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.

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.

In this episode, Cristina Griffith from Gibbston Valley Winery shares her story of building a life and leadership style rooted in connection, resilience, and innovation. From growing her professional network into lifelong friendships to championing sustainable business, Cristina’s journey is a true reflection of Queenstown’s collaborative spirit. A conversation full of energy, insight, and the spirit of connection.

In this episode, our host Clare Irons chats with Gary Hough, Branch Manager of KiwiHarvest Queenstown & Central Lakes, the food rescue charity behind the iconic green van. Gary shares how one truck, a tight-knit team, and a whole lot of community spirit are helping redistribute over 200,000kg of surplus food a year to local charities — tackling both food waste and food insecurity.

We dive into the real challenges locals face in a high-cost region like Queenstown, the environmental toll of discarded food, and the bold plans underway to rebuild local food resilience. This one’s a powerful reminder that community collaboration isn't just nice to have — it’s essential.

Our host Clare Irons and Olivia discuss the transformative role of arts and culture in Queenstown Lakes. Olivia, in her four year tenure as the Director of Te Atamira, shares her journey from fine arts to global business and back to her cultural roots, emphasising how small actions can create bold change.

From community programs to art therapy and the need for creative infrastructure, this conversation is a powerful reminder of how the arts shape our world. Tune in and get inspired to take your own small, creative step today!

In this episode, Paddy Kluts talks with Rod Drury, founder of Xero, discussing his post-retirement projects, Queenstown’s growth, and his vision for New Zealand’s renewable energy future. He shares insights on mountain biking, sustainability, public infrastructure, and long-term economic strategies.

Rod envisions Queenstown as a testing ground for sustainable innovation. He believes New Zealand must leverage its renewable energy potential the way Saudi Arabia did with oil, making clean energy the backbone of its economy. His work in biking, transport, and green infrastructure aims to turn Queenstown into a model for the future of New Zealand.

New Lands isn't just a fashion brand; it's a vibrant manifesto for empowerment, engagement, and inspired living. Their collections are a means of self-expression, designed to challenge style conventions and celebrate modern femininity.

Join our host Clare Irons and Natalie as they discuss fashion as a catalyst for self-expression and adventure, redefining style norms and embracing the need for connection.

Serial entrepreneurs Nat and Kristen co-founded the investment platform Hatch. After a successful acquisition in 2021, the dynamic duo set their sights on a new mission: closing the gender leadership gap. With an estimated 132 years to close it, they took matters into their own stubborn hands. Enter Powrsuit, a career accelerator for women on the way up (including a place for allies). Launched in March 2024, it's already smashing every goal, proving that with the right playbook, real change doesn't have to take a century.

Tune into this insightful conversation with our host Clare Irons and Nat and Kristen from Powrsuit.

After leaving Wellington for the snow of the Southern Alps, Dave Hockly founded Data Story, a Queenstown based agency born to give marketing managers the data and expertise to get measurable growth. Dave recently finished a three part Data Driven Digital Series at Mountain Club, covering topics from conversion rate optimisation to social media strategy, including importance of understanding the customer journey. Join Dave and our host Paddy Kluts in this insightful discussion about all things data driven.

Ricky is passionate about building global-minded B2B SaaS companies. As the inaugural CRO at Simpro, he played a key role in its hypergrowth from a little-known startup to a global leader with over $100M ARR in USD and a billion-dollar valuation. 

Now, as a Co-founder & GP at VentureOn Partners, he works with exceptional B2B SaaS companies in Australia and New Zealand, creating custom growth strategies and leveraging his industry insights to help them succeed. Ricky also supports the ANZ tech ecosystem through mentoring, speaking, and hosting the 'SaaSy Talk Unfiltered' podcast. Tune into this insightful conversation between Ricky and Paddy Kluts.