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What happens when you pause long enough to reflect before charging into a new year?

In this candid first episode of the year, Verity sits down with Penny and Rebecca for an honest conversation about where AD Library is heading and what they want 2026 to look like — both professionally and personally.

From the realities of business ownership and growing pains, to burnout, delegation, work-life balance and learning to celebrate wins, this episode offers a refreshingly real look at running a creative business while trying to maintain energy, purpose, and connection.

The team shares what challenged them in 2025, what they’re changing this year, and how AD Library continues to evolve as a space built around community, collaboration, and helping people feel confident in their building and renovation journeys.

If you’re stepping into the new year feeling excited, uncertain, or simply trying to figure out what comes next, this conversation might feel very familiar.

Show Notes

The start of a new year often comes with pressure to hit the ground running — but sometimes the most powerful move is to slow down first.

In this episode, Verity, Penny and Rebecca take a moment to reflect on the whirlwind year behind them and share what’s ahead for AD Library in 2026. From expansion plans and new systems to personal goals and learning to delegate, the conversation moves between laughter, honesty and practical reflection.

They explore questions many of us are asking ourselves:
 • What actually gives us energy at work?
 • What drains it?
 • Is work-life balance real or just something we chase?
 • And how do we make space to celebrate progress instead of only focusing on what still needs fixing?

Listeners also get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what’s happening inside AD Library, including space expansion, the upcoming Dunedin location, new brands joining, improved systems, and a growing community of creatives and renovators using the library.

Above all, this episode is a reminder that growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of wellbeing — and that reflection and intention-setting are powerful tools, whether you’re running a business or simply navigating a new season of life.

What We Cover in This Episode

• Reflecting on the challenges and wins of 2025
 • Learning to delegate and build better systems
 • The reality of work-life balance in business ownership
 • Identifying work that gives energy vs. drains it
 • Why celebrating wins matters
 • Expansion and growth plans for AD Library
 • The importance of community in creative industries
 • Personal and professional intentions for the year ahead

About AD Library

AD Library is a shared workspace and architectural sample library designed to support architects, designers, builders, and anyone building or renovating. It brings resources, expertise, and community together in one accessible space.

Visitors can browse and borrow samples, attend educational sessions, connect with industry professionals, and gain clarity on their projects — all under one roof.

How can you help us?

If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone starting their year with big plans or big questions.

And if you’re working on a build or renovation, come visit AD Library to browse and borrow materials, connect with industry experts, and find inspiration for your next project.