Izzy Whitley: How I built a $38m business

One week ago, we sent out a message asking for ‘everyday Kiwi’ guest suggestions.

We were looking for lower-profile characters with incredible tales to tell - and the haul was a goodie. An overwhelming list of epic suggestions came tumbling in. It's a direction we’re excited to head in the future, we're finding that the hidden gems often elicit the best feedback.

I think Izzy Whitley fits this category. It’s a name most would not have known but his episode is on track to be one of our most popular. He’s 28, from humble beginnings in Gisborne, lost his dad to suicide, suffered two heart-attacks, and in the shadow of that adversity, founded two companies that are now both doing over $30million a year in revenue.

Ninety minutes with Izzy unleashed the full power of his story. His mindset is unmatched. He's perhaps the most-impressive under-30-year-old I've spoken too. A script set for a movie.

We’re starting to recognise the power of the BTB platform and can’t wait to introduce you to many more epic Kiwis.

Some other thoughts from the last month:

Cori Gonzalez’ story hit our listeners hard. Discussion around mental health in NZ has become a regular fixture in our chats, but to hear such an authentic, articulate, first-hand account of Cori’s journey back from the depths of despair, was super powerful.

The same goes for Football Fern Rebekah Stott. Getting cancer in the middle of your professional football career - and bouncing back from it to play at your dream World Cup in NZ, is such a heartwarming yarn. Prediction: Stott will go on to become one of the greatest coaches the Football Ferns have had.

Our HAMBASSADORS community is building nicely. Our private Facebook group with nearly 500 people is starting to develop its voice, we're planning some live events and next week will release a new mid-week Q and A podcast, where we answer listeners' questions. And no, you don’t have to like Hamilton to be a HAMBASSADOR – but you do have to like us!

We are hosting a bunch of live events in July, both MCing and conducting live ‘on the couch’ style Q and As. If you think we’d be a good fit for your event – get in touch!

And lets us know if you have any more great guest suggestions!