The Puzzle Factory

Episode 5 - Seb Weaver - Blackout Electric

Blackout Electric - Episode 5Guest: Seb Weaver – Blackout Electric 
Episode Summary:In this episode, Alex sits down with long-time friend and Blackout Electric owner, Seb Weaver, for a conversation packed with laughs, business insights, and a deep dive into what it takes to build a standout family business. From carving out a unique space in the market to creating branding that resonates, Seb reveals the secrets behind Blackout Electric’s success—and the lessons he’s learned along the way. If you're looking to start your own business or just want to hear what it's really like behind the scenes, this episode is a must-listen!
About Seb:Seb is the owner of Blackout Electric, a business that’s quickly making a name for itself with standout branding and top-notch service. In this episode, he shares the highs, the lows, and all the laughs in between.
Website : Blackout Electric
 
Want to get in touch and give us your feedback or be a guest on the show?
Get in touch at:podcast@nztradegroup.co.nz

Episode 4 - Matt Melville - From Hot Coq to Soft Coq

The Puzzle Factory - Episode 4Guest: Matt Melville, Founder of Rum and Que
Episode Summary:In this episode, we catch up with Matt Melville, the founder of Rum and Que. Matt and Alex talk about his journey emigrating from Australia, working as a sparky, to starting a BBQ comp team, and finally turning his passion into a full-time business. Now, Rum and Que is a huge success, and Matt’s story is all about following your passion and making it happen. We also share a few laughs and reminisce on some mischief from our past—after all, we’ve been mates for years!
About Matt Melville:Matt Melville is the founder of Rum and Que, a popular BBQ  brand in NZ. Originally from Australia, Matt moved to NZ, worked as an electrician, and eventually found his love for BBQ. After starting a BBQ competition team, he turned that passion into a business. Today, Rum and Que is one of NZ's most loved BBQ brands, and Matt’s journey is a true inspiration.
 
Want to know more about Rum and Que?
www.rumandque.com
Discount Code for 10% of at www.rumandque.com  - NZTG10
Instagram
Facebook
Tik Tok
 
 

Episode 3 - 5 Steps to Thrive in 2025

Hosts: Alex & Tait – Business Growth Expert
Episode Summary:In this episode of The Puzzle Factory, Tait shares 5 actionable steps to prepare your business for 2025. From conducting a SWOT analysis to segmenting your customers, Alex offers practical strategies for strengthening relationships, improving your credit checks, and optimizing your time management. Tune in for easy-to-follow advice that will help you build a solid foundation for long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
SWOT Analysis: Identify your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats to create a focused business plan for 2025.
Customer Segmentation via Xero: Organize customers into A, B, and C groups and create strategies to re-engage each group.
Strengthen Business Relationships: Focus on key relationships—staff, customers, wholesalers, and partners—to drive growth.
Credit Checks: Make credit checks part of your process to ensure financial security.
Professional Development & Time Management: Schedule regular meetings, set clear goals, and manage your time effectively.
nztradegroup.co.nz

Episode 2 - Craig Heaton - No1

The Puzzle Factory - Episode [2]Guest: Craig Heaton - The 1st member to join NZ Trade Group 
Episode Summary:In this episode of The Puzzle Factory, Alex sits down with Craig Heaton of Heaton Electrical, the 1st official member of NZ Trade Group. We talk about the up's and downs of running an electrical business over the years, the mental health challenges that it can bring and we have a bloody good laugh. 
About Craig:Craig is the owner of Heaton Electrical and has been with us since the very beginning, he has some great insight into the industry and the challenges we face on a day to day basis. Craig is a real character and a pleasure to chat to. 
Want to get in touch and give us your feedback or be a guest on the show? 
Get in touch at :
podcast@nztradegroup.co.nz

Episode 1 - Leigh Olsen - Tradie HR

The Puzzle Factory - Episode [1]Guest: Leigh from Tradie HR - The Queen of All Things HR in the Trade Industry
Episode Summary:In this episode of The Puzzle Factory, Alex sits down with the one and only Leigh from Tradie HR – a powerhouse in the world of human resources for the trade industry. Known as the "Queen of HR" within the trades, Leigh brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, offering invaluable insights into managing people, building strong teams, and navigating HR challenges in the fast-paced world of electrical businesses.
About Leigh:Leigh is the founder of Tradie HR, where she’s on a mission “getting the people stuff right”  With years of experience in the HR space, particularly within the trade and electrical industries, Leigh is passionate about ensuring that businesses not only succeed but also endorse environments where employees are valued, respected, and empowered.
Want to know more about Tradie HR? 👇
https://tradiehr.co.nz/

Trailer

Welcome to The Puzzle Factory, the podcast where the electrical business gets broken down, one piece at a time. Hosted by Tait and Alex from NZ Trade Group, we mix expert insights with plenty of laughs to tackle the tough topics, solve industry puzzles, and keep your business buzzing. Tune in for a dose of humor, practical advice, and a fresh take on the electrical trade!
podcast@nztradegroup.co.nz
nztradegroup.co.nz