Beyond the Transaction: Skyzer's the Limit

Season 1 of Beyond the Transaction comes to a close! In this special finale episode, we revisit some of the incredible stories and insightful lessons shared by our amazing guests. As we prepare for a short hiatus, we explore some thought-provoking questions and answers that highlight the key themes of our podcast series. From branding and marketing to creating unforgettable customer experiences, this episode is a heartfelt thank you to our loyal listeners and a promise of more exciting content to come. We highlight the unwavering spirit of entrepreneurship, delve into the secrets of building a thriving online presence, and reflect on key takeaways from conversations with Karolina Konarkowska of Richards Partners (Episode 1), Amber Basalaj of Basalaj Beauty (Episode 10), and Jess Owen of Just Jess Boujee Bakery (Episode 7). Join us as we celebrate the successes, embrace the challenges, and ponder thought-provoking questions that propel small businesses forward. We'll be back soon with even more stories and insights from the world of entrepreneurship and business. Until then, enjoy this final episode of Season 1, get connected with Skyzer on all social platforms, and stay tuned for our return!

Join us for an insightful conversation with Angela Gill from Payments NZ as we explore how you can actively shape the future of payments. Discover the impact of initiatives like open banking, fostering innovation, and collaboration within the payments ecosystem. Learn how small businesses can play a crucial role in driving change and ensuring a seamless payments experience for all. Keep up with Payments NZ's work, get the latest updates, and find out how you can join the industry conversation at paymentsnz.co.nz - or connect with Payments NZ on LinkedIn. And don't forget to mark your calendars for Aotearoa New Zealand's biennial payments conference, The Point 2024, in Auckland on 19 and 20 November!  www.paymentsnz.co.nz  www.linkedin.com/company/payments-nz-ltd

Entrepreneurship, empowerment, and the power of human connection - an episode you don’t want to miss.  Join us as we chat with Amber Basalaj and learn about her journey in creating her cosmetic brand, Basalaj Beauty. Amber offers insights into the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned in building a brand from the ground up. From failing at social media and investing in billboards early on, to developing high-quality products and an unapologetic brand without compromising her vision or passion. Throughout Amber’s journey she recounts the importance of authenticity, resilience, and creativity showcasing how there can be diverse pathways to success.  We thrive in highlighting the personal stories and strategies of individuals who have ventured beyond conventional boundaries to make their passion a reality.  This conversation embodies the overarching theme of Beyond the Transaction series - focusing on delving deeper into the human stories behind entrepreneurs and business ventures right here in Aotearoa. Be sure to follow Basalaj Beauty and its meteoric rise in the beauty industry, not only in New Zealand but expanding globally with its paramount partnership with Sephora beginning 17th April 2024.  @basalajbeauty @sephoranz @breastcancercure We delve into the intricacies of infusing personal stories and values into branding, emphasising authenticity in marketing and the power of genuine connections. Through partnerships, global reach, and innovative marketing strategies, Amber demonstrates the transformative potential of resilience, creativity, and authenticity in business growth. From building partnerships with global giants like Sephora to championing local businesses in New Zealand, Amber's journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for entrepreneurs seeking to make their mark in the beauty industry and beyond.

Pat McCammon, a seasoned navigator in the world of payments, discusses the nuances of navigating the dynamic terrain of payments and explores the challenges and opportunities that small to medium businesses face. He provides insights into consumer perspectives on payments and breaks down different categories of payment methods. Pat also touches on compliance and regulations in the payments industry, emphasising the importance of protecting consumers while allowing for innovation. He advises business owners to carefully choose their payment providers, considering factors such as transparency, reliability, and customer experience. Finally, Pat highlights upcoming innovations in digital payments and encourages retailers to stay ahead by understanding consumer demands and adopting new technologies. In this episode, Pat shares three key recommendations for choosing the right payment provider: Transparency The importance of transparency reveals itself when it comes to fees associated with different forms of acceptance, such as "12 months free" schemes and understanding their offering of merchant services fees. He advises business owners to thoroughly question and understand these fees from their potential provider. If the intended provider is cagey or purposefully inconspicuous, might not be the right fit for your business. Reliability Another crucial factor is the reliability of the payment provider. Not only is their offering (Network and Hardware) reliable, but moreover when things go wrong, how is their responsiveness. Pat suggests selecting a provider with a strong service level agreement (SLA) to ensure uninterrupted transactions and minimal downtime. Customer Journey Enhancement Lastly, Pat highlights the significance of enhancing the customer journey. He suggests that successful retailers choose providers who offer terminals designed to streamline the checkout process and improve overall customer experience. Pat's got the secrets to deciphering fees, avoiding surcharging misunderstandings, and why those "free" eftpos terminals might not be so liberating after all. So, join us, settle in, and get ready to navigate the payments industry confidently. For more information about surcharging, merchant services fees, costs and other considerations, check out our articles below: https://www.skyzer.co.nz/getting-started-with-eftpos-costs-and-considerations/ https://www.skyzer.co.nz/merchantnumber/ https://www.skyzer.co.nz/surcharges/ https://www.skyzer.co.nz/small-business-guide/ https://www.skyzer.co.nz/five-tips-to-create-a-smooth-customer-experience/ https://www.skyzer.co.nz/warranty/

Join on another episode featuring a conversation with the multi-talented ⁠Josh Edmonds⁠. This episode explores the dynamic intersection of passion, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Discover how Josh's journey from photography to music production to owning his own studio (⁠Ambian Studios⁠) mirrors the themes we often explore on Beyond the Transaction, namely of embracing unexpected turns and adaptability. The episode delves into the delicate balance between passion and business, a topic central to many entrepreneurial ventures. Josh reflects on the evolution of his relationship with music, paralleling the theme of how passions transform over time. His insights provide a unique perspective on maintaining the spark that initially fueled the entrepreneurial flame. As the conversation unfolds, his experiences emphasise the importance of a supportive network, taking calculated risks, and the transformative power of commitment. These insights echo the themes we often explore on Beyond the Transaction, embodying the human side of entrepreneurship. In a thought-provoking conclusion, the episode looks beyond mere transactions to explore the human experiences and personal growth that entrepreneurship entails. Join for a conversation that not only touches on the intricacies of the music industry but also resonates deeply with Beyond the Transaction's exploration of passion, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit.

We continue to unravel the narratives behind successful businesses. In this candid conversation, Jess Owen, the dynamic force behind Just Jess Boujee Bakery, joins us to share her compelling trajectory from turning her small home kitchen to a successful bakery evolving into its pink presence with storefronts and pop-ups. We delve into the challenges, unique branding choices, and the intersection of creativity and business in this episode. Emphasising that success in business goes beyond mere transactions—it involves creativity, brand building, community engagement, and the ability to navigate challenges. Jess kicks off by narrating her entrepreneurial genesis, revealing the nerve-wracking yet liberating decision to leave her sales job and channel her savings into baking. The conversation touches on the early challenges and the art of unveiling a business idea to the world. Social media emerges as a powerful ally as Jess discusses the pivotal role it played in shaping her brand. From Instagram stories to engaging content, discover the strategic elements that fueled the growth of Just Jess Boujee Bakery. We delve into the hurdles faced by Jess, exploring the unexpected twists in her entrepreneurial journey. We underscore the significance of prioritising mental well-being and the lessons learned from unforeseen challenges. As we peer into the future, Jess unravels her approach to business decisions, touching on the delicate balance between creativity, brand identity, and functionality. Uncover Jess's philosophy on the delicate dance between beauty and functionality. Learn about her fluid time management approach and the essence of building meaningful relationships with the audience. Jess leaves us with reflections on the significance of caring about details in business, building relationships with online followers, and an invitation to join the Just Jess Boujee Bakery community. Jess's story is more than a business journey; it's an exploration of creativity, resilience, and the art of turning dreams into reality. Read more about the conversation on Skyzer's website.

In this episode we chat with Adam Bryce, a seasoned creative director and consultant, shedding light on his diverse global career. Adam reflects on his journey, shares details about his friendship with Virgil Abloh, and chats about how local New Zealand businesses can use creativity to drive commercial success. As he reflects on his creative journey, we discuss how each project contributes to his creative evolution and emphasises the importance of knowledge and problem-solving.   This episode delves into Adam's most recent local venture, "New Projects - Everyday Foundations," where we explore the complexities, considerations, and the power of branding your business. Adam's insights highlight the practical aspects of navigating a new business venture, from tackling logistical issues to recognising the interplay between global trends and local authenticity.   Join us for a candid conversation that goes beyond the transaction, offering valuable perspectives on the beauty and function that underpin successful creative ventures.

Are your colours accurately representing the essence of your brand? In this episode, we touch upon colour theory and its profound impact on customer experience. We cover the basics in the psychology of colours, exploring the influence of hues like pink, purple, white, blue, teal, yellow, and red have on branding, design, and the overall customer experience.   From tranquility to luxury to clean aesthetic, we discuss how some brands meticulously design their physical spaces. Whether it's the warm hues in Whittakers’ packaging, or the earthy, natural ambiance of an Icebreaker store - learn how interior design contributes to the overall brand experience.   Give a listen, and explore an entry level overview of colour theory and interior design. Discover how the smallest details can evoke emotions, shape your brand's narrative and leave an indelible mark on your customers.

We're set out on debunking the myth that successful branding requires deep pockets. Join us as we take a quick look at a few major brands that have mastered the art of branding and how local kiwi businesses can incorporate these learnings without breaking the bank. Branding on a Budget how major players strategically wield colours and invest in customer experiences, proving that impactful branding is about thoughtful decisions, not just deep pockets. We'll unveil the cost-effective choices these brands made to create a lasting imprint on their audience. Explore case studies from global giants (Nike and Allbirds) to a local gem (Little and Friday), and learn how businesses of all sizes can harness the power of branding. We showcase how even the seemingly smallest considerations and most inexpensive decisions can elevate your brand and leave a lasting impact on your customers. Unlocking Kiwi Potential this episode is a guide to making branding attainable and impactful. We'll share practical tips on how small, thoughtful decisions can add immense value to your brand, creating an experience that resonates with your customers. Whether you're a global corporation or a cosy local spot, branding is within reach. It's time to debunk the myths, break down the barriers, and show how small, inexpensive decisions can add real value to your brand.

Journey with Dan Johnson, the visionary founder of Kiosk, in this episode of "Beyond the Transaction." Kiosk isn't just a furniture store; it's a portal to a world where design, history, and personal expression are in harmony. In the early days of COVID lockdown, armed with a background in architecture, Dan found the courage to step away from the conventional and dive into the world of Kiosk. Discover how Kiosk grew from an online venture to a physical space, fueled by word-of-mouth and the heartbeat of genuine connections. And here's the exciting news: Kiosk has recently found its physical home at 6 Eden Street in Newmarket, ready to open its doors Thursday through Sunday. Join us as we explore this new chapter and the stories that unfold within these four walls. This isn't your typical furniture shop; it's a curated collection where every piece has a timeless story to tell. Join us as Dan shares the secrets behind the scenes, from sourcing vintage treasures in the hidden corners of New Zealand to the challenges of decision-making and logistics. This isn't just about buying furniture; it's about experiencing the artistry, history, and personality behind each piece. Welcome to "Beyond the Transaction," where Kiosk's stories unfold. Explore the vibrant world of Kiosk, where each item is a testament to Dan's keen eye for design. Learn about the delicate balance between aesthetics and functionality, and how colour is a language that speaks volumes. Join us on this episode as we uncover the stories, the challenges, and the inspirations that shape Kiosk. Ready to dive in?

In this captivating episode of "Beyond the Transaction," we embark on an inspiring journey through the world of innovation, creativity, and the reimagining of everyday experiences. Our remarkable guest, Karolina (Caroline) Konarkowska, sets the stage with a brilliant comparison, noting how an EFTPOS terminal can be as essential and familiar as a toilet button. Caroline's mastery of design is truly exceptional. Her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to breathe life into ideas have led her to craft narratives that transcend the ordinary, creating experiences that are as beautiful as they are functional. At the core of this episode lies a fundamental truth: Beauty is function. We delve deep into the essence of creativity and design, where aesthetics and utility converge to shape our world. Caroline shares her insights into the delicate balance between setting parameters and creating processes, while harnessing the full potential of creativity to achieve greatness. Her journey exemplifies how beauty can serve as a powerful form of function, sparking incredible change when nurtured effectively. Caroline's passion for challenging the norm is nothing short of remarkable. Through her work at Richards Partners, a creative agency known for inspiring change, she questions conventions and redefines possibilities. Discover how creativity, as discussed by Caroline, is not just about artistic expression, but also a potent tool for questioning the status quo, fostering innovation, and sculpting a brighter future where beauty seamlessly serves as function. What sets Richards Partners apart is their unwavering belief that a brand is built upon experience. In our conversation, Caroline unveils the importance of this principle and how crafting immersive, engaging experiences is the key to forging lasting connections with audiences. Join us as we uncover the power of creativity, the art of crafting brilliance, and the transformative impact it can have on individuals, businesses, and the world at large. Karolina Konarkowska's insights will leave you inspired and motivated to tap into your own creative potential, all while understanding the profound truth that beauty, when intelligently woven into design, becomes an essential form of function. Challenge the norm, embrace innovation, and explore the power of honesty in brand messaging with us in this episode.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Beyond the Transaction," the podcast that ventures into the heart of innovation and creativity. I'm your host, Katie Baldwin, and I'm thrilled to kick off this captivating journey alongside our incredible partners at Skyzer. In this premiere episode, we're setting the scene into the world of small and medium-sized businesses in New Zealand. Through my experiences in the vibrant business community of New Zealand, I've witnessed the remarkable transformations that occur when branding is approached with artistry and insight. We'll delve into my observations and explore why branding is more than just a logo or a name; it's the lifeblood of your business's identity. As we uncover the importance of branding, we'll touch on the nuanced ways it shapes perception, influences loyalty, and ultimately drives success. With the support of Skyzer, we'll reveal the stories of businesses that have harnessed the power of branding to not just survive but thrive in a competitive market. So, whether you're a business owner looking to redefine your brand or a curious soul seeking inspiration, join us. Together, we'll embark on a journey to uncover the essence of businesses and branding and explore the innovative future. Follow/subscribe to "Beyond the Transaction" and get ready to explore the world of branding, innovation, and creativity, right here from the heart of New Zealand.