Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod

S01 E45 - Cath Cooksley-Little at HOTEC Oct 23 2026 Oct 26, 2026 00:48:07 In this episode the Two Palagi talk with New Zealand's Trade Commissioner for the Pacific who is leading a NZ presence at the HOTEC trade show in Nadi. Together they explore the Trade Show, highlighting key insights about the evolving tourism landscape in Fiji. It emphasizes the shift towards quality in products and the importance of local partnerships in enhancing the tourism experience.Takeaways

S01 E44 - Giles Jephcott and The NZ Pacific Business Council - Oct 17 2026 Oct 18, 2026 00:53:44 In this episode, Dave and Glen engage with Giles Jephcott, chair of the New Zealand Pacific Business Council and MD at Astrolabe Shipping, discussing his journey and experiences in the Pacific business landscape. They explore the significance of relationship building, the success of recent business missions, and insights from the Samoan business community, while also reflecting on future improveme

S01 E43 - Renewable Energy Transition with Dean Yarrall - Oct 10 2026 Oct 12, 2026 00:48:12 The Two Palagi attended the Oceania Renewable Energy Summit so Dave and Glen discuss the summit itself and have a Talanoa with Cook Island's energy regulator Dean Yarrall. Dean also leads the Office of the Pacific Energy Regulators Alliance (OPERA) so has a unique region-wide view of energy transition and the challenges and opportunities in the Pacific. Dave also ran the Pacific stream of the summ

S01 E42 - Fantasha Lockington CEO at FHTA - Oct 3 2026 Oct 5, 2026 00:49:13 The conversation focuses on the significance of the tourism industry in Fiji, discussing its economic impact, challenges, and recovery post-COVID. Fantasha Lockington, CEO of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association, shares insights on the industry's dynamics, including local ownership, climate challenges, and recent tax changes. The conversation delves into the complexities of tourism development i

S01 E41 - Zane Yoshida and FijiKava - Sept 26 2026 Sep 27, 2026 00:59:09 The conversation delves into the world of Kava, exploring its preparation, varieties, and the journey of Zane Yoshida in the Kava industry. Zane leads the ASX listed Calmer Company that markets the FijiKava brand. We also discuss the invention of instant Kava and its significance in the Western market. The conversation delves into the cultural and regional consumption of Kava, exploring its histor

S01 E40 - Lukbo Food Group - Sept 19 2026 Sep 21, 2026 00:47:09 The conversation with owners, Qiuchee and Qiujing Wong, explores the journey of Lukbo, a business specializing in the importation and wholesaling of Pacific Island and Asian food. It delves into the challenges of sourcing, processing, and distributing products from the Pacific region to New Zealand, as well as the family history and legacy of the business. The conversation covers topics such as th

S01 E39 - Glynis Miller and Pacific Trade & Invest - Sept 12 2026 Sep 14, 2026 00:48:59 The conversation introduces Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) and Glynis Miller, the Trade Commissioner for PTI based in Auckland. Glynis shares her journey to PTI, highlighting the organization's role as a regional trade and investment promotion agency. The discussion explores PTI's impact on trade and investment in the Pacific, emphasizing its influence on changing the narrative for Pacific exporters a

S01 E38 - Tony Fautua and ADRA - Sept 5 2026 Sep 7, 2026 00:52:18 The conversation covers Tony Fautua's diplomatic career, transition to the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), and the role of the Adventist Church in the Pacific. It also explores the evolution and influence of the Adventist Church, ADRA's mission and global network, and its collaboration with the Adventist Church. It also explores ADRTA's connection to the Sanitarium business, the im

S01 E37 - The Pacific Islands Forum 2026 - Aug 29 2026 Aug 29, 2026 00:39:36 Glen and Dave discuss the Pacific business landscape, community involvement, and the significance of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in driving economic activity and decision-making in the region. They explore the structure and decision-making process of the PIF, emphasizing the importance of consensus and actionable outcomes. The Troika and its relevance for New Zealand's upcoming hosting of the

S01 E36 - Stephen Plowman and Rarotonga Brewery - Aug 22 2026 Aug 24, 2026 00:48:43 The conversation with Stephen Plowman, the captain of beer, covers his journey into the beer brewing industry, the establishment of Hallertau Brewery, the evolution of the brewing industry in New Zealand, and his partnership in the Rarotonga brewery. Stephen's focus on quality, sustainability, and the local beer experience is evident throughout the discussion. The conversation with Stephen Plowman

S01 E35 - Chandan Ohri, DUCO Consulting and Outsource Fiji - Aug 15 2026 Aug 17, 2026 00:48:41 The conversation delves into the rise of the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector in the Pacific, particularly in Fiji, and its impact on the local economy. It also explores the journey of DUCO Consultancy, the growth of the BPO market in Fiji, talent retention and development, and Fiji's value proposition in the BPO sector. The conversation covers the topics of 24/7 support for global client

S01 E34 - Matt Freeman and the Oceania Renewable Power Conference - Aug 8 2026 Aug 10, 2026 00:40:06 SummaryIn this episode, Dave and Glen Talanoa with Matt Freeman of Freeman Media to discuss the upcoming Oceania Renewable Power Summit, focusing on renewable energy developments in the Pacific region, challenges, opportunities, and the role of international investment.Keywordsrenewable energy, Pacific region, Oceania Renewable Power Summit, energy transition, solar, wind, batteries, energy invest

S01 E33 - Atin Patel and the Vinod Patel Group - Aug 1 2026 Aug 3, 2026 00:49:17 summary In this episode, Dave Dewar interviews Atin Patel, a director of Vinod Patel Group, to explore the company's diverse operations, regional expansion, and leadership philosophy. Discover how a family business maintains professionalism, innovation, and community engagement across Fiji and beyond. keywords Vinod Patel Group, Fiji business, regional expansion, family business, leadership, sus

S01 E32 - The French Pacific with Agnes Baekelandt - July 25 2026 Jul 25, 2026 00:51:10 SummaryJoin our Two Palagi as they explore the economic significance of the French Pacific, featuring insights from Agnes Baekelandt, Vice President of the French New Zealand Chamber of Commerce and CEO at Barkers of Geraldine. Discover the region's potential, cultural highlights, and key opportunities for business and collaboration; including discussion of the upcoming trade mission organized by

S01 E31 - The Constantinou Group in PNG - July 18 2026 Jul 20, 2026 00:47:51 SummaryIn this episode, we explore the Pacific region's business landscape through an insightful conversation with George Constantinou of the Constantinou Group. Discover how a family business spans multiple markets and generations, and gain valuable regional insights. We explore their diverse portfolio, management strategies, regional opportunities, and community initiatives.KeywordsPacific regio

S01 E30 - John Stokes and Eat The Kiwi - July 11 2026 Jul 12, 2026 00:45:29 Navigating Pacific Food Supply Chains with John StokesDiscover how John Stokes leverages his extensive experience in food distribution from New Zealand to the Pacific, creating sustainable and profitable regional supply chains. This episode delves into the intricacies of exporting Pacific-grown produce, overcoming logistical hurdles, and building local markets.Main Topics:The evolution of food dis

S01 E29 - Matthew Finlay and Solomon Airlines - July 4 2026 Jul 5, 2026 00:45:30 SummaryIn this episode, Glen and Dave discuss regional business insights, cultural highlights, and recent developments in the Pacific, including airline innovations and culinary achievements. The main feature is a Talanoa with Matthew Finlay the CEO of Solomon Airlines and how he sees his first 130 days in the role along with his views for the future.KeywordsPacific business, airline industry, Mic

S01 E28 - Makerita Urale and Pacific Creative Enterprises - June 27 2026 Jun 27, 2026 00:37:19 KeywordsCreative Arts, New Zealand, Pacific, Economic Impact, Export, Sustainability, Makerita Urale, Creative New Zealand, Arts Strategy, Intellectual PropertyTakeawaysCreative arts contribute over 4.3% to New Zealand's GDP.Pacific creative enterprises play a vital role in promoting New Zealand internationally.Makerita Urale emphasizes the importance of connecting Pacific arts with global audienc

S01 E27 - The Distillery Co. Fiji - June 20 2026 Jun 22, 2026 00:38:08 SummaryIn this episode, Glen and Dave explore regional business trends, economic relationships, and inspiring rescue stories from the Pacific. The key feature is an engaging Talanoa with Paul Clark, Managing Director of The Distillery Co. Fiji. With deep personal and family connections to Fiji Paul and his brother have created world class products under brands like Blue Turtle Gin and VulaViti Vod

S01 E26 - Vasiti Soko and Business Continuity Planning - June 13 2026 Jun 15, 2026 00:42:57 SummaryIn this episode, Glen and Dave explore disaster management and business continuity planning through a talanoa with Vasiti Soko who was the first female director of Fiji’s National Disaster Management Office. Vasiti led the organisation through COVID 19 as well as through a number of natural emergencies. The talanoa comes off the back of Dave working with Vasiti on facilitation of a webinar

S01 E25 - Talanoa with Craig Smith of Counterpoint Group - June 6 2026 Jun 7, 2026 00:41:38 Content typeInterviewSummaryDave is safely back in Rarotonga but while he was in Fiji he had a Talanoa with Craig Smith from Fiji's Counterpoint Group. Craig shares insights on digital innovation in Fiji's tourism sector, regional tech development, and the future of AI and digital tools in the Pacific. Discover how local businesses are transforming and the opportunities for growth and collaborati

S01 E24 - Pacific Infrastructure Conference, Nadi - May 30 2026 Jun 1, 2026 00:41:24 SummaryWith Dave freshly back from attending the Pacific Business Opportunities Seminar (PBOS) in Nadi, Glen and Dave discuss the key themes from PBOS, focusing on localization, community development, and regional collaboration. While he was at the conference Dave had a couple of Talanoa and highlights how infrastructure procurement is changing with local empowerment. This episode features Talanoa

S01 E23- New brand launch and Talanoa with Greenhouse Studio - May 23 2026 May 23, 2026 00:40:59 SummaryIn this engaging interview, the team from Greenhouse Studio in Suva, Fiji, share their journey, creative process, and insights into the Pacific's vibrant creative economy. Discover how they craft meaningful work that inspires change and celebrates Pacific culture. They have also designed a new look for Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod which Dave and Glen are pleased to launch!KeywordsGreenhouse

S01 E22 - ADB and Pacific Infrastructure Procurement - Talanoa with Jenny Chu - May 16 2026 May 16, 2026 00:33:12 SummaryThis episode features Glen and Dave discussing infrastructure development in the Pacific, focusing on recent initiatives, challenges, and upcoming conferences with Jenny Chu from the Asian Development Bank. They explore the evolving procurement culture in the region, procurement policies, and opportunities. Discover how ADB supports local businesses, enhances procurement processes, and fost

S01 E21 - Talanoa with Auckland Council Pacific Economy Lead Sarah Leo - May 9 2026 May 10, 2026 00:45:52 SummaryAlong with their normal discussion about business activity in the Pacific this week Dave talks about the time he spent on Atiu Island. The main feature in this episode is that, while Dave was at Atiu, Glen sat down with Sarah Leo who leads Auckland Council’s engagement with Auckland’s Pacific economy. Sarah shares her journey, the importance of Pacific businesses in Auckland's economy, and

S01 E20 - The Business of Pasifika Art - May 2 2026 May 3, 2026 00:35:21 SummaryJoin Glen and Dave as they explore the vibrant Pacific art scene, recent cultural events, and regional developments in infrastructure, energy, and connectivity. This episode highlights the power of storytelling through film, art, and community engagement, emphasizing resilience and innovation in the Pacific region.KeywordsPacific art, regional development, Pacific connectivity, Pacific resi

S01 E19 - Jennifer Boggiss, Heilala Vanilla - April 25 2026 Apr 26, 2026 00:43:03 SummaryIn this episode Two Palagi have an nsightful interview, Jennifer Boggiss shares the inspiring story of Heilala Vanilla, a premium vanilla brand originating from Tonga that has gained international recognition. Discover how the business combines community engagement, authentic storytelling, and innovative branding to disrupt the vanilla industry and promote Pacific excellence. KeywordsPacif

S01 E18B - Special Episode: extended interview with Srishti Narayan Apr 20, 2026 00:41:41 While the edited version of the talanoa with Sristhi Narayan, Chief Marketing Officer at Tourism Fiji, is included in the regular weekly Podcast Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod felt that the extended interview should also be published this week. So here is the full interview with Sristhi.

S01 E18 - Talanoa with Srishti Narayan, CMO of Tourism Fiji - April 18 2026 Apr 19, 2026 00:36:25 SummaryIn this episode, Glen and David interview Sristhi Narayan, Chief Marketing Officer at Tourism Fiji, to explore insights into Fiji's tourism industry, and lessons learned from her tenure. They also discuss recent developments in Pacific sports and digital connectivity. KeywordsTourism Fiji, marketing strategies, Pacific sports, digital connectivity, Fiji tourism, Pacific region, sports franc

S01 E17 - "Across the Ditch" with Frank Yourn, Australia-Pacific Business Council - April 11 2026 Apr 12, 2026 00:38:04 SummaryWith Dave returning after an Easter break in French Polynesia and Glen preparing for cyclone Vaianu, Two Palagi talanoa with Frank Yourn, a seasoned expert in Pacific regional business and diplomacy. Frank is Executive Director of the Australian Pacific business councils. Discover insights on Pacific trade, infrastructure, and opportunities for Australian and New Zealand businesses to thriv

S01 E16 - South Pacific Tourism Exchange - March 30 2026 Mar 30, 2026 00:25:22 SummaryIn this episode, Dave and Glen acknowledge the passing of Ratu Epeli. Glen visits the Pasifika festival on Waiheke Island and we speak about the on-going impact of fuel supply disruption.On a positive note we cover discussion points from the South Pacific Tourism Exchange and the increasing digital connectivity across the Pacific.For Easter Dave is travelling to Tahiti so Two Palagi in a Pi

S01 E15 - Talking Tonga with Business Council Chair Rachel Afeaki-Tamoepeau - March 21 2026 Mar 24, 2026 00:41:08 Glen and Dave talanoa with Rachel Afeaki who, among many other things, chairs the New Zealand Tonga Business Council. Rachel recently co-led New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's mission to Samoa and Tonga. We find out what happened on the mission and whether 'Eti Fixed the Glitch'. With ongoing hostilities in the middle east upsetting world fuel supplies we also talk about how that is im

S01 E14 - NZ PM Luxon visits Samoa and Tonga - March 14 2026 Mar 14, 2026 00:26:43 The New Zealand Prime Minister is about to lead a delegation to Samoa and Tonga so Dave and Glen preview that visit. Talk about what these types of missions entail, how delegates can maximise the value of being on the mission and speculate about which businesses might be along for the ride.They also review the impact of the Iran conflict, talk about ADB's loan for improving healthcare in Fiji and

S01 E13 - Niue Development Bank - Talanoa with GM, Jesse Koorey-Slow - March 7 2026 Mar 9, 2026 00:35:18 Dave and Glen talanoa with Jesse Koorey-Slow who is currently running the Niue Development Bank and find out about life on Niue and that the NDB is doing some very interesting work to digitize their processes.

S01 E12- Mapping the Pacific - Talanoa with Chris and Nina, Kahuto Pacific - February 28 2026 Feb 28, 2026 00:37:39 Dave talks with Chris Saili and Janina Wetzel about the journey of building a business in the Pacific, the challenges and opportunities in the region, the role of partnerships and growth, the ADB Frontier Seed Program, the Moana Data Services business model, data accessibility and infrastructure in the Pacific, and advice for doing business in the region. Key takeaways include the importance of co

S01 E11 - Understanding the ADB - February 20 2026 Feb 21, 2026 00:32:22 With the president of Asia Development Bank traveling throughout the Pacific this week Dave and Glen take the opportunity to talk about the work of the ADB. Looking at some of this week's announcements including the opening of a new ADB office in the Solomon Islands and also discussing broad developments of how the ADB finds projects across the Pacific region. How should business engage?

S01 E10 - Air Rarotonga MD, Sir Ewan Smith - February 13 2026 Feb 16, 2026 00:35:05 In this engaging conversation, Sir Ewan Smith shares his journey in the aviation industry, detailing the challenges and innovations he faced while establishing and running an airline in the Cook Islands. He discusses the critical role of air access in supporting tourism, the impact of COVID-19 on his business, and the importance of community and local talent in sustaining operations. Ewan also ref

S01 E09 - Waitangi Day in the Pacific - February 6 2026 Feb 8, 2026 00:31:29 Glen and Dave discuss various themes surrounding Pacific business, including community celebrations for Waitangi Day, the impact of the late Sanjesh Prasad on the Vision Group, tourism opportunities in Fiji and Palau, updates on the banking sector, infrastructure developments, mining prospects in Bougainville, and the growth of the kava industry.TakeawaysWaitangi Day celebrations foster community

S01 E08 - Talanoa with Fiji Investment Chair Jenny Seeto - January 30 2026 Jan 31, 2026 00:37:23 In this episode Dave and Glen talk Pacific tourism, through their talanoa with Jenny Seeto who chaired the recent Fiji Tourism Summit. They also talk about Jenny's career and about the key ingredients of Fiji's tourism success: collaboration and connectivity in the tourism industry, outcomes and next steps for Fiji's tourism industry, future initiatives and trends in Fiji's tourism industry, and b

S01 E07 - People Movement: Migration and Tourism - January 23 2026 Jan 24, 2026 00:34:23 In this episode, Glen and Dave discuss the movement of people across the Pacific, focusing on tourism trends in Fiji and the Cook Islands, migration patterns in Vanuatu, and the implications of the US visa bond. They also touch on the redevelopment of Air Vanuatu and the upcoming New Zealand election.TakeawaysThe Pacific business landscape is vibrant and evolving.Recent weather events have impacte

S01 E06 - Talking Sport with Fiji Drua Head of Sales Josefa Vanuaca - January 16 2026 Jan 18, 2026 00:40:45 In this episode of Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod, hosts Glen and David delve into the business of Pacific sports, highlighting significant events and developments across the region. They discuss recent experiences at the ASB Auckland Open tennis tournament and the inaugural Pickleball Open in Rarotonga, showcasing the growing interest in diverse sports. The conversation shifts to the Coral Coast Se

S01 E01 - The First Episode - Nov 30 2025 Dec 7, 2025 00:34:29 This week Dave comes back from Papua New Guinea and tells us about the opportunities there and Glen attends a conference on Pacific Business in Auckland

S01 E04 - Talanoa with BSP Life CIO Craig Strong - Dec 20 2025 Dec 19, 2025 00:34:58 Dave and Glen sit down with Craig Strong, Chief Investment Officer for BSP Life in Suva to talanoa about Craig’s background, BSP’s approach to investment and their growing connection to Iwi investors in Aotearoa.

S01 E03 - PNG Investment Week - Dec 12 2025 Dec 13, 2025 00:28:53 Kia ora, bula, kia orana, talofa and welcome to Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod with Glen Murphy and Dave Dewar. In this episode we recap Papua New Guinea Investment Week and discuss the major announcements shaping business across the Pacific.Highlights include the Puk Puk Treaty, Australia’s $600 million commitment to Papua New Guinea’s new NRL team, visa changes to boost tourism, and updates on maj

S01 E02 - Auckland's Pacific Economy and Energy Fiji - Dec 5 2025 Dec 7, 2025 00:32:41 Glen does his homework and talks about the Auckland Council report that quantifies the importance of the Pacific economy in Auckland while Dave attends a roundtable session to understand Energy Fiji’s investment pipeline and talks about the excellent results from Fiji’s National Provident Fund.

S01 E05 - the year ahead in the Pacific 2026 - January 9 2026 Jan 12, 2026 00:36:21 Great to be back in 2026 and as we start the year Dave talks about the year ahead with some major events coming up in the tourism and in the infra-structure sectors. We look at some of the developments in energy across the region with a focus on energy pricing in Fiji and we discuss the movie-style bank heist that happened in Vanuatu during the holiday season.

Episodes

Recommended