Join hosts David Altena and Rob Bull as they delve into the subject of small and medium- business productivity in New Zealand. With a focus on driving operational excellence and business improvement, The Better SMB Podcast is your go-to resource for strategies, insights, and success stories from the front lines of the SMB sector.
Despite New Zealand’s historical challenges with productivity compared to our OECD peers, David and Rob are on a mission to turn the tide. Tune in to discover actionable
tips, expert interviews, and innovative ideas that will help your business thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, The Better SMB Podcast will equip you with the tools you need to enhance productivity and achieve your business goals.
Connect with us on LinkedIn: @DavidAltena and @RobBull
Join hosts David Altena and Rob Bull as they delve into the subject of small and medium- business productivity in New Zealand. With a focus on driving operational excellence and business improvement, The Better SMB Podcast is your go-to resource for strategies, insights, and success stories from the front lines of the SMB sector.
Despite New Zealand’s historical challenges with productivity compared to our OECD peers, David and Rob are on a mission to turn the tide. Tune in to discover actionable
tips, expert interviews, and innovative ideas that will help your business thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, The Better SMB Podcast will equip you with the tools you need to enhance productivity and achieve your business goals.
Connect with us on LinkedIn: @DavidAltena and @RobBull
In this episode, David and Rob take stock of The Better SMB's podcast's progress halfway through the year. It’s an honest look at what’s gone well, what’s been challenging, and where they’re heading next in their mission to become the go-to voice for small and medium business owners in New Zealand.
They share real numbers, like a 50% growth in Spotify followers and 65% increase in episode plays, and reflect on what’s driving that momentum: consistent content, strong guest insights, and a shared goal of making business success more accessible for SMBs.
But this episode isn’t just about them, it’s packed with relatable lessons for business owners too.
Key insights for SMB owners:
Planning matters: Set a clear target, track your progress, and adjust regularly—don’t let your business plan gather dust.
Just ship it: Don’t wait for perfect. Consistency and iteration beat perfection every time.
Know your data: Look at the numbers to spot trends, make decisions, and push performance forward.
Adapt as you grow: What worked at the start might not be enough now—refine your tools and systems to stay on track.
Think long term: Whether it's business planning or engaging with politics, don’t just chase short-term wins, build for the future.
Highlights:
“Don’t try to polish it. Ship it.” — The power of consistent action over perfection.
Their New Zealand Manufacturer article made the front page—a big milestone.
A growing pipeline of high-impact guests and a call for more stories from the SME world.
This is a rare behind-the-scenes look at building something from scratch, and why the same principles apply to any small or medium business looking to grow. Whether you're reviewing your own business plan or thinking about how to better measure performance, there's something in here for you.
Tune in. Reflect. And keep moving forward with us.
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Connect with Rob and David on LinkedIn
Learn more about NZ Lean Academy and the mission Rob is on to make NZ the best place in the world to do business
Download David's NBR-featured report "Boosting Productivity in New Zealand SMEs" by joining the mailing list on the Altena Solutions website and start your journey to a more productive business today