Between Two Beers Podcast

Sam Spratt is one of New Zealand's most successful and fearless jockeys.In this episode, Sam opens up about the brutal reality of life in the saddle — the crashes, the comebacks, and the constant risk that comes with chasing victory. She talks about her remarkable two-decade career at the top of NZ racing, the brain injury that nearly ended it all, and the mental fight to return to the sport she loves.We also dive into her journey as a new mum at 40, the weird fitness required to be a jockey, how prize money actually works, and what it's really like competing against your friends every weekend.It's an honest, raw, and inspiring look at resilience, motherhood, and the wild world of New Zealand racing — from one of its true trailblazers.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Hambassadors, Che and Steven take you behind the scenes of Between Two Beers – but things don't quite go to plan.We take you behind the scenes of a full-blown geography controversy when Che proudly welcomes a crowd in Ōtorohanga to “Waikato”. The silence that followed said it all.Along the way, the guys talk through:Bruce Holloway's emotional recognition at the WaiBOP Football AwardsThe “King Country incident” and what they learned from itFive favourite Rules for the Modern Gentleman, inspired by GQHonest feedback, awkward moments, and lessons from leadershipBuying houses, book clubs, bets and behind-the-scenes chaosHambassadors is the Between Two Beers spin-off that gives you the real stories behind the mics – candid, funny, and occasionally uncomfortable.Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brent Impey has shaped two of New Zealand's most powerful industries - rugby and media.From negotiating a $777 million MediaWorks deal to steering NZ Rugby through the Silver Lake saga, Brent's career has been defined by high-stakes leadership, big personalities, and even bigger decisions.In this wide-ranging conversation, he opens up about:How he saved NZ Rugby from financial collapse during CovidThe inside story behind the Silver Lake dealClimbing from a small-town lawyer to CEO of MediaWorksThe challenges of modern media, and why TV is a “sunset industry”What makes a great CEO and ChairmanHis battle with cancer, views on retirement, and what still drives him todayBrent's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and ruthless honesty — a masterclass in leadership from the man who's been at the centre of NZ's most controversial boardrooms.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Accidental Business Owners, Steve shares his experience from the Icehouse Owner Manager Programme — what he learned about leadership, the brutal honesty of 360 feedback, and how it's changing the way he runs Between Two Beers.Di and Steve unpack courage, confidence, and what it means to grow a creative business sustainably — without burning out or losing the magic.This episode was brought to you by Xero. Supercharge your business with the help of Xero accounting software. With more ways to pay, clearer cash flow, and powerful insights all in one place, you can say ‘so long' to endless admin and hello to business control like never before. Try Xero free for 30 days, terms apply. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're re-sharing one of our favourite episodes ever, with Hayley Holt.Hayley has lived an incredible life – and there's so much to learn at each chapter. One of NZ's highest profile broadcasters is on the podcast this week! We find out what young Hayley was like, the path from dancer to snowboarder, her difficult relationship with booze, her TV career and her challenging road to motherhood. …And that's just the tip of the iceberg.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Go behind the scenes of the Stan Walker episode and inside the madness of a typical Hambassadors recording.This week, Steve and Che share:- What happened after Stan Walker's interview (when he started singing in the studio!)- A night at the rugby packed with familiar faces (Taika, Foxy, Sharyn Casey, Brodie Kane & more)- Bree Tomasel's wisdom on making decisions and starting messy- A few new “Hambassadors” life hacks and off-camera laughsIf you love the Between Two Beers deep dives, you'll love this honest, chaotic, and funny peek behind the curtain.Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stan Walker's story is one of survival, transformation, and purpose.In this conversation, Stan opens up about the abuse and trauma of his childhood, the complicated relationship with his parents, and how those experiences shaped the man he is today. He reflects on the highs of fame after winning Australian Idol, the dark side of the music industry, and the battles he's faced with public perception and health - including the life-changing surgery to remove his stomach after a genetic cancer diagnosis.Stan also shares his journey of reclaiming his Māori identity, the cultural fire that projects like Mt. Zion and Aotearoa lit inside him, and why his purpose now is about building legacy, healing, and serving his community.What you'll learn in this episode:Stan's experience growing up in an abusive householdHow trauma and family shaped his outlook on lifeThe truth behind public rumours and industry pressuresHis stomach cancer journey and living without a stomachReclaiming identity through te ao Māori and indigenous connectionWhy he values legacy, purpose, and family over fameThis episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we're asking the BIG question:

Al Brown is one of New Zealand's most beloved chefs — but behind the TV fame (Hunger for the Wild, Masterchef), award-winning restaurants (Logan Brown, Depot, Federal Deli, Best Ugly Bagels), and his role as a Kiwi food icon lies a story of adoption, perfectionism, reinvention and resilience.In this wide-ranging conversation, Al opens up about:Walking away from fine dining and Logan BrownBuilding Depot into one of NZ's most iconic restaurantsHis drive for perfectionism — and the toll it's takenFriendship, family, and what happiness looks like at 60Why fritters, pies and bagels matter in our Kiwi food storyThis episode is funny, raw and deeply human — a look inside the life of a man who helped redefine New Zealand's food culture. Enjoy!This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Hambassadors, we cover it all: parenting chaos, podcasting lessons, new beers, and one unforgettable message from Laura McGoldrick.Laura shares the powerful reminder that “one day you'll put your child down for the very last time” - a truth about time, parenting guilt, and family that hit us both hard.But it's not all serious…- Bon accidentally smashes Billy in the face during a parents vs kids football match.- Seamus bombs with the worst MC joke at prizegiving.- We reveal our very own Ambassador Hazy IPA (cheers, Good George).- And we share the biggest interviewing lessons from 6 years of Between Two Beers.Plus, movie rankings (Moana vs Predator?!), an epic Betterman event, and a sneak peek at our next guest — Al Brown.Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Gurney is one of the greatest multisport athletes New Zealand has ever produced - but this podcast is about so much more than racing.In this episode, Steve takes us far beyond the finish line.We explore:Why winning 9 Coast to Coast titles didn't bring him peaceThe childhood trauma that lit his fireHow a near-death illness nearly ended everythingHis struggles with depression and identityDeep work on mental rewiring through NLPNavigating masculinity, aging and purpose after sportStories from Dancing With the Stars, full-body waxing and being naked on Breakfast TVAnd what keeps him emotionally moved at the Coast to Coast finish line to this dayThis is a masterclass in introspection, reinvention, and the quiet pursuit of peace - from someone who has truly lived multiple lives.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's really happening with Che & Di?In this Accidental Business Owners sit-down, we unpack “the incident,” the viral clip that hit over 250k views versus where we're at 10 weeks down the track.Steve sets the scene, then Di breaks down why tough coaching landed, and Che explains the shift - speaking up, reducing cognitive load, and learning to say “no” without guilt.We get into perception vs reality, the clip economy, unseen aftercare calls, cultural layers, and how values, relationships, and work collide. If you're a founder, creator, or manager navigating candour, boundaries, and public scrutiny, this one's gold.This episode was brought to you by Xero. Supercharge your business with the help of Xero accounting software. With more ways to pay, clearer cash flow, and powerful insights all in one place, you can say ‘so long' to endless admin and hello to business control like never before. Try Xero free for 30 days, terms apply. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olympic BMX star Sarah Walker has lived through it all: the glory of an Olympic silver medal, the pain of breaking 18 bones, and the terrifying reality of a serious brain injury that changed her personality.In this episode of Between Two Beers, Sarah reveals:The mindset shift that turned fear into bravery.How she rebuilt her confidence after devastating injuries.What it really takes to compete at the Olympics when one mistake can end your career.The influence of legendary sports psychologist David Galbraith and the lessons she carried beyond sport.This is not just a story about BMX. It's about resilience, mental strength, and how to keep believing when the world tells you to stop.

After his first appearance on Between Two Beers, broadcaster Mark Stafford never expected what would happen next. Listeners reached out to share how his raw honesty about mental health struggles gave them strength - and in some cases, even helped save lives.In this special follow-up, Staffy joins us again to reflect on those messages, the impact his story has had, and what he's learned about the power of speaking openly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gilbert Enoka - the All Blacks' long-time mental skills coach - shares the untold stories behind New Zealand rugby's culture, resilience, and leadership.Across 23 years and 304 tests and 2 World Cup victories, Gilbert worked with coaches and players like Sir Graham Henry, Sir Steve Hansen, Ian Foster, and legends including Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, and Tana Umaga.In this episode, he opens up about:Building the All Blacks' culture of standardsThe crisis of identity that nearly killed the hakaLessons from failure at the 2007 Rugby World CupWhy pressure is not the enemy, but a lifestyle“Gilbertisms” like Take the Sausage, Wishbone–Backbone–Funnybone, and Winge up, not downWorking with Chelsea FC, England Cricket, and The NSW BluesWhether you're a rugby fan, coach, or leader, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve has returned from Block 1 of the Icehouse Owner Manager Program with fresh clarity - and as promised, he's letting us in on the secrets he's discovered: growth, overwhelm, and the little decisions that change everything.In this episode:Why courageous conversations beat procrastination (eat the ugliest frog first)Culture > strategy (and how the Reflections team built culture remotely)Staying close to partners and your team (what appreciation actually looks like)Building a Hamilton studio so epic guests come to us - and we get our time backA very honest moment about “knowing your numbers” (assets, liabilities, equity)If you're juggling family, cash flow, travel, and leadership - you're not alone. This series documents the real learnings as they happen.This episode was brought to you by Xero. Supercharge your business with the help of Xero accounting software. With more ways to pay, clearer cash flow, and powerful insights all in one place, you can say ‘so long' to endless admin and hello to business control like never before. Try Xero free for 30 days, terms apply. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning investigative journalist Jared Savage has spent 15+ years on New Zealand's crime frontlines - covering everything from the rise of meth and Mexican cartels, to patched gangs, political scandals, and the country's biggest criminal trials.In this episode we go deep on Savage's reporting - the brutal realities of the meth trade, how gangs built multi-million dollar drug empires, and the international pipelines flooding New Zealand with narcotics. Savage also lifts the lid on the hidden connections between politics, money, and organised crime.If you've ever wondered how gangs really operate in NZ, what role overseas cartels play, or what it takes to expose corruption at the highest levels - this conversation is essential listening.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Barnett's episode is on track to be our biggest ever – but it almost didn't come out. Simon was worried it was too self-indulgent. Since it aired though, the feedback has been incredible – for us, and for him.In this Hambassadors episode we talk about what's happened since the release, the messages we've had, and how it's landed. We also cover:Our five favourite songs of all timeSeamus' weight loss journeyWhich guest would survive The Hunger GamesAnd so much more! Subscribe and follow Between Two Beers for more weekly content.Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction4:36 Why Simon Barnett Almost Pulled The Episode31:33 Seamus' Weight Loss43:33 Best Listener Questions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marc Ellis has lived a life worthy of a dozen chapters. From Scarfie hijinks at Otago University to becoming an All Black and Kiwi league international, he carved out a career across rugby and league with Otago, North Harbour, the Blues, Highlanders, Warriors and Kiwis.Off the field, Marc co-founded Charlie's Juice, eventually selling it to Asahi for $129 million, and became one of New Zealand's biggest TV personalities on SportsCafe, Game of Two Halves and beyond – often alongside his infamous partner-in-crime, Matthew Ridge.In this wide-ranging conversation, Marc reflects on:The wild tours and “Susie” at the 1995 Rugby World CupSportsCafe chaos and his dynamic with RidgeyThe rise and sale of Charlie'sLife after fame, media stunts and what he's up to nowHis views on success, fatherhood and living out of the spotlightA true Kiwi icon – this is Marc Ellis like you've never heard him before.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've been putting this off for months… but in this episode of Accidental Business Owner, Di finally forces us to sit down and build the scoreboard we've been avoiding.What does that mean? It's the unfiltered look at the numbers that really drive our business —-sales, downloads, social media, guest performance, coffees, proposals, even studio bookings. The levers that show if we're actually growing… or just making noise.It's uncomfortable. It's funny. It's honest. And it's exactly what we needed.If you've ever avoided looking at your numbers or felt nervous about measuring success, this conversation will hit home.What you'll hear in this episode:Why a P&L only tells half the storyThe dashboard that shows the truth in real timeWhat we should have been tracking all alongHow small levers (like coffees, content, and guests) change everythingDi holding us accountableThis episode was brought to you by Xero. Supercharge your business with the help of Xero accounting software. With more ways to pay, clearer cash flow, and powerful insights all in one place, you can say ‘so long' to endless admin and hello to business control like never before. Try Xero free for 30 days, terms apply. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deeply personal episode, Simon Barnett opens up about the love story he shared with his late wife Jodi, her courageous battle with brain cancer, and the life-changing lessons her loss has taught him.Simon talks about the early days of their relationship, the moment they received the devastating diagnosis, the realities of living with grief, and how his faith, family, and friends have helped him through.This is a conversation about love, loss, and resilience — and a tribute to Jodi's enduring legacy.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on.Timestamps:0:00 Why Simon Barnett is so private4:30 On grief and losing his wife Jodi9:00 Going to counselling10:30 Talking to God12:30 Family life, kids & parents remarrying18:00 Funny story: competitiveness & missing flights20:00 Being a terrible handyman (clip)23:00 Becoming “Chiefy” to his grandkids30:30 Early career & Telethon story (clip)33:20 What Now TV show days38:20 Why he stayed in Christchurch (offers abroad & Auckland)49:00 The Tom Cruise story: humiliation to meeting him55:30 Dancing With the Stars1:04:00 Being a caregiver (clip)1:10:00 The month after Jodi's passing1:18:00 Finding faith at age 301:21:00 Return to More FM & leaving Newstalk ZB1:29:40 Raising daughters1:35:02 Masculinity after raising four children1:40:33 The key to happiness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Hambassadors from Between Two Beers, Seamus and Steve catch up on life, events, and a whole lot more – with a special guest appearance from Jay Reeve.From hanging out with All Blacks coach Ian Foster, to sharing our five favourite books, we cover it all. Jay opens up about a potential ADHD diagnosis, we dive into shocking men's health statistics, and Seamus shares his own mental health journey. Plus, there's our Between Two Bets segment, listener questions, and a preview of next week's Simon Barnett episode.Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark.Timestamps00:00 Catching Up04:45 MC'ing & Hanging with Ian Foster07:30 Our 5 Favourite Books14:00 Jay Reeve Joins the Show & Potential ADHD Diagnosis23:00 Shocking Men's Health Statistics29:00 Seamus' Mental Health34:00 Between Two Bets36:00 Listener Questions39:00 Simon Barnett PreviewIf you enjoy Between Two Beers, you'll love this mix of laughs, honesty, and great conversation with Jay Reeve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Viv Conway and Jo Cummins are the fearless founders of Girls Get Off.Join us for one of the most honest, hilarious, and insightful episodes of Between Two Beers yet.We unpack the challenges of building a sex-positive brand in New Zealand, why vibrators are still taboo, the orgasm gap, men's egos in the bedroom, porn vs reality, and how a billboard prank led to 6,000 people visiting a fake dating website.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in sex, relationships, startups - or just a damn good story.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on.

In this episode of Accidental Business Owners, we reflect on the realities of running a growing business - the kind you don't see on Instagram.From building a new podcast studio, navigating cashflow, and rethinking our business priorities… to a cancelled flight that derailed an entire strategy day – we unpack what happens when the pressure quietly builds up behind the scenes.Steve opens up about an unexpected emotional moment during a key advisory meeting - and what it revealed about time, energy, and how running a “dream” business can still weigh heavily.We talk:Growth vs. sustainabilityWhy building your own studio doesn't guarantee more freedomThe weight of juggling business, family, and griefWhat we're focusing on next (and what we're not)This episode was brought to you by Xero. Supercharge your business with the help of Xero accounting software. With more ways to pay, clearer cash flow, and powerful insights all in one place, you can say ‘so long' to endless admin and hello to business control like never before. Try Xero free for 30 days, terms apply. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeremy Wells has one of the most fascinating careers in New Zealand media - and in this episode, we cover it all.From Eating Media Lunch to Seven Sharp, Havoc to the ACC, Jerry reflects on the wild ride that's taken him from alternative TV icon to mainstream household name.We talk broadcasting pillars, radio antics, the price of opportunity, family, fame, and what the future holds. There's laughter, nostalgia, and a few surprising confessions (including one about Wanganui Collegiate), Jerry was a huge influence on us growing up, and this one meant a lot.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Hambassadors, we unpack a pretty intense couple of weeks - from advisory calls and missed flights to tears, burnout, and some much-needed honesty.Steve shares what led to a moment of reflection that caught even him off guard, and we talk about what it's like to keep the podcast and business going when life feels full-on.Also in the mix:Our Christchurch trip and emotional breakfastMCing the Four Square conferenceOff-mic gold from Jay Reeve's episodeA sex dream that sparked an unexpected group chatThe closest we've come to packing it all inThanks for being along for the ride.Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark.Watch or listen to Hambassadors wherever you get podcasts! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Timoti Te Moke's story is one of the most powerful we've ever shared.He was raised in violence, survived years in boys' homes and prisons, and spent his youth deep in gang life. At one point, he was known as “the Jake the Muss of South Auckland.” But Timoti didn't just escape the cycle—he transformed his life.Today, he holds a PhD, lectures on Māori health, and is helping break the very system that once trapped him.In this episode, we trace Timoti's life from his early years of trauma and crime to the moment everything started to change—step by step. He speaks openly about addiction, gang culture, his time in prison, surviving a wrongful manslaughter accusation, and how he found healing, purpose, and redemption later in life.This is not just a story of survival—it's a masterclass in transformation.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this listener-fueled Q&A episode, Seamus and Steve are joined by Di to tackle the biggest questions around business growth, personal development, coaching breakthroughs, and how to define success when the rules keep changing.You'll hear about the real-time coaching moment that changed everything, why Steve cried in a café (again), and the difference between a mentor and a coach that everyone should understand.What you'll learn:The surprising power of safe-but-tough coachingMentorship vs coaching: what you need and whenHow to align personal and business growthThe evolution of success metrics (from vibes → revenue → profit)Why emotional moments are part of building something realWhether you're growing a podcast, scaling a business, or just figuring it out week by week — this one's packed with insight, humour, and honesty.This episode was brought to you by Xero. Supercharge your business with the help of Xero accounting software. With more ways to pay, clearer cash flow, and powerful insights all in one place, you can say ‘so long' to endless admin and hello to business control like never before. Try Xero free for 30 days, terms apply. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He's been a member of the NZSAS – New Zealand's elite special forces unit - and is now an America's Cup-winning grinder with Emirates Team New Zealand.In this episode we talk about what it takes to pass SAS selection, his insane physical feats (including breaking NZ's 500m indoor rowing record), how he emailed his way into Team New Zealand, what it's like grinding in the cyclor cockpit, the pressures of running the team's comms systems, and how he balances it all with being a father of three.We also hear about his time managing MIQ during Covid, a wild story about “Goose Eggs”, and his new project - “The Forge” - an intense personal development course that sounds like Outward Bound on steroids.This was a quietly extraordinary chat. Marius isn't someone who loves the spotlight, but the more we heard, the more impressed we were - and it sounds like everyone who's worked with him feels the same.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Hambassadors, we reveal the stories that didn't make the final cut of our chat with Jay Reeve - and why.We also dive into some spicy listener questions, including:– The biggest lies we've told on the podcast– Guests we've disagreed with– Our most cringeworthy podcast moments– And… a surprising discussion on female pleasureWatch or listen to Hambassadors wherever you get podcasts!Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dame Noeline Taurua is one of New Zealand's most successful and respected coaches — and one of the most compelling minds in high performance sport.In this raw and revealing episode, Noeline opens up about her journey from a childhood shaped by violence, to leading the Silver Ferns to World Cup glory just eight months after taking the job. We talk about the pressures of elite coaching, the spiritual wisdom she receives from a monk advisor, and how she juggled motherhood with one of the toughest jobs in sport.We also dive into her Māori identity, her unconventional coaching methods, the heartbreak of missing out on the Ferns job the first time, and how she built a culture that brought a team back from rock bottom.It's honest, wise, emotional and powerful — a masterclass in resilience and leadership.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this 1:1 episode, Steve sits down with Di Foster for a raw, honest conversation about the busy trap so many business owners fall into — and how to escape it.They unpack:The art of saying no without guiltHow to reclaim your time and energyWhy "busyness" is often just bullshitThe fear of letting go – and what happens when you finally doImposter syndrome, and backing yourselfDi's personal goals, mindset shifts, and what she's still learning on her journeyIf you've ever felt overwhelmed, stretched too thin, or unsure when it all stops — this one's for you.This episode was brought to you by Xero. Supercharge your business with the help of Xero accounting software. With more ways to pay, clearer cash flow, and powerful insights all in one place, you can say ‘so long' to endless admin and hello to business control like never before. Try Xero free for 30 days, terms apply. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jay Reeve opens up about the behind-the-scenes magic of Jay & Dunc, the wild ride of building Pals into one of NZ's most beloved drinks brands, and the personal battles that shaped him — including IVF, fatherhood, and what real male friendship looks like in 2025.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Hambassadors, we react to an unexpected Leigh Hart clip where he rates our show(!), sparking a trip down memory lane to their 2020 lockdown episode - complete with tales of divorce, DIY TV, and late-night chaos.We also dive into:- The Golden Era of New Zealand television – has anything topped SportsCafe, Back of the Y, or Eating Media Lunch?- The top “icks” giving women the ick in 2025 (spoiler: some of them are brutal)- Plus the usual mix of hot takes, deep dives, and behind the scenes podcast momentsWatch or listen wherever you get podcasts!Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we sit down with one of New Zealand's most quietly influential tech investors and founders: Rowan Simpson.As employee #3 at TradeMe and an early investor in Xero, Rowan helped build two of NZ's biggest startup success stories. But his story goes far deeper than money. He shares how he went from near-bankruptcy to the $750M TradeMe exit, his role in backing Kiwi founders, his philosophies on parenting, time, failure, AI—and why ‘business is like a rollercoaster' metaphor is bullshit.

In this special Accidental Business Owners episode, we mark our first year of going full-time on Between Two Beers - and one year if working with Di. We tackle:- The frenetic pace of building your own business (

Robyn Malcolm is a national treasure.From Outrageous Fortune to After the Party, this is Robyn like you've never seen her.She talks going sober, acting alongside Antony Starr, solo parenting through stardom, the power of older women on screen, her sons' hilarious texts, and why she's not holding back on the current Government. This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on.Enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Hambassadors we go behind the scenes of our recent podcast with Ian Foster, unpacking the making of the blockbuster interview — what went into it, what surprised us, and why it might be our best work yet.We share a few unseen moments, voice messages from listeners, and wildly mixed YouTube feedback — from teary-eyed praise to brutal radio-sport-style takedowns. There's insight into our into our creative process, from guest prep to managing “fluffy vs gritty” lines of questioning.Plus: Auckland City's 10–0 Club World Cup loss, a chaotic Sex.Life unboxing segment, a 4-year-old's hilarious voice note, and teasers for upcoming bangers like Robyn Malcolm and a mystery SAS legend.Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ian Foster is speaking up.In his first full interview since stepping down as All Blacks head coach, Foster sits down to share the raw, unfiltered story of one of the most dramatic periods in New Zealand rugby history.He opens up about the media pile-on, the near-sacking after the Ireland series, the pressure-cooker Ellis Park test that saved his job, and the growing tension with NZ Rugby as Scott Robertson circled in the wings.Foster also reveals the emotional toll behind the scenes - from the conversation with Dane Coles that reduced him to tears, to the loyalty shown by Sam Cane, Ardie Savea, Aaron Smith and other senior All Blacks when everything was falling apart.This is the definitive account of Ian Foster's All Blacks journey - told his way.This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on.Enjoy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really feel like to run your own business?In this special listener Q&A episode of Accidental Business Owners, Steve, Seamus, and business coach Di Foster answer your questions.We talk about the moment we left our 9-to-5s, what it means to truly “back yourself,” how to avoid getting wiped out by tax, and why many small business owners are unknowingly sabotaging their goals. There are laughs, tears, raw truths, and incredibly practical takeaways.We also dive deep into emotional burnout, when to hire (and how) and the surprising things business ownership reveals about you.

This week on Between Two Beers, we talk to David Downs.This episode is a little bit different as it was filmed in front of a live audience at The Icehouse. There's about 150 in the room, and David is the perfect guest for our first ever recorded live pod.David is a former comedian, he's a business owner. He's the CEO of New Zealand Story and the chairman of the Ice House with a ridiculous business CV. And he's also a terminal cancer survivor.And we got all of his story in this epic chat. The energy in the room was great, and this is something we're keen to do a lot more of in future. Huge thanks to the team at The Icehouse for helping us put this on, we had a great night and are super excited to share it with you. This episode is brought to you by the TAB. Got a hunch? Download the new app today and get your bet on.Enjoy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Hambassadors, Seamus and Steve take you behind the curtain of Between Two Beers — talking honestly about recent viral clips, social media blowback, creative risk-taking, and being called out on-air.They share their unfiltered reactions to the Run It Straight controversy and Dan Hooker's backyard scraps, reflect on a confronting coaching moment, and even get real about sleeping nude.Hambassadors proudly brought to you by Stark Property. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.