Episode
209

Back to Where It All Began: Kicking Off Season Four (David Melse)

For the first episode of Season Four, we’re taking it back to where it all began — in the car on the side of the road. What started as part of the 10 Million in 10 Years Challenge here at Kelly’s Creek has since grown through The Loft, multiple Distinct studios, and now into a brand-new Distinct space with fresh energy and a new podcast name ‘Across The Table with David Melse’. In this episode, David reflects on the journey so far, the people and sponsors who’ve supported it, and what’s ahead for the podcast. Expect a refreshed set, returning guests, and engaging conversations that continue to dive into the stories, ideas, and businesses shaping life in New Zealand and beyond.
With
David Melse
ALT.
,
Founder
Listen on
Podbean
EPISODE SPONSOR

Rosefern Homes

With
Paul & Ant
Founders
,
Rosefern Homes
Take Me There
about THIS EPISODE

Back to Where It All Began: Kicking Off Season Four (David Melse)

For the first episode of Season Four, we’re taking it back to where it all began — in the car on the side of the road. What started as part of the 10 Million in 10 Years Challenge here at Kelly’s Creek has since grown through The Loft, multiple Distinct studios, and now into a brand-new Distinct space with fresh energy and a new podcast name ‘Across The Table with David Melse’. In this episode, David reflects on the journey so far, the people and sponsors who’ve supported it, and what’s ahead for the podcast. Expect a refreshed set, returning guests, and engaging conversations that continue to dive into the stories, ideas, and businesses shaping life in New Zealand and beyond.

I'm kicking off Season Four by returning to Kelly's Creek where this podcast journey began over three years ago. What started as part of my 10 Million in 10 Years Challenge has evolved significantly, leading to our new name: 'Across The Table with David Melse'.

This title perfectly captures what we do – meaningful conversations with fascinating people, primarily in business, who give me energy and have compelling stories to share. I've enjoyed hosting repeat guests to track their journeys over time.

Our physical space has evolved from recording in my car to The Loft, through multiple Distinct studios, and now into a new, cosy environment featuring a beautiful table from Innate Furniture.

I want to thank our Season Three sponsors: Tom Hardy from White Fox Real Estate, Gerard's Insurance, Stoke Homes and Rico Neuroit. I'm excited to welcome Rose Fern Homes as our new sponsor – a natural partnership based on aligned values.

We'll begin with a fortnightly cadence before potentially moving to weekly episodes. Meanwhile, Alt is expanding with a new event coordinator starting soon and we're currently recruiting a content creator. The Altitude Collective is growing, with a cap planned at 20 members, alongside our continuing monthly Alt events.

Thank you to everyone who's been part of this journey – sponsors, supporters, listeners and production team. I'm looking forward to continuing this process of documenting over creating as we move into Season Four.

Go to play episode
featured

In the spotlight: Our most popular episodes

Here is our pick out of our 150+ episodes.

most recent

Listen up: Our latest discussions

Get the latest insights from the 10 Million 10 Years podcast.

See all episodes
Episode
214

Building Resilience and Meaning Beyond the Uniform | Daniel Lastovicka

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.
With
Daniel Lastovicka
Triathlete, Hunter, Adventurer
,
Episode
213

Built from the Roof Up | Mike Keast

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.
With
Mike Keast
Director
,
MK Roofing
Episode
212

From One Bar to Eight: The Hospitality Hustle | Nick Inkster

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.
With
Nick Inkster
Founder
,
Inkster Company Limited

Follow along on Instagram

For podcast reels, business insights, and behind-the-scenes content from Across the Table Podcast.

Follow on Instagram