Our Mission and Approach

Our Unique Philosophy

At QuitStrong, we believe quitting smoking isn’t about willpower — it’s about healing what nicotine has been doing to your body, mind, and spirit. With decades of nursing experience in smoking cessation, we focus on long‑term freedom, not quick fixes.

Our coaching blends compassionate support with proven, evidence‑based strategies to help you quit naturally, rebuild with clarity, and stay smokefree for life.

We’ve walked this journey ourselves, and we know every person’s relationship with nicotine is different. That’s why our support is personal, non‑judgmental, and designed to care for the whole you — not just the habit. Your story matters. Your freedom matters. And we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

Our philosophy is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves compassionate, whole-person care—not just treatment for a habit, but healing for the human behind it.

MEET THE FOUNDER & CEO

Hey, I'm Sue!

Lead Smoking Cessation Specialist

Sue the is the creator of The Smokefree System: Taking Back Control—an innovative, evidence-based program endorsed by the Aotearoa New Zealand College of Nurses and the National Heart Foundation. As a Smoking Cessation Consultant, Sue has supported thousands in quitting smoking, trained healthcare professionals, and helped shape smokefree hospital policies nationwide. Her approach ensures not just quitting, but long-term relapse prevention.

Having overcome her own addiction to smoking, Sue brings deep empathy and lived insight to her work. Her decades of clinical experience and personal recovery journey combine to offer a compassionate, practical path to lasting change.

With Sue’s guidance, you won’t just quit—you’ll gain the tools, confidence, and clarity to stay smokefree for life. It’s time to take back control and embrace a healthier future.

Some pics from Sue...dogs, family, cool stuff

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MEET THE support staff

Hey, I'm Kipa!

Administrative Support Specialist

Having broken free from smoking in the early 2000s, Kipa brings more than technical expertise to our team. His personal experience with nicotine addiction and long-term success story adds authentic understanding to everything he does.

Role & Responsibilities

Kipa provides essential technical and creative support to our programs. He handles all tech support needs, designs and maintains our website, and serves as editorial reviewer for The Smokefree System publications, ensuring accuracy and consistency across our smokefree materials. His technical expertise and attention to detail ensure our resources remain current, accessible, and professionally presented.

Professional Background

Kipa brings a unique blend of experience to our team. With 10 years as a primary school teacher, he developed exceptional organizational skills, patience, and the ability to explain complex concepts clearly. His six years as a medical warehouse operator gave him valuable healthcare sector experience and understanding of medical protocols. His years as a stay-at-home dad have honed his multitasking abilities and deep understanding of life's challenges.

Personal Connection to the Mission

Having successfully quit smoking himself using similar steps to The Smokefree System over 20 years ago, Kipa brings genuine understanding of the challenges involved in breaking free from nicotine addiction. His long-term success demonstrates that lasting change is possible and reinforces his commitment to supporting others on their smokefree journey. His teaching background gives him a natural affinity for helping people learn new skills and overcome challenges.

Personal Qualities

Kipa brings patience, reliability, and strong organizational skills to our team. His teaching experience has given him excellent communication abilities and cultural awareness. Married with four children, Kipa manages a busy household that includes five horses, two cats, a dog, and some fish - demonstrating his exceptional organizational abilities and commitment to caring for others. As someone who has maintained a smokefree lifestyle for over two decades, he embodies the long-term success that clients aspire to achieve.

Team Dynamic

Working alongside Sue, Kipa has become an integral part of our mission. His diverse background, proven smoking cessation success, and commitment to supporting people on their smokefree journey makes him a valued team member who contributes significantly to our program's success.