Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod

GMurph and DDewar
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The Pacific is one of the most commercially underestimated places on the planet. Its business stories rarely get told. That's what we're here for. Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod is a weekly business podcast hosted by Dave Dewar, based in Rarotonga Cook Islands (previously in Fiji), and Glen Murphy, based in Auckland New Zealand. Between them they've spent years working across the Pacific: building businesses, opening markets, and getting to know the people, trends and organisations that make this region tick. Now they've got a microphone and a lot of questions. Each week Dave and Glen dig into the business stories, news, and trends shaping the Pacific. Sometimes a conversation with an operator or investor with skin in the game; sometimes unravelling and explaining stories and trends that deserve more commercial attention than it's getting. Always, it means thirty minutes of straight talk with no development-sector framing. The show is made for businesspeople, investors, and professionals with Pacific interests - whether from Australia, New Zealand or across the region, but anyone curious about what's actually happening commercially across the Pacific will find plenty to take away. The listener who gets the most out of it is someone who knows the Pacific is worth paying attention to, and wants intelligence they can act on rather than headlines they've already seen. Pisinisi, by the way, is the Samoan and Tongan word for "business". Palagi refers to people of European descent in several Pacific cultures. Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod: the name says exactly what it is. New episodes drop weekly. Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, or get in touch at two.palagi@gmail.com.

  1. 5d ago

    S01 E41 - Zane Yoshida and FijiKava - Sept 26 2026

    The conversation delves into the world of Kava, exploring its preparation, varieties, and the journey of Zane Yoshida in the Kava industry. Zane leads the ASX listed Calmer Company that markets the FijiKava brand. We also discuss the invention of instant Kava and its significance in the Western market. The conversation delves into the cultural and regional consumption of Kava, exploring its historical significance and ceremonial aspects. It also touches on the changing dynamics of Kava consumption, including the inclusion of women and the emergence of Kava bars. Additionally, the health properties of Kava and its impact on the Pacific region's economy are discussed. Takeaways Kava PreparationKava Varieties Cultural Consumption of KavaHealth Properties of Kava Chapters 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi05:58 Introduction to Zane Yoshida and FijiKava13:18 Zane's Journey23:01 Challenges of Running a Public Company24:26 Market Expansion and Consumer Demographics28:03 Kava Varieties and Cultivation34:06 Kava Across Cultures37:00 Health Benefits and Safety of Kava Consumption40:02 The Future of Kava in Global Markets43:24 Intellectual Property and Kava's Cultural Heritage47:05 Building Relationships Through Kava Traditions50:00 Talanoa Summary53:49 Tax Officers' Meeting56:47 Media Meet in Savu Savu57:41 Close For The WeekResources Contact Two Palagi - talanoa@twopalagi.com The Calmer Company - https://thecalmerco.com/ FijiKava - https://fijikava.com.au/

  2. Sep 21

    S01 E40 - Lukbo Food Group - Sept 19 2026

    The conversation with owners, Qiuchee and Qiujing Wong, explores the journey of Lukbo, a business specializing in the importation and wholesaling of Pacific Island and Asian food. It delves into the challenges of sourcing, processing, and distributing products from the Pacific region to New Zealand, as well as the family history and legacy of the business. The conversation covers topics such as the impact of automation on quality and scalability, end-to-end processing capability, target consumer market, advertising strategies, sourcing dynamics, and staff retention. Qiuchee and Qiujing also discuss the challenges and opportunities for Pacific Island exporters in the New Zealand and Australian markets. Takeaways Family legacy and community serviceChallenges of sourcing and processingInvestment in processing capabilities Automation enhances quality and scalabilityUnderstanding the target consumer market is crucial for growth Chapters 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi 03:59 Introduction to the Lukbo Business06:08 The Wong Family Legacy in Food Processing10:31 Challenges of Sourcing and Supply Chain12:47 Investment in Processing Capabilities14:46 Building Relationships with Farmers17:30 The Future of Lukbo21:19 Automation and Scalability 22:09 Understanding the Target Consumer26:56 Supply Challanges32:12 Advice for Pacific Island Exporters33:46 Talanoa Summary37:26 Maritime Safety and Recent Tragedy38:31 US Investment Announcement40:13 Green Climate Fund41:32 Aviation Developments42:54 Pacific Media Summit44:19 Arson and Chocolate in Bougaineville45:50 Two Palagi Sign Out Resources Contact Two Palagi - talanoa@twopalagi.com Lukbo Food Group - https://lukbo.co.nz

  3. Sep 14

    S01 E39 - Glynis Miller and Pacific Trade & Invest - Sept 12 2026

    The conversation introduces Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) and Glynis Miller, the Trade Commissioner for PTI based in Auckland. Glynis shares her journey to PTI, highlighting the organization's role as a regional trade and investment promotion agency. The discussion explores PTI's impact on trade and investment in the Pacific, emphasizing its influence on changing the narrative for Pacific exporters and influencing trade policies. The conversation covers the desire for information and connection in the Pacific, insights from the Pacific Island Export Survey, challenges with investment and finance in the Pacific, Pacific exporters going global, freight and logistics challenges for Pacific exporters, and understanding the New Zealand market. Key takeaways include the increasing global reach of Pacific exporters and the ongoing challenges around freight and logistics for Pacific exporters. Takeaways Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) supports exporters and businesses in the Pacific regionPTI's unique role as a regional trade and investment promotion agencyInfluence of PTI on changing the narrative for Pacific exporters and influencing trade policies Pacific exporters are increasingly going globalChallenges around freight and logistics for Pacific exporters Chapters 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi07:00 Introduction to Glynis Miller11:30 Pacific Trade and Invest14:58 PTI's Operations and Initiatives19:36 New Zealand Market Dynamics22:46 Recent Trade Mission to Samoa23:14 Insights from the Pacific Islands Export Survey25:04 Investment Challenges in the Pacific31:12 Talanoa Conclusion32:01 Ocean of Flavours Event35:04 Talanoa Takeouts39:08 Developments in the Solomon Islands41:16 Papua LNG Pending Announcement42:43 Fiji Airways Record and Aviation Announcements45:01 Upcoming Events46:35 Listener Feedback and Two Palagi Outro Resources Two Palagi - talanoa@twopalagi.com Pacific Trade and Invest - https://pacifictradeinvest.com/ Ocean of Flavours - https://www.aut.ac.nz/events/ocean-of-flavours Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters - https://samesamoa.ws/

  4. Sep 7

    S01 E38 - Tony Fautua and ADRA - Sept 5 2026

    The conversation covers Tony Fautua's diplomatic career, transition to the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), and the role of the Adventist Church in the Pacific. It also explores the evolution and influence of the Adventist Church, ADRA's mission and global network, and its collaboration with the Adventist Church. It also explores ADRTA's connection to the Sanitarium business, the impact of business success on ADRA's funding and the organization's relationship with businesses in the region. Takeaways Diplomatic career and humanitarian workRole of the Adventist Church in the Pacific ADRA's work in the PacificThe impact of business success on ADRA's funding Chapters 00:06 Introduction to Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod 03:29 Introduction to Tony Fautua07:52 Tony's Diplomatic Career and Experiences11:57 Overview of ADRA17:49 ADRA in the Pacific20:16 The Relationship Between ADRA and Sanitarium22:01 Challenges and Adaptations Post-COVID25:28 Importance of Local Engagement30:26 Community Impact31:19 Talanoa Summary37:21 Pacific Islands Forum Outcomes42:55 Penrhyn Port Collaboration43:57 Australia's Investment in Regional Security47:27 The Kava Declaration50:19 Two Palagi Outro Resources Two Palagi - talanoa@twopalagi.com ADRA - https://adra.org.nz/ Sanitarium - https://www.sanitarium.com/au

  5. Aug 29

    S01 E37 - The Pacific Islands Forum 2026 - Aug 29 2026

    Glen and Dave discuss the Pacific business landscape, community involvement, and the significance of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in driving economic activity and decision-making in the region. They explore the structure and decision-making process of the PIF, emphasizing the importance of consensus and actionable outcomes. The Troika and its relevance for New Zealand's upcoming hosting of the PIF are also highlighted. The conversation then explores key business topics for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) discussions, focusing on energy, infrastructure, investment, tourism, aviation, trade, digital connectivity, and cybersecurity. The theme of 'Building Economies, Life, Action, Unity' is emphasized, reflecting the forum's focus. Additionally, the conversation addresses trade policy and business engagement within the PIF. Takeaways The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) is a consensus-based organization that drives actionable outcomes and economic activity in the region. Key business topics for PIF discussionsRenewable energy transition and economic impactTrade policy and business engagement Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pacific Business00:55 Community and Sports in the Pacific02:14 Podcasting and Music Industry03:36 Business Podcasting in the Pacific04:49 Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Explained07:01 PIF Attendees and Discussions12:38 PIF Decision Making and Machinery21:20 Consensus and Action in PIF25:21 The Troika and its Relevance27:30 Bikotawa Declaration and Regional Assistance29:51 Key Business Topics for PIF Discussions30:45 Energy Crisis and Regionalized Fuel Procurement33:07 Infrastructure and ICT Connectivity34:03 Renewable Energy Transition and Economic Impact36:04 Collaborative Pooling Opportunities and Pacific Resilience Facility39:23 Building Economies, Life, Action, Unity43:35 Trade Policy and Business Engagement Resources The Pacific Islands Forum - https://forumsec.org/pacific-islands-forum Contact talanoa@twopalagi.com

  6. Aug 24

    S01 E36 - Stephen Plowman and Rarotonga Brewery - Aug 22 2026

    The conversation with Stephen Plowman, the captain of beer, covers his journey into the beer brewing industry, the establishment of Hallertau Brewery, the evolution of the brewing industry in New Zealand, and his partnership in the Rarotonga brewery. Stephen's focus on quality, sustainability, and the local beer experience is evident throughout the discussion. The conversation with Stephen Plowman covers the success and growth of the Rarotonga Brewery, including the production of non-alcoholic ginger beer and fruit ciders. It also explores the impact of tourism on the brewery's demand and the challenges of doing business in Rarotonga compared to New Zealand. Additionally, it delves into the supply chain challenges and the future plans for the brewery. Takeaways Craft brewing has evolved over the years, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and the local beer experience.Stephen's approach to brewing and business emphasizes the importance of community, quality, and sustainability. Tourism has significantly impacted the demand for the brewery's products, especially with the influx of Australian tourists.The challenges of doing business in Rarotonga are unique and require creative solutions to overcome supply chain disadvantages. Chapters 00:07 Two Palagi Intro04:50 Introduction to Craft Brewing and Beer Culture 06:23 Stephen Plowman's Journey into Brewing07:59 Evolution of the Craft Beer Industry09:48 Business Philosophy: Restaurant vs Brewery10:58 Involvement in the Rarotonga Brewery13:22 Relocation and Investment in Rarotonga Brewery14:12 Quality and Sustainability in Brewing15:49 Growth and Demand in Local Beer17:07 Market Performance and Consumer Preferences18:18 Local Innovations in Brewing20:57 Navigating Tourism and Demand22:06 Business Lessons from Two Markets24:56 Overcoming Supply Chain Challenges27:02 Future Aspirations and Customer Service28:48 Talanoa Summary35:03 Events and the Week Ahead40:06 Australia Fiji Business Forum42:42 Pacific Island Investment Forum45:35 Two Palagi Outro New Contact Email For Two Palagi talanoa@twopalagi.com Resources Hallertau Brewery and Biergarten - https://hallertau.co.nz/ Rarotonga Brewery - https://rarotongabrewery.com/ Counterpoint Media Group - https://counterpoint.digital/ Australia Fiji Business Forum - https://apibc.org.au/events/ PNG Solomon Islands Investment Conference - https://solomons.gov.sb/pm-wale-calls-for-melanesian-growth-corridor-at-inaugural-png-solomon-islands-investment-conference/ Pacific Islands Investment Forum - https://www.pacificislandsinvestmentforum.com/

  7. Aug 17

    S01 E35 - Chandan Ohri, DUCO Consulting and Outsource Fiji - Aug 15 2026

    The conversation delves into the rise of the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector in the Pacific, particularly in Fiji, and its impact on the local economy. It also explores the journey of DUCO Consultancy, the growth of the BPO market in Fiji, talent retention and development, and Fiji's value proposition in the BPO sector. The conversation covers the topics of 24/7 support for global clients, the competitive advantage of Fiji, expansion into Papua New Guinea, business in Papua New Guinea, and future plans for Duco Consultancy. Takeaways Digital revolution in the PacificGrowth of business process outsourcing (BPO) sector in Fiji 24/7 SupportGlobal Strategy Chapters 00:00 The Rise of BPO in the Pacific02:08 DUCO Consultancy: A Journey of Growth06:16 Fiji: A Thriving BPO Market16:37 BPO Sector's Impact on Fiji's Economy21:21 Talent Retention and Development in BPO25:27 Fiji's Value Proposition in BPO25:35 24/7 Support for Global Clients29:10 Competitive Advantage of Fiji31:50 Expansion into Papua New Guinea35:24 Business in Papua New Guinea42:52 Future Plans for Duco Consultancy Resources DUCO Consulting: https://www.ducoconsultancy.com/ NCIT Conference: https://ncit.fnu.ac.fj/ Outsource Fiji: https://outsourcefiji.com/ Two Palagi: two.palagi@gmail.com

  8. Aug 10

    S01 E34 - Matt Freeman and the Oceania Renewable Power Conference - Aug 8 2026

    Summary In this episode, Dave and Glen Talanoa with Matt Freeman of Freeman Media to discuss the upcoming Oceania Renewable Power Summit, focusing on renewable energy developments in the Pacific region, challenges, opportunities, and the role of international investment. Keywords renewable energy, Pacific region, Oceania Renewable Power Summit, energy transition, solar, wind, batteries, energy investment, Fiji, Australia, New Zealand Key topics Energy transition in the Pacific region Role of international investment and funding Challenges in renewable energy deployment in island nations The significance of the Oceania Renewable Power Summit Case studies including the Chatham Islands and Fiji Market mechanisms and regulatory frameworks in energy development Sound bites "Renewables are the future of Pacific energy." "Geopolitical events are accelerating energy transition." "Cost and access to finance are the biggest hurdles." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pacific energy landscape and the summit 02:16 Introduction to Matt Freeman and Freeman Media 03:10 Background of Freeman Media and the origins of the summit 05:03 Focus on renewable energy trends in New Zealand and Australia 08:07 Impact of geopolitical events on energy discussions 10:46 Cost and financing challenges in Pacific renewable projects 13:37 Evolving conversations and key themes for the summit 20:09 Key speakers and expected attendees at the summit 24:17 Case study: The Chatham Islands' transition to renewable energy 36:41 Details about the summit location and logistics 37:49 Opportunities for businesses and stakeholders in the Pacific energy sector 40:50 Closing remarks and the importance of regional collaboration Resources Two Palagi email: two.palagi@gmail.com Freeman Media: https://www.freemanmedia.co.nz/ Oceania Renewable Power Conference: https://www.freemanmedia.co.nz/event/853392/oceania-renewable-power-summit

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About

The Pacific is one of the most commercially underestimated places on the planet. Its business stories rarely get told. That's what we're here for. Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod is a weekly business podcast hosted by Dave Dewar, based in Rarotonga Cook Islands (previously in Fiji), and Glen Murphy, based in Auckland New Zealand. Between them they've spent years working across the Pacific: building businesses, opening markets, and getting to know the people, trends and organisations that make this region tick. Now they've got a microphone and a lot of questions. Each week Dave and Glen dig into the business stories, news, and trends shaping the Pacific. Sometimes a conversation with an operator or investor with skin in the game; sometimes unravelling and explaining stories and trends that deserve more commercial attention than it's getting. Always, it means thirty minutes of straight talk with no development-sector framing. The show is made for businesspeople, investors, and professionals with Pacific interests - whether from Australia, New Zealand or across the region, but anyone curious about what's actually happening commercially across the Pacific will find plenty to take away. The listener who gets the most out of it is someone who knows the Pacific is worth paying attention to, and wants intelligence they can act on rather than headlines they've already seen. Pisinisi, by the way, is the Samoan and Tongan word for "business". Palagi refers to people of European descent in several Pacific cultures. Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod: the name says exactly what it is. New episodes drop weekly. Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, or get in touch at two.palagi@gmail.com.

Information

  • Creator
    GMurph and DDewar
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 GMurph and DDewar
  • Show Website
    Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod