NZ Business Podcast - Paul Spain

• Neil Livingston - Chief Executive Officer at Kordia

  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.

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• Brooke Roberts - Co-Founder and 3EO at Sharesies

  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.

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• Simon Huesser - Co-Founder and Director at Huski

  Host Paul Spain sits down with Simon Huesser, co-founder and director of Huski & 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.

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• Justin Mercer - CEO at Jade Software Corporation

  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.

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• Ben Kepes - Co-Founder, Commentator and Investor

  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.

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