Every great story starts with a spark. For us at Pop That, it began with a leap of faith, a few gutsy “Why nots?”, and a desire to do things differently. As we approach nine years of creative adventures, we’re taking a look back at some of the early projects that helped shape who we are today.

So grab a snack (popcorn, perhaps?) and join us on a trip down memory lane.

QES: The Spark That Started It All

Before Pop That had a name, Philip—our now Managing Director—was COO at QES, an organisation focused on second-chance education and employment. Their work wasn’t just about jobs; it was about transforming lives through confidence, community, and opportunity. You don’t walk away from that kind of purpose lightly.

But Philip had a vision. He knew he wanted to build something of his own. So when he left QES to start Pop That, they became one of our very first clients. It was while working on marketing for QES that he met Ben—at a 95bFM volunteer gathering, no less—and a creative partnership was born. From shared video projects and wild creative brainstorms to building something truly original, Pop That was officially off and running.

Hungry Creek: Our Artsy Origins

One of our earliest storytelling projects took us to Hungry Creek Art & Craft School, where we teamed up with Clio and Shane, two visionaries with creativity in their bones and dreams as vast as the campus skies.

Our mission? To create a “big sky” video that brought the magic of the student experience to life. Graduation ceremonies, open days, student artwork—we captured it all. That first collaboration blossomed into broader digital marketing work, helping Hungry Creek attract new talent.

A year later, Philip even returned as a guest speaker, delivering social media tutorials and securing free Sprout Social trials for the class. Looking back, we still get inspired by those students: emerging jewellers, artists, and designers finding their voice.

Heartland Chips: The Road Trip That Changed Everything

Our first out-of-town shoot brought us to Timaru with Grace PR, where we created a visual story for Heartland Chips. Think farming roots (Philip’s family hails from Coromandel), paddock-to-plate authenticity, and a warm Kiwi welcome from the Bowan family.

We toured their farm and factory, filmed everything from soil to snack, and shared hearty dinners that made us feel like whānau. And the chips? Absolute perfection. To this day, every Heartland chip is still made from potatoes grown right there on the Bowan farm. Now that’s keeping it real.

I’m Not A Barber: Where Creativity Got Cheeky

This one was just fun. I’m Not A Barber was all about celebrating personality, not perfection. We took client-snapped photos, shot quirky videos, and helped launch a new salon—Headlarious (yep, that’s the name).

It reminded us that creativity doesn’t always need polish, it just needs honesty and heart. When brands show their playful side, audiences respond with loyalty and laughter.

Swisse: Big Names, Bigger Smiles

Partnering with Blink Boys and Grace PR, we worked with Swisse—and the one and only Kieran Read. Set in a local school, this project was packed with feel-good moments, heartwarming smiles, and a good dose of All Black charm.

It was a big-name project with a down-to-earth spirit, which is exactly how we like it.

So, What’s Next?

From social impact to salty snacks, student artists to sporting legends, our early days were full of unexpected adventures, scrappy energy, and meaningful partnerships.

Those roots shaped our DNA: fearless creativity, authentic connection, and storytelling with soul.

Nine years later, we’re still building something bold, together. Want to create something remarkable with us?

Let’s talk.

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