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. 6d ago

    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

  2. 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/

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. Aug 3

    S01 E33 - Atin Patel and the Vinod Patel Group - Aug 1 2026

    summary   In this episode, Dave Dewar interviews Atin Patel, a director of Vinod Patel Group, to explore the company's diverse operations, regional expansion, and leadership philosophy. Discover how a family business maintains professionalism, innovation, and community engagement across Fiji and beyond.      keywords   Vinod Patel Group, Fiji business, regional expansion, family business, leadership, sustainability, retail, manufacturing, Pacific trade      key  topics   Vinod Patel Group's diversified business model Regional expansion into Papua New Guinea and Australia Family governance and professional management Sustainability and ESG initiatives Use of technology and AI in retail management Community engagement and corporate social responsibility      guest  name   Atin Patel     Titles   Inside Fiji's Vinod Patel Group: Family, Innovation, and Regional Growth How Vinod Patel Group Balances Family and Business Success      sound bites   "Discipline is the hallmark of our business" "Unity in the family is the key to our success" "We are proactive in sustainability and ESG initiatives"     Chapters   00:00 Introduction and Personal Background of Atin Patel 01:00 Overview of Vinod Patel Group and Its Legacy 02:09 Atin Patel's Journey from Ba to Fiji and New Zealand 04:03 Transition from Engineering to Business Leadership 07:01 Managing Multiple Business Verticals and Export Markets 09:23 Structure of Vinod Patel Group and Business Verticals 13:57 Evolving Consumer Tastes and Retail Innovation 16:26 Workforce and SKU Management in Fiji 18:49 Use of Technology and AI in Supply Chain 22:20 Family Governance and Business Culture 25:55 Family Unity and Leadership Philosophy 27:48 Sustainability and Environmental Policies 30:51 Pacific Trade and Cultural Nuances 33:01 Building Relationships and Business Entry Strategies 37:40 Engagement, Networking, and Community Involvement 40:21 Approach to Supplier Relationships and Market Entry 43:13 Future Outlook and Regional Opportunities 46:56 Closing Remarks and Final Insights    resources   Vinod Patel Group Official Website - https://vinodpatalgroup.com Pacific Business Conferences - https://pacificbusinessconferences.com LinkedIn - Atin Patel - https://linkedin.com/in/atinpatel

  6. Jul 25

    S01 E32 - The French Pacific with Agnes Baekelandt - July 25 2026

    Summary Join our Two Palagi as they explore the economic significance of the French Pacific, featuring insights from Agnes Baekelandt, Vice President of the French New Zealand Chamber of Commerce and CEO at Barkers of Geraldine. Discover the region's potential, cultural highlights, and key opportunities for business and collaboration; including discussion of the upcoming trade mission organized by the French New Zealand Chamber of Commerce. Discover the unique markets, investment potential, and regional dynamics that make this area a compelling focus for businesses and investors. Keywords French Pacific, New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Wallis and Fortuna, Agnes Baekalandt, French New Zealand Chamber of Commerce, Pacific economy, Vanuatu, agriculture, trade, cultural exchange Key  topics The economic significance of the French Pacific Agnes Baelalandt’s role and insights Trade and investment opportunities in the region Cultural and agricultural highlights of the Pacific The region's potential for growth and collaboration Takeaways The French Pacific's GDP exceeds Fiji's, highlighting its economic importance. Agnes Baekalandt emphasizes the region's untapped trade potential. Cultural festivals like Timaeva Nui showcase the vibrant Pacific heritage. Agriculture is a key sector with significant growth opportunities. The region's strategic position offers unique collaboration prospects. Guest  name Agnes Baekalandt Regenvanu Sound bites "The French Pacific's GDP exceeds Fiji's." "The region offers untapped trade potential." "Agriculture is a key growth sector." Chapters 00:07 Introduction and episode overview 04:52 Introduction to the French Pacific’s economic importance 07:25 Agnes Baekelandt and her journey 13:34 History and overview of French Pacific 16:36 Key sectors  23:48 Trade mission to French Polynesia and New Caledonia 25:02 Trade barriers in the French Pacific 30:01 Vanuatu connection 33:23 Barker's of Geraldine 36:50 The French Pacific and the wider region 39:40 Merci Agnes!  40:06 Outro, Sunrise and the week ahead Resources French New Zealand Chamber of Commerce - https://www.fnzcci.org.nz/  Trade Mission - https://www.fnzcci.org.nz/events/upcoming-events/event-detail/event/fnzcci-french-pacific-trade-mission-2026.html guest links Barkers of Geraldine - https://barkers.co.nz/  Papua New Guinea Investment Conference - https://pnginvestmentconference.com/

  7. Jul 20

    S01 E31 - The Constantinou Group in PNG - July 18 2026

    Summary In this episode, we explore the Pacific region's business landscape through an insightful conversation with George Constantinou of the Constantinou Group. Discover how a family business spans multiple markets and generations, and gain valuable regional insights. We explore their diverse portfolio, management strategies, regional opportunities, and community initiatives. Keywords Pacific region, family business, Papua New Guinea, regional investment, tourism, property development, business insights Key  topics The history and diversification of the Constantinou Group The role of family leadership across generations Investments in tourism and property in PNG and Samoa Challenges and opportunities in regional markets Insights into Pacific regional economic development Guest  name George Constantinou  Sound bites "The group has had a significant investment in Samoa for over ten years." "They describe themselves as a fully integrated property development business." "Their portfolio spans property, construction, and tourism across the region." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:16 Weekly updates and personal reflections 05:34 Introduction to George Constantinou and the Talanoa 06:09 IGeorge Constantinou and the Constantinou Group 32:50 Talanoa Summary and the Week Ahead Constantino Group Website - https://www.constantinou-group.com/ Airways Hotel - https://www.airways.com.pg/  Taumeasina Island Resort - https://www.taumeasinaislandresortsamoa.com/ Loloata Island Resort - https://www.loloataislandresort.com/ Lamana Hotel - https://lamanahotel.com.pg/  Heritage Park Hotel - https://heritageparkhotel.com.sb/ Texas Chicken - https://nz.texaschicken.com/ Sir Theo Foundation - https://www.sirtheofoundation.org/ Port Moresby Kiwi Club - https://www.facebook.com/POMKiwiClub/ PNG Investment Week - https://www.businessadvantagepng.com/events/png-investment-week-2026/ Business Advantage PNG - https://www.businessadvantagepng.com/ PNG Chiefs - https://nrlpng.co/

  8. Jul 12

    S01 E30 - John Stokes and Eat The Kiwi - July 11 2026

    Navigating Pacific Food Supply Chains with John Stokes Discover how John Stokes leverages his extensive experience in food distribution from New Zealand to the Pacific, creating sustainable and profitable regional supply chains. This episode delves into the intricacies of exporting Pacific-grown produce, overcoming logistical hurdles, and building local markets.Main Topics: The evolution of food distribution and supply chain models in the PacificOpportunities and challenges in exporting premium Pacific produceStrategies for leveraging local growers to add value and reduce reliance on importsThe importance of research, relationships, and understanding local market dynamicsFuture opportunities in regional exports, including premium products and niche markets In this episode: We celebrate Dave’s birthday along with the Matariki celebrationJohn Stokes shares his journey from the Auckland restaurant scene to founding "Eat the Kiwi" and expanding into Pacific marketsInsights on establishing supply chains for high-end products tailored for super yachts and resortsThe significance of local sourcing and supporting regional growersOvercoming freight and logistical challenges faced when exporting to New Zealand and beyondOpportunities for small premium food businesses to tap into Pacific marketsThe potential for Pacific producers to export back into New Zealand and Australia Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to John's background and Pacific food logistics 02:18 - John's transition from Auckland restaurants to Pacific markets 04:00 - Building relationships with Pacific growers and traders 07:15 - Establishing supply chains for super yachts and resorts in Vanuatu and Samoa 09:32 - Evolution of the supply model from New Zealand to local sourcing 11:45 - Overcoming export challenges and freight logistics 13:38 - The importance of market research and local partnerships 16:00 - Shifts in demand for higher quality food in Pacific resorts 17:55 - Opportunities for small businesses in Pacific markets 20:09 - Common mistakes in Pacific market entry and how to avoid them 31:16 - Export of Pacific produce (like limes) back to New Zealand 34:44 - Supporting local producers through branding and storytelling 37:42 - Future exploration and regional market potential 40:45 - Key advice for businesses entering the Pacific region 41:30 - Challenges and lessons learned from Pacific trading ventures 43:09 - Closing remarks and vision for the future of Pacific food trade Resources & Links: Eat the Kiwihttps://dynamicvanuatu.com/https://www.heilalavanilla.co.nz/https://www.whittakers.co.nzhttps://www.markwellfoods.co.nz/https://dsrupt.com/

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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
    38
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 GMurph and DDewar
  • Show Website
    Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod

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