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Open for Small Business

Open for Small Business

Written by: Presented by Xero
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About this listen

Welcome to Open for Small Business, the podcast that shines a light on the heart and hustle of small business owners across Aotearoa New Zealand. Hosted by Bridget Snelling, Country Manager for Xero in Aotearoa, we’re bringing you a series that’s all about celebrating the people behind the businesses - the dreamers, the doers, and the difference-makers.


In each episode, we dive deep into the real stories of small business life. From the exhilarating highs of a breakthrough moment to the tough lessons learned in the trenches, we explore what it truly takes to build and sustain a business in today’s ever-changing landscape. You’ll hear candid conversations with inspiring Xero customers and industry experts who’ve weathered storms, seized opportunities, and carved out their own paths to success.


There are so many incredible small businesses across the motu that are thriving, bucking economic trends, innovating in their industries, and making a meaningful impact in their communities. That’s why we launched this podcast: to give these voices a platform, to share their wisdom, and to remind every small business owner out there that they’re not alone.


Whether you’re just starting out, scaling up, or simply looking for a dose of inspiration, Open for Small Business is here to support you with insights, encouragement, and a whole lot of admiration for the mahi you do every day.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Presented by Xero Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Calm Under Pressure: Sarah Laurie on building resilience for the New Year

    Calm Under Pressure: Sarah Laurie on building resilience for the New Year
    Dec 3 2025

    In this season finale of Open for Small Business, Bridget sits down with Sarah Laurie, founder of Take a Breath, for a conversation about starting the year with purpose and strength. Together, they explore how small business owners can set clear intentions and achievable goals - and why investing in capability and resilience isn’t a cost, but a competitive advantage.


    Sarah shares practical, science-backed techniques to calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and sharpen focus - simple tools that help leaders and teams perform at their best, both in business and in life.


    This episode reframes wellbeing as a smart business strategy and a powerful way to step into the new year with clarity and confidence.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    45 mins
  • Retail Reset: Retail NZ’s CEO on navigating Black Friday and beyond

    Retail Reset: Retail NZ’s CEO on navigating Black Friday and beyond
    Nov 23 2025

    Bridget speaks to Carolyn Young, CEO of Retail NZ, for a special episode on the retail sector as Black Friday and the holiday season approaches.


    Bridget and Carolyn discuss the opportunities ahead for Kiwi small businesses and consumers alike, sharing insights from Retail NZ’s latest Retail Radar survey and Xero’s Small Business Insights.


    From tackling international competition to strategies for stock management and discounting, the conversation explores how small businesses can stay resilient and cash in on one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    35 mins
  • People first: Cat Peters on building a high performing business

    People first: Cat Peters on building a high performing business
    Nov 5 2025

    Bridget chats with Cat Peters, co-founder of HireStaff — a recruitment agency with a difference. With a background in marketing and a passion for people, Cat shares how she and her team are reshaping the way businesses hire, onboard, and retain talent in Aotearoa.

    From launching HireStaff during uncertain times to building a values-led company culture, Cat opens up about the challenges and triumphs of growing a business that puts people at the heart of everything.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    33 mins
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