Host Paul Spain sits down with Rowan Simpson, Chairman of the Hoku Group and author of "How to Be Wrong." Discover the intriguing journey of Trade Me, Xero, Vend, and Timely as Rowan shares insights from his new book, on building successful companies and the importance of asking the right questions. With candid discussions on New Zealand’s startup ecosystem and investment strategies, this episode offers valuable lessons on understanding the intricacies of the tech ecosystem.

A big Thanks to our show partners One NZ, Spark, HP, 2degrees and Gorilla Technology.

Join host Paul Spain and Finn Hogan (Caffeine Daily) as they explore tech news and insights including:

• Tū Ātea's plan to launch NZ's first commercial Private 5G network at Wellington port
• Ivo’s Legal tech startup US success
• Wakapuāwai fund boost to digitise mental health resources
• New Zealand's Emission targets
• Musk's bid for OpenAI
• Google's ambitious quantum computing timeline

Plus, a look at HP Omnibook Ultra Flip laptop and more!

Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Listen in as Paul Spain and Brett Roberts (Creative CAM), dive into the world of tech developments and governmental innovations. This episode covers pivotal topics such as AI safety guidelines for NZ government agencies, the implications of quantum computing in New Zealand, and the fascinating use of AI in pest control. Brett also shares insights on the long reaching impact of Callaghan Innovation and the government's decision to disestablish it. Tune in for an engaging discussion packed with the latest tech news, insights.

A big Thanks to our show partners One NZ, Spark, HP, 2degrees and Gorilla Technology.

Host Paul Spain is joined by financial advisor Darcy Ungaro (Ungaro & Co.), as they explore the latest tech news, and take a closer look at the cryptocurrency landscape. Darcy shares insights from his experience as a financial advisor and discusses the balance between being your own bank and the risks involved with cryptocurrency. The conversation also covers crypto firm Ledger co-founder survives kidnapping, the emergence of open-source AI platform DeepSeek, making waves as a potential game-changer in the AI landscape but are there hidden dangers? Plus, we also delve into future of TikTok, Open AI’s Stargate Project and Trump’s pardoning of Silk Road's creator Ross Ulbrich.

Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Marian Johnson joins Host Paul Spain, and shares her journey within New Zealand’s Tech sector, including her role as the former chief executive of Ministry of Awesome, and her current roles as Founder and CEO of CareerWise and chair for Electrify Aotearoa Women Founder Programmes and the NZ Hi-Tech Trust. Together they discuss the significance of the NZ Hi-Tech Awards and its role in highlighting and celebrating the country's innovative tech achievements. They explore the importance of fostering diversity, attracting global talent, and the necessity of governmental, immigration and educational policies to further enhance the NZ Tech ecosystem. Tune in to discover the inspiring stories and exciting developments shaping the future of technology in New Zealand.

Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Join Josh Webb (Hypr NZ) and host Paul Spain as they delve into cybersecurity concerns following the alleged hacking incident on the U.S. Treasury. They explore key trends from CES 2025 including autonomous systems, innovative robotics and AI virtual training, and discuss New Zealand's pioneering geothermal projects. The episode also covers Northland internet outage and the impact of emerging satellite technology on rural connectivity, the impending U.S. TikTok ban, and Meta’s controversial AI-generated personas and shift to a community-based moderation model and more.

Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Listen in as host Paul Spain and guest Adrian Smith, CEO of BlinkPay, dive into the dynamic world of digital banking and fintech. Adrian sheds light on BlinkPay's innovative journey, highlighting their partnership with the Bank of New Zealand and the development of modern financial solutions. The conversation also touches on challenges related to fraud and the importance of customer data control. Together, Paul and Adrian unravel the complex landscape of fintech, emphasising the role of APIs and the future of digital marketplaces in making financial services more accessible and efficient. Join us as we navigate the ever-evolving world of technology in the finance sector.

Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Join host Paul Spain and Levi Fawcett, founder of Partly as Levi shares insights from All Goods, delves into the complexities of the automotive industry, and discusses Partly's mission to revolutionise car parts procurement. Discover his journey from Rocket Lab's innovative culture to addressing a $1.9 trillion market with groundbreaking solutions. Fawcett emphasizes ambition, transparency, and passion in tackling global challenges, offering valuable lessons in entrepreneurship and determination.

Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Join Paul Spain and Andy Patrick (Argus Tracking) as Andy shares insights into Argus Tracking and their fleet management solutions.

Plus tech news from the week including:

• Microsoft’s new NZ based data centre
• Fullers hydrofoil electric ferry
• Pause on Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill
• Township pitches in for CCTV surveillance
• ZURU Tech's Innovations in housing construction
• New York mystery drones
• GM U-turns on Cruise robotaxi

Thank you to our show partners One NZ, Spark, HP, 2degrees and Gorilla Technology.

Hear former Prime Minister Sir John Key (Director - Palo Alto Networks) and Misti Landtroop (Managing Director NZ- Palo Alto Networks), as they join Paul Spain to explore the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.

Sir John Key shares unique perspective drawn from his current and past experiences, including:

- Prime Minister of New Zealand

- Minister responsible of Special Intelligence Service (SIS) and Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB)

- Director at Palo Alto Networks

- Director at ANZ Bank

- Director at Air New Zealand

The episode is focussed on cybersecurity viewpoints - including predictions for 2025 from Unit 42, and reflects on the importance of continuous adaptation, education, and integration in the fight against cyber threats from various sources including powerful nation state actors. A range of other topics were discussed including weighing up the importance of privacy vs security.

Special thanks to our show partners 2degrees, One NZ, Spark, HP and Gorilla Technology.

Listen in as host Paul Spain and Renee Mateparae (Spark NZ) delve into Spark's plans for data centres, the benefits of 5G Standalone, transition from 3G and the role of AI in service enhancement and Spark's strategic vision for the future of telecommunications. Plus tech news from the week including:

• NZ banks' new scam protection tools
• Cheap phone charger sparks house fire
• Parking fines highlights cities limited parking options for Tradespeople
• Meta's $10B subsea cable project
• Australia's social media ban for under 16's

Thank you to our show partners One NZ, Spark, HP, 2degrees and Gorilla Technology.