For episode 219, we sat down with James Wallace for an extraordinary and raw account of the business crisis that rocked his company over the last nine months. James offers a crash course in the true cost of scaling, revealing how his management philosophy—a desire to "see the best in people" and an inability to control structural mistakes—led to a catastrophic breakdown. He details how the company’s culture deteriorated to a point where he "didn't want to go to work," client losses mounted, and expensive legal challenges emerged, leaving him feeling like a "shell of a human" while balancing the crisis with being a new father. The conversation shifts to the critical "line in the sand" moment in April when James realized the business was facing death if he didn't take immediate, radical control. He shares the strategic decisions that stabilized the ship, including personally stepping back into the sales trenches with his brother to generate significant recurring revenue, which bought the company the time necessary to execute a brutal but necessary restructure. James breaks down how he slashed the workforce but created a new structure that was "delivery heavy," prioritizing a high quality product over bloated management. Today, the company is not only out of the woods but is experiencing its best margins ever, with monthly revenue expected to cross the $300,000 mark. James offers his hardest-won lessons on the necessity of protecting a healthy culture "at all costs," the mistake of trying to "farm out" director responsibilities he disliked, and the vital importance of making tough decisions early rather than hoping problems will correct themselves. This episode is a must-listen for any leader who has faced adversity, proving that genuine intention and forward momentum are the ultimate keys to transforming failure into explosive growth.   Check out Digital Simple here:https://www.digitalsimple.co.nz/ ___________________ We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Rosefern Homes. Check them out here:https://www.rosefernhomes.co.nz/ ___________________ Across The Table with David Melse has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

For episode 218, we sat down with Hayley Sharp, a certified breathwork facilitator, coach, and former corporate HR professional. Hayley shares her compelling journey from a 15-year corporate career—where she experienced multiple rounds of burnout—to taking a huge leap into self-employment to help others find a new way of living and being. In this episode, we talk about: The Science of Burnout: Hayley defines burnout not just as emotional exhaustion, but as the body hitting a tipping point where it enters an underlying survival mode, contrasting this with the literal threats faced by our ancestors. Identifying Your Stress Mode: We go beyond the common Fight and Flight responses to explore the often overlooked Freeze (procrastination, feeling weighed down) and the super common Fawn (people-pleasing and sacrificing personal needs). Breathwork as a Superpower: Hayley explains how her specific, guided breathwork technique allows you to access a non-ordinary state of consciousness by slowing down the default mode network (the "monkey mind"). This allows you to dispel stuck energy, emotions, and stress stored within the body. Blending the Spectrum: Hayley shares her unique methodology of blending logic, science, and spirituality, explaining that spirituality often shows up in business as following your intuition and instinct—that "gut feel" that drives bold, aligned action. The Power of Retreats: The conversation also touches on her luxurious, immersive retreats, which combine c.   Check out Hayley Sharp:https://www.hayleysharp.co.nz/ ___________________ We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Rosefern Homes. Check them out here:https://www.rosefernhomes.co.nz/ ___________________ Across The Table with David Melse has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

For episode 217, we sat down with Tim Bateman. From a highly respected professional rugby player who commanded the midfield to the founder of a rapidly-scaling wellness brand, Tim’s journey is a powerful study in discipline, peak performance, and translating the hard-won lessons of elite sport into groundbreaking business success. In this episode we talk about the mental fortitude required to transition from the pressure of the playing field to the relentless startup environment, how the intense focus on physical recovery during his professional rugby career became the blueprint for his successful seven-site studio, the key entrepreneurial lessons he learned while competing at the highest level, and his mission to democratize the elite recovery practices once reserved only for athletes. Plus a few laughs about his most brutal on-field encounters, the strange diets of professional rugby teams, and how he manages the natural "dissatisfaction" that drives all high performers.   Check out Tim: @timbateman.nz Check out Ostudio Global: @ostudio_global ___________________ We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Rosefern Homes. Check them out here:https://www.rosefernhomes.co.nz/ ___________________ Across The Table with David Melse has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

For Episode 216, we sat down with Ellie Compton, a successful artist who merged her architectural background with her creative passion to build a highly structured, profitable enterprise.     Ellie's professional journey demonstrates the power of converting a side project into a full-time career through calculated strategy and business acumen. In this episode, we talk about the development of her unique architectural, medieval, and steampunk-inspired line illustrations and the strategic financial metrics that allowed her to transition away from a traditional career.     We conduct a deep dive into her business ecosystem—from leveraging premium-priced commissions and commercial murals to launching a popular mentorship program for other artists. We discuss the critical role of presentation and high-quality packaging in elevating brand value, the strategic approach to cultivating long-term client relationships, and the necessary financial and marketing discipline required to thrive as an artist in the modern market.       Check out her art at: https://www.elliecompton.com/     ___________________     We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Rosefern Homes. Check them out here:   https://www.rosefernhomes.co.nz/     ___________________   Across The Table With David Melse has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct. Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:     https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

For episode 215 we sat down with Troy and Nic from Lead Head. What started as a few mates with an idea has grown into one of New Zealand’s most recognisable lifestyle brands, built on creativity, community and a good dose of chaos. In this episode we talk about the story behind LeadHead’s rise — from custom golf hats to international orders — and how a casual podcast appearance turned into a full business partnership. We also dive into their approach to building culture through authenticity, how they’ve stayed true to their roots as the brand grows, and why every decision, no matter how big, still comes down to a game of paper, scissors, rock.   Check out Lead Head:https://leadhead.nz/ ___________________ We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Rosefern Homes. Check them out here:https://www.rosefernhomes.co.nz/ ___________________ Across The Table With David Melse has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

For episode 214, we sat down with Daniel Lastovicka.   From his family’s journey from Czechoslovakia to New Zealand to building a career as an Army officer, hunter, and endurance athlete, Daniel’s story is one of purpose, discipline, and pushing beyond limits. In this episode we talk about the creation of Project Beyond the Ranges — Daniel’s self-made Movember challenge combining a 5km swim across Lake Tekapo, a mountain run over the Two Thumb Range, and a 200km ride back to Christchurch — and the deeper mission behind it: raising awareness and action for men’s mental health. We also dive into the lessons the military teaches about leadership and resilience, the connection between hardship and growth, and how showing up for yourself and others can change lives. Check out Daniel:https://www.instagram.com/dan_lasto/ ___________________ We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Rosefern Homes. Check them out here:https://www.rosefernhomes.co.nz/ ___________________ Across The Table with David Melse has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz  

For episode 213, we sat down with Mike Keast.   From working on roofs at nine years old to running multiple successful roofing businesses, Mike’s story is one of consistency, resilience, and backing yourself through the ups and downs of business.   In this episode we talk about staying focused when things get tough, what it really means to lead by example, and how mindset and momentum can carry you through any season. We also dive into lessons from David Goggins, the role of AI and technology in the trades, and how doing the hard things day after day shapes both the person and the business.   Check out MK Roofing:https://mkroofing.co.nz/ ___________________ We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Stoke Homes. Check them out here:https://www.stokehomes.co.nz/ ___________________ Across The Table With David Melse has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

For episode 212, we sat down with Nick Inkster.   From mopping floors at 4am to running one of Christchurch’s most iconic hospitality groups, Nick’s story is one of grit, growth, and doing what it takes to make it happen. In this episode we talk about building OGB in memory of his dad, the lessons learned from expanding to eight venues, what it’s really like managing 140 staff, and how Christchurch’s next few years might just be its golden era. Plus a few laughs about pub life, loyal locals, and the wild ride of turning one bar into a hospitality group that helped shape a city.   Check out BUSINESS:https://www.inkstercompany.co.nz/ ___________________ We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Gerrards. Check Gerrards out here:https://gerrards.co.nz/ ___________________ Across The Table with David Melse has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz  

Sacha Coburn of Coffee Culture shares how failure, courage, and bold choices built a thriving business and lasting success

For episode 210, we sat down with Ant and Paul from Rosefern Homes. From humble beginnings fixing houses to building a property development company grounded in values, Ant and Paul’s approach is practical, people-first, and unapologetically hands-on. In this episode we talk about leveraging social media to find property deals, building a business that reflects your values, overcoming resistance to putting yourself out there, and the power of small, consistent actions. Plus some laughs about Pilates, smoked meats, and why authenticity beats flash every time. Check out Rosefern Homes:https://rosefernhomes.co.nz/ ___________________ We’d also like to thank Rosefern Homes who are also our sponsor for this episode. ___________________ Across the Table with David Melse has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

David reflects on the podcast’s journey from recording in a car to launching Season Four in a new studio, under a new name, and sharing what’s ahead.

For episode 208, we sat down with Tristan Bailey.   From building a national electrical and security company to launching a SaaS business on the side, Tristan’s approach to leadership is fast, people first, and unapologetically hands on.   In this episode we talk about sales psychology, long-term relationships, retention strategies, and how to grow a team that actually sticks. Plus some wisdom on low voltage tech, cold beers, and why sleep might be optional.   Check out Vision Systems:https://visionsystems.co.nz/    ___________________   We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Neurofit. Check them out here:https://www.neurofit.co.nz/    ___________________   The 10 Million 10 Year Podcast has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

In this episode, Simon returns to share what life’s looked like since exiting his companies. From road-tripping Europe to finding new purpose (and cash flow) through business acquisition.   We dive into decision fatigue, energy management, learning to say no, and building a business you actually want to run. It’s a wide-ranging chat on investing, productivity, problem solving, and backing local. With stories of skiing in Verbier, private equity naps, and the best salesman in New Zealand.   ___________________   We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Stoke Homes. Check them out here:https://www.stokehomes.co.nz/    ___________________   The 10 Million 10 Year Podcast has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

Hamish Mehrtens is back. In this episode, we break down what actually moves the needle when it comes to fat loss, fitness, and staying accountable. No fluff, no shortcuts. Just practical insight on how to build momentum when life’s already full.   It’s not about perfection. It’s about showing up, making better decisions, and keeping the promise you made to yourself.   Be sure to check out Hamish: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamish-mehrtens-b13129149/?originalSubdomain=nz  ___________________ We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Gerrards Insurance. Check them out here: https://gerrards.co.nz/  ___________________ The 10 Million 10 Year Podcast has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

In this episode, Andrew joins us for a chat about cars, property, and life decisions. From selling rare Porsches to managing a four-hectare lifestyle block, he shares lessons learned from years of business and investing.   We also get into the realities of homeownership, run club fitness goals, and the appeal of digital nomad life. It’s a mix of practical insights, personal stories, and good laughs. From cold plunges to engagement celebrations.   Check out Eyrewell Forest Motor Company:https://www.efmc.co.nz/  ___________________ We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Tom Hardy. Check him out here:https://whitefoxrealestate.co.nz/team/tom-hardy/  ___________________ The 10 Million 10 Year Podcast has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

In this deeply personal episode, Harrison Strickland opens up about the life-changing moment he lost his father. A fellow entrepreneur and his biggest influence. With little warning, Harrison was suddenly responsible for not just his own fast-growing creative business, Aperture HD, but also his late father’s company, 3D Revolution.    What followed was a year of emotional and financial strain, learning on the fly, and doing whatever it took to keep his family supported. Through honest conversation, he shares the weight of that transition, the loneliness of entrepreneurship, and the growth that comes from being thrown in the deep end.   Check out ApertureHD:https://www.aperturehd.co.nz/   ___________________   We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Stoke Homes. Check them out here:https://www.stokehomes.co.nz/   ___________________   The 10 Million 10 Year Podcast has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

In this episode, we sit down with Willie, host of the award-winning Fresh Moni podcast, to unpack the cultural discomfort around financial conversations, the power of storytelling, and why normalising money talk is key to generational change.   We dive into his journey from banking to launching a podcast that’s grown into a platform for education, empowerment, and real talk about wealth, values, and purpose. From winning at the NZ Podcast Awards to dreaming of building a Forbes-level media brand, Willie shares insights on business, belief, and taking consistent action—without losing your roots.   Check out Fresh Moni: https://www.freshmoni.co.nz   ___________________   We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Gerrards Insurance Brokers. Check them out here: https://gerrards.co.nz   ___________________   The 10 Million 10 Year Podcast has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

In this episode, Matt from Lifestyle Lawns joins us for an open, grounded, and deeply relatable conversation about taking risks, backing yourself, and building something meaningful from the ground up. From walking away from a steady job to launching a business with no safety net, Matt shares the emotional and financial realities of going all-in while raising a young family and betting everything on an idea most people weren’t ready for.   We also explore the importance of partnership, purpose, and staying true to your values in the face of uncertainty. Matt reflects on the highs and lows of business ownership, the lessons he’s learned about leadership and empathy, and why being “the good guys” in the industry matters more than chasing margin. This is a conversation about grit, growth, and holding your nerve when the future feels anything but guaranteed.   Check out Lifestyle Lawns: lifestylelawns.co.nz    ___________________   We’d like to thank our sponsor for this episode, Tom Hardy. Check him out here:https://whitefoxrealestate.co.nz/team/tom-hardy/    ___________________   The 10 Million 10 Year Podcast has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

In this episode, Jake Bailey joins us for a raw, honest, and wide-ranging conversation about resilience. From surviving cancer as a teenager to building a career around helping others navigate adversity, Jake shares hard-earned wisdom about emotional capacity, self-efficacy, and the strength that comes from intentionally doing difficult things, whether that’s running an ultra-marathon or having an uncomfortable conversation. We also dive into identity, growth, and the tension between being shaped by your past and stepping into a new future. Jake reflects on his experience of moving beyond the label of “teen cancer survivor,” embracing new challenges, and why real human connection is more meaningful than any productivity tool or polished keynote. This is a conversation filled with thoughtful insights, reflection, and encouragement for anyone figuring out how to move through the hard stuff that life inevitably brings.   See more from Jake here:https://www.jakebailey.co.nz/    ___________________   We’d like to thank this episode's sponsor, Neurofit. Check them out here:https://www.neurofit.co.nz/   ___________________   The 10 Million 10 Year Podcast has taken a dramatic increase in production value thanks to the team at Distinct.  Looking for content partners to take your brand to the next level? Get in touch with them here:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz

In this milestone 200th episode, 10 million in 10 years goes fully off-grid. Broadcasting from the beaches of Sri Lanka with a crew of adventurers/business owners. From building businesses and integrating AI, to reflections on growth, travel, and the power of community, this episode dives into the human side of entrepreneurship.  Guests open up about the realities of remote leadership, leaning into discomfort, and how shared adventure accelerates connection. Whether it’s driving a tuk tuk for the first time or rolling out scalable AI tools for clients, the theme is clear: growth happens at the edge of your comfort zone.   ___________________   We’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors for backing us and helping us reach this milestone:   Gerrards Insurance Brokers: https://gerrards.co.nz/    Stoke Homes: https://www.stokehomes.co.nz/    Neurofit: https://www.neurofit.co.nz/    Tom Hardy: https://whitefoxrealestate.co.nz/team/tom-hardy/  Distinct:https://www.distinctagency.co.nz