NZ Business Podcast - Paul Spain

Host Paul Spain speaks with Lachlan Nixon, founder and managing partner of Motion Capital, a New Zealand venture capital fund focused on climate tech. Lachlan explains why New Zealand’s climate tech sector is gaining momentum. He shares lessons from funding startups, taking products global, validating customer demand early, and managing the high-risk maths of venture capital, including Motion Capital’s 15-company portfolio strategy and standout investments.Special thanks to our show partners: One New Zealand, Outrun Global and Gorilla Technology

Join Paul Spain as he sits down with Strahan Wallis, one of Aotearoa’s top marketing, communications, and public relations leaders.From his humble beginnings on a Raglan farm to leading agencies in London, Los Angeles, and New Zealand, Strahan Wallis shares pivotal lessons from working with global brands, crisis management, and leading transformations at companies like Clemenger Group and Porter Novelli. This candid conversation explores values-based leadership, navigating career cliffs and how Kiwi grit can power international success.Whether you’re a business owner or aspiring leader, this episode offers rare insight into world-class campaigns, building resilient teams, and leading with integrity through change.Thanks to our show partners One NZ, Outrun Global and Gorilla Technology.

Paul Spain sits down with JD Trask, founder of Raygun and AutoHive. JD Trask shares insights from his early passion for computers, his entrepreneurial leap with Mindscape at just 23, and the evolution of Raygun into a successful SaaS export.The conversation covers capital raising lessons, the challenges and wins of expanding into the US market, product-led growth versus enterprise sales, and the transformative potential of AI in business. Find practical takeaways on innovation, scaling recurring revenue, and embracing AI for business success.The New Zealand Business Podcast is brought to you by One NZ, Outrun Global and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Jarra Borman, Director of Strategy & Growth at Zeald and Outrun Global. Jarra's career has spanned radio broadcasting, digital transformation, and the rise of remote global teams. He experienced the disruptive shift from traditional to digital media during his time at Yellow, before helping drive Zeald's growth and co-founding Outrun Global, a business helping New Zealand companies boost productivity through remote staffing and emerging technologies, including AI.Along the way, Jarra Borman discusses the personal challenges that forced a rethink of his approach to work, what New Zealand businesses can learn about leveraging global talent and automation, and why now is the time to rethink not just the tools we use, but how we work altogether.Special thanks to our show partners: One New Zealand, Outrun Global and Gorilla Technology

Join Paul Spain for a conversation with Greg Macpherson, founder of Pharmacy Direct and SRW Laboratories and a pioneering figure in New Zealand’s pharmacy, supplement, and longevity sectors. From building Pharmacy One and pioneering online pharmacy ventures to advancing biotech innovation and longevity research, Greg shares lessons from decades of business growth, disruption, and reinvention. Learn how he identified emerging opportunities, navigated setbacks, built science-backed brands, and stayed ahead of changing consumer trends. Greg also explores the future of health, wellness, and longevity, and what it means for business leaders, investors, and consumers.Packed with practical leadership lessons and strategic insights, this episode offers valuable takeaways for anyone interested in building resilient, future-focused businesses.Thanks to our show partners One NZ, Outrun Global and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain is in Cromwell with Mike Casey, the entrepreneurial force behind Electric Cherries, co-founder of Fishburners and GradConnection and CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa. Mike shares his journey from a tech startup founder in Wellington and Sydney to pioneering sustainable, fully electric farming in Central Otago. Mike shares insights on business challenges, the real story behind his successful exit, practical tips for entrepreneurs, and a passionate case for electrification and climate-friendly business in Aotearoa.Special thanks to our show partners: One New Zealand, Outrun Global and Gorilla Technology

Tony Falkenstein shares valuable lessons learned from building the Just Water brand, moving the Just Life Group from the NZX to the Unlisted Securities Exchange (USX). He also unpacks his passion for fostering entrepreneurship in schools, the impact of business education, and the driving factors behind successful startups.We hear Tony’s approach to building strong company culture, embracing technology and AI, and supporting the next generation of Kiwi innovators. Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and real-world insights from a true leader in New Zealand business.Special thanks to our show partners: One New Zealand, Outrun Global and Gorilla Technology

Jamie Beaton shares how Crimson has expanded over the past five years entering new markets internationally, including a highly successful return to India and a major leap forward in the United States. Along the way, Jamie shares what it’s really like building global teams, navigating acquisitions, learning from top-tier mentors like Julian Robertson and Sir John Key, and why a thirst for learning and relentless adaptation is at the heart of Crimson’s journey. Whether you’re a founder, leader, or simply curious about what it takes to build a unicorn in the education space, you won’t want to miss this insightful and inspiring episode.The New Zealand Business Podcast is brought to you by One NZ and Gorilla Technology.

Paul Spain is joined by Phil Thomson, Co-founder and CEO of Auror, to explore his journey from a career in law to building one of New Zealand’s standout global tech success stories.Phil shares the early influences that sparked his entrepreneurial drive, the key decisions that shaped his path, and the realities of scaling a software company from New Zealand into major markets including Australia, US and UK. He offers candid insights into startup culture, global expansion, and the discipline and resilience required to grow a high-impact business.If you’re interested in ambitious thinking, scaling globally from New Zealand, and the personal journey behind entrepreneurship, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Special thanks to our show partners One New Zealand and Gorilla Technology.

Paul Spain sits down with Dawn Engelbrecht, CEO of Kitchen Studio and a trailblazer in both business franchising and governance. Dawn Engelbrecht shares her inspiring journey from a small UK mining town to building an international childcare franchise empire, SKids, and leading business transformations in New Zealand. She opens up about the practical realities of franchising, navigating risk and regulation across countries, the importance of knowing your numbers, and what it takes to help franchisees succeed. Whether you’re interested in business growth, scaling franchises, or effective leadership, Dawn Engelbrecht’s insights on success, setbacks, and learning from experience will leave you inspired and informed.Special thanks to our show partners One New Zealand and Gorilla Technology.

Join Paul Spain for a compelling conversation with Nick Astwick, outgoing Chief Executive of Southern Cross Health Society. Nick shares his journey from a Christchurch schoolboy who once dreamed of joining the police force to leading some of New Zealand’s most influential organisations.Drawing on his experience helping to launch Kiwibank and guiding Southern Cross Health through major strategic transformation, Nick offers hard-won insights into leadership, building intentional cultures, and creating high‑performing teams. He reflects on the importance of aligning personal purpose with professional success, leading with intention, and his vision for New Zealand’s high‑growth business future.The New Zealand Business Podcast is brought to you by One NZ and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Shane Smith, co-founder of Education Perfect, as they dive into Shane's journey of co-founding a startup in his parents' garage with his brother Craig. The conversation traces how Education Perfect evolved from a simple vocabulary learning tool into an adaptive, curriculum-wide online platform now used by 1.8 million students across Australasia. Shane talks about the pivotal moments and challenges faced, from winning their first business competition and building trust with schools, to scaling a company with limited resources and ultimately achieving a major acquisition valued at over NZ$450 million. Shane shares insights on growing a high impact edtech business, working alongside his brother, navigating funding and commercialisation, and transforming educational outcomes with innovative technology. The New Zealand Business Podcast is brought to you by One NZ and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Claudia Batten, a respected voice in technology and entrepreneurship. From her childhood in Karori to her pivotal role in selling her tech firm Massive to Microsoft for over $200 million, Claudia Batten shares her unconventional journey through business, law, and leadership; moving from a law career to the heart of the New York tech scene, co-founding industry-shaking companies, navigating mergers and acquisitions, and being comfortable with discomfort. Claudia opens up about the essential role of resilience, lifelong learning, and team alignment, the power of curiosity, and what it means to be a disruptive thinker in today’s world.Special thanks to our show partners One NZ and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Sam Vye, founder and CEO of Syos Aerospace - a New Zealand and United Kingdom business that has moved with remarkable speed pioneering world-class autonomous uncrewed vehicles, ranging from helicopters to advanced maritime and land platforms, serving both civil and defence sectors around the globe. Sam Vye’s journey is packed with adventure, resilience, and remarkable lessons in leadership. Discover how his early passion for problem-solving led him through geophysics, exploration roles across continents, and eventually into the world of drone and unmanned vehicle technology. Hear insider stories about a last-minute Arctic rowing expedition, building drones for the Galápagos and unexpected contract wins. Get ready for insights on adaptability, leadership, fostering fast paced innovation and building a business on the global stage.The New Zealand Business Podcast is brought to you by One NZ and Gorilla Technology.Book your Cyber Risk Reduction Review session now (limited availability): https://gorillatechnology.com/cyber-rrr

Lachlan Murray, Founder and CEO of Robomate shares his journey building Robomate from a small robotics idea into a nationwide home‑automation leader. Lachlan founded Robomate in 2018 and bootstrapped the company through early setbacks, refining the model through relentless problem‑solving and customer focus. His determination helped Robomate become one of New Zealand’s fastest‑growing companies, ranking 5th in the 2025 Deloitte Fast 50 with 408% revenue growth over 3 years. Lachlan shares insights on scaling up, building resilient teams, and how serving people and discipline are at the heart of Robomate’s success.Book your Cyber Risk Reduction Review session now (limited availability)https://gorillatechnology.com/cyber-rrrSpecial thanks to our show partners One NZ and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Sam Kidd, Co founder and CEO of LawVu, for a look at what it takes to build a global legal tech company from New Zealand.Sam shares about assembling an exceptional team, maintaining culture across continents, navigating remote work, and the personal highs and lows that come with building something meaningful. This episode delivers practical insights, honest reflections, and inspiration for anyone growing a company in a rapidly changing world.The New Zealand Business Podcast is brought to you by One NZ and Gorilla Technology.Book your Cyber Risk Reduction Review session now (limited availability): https://gorillatechnology.com/cyber-rrr

Host Paul Spain sits down with Rob Woolner, Managing Director of Autex Acoustics. Discover Rob’s fascinating journey from his childhood in England and early years in the police, to leading a global manufacturing company shaping sustainable buildings in New Zealand and beyond. You’ll hear how this New Zealand company started as a humble textile manufacturer and transformed into a global leader in sustainable acoustic solutions, supplying major clients like Google, Amazon, and Disney.Rob shares candid stories about his own personal growth, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and the company’s commitment to innovation, people, and culture, and a surprising connection to the Warriors rugby league team! Listen in for insights into Kiwi business success, sustainability, and leadership.The New Zealand Business Podcast is brought to you by One NZ and Gorilla Technology.

In this episode, Paul Spain sits down with Bowen Pan, a technology leader, advisor and investor.Bowen shares about his family's early immigrant experiences, launching his first startup as a university student, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career—including being a key force behind Facebook Marketplace. Hear behind-the-scenes tales of innovation at Facebook, lessons learned from his time at Trade Me and Stripe, and why he’s passionate about helping New Zealand’s tech sector reach new heights. Packed with relatable anecdotes and valuable insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in business, technology, and the Kiwi entrepreneurial spirit.The New Zealand Business Podcast is brought to you by One NZ and Gorilla Technology.Book your Cyber Risk Reduction Review session now (limited availability): https://gorillatechnology.com/cyber-rrr

Join host Paul Spain in this retrospective Interview recorded in November 2020 with Jamie Beaton, founder and CEO of Crimson Education. From starting the company at just 18 to leading a global team and launching New Zealand’s first online high school, Jamie Beaton shares his fascinating journey through entrepreneurship, scaling internationally, and redefining what’s possible for Kiwi students. Listeners will get an inside look at the Crimson story, from the early days of educational hustle to navigating funding rounds, leadership challenges, and expansion into new markets. Get ready for an inspiring conversation packed with insights on ambition, innovation, and the future of education.Thanks to our show partners One NZ and Gorilla Technology

Paul Spain sits down with Kiwi entrepreneur Aaron Ward for a conversation about his journey pioneering tech companies like AskNicely and his latest venture, Huckleberry. Aaron Ward shares insights about embracing risk, learning from setbacks and the impact of positive feedback on both employees and customers. Packed with honest reflections, practical lessons, and a peek into the future of voice AI feedback, this interview is a must-listen for anyone passionate about innovation, leadership, or starting their own business in New Zealand and beyond.The New Zealand Business Podcast is proudly sponsored by One NZ and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Janine Grainger, co-founder of Easy Crypto, to explore her remarkable journey from early ventures and corporate roles at PwC, Westpac, and Air New Zealand, to building one of New Zealand’s leading crypto platforms. Janine shares insights into navigating compliance, managing explosive growth and achieving a successful exit. Her story is packed with lessons on resilience, adaptability, and innovation. This conversation offers practical advice and stories that reveal what it takes to build a successful business from scratch.Special thanks to our show partners One NZ and Gorilla Technology

Host Paul Spain sits down with Christopher Boyle, co-founder of Fabrum, one of Canterbury’s standout high-tech companies. Christopher Boyle shares the journey from Fabrum’s inception, born from university friendships and a passion for engineering—to becoming a global leader in cryogenic and composite technologies. The conversation dives into Fabrum’s groundbreaking work with superconductivity, liquid hydrogen, and collaborations with icons like NASA and Rolls Royce. Along the way, Christopher Boyle discusses the challenges of innovation, surviving market shifts, and the vital role of Kiwi ingenuity in building world-class tech from Christchurch. If you’re keen to learn about New Zealand’s impact on innovation and the future of sustainable energy, this interview delivers insightful stories and inspiration straight from the frontlines.Thanks to our show partners One NZ and Gorilla Technology.

In this episode host Paul Spain sits down with Neil Livingston, Chief Executive of Kordia, for an inspiring and insightful conversation about leadership, transformation, and the evolution of Kordia, one of New Zealand’s most critical communications companies. Neil Livingston shares stories of innovation, strategic thinking, and lessons learned from working with iconic brands and pioneering change in the tech sector.He also discusses building trust, embracing transparency, and fostering culture in organisations both large and small, while offering a behind-the-scenes look at Kordia’s rich heritage and its exciting vision for New Zealand’s future connectivity and security.This episode is packed with business wisdom, leadership anecdotes, and a passion for making a difference in New Zealand business.

In this episode host Paul Spain is joined by Brooke Roberts, co-founder and co-CEO of Sharesies. Brooke shares her inspiring journey from selling lollies out of her school locker to co-founding one of New Zealand’s most innovative investment platforms. She discusses the pivotal role of mentorship, the power of partnerships, and the challenges building a business from the ground up. Brooke also reflects on the collaborative 3EO leadership style that has helped shape Sharesies’ success. Whether you're passionate about startups, leadership, or the future of finance, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for entrepreneurs at every stage.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Simon Huesser, co-founder and director of Huski and soon to be launched Smoco. Hear how Simon and his wife Meika transformed a simple idea—keeping beer cold for longer—into an internationally recognised brand now sold in over 50 countries. Leveraging their backgrounds in marketing, design, and business to build Huski from scratch into a business that delivers award-winning products.Full of practical business lessons, anecdotes from Simon’s early career, and the realities of innovating and growing a global business from New Zealand, this conversation is sure to inspire budding entrepreneurs and business leaders alike.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Justin Mercer, CEO of Jade Software to explore his journey from a competitive Christchurch upbringing to leading innovative tech company Jade. He dives into stories from working around the globe—from door-to-door sales in Christchurch, to summer camps in the US, and building his career in Spain, Africa, and Australia.Justin opens up about the challenges of business transformation, leadership lessons, his strategic approach to scaling Jade’s business internationally and the power of New Zealand tech innovation on the world stage.

In this episode, host Paul Spain sits down with Ben Kepes—entrepreneur, investor, board director, and co-founder of Cactus Outdoor—for a candid exploration of his journey in business and technology. Ben shares the squiggly line of his career, including founding one of New Zealand’s beloved outdoor brands. He offers honest insights into the challenges of co-founder relationships, the evolution of Cactus, navigating tough decisions like shifting manufacturing offshore, and the lessons learned from successes and failures alike. Ben also dives into his perspective on New Zealand’s tech landscape and the importance of curiosity, resilience, and staying true to your passions.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Daniel Hopkirk, Founder and Managing Director of BcgCrave, an innovative agency born from the merger of Crave Global and BCG2. Daniel shares his journey working with international marketing campaigns for brands like Red Bull, Kerry Group, and Virgin Australia. He shares valuable lessons learned from building relationships, navigating global markets, and starting his own agency here in New Zealand. Daniel also dives into the art of scaling through strategic mergers, the importance of a brand’s “why,” and his approach to creating campaigns that truly matter. It’s an inspiring conversation packed with practical insights for business leaders, marketers, and anyone hungry for creative thinking in the NZ business landscape.

Host Paul Spain is joined by Matthew Hayter, Founder and Chief Product Officer at Projectworks—a New Zealand-born software platform that’s making waves in the professional services sector around the world. Projectworks has evolved from a humble side project into a rapidly growing global business, serving clients across New Zealand, Australia, the US, UK, Canada, and more. Matt shares his journey from small-town Gisborne beginnings to spearheading a company now valued at over $100 million and recently named High Tech Emerging Company of the Year at the NZ Hi-Tech Awards, with candid insights on navigating startup hurdles, growing an international team, transitioning leadership roles, and focusing on solving real problems for customers. Whether you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or just love a great business story, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Kiwi innovator Sir Ian Taylor. From his humble beginnings in rural New Zealand—where he vividly recalls the first time his family home was lit by electricity—to founding Animation Research Ltd and revolutionising sports broadcasting technology worldwide, Ian shares tales of pivotal life decisions, setbacks, lessons in leadership from the army, and how Māori values have shaped his business philosophy. Sir Ian’s story is a powerful reminder to follow your curiosity, look for opportunity in every challenge, and—above all—to get out of bed and seize the day.

Host Paul Spain is joined by Rachel King, founder of Quotient, to dive into the art (and necessity) of working at "human speed." With a background as a civil engineer and expertise in psychology, Rachel unpacks why our obsession with busyness doesn’t equal value, how digital overload and workplace pressures can drive burnout—and, most importantly, practical strategies for leaders and teams to prioritise meaningful work, set boundaries, and thrive without running on empty. Whether you’re a startup founder powering through long hours or part of a corporate team drowning in emails, this episode is packed with relatable stories, actionable tips, and a refreshing perspective on finding real fulfilment and impact at work.

Join host Paul Spain as he sits down with Dr. Simon Malpas, scientist, entrepreneur, and chief executive of Kitea Health. Explore Dr. Simon’s inspiring journey from his global research experiences to co-founding successful medical device companies. Explore how Dr. Malpas' innovative work is poised to transform lives with a groundbreaking micro-implantable pressure-sensitive device. Discover insights on overcoming challenges, raising capital, and the potential of New Zealand as a hub for technological advancement. This episode is a compelling narrative of science, business, and passion, paving the way for future Kiwi-led medical technologies.

Host Paul Spain sits down with Grant Straker, the CEO and co-founder of Straker, a global leader in AI-driven language and translation technologies. From his early days growing up in New Zealand and his time as an elite paratrooper in the British Army, to his journey into entrepreneurship and eventual public listing on the Australian Stock Exchange, Grant shares a fascinating tale of innovation, perseverance, and growth.Listen in to hear about the challenges and triumphs of building a tech company from the ground up, the impacts of AI on the translation industry, and Grant's insights into balancing business with personal life.

Host Paul Spain is joined by Simon Bridges, former leader of the National Party and current CEO of the Auckland Business Chamber. Simon shares insights into the decision-making processes that have shaped his career path from law to Parliament and eventually into the business world and reflects on key moments of risk and opportunity. Simon also offers a rich perspective on New Zealand's business landscape, touching on the challenges and opportunities in the current economy, the role of technology in business growth, and the importance of fostering innovation. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on leadership, business strategy, and economic resilience in New Zealand.

Hear from Sir John Key, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, as he shares his journey from humble beginnings to national leadership. Key discusses his upbringing, his tenacity and strategic mindset in the world of currency trading, and the pivotal moments that led him to a career in politics. Key shares insights into his time as Prime Minister, the importance of surrounding oneself with talented people, and his post-political ventures into technology and innovation. Whether you're interested in business, politics, or personal success, this episode offers valuable takeaways and an intriguing glimpse into the life and career of one of New Zealand's prominent figures.

Join host Paul Spain and Grant Lynch, Managing Director of Unlimited Potential Real Estate, as Grant shares his journey from his roots in West Auckland, navigating the challenges of the real estate sector to stepping out and co-founding UP Real Estate with Barry Thom. Discover how Grants personal values, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity played pivotal roles in his entrepreneurial success. Don't miss this opportunity to glean valuable lessons on leadership, innovation, and personal fulfilment from Grant's narrative of resilience, strategic growth, and gratitude.

Host Paul Spain is joined by Levi Fawcett, founder and CEO of Partly. Levi shares how his unique background fuelled his problem-solving skills and entrepreneurial spirit, eventually leading Partly to secure New Zealand's largest Series A funding of $37 million. Join us as Levi reflects on his pivotal experiences at Rocket Lab, the trials and breakthroughs of running multiple ventures, and the audacious ambition needed to build a global company aimed at revolutionising the car parts industry. Gain insights into his learnings on navigating challenges, fostering a high-performing team, and strategic pivoting in achieving business success.

Join host Paul Spain and guest Mark Cochrane, CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi New Zealand, as Mark shares his journey from the scenic landscapes of South Otago to leading one of the most acclaimed agencies in Asia Pacific. With engaging anecdotes from his diverse career—from marketing execution at BT Cellnet to expanding Saatchi's presence in Bangkok and Australia—Mark offers valuable insights into the art of fostering meaningful client relationships, innovative leadership, the adaptability and work ethic of New Zealanders, and embracing a "nothing is impossible" mindset in the ever-evolving landscape of global marketing.

Join host Paul Spain as he sits down with Kaila Colbin, founder and CEO of Boma. Kaila shares her wealth of experience in entrepreneurship and leadership, from orchestrating impactful TEDx events to her collaboration with the Crusaders Rugby team, Kaila shares her thoughts on the balance between courage and empathy in leadership, with engaging discussions on personal growth, the practicalities of business, and fostering innovation. This episode is packed with valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders alike.

Host Paul Spain sits down with seasoned business leader Mark Powell (former Chief Executive, The Warehouse Group) to delve into an inspiring journey of leadership, resilience, and transformation. Mark shares invaluable lessons from the frontline to the CEO's desk.Discover how he navigated the complexities of unionised environments, spearheaded significant operational turnarounds, and adapted strategies to fit diverse market contexts. Mark’s reflections on servant leadership, work-life balance, and the importance of continuous learning provide a treasure trove of wisdom not just for aspiring leaders but for anyone striving to make an impact.

With a wealth of experience across business growth, marketing strategies, technology, and consulting, Jon Bridge has led Refresh Renovations to achieve over half a billion dollars in completed renovation work. Jon shares insights about their successful business model, the challenges and strategies of franchising and international expansions in the renovation industry.

Andrew Young, Chief Executive of the Cancer Society’s Auckland Northland division join's Paul Spain to discuss his learnings over 20 years of leadership and governance in the business and charity sector. Andrew shares his journey, driven by personal loss and a commitment to reducing cancer’s impact. Listen and learn from a key New Zealand leader, plus support Daffodil Day and the fight against cancer.Donate at Daffodil Day 2024

Julia Grace is an international speaker, educator, author and award-winning recording artist. In this episode Julia shares personal stories of overcoming mental health challenges and turning them into teachable moments. With practical tips for creating a support system, navigating workplace challenges, and the value of facing feedback constructively, Julia offers invaluable insights on mental wellbeing, communication, and the power of turning personal challenges into impactful opportunities.

Serge Van Dam is a renowned figure in New Zealand’s tech startup scene, with a diverse background in FinTech, PropertyTech, AI, and SaaS. Recognized as a fintech thought leader, Serge also invests in promising Kiwi software ventures, earning the Arch Angel Award for his substantial impact on the startup ecosystem. In the episode, Serge shares his personal experiences, including start up challenges, corporate roles, and supporting NZ tech companies to build successful businesses.

On this episode host Paul Spain is joined by Mitchell Pham, a Vietnamese-New Zealand Tech innovator and Strategic Advisor. Mitchell shares his remarkable journey from escaping Vietnam as a refugee to becoming a prominent entrepreneur and reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his approach to business, including navigating crises, building resilient teams, and fostering international trade connections. From his early struggles to the challenges of steering his businesses through economic downturns, Mitchell's insights offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Misti Landtroop is the managing director for Palo Alto Networks in New Zealand, a key global cyber security leader. Misti has spent over 20 years in key leadership roles ranging from early stage start-ups through to Fortune 100 companies, including over a decade at Microsoft. Listen as Misti shares her insights on leadership, career challenges, and personal growth.

In this episode Stew Darling, founder of Unstoppable Force, shares invaluable insights drawn from his military intelligence background and leadership expertise. From strategic interviewing techniques to the significance of resilience in high-stakes environments, Stew provides thought-provoking perspectives on decision-making, leadership, and personal growth.

Jamie Hunt, founder of Pressio, co founder of 2XU and professional triathlete, shares his journey from athlete to entrepreneur. Discover how Jamie's unwavering passion for retail, ethical business practices, and innovative product development have propelled his ventures to international success.

Join host Paul Spain in conversation with digital marketing innovator, Ben Guerin, co-founder of the international agency Topham Guerin. Listen as they dive into the challenges and successes of agency growth, the power of social media marketing, and the emergence of platforms like TikTok. Ben shares insights on leveraging data, reaching new markets, and the lessons learned from political campaigns. Discover how businesses can stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In this episode, Paul Spain is joined by Michael Rebelo, CEO of Publicis Group in Australia and New Zealand. Michael takes us on a journey through his fascinating career, from his time in London's advertising industry to his current role with Publicis Group. Join us as we delve into the challenges and opportunities of marketing and digital transformation. Hear Michael's thoughts on the evolving media landscape, consumer expectations and fostering a culture of collaboration within a diverse business landscape.