Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod

Епизоди

• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - Pacific Infrastructure Conference - May 30 2026 01.06.2026 41мин

  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 with Titi Tutuvanu-Schwalger who is the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles Advisor to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretary and with Jay Bartlett CEO of Hatanga Construction. KeywordsPacific infrastructure, localization, community development, regional collaboration, Pacific Islands, infrastructure projects, local businesses, community impact Key  topicsLocalization in infrastructure projectsRegional collaboration and partnershipPacific Quality Infrastructure Principles Sound bites"Increasing localization in the region""Contributing to community outcomes""Great to see this initiative growing" Chapters00:00 Podcast Introduction03:40 Introduction to the Pacific Infrastructure Business Opportunities Seminar06:56 Introduction to Titi08:23 Understanding the Role of Titi in Pacific Infrastructure10:25 Exploring the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles12:50 Local Content and Its Importance in Infrastructure Projects14:15 Building Relationships for Effective Localization15:50 Challenges and Opportunities in the Pacific Infrastructure Sector21:45 Jay Bartlett from Hatanga Construction35:35 Conclusion and the week ahead ResourcesPacific Infrastructure Conference 2026 - https://example.com/pacific-infrastructure-2023Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles - Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles.pdfHatanga Construction - Hatanga - Solomon Islands Construction & InfrastructureBy Group – https://www.bygroup.com.au
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - a new brand and talanoa with Greenhouse Studio - May 23 2026 23.05.2026 40мин

  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 Studio, Pacific Creative Economy, Fiji, Design, Branding, Cultural Identity, Pacific Art, Creative Industry, Pacific Stories, Visual IdentityKey TopicsGreenhouse Studio's origin and growth over 12 yearsThe studio's focus on meaningful, community-driven workDesign process and cultural considerations in brandingThe studio's services: from branding to multimedia productionThe future of the Pacific creative economy and opportunities for growthPacific Cultural Design PrinciplesGuest  NamesMaria Rona Luna Pastorizo SekiguchiElenoa SokovataTomasi KororuaSound Bites"We wanted our work to be meaningful""The logo reflects Pacific culture subtly""We are the ones to make things happen"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod09:25 Introduction to the Greenhouse Studio13:40 The Journey of Greenhouse Studio17:52 Creative Process and Collaboration22:16 Designing the Visual Identity for Tupalangi26:30 Future of the Creative Economy in Fiji30:58 The Week Ahead at PBOSResourcesGreenhouse Studio Website - https://greenhouse.studio/.   Creative Economy Insights - https://creativenz.govt.nz/about-creative-nz/corporate-documents/pacific-arts-strategy-2023-2028Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - two.palagi@gmail.com
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - in conversation with the ADB - May 16 2026 16.05.2026 33мин

  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 fosters regional collaboration to improve community outcomes.KeywordsPacific infrastructure, procurement, Asian Development Bank, Jenny, Nandi Conference, development challenges, regional collaborationGuest  nameJenny Chu (Asian Development Bank)TitlesHow the ADB is Shaping Pacific Development in 2024ADB's role in Pacific infrastructureProcurement policy and innovationRegional collaboration and capacity buildingSound bites"Jenny's implacable and well considered.""Jenny is very open and a great first contact.""Evolving procurement policies in the region."Chapters00:00 Podcast Introduction10:02 Jenny's Role and Background in ADB12:44 Understanding Procurement Policy15:16 Insights from the Roadshow in Australia and New Zealand18:07 Engagement with the Business Community20:50 Advice for Businesses in the Infrastructure Sector23:18 Upcoming Pacific Infrastructure Business Opportunity Seminars27:27 Podcast outroResourcesAsian Development Bank (ADB) - https://www.adb.orgPacific Infrastructure Business Opportunities Seminar (PBOS) - https://https://www.adb.org/news/events/pacific-infrastructure-business-opportunities-seminar-2026Two Palagi email - two.palagi@gmail.com
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - a talanoa with Auckland Council's Sarah Leo - May 9 2026 10.05.2026 45мин

  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 the impactful work of quantifying and supporting the Pacific economy through data, partnerships, and leadership development.Key  topicsQuantifying the Pacific economy in AucklandThe impact of Pacific-owned businesses on the local economyLeadership development and economic growth strategies for Pacific communitiesGuest  nameSarah Leo Sound bites"By 2043, one in five workers in Auckland will be of Pacific descent.""Our growth is in Pacific businesses, especially in creative sectors.""I love the work I do and feel privileged to contribute."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Talanoa 09:55 Economic Development and the Role of Pacific Businesses15:03 Quantifying the Pacific Economy: Insights and Data19:50 Partnerships and Collaborative Initiatives for Growth24:59 Cultural Influence and Creative Exports30:12 Conclusion and Future Aspirations37:00 Pacific Activity this weekResourcesTeu Le Va Website - https://aucklandeconomicdevelopment.com/economy-and-insights/research-and-reports/Teu-Le-Va-Pacific-Work-ProgrammeBusiness Trust - https://pacificbusiness.co.nzAuckland Council Economic Development - https://aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - the business of Art - May 2 2026 03.05.2026 35мин

  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 resilience, Pacific culture, Pacific energy, Pacific film, Pacific communityKey  topicsPacific art and film: Sergeant Hane and its cultural impactThe role of art fairs and exhibitions in regional identityPacific resilience through renewable energy projectsConnectivity solutions like Starlink in remote Pacific communitiesChallenges and opportunities in Pacific labor schemes and welfareRecent regional events: Anzac Day and diplomatic engagementsChapters00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode01:00 Personal Updates and Community Engagement03:03 Commemoration of Anzac Day and Its Significance05:28 Exploring Pacific Cinema: The Story of Sergeant Hane07:29 Aotearoa Art Fair: Celebrating Pacific Art09:51 Exhibitions and Artistic Connections in Rarotonga11:46 Future Discussions on Creative Development13:53 Fashion and Cultural Events in the Pacific15:28 Current Issues: Fuel Crisis in the Pacific19:12 Pacific Leaders' Individual Responses to Energy Crisis20:29 Renewable Energy Opportunities in the Pacific21:39 Geothermal Energy Potential in Tonga23:04 Starlink Connectivity and Resilience in the Pacific24:41 Labour Mobility Challenges and Worker Rights29:37 Community Impact of Tragedies on Migrant Workers31:18 Celebrating Local Distilleries and Economic GrowthResourcesSergeant Hane Film - https://www.sergeanthane.co.nzAotearoa Art Fair - https://aotearoaartexpo.co.nzLisa Reihana's Artworks - https://www.bergmangallery.co.nz/artists/lisa-reihanaFiji Fashion Week - https://fijifashionweek.comCreative New Zealand - https://creativenz.govt.nzPacific Renewable Energy Conference - https://energyregion.orgCook Islands Distillery - https://cookislandsdistillery.comBlue Turtle Gin - https://cookislandsdistillery.com/blue-turtle-ginFiji Distillery Company - https://fijidistillery.com
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - Jennifer Boggiss, Heilala Vanilla - April 25 2026 26.04.2026 43мин

   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. KeywordsPacific business, Tonga vanilla, brand storytelling, community impact, global markets, vanilla industry, Pacific branding, entrepreneurship, sustainable development, food innovation Key  topicsOrigin story of Heilala Vanilla in TongaCommunity and sustainability initiativesBranding and marketing strategies for premium productsImpact of Pacific culture on global brandingChallenges and opportunities in Pacific agricultural exportsTitlesFrom Tonga to the World: The Heilala Vanilla Success StoryHow Pacific Roots Disrupt the Global Vanilla MarketChaptersIntroduction to Heilala Vanilla and Its OriginsThe Journey of Heilala VanillaMarketing and Branding StrategiesThe Impact of COVID-19 on BusinessCommunity Engagement and Business SuccessFuture Vision and Growth OpportunitiesCultural Insights and Business Practices ResourcesHeilala Vanilla Website - https://heilalavanilla.co.nz
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - extended interview with Srishti Narayan 20.04.2026 41мин

  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.
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - talanoa with Srishti Narayan, Tourism Fiji April 18 2026 19.04.2026 36мин

  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 franchise, Super Rugby, Fiji economy, tourism marketing Key  topicsTourism Fiji's marketing strategiesImpact of digital connectivity on Pacific regionChallenges faced by Pacific sports franchisesFuture of Fiji's tourism industryRegional digital infrastructure developments TitlesUnlocking Fiji's Tourism Potential: Insights from Sristhi NarayanPacific Sports and Digital Connectivity: Challenges and Opportunities  ResourcesTourism Fiji Official Website - https://www.fiji.travel/Super Rugby Pacific - https://super.rugby/competitions/super-rugby-pacificPacific Island Telecommunications Conference - https://www.pacifictelecomconference.com/Digital Connectivity Initiatives in the Pacific - https://www.example.com/digital-pacific 
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - Frank Yourn, Australia-Pacific Business Council - April 11 2026 12.04.2026 38мин

  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 thrive in the region.KeywordsPacific Business, Australia Pacific Relations, Pacific Infrastructure, Trade Opportunities, Frank Yourn, Pacific Islands, Business Council, Regional Development Key  TopicsPacific trade and economic relationsRole of business councils in Australia and the PacificOpportunities in Pacific infrastructure and climate changeEngagement and collaboration between Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific nationsTitlesUnlocking Pacific Opportunities: Insights from Frank YournThe Future of Pacific Business with Frank Yourn sound bites"Queensland is Australia's Pacific state.""Climate change creates new business opportunities in the Pacific.""Playing the long game is essential for success in the Pacific."Chapters00:00 Welcome to Two Palagi01:05 Exploring Tahiti: A Family Adventure04:00 Economic Insights from French Polynesia05:42 Cyclone Vaianu: Preparedness and Impact08:20 Introducing Frank Yourn: A Pacific Business Leader08:56 Frank Yourn's Journey in Pacific Diplomacy16:58 Navigating Business in the Pacific21:55 Strengthening Connections through MOUs26:36 Emerging Business Opportunities in the Pacific29:32 Advice for Engaging in the Pacific Market36:38 Acknowledgement of Kanti Lal Punja resourcesAustralia Pacific Islands Business Council - www.apibc.org.auAustralia Fiji Business Council - www.afbc.org.auAustralia Papua New Guinea Business Council - apngbc.org.au guest linksLinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/frank-yournfrank@australiapacificbusiness.org.au
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - South Pacific Tourism Exchange - March 30 2026 30.03.2026 25мин

  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 Pisinisi Pod will take a break for the Easter week but we look forward to hear stories of Dave's travels when he's back.Resourcestwo.palagi@gmail.comPacific Infrastructure Business Opportunity SeminarsHome | Pacific Infrastructure Pipeline
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - talking Tonga with Rachel Afeaki - March 21 2026 24.03.2026 41мин

  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 impacting business in the Pacific.
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - NZ PM visits Samoa and Tonga - March 14 2026 14.03.2026 26мин

  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 revisit the Panguna mine deal in PNG.
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - talanoa with Jesse Koorey-Slow, Niue Development Bank - March 7 2026 09.03.2026 35мин

  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.
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - talanoa with Chris and Nina - Kahuto Pacific - February 28 2026 28.02.2026 37мин

  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 community collaboration and the need for data accessibility in the Pacific.TakeawaysCommunity CollaborationData AccessibilityChapters00:00 Building a Business in the Pacific20:48 The ADB Frontier Seed Program27:58 Moana Data Services Business Model37:17 Advice for Doing Business in the Pacific
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - the role of multilateral development banks - February 20 2026 21.02.2026 32мин

  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?
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - Air Rarotonga MD, Sir Ewan Smith - February 13 2026 16.02.2026 35мин

  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 reflects on the future of tourism in the Cook Islands, emphasizing the need for balance and stewardship in the industry. His insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and highlight the unique opportunities within the Pacific Islands.
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - Waitangi Day in the Pacific - February 6 2026 08.02.2026 31мин

  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 spirit and connection.Sanjesh Prasad's legacy will continue through the Vision Group.Tourism is a vital economic driver in the Pacific.Deflation can have negative impacts on economic growth.Infrastructure events provide networking opportunities for businesses.The kava industry is experiencing significant growth in Fiji.Mining developments in Bougainville could reshape the local economy.Sound bites"It's a beautiful space with community feel.""The legacy will continue of the Vision Group.""Deflation is not necessarily a good thing."Chapters00:00 Celebrating Waitangi Day Across the Pacific05:56 Honoring Legacy: The Vision Group and Its Impact08:26 Tourism Trends and Insights from Fiji16:38 Banking Sector Updates and Economic Reflections21:25 Infrastructure Developments and Opportunities29:14 The Rise of Kava: A Growing Industry in FijiDisclaimerDave and Glen both have day jobs with New Zealand Trade & Enterprise and want to make sure listeners know that any views or opinions they express are personal and do not reflect the position of New Zealand Trade & Enterprise.
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - tourism talanoa with Jenny Seeto - January 30 2026 31.01.2026 37мин

  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 business community engagement and opportunities in Fiji.TakeawaysPacific tourism growthImpact of tourism on the Pacific economyChapters00:00 Introduction and Pacific Tourism Growth07:21 Fiji's Tourism Industry and Land Lease Payments23:39 Collaboration and Connectivity in the Tourism Industry29:24 Outcomes and Next Steps for Fiji's Tourism Industry40:44 Business Community Engagement and Opportunities in Fiji
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - people movement: migration and tourism - January 23 2026 24.01.2026 34мин

  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 impacted communities in New Zealand.Fiji is nearing a million tourists, showcasing its appeal.Cook Islands tourism emphasizes local experiences over resorts.Vanuatu faces challenges with labor outflow due to migration schemes.Air Vanuatu is undergoing significant redevelopment efforts.The US visa bond could affect business travel and opportunities.The podcast has gained recognition in both Fiji and Afghanistan.Sound Bites"Fiji had record years for tourism.""Politics play a part in business.""We're number one in Fiji!"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pacific Business Dynamics02:36 Impact of Recent Weather Events in New Zealand04:13 Tourism Trends in Fiji07:08 Exploring the Cook Islands Tourism Model09:56 Vanuatu's Economic Landscape and Labor Migration12:51 Air Vanuatu's Redevelopment Efforts15:21 US Visa Bond and Its Implications18:17 New Zealand Elections Date21:05 Podcast Growth and Future DirectionsDisclaimerDave and Glen are both employed in day jobs at New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE); however, this podcast is their private endeavour so they wish it to be known that any views or opinions expressed in the podcast are personal and do not reflect any positions of NZTE.
• Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - talking sport - Fiji Drua head of sales Jo Vanuaca - January 16 2026 18.01.2026 40мин

  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 Sevens in Fiji, where competitive teams vie for a $50,000 prize, and the recent resignation of All Blacks coach Scott Robertson, a topic that has captured national attention in New Zealand. The episode features a special guest, Josefa Vanuaca, who shares insights into the business side of the Fijian Drua rugby team. He discusses the team's funding structure, revenue streams, and the importance of sponsorship in sustaining the franchise. Josefa emphasizes the evolving nature of sports business in the Pacific, including new initiatives like hybrid streaming options and the significance of women's rugby.