In this episode, we sit down with the mighty Helen Shorthouse, founder of Shorthouse Consulting and a newly certified B Corp based in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Episode Highlights:

• From Economic Development to B Corp Advocacy – Helen shares her background in economic development, her time at ChristchurchNZ (formerly CDC), and her long-standing commitment to helping small businesses grow and tell their stories effectively.

• Bridging Strategy, Marketing & Sales – We dive into her shift into marketing consulting, the importance of sales and marketing alignment, and why both disciplines are more science than art.

• Lessons from the Agri Sector – Helen reflects on her first job in New Zealand at Ravensdown, where she learned a game-changing lesson: you actually have to ask for the business.

• From Kent to New Zealand – Originally from Kent (the “sh*t hole part,” as she says), Helen shares her journey to New Zealand, how she fell in love with the country, and why she believes NZ is a perfect testing ground for new ideas.

• Discovering Business as a Force for Good – Helen’s epiphany moment came when she connected with B1G1, introducing her to the idea of business as a force for good. Despite a business setback after the Christchurch earthquakes, this idea stuck with her.

• The B Corp Certification Process – Helen opens up about the rigor of the B Corp process, the imposter syndrome she felt upon certification, and why perfection isn’t the goal—progress is.

• Balancing Purpose & Profit – We wrap up by discussing the modern business landscape, why B Corp is a statement of intent, and how Helen is using it as a platform to give back and make an impact.

This episode is for entrepreneurs, marketers, and anyone curious about aligning business with impact.