Ever wondered about the origins of Twitter and the role of social media in movements?

I got the chance to sit down with Rabble (Evan Henshaw-Plath) who was there at the start as the first employee of the company that created Twitter.  We talk about that but begin with the early days in Northern California growing up as a child of hippies and counterculture thought that and being immersed in that as a child.  

We also talk about computers back when that was a new tech, the internet and what social movements can use technology for, including current project Nos and also Causes.  We also talk about the Edmund Hillary Fellowship which we are both part of.  

This was a fascinating conversation and if you enjoy it why not check out the 400+ others in earlier episodes of seeds which is trying to create a database of life stories that we can all learn from.  For more on the project visit www.theseeds.nz  

Nos site: https://www.nos.social 

Causes site: https://www.causes.com 

 

How do our choices when shopping impact the planet?  Really enjoyed this conversation with Stine Smith about her entrepreneurial journey as a co-founder of Good Change which has a focus on cleaning products that are better for us and the earth.  

But we start hearing about her childhood in Denmark, what she learned as a 15 year old on exchange in America, her international sales and management consulting career in Europe, America and the Middle East and how she came to Aotearoa New Zealand and started the business.  

A highlight is our focussing in on doing a business with a cofounder rather than on your own and what it takes to make that work well - identifying each of your skills and trusting each other to play to those.  

If you enjoy this then why not check out the 400+ other conversations on seeds www.theseeds.nz and share the show with one other person, that is how it will grow as it is just a word of mouth approach.  

Website: https://www.goodchangestore.com/ 

This is the audio of an article that I wrote that was just published in The Press on street art and what it says about identity and new stories being told in Õtautahi Christchurch.  The orgins directly relate to Seeds Podcast as I had a conversation on Street Art with Dr Reuben Woods a while ago (here) and always thought the topic would make a great article.  So I wrote it up and this was published on 8 June 2024 as the lead article in the Mainlander section of The Press.  This is the audio of me reading out the article. 

For the print version it is here:  https://www.thepress.co.nz/culture/350297693/rise-street-art-otautahi-christchurch 

Watch This Space website: https://watchthisspace.org.nz/

Toi Õtautahi  https://toiotautahi.org.nz/ 

Interview with Reuben which inspired the article https://theseeds.nz/podcast/dr-reuben-woods-on-the-street-art-of-christchurch-and-watch-this-space/ 

The book by Peter Simpson mentioned "Bloomsbury South: The Arts in Christchurch 1933-1953" https://aucklanduniversitypress.co.nz/bloomsbury-south/

 

Barry Coates has had a fascinating life journey and in this conversation he shares about his background and what has led him to found Mindful Money, which focusses on helping Kiwis invest ethically.  We discuss the work they do and the seminars, programs and awards run.  We also talk about his early years, work in the United States and England and his time as an MP.  If you enjoy this then subscribe and check out some of the hundreds of other episodes at www.theseeds.nz 

Mindful Money Site: https://mindfulmoney.nz/ 

Wendy Hoddinott shares her life journey in this episode and what has led her to focus on colloborative design of our shared spaces, as well as working on heritage related projects.  We also talk about the Gather Foundation which is a charity she founded which has a unique focus using its Place Cadets program: "Gather Foundation empowers Ōtautahi’s tamariki and rangatahi to co-design outdoor environments in their schools, neighbourhoods and communities", and "Wendy works with Gather Foundation to develop child-centric design programmes, drawing on children and young people’s knowledge and lived experiences, so that the final outcome is a reflection of their aspirations, rather than adult assumptions of the places they want to live and play."

If you enjoy this conversation then why not tell one other person about the show, subscribe, leave a rating and review and check out some of the 300 other episodes at www.theseeds.nz 

Gather Foundation: https://www.gatherfoundation.org.nz/ 

Gather Landscape: https://gatherla.nz/ 

Email: wendy@gatherla.nz 

A documentary on Place Cadets by John Sellwood: https://vimeo.com/391774977 

This is the audio of our conversation with four founders of tech companies which was part of Tech Week 2022.  Thanks to Hannah, Elliot, Chris, Jack and Aislinn for being part of this!

Very often we just hear the glamorous part of the journey of Founders of tech start-ups. In this zoom session we heard some of the other parts too - no sugar coating, no glitz, just the reality of being an entrepreneur. Sharing were four founders who are each at different stages of the journey – one just raised money recently (Elliot Taylor of ThroughLine), two who have raised last year and are in growth phase (Jack and Chris of Komodo) and one who has recently exited (Hannah of Indigo & Iris). As all these founders incorporated elements of purpose and impact into their business models we will also be hearing about the “Tech for Good” aspects to what they each do. To do this we hear from each guest on their journey and challenges in an interview format hosted by Aislinn Molloy (Senior Solicitor at Parry Field Lawyers with an expertise in capital fundraising) and Steven Moe (Partner at Parry Field Lawyers and Seeds podcast host).

Capital raisiing guide mentioned: Capital Raising | Parry Field Lawyers 

 

In the latest Impact Call for April 2022 we heard from:

00:00 - Introduction to call

05:09 - Kirsten Patterson on IOD

15:52 - Maria English on Impact Lab

27:22 - Ros Rice on Community Networks Aotearoa

44:38 - Final thoughts

46:13 - End

Kirsten Patterson (KP) is the Chief Executive of the Institute of Directors of New Zealand (IOD) – was great to hear more about this organisation that has 10,000 members and some of the resources available on their site and the initiatives and training and conferences they run. https://www.iod.org.nz/#

Maria English the CEO of Impact Lab – interesting to learn background to the work they do in helping organisations measure impact and how they go about doing that https://impactlab.co.nz/

Ros Rice the Executive Officer of Community Networks Aotearoa sharing about their recent initiative to provide governance training “Tick for Governance” in the form of a series of 10 modules at a reasonable price – including the first one being free – and loved hearing about the whimsy in the videos https://www.communitynetworksaotearoa... End

Video https://youtu.be/ilqPLLPp8Vg

More content at www.theseeds.nz 

Nicola Patrick has led an interesting life and in this episode we hear all about her journey.  We have a bunch of diversions along the way to talk about social enterprise, growing up in Takaka, working for the Ākina Foundation, rights of rivers and a lot more too.  We also focus in on an upcoming Expo that Thrive Whanganui are coordinating - you can find out more about it at their Facebook page below.  

https://www.facebook.com/ThriveWhanganui

Recent story about Te Awa Tupua:

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/whanganui-chronicle/news/gerrard-albert-why-whanganui-river-tribes-have-moved-beyond-co-governance-to-a-new-model-for-better-democracy/US3PVHBYW2FTKUGMO7ABP5ZW4E/

For more content visit www.theseeds.nz 

 

The 300th episode!  Thanks everyone for helping get to this point - in this one it's a bit different as I am in conversation with Andy Dickson who interviewed me for his podcast, 'Down to Earth Conversations' which he called "Law, Seeds and Maximum Impact".  We talk about my background and history and I share some of my journey - hope you enjoy this!!  

Check out his podcast: https://www.downtoearthconversations.com

Photo by former guest Stephanie Defregger https://www.stephaniedefregger.com

Here is description of episode by Andy:

In this episode I had the privilege of sitting down with lawyer, writer and podcaster Steven Moe.  Steven is someone whose life reflects his desire to see change in the world.  He loves to support other change makers, as well as role modelling fresh ways of approaching situations.

We talk about his podcast, The Seeds, and he shares how and why it came about. We also explore how he functions as a lawyer who wants to do good in the world. We talk about the ways businesses can structure themselves to have a positive impact on the world, and about being stewards who pass on to the next generations something worth having.  We discuss Steven's writing and why he serves on boards and advisory groups and how he does all of that while having a family.  There's a bit of everything in this kōrero!

Check out The Seeds at theseeds.nz for podcast links as well as articles and other bits and pieces. 

Follow The Seeds on Facebook or Instagram

And download a copy of Steven's latest book: Laying Foundations for Reimagining Business for free at theseeds.nz

___

Connect with me at downtoearthconversations.com or at:

Facebook: facebook.com/downtoearth.conversations 

Instagram: @downtoearth.conversations

Email: downtoearth.conversations@gmail.com

 

Music by Strahan:

Spotify: Strahan

Facebook: facebook.com/StrahanMusic  or  facebook.com/commonerscommunion

Instagram: @strahanmusic  or  @commoners_communion

   

 

In this conversation with Michelle Berriman we hear about her purpose driven work, her fascinating background and what has led her to New Zealand.  We also talk about a report that the Fundraising Institute of New Zealand have just released prepared over two years on giving, wills and bequests (downloadable here) called 'New Zealand's Willpower'.  

Her bio: Michelle has been causing disruption and transformational change in the NPF sector for over 25 years, Michelle is motivated by creating change and making a difference to those facing adversity and wants everyone to be given the chance to be the very best version of themselves.

Michelle is the currently the Executive Director of FINZ. Michelle has work in a variety of roles within the charity sector, prior to a move into fundraising and development she was a youth/community development worker supporting children looked after by the state, running community-based youth projects, and working in juvenile lock-down.

Michelle’s natural ability to forge long lasting and meaningful relationships has delivered positive results for the many organisations she has worked for. Michelle has a passion for events, conceptualising ideas, and bringing a new flavour to existing programmes within organisations.

FINZ: https://www.finz.org.nz 

The report: https://cdn-asset-mel-1.airsquare.com/finz/library/documents/advocacy_giw/giw-printable-finz-booklet_final_print.pdf?202204132232 

For more interviews see www.theseeds.nz 

Stephanie Defregger is a photographer who captures stories and the essense of a person through her photos.  In this interview we discuss her background and growing up in Munich, her move to New Zealand and her work as a photographer.  We particularly discuss storytelling and the role of photos as well as the significance of certain 'thin places' where each of us feel connection and grounding.  I really enjoyed this conversation and am sure you will as well - if you do there are 298 others in the back catalogue at www.theseeds.nz 

Website: https://www.stephaniedefregger.com

Email: stephanie@stephaniedefregger.com 

Her pechakucha talk: https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/re-connect

Impact unconference talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2Cx6hBPDNA

 

Each month I host an "Impact Call" by zoom - this is the audio of the latest one featuring some amazing speakers about what they are currenty up to! If you'd like to join the more than 650 that get notifications about upcoming calls and news as well let me know by email to steven@theseeds.nz ...

Our speakers are:

- Sue McCabe the CE of Philanthropy New Zealand | Tōpūtanga Tuku Aroha o Aotearoa will share about their new initiative Match | Te Puna Taurite which is about to launch and provide “a more equitable, accessible and collaborative funding system” https://lnkd.in/eJaHNZHF
- Michelle Berriman the Executive Director of FINZ New Zealand who are releasing a research report soon. 
- Kaye Maree Dunn will share about He Kōrero – from these podcasts focus on Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the way different practitioners apply its intent and principles in their respective mahi. This mahi includes kaupapa Māori research, education, climate change, homelessness and community development. Link He Kōrero - Te Tiriti Podcasts - Community Research

Index:

00:51: Intro
04:09: Sue McCabe from Philanthropy New Zealand
13:19: Kaye Maree Dunn from 
29:13: Michelle Berriman from Fundraising Institute of New Zealand 

For more episodes visit www.theseeds.nz 

Am curious - what advice would you give a new grad starting out in your role?

Am really pleased to have Sophie Tremewan join our team this month to share in our focus on purpose driven organisations, getting legal structures right, draft contracts where they are legally safeguarded and help them raise capital from investors. Sophie is also becoming a property law expert through her work with Judith Bullin – useful skills!

Am so glad to work with an amazing team which is growing, and are the only reason I am able to do the things I am involved in. Thank you Aislinn Molloy, Michael Belay Sophie Tremewan and Emma Hayes!

There are 10 pieces of advice I had for her as she starts out (really reminders for myself … ):

1. Add value. Always ask ‘how can I make things better’, by doing more than is expected or requested. If you are asked to write a memo, draft the cover email that you know is going to be needed as well. If you mention a resource to someone over a coffee or on a call, follow up by emailing them a link later. If a client has a problem, think about whether they are asking the right questions or if there are other issues they haven’t though about yet. Be proactive.
2. Be curious. Law school prepares you to think logically but not to deal with the reality of legal practise. There are going to be questions you get asked that you don’t have the answers to. Some of them will seem very dull (“What is the origin of section 22 of the Trusts Act 2019?”). But every question is a chance to learn something new, so approach them like greeting an old friend with enthusiasm and curiosity and soon enough you will discover that answering those dozens and hundreds of questions will build up over time into a foundation on which you can stand firm.
3. Be efficient. Learn to use time well and in particular look for those bits of time that are wasted. Have a commute? Perfect time to call prospective clients who want to talk. Have an interest in a subject area? Why not write a white paper about it and become known as an expert in that and reach out to others you admire to ask for their views.
4. Be creative. Following on from that last one always be looking to infuse your work with creativity too. Add a quote from a poet to that article you are writing. Spend time thinking about the cover image on the guide “Capital Raising key legal issues”. We are lawyers, but we can be creative in how we express ourselves too. I like how Seth Godin puts it this way: “The distance from can to will keeps getting larger. You can connect, lead, see, speak, create, encourage, challenge and contribute. Will you?” I did a short episode on creativity here.
5. Seek impact. We are lucky to meet amazing founders and purpose driven people and get to help catalyse impact for them to achieve things and that is a great privilege. Actively consider the areas you want to become known for and become an expert in that. Becoming an impact driven lawyer is possible (a short talk on that here).
6. Assumptions are dangerous. Be careful when relying on an assumption about an answer, what a client wants, what someone implied or how long something will take to prepare. You'll get experience over time but until then always be wary about assumptions.
7. Own mistakes. Yes they will happen. Acknowledge them and apologise and learn from them, but then move on and don’t let them drag you down over and over by playing on an internal repeat loop. I once emailed a "reply all" by mistake that went to 8,000 people! When I interviewed Michael Mayell for seeds podcast here he described mistakes as the compost from which success will grow. I really like that.
8. Relationships are key. Think of it like a spiderweb where we are all interconnected in some way – everyone in that web has value and one day you may be able to help them (or they could help you).
9. You are a leader. Think of yourself as a leader right from the outset because you are – at the very least lead one person, yourself. So start there and that mindset will help you grow and contribute…
10. Have fun. I started my career in 2001 so have been doing this a while. It’s important to not let the pressure of work outweigh the having fun part . . .

What advice would you have for a new grad starting in your role? I'd like to know!

steven@theseeds.nz

This is the audio of a talk I gave yesterday for Community Governance Aotearoa on the topic of Chairing meetings and with a focus on AGMs.  I do a lot of support for boards, companies, trusts and others in goverance in my work as a partner at Parry Field Lawyers so it was a pleasure to talk on this topic.  In it share my thoughts on this area and outline 20 principles that are relevant to consider when you come to your role as Chair.

More resources that Community Goverannce Aotearoa provide are here (thanks for the chance to share Rose, April, Elyse and team) https://communitygovernance.org.nz/

If this helps you then why not share with one other person?

The 20 principles will be uploaded here and the other resource mentioned in talk on chairing meetings: https://www.parryfield.com/advisory/governance/governance-essentials/ 

Raesha Ismail has grown up with multiple identities and we discuss her life story on this episode.  Born in New Zealand but with strong connections back to India and being a Muslim has meant many rich cultural influences on her journey.  What is it like to grow up in Christchurch?  And what are the type of questions we should be asking others we meet who might not fit a neat box?  We also talk about her work today as a counsellor, the loss of her brother in the March 15th attacks, and how that led her to join the Sakinah Community Trust which is a woman led charity of widows and others who lost siblings or parents and who are doing good work on uniting communities.  Check out their upcoming events to mark the anniversary.  This is one of almost 300 episodes so check the others out at www.theseeds.nz   

Sakinah Community Trust: https://sakinahtrust.org/

Counselling work: https://canmen.org.nz/counselling/

https://www.petersgate.org.nz/counsellors

The Big Sick trailer we discussed: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=cLM5DdUhkoM

For more interviews visit www.theseeds.nz

 

James Stewart founded Gemelli Consulting to work on impact focussed projects.  In this interview he shares his personal journey, from being challenged about how he would use his privilege early in his life and the change that resulted ad led to seeking out purpose.  We also talk about his unusual business model – profits get given away.  Finally we talk about a white paper he has just released which is focussed on the housing crisis and one possible solution to that.  I enjoyed this conversation and if you do as well check out some others at www.theseeds.nz   

White paper: https://www.gemelliconsulting.com/white-papers/

Gemelli Consulting: https://www.gemelliconsulting.com/

In this converation with the Christchurch City Missioner Matthew Mark, we find out about his background and motivations as well as the work they do with the homeless and others in need.  That is a lot more people than you might think.   Matthew also shares about his own background and why this work is so important to him, and how we can support what they do.  

Christchurch City Mission: Christchurch City Mission 

For more interviews visit www.theseeds.nz 

This is a very short 5 minute excerpt of the conversation with Nobuko Okamoto about Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery using gold - we reflected on what it might mean for each of us and our lives and parts that might be broken.  

"The thing that strikes me about this technique of Kintsugi is that if we think about our lives, so often there are broken parts in our lives - and it is easy to push them aside and say "I don't want to deal with that brokenness" or that pain or whatever it is.  And the model that you are using is to say, "we can repair things and we can regognise that there is brokenness but that there can be beauty in the brokenness" - and by using Gold it is actually emphasising the places where the pottery was broken - and sometimes in our lives, well we don't want to talk about the broken things but in the same way we can be repaired, we can be fixed as well, and it can be something that even is celebrated, that it actually leads to some new life for this object ... or this person. It is a beatiful thing."

Facebook for more by Nobuko: https://www.facebook.com/nobu.kintsugi/ 

Photos by Nobuko Okamoto of work she has done - visit her instagram for many more amazing ones. https://www.instagram.com/nobu.kintsugi/?hl=en 

For more interviews visit www.theseeds.nz 

Nobuko is an artist who uses the Japanese method of Kintsugi to repair broken pottery.  In this interview we talk about the process of doing that but also what it represents about us as humans as well.  We also go into her background and life in Japan, being a professional snowboarder and what brought her to New Zealand as a teenager and then later in life as well.  If you have any broken items of pottery that is special then she is the best person to reach out to!  If you enjoy this conversation then have a listen to some of the almost 300 others in the back catalogue.  

Nobuko Okamoto kintsugi.825@gmail.com

Instagram : nobu.kintsugi 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nobu.kintsugi/ 

Stuff article: https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/homed/decor/300444143/the-slow-art-of-giving-broken-objects-a-second-life

www.theseeds.nz 

Sid is part of the founding team of Neighbourhoods, which is focussed on the role of reputation in an online world.  Before we talk about that initiative we dive into his past growing up in India, joining the banking system, abandoning that for several years including time at the Ghandi Ashram, thinking about the true meaning of wealth, finding that distributed ledger technology could be used to measure reputation and what Neighbourhoods is.  I think it has real potential and am a supporter of the Project and have invested a small amount too.  This is the longest of the interviews recorded because we talked about so many different topics - if you enjoy this style then make sure to check out one of the others in the back catalogue at www.theseeds.nz because there are almost 300 of them.  

Website: Neighbourhoods | A design philosophy for Holochain hApps.

White Paper: White Paper v.1 - White Paper (neighbourhoods.network)

Twitter: Neighbourhoods (@Neighbour_hoods) / Twitter 

The article on Captain Planet... Remembering Captain Planet, 30 years on | The Spinoff

Edmund Hillary Fellowship: Edmund Hillary Fellowship (ehf.org)

Index of topics

00:00 - Intro
02:40 - Childhood influences and cultural context growing up in India
10:04 - the impact of language on culture and communities
13:37 - the impact of neoliberalism and globalisation
21:57 - Discussing Caste system and impact
26:05 - first job in trading and experience
33:45 - Fissures in thinking about role of capitalism
38:24 - time at Ghandi Ashram and new paradigms of thinking from time there
55:55 - meaning of wealth and deeper thinking on this
1:04:02 - the implications of distributed ledger technology and ability to keep track of reputation
1:10:56 - Holo Chain and this enabling agency and new ways of social coordination
1:13:36 - some examples and tools Neighbourhoods provides
1:17:17 - what you need to create a Neighbourhoods Community
1:20:50 - plugging in and now and in the future
1:27:25 - impact of reputation on credit and accessing money
1:31:21 - comparison of Neighbourhoods to current social media platforms
1:34:03 - real world examples and scaleability of use
1:38:25 - Vision for future and how to define success
1:42:44 - Links to find out more
1:43:15 - reflections on the Edmund Hillary Fellowship

Nicola has recently been appointed as CEO of the Ākina Foundation so in this interview we find out all about the work they are doing in the area of impact.  They have done a lot and continue provide many resources for those interested in the intersection of purpose, profit and business.  We also hear about her life story and journeys across the world and in other roles.  If you enjoy this then check out some of the hundreds of other interviews in the back catalogue.  

Website: https://www.akina.org.nz

Earlier interview with former CEO Louise Aitken in November 2018 - interesting to hear how terminology has moved on since that recording too: https://seeds.libsyn.com/louise-aitken-on-akina-social-enterprise-and-being-a-twin 

 

 

Joy co-founded One Mother to Another which is an amazing initiative providing handwritten notes and gifts to Mothers and carers in Hospitals going through a difficult time with a sick child.  Their aim is to bridge the gap between 2 strangers and offer understanding and acknowledgement of their difficulty but mostly put a smile on their face and let them know they are cared about.  Before we talk about that we also learn about her life story and what it has been like being a journalist on radio and television.  I really enjoyed learning about her journey and am sure you will too - if you do check out their website below and don't forget there are nearly 300 other interviews as well for seeds.

Website: https://www.onemothertoanother.org.nz/

Ways to help: https://www.onemothertoanother.org.nz/get-involved/ 

www.theseeds.nz 

Welcome to the audio version of the White Paper that you can download here: “The Decentralised Revolution: Understanding the potential of Blockchain, DeFi, Crypto, DAOs, NFTs and the Metaverse to drive innovation, creativity and new paradigms“.

You can download the paper here: https://theseeds.nz/the-decentralised-revolution-white-paper/ 

Know anyone who might like to see a copy?

Sparked by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand issues papers about the future of money it uses that as a launching point to take a higher level perspective of what the future might look like.

Check out other episodes in the back catalogue as well and sign up for the newsletter at www.theseeds.nz 

This is a short story I wrote to encourage us when we lose sight of the value of what we are doing.  

The printed version is at The Empty Square here: https://www.theemptysquare.org/stories/the-apple-tree

Thank you Julie Holck and Simon Glinvad Nielsen for publishing this and other writing.  Check out their site for a lot of great content.

If you like this then would you consider sharing it with someone else?  

Enjoyed this conversation with Neil Ieremia about Black Grace dance company and his life as a choreographer – we start with his childhood and learned about his upbringing, the role of his parents, the impact of a childhood illness and sense of identity from a young age.  We also talk about the origins of Black Grace and the first dance he choreographed at age 13.  We then discuss the role of art and dance and how it can have an impact on society itself, commenting on the past and present.  Finally we discuss the future plans for Black Grace.

Website: https://blackgrace.co.nz/

For more conversations visit www.theseeds.nz

Oonagh Browne is an expert in Chocolate and Cacao.  In this conversation we hear about her childhood in Ireland, her moving to different parts of the world, her feeling on arriving in New Zealand, first experiences with making chocolate and why she started The Cacao Ambassador.  We find out a lot about chocolate and cacao as well!  Find out more about her work here https://www.thecacaoambassador.com/

For more interviews visit www.theseeds.nz 

Oonagh is an expert on Chocolate and Cacao.  In this conversation we hear about this topic as a preview of the full episode which will come out next.  

Find out more about her work here https://www.thecacaoambassador.com/

Kirsty Allott is an expert in human resources, personality and job satisfaction.  In this interview we talk about all of that and more but start with her background and love of dance.  We then talk about psychology and her own career transition which was sparked by a manager asking if she was happy.  Since then she has worked in human resources and helping people with their careers and navigating change at Vargo + Lewis.  The resources they are making available called the Crafted Career Programmes that we discuss are on their website here.

Vargo + Lewis: Vargo+Lewis - Empowering Performance Together 

For more interviews visit www.theseeds.nz 

Kirsty Allott is an expert in human resources, personality and job satisfaction.  In this extract of the full interview we talk about the questions we each should be asking about our Jobs.  For resources mentioned they are at Vargo + Lewis: Vargo+Lewis - Empowering Performance Together 

For more interviews visit www.theseeds.nz 

Audio book version of the newly released "Laying Foundations for Reimagining Business: Essays".  For more information on print copies, downloadable PDF and comments about the book visit: Laying Foundations for Reimagining Business: Essays – seeds (theseeds.nz)

Would you be willing to share the link with others?  A message could just say this and if you tag me I will like and comment!

Check out this free resource – a book of essays about the future of business: https://theseeds.nz/laying-foundations-for-reimagining-business-essays/

Index of the audio for each essay:

2:30: Essay 1: The bottom line is not enough, companies should be required to have a purpose

7:47: Essay 2: Impact Investing presents opportunity to back a better future beyond just financial gain

12:09: Essay 3: Proposed changes to the Companies Act mark the beginning of positive change

17:15: Essay 4: Purpose-driven structures for Impact Entrepreneurs: Considering Kaitiakitanga and Steward Ownership

28:27: Essay 5: What social enterprises in Aotearoa can learn from Māoritanga

32:57: Essay 6: A case for bringing creatives to the governance table

37:54: Essay 7: The hard questions we need to be asking

48:09: Essay 8: Structuring for Impact

54:08: Excerpt from “Reimagining Business”

www.theseeds.nz 

This is a short bonus episode with the audio of an article I co-wrote with Louisa Taylor - it arose after she gave a talk that I attended about lawyers hindering innovation so it was fun to collaborate on this with her and prove that collaboration can result in good things!

The stuff article: https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/prosper/advice/300335515/how-agile-contracts-can-promote-project-innovation 

Alina is an impact storyteller who has just released a book about the power of story.  She first appeared on seeds for episode 143.  In this shorter follow episode 279 we catch up with her to find out about the book she has released called A Future Untold: The power of story to transform the world and ourselves. Check it out at the links below.

Website: www.alinasiegfried.com

Earlier interview for ep 143: https://seeds.libsyn.com/alina-siegfred-on-poetry-and-impact-storytelling

Here are some options for places to buy "A Future Untold":

• Get the paperback on Amazon​
• Get the paperback on Barnes & Noble​
• Get the e-book on Kindle
• Get the e-book on Kobo​
• Get the e-book on Apple Books​
• Get the e-book on Google Play​
• ​Other e-book platforms​

John joins the latest impact sector call to share about The Cause Report which he is a co-author of for JB Were.  In the report there is an analysis of the For Purpose sector with data on charities analysed to look for trends and insights.  The sector John is the Head of Philanthropy for JB Were and tells us about what this is and key conclusions that result.  The impact sector calls are held every two months and is a chance to bring together people to listen in on new innovations and connect with each other as well.  If you'd like to join the more than 500+ who receive notifications about the calls then drop me a line at steven@theseeds.nz 

The Cause Report: https://www.jbwere.co.nz/latest-insights/philanthropy/jbwere-nz-cause-report-2021/ 

John is the Head of Philanthropy for JBWere New Zealand and joined JBWere in January 2020 from a boutique strategy advisory business he co-founded in 2009.

E: john.morrow@jbwere.co.nz 

Melanie has a focus on preserving indigenous knowledge and highlighting the importance of mātauranga Māori and using that understanding to meet environmental challenges we face today.  Her expertise in biodiversity and driving environmental outcomes are underpinned by an indigenous worldview.  In this very wide ranging conversation we discuss all of that as well as colonialism and decolonisation, systemic change and also ... seed banking.  But we begin with her story and background which included time spent in Oman and then moving back to Aotearoa New Zealand and founding Te Tira Whakamātaki.  If you enjoy this why not subscribe and check out some of the hundreds of other interviews in the back catalogue.

Website: Home - TTW - Te Tira Whakamātaki

Her bio on the site:

Melanie Mark-Shadbolt is from Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairararapa, Ngāti Porou, Te Arawa, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Tuwharetoa, Te Atiawa, as well as Clans Macintosh and Gunn. She is an indigenous environmental sociologist and is the current the Kaihautū Chief Māori Advisor to the Ministry for the Environment, the Director Māori of NZ’s Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, and CEO of Te Tira Whakamātaki Foundation.

Melanie is a specialist in applying traditional knowledge to biosecurity and sustainable natural resource management. Her work has covered research in stakeholder values, attitudes and behaviours, social acceptability of management practices, risk communication and the wider human dimensions of environmental health.  Melanie serves on a number of boards and national advisory bodies including; the Myrtle Rust Governance Group, Kauri Dieback Strategic Science Advisory Group,  Rauika Mangai and Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga Climate Change programme.  She was previously the Māori Research & Development Manager Kaiārahi at the Bio-Protection Research Centre at Lincoln University, Ararau Coordinator for Ngāi Tahu tribal entity Te Tapuae o Rehua, and the Chair of Te Waipounamu District Māori Council.

 

The truth about Hepatitis - what do you know?  In this interview Hazel takes us on a journey to understand her life and experience as someone who has been impacted by Hepatitis C but has found the cure which literally saved her life.  There is a lot of misinformation on this topic out there so I enjoyed hearing first hand from someone about this topic.  We also dive back into her early years to learn about her influences and what has shaped her.  We also talk about the project to test the entire population of Niue and the role of the Edmund Hillary Fellowship in fundraising for that.  

Website for more info: 

Fundraising request on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOs11S5cOgY

Hep C Action website and butterfly resources https://hepc-action.nz/

GHNZ website https://globalhealthnz.org/ 

Butterfly international hit; https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/112029274/kiwi-butterflies-get-support-as-global-symbol-for-elimination-of-hepatitis-c

People can contact me, email hazel@ghnz.org

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/hazel-heal-

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008681522039

Arthur book review/excerpt: https://thespinoff.co.nz/books/16-08-2021/arthur-taylor-what-its-like-to-be-strip-searched-in-prison/

Arthur and me: https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/taking-taylor-eye-opening-adventure?

Article on Hazel: Thousands of Hepatitis C sufferers unaware a cure is within reach | Stuff.co.nz

 

In this panel discussion arranged by Ministry of Awesome, got the chance to share about governance for startups along with Flip Grater, Jeff Wallace and Zach Warder-Gabaldon.  We kept it practical and relevant for founders on what you need to know when it comes to advisory boards, directors, legal duties, paying people, finding the right fit, selecting investors, how to keep on track and quite a lot more!  If you like this, check out the other content at www.theseeds.nz 

Resource on how to chair a meeting well: https://www.parryfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/How-to-Chair-a-Meeting-Well.pdf 

"Ministry of Awesome presents a dynamic panel of expert advisors offering quick-fire advice to guide you through the early stages of your business journey. Our experts will demystify industry jargon about governance and structure and clarify how today’s decisions can impact the future success of your business.”

Bios on panellists

Zach: Zach is responsible for developing and managing the startup innovation programmes at Ministry of Awesome. After spending two and half decades in the Valley immersed in and surrounded by entrepreneurship and innovation, he is incredibly well equipped to helping Aotearoa’s startup sector realise its potential as a unique and powerful incubation nation.

Jeff: Jeff is a long-time Bay Area resident who works with global startup ecosystems, including governments, corporations & startup accelerators/entrepreneurs, to help catalyze startup environments & create a bridge to Silicon Valley. He is an Adjunct Instructor at UC Berkeley and is co-founder of Silicon Valley in Your Pocket, a global virtual startup accelerator, serving 1000s of companies across 40+ countries. He is co-founder & former President of Batchery, an incubator for seed stage startups. He is an active angel investor with equity positions in 250+ companies and an active advisor & investor at Berkeley SkyDeck. He is an Executive Board Member for the Rutgers Business School Road to Silicon Valley Program (RSVP). Previously, he worked at Cognizant & Brillio as founder & Global Head for Mobility & UX practices. He is a frequent keynote speaker at global tech & startup events. He holds a BA in Economics/Finance from Rutgers College & an MBA from UC Berkeley.

Flip: Flip Grater is an author, musician and activist, founder and CEO, chef and entrepreneur. After 15 years in the music industry as a music label owner and singer-songwriter, touring the world and releasing five albums and two books she moved home to Otautahi and started plant based food production company and restaurant Grater Goods. She is currently the CEO of Grater Goods and a Press columnist.

Steven: Steven Moe is a Partner at Parry Field Lawyers with a focus on start-ups and small business and helping them succeed through practical support on topics such as structures, shareholders, raising capital and IP. He has edited free guides for startups including this one on raising capital and this one on common start-up issues. He has worked as a lawyer for 20 years including 11 years overseas based in Tokyo, London and Sydney, and since 2016 has been based back in Aotearoa. Steven hosts seeds podcast which has a focus on “for purpose” organisations and people doing inspiring things which has 388 episodes and another on governance for the IOD called Board Matters.

This was fun.  Elle Archer, Sina Cotter Tait, Tim Jones and Michael Phillpott joined me for an online seeds podcast unlike any before.  Each of them shared one leadership myth they have seen and we had some discussions about what they shared.  A key theme came through of lifelong learning.  If you enjoy this then why not share with others?  And check out earlier episodes with them below. 

www.theseeds.nz 

Tim Jones earlier episode: https://seeds.libsyn.com/tim-jones-on-b-corps and his website: https://www.growgood.co 

Elle Archer earlier episode: https://seeds.libsyn.com/elle-archer-on-being-curious-lifelong-learning-and-the-ako-tautahi-learning-city-christchurch-festival 

Michael Philpott earlier episode: https://seeds.libsyn.com/michael-philpott-on-speaking-in-public-why-do-we-fear-it-and-what-can-help and his website: https://www.michaelphilpott.co.nz/ 

Sina Cotter Tait website: https://collectivesuccess.co.nz 

Dr Duncan Webb is the Labour MP for Christchurch Central and introduced a private Members' Bill which has been selected and is likely going to change Director Duties in a significant way. In this interview we spend a long time discussing the origins of the change, what it will mean, the process to have it passed and whether there could be changes before it is passed.  We also jump back in time to learn about his history, moving to New Zealand at a young age, his career as an academic, Partner in a law firm and then the decision to stand for Parliament and winning the Christchurch Central seat in 2017.  If you enjoy this episode then check out some of the other interviews of hundreds of others in the back catalogue and there is lots of info at www.theseeds.nz 

Description of the changes we discuss and link to Stuff opinion piece: https://theseeds.nz/nz-duties-of-directors-set-for-major-change-what-will-this-mean/

Information on Duncan: https://www.labour.org.nz/duncanwebb 

 

 

 

This is the audio version of an opinion piece I wrote for Stuff yesterday.  It relates to proposed changes to the Companies Act regarding Director Duties.  Could the changes be strengthened so NZ becomes a world leader?

Please consider re-sharing this to spread the word about the changes proposed.  This is a post that will bring up an image in social media: NZ Duties of Directors set for major change: What will this mean? – seeds (theseeds.nz) 

Or you can share or read the article here: https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/opinion-analysis/300417573/proposed-changes-to-the-companies-act-mark-the-beginning-of-positive-change 

 

Matthew has been involved in a wide variety of tech start-ups and in this episode we start with learning about his early years and how those experiences influenced him.  We also talk about the Edmund Hillary Fellowship as well as his new venture Alimentary and the work they are doing - it was pretty fun for the podcast to be the first time Matthew has spoken about this new initiative publicly.  If you enjoy this episode check out some of the others at www.theseeds.nz 

Connect with Matthew
www.blackswan.nz
https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewjackson/
https://twitter.com/mattnzl
https://www.instagram.com/mattnzl/

Learn more about Alimentary
www.alimentary.systems
https://www.linkedin.com/company/alimentary-systems
https://www.ehf.org/live-sessions

 

 

Savva Kerdemelidis has seen a need and is trying to solve it, in this case it relates to his NZ charity Crowd Funded Cures, whose mission is to use pay for success contracts to make drug development more affordable by repurposing off-patent medicines. In this conversation we talk about this but also about his childhood, his Grandfather's experiences in Siberia, growing up in New Zealand, when we got to know each other at the University of Canterbury Students' Association in 2000 and becoming a lawyer who works around the World. For more information about Crowd Funded Cures see below.

Or please get in touch by email at info@crowdfundedcures.org

Website  https://crowdfundedcures.org 

Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/CrowdFundedCure

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crowdfundedcures/

Discord: https://discord.gg/n3PXBtvd

Telegram: https://t.me/joinchat/pJoHURDJTF81NjA0

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/67096455/

Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/CrowdFundedCures/

Medium: https://crowdfundedcures.medium.com/

 

I had a conversation with Tim Jones for his "Purpose Fuelled Performance" podcast recently and this is our wide ranging discussion on such a variety of topics I am calling it 'The Random Episode' - though the consistent theme is purpose.  Tim was on episode 2 of Seeds so I really enjoyed jumping over onto his podcast and I have a feeling this could become a fun regular feature every once in a while!  

Tim's website: https://www.growgood.co 

Look up "Purpose Fuelled Performance" Podcast too.

 

 

Sophie-Claire has led a fascinating life and we hear about growing up in Mauritius, her thoughts on language and decolonisation, her work as a cultural anthropologist and cultural strategist.  In this wide ranging interview we talked about a huge variety of topics - if you enjoy it then check out some of the hundreds of other interviews in the back catalogue at www.theseeds.nz 

 

 

In this interview with Jo we talk a lot about fundraising for purpose led organisations but we also learn about her life story and what led her to start Strategic Grants, the terminology we use in the "not for profit" space, positions of power between Charities and the Grant Makers, key tips for writing fundraising applications and more.  If you enjoy this then check out some of the hundreds of other stories in the back catalogue.  

Website in NZ: Home - Strategic Grants

Website in Australia: Home - Strategic Grants 

Dr Catherin Brown interview mentioned Seeds: Catherine Brown with a Funder's perspective on social enterprises (libsyn.com) 

Charity Law Association of Australia and New Zealand is mentioned: Events (claanz.org.au) 

www.theseeds.nz 

 

Peter shares in this conversation about solar energy and we also learn about his life story.  Solagri Energy is the business he co-founded and is a distributed energy business passionate about helping New Zealand agriculture transition to a green energy future.  Thanks to Jacob Varghese for the suggestion of talking.  If you enjoy this then check out the hundreds of others in the back catalogue at www.theseeds.nz 

Website: Solagri

PledgeMe: Solagri Energy | PledgeMe 

 

This is the audio version of a Stuff opinion piece that I wrote this week called "The bottom line is not enough, companies should be required to have a purpose".    

Linked In post which has a lot of comments to check out...what do you think?  Let me know there: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/steven-moe-0b3b008a_the-bottom-line-is-not-enough-companies-activity-6836527083515183104-hbda 

The Stuff article: https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/126154370/the-bottom-line-is-not-enough-companies-should-be-required-to-have-a-purpose

Thank you Susan Edmunds for the chance to wrote this opinion piece.  

More episodes www.theseeds.nz

So what really is Impact Investing?  A short explanation ...

(This is the transript of the episode and all the links mentioned in it)

Having now interviewed almost 400 guests on Seeds Podcast a recurring theme which has emerged is how they are using impact investing to effect positive change in our society.  A question I get all the time though - both from companies, charities, directors and Trustees is - what exactly are you meaning when you keep talking about the rise of Impact Investing?  

So let’s break it down and give you some further listening if it does interest you.  

First the traditional approach.  Someone has a spare $10 million dollars - now this is a hypothetical scenario rather than being my situation.  Anyway, they have a choice about where they put that money.  One option is a traditional approach which means they put it into a long term deposit which makes interest.  They get some financial return, even if it is relatively low, and the offshore owned banks recycle that money to make themselves a nice profit.  

Impact investing steps in at this point and offers another approach.  What if that person has a particular cause that they care about - unfortunately the list is long - social housing, food deprivation for children, education on mental health and suicide prevention, climate change and green tech - there are many needs.  Let’s choose social housing because I know it really well.

So what if our friend took a portion of that $10 million and invested it into a startup company that wanted to provide social housing - this could be as equity and result in owning shares, or it could be as debt and they would have a loan they make.  The crux of the difference with traditional investing is that they would be able to make a financial return because it is not a donation, it is an investment.  But at the same time they would be able to have impact which is far greater and more satisfying than the interest they make from that long term deposit.

I am not saying they invest the full $10 million they have, but they do invest a portion of it - doing so may involve some risk but often ethically motivated companies that provide real solutions to our most wicked problems perform better, not worse, than traditional investments - and a tsunami of consumer support for such initiatives is on its way as people consider the supply chain and where their products come from.  

Even easier than a direct investment might be joining a fund which has those ethical lenses and thinks about where they put their money - and this is a choice that each of us can easily make with our Kiwisaver - I’ll put the links to Pathfinder, Simplicity and Generate as examples of that.

A real life example of this approach is Community Finance where I am the Chair of the Board.  We identified social housing as a massive need and we support Community Housing Providers by providing them with finance at a lower rate than mainstream banks, which we get from philanthropic investors and Kiwisaver funds like those I just mentioned.  Have we raised $50k or $100k for this?  No, actually in just a few years we have pulled together more than $160m for this. Before you all knock on the door this is for wholesale investors, rather than retail investors.  

So that is what impact investing is - simple, right?  We may be on the cusp of going even further though. 

Recently I released a legal opinion on how I think Trustees of large Trusts or Foundations that sit on large untapped pools of wealth now have a duty to consider Impact Investing and where their funds are invested - Shamubeel Eaqub interviewed me about that and why I think the law itself has changed for Seeds and will put a link to that in the show notes.  The point is that those funds that have billions of dollars in aggregate often were set up by a founder who wanted to tackle one of those problems in society, but the Trustees only think about how they can use income from their traditional investments - instead they should have a blue skies moment to think about how they invest the capital itself because where they invest it might be a means to advance their purposes.

If all this is intriguing but you are after real lives and understanding the people who are leading the way then I can recommend the following seeds episodes, among many dozens of others:

Shamubeel Eaqub in conversation with Steven Moe on the rise of Impact Investing: https://theseeds.nz/podcast/shamubeel-eaqub-in-conversation-with-steven-moe-on-impact-investing/ 

Impact Investing Legal Opinion as audio book: https://theseeds.nz/podcast/impact-investing-legal-opinion-audio-version-read-by-steven-moe/ 

Brianne West and Esha Chabra on Regenerative Business https://theseeds.nz/podcast/brianne-west-esha-chhabra-on-regenerative-business-seeds-conference-session/ 

John Berry on Ethical Investing https://seeds.libsyn.com/john-berry-on-ethical-investing 

A post-growth future and what it means for larger business: Seeds Conference session with Jennifer Wilkins, Dr Katherine Trebeck & Dr Donnie Macluran
https://theseeds.nz/podcast/a-post-growth-future-and-what-it-means-for-larger-business-seeds-conference-session-with-jennifer-wilkins-dr-katherine-trebeck-dr-donnie-macluran/ 

Regenerative and Blended Finance: Seeds Conference Session with Rosalie Nelson from EHF and Andrew Hewitt, Satya Kumar, Brad Leibov and Laina Greene https://theseeds.nz/podcast/regenerative-and-blended-finance-seeds-conference-session-with-rosalie-nelson-from-ehf-and-andrew-hewitt-satya-kumar-brad-leibov-and-laina-greene/ 

Safe Wongsunopparat on measuring Social Impact and proactively making decisions that change your life https://theseeds.nz/podcast/safe-wongsunopparat-on-measuring-social-impact-and-proactively-making-decisions-that-change-your-life/ 

Nathaniel Calhoun on preserving Biodiversity and effecting system change: https://theseeds.nz/podcast/nathaniel-calhoun-on-preserving-biodiversity-and-effecting-systems-change/ 

Bill Murphy on the Purpose Capital Impact Fund https://theseeds.nz/podcast/bill-murphy-on-the-purpose-capital-impact-fund/ 

Tā Tipene O’Regan on the people who shaped his life https://theseeds.nz/podcast/ta-tipene-oregan-on-the-people-who-shaped-his-life/ 

Joanne McEachen on Joy and Innovating in Education, and bringing an Indigenous perspective to global conversations https://theseeds.nz/podcast/joanne-mceachen-on-joy-and-innovating-in-education-and-bringing-an-indigenous-perspective-to-global-conversations/ 

Israel Cooper https://seeds.libsyn.com/israel-cooper-on-home-community-people-and-purpose 

Impact investing Network https://www.impactinvestingnetwork.nz 

 

This is a wide ranging interview with Sam Stubbs - the best type of interview!   Before we talk about Simplicity we get into the background to Sam and his life and learn about his childhood, the impact of stuttering as a young boy, what it motivated him to do (speak in front of crowds), his work as as an investment banker, the role of the Christchurch earthquakes in a shift of thinking and his transition over to help co-found Simplicity.  We also touch on many many other topics along the way like social enterprise, the future of business, technology shifts and more.  If you enjoy this and the style of interview here then check out the hundreds of others in the back catalogue to get some inspiration!  www.theseeds.nz 

About Simplicity: Our Investment Funds - Simplicity

About Community Finance that we talk about: Home - communityfinance.co.nz

About Dyslexia as a superpower: Spotify – Dyslexia as Superpower with Geoff Bone - Seeds | Podcast on Spotify

Robett has fit in a lot into his life - from medal winning professional snowboarder to successful multi-exit media and tech entrepreneur, investor and global Kiwi we dive back into his past to learn what has influenced him and motivates him today to keep going.  From an early Fiji childhood to being a teenager in Aranui and the challenge from a guidance counsellor that he would end up stacking boxes we talk about how he has always been in the minority and the fuel this has provided for him to achieve.  We also talk about his autobiography Power Moves and zero in on what it means to do good and give back in your life.  If you enjoy this interview check out some of the other 260+ others in seeds, talks with inspiring people at www.theseeds.nz 

Robett's site: https://robett.com 

Garry Moore served three terms as Christchurch Mayor and in this episode we hear about his childhood then really have a very eclectic conversation - as expected!  We jump all through his life to learn about what has shaped him, the influence of people who called him to be more than he was, the impact of generosity shown by others and his thoughts on a wide range of issues such as Water, Community Housing and the disconnect arising from our use of Technology.  We also talk about the Tuesday Club and the variety of topics it covers each week - sign up to the newsletter to stay up to date with that (link below).  I really enjoyed this conversation and if you do as well remember this is one of more than 260 interviews where we dive deep to learn about different people - lots more at www.theseeds.nz 

Tuesday Club information: https://tuesdayclub.nz