the prestigious Oberoi Group.

His business journey took him from India to the Middle East, then Australia, and eventually New Zealand, where he ventured into the clothing industry. His company thrived, expanding into the U.S., but the constant shuffling between countries made him reassess his priorities. “I had seen the best of both worlds—New York, Bombay, and New Zealand. But I realised life isn’t just about chasing dollars. I wanted a middle ground where I could build a meaningful future for my family.”

The million-dollar mindset: success beyond money

Tonee’s approach to business isn’t just about financial success—it’s about personal and spiritual growth. “A million-dollar business can be built in a month but is that the path you want?” he asks. For him, wealth isn’t just measured in money but in impact, ethics, and community contributions.

His philosophy is shaped by years of experience, learning that every business venture comes with challenges, and true success is about adaptability and resilience. “If I had only chased money, I would be in a different place today. Instead, I chose to create something that adds value to people’s lives.”

The challenges of building a print magazine in the digital age

Despite the dominance of digital media, G’Day India has thrived for over 18 years. Tonee attributes this to his commitment to positive storytelling. “We filter out negativity and focus on highlighting success, charity, and hard work,” he says. In the early years, Indians in Australia faced stereotyping. His mission was to change perceptions and showcase the contributions of the Indian community.

Now, with the shift toward digital, G’Day India is evolving. The next decade will see an expansion into digital platforms while maintaining its print presence for those who value tangible, credible journalism.

Million-dollar advice for entrepreneurs

Having interviewed over 550 entrepreneurs through his magazine, Tonee shares key insights for success:

Have a long-term vision. Short-term losses are learning opportunities.

Build with ethics and integrity. Trust and credibility will set you apart.

Add value to people’s lives. Businesses that genuinely help others stand the test of time.

Resilience is key. Every entrepreneur faces struggles—what matters is how you adapt.

His advice for young entrepreneurs? “If you fail, don’t call it a loss—call it tuition fees for life’s best business school.”

Looking ahead: the future of G’day India

With digital media on the rise, G’Day India is preparing for its next evolution. “The way people consume news has changed. Our focus is on expanding our digital footprint while staying true to our core mission—uplifting the community and telling meaningful stories.”

With a legacy of resilience, adaptability, and integrity, Tonee Sethi continues to inspire entrepreneurs to dream big, stay ethical, and create businesses that make a difference.

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