Shows
Lemon DropsEpisode 40 | The Building Wellness StoryIn this episode of Lemon Drops, Anna Richardson is joined by Campbell Mattson, Founder and Trustee of Building Wellness Taranaki, and Christina Lorth, General Manager, for an important conversation about wellbeing in the construction industry.
Campbell shares the big-picture vision and purpose behind Building Wellness, while Christina offers insight into the day-to-day work happening on the ground — supporting people, building connections, and changing culture across the sector.
An honest, practical discussion about leadership, mental health, and why looking after people is essential to a stronger industry.
Learn more at www.buildingwellness.co.nz
2026-02-0921 minLemon DropsEpisode 39 | Smokeylemon in 2026 Better Systems & Big Energy & FUNThis Lemon Drops episode Anna sat down the BIg Cheese Mands to talk all about slowing down to do things properly 🍋
Boundaries, saying no, and better scheduling
Giving more love to our clients
What’s coming next
Celebrating 25 years of Smokeylemon
Community, connection, and doing business with heart
No hustle culture. No rushing.
Just intention, clarity, and building something that lasts.
🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more!
2026-01-2127 minLemon DropsEpisode 38 | Building Safer Families with Taranaki Safe Families TrustIn this powerful and important episode of Lemon Drops, we sit down with Dan Haskell, Coordinator/Manager of Taranaki Safe Families Trust (TSFT) to talk about the vital work being done across our region to prevent family violence and strengthen community wellbeing.
Taranaki Safe Families Trust is a collaborative network of agencies working together to create safer homes, healthier relationships, and more resilient communities. Dan shares insight into how this collaboration works in practice, the realities of family harm in Taranaki, and the positive change happening every day through education, prevention, and community connection.
We...
2025-12-0135 minLemon DropsEpisode 37 | From Sanctuary to Hope - The Story of Taranaki RetreatIn this episode, Jamie Allen co-founder of Taranaki Retreat shares with Anna his families personal journey from deep loss to creating a sanctuary of hope for people.
We explore what inspired the foundation of Taranaki Retreat, the challenges faced, how the kaupapa (purpose) has evolved, and what led to the creation of Waimanako (Hope Centre) in New Plymouth.
Jamie discusses the impact these initiatives have had, the realities of expanding support in the heart of the city, and what hope truly means. We also talk about moving premises and envision the future of wellbeing in...
2025-11-2428 minLemon DropsEpisode 36 | Stu Sutherland Behind the LensIn this episode, we’re flipping the script and Anna chats to the guy who’s usually behind the camera, Stu Sutherland.
He’s our senior designer at Smokeylemon, plus the creative mind behind Franchise NZ Magazine’s fresh look and feel. We’ll dive into how Stu mixes design smarts and storytelling to bring brands and magazines to life.
2025-11-1623 minLemon DropsEpisode 35 | Jimi Hunt: Behind the Creative VisionStep into the world of Jimi Hunt, Smokeylemon’s Creative Director, in this candid conversation with host Anna Richardson, Jimi peels back the layers of creativity, career, and personal growth. Discover how his upbringing and values have shaped his outlook on wellbeing, his journey through major roles at Newshub and MetService, and what drew him to lead creativity at Smokeylemon. Whether you're a fellow creative, aspiring professional, or simply curious, this episode offers insight into Jimi’s daily life, passions, and the experiences that continue to inspire him.
2025-11-0429 minLemon DropsEpisode 34 | SEO, AI & Analytics with MandsDiscover the secrets to getting your brand found online! Mands, the Big Cheese at Smokeylemon, breaks down SEO in simple terms, explains how AI is changing search, reveals what analytics really tell you, and shares her top tips for boosting visibility and creating content that connects.
Whether you’re new to digital marketing or sharpening your strategy, tune in for actionable advice and expert insights. Subscribe for more marketing wisdom and practical strategies!
2025-10-2921 minLemon DropsEpisode 33 | Hope in Action: Stories from Roderique Hope TrustIn this episode of Hope in Action Anna sits down with Michelle from the Roderique Hope Emergency Housing Trust in Taranaki.
Together, we explore the heart behind the mahi, how the Trust began, the families they support, and the hope that drives their mission every day. Through honest kōrero and powerful stories, Michelle shares what “wrap-around support” truly means for whānau navigating housing insecurity and how community plays a vital role in creating lasting change. ❤️
Learn more about Roderique Hope Trust’s services like Transitional Housing, Sustaining Tenancies, and Ready to Rent — and discover how y...
2025-10-2224 minLemon DropsEpisode 32 | On Guard: With Phil from 24/7 SecurityIn this episode host Anna Richardson goes behind the scenes of the security world with Phil Jackson, founder of 24/7 Security Solutions.
From managing night shifts and live event protection to navigating unexpected challenges, Phil shares what it really takes to keep Taranaki safe.
Discover how a locally owned business built trust across the region, adapted to tech innovations, and maintained team spirit in one of the toughest industries around.
Whether you’re a business owner, event organiser, or security professional, this episode offers grounded insights on leadership, resilience, and community safety.
2025-10-1614 minLemon DropsEpisode 31 | Global Roots: The Gavin Faull StoryWelcome to “Global Roots: The Gavin Faull Story.” From Tikorangi fields to international skylines, Gavin Faull’s journey is one of vision, hard work, and family heritage.
A proud Taranaki native, Gavin has been supported throughout his remarkable journey by his wife of 54 years, Carol, who also hails from Taranaki.
In this episode, Gavin sits down with host Anna Richardson to discuss his early days in rural Taranaki, the challenges of scaling Swiss-Belhotel to over 145 hotels worldwide, and the values that guide him as a global hospitality icon.
Subscribe for deep-dive interviews, leadership lesson...
2025-10-0926 minLemon DropsEpisode 30 | Waves of Change with SachaJoin us on Waves of Change, the podcast celebrating trailblazers in the sailing world. In this episode, we sit down with Sacha McGregor, the first-ever female commodore of the New Plymouth Yacht Club in its 86-year history. From her first steps into sailing, to leading with vision, to her Olympic ambitions as a race officer for 2032, Sacha shares what it means to balance tradition and innovation while making the club more inclusive for future generations.
2025-10-0112 minLemon DropsEpisode 29 | Atāwhai in ActionDiscover how Atāwhai Trust drives empowerment and genuine inclusion in Taranaki in this episode of "Community Podcast: Atāwhai in Action." Host Anna Richardson sit's down with Rik Allen, GM of Atāwhai, to explore the organisation’s mission, diverse services, including: horticulture, arborist work, and food redistribution and their impact on local people. Hear inspiring stories, learn about core values like manaakitanga and aroha, and find out how Atāwhai fosters independence and fresh career paths. Curious about getting involved or upcoming projects? Tune in for a heartfelt look at Atāwhai’s role in creating a vibrant a...
2025-09-2328 minLemon DropsEpisode 28 | Happy Birthday to Smokeylemon!Reflecting on 24 years of creativity, chaos, and culture! Welcome to Smokeylemon’s story. In this episode, Mandy shares the defining moments, toughest lessons, and funniest team traditions from our journey since 2001. We dive into the myths about running a creative business, our most unexpected client requests, and even imagine the film version of Smokeylemon. Packed with reflection, humour, and plenty of heart, this is a must watch for anyone curious about the reality of building a creative business and what the next 24 years might hold.
2025-09-1826 minLemon DropsEpisode 27 | Spotswood Stories: Pride & LegacyIn this uplifting Lemon Drops conversation, Anna welcomes local legend Phil Gayton aka “Mr G”. Phil shares reflections from his decades shaping, coaching, and inspiring Spotswood College students. Phil discusses the school’s proud legacy, celebrates alumni achievements, and delves into the spirit that unites the Spotswood community. Listen for memorable stories of success from sport, the arts, business, and beyond, and discover how Spotswood’s traditions inspire every new generation.
2025-09-1024 minLemon DropsEpisode 26 | Threads of Guize with Tash CorriganIn this episode, Anna Richardson is joined by Tash, the new owner of Guize Clothing in New Plymouth. Together, they dive into: The journey of taking over a local fashion store, behind-the-scenes shop stories (yes, mannequins included!) New brands and trends in store What fashion feels like in Taranaki This is a lighthearted, insightful chat about style, community, and the joy of doing what you love.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you love a good mix of fashion + local flavor!
2025-09-0321 minLemon DropsEpisode 25 | Pints and Plates with Shining Peak BrewingJoin us for a fun, behind-the-scenes chat at Shining Peak Brewing with Luke Anderson and Freddie Ponder. This episode is all about laughs, local flavor, and community vibes. We dive into: The magic of beer + food done right The 5% Project giving back to Taranaki Silly superpowers, funny hypotheticals, and plenty of giggles Whether you’re here for craft beer inspo, foodie tips, or just a good laugh with the Shining Peak crew, this one’s for you.
Warning: R18. Please drink responsibly. Shining Peak encourages you to “Drink Beer, Do Good” — always in moderation.
2025-08-2723 minLemon DropsBonus Episode | Sole Passion with Mands & AnnaThis is your invite to join a real, heartfelt chat—not your usual marketing talk. We recorded this a while back and then thought why not use it!
Step into the world of shoe love with Mands and Anna from Smokeylemon! In this episode, we’re not talking marketing – we’re talking PASSION. 👟✨
Shoes are so much more than a fashion statement for us: they inspire confidence, spark happiness, and give us a reason to walk a little taller every day. Whether you’re a sneakerhead, a heel aficionado, or just someone who knows the joy of comfy ki...
2025-08-1911 minLemon DropsEpisode 24 | Age is Just a NumberJoin host Anna Richardson as she sits down with artist Paul Rangiwahia and Richard Anderson, CEO of Age Concern Taranaki, for a warm and inspiring conversation about what it really means to age well.
Discover the story behind the artwork “Age Is Just a Number” and learn how it’s helping change conversations—and lives—in our community.
We dive into the heart of Age Concern Taranaki’s mission, explore how creativity can challenge stereotypes about growing older, and hear firsthand how every dollar raised supports vital local services—from elder abuse response, to health classes, to fr...
2025-08-1319 minLemon DropsEpisode 23 | Rebranding Insights with our Creative Director Jimi HuntIn this episode , we sit down with Jimi Hunt, our Creative Director at Smokeylemon, to uncover what truly drives a successful rebrand.
From strategic timing (yes, even in winter!) to real-world examples like Cruise Te Anau and Coastal Medical, Jimi walks us through the key signals a brand needs a refresh, the creative journey behind the scenes, and how to ensure a new identity resonates with both current and future audiences.
Whether you're a small business owner wondering if it's time for a brand upgrade, or a marketer intrigued by rebranding strategy, this episode is...
2025-08-0526 minLemon DropsEpisode 22 | Masterpieces & Milestones: The Dalgleish Diamonds StoryJoin us on Lemon Drops as we celebrate Dalgleish Diamonds — crowned Supreme Winner at the Taranaki Top Shop Awards 2025!
Owners Bill Roy and Lynnette Rowan share their incredible journey, revealing the secrets behind over a century of brilliance in jewellery design and exceptional customer care.
In this episode: Discover how Dalgleish crafts bespoke pieces that capture personal milestones and memories.
Hear stories of creativity, technical mastery, and the challenges of innovation in a fast-evolving industry. Learn how community, legacy, and deep emotional connections drive everything they do.
Tune in for a he...
2025-07-2929 minLemon DropsEpisode 19 | Festival Fabric: The TAFT StoryHost Anna Richardson caught up with with Suzanne Porter, CEO of the Taranaki Arts Festival Trust (TAFT), ahead of their latest festival and chatted about the vibrant arts scene and iconic festivals that have shaped Taranaki’s cultural landscape. From WOMAD New Zealand to the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival, discover the stories, challenges, and community impact behind TAFT’s world-class events. Tune in for inspiring conversations and exclusive insights into the magic of Taranaki’s festivals!
2025-07-2132 minLemon DropsEpisode 20 | Travel Tales with Helloworld's Bev ElliceJoin Bev Ellice, Managing Director of Helloworld Strandon—the top Helloworld travel store in New Zealand—as she shares her inspiring journey from travel agent to franchise owner. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, career highlights, and unforgettable group trips to destinations like Antarctica, Japan, and the Chatham Islands. Whether you're a travel enthusiast or curious about the business side of travel, Bev offers expert insights, fun anecdotes, and dream trip ideas that bring the world closer to you. Subscribe and explore the person and passion behind New Plymouth’s leading travel agency.
2025-07-1028 minLemon DropsEpisode 21| Mortgages with Heart: The Stephanie Murray StoryJoin us for an inspiring episode featuring Stephanie Murray, founder of Stephanie Murray Mortgages. Discover how Stephanie turned a bold idea into a nationwide business, all while raising over $200,000 for charity and making a real difference in her community. From first-home buyers to charity golf tournaments, Stephanie shares her entrepreneurial secrets, leadership lessons, and the heartfelt passion that drives her work. Don’t miss this deep dive into business growth, giving back, and what’s next for one of New Zealand’s most dedicated mortgage advisors!
2025-07-0817 minLemon DropsEpisode 17 | Getting to Know the Taranaki Health FoundationGetting to Know the Taranaki Health Foundation - Hear how your support makes a real difference in Taranaki’s healthcare.
In our latest podcast episode, Grant shares stories about their key projects—like the Taranaki Cancer Centre and Neonatal Unit—and how donations help our community.
Learn how you can get involved and stay updated at https://thf.org.nz/
2025-07-0129 minLemon DropsEpisode 16 | Supporting Musical Talent in TaranakiStep inside Taranaki’s vibrant music scene! In this episode, we sit down with Drew from the Taranaki Music Society to talk about their journey, the unique energy of Asgard (formerly 8 Ball), and how they’re supporting local musicians and creatives.
Find out more about the Taranaki Music Society:
Website: https://taranakimusicsociety.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570232783654
2025-06-2327 minLemon DropsEpisode 15 | The Rise of Brandlab - Taranaki’s One Stop Branding ShopIn this episode, Dylan from Brandlab shares the story of how a small garage operation in Inglewood grew into a full-service branding studio, now serving clients from their New Plymouth HQ. We talk through the journey from Signright to Brandlab, the merger with other local creatives, and their collaboration with Smokeylemon on some exciting projects. Plus, we explore the value of full-service branding and what’s next in the world of design.
To connect with Brandlab…
Website: thebrandlab.co.nz/contact
Instagram: @brandlabnz
Facebook: facebook.com/BrandlabNZ
2025-06-1014 minLemon DropsEpisode 14 | The WR Phillips Legacy – Family, Leadership & the Future of AutomotiveJoin us for a special conversation with Paul (Dealer Principal) and Julia Phillips (Operations Manager) from WR Phillips, Taranaki’s iconic family-owned dealership—winner of Mitsubishi Dealer of the Year for the 5th year running!
In this episode, we explore:
- What it means to carry on an 80-year family legacy, now in its fourth generation
- The strengths and stories each generation has brought to WR Phillips
- How family values shape company culture and customer relationships
- Community involvement, including the 75 Year Community Project
Whether you’re passionate about cars...
2025-06-0330 minLemon DropsEpisode 13 | Melissa’s Legacy: The Heart of the Mellowpuff Charitable TrustIn this episode, we speak with Terry and Tanya Long, founders of the Mellowpuff Charitable Trust. They share the heartfelt story of their daughter Melissa, whose wish to help others inspired the creation of the Trust. Learn about the incredible impact the Trust has on children and families in Taranaki and how you can support their mission. https://www.mellowpufftrust.co.nz/
🔔 Don’t forget to follow/subscribe to hear more inspiring local stories, and to never miss an episode
2025-05-2942 minLemon DropsEpisode 12 | Mastering Social Media in 2025In this episode, Mandy G from Smokeylemon shares her top tips for creating social media content that actually works.
From what to post and when, to batching, hashtags, and keeping your brand looking sharp—she’s got you covered. Mandy also dives into common struggles and easy wins to help you show up better online, fast.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, this episode is packed with actionable advice you won’t want to miss!
Keen to let us help you? Then reach out to us today https://smokeyle...
2025-05-2130 minLemon DropsEpisode 11 | Inside Professionals Real Estate Taranaki with Principal Kris RasmussenBe inspired by one of Taranaki’s leading real estate minds! Tune in to our latest podcast episode featuring Kris Rasmussen, Principal of Professionals Real Estate New Plymouth. Kris shares his journey as principal, director, and major shareholder, his passion for innovation, and how he empowers his team to deliver world-class results for clients. If you want to hear how daring to be different sets Professionals apart in the Taranaki property market, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
Connect with Kris Rasmussen: https://www.professionals.co.nz/agent/kris-rasmussen
...
2025-05-1435 minLemon DropsEpisode 10 | Crafting Your Dream Home with Latitude Homes' Graham WellingtonIn this episode of Lemon Drops, we chat with Graham Wellington, Licensee owner of Latitude Homes Taranaki/Manawatu. Graham shares his journey from running a local construction company to leading Latitude Homes with a focus on making the building process stress-free and enjoyable. Discover how Latitude Homes tailors designs, offers flexible customisation, and delivers award-winning quality. If you’re thinking about building a home in the region, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss!
2025-05-0713 minLemon DropsEpisode 9 | Talking Resilience: Coping with Life's CurveballsGet ready for an honest and uplifting episode of the Lemon Drops podcast with Smokeylemon’s Big Cheese, Mands, and Anna Richardson. For the first time, Anna opens up about the reality of being made redundant from her previous career-a turning point she’s only recently started speaking about publicly. Anna shares how confronting this challenge not only tested her resilience but also became the catalyst for her personal and professional reinvention.
Tune in for a powerful conversation about vulnerability, bouncing back, the power of resilience and the courage it takes to share your story and embrace new...
2025-04-2819 minLemon DropsEpisode 8 | An Honest Talk About the Marketing Industry, with the Big CheeseMandy McGregor, the Big Cheese, is back for round two! This time we’re diving deep into the real talk behind the marketing world. No buzzwords, no fluff—just an honest chat about what it actually takes to get noticed in a crowded space.
We cover everything from the ups and downs of social media, to why some businesses disappear online (and why that’s a problem), to how podcasting can help build real connection. Mandy shares her take on what works, what doesn’t, and why passion and relationships are still the heart of good marketing.
If...
2025-04-1628 minLemon DropsEpisode 7 | A Heart That Broke Free: A Conversation with Life Coach Liz FryJoin us for an inspiring conversation with life coach and author Liz Fry as she shares insights from her book "A Heart That Broke Free."
Liz opens up about the struggles so many of us face, feeling like we're not enough, battling imposter syndrome, and learning to embrace vulnerability as a source of strength. Through real journal entries, powerful client stories, and her own lived experiences, Liz offers practical wisdom and emotional insight to help you reconnect with your self-worth.
Whether you're navigating your own healing journey or just need a little encouragement today, this h...
2025-04-0938 minLemon DropsEpisode 6 | Celebrating Admins with Lisa Lowe, EA to the New Plymouth MayorThis month, we celebrate World Administrative Professionals Day, shining a light on the people who keep everything smoothly behind the scenes. In this episode, we chat with Lisa Lowe, Executive Assistant to the Mayor of New Plymouth. Lisa shares insights into her role and why the administrative career path is so much more than just support. Tune in as we recognise the importance of admins and the impact they have on organisations every day.
2025-04-0325 minLemon DropsEpisode 5 | The Pride Behind Pride TaranakiThis week on Lemon Drops, we sit down with Chris Herlihy—the driving force behind Taranaki Pride Week. From his background in event management with WOMAD to being on the Pride Taranaki committee, Chris has been at the heart of building a vibrant and inclusive celebration in the region. We dive into the journey from the first-ever Taranaki Pride Week in 2024 to this year’s expanded lineup and explore what makes Taranaki such a special place for him. Plus, we get to know Chris on a personal level with some fun, unexpected questions!
2025-03-2622 minLemon DropsEpisode 4 | The Making of a Creative DirectorWhat does it take to become a Creative Director? In this episode of Lemon Drops, Anna sits down with Jimi Hunt, Smokeylemon’s very own Creative Director, to chat about his journey into design, his university experience, thoughts on AI in the creative industry, and more.
If you’re curious about the world of design, creativity, and what goes on behind the scenes, this one’s for you!
2025-03-1921 minLemon DropsEpisode 3 | Dark Mode vs. Light ModeIn this episode of Lemon Drops, Smokeylemon’s Anna Richardson dives into the ultimate tech debate: Dark Mode vs. Light Mode! Which one is easier on the eyes? Does Dark Mode really save battery? And is Light Mode actually better for productivity? We break down the pros, cons, and science behind both, so you can finally settle the debate for yourself.
2025-03-1703 minLemon DropsEpisode 2 | Beyond the Refuge: Aotearoa Women Leading ChangeIn this special episode for International Women's Day, we chat with two incredible women—Shona Smith, Relationship Manager at Taranaki Women’s Refuge, and Rebecca Johnson, Marketing Manager at Centre City & dedicated Women’s Refuge volunteer. They're getting real about change, gender equality, and the challenges women face today—plus so much more you won't want to miss!
2025-03-1733 minLemon DropsEpisode 1 | Behind the name: Smokeylemon & our story featuring Mandy McGregorWelcome to the inaugural episode of Lemon Drops, hosted by Smokeylemon's very own, Anna Richardson. In this episode, we delve into the origins and growth of the Smokeylemon brand, with its charismatic owner, Mandy McGregor. Discover the intriguing story behind the unique name, "Smokeylemon" and explore the bold transition from a web design niche to a creative marketing powerhouse!
2025-03-1719 min