David Downs on CAR T Therapy, Malaghan Breakthroughs & The Future of NZ Tech & Health
From a lymphoma diagnosis to becoming one of the first Kiwis to receive life-saving CAR T cell therapy, David Downs’ story is one of grit, hope, and purpose. In this episode, David opens up about his journey through failed chemotherapy to the pioneering CAR T treatment in Boston that gave him a second chance at life.Now an ambassador and trustee for the Malaghan Institute, David shares insights into their Phase 2 CAR T clinical trials set to transform cancer treatment in Aotearoa by next year – and reflects on what it takes to fund and scale world-class medical innovation in New Zealand’s tight philanthropic landscape.We also dive into the maturing NZ tech ecosystem, from Rocket Lab to Xero, and the power of a ‘pay it forward’ culture to drive future growth. David unpacks how national branding efforts like New Zealand Story are balancing humility with bold ambition on the world stage, and what’s next for regional innovation, including Technology Queenstown’s vision for a University of Otago campus to unlock talent pipelines and world-class research opportunities.Want more from David Downs and the Malaghan Institute? Join us at Mountain Club on Thursday 31 July, 12:30–14:30, for an unmissable panel with David, Dr Kylie Price, and Dr Lisa Connor.
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Laura Nicol: From Queenstown Roots to Global Tech Impact
In this episode of the Mountain Club Podcast, we sit down with Laura Nicol — startup operator, community builder, and host of the Calling Operator podcast. From pouring pints at Zephyr Bar to becoming Chief of Staff at Co Ventures, Laura's journey is one of bold pivots and purpose-driven impact.We unpack her deep love of Queenstown, reflections on burnout and self-care, and the power of community in fast-paced environments. With a move to Melbourne on the horizon, Laura shares her hopes for deeper connections, personal evolution, and Queenstown's potential as a future innovation hub.If you're navigating change or building something new, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a little Jack's Point perspective.
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Trailblazing Tourism: Tech, Touchpoints & Experience with Brad Rowe
What happens when bold ideas meet big mountains? In this episode, Paddy Kluts sits down with Brad Rowe to explore the evolution of tourism in Queenstown through the lens of experience, innovation and connection.From high-flying gondolas to gravity-defying mountain bike trails, Brad shares how Skyline is building unforgettable moments and reshaping the tourism model in Aotearoa. We talk big moves like the Queenstown cable car and small-but-mighty wins—like the legendary popsicle hotline at a Los Angeles hotel.Brad unpacks how tech is transforming the visitor experience, why community collaboration matters more than ever, and what it takes to stay ahead in a fast-moving industry. Whether you're a tourism operator, a curious traveller, or a future-forward thinker, this one's for you.
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How to Be Wrong: Rowan Simpson on Startups, Squiggly Paths and Why Wellington Won
Some founders make the news. Others build the future. Rowan Simpson is one of those quietly iconic figures who’s helped shape some of Aotearoa’s most successful tech stories—Trade Me, Xero, Vend, Timely—without ever chasing the spotlight.In this wide-ranging conversation, Rowan unpacks the art of getting it wrong (and why that’s okay). From his early days in Wellington’s tech era to investing in ideas that didn’t always go to plan, he shares what it really takes to build something meaningful—and why the best founders aren’t the loudest in the room.Rowan’s gift? He asks better questions. Ones that challenge the hype and centre what really matters: culture, founder-investor fit, and building for the long game. Whether you’re in the trenches of your own start-up or just love a good origin story, this episode is a masterclass in humility, insight, and seriously good storytelling.Plus, don’t miss Rowan in real life. We’re hosting the launch of his new book, How to Be Wrong, at Mountain Club Beach St on Friday 13 June. Space is limited—so if you’re keen to catch this conversation live, get in touch with the team.
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Scaling With Soul: John Wikstrom on 30 Years of Magic Memories, Culture and Courage
What does it take to scale a global business without losing your soul? In this powerful episode, Magic Memories founder John Wikstrom reflects on three decades of bold moves, honest leadership, and human-first values. From a spark in Queenstown to building a brand that spans continents, John opens up about the magic moment that started it all, the friendships that shaped his journey, and the resilience that carried him through crisis.He shares how integrity fuelled Magic Memories' global rise, what it means to scale culture across borders, and why mentorship comes in many forms. From leading through COVID to embracing biohacking and a more grounded lifestyle, this is a conversation about business, family, and the courage to stay true to your vision.Expect honesty, heart, and plenty of wisdom from a founder who’s still shaping the future - with soul.
Conversations with industry leading minds, business extraordinaries, creative thinkers and valued members of Mountain Club. Empowering business, commercial and community growth, we are here to discover what drives our members to connect. Jointly hosted by Paddy Kluts and Clare Irons, we're here to do cool sh!t with cool people.
New Zealand