Sustainably Ever After

Lilah McDonald
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Lilah McDonald is the host of NZBusiness magazine's podcast 'Sustainably Ever After', proudly brought to you by OfficeMax. In this podcast Lilah will be exploring the incredible world of sustainability and entrepreneurship. She'll be talking to guests who are making waves in the world of sustainability; those who have built businesses with a purpose, those striving to make their established companies greener, and those leading the charge for social and environmental change.

  1. 06/11/2025

    EP18 - Crafting Luxury with Purpose, The Deadly Ponies Story

    In this season finale, Lilah McDonald sits down with Liam Bowden, the creative force behind New Zealand's iconic leather accessories brand, Deadly Ponies. What began as a garage hobby in 2005 has evolved into an internationally recognised luxury label with sustainability at its core. Liam shares the brand's two-decade journey, from scavenging scrap leather and selling one-off pieces, to becoming net carbon zero certified and committing to being the world's most responsible handbag brand. Discover how Deadly Ponies is redefining ethical fashion through innovative design, waste reduction, low-impact freight, and circular recycling practices, all without compromising on style or quality. Key Takeaways: The origin story of Deadly Ponies — and the quirky inspiration behind the name. How Liam balances aesthetics and ethics in design. The challenges and opportunities of building a sustainable luxury brand. Why leather's longevity can support a more circular fashion model. Innovations in waste reduction, packaging, freight and supply chain ethics. Deadly Ponies' recycling programme — giving old bags new life. Real talk on greenwashing, and how the brand stays transparent and authentic. Liam's vision for the future of leather alternatives and responsible fashion. - If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to rate the podcast on Spotify or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That way more people can find us and learn about Sustainability! A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, Milford Foundation that is supporting education, youth and the environment to build a better tomorrow for all New Zealanders. Get in touch: Website – nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts Instagram – @sustainablyeverafterpodcast Find out more about Deadly Ponies Website – deadlyponies.com Facebook –@deadlyponies Instagram –@deadlyponies

    44 min

  2. 05/28/2025 · BONUS

    EP17 - Turning the Mic to Lilah McDonald

    In this special bonus episode, we turn the tables on Sustainably Ever After host Lilah McDonald, and hear her story as a young entrepreneur, changemaker, and advocate for a more sustainable Aotearoa. At just 10 years old, Lilah founded Water Us, a purpose-led toilet paper company funding public drinking fountains across New Zealand. Now a teen, she's already installed her first two fountains and is working toward a bold goal: 100 fountains nationwide. Lilah shares how a single moment during a childhood trip sparked her mission to reduce plastic waste and promote health in our communities. Key Takeaways: The story behind Water Us and the Public Water Project What it's like building a social enterprise while still at school Her reflections on hosting two seasons of Sustainably Ever After Key lessons from conversations with changemakers like Brianne West Advice for young people and businesses on making meaningful change Why taking small steps - and simply starting - matters more than perfection - If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to rate the podcast on Spotify or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That way more people can find us and learn about Sustainability! A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, Milford Foundation that is supporting education, youth and the environment to build a better tomorrow for all New Zealanders. Get in touch: Website – nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts Instagram – @sustainablyeverafterpodcast Find out more about Water Us Website – waterus.nz Facebook – @waterus.nz Instagram – @waterus.nz

    20 min

  3. 05/14/2025

    EP16 - Bryce Marsden on Sustainable Impact Through Education, Youth and Environment

    In this episode of Sustainably Ever After, Lilah McDonald sits down with Bryce Marsden, Chief Executive of the Milford Foundation, to explore how long-term thinking and focused philanthropy can create real change across youth, education, and the environment in Aotearoa New Zealand. With over a decade of leadership experience at Milford Asset Management, Bryce brings a unique blend of business acumen and deep personal commitment to the Foundation's mission. He shares what it was like to build the Milford Foundation from the ground up, why meaningful change takes generational thinking, and how a humble, low-profile approach can often yield the most authentic results. It's a thoughtful conversation about backing people, not just projects - and why the next generation is central to shaping a more sustainable, equitable future. Key Takeaways: Bryce's journey from COO to leading a purpose-driven charitable foundation. How the Milford Foundation supports 46+ university scholarships and programmes like MoneyTime and What's Up to empower young Kiwis. Why the Puhinui Stream Regeneration Project is a game-changer for South Auckland's urban biodiversity and community wellbeing. The importance of multi-year funding, responsible investing, and going beyond financial contributions to help charities scale their impact. Practical advice for businesses that want to make a difference — from choosing causes aligned with your values to planning a thoughtful exit strategy. Why humility, long-term commitment, and collaboration are key to authentic impact — and how every small step matters. - If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to rate the podcast on Spotify or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That way more people can find us and learn about Sustainability! A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, Milford Foundation that is supporting education, youth and the environment to build a better tomorrow for all New Zealanders. Get in touch: Website – nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts Instagram – @sustainablyeverafterpodcast Find out more about Milford Foundation Website – milfordfoundation.co.nz Facebook – @milfordfoundation Instagram – @milfordfoundation LinkedIn – @Milford Foundation

    35 min

  4. 04/30/2025

    EP15 - Brianne West Is Back to Change the World Again

    In this powerhouse episode, Lilah McDonald sits down with Brianne West, celebrated Founder of Ethique and now the brains behind Incrediballs, a first-of-its-kind waste-free beverage company launching in 2025. Brianne shares the unvarnished truth about start-up life, the challenges of scaling a purpose-led brand, and why building businesses that solve problems - not just make money - is the key to creating real change. From handcrafting shampoo bars in her kitchen to turning Ethique into a $100M global success that saved over 41 million plastic bottles from landfill, Brianne reflects on the risks, breakthroughs, and learnings that have shaped her journey. She also opens up about Incrediballs, her next big mission to tackle the plastic crisis in the drinks industry with home-compostable, dissolvable drink tablets. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, impact-driven leader, or just curious about what it takes to change the world (twice), this episode is packed with wisdom, honesty, and inspiration. Key Takeaways: How Brianne's early science passion and entrepreneurial spirit shaped her path. The story behind Ethique's rise and its legacy after Brianne's exit. Why Incrediballs could disrupt the global beverage industry - and how it works. Brianne's radically honest take on start-up burnout, hustle culture, and boundaries. The viral moments and media spikes that fuelled Ethique's growth. Her step-by-step approach to sustainable supply chains. The importance of values-led leadership, crowdfunding, and community building. Why more competitors in sustainable spaces are a good thing. - If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to rate the podcast on Spotify or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That way more people can find us and learn about Sustainability! A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, Milford Foundation that is supporting education, youth and the environment to build a better tomorrow for all New Zealanders. Get in touch: Website – nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts Instagram – @sustainablyeverafterpodcast Find out more about Incrediballs: Website – incrediballs.com Instagram – @incrediballsdrinks

    1h 6m

  5. 04/16/2025

    EP14 - Redefining Fashion with Aidan Bartlett of Designer Wardrobe

    In this episode of Sustainably Ever After, host Lilah McDonald chats with Aidan Bartlett, CEO of Designer Wardrobe – a fashion resale and rental platform that's redefining how New Zealanders interact with clothing. From its humble beginnings as a Facebook group to a thriving online marketplace and rental service, Designer Wardrobe has become a standout player in New Zealand's sustainable fashion movement. Aidan shares the evolution of the platform, the power of trust within a peer-to-peer community, and the conscious choices behind scaling a business with sustainability at its core. This episode offers valuable insights not only for fashion entrepreneurs but for any business owner looking to align profit with purpose. Key Takeaways: The backstory of Designer Wardrobe: How a simple community idea evolved into a national e-commerce platform for fashion resale and rental. Why a circular economy model is crucial for the future of fashion: How Designer Wardrobe empowers users to make more sustainable choices. The power of people: The importance of community trust, brand integrity, and customer experience in growing a peer-driven business. Start-up growth: How Aidan approaches leadership and decision-making in a fast-scaling, mission-led start-up. Fashion-froward mentality: The ways Designer Wardrobe reduces fashion waste and promotes affordability while staying true to modern style and convenience. Online marketplace: The digital innovation and operational design behind making fashion resale and rental seamless and scalable. Plus: Real-world advice for other purpose-led businesses on balancing commercial growth with environmental and social impact. - If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to rate the podcast on Spotify or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That way more people can find us and learn about Sustainability! A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, Milford Foundation that is supporting education, youth and the environment to build a better tomorrow for all New Zealanders. Get in touch: Website – nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts Instagram – @sustainablyeverafterpodcast Find out more about Designer Wardrobe: Website – designerwardrobe.co.nz Facebook – @designerwardrobenz Instagram – @designer.wardrobe.marketplace TikTok – @designer.wardrobe.mp

    40 min

  6. 04/02/2025

    EP13 - Nick Sautner on Eden Park's Green Game Plan

    In this episode of Sustainably Ever After, host Lilah McDonald sits down with Nick Sautner, CEO of Eden Park, to discuss the stadium's innovative approach to sustainability. As New Zealand's most iconic sports venue, Eden Park is not just a stage for unforgettable sporting moments - it's also leading the way in environmental and community-focused initiatives. Nick shares insights into how Eden Park is reducing its carbon footprint, implementing sustainable practices, and using its platform to create a lasting positive impact. From renewable energy initiatives to waste reduction strategies, he delves into how sports venues can be catalysts for change. He also highlights the importance of community engagement and how Eden Park is working with local businesses and organisations to foster sustainability beyond the stadium walls. Key Takeaways: How Eden Park integrates sustainability into its operations: Nick discusses the stadium's approach to embedding sustainability into everyday activities, from energy efficiency to eco-friendly procurement practices. The role of large venues in driving environmental change: As a high-profile venue, Eden Park sets an example for other sports and entertainment spaces, showing how large-scale events can operate with minimal environmental impact. Innovative initiatives that are reducing waste and energy consumption: From composting food waste to utilising solar energy, Nick shares the specific programs Eden Park has introduced to lessen its carbon footprint. The power of partnerships in advancing sustainable goals: Collaboration with local businesses, suppliers, and environmental organisations has been key to implementing effective sustainability measures at Eden Park. The future of sustainability in the events and sports industry: Nick provides insights into emerging trends and technologies that will shape the future of sustainable event management, ensuring long-term positive environmental impact. - If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to rate the podcast on Spotify or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That way more people can find us and learn about Sustainability! A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, Milford Foundation that is supporting education, youth and the environment to build a better tomorrow for all New Zealanders. Get in touch: Website – nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts Instagram – @sustainablyeverafterpodcast Find out more about Eden Park's sustainability journey: Website – edenpark.co.nz Facebook – @edenparknz Instagram – @edenparknz LinkedIn – @edenparknz

    30 min

  7. 03/19/2025

    EP12 - Tackling food waste with Michal Garvey, Founder of Foodprint

    In this episode of Sustainably Ever After, host Lilah McDonald speaks with Michal Garvey, Founder of Foodprint, a food rescue app helping cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets reduce food waste by selling surplus food at a discount. Michal shares her journey from witnessing food waste firsthand while working at a hotel in Colorado, to launching a star-tup that is actively fighting food waste across New Zealand. She shares the challenges of building a tech-based sustainability business, the role of food waste in climate change, and how small changes in consumer and business behaviour can have a big impact. Key Takeaways: The environmental cost of food waste: Why food that ends up in landfill doesn't simply biodegrade but instead contributes significantly to climate change. How Foodprint works: Discover how the app connects eateries with surplus food to consumers looking for great deals while helping the planet. Tech for good: Michal's journey into the world of food technology, how she built a digital solution without a tech background, and the importance of making sustainability easy for consumers. Beyond the bin: Practical steps for businesses and individuals to reduce food waste before it happens and ensure that unavoidable waste is properly handled. The future of food rescue: Exciting trends in food waste innovation, including up-cycling, waste reduction policies, and the role of technology in making the food industry more sustainable. - If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to rate the podcast on Spotify or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That way more people can find us and learn about Sustainability! A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, Milford Foundation that is supporting education, youth and the environment to build a better tomorrow for all New Zealanders. Get in touch: Website – nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts Instagram – @sustainablyeverafterpodcast Find out more about Footprint: Website – foodprint.app Facebook – @FoodprintNZ Instagram – @foodprintnz

    49 min

  8. 03/05/2025

    EP11 - Transforming Plastic Waste into Sustainable Building Materials with Rui Peng

    Welcome back to Sustainably Ever After, in this episode, host Lilah McDonald speaks with Rui Peng, co-founder and Chief Executive of Critical., a clean-tech company turning plastic waste into durable construction panels called Cleanstone. Rui co-founded Critical. with the goal of building an enduring company that exists to manaaki (care for) people and land. He shares his inspiring journey from studying architecture to creating an innovative Māori-owned company that tackles plastic waste and carbon emissions in the construction industry. Key Takeaways: The shocking reality of plastic waste in New Zealand and how Critical. is repurposing it. Rui's journey from an immigrant upbringing to becoming a sustainability entrepreneur. The devastating tornado that nearly destroyed his business – and how he rebuilt. The role of architecture and design in driving sustainable change. How the Critical. Cleanstone panels are shaping the construction industry. The future of sustainable building materials and what needs to change in society. - If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to rate the podcast on Spotify or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That way more people can find us and learn about Sustainability! A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, Milford Foundation that is supporting education, youth and the environment to build a better tomorrow for all New Zealanders. Get in touch: Website - nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts Instagram - @sustainablyeverafterpodcast Find out more about Critical.: Website – criticaldesign.nz Facebook – @Criticalnz Instagram – @bluntumbrellas LinkedIn – Critical.

    39 min
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About

Lilah McDonald is the host of NZBusiness magazine's podcast 'Sustainably Ever After', proudly brought to you by OfficeMax. In this podcast Lilah will be exploring the incredible world of sustainability and entrepreneurship. She'll be talking to guests who are making waves in the world of sustainability; those who have built businesses with a purpose, those striving to make their established companies greener, and those leading the charge for social and environmental change.

Information

  • Creator
    Lilah McDonald
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    Sustainably Ever After