Liam Dann is a prominent figure in New Zealand's media landscape, known for his multifaceted role as the Business Editor at The New Zealand Herald and author of best selling book "BBQ Economics". With a career spanning over two decades, Liam has established himself as a versatile writer, columnist, radio commentator, and producer of various multimedia content including videos and podcasts.
Born with an innate curiosity for the intricate workings of the world, Liam's journey into journalism began in the mid-1990s. However, it was in the early 2000s that he found his niche in financial journalism, delving deep into the realms of agriculture, aviation, technology, stock markets, and economics.
Liam's pivotal role as the Editor of the Business Herald from 2007 to 2015 saw him navigating the tumultuous waters of the global financial crisis. Leading with resilience and insight, he steered the publication through turbulent times, offering invaluable perspectives to readers amidst economic upheaval.
His journalistic endeavors have taken him far and wide, from China to Europe, the UK, and the US. Liam's passion for economic research and exploration has led him to embark on numerous study trips, allowing him to unravel the complexities of global markets firsthand.
Reflecting on his journey, Liam acknowledges the serendipitous nature of his career path, remarking, "Business is something I fell into after returning from my OE, having spent some time working in the financial sector in London." Yet, it is his unwavering commitment to storytelling that remains constant amidst the ever-evolving media landscape.
Beyond the realm of journalism, Liam is a devoted father, balancing the demands of his career with the joys of parenthood. A man of diverse interests, he also finds solace in the world of music, indulging his passion for vinyl records as an avid collector and occasionally showcasing his skills as a part-time DJ.
Driven by a desire to illuminate New Zealand's economic narrative, Liam leverages his extensive network of contacts in the world of finance and economics to bring complex concepts to life. With a blend of insight, humor, and relatability, he endeavors to make economics accessible to a diverse audience, ensuring that his storytelling resonates far beyond the confines of boardrooms and trading floors.
Talking Points
If I can understand economics anyone can
A personal journey from life as a surfer, bogan and want-to-be hippie into the world of finance, economics and money.If I can understand economics anyone can
This includes the story of how LIiam embraced the jargon and learned to understand money. With stories from 25 years as a business journalist and anecdotes from conversations with the likes of Graeme Hart, Stephen Tindall, Theresa Gattung, Eric Watson and numerous other rich-listers, Reserve Bank Governors and finance ministers.
Included are recollections and insights from leading the Business Herald through the Global Financial crisis and finance company collapses. And, reflections on what Liam has learned about money, risk and personal finance.
The economy right now
What will happen to interest rates, will house prices rise or fall, are we headed for (or out of) recession? The economy right now
Let's talk about what is happening in the economy right now and make sense of it all with context about political issues and insight in to what happens next. Liam aims to include reflections on how we should contextualise the economic news commentary we read and hear in the media, what economists get right, what they get wrong and what the media machine overlays and underplays.
Throughout Liam's talk he will explain key economic concepts, providing straightforward clarification for terms like recession and the mechanics of the OCR
