The Puzzle Factory: Real Talk for NZ Electricians and Trade Businesses

The Puzzle Factory - Episode 6

Guest: Ronnie Tan – Creditworks

Episode Summary: In business, trust is everything—but how do you know if a customer is actually good for it? This week, Alex sits down with Ronnie Tan from Creditworks, a commercial credit expert who helps businesses navigate financial transparency, avoid bad debts, and stay ahead of financial risks.

But it’s not just about numbers—this episode takes an unexpected detour into deep-sea cod 🐟, uncovering the untapped potential of New Zealand’s natural economy. From business credit to the deep ocean, this one’s packed with insights, unexpected twists, and a few good laughs.

But that’s not all—somehow, this episode takes a big detour into deep sea cod 🐟 and the untapped potential of New Zealand’s natural assets. From the depths of the ocean to the depths of the balance sheet, this one is packed with insights, unexpected twists, and a few good laughs along the way.

What’s Inside?

🔹 How to vet your customers before they cost you money
🔹 Why business transparency = business success
🔹 The credit risks most NZ businesses overlook
🔹 A deep dive (literally) into New Zealand’s oceans and natural economy
🔹 The unexpected connection between business finance and deep sea fishing

About Ronnie: Ronnie is the guy you want on your side before things go wrong—a no-BS commercial credit expert helping businesses navigate financial risks and credit transparency. With years of experience in construction and trade, he knows exactly where businesses trip up—and how to avoid it.

Website: ⁠Creditworks

⁠Got Feedback or Want to Be on the Show?📩 Hit us up at [email protected]

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Blackout Electric - Episode 5
Guest: Seb Weaver – Blackout Electric 

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Alex sits down with long-time friend andBlackout Electric owner, Seb Weaver, for a conversation packed with laughs, business insights, and a deep dive into what it takes to build a standout family business. From carving out a unique space in the market to creating branding that resonates, Seb reveals the secrets behindBlackout Electric’s success—and the lessons he’s learned along the way. If you're looking to start your own business or just want to hear what it's really like behind the scenes, this episode is a must-listen!

About Seb:
Seb is the owner ofBlackout Electric, a business that’s quickly making a name for itself with standout branding and top-notch service. In this episode, he shares the highs, the lows, and all the laughs in between.

Website :Blackout Electric

Want to get in touch and give us your feedback or be a guest on the show?

Get in touch at:
[email protected]

The Puzzle Factory - Episode 4
Guest: Matt Melville - Rum and Que

Episode Summary:
In this episode, we catch up with Matt Melville, the founder ofRum and Que.Matt and Alex talk about his journey emigrating from Australia, working as a sparky, to starting a BBQ comp team, and finally turning his passion into a full-time business. Now,Rum and Que is a huge success, and Matt’s story is all about following your passion and making it happen. We also share a few laughs and reminisce on some mischief from our past—after all, we’ve been mates for years!

About Matt Melville:
Matt Melville is the founder ofRum and Que, a popular BBQ  brand in NZ. Originally from Australia, Matt moved to NZ, worked as an electrician, and eventually found his love for BBQ. After starting a BBQ competition team, he turned that passion into a business. Today,Rum and Que is one of NZ's most loved BBQ brands, and Matt’s journey is a true inspiration.

Want to know more about Rum and Que?

www.rumandque.com

Discount Code for 10% of atwww.rumandque.com  - NZTG10

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Hosts: Alex & Tait – Business Growth Expert

Episode Summary:
In this episode ofThe Puzzle Factory, Tait shares 5 actionable steps to prepare your business for 2025. From conducting a SWOT analysis to segmenting your customers, Alex offers practical strategies for strengthening relationships, improving your credit checks, and optimizing your time management. Tune in for easy-to-follow advice that will help you build a solid foundation for long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

1. SWOT Analysis: Identify your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats to create a focused business plan for 2025.
2. Customer Segmentation via Xero: Organize customers into A, B, and C groups and create strategies to re-engage each group.
3. Strengthen Business Relationships: Focus on key relationships—staff, customers, wholesalers, and partners—to drive growth.
4. Credit Checks: Make credit checks part of your process to ensure financial security.
5. Professional Development & Time Management: Schedule regular meetings, set clear goals, and manage your time effectively.

https://nztradegroup.co.nz/