The Big Yarn

In this episode of The Big Yarn Podcast, we're sitting down with the founder of Screw U Poles to talk about his incredible journey from being a ski bum living in a van to a purpose-driven entrepreneur.We dive into the origin story of his nickname "Shovel Gunzy," the old-school rivalry between skiers and snowboarders that sparked a unique product idea, and the philosophy behind building a brand that's all about inspiring people to live life to the fullest. This conversation is packed with stories about embracing challenges, the importance of community, and how to build confidence by achieving small, consistent goals.Check out Screw U Poles: https://screwupoles.co.nz/Use code FREESHIP for free shipping! Follow The Big Yarn on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/#TheBigYarn #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #Skiing #Snowboarding #Motivation

In this video, I'm diving deep into the core principles of personal growth and success. We'll explore how the energy you project shapes your reality, and why cultivating a positive mindset is non-negotiable for achieving your goals. I'll also share my personal insights on the difference between real and fake friends, and how to build unshakeable confidence that empowers you to rise above negativity and inspire others.If you're ready to stop letting external forces dictate your life and start harnessing your inner power, this video is for you. We'll cover:- The Law of Attraction in Action: How your energy and mindset directly influence your outcomes.- Finding Your Drive: The key to unlocking relentless self-motivation and becoming an unstoppable force.- The Company You Keep: Why your circle of friends is a critical factor in your success.- Beyond Cockiness: Building genuine confidence through action and experience.Watch now to take the first step towards a more empowered and fulfilling life.Follow The Big Yarn on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/#PersonalGrowth #SelfMotivation #Mindset #PositiveEnergy #Confidence

While away on a recent hunt down south I sat down with Jason Beacham and Richard Barnett (aka Temu Wilds) to yarn about the hunt so far and what we had experienced so far. We were a bit defeated after a long unsuccessful day on the hill, but still just stoked to be out there doing it!Make sure you follow The Big Yarn on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/And don't forget to subscribe, like and follow if you enjoy the Podcast!

In this episode of The Big Yarn Podcast, we're joined by Tristan Corbett, the founder of the New Zealand hunting app, Hunt Mate.Tristan shares his incredible life story, from growing up with a passion for the outdoors to his time in the army, working in the gold mines, and the personal challenges he overcame along the way. He talks about the inspiration behind Hunt Mate and his mission to create a comprehensive tool to help Kiwi hunters plan, learn, and be safer in the bush.We also dive deep into some important topics in the hunting community, including online toxicity, the future of hunting in New Zealand, conservation, and a powerful, honest conversation about mental health.In this episode, we discuss:[01:19] Tristan's early life and introduction to hunting in the Blue Mountains.[05:39] His career in the NZ Army and the skills that transferred to hunting.[11:18] The personal challenges of divorce and life after the military.[17:59] Working in the McCrae's gold mine and finding his soulmate.[38:00] The "lightbulb moment" that led to the creation of the Hunt Mate app.[46:37] A full breakdown of the features inside Hunt Mate.[01:00:06] The importance of hunting ethics and supporting new hunters.[01:05:37] Debating the "pest" label and the future of deer in New Zealand.[01:59:09] A crucial conversation about mental health in the hunting community.This is an episode packed with great stories and important conversations you won't want to miss.#HuntingPodcast #NewZealandHunting #HuntMate #Tahr #RedStagFollow on Instagram for more short form content:https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/Check out Tristan's HuntMate app below: https://www.huntmate.co.nz/And make sure you give him a follow on instagram:https://www.instagram.com/huntmatenz/We made our first milestone team, episode 10!! Thanks so much to everyone who has listened so far and I hope you have gained something positive from the episodes, plenty more to come.Remember if you enjoy these episodes follow The Big Yarn on all platforms and leave a rating or a like.

Welcome to the first episode of "Brain Farts," a new series where I get to share my unfiltered thoughts on life, the universe, and everything in between. In this episode, I'm diving into a few topics that have been on my mind lately.Join me as I discuss my perspective on New Zealand and why I think more Kiwis need to travel, my experience as a full-time dad and why I believe more men should embrace it, and my attempt to understand why some people just seem to be angry all the time.In this episode, I discuss:[01:42] New Zealand & Immigration: A Kiwi's perspective on why our country is so great.[11:48] Being a Full-Time Dad: My journey into fatherhood and challenging traditional gender roles.[02:23:04] The "Angry People" Phenomenon: A reflection on negativity and finding perspective in life.This is a new format for me, and I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!#Podcast #NewZealand #Fatherhood #Mindset #PersonalGrowthDon't forget to leave a rating if you enjoy the podcast.Remember to follow The Big yarn on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/

In this episode of The Big Yarn Podcast, we're joined by a true "Ambassador of Stoke," Ted Suurkivi. Ted is a speed flyer, a new YouTube content creator, and someone with an incredible perspective on living life to the absolute fullest.We dive into the mental state of speed flying, the challenges and rewards of starting a YouTube channel, and have a deep conversation about personal growth, self-acceptance, and what it means to be a good human. Ted also shares his unique story of growing up in Soviet-era Estonia and how it shaped his outlook on life.In this episode, we discuss:[00:51] The Art of Speed Flying: Understanding the risk, fear, and "flow state."[09:42] Starting a YouTube Channel: The grind and the joy of content creation.[46:57] Living on Your Own Terms: Prioritizing experiences over materialism.[57:35] A Conversation on Parenting: The shift from living for yourself to living for your children.[01:01:34] The Transformative Power of Travel: How leaving home at 23 changed everything.[02:11:59] Growing up in the Soviet Union: A unique upbringing and the practical skills it taught.[01:28:46] The Importance of Personal Growth and Spreading Positivity.This is a powerful conversation about chasing your passions and building a life filled with adventure and authenticity.#Podcast #SpeedFlying #Adventure #PersonalGrowth #NewZealandCheck out Teds platforms below:https://www.youtube.com/@TedStoneAdventurehttps://www.instagram.com/adventureteet/Don't forget to give The Big Yarn a rating if you enjoy these episodes and follow on Instagram below:https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/

In this episode of The Big Yarn Podcast, we're sitting down with Dane Harris, the founder of the Kiwi snowboard brand, Powder Hunter.Dane shares his incredible journey, from living and working in the powder capital of Japan to pivoting during the pandemic and starting his own snowboard company from the ground up. We talk about the challenges of manufacturing, the passion for design, and his vision for creating a truly New Zealand-focused snowboard brand.In this episode, we discuss:[01:09] Living the Dream: The reality of the snow seasons in Japan.[25:49] The Birth of a Brand: How COVID-19 led to the creation of Powder Hunter Snowboards.[37:10] The Challenges of Manufacturing: Finding a factory for small-batch, high-quality boards.[41:07] Design Philosophy: Building durable boards for the intermediate rider.[52:42] The New 2025 Lineup: A look at the new boards featuring incredible art from a local Wanaka artist.[01:09:39] The Importance of Supporting Local: A conversation about Kiwi-made and Kiwi-owned businesses.If you love snowboarding or are inspired by stories of Kiwi entrepreneurship, you won't want to miss this one.#Snowboarding #NewZealand #SupportLocal #Entrepreneurship #PodcastInstagram below:https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/Check out Powder Hunter below: https://powderhuntersnowboards.com/https://www.instagram.com/powderhuntersnowboards/https://www.facebook.com/PowderHunter.co.nzRemember to follow and leave a rating if you enjoy these episodes, also follow The Big yarn on Instagram below:https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/

Crack a beer and pull up a chair for a special "hunt camp" episode of the podcast. We're fresh out of the backcountry after an epic and challenging week chasing red stags during the roar, and we're here to tell the tales.Join Jason, Richard aka Temu and Lennon as we recount the highs, the lows, the one that got away, and the hard-earned successes from our recent New Zealand hunting adventure.In this episode, we share the stories of:[03:27] The 1-in-100 odds of drawing this hunting block.[05:50] Jason's first big game animal in 30 years - a 12-point red stag![01:39] Calling in a roaring "Chicago Red" 12-pointer in the rain.[01:09] The chaotic and unforgettable encounter with a bull tahr in the riverbed.[01:17] When two worlds collide: meeting "purist" trampers on the trail.[03:00] Filling the freezer with meat animals on the last day.This is a raw and unfiltered recap of what it's really like on a demanding backcountry hunt in New Zealand.#HuntingPodcast #NewZealandHunting #RedStag #TahrHunting #Backcountry

In this episode of The Big Yarn Podcast, we're catching up with Joel Yukich, a hunter, fisherman, and content creator who is living a truly unique life on the remote Chatham Islands.Joel shares what it's really like to live and work in one of New Zealand's most isolated communities. We talk about his job on a commercial crayfishing boat, the incredible hunting and gathering opportunities (including the local delicacy, Weka!), and his passion for cooking and sharing wild food through his platform, "Blokes Can Cook Too."In this episode, we discuss:[02:53] Moving to the Chatham Islands and the unique lifestyle.[06:28] Hunting Weka: What do they taste like?[18:33] The intense reality of working as a commercial crayfisherman.[30:35] Joel's upbringing in Tokoroa and the challenges he faced.[52:52] The story behind his cooking platform, "Bles Can Cook Too."[01:21:08] His role as the community gardener.[01:42:29] A raw and honest conversation about parenting and life's challenges.This is a story about forging your own path and living off the land in one of the wildest corners of New Zealand.#ChathamIslands #HuntingNZ #Crayfishing #Podcast #NewZealandCheck Joels content out at the links below:https://www.instagram.com/blokescancooktoo/https://www.facebook.com/Blokescancooktoohttps://www.youtube.com/@blokescancooktooDon't forget to like and subscribe if you enjoy these yarns and also follow The Big Yarn on instagram too:https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/

In this episode of The Big Yarn Podcast, we are honored to be joined by Movember Ambassador, Jack Newman.Jack shares his incredible and inspiring story of personal transformation. Following his father's cancer diagnosis, Jack made the decision to overhaul his own health, which led him on a path of running, sobriety, and becoming a powerful advocate for men's mental health. He opens up about his own struggles, the power of vulnerability, and his journey to completing ultra-marathons.In this episode, we discuss:[02:35] The Catalyst for Change: How a family health crisis sparked a personal transformation.[04:56] The First Challenge: Committing to five half-marathons and a 60km ultra-marathon.[06:49] The Decision to Get Sober: The "just for today" approach to sobriety.[14:38] Opening Up: Sharing his own mental health story for the first time.[24:40] The 24-Hour Run: The symbolism and community behind running 137km on a track.[27:22] Training as a "Bigger Bloke": Breaking the stereotypes of endurance runners.[49:54] The Importance of Vulnerability: Changing the conversation around men's mental health.This is a raw, honest, and deeply inspiring conversation that everyone needs to hear.#MentalHealth #Movember #Sobriety #UltraMarathon #InspirationRemember to follow The Big Yarn on instagram! https://www.instagram.com/thebigyarnpodcast/

In this episode of The Big Yarn Podcast, we're joined by Michael Richardson, a man with a truly remarkable life story.Michael takes us on a journey from his upbringing in a musical family in Sydney to spending 17 years in California pursuing music and a career in building automation. He opens up about personal challenges, the cultural shift of moving to New Zealand, and the realities of raising a child with autism. We also talk about his decision to start his own HVAC business, Capital and Coast, and his philosophy on work-life balance.In this episode, we discuss:[01:01] Growing up in Sydney and learning music in his dad's recording studio.[02:28] 17 years in California: The pursuit of music and a career in a high-tech trade.[23:13] Overcoming personal challenges and the loss of his mother.[01:13:09] The big move to New Zealand and starting a new life in Wellington.[01:35:50] A father's journey: The challenges and triumphs of raising a daughter with autism.[01:49:06] Starting a business: The story behind Capital and Coast HVAC.[02:03:03] Reflections on being present for your family and the importance of open communication.This is a powerful and honest conversation about navigating life's unexpected turns and finding your own definition of success.#Podcast #LifeStory #NewZealand #Tradesman #AutismAwarenessCheck out Michaels company at https://capitalcoasthvac.co.nz/

In this episode of The Big Yarn Podcast, we're joined by Troy Spiers, the founder of the innovative Kiwi brand, Lead Head NZ.Troy shares his powerful and raw story of growing up in a tough part of Wellington, being raised by his dad, and the heartbreaking loss that ultimately led to a complete life change. He explains how a simple problem on the job site sparked a genius idea and how he built a community-focused brand from the ground up, all while navigating his own mental health journey.In this episode, we discuss:[03:32] Troy's unique and challenging childhood in Titahi Bay.[01:09:09] Dealing with grief, loss, and the decision to leave the building trade.[01:45:12] The "aha!" moment: The simple invention that solved a daily problem for tradies.[01:47:09] The journey of building the Lead Head NZ brand and community.[01:59:52] The future of the brand and the importance of supporting local.[01:08:52] An honest conversation about mental health and overcoming adversity.This is a story of resilience, innovation, and the power of community you won't want to miss.#Podcast #LeadHeadNZ #Entrepreneurship #MentalHealth #NewZealandCheck his hats out at www.leadheadnz.com#podcast #newzealand #nzpodcastCheck his hats out at www.leadheadnz.com

Welcome to the very first episode of The Big Yarn Podcast. Before we dive into conversations with incredible guests, I wanted to share my own story with you all. This is the story of how I got here, the highs and the lows, and the "why" behind starting this podcast.Join me as I take you on a journey from growing up in the isolated New Zealand bush with no electricity to the wild years in Australia, hitting rock bottom, and the journey back to building a life I'm truly proud of. My hope is that by sharing my story, it might inspire someone else to chase their dreams and overcome their own challenges.In this episode, I share my story:[03:14] Growing up as a "bush kid" in the Hokianga.[06:49] The culture shock of moving to the city.[10:42] Teenage years, getting into trouble, and the court case that changed everything.[22:42] Moving to Australia at 18 for a fresh start.[31:03] Hitting rock bottom: a period of homelessness on the Gold Coast.[37:27] Meeting my wife and the turning point in my life.[55:09] The "calling" to move back to New Zealand to raise a family.[01:10:55] A raw and honest account of dealing with recent trauma, grief, and mental health.Thank you for listening and for being a part of this journey from the very beginning.#Podcast #LifeStory #NewZealand #MentalHealth #InspirationFollow The Big Yarn on instagram:InstagramCheers