HeyJaredThe Leighton Smith Podcast
After 33 years behind the Newstalk ZB microphone, Leighton can’t give it up completely. There were so many requests to continue his opinionated commentary that the prospect of podcasting was born.So, without restriction, Leighton continues to serve up on everything you want…
- Indexed episodes, last 90 days
- 11
- Latest publication
- Sep 16, 2026
- Audience
- Checking…
- Earliest in this view
- Jul 8, 2026
Latest episodes
Leighton Smith Podcast #345 - September 16th 2026 - Alwyn Poole (opens the original)
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Alwyn Poole; Education & More. “The first point on how to improve all things education in NZ is that, so long as any government thinks that they are the podium of truth in this area, they will fail and all improvements will be marginal (at best)”. This was written by educational consultant Alwyn Poole. While improvements in education are promising, there is significant room for growth. Alwyn Poole is critical where necessary, but gives praise where warranted. We reveal interesting details regard
Leighton Smith Podcast #344 - September 9th 2026 - David Schnauer (opens the original)
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New Zealand once ranked among the world’s most prosperous nations. Not any longer. Armed with experience in both Law and Economics, retired lawyer David Schnauer spent a year writing “UNCOMFORTABLE ECONOMICS”. His purpose; to show that New Zealand’s underperformance is fixable. He challenges both politicians and citizens to lift their sights and demand more from our economy. In Podcast 344, David Schnauer is explicit in his assertions but expands on his ambitions for New Zealands future. And, as
Leighton Smith Podcast #343 - September 2nd 2026 - Michael F. Spratt (opens the original)
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After a casual visit to New Zealand, this small American family couldn’t forget it. Mike and his wife went home, sold up everything and moved here. It’s a journey of discovery, heartbreak, redemption and triumph. They were told they were on a fool’s errand; that the standards they set were financially suicidal. They did it anyway. They planted a vineyard that has beaten the top French wines at their own game. The story has this week been published, written by the owner himself. “Forged In Fire”
Leighton Smith Podcast #342 - August 26th 2026 - Ashley Church (opens the original)
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In these times it’s difficult to stay updated with the “good, the bad and the ugly.” In this environment it’s easy to be ill-informed. Independent commentator Ashley Church has been analysing virtually every issue that affects society and our lives. Steeped in a background of politics, economics, business and real estate, he is a talking encyclopaedia. We had an interesting discussion on Net Zero, politics, (particularly TOPs appearance,) journalism, and the coming election. And we visit the Mai
Leighton Smith Podcast - August 19th 2026 - Shane Jones (opens the original)
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As Leighton is on a short break, for this week's episode we dig into the archives for a repeat of his interview with NZ First Deputy Leader Shane Jones from earlier in the year. Back next week with episode #342. File your comments and complaints at Leighton@newstalkzb.co.nz OR Carolyn@newstalkzb.co.nz Haven't listened to a podcast before? Check out our simple how-to guide. Listen here on iHeartRadio Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes: To subscribe via iTunes click here See omnystu
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