In this Q+A series, we’ve asked our Coaches to share their insights into the work they do and how our services can support you. Whether you’re looking for guidance on Leadership, Succession Planning, or Business & Strategy, this series will give you a deeper understanding of how we help Rural New Zealanders navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Our goal? To provide the knowledge, tools, and support you need to move forward with clarity, confidence, and a strong network behind you.
Read John Redpath, Partner in Tasman, Nelson, Marlborough and North Canterbury's Q+A below.
Who are your typical clients?
My clients range from young people making their way into farming, family farms and farming families through to larger family operations and corporate farming businesses.
And at times AgriBusiness’s supporting farmers. All are connected and passionate about the farming industry and their roles within this
Which Rural Coach services are most popular with your clients?
The conversations normally start off with Discovery conversations — both 1-1 and through our People360 process. This highlights the opportunities, challenges and the options around where to start and what support is needed - both from Rural Coach and/or other Rural professionals.
60% of my work would be Farm Succession Planning/transition discussions alongside People, Team and Leadership development discussions. The earlier people start having these discussions, the better the outcomes and future solutions.
What are the most common challenges you see your clients facing?
Not knowing where to start. Not being able to find someone they trust to share what is really concerning them. Not really understanding their numbers and the current reality.
How do you get the clients’ good ideas out of their heads?
Asking open questions and listening to understand and being 100% present through this.
What factors do you see commonly preventing clients from achieving their dreams/objective?
Feeling overwhelmed and busy in the business day-to-day, and being unable to create quality time to work on the business. Not having a plan and roadmap to work. Not having clarity as to what success really looks like - for themselves, their family and the farming business Finding reasons not to start having the courageous conversations that are needed.
What gives you the most joy when working with your clients?
Seeing the light bulb moments. The relief that happens when everything is safely shared and discussed. Family relationships are even stronger at the end of the discussions, and everyone looking forward to their own futures with clarity.
If you're ready to take the next step— whether it's gaining clarity on Leadership, tackling Succession Planning, or setting a long-term vision—we're here to help. Click here to find a Coach in your region.
