Talking Money in Māori & Pacific Communities | Willie Leota

In this episode, David sits down with Willie Leota, host of the award-winning Fresh Moni podcast which tackles the cultural stigma around money conversations in Pacific and Māori communities. Willie explains how his podcast serves as a modern iteration of traditional "talenoa" - where knowledge is passed down through oral storytelling.

Willie shares his transition from 11 years in banking to becoming a mortgage adviser and podcast host. Despite once being terrified of talking to people, he's built a platform that won multiple New Zealand Podcast Awards in its first year. His vision? Creating a Forbes-level media brand focused on financial education.

The conversation explores how Pacific and Māori cultures often avoid money discussions due to humility, and how breaking this silence can lead to generational change. Willie's approach blends cultural connection with practical financial advice, asking guests about their journey and what wealth truly means to them beyond monetary value.

Willie emphasises the importance of consistent action, belief in yourself, and building genuine connections when growing a business or platform. He balances his mortgage advisory work with podcast creation, applying the sales skills learned in banking to both ventures while staying true to his values and family priorities.

The most rewarding aspect? Hearing from listeners who've achieved their first home purchase after gaining knowledge from his content - proving that financial education creates tangible positive change in people's lives.