(#50) From Barista To Co-owning Acme Cupco: New Zealand's Ceramic Powerhouse

Summary In this episode, the host discusses the inspiring principles of David Goggins, focusing on how to overcome personal limits and achieve growth. Goggins' philosophy emphasises embracing change, staying uncomfortable, building mental toughness, and taking accountability for one's actions. The conversation explores ten key rules that can help individuals push past their perceived limitations and strive for personal excellence. Takeaways Embrace change as a pathway to growth. Facing challenges head-on is essential for personal development. Comfort zones hinder progress; seek discomfort to grow. Mental toughness is built through persistence and overcoming hardships. Self-reflection is crucial for accountability and improvement. You are capable of more than you think; push beyond your limits. Excuses prevent progress; take full responsibility for your actions. Draw strength from past successes to tackle new challenges. Failure is a necessary part of the journey to success. Never give up; resilience is key to overcoming obstacles. Keywords David Goggins, personal growth, mental toughness, overcoming limits, self-improvement, accountability, embracing change, failure, resilience, discomfort

Summary In this engaging conversation, Iyia and Ilse delve into the world of property investment and personal branding. Ilse shares her journey from a creative background to becoming a successful property coach in New Zealand, emphasising the importance of financial freedom and strategic investment. The discussion highlights generational shifts in investment mindsets, various property investment strategies, and the challenges faced in the BRRRR strategy. Ilse also reflects on the inception of her coaching business, Wolfe Property Coaching, and offers valuable insights on building a personal brand and becoming a thought leader in the industry. Takeaways Ilsa's journey reflects the blend of creativity and methodical strategy in property investment. Generational shifts have changed the way people view property investment and financial freedom. Understanding different property investment strategies is crucial for success. The BRRRR strategy presents unique challenges, especially in leveraging equity for further investments. Building a personal brand requires authenticity and a clear understanding of one's value. Coaching can help aspiring investors shortcut their learning curve and avoid common pitfalls. Social media presence is essential for personal branding, but authenticity is key. Investors need to be realistic about their goals and the time required to achieve them. Networking and aligning with reputable brands can enhance credibility in the industry. Continuous learning and adaptation are vital in the ever-changing property market. Keywords property investment, personal branding, coaching, financial freedom, real estate strategies, wealth building, renovation, investment mindset, BRRRR strategy, New Zealand property

In this conversation, Iyia shares practical tips on how to save money from your paycheck to fund your dream business within six months. She emphasises the importance of setting clear financial goals, budgeting, automating savings, and exploring side hustles. Additionally, she discusses developing smart spending habits and the significance of manifesting one's dream life to stay motivated throughout the journey. Takeaways Set a clear financial goal to avoid random spending. Budgeting is essential for tracking income and expenses. Automate your savings to make it easier to save. Consider side hustles to supplement your income. Meal prepping can significantly reduce food costs. Regularly audit your spending to identify unnecessary expenses. Look for discount codes to save on purchases. Remember your long-term goals to stay motivated. Smart spending habits can lead to better financial health. Manifesting your dream life can drive your actions. Keywords saving money, financial goals, budgeting, side hustles, smart spending, manifesting dreams, business startup, personal finance, income management, financial tips

In this conversation, Megan Wiper, co-owner of Acme Cupco, shares her journey from the coffee industry to leading a ceramics brand. She discusses her experiences as a barista, her transition to managing a roastery, and the challenges of acquiring Acme during COVID-19. Megan emphasizes the importance of branding, innovation in product development, and balancing her entrepreneurial endeavors with motherhood. Her insights reflect a can-do attitude and the significance of seizing opportunities in business. Keywords Acme Cupco, coffee industry, ceramics, entrepreneurship, product development, motherhood, business challenges, branding. Takeaways Megan's journey in coffee began at a young age. She emphasises the importance of human interaction in hospitality. Megan's experience in Scotland shaped her coffee career. Branding is crucial for business success, according to Megan. Megan values the support of her business partner and team. The transition to ceramics was a natural progression for her. Product development can take longer than expected. Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship is challenging but rewarding. Megan encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to take risks and say yes. https://acmecups.nz/ https://www.makeithappen.org.nz/

In this conversation, Iyia interviews Ryan Smuts, a mortgage broker and partner at Kris Pedersen Mortgages. Ryan shares his journey into the mortgage industry, discusses current market trends, and debunks common myths about mortgages. He provides insights into strategies for paying off mortgages faster, navigating property investment as a single buyer, and the emotional challenges of home buying. The discussion also covers the future of the New Zealand property market, the differences between commercial and residential properties, and the role of non-bank lending. Ryan concludes with practical tips for aspiring property investors. Keywords mortgage, property investment, interest rates, home buying, non-bank lending, first home buyers, mortgage myths, investment strategies, New Zealand property market, commercial property Takeaways The current market is seeing a shift with interest rates potentially decreasing. Many people believe fixed-rate mortgages are the best option, but this isn't always true. Paying off a mortgage faster can be achieved through creative strategies like renting out rooms. First home buyers face challenges primarily due to high rents and deposit requirements. Emotional resilience is crucial for home buyers facing repeated disappointments. The New Zealand property market is expected to continue its upward trend in the long term. https://www.krispedersen.co.nz/about/ryan-smuts/ https://www.makeithappen.org.nz/

In this episode, Iyia and Nadene discuss the best marketing channels for businesses on a budget, focusing on email marketing, organic content, and paid advertising. They explore the effectiveness, cost, and conversion potential of each channel, emphasizing the importance of integrating these strategies for optimal results. The conversation highlights practical tips for building email lists, creating engaging organic content, and leveraging paid ads to drive traffic and sales. Keywords marketing channels, budget-friendly marketing, email marketing, organic content, paid advertising, business growth, marketing strategies, conversion potential, social media marketing, influencer marketing Takeaways Email marketing is the most cost-effective marketing channel. Building an email list is crucial for long-term success. Organic content can significantly boost brand awareness and sales. Influencer marketing can be a low-cost way to reach new audiences. Paid advertising can drive immediate traffic and leads. All marketing channels should work together for maximum impact. Understanding your audience is key to effective marketing. Testing different content types is essential for paid ads. https://www.makeithappen.org.nz/

In this engaging conversation, Kristy, a successful graphic designer and owner of Pink Pony Creative, shares her journey of starting a business, the importance of branding, and how social media has played a crucial role in her growth. She discusses her transition from a designer to a business owner, the significance of building a personal brand, and her aspirations for the future. Kristy also offers insights into public speaking and the confidence it takes to present in front of an audience, along with some fun rapid-fire questions that reveal her personality. Keywords graphic design, branding, social media, business growth, entrepreneurship, personal branding, public speaking, creative industry, marketing strategies, passive income Takeaways Kristy started her business during the COVID pandemic after feeling creatively drained. Social media has been a significant driver of growth for her business. Branding is about portraying a personality and connecting with the right audience. A strong brand can sell a mediocre product better than a great product with poor branding. Kristy emphasises the importance of creating a full visual identity beyond just a logo. Passive income opportunities have expanded her business model beyond client work. Confidence in public speaking comes with practice and acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes. https://www.pinkponycreative.com/ https://www.makeithappen.org.nz/

In this episode, Iyia and Nadene discuss the concept of manifesting success, emphasizing the importance of having a positive mindset, perseverance, and the drive to achieve more than what one has. They explore personal experiences that shaped their ambitions, the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals, and the role of failure as a learning opportunity. The conversation highlights the journey of personal growth and empowerment, encouraging listeners to pursue their dreams and embrace challenges along the way. Keywords manifestation, success, perseverance, mindset, empowerment, positivity, personal growth, overcoming challenges, self-improvement, journey Takeaways Manifestation requires both belief and hard work. Comfort can hinder ambition and growth. Perseverance is key to achieving goals. Surrounding yourself with positivity is crucial. Empowering others can inspire change. Failure is a part of the journey to success. Reflecting on what isn't working is important. The journey is as valuable as the destination. Self-made success often comes from discomfort. https://www.makeithappen.org.nz/

In this conversation, Iyia and Nadene provide an in-depth look at the behind-the-scenes workings of Make It Happen and Girls in Business. They discuss the extensive planning involved in organising large events, the importance of community and training, and the balance between personal and professional life. They share personal anecdotes about challenges faced, lessons learned from failures, and the rewarding moments that come from helping others. The conversation emphasises the significance of perseverance, community support, and the joy of seeing projects come to life. Keywords Make It Happen, Girls in Business, event planning, community building, entrepreneurship, business challenges, personal life balance, women in business, networking, training Takeaways The planning for events like Girls in Business starts a year in advance. Community engagement is crucial for business success. Every challenge faced in business is an opportunity for growth. Small, consistent efforts can lead to significant progress. The end result of a project can be incredibly rewarding. Building a supportive community can enhance the entrepreneurial journey. https://www.makeithappen.org.nz/ https://www.girlsinbusiness.org.nz/

In this episode of the Make It Happen podcast, Iyia and Nadene explore the importance of understanding one's 'why' in the entrepreneurial journey. They discuss how personal experiences shape motivations, the evolution of goals over time, and the significance of community support. The conversation also touches on overcoming challenges, staying motivated through setbacks, and the excitement of future aspirations, including expanding their reach and offerings. Keywords entrepreneurship, motivation, personal growth, business journey, community, passion projects, overcoming challenges, future goals, women in business, success stories Takeaways Understanding your 'why' is crucial for motivation. Personal experiences can shape your entrepreneurial journey. Failure is a part of the journey; learn from it. Don't overthink your ideas; just start somewhere. Marketing can differentiate your business in a crowded market. It's important to stay connected with your audience. Expanding internationally can open new opportunities. https://www.makeithappen.org.nz/