Seeds

Simon Mane is the national director for World Vision in Sudan.   In this conversation we find out about the crisis over there as well as the work that is being done by World Vision in that country.   However we start with his childhood and learning more about his childhood in Senegal, the power of Community, learning 13 languages and how he became a humanitarian worker.   You can find out more about World Vision in Sudan and ways to support at https://www.worldvision.org.nz/give-now/childhood-rescue/sudan/  The conversation with Mark Ambundo mentioned in this conversation https://theseeds.nz/podcast/mark-ambundo-with-an-african-perspective-on-western-culture-and-taking-advantage-of-opportunities/  For more interviews visit www.theseeds.nz 

Dorenda Britten shares about 'Unlocking Innovation' a company she co-founded with Chris Cole which is doing innovate new things with teams and a focus on those who have dyslexia.  The purpose of the business is: "At Unlock Innovation, we empower organisations to access the innovative potential of dyslexic individuals."  This is a followup to an earlier conversation as way back in 2018 I had spoken to Dorenda about her life story - if you want to hear that you can find it here, we had a great discussion then about design thinking and many other topics  https://theseeds.nz/podcast/dorenda-britten-on-design-and-critical-thinking/  Unlocking Innovation website: https://www.unlockinnovation.co.nz  University of Canterbury event: https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/news-and-events/news/2026/is-dyslexic-thinking-nz-s-productivity-superpower-- 

This is the full 3.5 hours of content from the Seeds Impact Conference ready for your listening on a long road trip or maybe if you are getting on a flight!  Each session is also an earlier stand alone episode of Seeds so you can listen to them that way instead as well.     Videos of the sessions are now also over here Seeds Impact Conference - Parry Field Lawyers For more visit www.theseeds.nz 

This was the Farewell session at the Seeds Impact Conference and in it I summarised the themes of the day and left people with some challenges, as well as reading out a poem and offering a parting Karakia to close the day.   More content from the event and videos is at the Parry Field hub for the conference here https://www.parryfield.com/impact-conference/ and you can also sign up there for the follow up to this which will be held in October. Parry Field Lawyers is a full service law firm supporting many purpose driven organisations and it might be we could help you too - more on us is at www.parryfield.com  For more content visit www.theseeds.nz 

This was a conversation with James about his book The Habits of High Performers - the origins of it, some key principles within it and we also dive into topics like alcohol, self belief, leading yourself and a lot more!   Book info: https://www.jjlaughlin.com/hohp  Earlier hour long conversation with James: https://theseeds.nz/podcast/james-laughlin-on-how-to-lead-on-purpose/  More content from the event and videos is at the Parry Field hub for the conference here https://www.parryfield.com/impact-conference/ and you can also sign up there for the follow up to this which will be held in October. Parry Field Lawyers is a full service law firm supporting many purpose driven organisations and it might be we could help you too - more on us is at www.parryfield.com  For more content visit www.theseeds.nz  And on seeds visit www.theseeds.nz 

This was a great session at the Seeds Impact Conference talking with Bea Gladding, Lani Evans, Izzy Fenwick, Jay Geldard and Annemarie Mora.  We heard about the many amazing initiatives they are involved in - links to each of them are: Fundsorter https://www.fundsorter.com  New Zealand Climate Foundation https://www.climatefoundation.nz  E Tū Tāngata https://www.etutangata.nz  Te Wā | The Space https://www.instagram.com/te_waa_the_space/  Parry Field Charities Hub https://www.parryfield.com/charities-information-hub/  More content from the event and videos is at the Parry Field hub for the conference here https://www.parryfield.com/impact-conference/ and you can also sign up there for the follow up to this which will be held in October. Parry Field Lawyers is a full service law firm supporting many purpose driven organisations and it might be we could help you too - more on us is at www.parryfield.com  For more content visit www.theseeds.nz 

This is the panel from the Seeds Impact Conference where we discussed startups and the factors for success.  The panel had lots of wisdom to share and insights and I am sure you will find their perspectives of help.  Feel free to share this with anyone you know in a startup to encourage them on their journey!   Sustainable Business Network https://sustainable.org.nz  Ministry of Awesome https://ministryofawesome.com  Christchurch NZ https://www.christchurchnz.com/  Daisy Hoe's interview on Seeds Podcast https://theseeds.nz/podcast/daisy-hoe-on-positive-mindset-her-disability-being-her-strength-young-enterprise-and-founding-go-able/  View the Parry Field guide for Startups here: https://www.parryfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Startups-Legal-Toolkit.pdf  More content from the event and videos is at the Parry Field hub for the conference here https://www.parryfield.com/impact-conference/ and you can also sign up there for the follow up to this which will be held in October. Parry Field Lawyers is a full service law firm supporting many purpose driven organisations and it might be we could help you too - more on us is at www.parryfield.com  For more content visit www.theseeds.nz 

This session of the Seeds Impact Conference featured several speakers who were nominated to share. We discuss crowdfunding, governance, urban planning and living, life saving water devices and donor advised funds!  Links to the initiatives are: PledgeMe PledgeMe - New Zealand's Crowdfunding Platform Circle Living: Circle Living | Building a New Story for Housing Boardworks: Leading Board Governance & Advisory Services | Boardworks NZ The Gift Trust: Welcome - The Gift Trust Article about Janine 'It can happen to anybody': Mother of girl who drowned in Hokitika calls for urgent water safety reforms | The Press More content is at Seeds Impact Conference - Parry Field Lawyers And at www.theseeds.nz   

This is my conversation with Shamubeel for the Seeds Impact Conference.   You can listen to other panel sessions from the Seeds Impact Conference on seeds or watch videos at www.parryfield.com  More on Simplicity is here Simplicity KiwiSaver Scheme - Low-cost and ethical Investment funds | Simplicity

This is the panel on Impact Investing with a Community Housing Focus featuring Annie Wilson, Ali Hamlin-Paenga, James Palmer, Paul Gilberd, Estelle Parker, and Judith Bullin.  The welcome of the conference giving context to it is over here.   View the Overview of Impact Investing here: https://www.centreforsocialimpact.org.nz/knowledge-base/overview-of-impact-investing-in-aotearoa More about Kainga Maha's work here: https://kaingamaha.co.nz/  Visit Te Matapihi's website here: https://www.tematapihi.org.nz/  More on the Community Housing Funding Agency: https://chfa.co.nz/  Visit the Community Housing Aotearoa (CHA) website here: https://communityhousing.org.nz/   Link to the Community Housing Aotearoa Conference is here: https://confer.eventsair.com/cha2026/  Read the Parry Field Community Housing guide here (from 2023, new edition to be released in June 2026): https://www.parryfield.com/home/publications/#publications-property  Visit the Responsible Investment Association Australasia website here: https://www.responsibleinvestment.org/  More on social housing from Parry Field Lawyers: Community Housing Information Hub - Parry Field Lawyers Changing Paradigms book: Changing Paradigms - Parry Field Lawyers More content at www.theseeds.nz  To listen to the Welcome, go here Welcome to the Seeds Impact Conference from Steven Moe - Seeds

This is the audio of my welcome to the Seeds Impact Conference explaining how the event will work and some key drivers as well as some themes that are important to remember.  We averaged about 400 people at the event and had more than 900 sign up to it.     I mention the "Changing Paradigms" book - a free download here  https://www.parryfield.com/changing-paradigms/ And The Apple Tree book - info here The Apple Tree - Seeds For the videos be watching out at www.parryfield.com as they will go up there. And more content from seeds podcast is at www.theseeds.nz     

Daisy Hoe is an entrepreneur who is value led and creating something that will help others.  Go Able is her idea to help wheelchair users find out whether buildings and places are accessible.   In this interview we talk about some of her life journey with a real focus on the power of who you surround yourself with, what it is like to grow up with a disability in a small town and the impact that Young Enterprise and her teachers had on her to start a new venture while in high school.   We also discuss the impact that a word of encouragement can have on a life journey - who might you impact with a kind word or insight? If you want to listen to more she will be sharing at the Seeds Impact Conference next Sunday.  You can register for that for free here Seeds Impact Conference 2026 or if you listen to this after, find the episode as will record it.   RNZ interview with Daisy Teen develops app to help navigate accessibility roadblocks | RNZ  Young Enterprise website Young Enterprise: Home The Circle: Careers with Impact book mentioned: https://theseeds.nz/articles/the-circle-careers-with-impact/   Kerri Bonner interview on disabilities, worth listening in to Kerri Bonner on changing perceptions of "Disability" - Seeds Michelle Sharp interview mentioned on show https://theseeds.nz/podcast/michelle-sharp-on-kilmarnock-and-social-enterprises/  Dorenda Britten interview mentioned on show https://theseeds.nz/podcast/dorenda-britten-on-design-and-critical-thinking/  More content is at www.theseeds.nz 

I got interviewed by Mark Longbottom for his podcast and you can hear the episode here as well.   If you like seeds you will probably like his show Purposely Podcast so why not subscribe to it too https://www.purposelypodcast.com/  Seeds impact conference registrations https://events.humanitix.com/impact-conference-2026  Seeds episode from 2021 when I first interviewed Mark for Seeds: https://theseeds.nz/podcast/mark-longbottom-on-heartkids-nz-and-purposely-podcast/  More content is at www.theseeds.nz   

This is the audio of a short article I wrote on this topic of city identity in the context of the new stadium which just opened in Christchurch.  What do you think?  Why not post the link with your take? For more content visit www.theseeds.nz   

In this short episode I talk with Rebecca Carruthers who is an immigration specialist at Parry Field Lawyers about tips for moving to New Zealand as well as how the Active Invesor Plus Visa actually works (Sometimes called the Golden Visa or AIP Visa).  It has seen massive interest so we hope this episode helps someone out there understand how it works and also gives some ideas about what it is like to move here.   Parry Field Lawyers immigration page https://www.parryfield.com/immigration/   

Jake shares his life journey on this episode - many of you will remember the speech he gave at the end of year ceremony for Christchurch Boys High School when he had just had a cancer diagnosis about 10 years ago.  "None of us get out of life alive..." We talk about that and what he learned as well as what resilience is and how we can each foster it in our lives.  We also talk about the Inspire Foundation where he is currently working and the work they do with young people.   Check out these sites with more information and the videos of the speech too as well as Jake's books. Jake's website: https://www.jakebailey.co.nz  Videos of the speech https://www.jakebailey.co.nz/info/media  Latest Book 'The Comeback Code': https://www.allenandunwin.co.nz/browse/book/Jake-Bailey-Comeback-Code-9781991142252  The Inspire Foundation https://www.inspirefoundation.co.nz  Videos on wellbeing and other topics we discuss https://www.inspirefoundation.co.nz/education-and-wellbeing  More at www.theseeds.nz 

Tessa has edited a new collection of insights in the book 'Kiwis in Climate' - for more on it click here: Kiwis in Climate book In this conversation we find out about her childhood and background as well as the variety of initiatives she has been part of already in her life.  We had known each other about a decade but I had not heard all of her story so it was nice to learn more. If you like this conversation check out more at www.theseeds.nz  Also you can listen to the Rod Carr interview here Children ask the questions of Climate Change Commission Chair Dr Rod Carr - Episode 400! - Seeds David Hall interview David Hall on Consumer Decision Making, Nudge Theory, Political Philosophy, and how all this affects Government Policy - Seeds

In this short episode I preview the Seeds Impact Conference which is a free online event with many speakers and panels - this will be the third time we have run this - the last times were in 2020 and 2023.   Sign ups here:  https://events.humanitix.com/impact-conference-2026 Tag someone in on this?  Tell someone else you know about it? More content at www.theseeds.nz 

This is a chapter by Chris Clarke from the new book 'Changing Paradigms' which is now out!   You can download the full book here  https://www.parryfield.com/changing-paradigms/  

This is the first chapter in the new book 'Changing Paradigms' which is now out!   You can download it here  https://www.parryfield.com/changing-paradigms/   

This is the introduction from a new collection of essays called 'Changing Paradigms' which you can register to receive at no cost on the landing page over here: Changing Paradigms - Parry Field Lawyers There are 25 essays in this collection and I hope you enjoy it an it challenges thinking! For more visit www.theseeds.nz 

In this episode I got the chance to speak with Judene Edgar who is from the Institute of Directors.  We talk about moving from Compliance to Confidence in governance with a particular focus on charities and societies.  Thanks to the IOD for the chance to be part of the webinar!   If you'd like the slides just email at stevenmoe@parryfield.com For more content visit www.theseeds.nz  Overview Governance of not-for-profit organisations is not just about purpose — essential though that is — but about building organisations that are resilient, trusted and fit for the future. Recent legislative changes have sharpened expectations on boards and committees while also creating a timely opportunity to strengthen governance practice, build confidence and position organisations for long-term success. New requirements under the Charities Act 2005 now require registered charities to formally review their governance procedures at least every three years, while the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 requires all existing societies to re-register by 5 April 2026 if they wish to continue operating. For many boards, these changes can feel like another compliance burden. Yet approached well, they provide a powerful catalyst for renewal. This session explores how boards can move beyond a narrow compliance mindset and use these legislative milestones to lift governance quality, strategic clarity and organisational resilience. Rather than simply asking "what do we need to change to comply?", directors are encouraged to ask deeper questions: are our structures still fit for purpose? Do our rules support good decision-making and accountability? Does our board composition reflect the skills and perspectives we need for the future? Join Steven Moe MInstD, a leading expert in charity and not-for-profit law with a strong background in governance, and Judene Edgar MNZM CMInstD, Institute of Directors' Principal Governance Advisor and an experienced not-for-profit governor, for a practical discussion linking legal obligations with effective governance leadership. Together, they will explore how boards can turn legislative change into an opportunity to govern with confidence and set their organisations up for long-term success.

In this short 2 minute episode I reflect on "The Spotlight Paradox" and what it might mean when we come to make decisions.   Who might you know that this would help?  Why not post about it, tag them in or forward the link?  It all helps to spread the word about seeds! For more content visit www.theseeds.nz    "In this episode I want to talk about a principle that could unlock a new approach for you.   It's something called the spotlight paradox.  The point here is pretty simple - we all know what a spotlight is.  it illuminates someone on stage and a lead role might step into the spotlight so all can see them.   To use that picture, we are like the main lead actor or actress in the stage show of our life, so we probably assume that the spotlight is always on us.  In other words, everyone is watching us in detail and studying our every move. So the paradox part of this is that while we all assume we are in the spotlight being observed the opposite is actually more likely to be true. No one is actually watching or observing you the way you perceive they are - you are not in the spotlight at all.  While our self centred egos may put us there it is a perception.   But the reality is that others have their own worries and fears.  They are probably thinking you are watching them in their own spotlight rather than even noticing you. In other words, we think people notice us more than they actually do. So the consequence of this: It should free you up to take risks and live without a fear of others opinions.  If you don't have to think that others are obsessed with you or noticing every choice you make, then it should free you up to do things and experiment and have ideas not work out, but then try again. The next time you find yourself hesitating to take a risk or embrace an opportunity because of what others might think, just remember they probably are not noticing you the way you might think they are.  The spotlight paradox helps us remember not to worry so much about what others think.   So what might that mean you do? Until next time, Ka kite ano."

Alanna Irving is a co-founder of Fundsorter which is a new tech based start-up making life easier for charities to find grants and funding.   In this conversation we start by talking about her childhood and growing up in California as well as her studies, time spent in Japan and what she learned there as well as how she ended up in New Zealand and found her true home here.  We both lived in Japan so we had a lot to discuss on that topic! This is a second part of an interview series as last time I spoke with Lani Evans so be sure to check out that conversation as well for another perspective.   Seeds is a project that now has 472 conversations so subsribe and check out more at www.theseeds.nz  Fundsorter website: Fundsorter | Grant Funding, Sorted Other links mentioned in conversation with Alanna •    Loomio: collaborative decision making •    Gift Collective: charity fundholding •    Open Collective: transparent finances •    The Gift Trust: donor advised fund

Lani has been involved in many fascinating projects which push boundaries of thinking about the intersection of business, philanthropy and charity.   In this conversation we talk about her childhood and early influences and trace a life filled with innovating and trying new things before diving deeper into the most recent venture which is Fundsorter.  https://www.fundsorter.com/   If you enjoy this then check out some of the other 470+ conversations with other inspiring people and more about seeds project is at www.theseeds.nz  Other projects and links mentioned in the conversation:   Steward ownership book https://steward-ownership.com/steward-ownership-101  Generous Ventures https://www.generousventures.org/  Share Collective https://www.sharecollective.nz/  Thankyou Payroll https://www.thankyoupayroll.co.nz/   

I enjoyed speaking with Dr Anu Anandaraja about her life and the work she does with Women Together Global.  I really enjoyed this conversation with Anu and hearing about her childhood and her dream at age 9 to help with health care in Africa - which came true, thanks to both hard work and serendipity!  If you enjoy this check out the 470 other episodes in the back catalogue and more info is at www.theseeds.nz  Website: https://www.womentogetherglobal.com/  New Zealand site for Women Together Global: https://www.womentogether.org.nz/  Video by Kea on Anu: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQS1xebR67I  Women Together empowers women and girls to achieve the economic independence, confidence, and solidarity to transform their futures together. Through peer to peer skills transfer, education, access to land and funding to launch cooperative businesses,  women and girls are supported to build a better world for themselves and their communities. 

Shaun Seaman from Mushroom Material recently won the Next Fest 2025 pitch competition run by the Sustainable Business Network and this is his pitch.  I attended the event and enjoyed the discussions there.   Thanks to SBN for the chance to share this with others as it is a good example of innovative and new ways of doing business and thinking!   Website: https://www.mushroommaterial.com/  His bio: Shaun is Founder & CEO at Mushroom Material. Mushroom Material is replacing expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam) with a high-performance, home-compostable alternative made from mycelium (mushrooms). The material matches expanded polystyrene in impact resistance, thermal protection, and acoustic insulation. The end product is fully circular, microplastic-free, and safe for home composting. More interviews www.theseeds.nz 

I was interviewed by Azoora Ali for her new "Care beyond profits" podcast recently - this is a portion of that interview.  For the full episode listen on her show: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1nkiSFbWQhBoGCFkXZR6lA?si=aNWoGQyQQ6yzm8N2pJT1KA  Video: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=8j76XbSDm8g  In this episode, discover how to: • Overcome the fear of the unknown with courage  • Embrace mindset shifts to unlock growth and success • Build resilience while navigating challenges and change • Find purpose-driven direction in your career and personal life • Align values, community, and even faith  with authentic leadership This conversation is perfect for anyone seeking personal growth, career inspiration, or guidance on leading with purpose. Timestamps: 0:00 Would your 95-year-old self regret this choice? 0:27 Meet Steven Moe: Lawyer turned purpose-driven leader 1:27  Family chaos, laughter & a love of books 3:36  Childhood across countries → building resilience 7:32  The leap to Japan at 21 that changed everything 10:20  Why "work–life balance" is a myth 12:07  The bell test: How to find your true purpose 15:32  Faith, values & the spiritual side of leadership 21:18  3 daily habits for focus & lasting energy 25:17  Family first: urgent work won't matter in 10 years 31:57  The #1 thing founders must do to succeed 37:12  Everyone is a leader - starting with yourself    Join us in this interview series of inspiring purpose-driven founders, CEOs, and social enterprise leaders who build care into how they work and live. We unpack their values, choices, and habits so you can apply the same ideas in your world. I believe that care turns purpose into impact in positive ways. Hosted by Azoora Ali, a Virtual (Fractional) CFO using the CARES lens: clarity, actionable insights, returns, efficiency, stability. New episodes every 2 weeks.

I learned a lot in this conversation with Alison Mau about her life and journey and what has led to the setting up of Tika.  Curiousity guided the questions and we talk about a lot of things starting with her childhood, growing up in Melbourne, experiences at primary school that shaped her and led to a resilient attitude, the special bond she feels with horses and why that is so, becoming a journalist back in the analogue days before lots of computers or dictaphons, and her presenting on TV and how she ended up in New Zealand.  Then we focus in on the setting up of Tika which is a charity that empowers people to come forward to report past sexual harm and how it works, what it means and the future potential.   And an encouragment for us all: "Happiness for me is not in money, possessions or anything like that - it is, how can I be useful..." Tika website: https://www.tika.org.nz/  Alison's book "No Words for this" is here or over here More about Anu and Women Together Global who we mention in the interview as she introduced us:  https://www.womentogetherglobal.com/  Spinoff book review: https://thespinoff.co.nz/books/01-04-2025/gripping-revelatory-generous-and-layered-no-words-for-this-by-ali-mau-reviewed  For many more interviews visit www.theseeds.nz 

This is a book review of Cues by Vanessa Van Edwards - I suggest you get a copy (link below).   For the written review visit over here and that also has links to her TedX talk and several podcast appearances talking about the principles in the book: https://theseeds.nz/articles/cues-book-review-and-principles-learned/  Link to the book: https://scorpiobooks.co.nz/product/cues-master-the-secret-language-of-charismatic-communication/  If this is of use why not share it with someone or post it with your thoughts on the topic? More here www.theseeds.nz 

In this short 5 minute episode share some reflections on the topic of saying no - what do you think?  When is it important to do this? More content is at www.theseeds.nz 

I really enjoyed my conversation with Susanne Ritzenhoff about her life and Toi Ora and the work they do – check out the links we mentioned in the conversation:   Toi Ora link: Toi Ora Live Art Trust   Gallery with art for sale: Gallery Shop - Toi Ora Live Art Trust   The Circle: Careers with Impact Book: The Circle: Careers with Impact - Seeds   Interview with Neil Ieremia: Neil Ieremia on founding Black Grace and the role Dance can play in commenting on our past and our future - Seeds   Shakespeare Festival link: Contact Us : Shakespeare Globe Centre NZ   Annie Dillard quote:   “One of the things I know about writing is this: spend it all, shoot it, play it, lose it, all, right away, every time. Do not hoard what seems good for a later place in the book or for another book; give it, give it all, give it now. The impulse to save something good for a better place later is the signal to spend it now. Something more will arise for later, something better. These things fill from behind, from beneath, like well water. Similarly, the impulse to keep to yourself what you have learned is not only shameful, it is destructive. Anything you do not give freely and abundantly becomes lost to you. You open your safe and find ashes.”  

Here is a short summary of sessions held at the reent two day Institute of Directors Leadership Conference.   The full article can be accessed here with a lot more summaries of other sessions as well!  https://theseeds.nz/iod-leadership-conference-2025-summary-of-sessions-and-key-themes/  Why not join the next one in Wellington in September 2026?  Info is at the IOD site here https://www.iod.org.nz/2026-leadership-conference  For more content visit www.theseeds.nz 

Julie Woods went blind as an adult and in this episode we hear about her journey and what that was like and how she embraces life fully today.  I was really inspired by this conversation and hearing how she has overcome challenges to really live life.  I guarantee you will come away inspired by this conversation.   Her website is here https://www.thatblindwoman.co.nz  One million names in braille initiative is here https://www.thatblindwoman.co.nz/1-million-names-in-braille/  CCS Disability Action page: https://www.ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz/  Blind Low Vision site https://fundraise.blindlowvision.org.nz/ Tom Cooney interview mentioned https://theseeds.nz/podcast/professor-tom-cooney-on-inclusion-to-entrepreneurship-for-marginalised-groups-such-as-former-prisoners-refugees-and-those-with-disabilities/  More info www.theseeds.nz 

Audio of panel discussion just held at the Zero Waste Summit on 8 September 2025 discussing Tools for Transformation: System Change for a Zero Waste Future. More on the Zero Waste Network is here and worth signing up for their newsletter https://zerowaste.co.nz  Panelists:  Sue Coutts, Moderator from Zero Waste Network Steven Moe, Parry Field Lawyers Limited Dr Saeid Baroutian, University of Auckland James Griffin, Sustainable Business Network Description of the session: Panel Discussion: Tools for Transformation - System Change for a Zero Waste Future Achieving zero waste requires more than good intentions—it demands deep systems change. In this panel, leaders from business, legal, academic, and innovation spheres come together to explore how their sectors can enable, accelerate, or obstruct a zero waste future. How can business models shift from extraction to regeneration? What legal tools and policies are needed to drive accountability and equity? Where is research shining new light—or holding old assumptions in place? And how can innovation challenge the status quo without reinforcing it? This conversation will surface tensions, opportunities, and cross-sector insights to help us build a more circular, just, and resilient Aotearoa. Thanks Craig Fisher for taking the photo! More content at www.theseeds.nz   

Mark Laurence and I had a great discussion on AI and the future and A.icehouse, a new initiative for SMEs that he is working on with Icehouse, to learn more about the future of AI and what it might mean for companies and directors and business owners as well as charities and other organisations.  Have a look at these links to find out more.   A.icehouse website: https://www.theicehouse.co.nz/a.icehouse   Ten Past Tomorrow site: https://www.tenpasttomorrow.com  Icehouse: https://www.theicehouse.co.nz  For more episodes visit www.theseeds.nz  More on A.icehouse: "You don't need to master every new app, platform or update. You need practical and pragmatic AI knowledge that powers your business to navigate the evolution AI is asking of you. AI is moving faster than leaders can follow. It can feel overwhelming, noisy, and hard to know what really matters. A.icehouse is designed to give Kiwi SME owners and senior teams clarity, in practical and tangible ways. No hype. No waffle. We focus on AI literacy and skills first, then layer in the tools so you can build the confidence to make better informed decisions. Back in 2000, Icehouse helped SMEs make sense of the internet and the knowledge era. Today, with applied AI expertise from Ten Past Tomorrow, we're helping businesses make sense of AI and the intelligence era. In A.icehouse you'll find: Plain-English explanations and demonstrations to build AI literacy around what AI is, what it isn't, and how it is reshaping business models and industries, right now. Practical AI skill training, so you yourselves become powerful users of frontier AI tools to drive radical and immediate efficiency and productivity in your own roles. Pragmatic strategies and maps so you can drive the same AI-powered efficiency and productivity as mentioned above, throughout your entire organisation Time-respectful sessions designed for busy leaders. Honest conversations about unknowns and trade-offs, not hype or silver bullets. A mix of formats, from quick webinars, online courses, to live in-person in-depth symposiums; so you can choose what fits your time and needs. A trusted partnership: Icehouse's 20+ years of SME support with Ten Past Tomorrow's applied AI excellence."

This is the audio of a talk I gave the other day to about 100 lawyers on principles and habits for life - it comes from content in the recent book: The Circle: Careers with Impact which is a download here https://theseeds.nz/articles/the-circle-careers-with-impact/  If it is of help, why not forward it on to someone else?   More content is at www.theseeds.nz   

In this session I talked with Dr Brett Mann about conflict and how it influences board dynamics and he had a lot of wisdom to share on this fascinating topic. This is part of our ongoing commitment from Parry Field Lawyers to hosting important conversations that help you all. Forward on or tag someone in it may interest?  Dr Brett Mann joined me in a conversation we need to have about conflict and board dynamics.  Brett shared his perspective as an educator and communication skills trainer and draw on his experience with governance to explain connection points as we cover:  - Looking at conflict - what do we mean by that?   - What do Chairs and all those on Boards need to consider when it comes to conflict?    - What role does our personal history around past conflict play in this?    - Is conflict ‘bad' or can it help unlock new ways of thinking?      - What are some ‘Rules of engagement' to manage conflict?   - How do you suggest we address three common, often unspoken, ‘minor conflicts' to improve board dynamics? Earlier seeds conversation with Brett on the impact of stress on our bodies: Dr Brett Mann on the impact of stress on our bodies, psychotherapy and 'somatisation' - Seeds Recent book on Careers with Impact: https://theseeds.nz/articles/the-circle-careers-with-impact/  Biography of Dr Brett Mann Brett is a medical educator and recently finished forty years as a general practitioner. He had a central role in the design of the New Zealand general practitioner communication skills training programme. This included introducing training on ‘dealing with conflict.' which, for the last eighteen years, has been an important part of the programme. He has given many seminars to doctors and provided many hours of one to one and group training in this area. Hat tip to Grant Adams for the suggestion.

The audio version of my recent book on careers, work, identity, purpose and impact. You can download the book here https://theseeds.nz/articles/the-circle-careers-with-impact/ Contents The Circle  Introduction Part I: Our source of identity  Part II: Misconception about work  Part III: Purpose and your values  Part IV: Why all this impacts you  Part V: Developing seed habits  Part VI: Creativity and vulnerability  Part VII: What are you building?  Part VIII: Closing the loop of the circle  More content at www.theseeds.nz 

Tom Cooney is a visiting Erskine Fellow to the University of Canterbury and I was lucky enough to sit with him in person and hear about his life story and the work he does today helping marginalised groups (those with disabilities, refugees, former prisoners, asylum seekers etc) access entrepreneurship education.   But we start with his childhood, influences, parents, what he studied and how he came to be involved in this area - the format of seeds podcast is to really understand a life story not just a superficial "what is your job" question.  If you want to hear more there are hundreds of conversations now at www.theseeds.nz Tom provided the following links to things we discussed: Tom Cooney's website www.tomcooney.ie   Self-employment for persons with disabilities https://www.tudublin.ie/explore/news/aib-and-tu-dublin-self-employment-for-persons-with-disabilities-programme-2025.html Centre for Entrepreneurial Behaviour Inclusion and Innovation (CEBII) https://researchprofiles.tudublin.ie/en/organisations/centre-for-entrepreneurial-behaviour-inclusion-and-innovation-ceb/persons/  More info on the podcast is at www.theseeds.nz 

This is the audio of the paper released about the topic of Nature as Shareholder.  You can access the paper at this link to download it: https://www.parryfield.com/impact-investing-information-hub/ Nature as Shareholder

Andrew is the CEO of the NZGBC and in this episode we hear about the work they do as well as find out more about his life story.  I learned a lot about the way that homes are measured through the Homestar rating and the important work that the New Zealand Green Building Council - and its 700 members - are doing in this area.   NZGBC Website is here  Andrew also shared this Real-world success stories: Explore how other developers are leveraging Homestar to deliver high-performance homes: Homestar Case Studies    Design support: The Homestar Design Guide offers practical strategies for achieving certification, including moisture control, thermal envelope design, and energy efficiency. The financial upsides of energy efficiency healthy homes A recent Infometrics report shows that homes built to 6 Homestar can save homeowners over $62,000 - $99,000 in electricity and mortgage interest. These savings are driven by lower energy bills and access to discounted mortgage that ANZ's Healthy Home Loan provides. Developers or builders can save hundreds of thousands of dollars. The following banks provide significantly lower interest development finance for Homestar homes; ANZ, ASB, BNZ, Kiwibank and Westpac  The Circle: Careers With Impact book is here https://theseeds.nz/articles/the-circle-careers-with-impact/  For more episodes visit www.theseeds.nz   

Karim Sabet has led an interesting life having been born in Africa, raised in Japan and Egypt but also having lived in Malaysia and now is settled with his young family in Selwyn, New Zealand.    We talk about that international background and what it was like to grow up between cultures – being from somewhere but never having lived there as a child.  We also discuss his career and the work he has done as an entrepreneur as well as his current roles and plans for the future.  I really enjoyed getting to know Karim and hearing more of his background and life story and having interesting conversations and curiosity led discussions – the essence of what seeds podcast is about.    If you enjoyed this then you might like to check out some of the other episodes in the back catalogue as there are now more than 450 of those at www.theseeds.nz   

I was interviewed by by Seán Barnes for his Impact Professional Podcast and this is the result! FInd out more about his work over here and you can also subscribe to his show https://www.impactprofessional.nz My latest book is out now - The Circle: Careers with Impact, and it is over here https://theseeds.nz/articles/the-circle-careers-with-impact/ More content at www.theseeds.nz 

In this session I got insights from Shamubeel Eaqub the Chief Economist at Simplicity on a huge variety of topics - the economy, mountains, measuring value, wars, the working poor, superannuation, public forums for discussion, social cohesion, butter prices - we covered a lot!  Who might you tag in or share this with?  I also describe my new book The Circle: Careers with Impact which is a free download available now!   The Economy Made Simple, podcast with Shamubeel Eaqub here Podcast - Money Made Simple | Simplicity Charities Information Hub Charities in New Zealand | Parry Field Lawyers Careers with Impact page and download of new book The Circle: Careers with Impact - Seeds Charities and Tax paper PARRY-FIELD-Charities-and-Tax.pdf About Money Sweetspot mentioned in this About Us | Debt Consolidation Lenders | Money Sweetspot IOD article on Orders of Consciousness Governance and orders of consciousness: a different leadership lens | IoD NZ For more content visit www.theseeds.nz 

Latesha Hearth has led a fascinating life of curiousity which makes for a conversation touching on many topics - yoghurt, strangers on planes, home schooling, community, chocolate, Edmund Hillary Fellowship and much more.  Links to things discussed: Weave Cacao https://weavecacao.com/  The Values Trust https://valuestrust.co.nz/  The Raglan Food Co https://raglanfoodco.com/  Edmund Hillary Fellowship https://www.ehf.org/  Oonagh Browne interview https://theseeds.nz/podcast/oonagh-browne-on-the-power-of-chocolate-and-cacao/  More at https://theseeds.nz/ 

In this session Luke Peez (my colleague at Parry Field Lawyers) and I break down key considerations for organisations when it comes to use of AI - what do you need to think about and how do you stay safe?  The paper we talk about is a free download here: https://www.parryfield.com/artificial-intelligence-ai-hub/  For more content visit www.parryfield.com and for more podcast content visit www.theseeds.nz 

This is a short message out to ask for your help – yes, I need you, my seeds community!  To participate my email is steven@theseeds.nz  I've reflected a lot on my own life and work and crafted something that is short and to the point but I really think will help you.  It also reflects many concepts from guests I've learned on Seeds.   Will be releasing “The Circle: Careers with Impact” a 50 page book this month and would like to:   - offer you a free advance copy of it - ask for your thoughts on it so I can compile a bunch of reviews and short comments and put on the launch page with your name and credit to you as well   If you are interested in this please leave a comment or email steven@theseeds.nz and let me know and will send you a copy!    LinkedIn post here with info and where you can leave a comment if you prefer. Here is what Jasmin Muhlmann said about the book:   “This book helped me reflect on my journey and inspired me to think deeply about how I can align my career with my purpose and values. It also reminded me that I am the leader and driver of my own life and this perspective reignited my excitement for the future.”    Thanks in advance! www.theseeds.nz 

In this session held in New Plymouth recently I share about my journey and things I have learnt in my career as well as legal structures for Impact and answering audience questions.   Thanks to DOSO, Venture Taranaki and New Plyouth Council for the invitation to some and share with many startups.   More content for startups is at www.parryfield.com And more on seeds is at www.theseeds.nz 

In this live session recorded on 30 May 2025 Jenny Gill, Craig Fisher and I discuss the budget and related issues - and even end with a story of The Apple Tree!   More resources and earlier recordings and papers https://www.parryfield.com/charities-information-hub/ And audio versions are at www.theseeds.nz The Apple Tree story read at the end https://theseeds.nz/books/the-apple-tree/  

I saw a LinkedIn post from Arron Judson on the topic of different people having different skill sets and the framing of 'Explorers' and 'Optimisers'.  This is the short conversation we had where he explained more on this.   To find out more the site for Eidotic which is here (but check back later as being built still): Coming Soon EIDOTIC   This is the LinkedIn post here that sparked this conversation.