Lemon Drops

Episode 41| Pride Taranaki Pride Week 2026

In this special episode of Lemon Drops with Smokeylemon, host Anna Richardson sits down with Chris Herlihy from Pride Taranaki to talk about what Pride means in a regional community – and why connection, visibility, and safe spaces matter more than ever.
Pride Taranaki is a volunteer-led group focused on building community and being a visible, supportive voice for the rainbow community in Taranaki. From regular monthly catch-ups like walking groups, bowling nights and coffee meet-ups, to the growing Pride Week programme, the mahi being done locally is powerful, grassroots and deeply community-focused.
We dive into:• What Pride Taranaki is and why it exists• The importance of visibility in regional Aotearoa• What’s coming up for Pride Week 2026 (10–19 April)• How local organisations and businesses support Pride Taranaki• Why Pride is for the whole community – not just one group• How you can get involved or support
Pride Week 2026 features over 30 events across Taranaki, including community breakfasts, panel discussions, movies, morning teas, historic walking tours, live theatre and music, creative arts projects, quiz nights, bowling, cocktail events, and more.
If you’re curious about Pride, want to learn more, or are looking for ways to connect and support locally – this kōrero is for you.
👉 Find out more about Pride Taranaki and view the full Pride Week programme:www.pridetaranaki.co.nz

Episode 40 | The Building Wellness Story

In this episode of Lemon Drops, Anna Richardson is joined by Campbell Mattson, Founder and Trustee of Building Wellness Taranaki, and Christina Lorth, General Manager, for an important conversation about wellbeing in the construction industry.
Campbell shares the big-picture vision and purpose behind Building Wellness, while Christina offers insight into the day-to-day work happening on the ground — supporting people, building connections, and changing culture across the sector.
An honest, practical discussion about leadership, mental health, and why looking after people is essential to a stronger industry.
Learn more at www.buildingwellness.co.nz

Episode 39 | Smokeylemon in 2026 Better Systems & Big Energy & FUN

This Lemon Drops episode Anna sat down the BIg Cheese Mands to talk all about slowing down to do things properly 🍋Boundaries, saying no, and better schedulingGiving more love to our clientsWhat’s coming next Celebrating 25 years of SmokeylemonCommunity, connection, and doing business with heartNo hustle culture. No rushing.Just intention, clarity, and building something that lasts.
🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more!

Episode 38 | Building Safer Families with Taranaki Safe Families Trust

In this powerful and important episode of Lemon Drops, we sit down with Dan Haskell, Coordinator/Manager of Taranaki Safe Families Trust (TSFT) to talk about the vital work being done across our region to prevent family violence and strengthen community wellbeing.
Taranaki Safe Families Trust is a collaborative network of agencies working together to create safer homes, healthier relationships, and more resilient communities. Dan shares insight into how this collaboration works in practice, the realities of family harm in Taranaki, and the positive change happening every day through education, prevention, and community connection.
We discuss:• What Taranaki Safe Families Trust does and why their work matters• Common misconceptions around family violence• The power of collaboration across agencies• Real-world community impact (anonymised)• How individuals, businesses, and sports clubs can help• The future of prevention and community-led change in Taranaki
This conversation is honest, hopeful, and deeply rooted in the belief that safer communities are built together.
If you or someone you know needs support, we encourage you to reach out to local services via Taranaki Safe Families Trust.
🔗 Learn more: https://www.taranakisafefamilies.org.nz
🎧 Subscribe for more Lemon Drops conversations with inspiring people across Taranaki.

Episode 37 | From Sanctuary to Hope - The Story of Taranaki Retreat

In this episode, Jamie Allen co-founder of Taranaki Retreat shares with Anna his families personal journey from deep loss to creating a sanctuary of hope for people.
We explore what inspired the foundation of Taranaki Retreat, the challenges faced, how the kaupapa (purpose) has evolved, and what led to the creation of Waimanako (Hope Centre) in New Plymouth.
Jamie discusses the impact these initiatives have had, the realities of expanding support in the heart of the city, and what hope truly means. We also talk about moving premises and envision the future of wellbeing in Taranaki.
Note: This conversation includes mention of suicide and distress. Please take care while listening, and step away if needed. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out for support.
Learn how to get involved, seek help, or support the work of Taranaki Retreat and Waimanako. Together, we create hope. Taranaki Retreat
If you or someone you know needs support, free help is available:
Free call or text 1737 any time to talk to a trained counsellor.​
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or free text 4357 (HELP).​
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO).​
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or free text 4202.​
Youthline: 0800 376 633, free text 234, or email talk@youthline.co.nz.​
Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
For emergencies or if someone is at immediate risk, call 111. Whatever you’re facing, you’re not alone, people are here to listen and help.

Episode 36 | Stu Sutherland Behind the Lens

In this episode, we’re flipping the script and Anna chats to the guy who’s usually behind the camera, Stu Sutherland.He’s our senior designer at Smokeylemon, plus the creative mind behind Franchise NZ Magazine’s fresh look and feel. We’ll dive into how Stu mixes design smarts and storytelling to bring brands and magazines to life.

Episode 35 | Jimi Hunt: Behind the Creative Vision

Step into the world of Jimi Hunt, Smokeylemon’s Creative Director, in this candid conversation with host Anna Richardson, Jimi peels back the layers of creativity, career, and personal growth. Discover how his upbringing and values have shaped his outlook on wellbeing, his journey through major roles at Newshub and MetService, and what drew him to lead creativity at Smokeylemon. Whether you're a fellow creative, aspiring professional, or simply curious, this episode offers insight into Jimi’s daily life, passions, and the experiences that continue to inspire him.

Episode 34 | SEO, AI & Analytics with Mands

Discover the secrets to getting your brand found online! Mands, the Big Cheese at Smokeylemon, breaks down SEO in simple terms, explains how AI is changing search, reveals what analytics really tell you, and shares her top tips for boosting visibility and creating content that connects.
Whether you’re new to digital marketing or sharpening your strategy, tune in for actionable advice and expert insights. Subscribe for more marketing wisdom and practical strategies!