NZ Business Podcast - Paul Spain

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 bought 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.