25/05/2026
What do a sick hedgehog and LinkedIn have in common? 🦔
Apparently… reconnecting with old friends.
Last week, I took an injured hedgehog into the local vet clinic here in Taupō and unexpectedly ran into an old university era friend (and Vet) I hadn’t seen in years.
Then, a few nights later, there she was sitting in the audience at my Techweek26 session: “Unlock the Power of LinkedIn.” Thanks Sally Aitken, for coming along and for our photo.
Honestly, I couldn’t have planned a better reminder of what LinkedIn is really about.
Not algorithms.
Not vanity metrics.
Not trying to “go viral.”
Connection.
Real people.
Real relationships.
Real opportunities to reconnect, learn, support, encourage, and grow.
It was such a privilege to speak at Techweek26 Taupō at beautiful Waiora House and spend the evening with so many local business owners and professionals who came along curious, open-minded, and willing to learn.
One of my favourite parts of the night was hearing people say things like:
“I didn't know there was so much happening on LinkedIn beyond the content I see.”
The truth is, there is so much more to LinkedIn than content.
Most people are simply trying to work out:
• how to show up for their business or professionally
• how to explain what they do clearly
• how to build genuine relationships
• and how to use LinkedIn with more purpose and confidence
A huge thank you to Jo Caira, Rick Keehan, and the team at Amplify (Taupo District Economic Development) for creating such a welcoming and valuable week of events for the Taupō business community.
And thank you to everyone who came along, asked thoughtful questions, shared stories, and contributed to such a great atmosphere. It was a pleasure to meet you. 🙂