Lemon Drops

From Science to Spirits – Juno’s Jo James In this episode of Lemon Drops, Anna Richardson chats with Jo James, co-founder of Juno Gin, about the journey from science to building one of New Zealand’s standout craft gin brands. Recently recognised at the Women in Food and Drink Awards for her work in Food Science & Technology, Jo shares insights into leadership, taking the leap into business, an...

In this special episode of Lemon Drops with Smokeylemon, host Anna Richardson sits down with Chris Herlihy from Pride Taranaki to talk about what Pride means in a regional community – and why connection, visibility, and safe spaces matter more than ever. Pride Taranaki is a volunteer-led group focused on building community and being a visible, supportive voice for the rainbow community in Taranaki...

In 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...

This 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. 🎧 List...

In 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, an...

In 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 initia...

In 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.

Step 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 f...

Discover 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 in...

In 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 i...

In 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...

Welcome 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 day...

Join 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 w...

Discover 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 va...

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 p...

In 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, bus...

In 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 lov...

Join 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...

This 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...

Join 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, explo...

In 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...

Join 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 memo...

Host 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....

Join 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 o...

Join 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 pas...