This event was postponed from May to June due to floods.
Straight Talk: Lessons Learned from Starting & Running a Business
What We Wish We Knew Before Taking the Leap, whether in embarking on a new business, launching a new product, expanding your market or asking for a loan to expand your business.
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Running a micro business can be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do—but it’s also a rollercoaster of hard lessons, small wins, big risks, and moments of doubt. And sometimes, you just want to hear from someone who's walked the same path.
That’s why the Micro Business Forum is hosting a down-to-earth, no-fluff panel discussion featuring real business owners sharing real stories—what they’ve learned, what they’d do differently, and how they’re still navigating the journey today.
In this interactive session, we’ll talk openly about the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to starting and running a business.
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Meet the Panel Speakers:
Lyn Richardson – Rosewood Environmental Services
With over 25 years in business, Lyn runs a successful geotechnical testing and consulting company supporting small- to medium-scale developments. She’s seen it all—economic ups and downs, evolving technologies, and the changing face of business. Her journey is rich with experience, resilience, and lessons only time can teach.
Patrick Dale – Sweet Tooth Marshmallow
Patrick started his business journey at just 10 years old—and yes, he’s still going strong as a teen entrepreneur! His fresh perspective, creativity, and determination prove that age is no barrier when it comes to following your passion. There’s so much to learn from how the next generation of business thinkers do things differently.
John McKenzie - X42 Operational Consultants
John McKenzie, Founder and Principal Consultant of x42, brings over 20 years of leadership experience across sports, government agencies, and national service operations. With expertise in operational efficiency, strategic growth, and executive advisory, John has managed large-scale operations, including a $200m security portfolio, and now supports organisations with revenues up to $100m. As President of the Hastings Early Interventions Management Committee, he is deeply committed to community impact. Known for facilitating meaningful dialogue and uncovering actionable insights, John will bring a wealth of real-world experience to guide this panel discussion on the key learnings and strategies for small business success.
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What We’ll Cover:
What we wish someone had told us at the start
The biggest lessons we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!)
How to get through challenges and keep your business moving
Tips on managing mindset, money, and motivation
What’s changed in the business landscape—and how to adapt
Who Should Come?
Small and micro business owners
Home-based business operators
Side-hustlers and solo entrepreneurs
Anyone thinking about starting a business
Whether you’re just beginning or have been in business for years, you’ll leave this session feeling inspired, supported, and full of practical tips you can use right away.
This is your chance to connect with fellow business owners, ask questions, and learn from others who have walked a similar path.
Light refreshments will be provided.
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