For episode 217, we sat down with Tim Bateman. From a highly respected professional rugby player who commanded the midfield to the founder of a rapidly-scaling wellness brand, Tim’s journey is a powerful study in discipline, peak performance, and translating the hard-won lessons of elite sport into groundbreaking business success.

In this episode we talk about the mental fortitude required to transition from the pressure of the playing field to the relentless startup environment, how the intense focus on physical recovery during his professional rugby career became the blueprint for his successful seven-site studio, the key entrepreneurial lessons he learned while competing at the highest level, and his mission to democratize the elite recovery practices once reserved only for athletes.

Plus a few laughs about his most brutal on-field encounters, the strange diets of professional rugby teams, and how he manages the natural "dissatisfaction" that drives all high performers.

Check out Tim: @timbateman.nz

Check out Ostudio Global: @ostudio_global

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For episode 215 we sat down with Troy and Nic from Lead Head.

What started as a few mates with an idea has grown into one of New Zealand’s most recognisable lifestyle brands, built on creativity, community and a good dose of chaos.

In this episode we talk about the story behind LeadHead’s rise — from custom golf hats to international orders — and how a casual podcast appearance turned into a full business partnership.

We also dive into their approach to building culture through authenticity, how they’ve stayed true to their roots as the brand grows, and why every decision, no matter how big, still comes down to a game of paper, scissors, rock.

Check out Lead Head:

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For episode 214, we sat down with Daniel Lastovicka.

From his family’s journey from Czechoslovakia to New Zealand to building a career as an Army officer, hunter, and endurance athlete, Daniel’s story is one of purpose, discipline, and pushing beyond limits.

In this episode we talk about the creation of Project Beyond the Ranges — Daniel’s self-made Movember challenge combining a 5km swim across Lake Tekapo, a mountain run over the Two Thumb Range, and a 200km ride back to Christchurch — and the deeper mission behind it: raising awareness and action for men’s mental health.

We also dive into the lessons the military teaches about leadership and resilience, the connection between hardship and growth, and how showing up for yourself and others can change lives.

Check out Daniel:

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For episode 213, we sat down with Mike Keast.

From working on roofs at nine years old to running multiple successful roofing businesses, Mike’s story is one of consistency, resilience, and backing yourself through the ups and downs of business.

In this episode we talk about staying focused when things get tough, what it really means to lead by example, and how mindset and momentum can carry you through any season. We also dive into lessons from David Goggins, the role of AI and technology in the trades, and how doing the hard things day after day shapes both the person and the business.

Check out MK Roofing:

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For episode 212, we sat down with Nick Inkster.

From mopping floors at 4am to running one of Christchurch’s most iconic hospitality groups, Nick’s story is one of grit, growth, and doing what it takes to make it happen.

In this episode we talk about building OGB in memory of his dad, the lessons learned from expanding to eight venues, what it’s really like managing 140 staff, and how Christchurch’s next few years might just be its golden era. Plus a few laughs about pub life, loyal locals, and the wild ride of turning one bar into a hospitality group that helped shape a city.

Check out BUSINESS:

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For episode 211, we sat down with Sacha Coburn.

From failing her first ballet exam to leading one of New Zealand’s most loved café brands, Sacha’s journey is full of grit, humility, and lessons in leadership that stick.

In this episode we talk about learning to back yourself even when you feel out of your depth, why failure is the best teacher, the balance between winging it and over preparing, and how people not spreadsheets ultimately make or break a business. Plus some laughs about ballet tights, Harvard awkwardness, and the joy and chaos of building Coffee Culture.

Check out Coffee Culture:

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For episode 210, we sat down with Ant and Paul from Rosefern Homes.

From humble beginnings fixing houses to building a property development company grounded in values, Ant and Paul’s approach is practical, people-first, and unapologetically hands-on.

In this episode we talk about leveraging social media to find property deals, building a business that reflects your values, overcoming resistance to putting yourself out there, and the power of small, consistent actions. Plus some laughs about Pilates, smoked meats, and why authenticity beats flash every time.

Check out Rosefern Homes:

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For the first episode of Season Four, we’re taking it back to where it all began — in the car on the side of the road.

What started as part of the 10 Million in 10 Years Challenge here has since grown through The Loft, multiple Distinct studios, and now into a brand-new Distinct space with fresh energy and a new podcast name 'Across The Table with David Melse'. 

In this episode, David reflects on the journey so far, the people and sponsors who’ve supported it, and what’s ahead for the podcast. Expect a refreshed set, more returning guests, and new conversations that continue to dive into the stories, ideas, and businesses shaping life in New Zealand and beyond.

Check out ALT.:

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For episode 208, we sat down with Tristan Bailey.

From building a national electrical and security company to launching a SaaS business on the side, Tristan’s approach to leadership is fast, people first, and unapologetically hands on.

In this episode we talk about sales psychology, long-term relationships, retention strategies, and how to grow a team that actually sticks. Plus some wisdom on low voltage tech, cold beers, and why sleep might be optional.

Check out Vision Systems:

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