Leighton Smith Podcast #329 - May 20th 2026 - Leonard S. Hong

Leighton Smith Podcast #329 - May 20th 2026 - Leonard S. Hong

From The Leighton Smith Podcast by Newstalk ZB

May 20, 2026 · 1h 27m

About this episode

Leonard S. Hong discusses his experiences and the challenges facing young New Zealanders, including economic issues and the brain drain to Australia.

Leonard S. Hong arrived in New Zealand at the age of three.  His story is one of choosing the right parents, hard work, and applied effort to succeed.  At age 29 he has a Master of Science and has completed a Prime Ministerial Scholarship to Asia. He’s worked in Perth and Singapore, and speaks both English and Korean fluently.  He is a valuable citizen.  But why are he and so many of his friends angry and leaving NZ?  Leonard S. Hong in conversation, discusses New Zealand’s economic malaise, the brain drain to Australia, Singapore’s development model, meritocracy, and the future facing young New Zealanders. And as always, we checked the Mailroom with Mrs Producer, and concluded with climate matters.  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 omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Host: Leighton Smith

Guest: Leonard S. Hong

Topics covered

  • economic malaise
  • brain drain
  • meritocracy
  • young New Zealanders
  • climate matters

Keywords

  • Leonard S. Hong
  • New Zealand
  • brain drain
  • economic malaise
  • meritocracy
  • climate matters

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: New Zealand, Australia, Singapore

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