The Nugget: Stephen Smith

Stephen Smith is a pretty relaxed guy. Fairly ironic given he’s got a wee bit going on in his life. As CEO of travel recovery drink company 1 Above, he’s super busy - right now he’s in the middle of adding a new everyday natural recovery variant to his stable of beverages - to be available everywhere shortly.

But what keeps him going and staying chilled - apart from his drinks of course - is a passion to create a successful Kiwi company that competes globally, and helps bring wellness to those with busy lives.

He’s thriving on the culture of a start-up, after 18 years in the corporate scene, especially his diverse team who bring different perspectives from all over the world - not to mention interesting lunch options which he often helps himself to.

Stephen loves 3 Wise Men kit for the same reason he loves 1 Above - it makes him feel good. He’s particularly digging the 100% wool, olive and mid-blue checked Carter blazer - $400, the Airforce blue Shortland pant - $120 and the 100% cotton, Royal blue, gingham Cormack shirt - $120, he’s sporting here.

Stephen also likes that our gear comes in all cuts and sizes for kiwis of all cuts and sizes, including his own self-described ‘keg-like’ form. He’s probably being a bit hard on himself - mind you, his mates have confirmed that he averages two upper body sessions for every legs’ session completed at the gym.

Away from work he hangs out with his wife, two children and cat Sparkles, as well as staying fit. While he lists his career sporting highlight as being the shortest-ever captain of his school basketball team, these days he gets his kicks going sideways, either snowboarding, or surfing. He’s trying to resist going to a longboard and instead has settled for the beautifully named ‘Sumo’ board, at a “manageable 7'6", but with heaps of volume to slay those three-foot East coast Monsters”, he loves testing himself in. Yep, in play, as in work, Stephen has a thirst for life. Here’s a bit more to drink in about him.