The Guest Speaker

Nathan Wallis has become one of Aotearoa’s most trusted voices on how kids’ brains work — not because he talks at people, but because he translates complex neuroscience into language that feels human, doable, and kind. In this episode, Nathan takes us behind the “neuroscience educator” title and back to a childhood marked by chaos, ADHD, and moving in and out of safe homes — where school wasn’t just education, it was refuge. He opens up about the teachers who saw his potential before he could, the small-town relationships that held him, and why the adults who “don’t quit on kids” can literally change a life’s trajectory.From there, we go deep on the biology of learning: why stress overrides literacy every time, why relationship is the foundation (the dyad) that humans are wired for, and how schools can shift from punishment to restorative practice in ways that actually grow empathy and regulation — especially for the kids carrying trauma. Nathan also challenges the obsession with grades and “career certainty,” arguing that dispositions, identity, and character are what shape long-term outcomes (and that teenagers are at their most creative when we’re often pressuring them to be the most linear).It’s equal parts practical and perspective-shifting — the kind of conversation that makes educators feel seen, parents feel less alone, and students feel like their future isn’t decided by one report card.

Ellen Butler’s story begins on the Coromandel Peninsula, where a childhood filled with surf lifesaving, sport, and community shaped the social, confident foundation she would later take into the world of superyachts. In this episode, Ellen traces her winding path from “top end of average” student to flight-attendant hopeful, to au pair in Sydney and France, and finally to a 90-metre Russian-owned superyacht that would launch a seven-and-a-half-year global career. She explains the realities behind the glossy Instagram version of yachting: intense service standards, 12–14 hour days, owners who may never speak to you, the pressure of living at work, and the moments of magic that still take your breath away. Along the way, she breaks down pay, training, safety, seasickness, and why personality - not just qualifications - opens doors.Now back home, Ellen teaches at the New Zealand Superyacht Academy and co-runs Coromandel Weddings, translating seven-star service into unforgettable events. Her biggest message for young people? You don’t need to have life figured out at eighteen. Yachting can be a six-month adventure or a full career - what matters is going in prepared, aware, and confident in your own skills. This conversation is an honest, warm, and rare window into an industry many Kiwi teens dream about but few truly understand.#superyachts #careers #podcast #newzealand

From top-of-the-class student to front-line social worker, Clare Ennis has quietly built a career around something you’ll never see on a pay slip: dignity, advocacy, and deeply human care. In this episode, Clare traces her path from high-achieving “you-could-be-a-doctor” teen to working with young parents, students, and communities with high and complex needs.We talk about what it was really like growing up with academic excellence as “the norm,” the pressure to choose prestige careers like medicine or law, and why chemistry became the early red flag that something wasn’t lining up. Clare walks us through her gap year teaching English in Poland at seventeen, working at New World, and drifting through a BA in Wellington—nannying, fundraising at the children’s hospital, and realising she was pouring energy into everything except uni. Volunteering at Youthline becomes a turning point: she learns to listen, sits on the phones with young people in crisis, starts training new volunteers, and even meets her future husband there.Finally, Clare reflects on boundaries, burnout, and why “caring a lot” is both her superpower and her ongoing challenge. She shares the importance of supervision and support networks, and the difference between “hard but right” work and the kind of misalignment that’s a sign you should quit. Her advice to her Year 12 self, and to any student who feels the weight of expectation or suspects they’re built for something more people-focused than pay-focused, is simple and powerful: learn about yourself, follow your values, don’t be afraid to leave what’s not working, and don’t overlook social work. The complexity, impact, and meaning are immense.#socialwork #career #podcast #newzealand

Mitchell Lamb went from Cambridge classrooms and water polo training to rafting some of the world’s wildest rivers, and now helps teenagers turn whitewater into a way of life. In this episode, Mitchell traces his journey from “relatively academic kid” to Program Director at World Class Academy, a travelling high school for adventure athletes that treats rivers, trails, and cultures as the curriculum.We talk about his decision to skip the straight-to-uni conveyor belt and head to Tai Poutini Polytechnic on the West Coast, where two years of outdoor ed, 10-day bush trips, and full-immersion learning fast-tracked his maturity in ways a lecture theatre never could. Mitchell breaks down what those programs actually involve—costs, study load, the gear, the lifestyle—and how that diploma led to raft-guiding seasons in Turangi, California, Canada, and ultimately to the famous Kaituna River.Mitchell also lifts the curtain on World Class Academy: a US-accredited high school that moves through Canada, New Zealand, South America, Europe & more while students spend their mornings in small-group classes, then hit whitewater every afternoon. We dive into safety, risk and resilience, what it’s really like to be “on” 24/7 as a teacher–guide–mentor, and how he navigates deep relationships with students who may see him as coach, big brother, and sometimes stand-in parent.Finally, Mitchell reflects on what all this means for life after World Class - how you turn a love of rivers into a sustainable career, why outdoor ed still matters in a tech-saturated world, and the advice he’d give his Year 12–13 self (and any student who feels more at home on a rock ledge or in a kayak than behind a desk): follow the opportunities that light you up, jump in headfirst, and trust that something good will come from backing what you love.Thanks Lamb!! Enjoy everyone!

From a small-town childhood to founding The Darling Room, Victoria Toye opens up about her work behind building a people-first beauty practice: education, empathy, and emotional intelligence. She traces the early spark that led her into beauty therapy, the science that underpins her treatments, and the quiet confidence she cultivated to take up space in the industry. We dive into holistic care as a lens for healing, the power of listening deeply to clients, and the belief system that guides her decisions. Victoria shares how trusting her instincts, asking questions, and challenging workplace norms became defining moments in her career progression. She also speaks candidly about the courage it takes to run a business built on care: balancing client needs, professional standards, and the emotional labour that comes with supporting people through their skin journeys. Her philosophy is anchored in empowerment. Above techniques and treatments, Victoria’s proudest achievement is the way she shows up: with empathy, integrity, and a belief in holistic well-being - proof that beauty therapy is as much about who you are as what you do.Enjoy this brilliant episode & prepare to learn a lot about what it takes to thrive as a Beauty Therapist!

From “class clown” to Officer of the NZ Order of Merit, Dai Henwood opens up about the real work behind making people laugh: curiosity, grit, and character. He traces the spark from Wellington College to Victoria University, the moment he realized he was a comedian, and the work ethic he learned watching his parents. We dive into people skills as a superpower, saying yes to scary opportunities, and the women who’ve backed him at every step.Dai also shares his candid philosophy while living with stage-four cancer—why he waited two years to go public, how to feel emotions rather than outrun them, and the mantra that keeps him grounded: “Optimism won’t cure me, but pessimism will kill me.”Above accolades and TV gigs, Dai’s proudest achievement is the person he’s become as a husband and father—proof that success is who you are, not what you have.It’s truly a gift to share this episode with Dai Henwood on The Guest Speaker.

In this episode, we dive into the world of surfboard shaping with Lou Aitken — where creativity, craftsmanship, and a love for the ocean collide. Lou shares her journey of discovering a passion for board building, sparked by family influence and hands-on experiences in the surfboard factory.From touring workshops as a kid to building their very first shortboard, this story captures the excitement of turning curiosity into craft. What began as fascination soon became a lifelong pursuit — a blend of design, precision, and the deep satisfaction that comes from working with your hands.We explore the connection between surfing and shaping — how riding the waves fuels the creative process, and how every board built is a reflection of both art and adventure. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best careers start not from a plan, but from a spark.Whether you’re drawn to design, the trades, or just love hearing about people who create with passion, this episode will leave you inspired to turn what you love into what you do.

In this episode, we sit down with Monique Brownlee, a radiographer whose career offers a behind-the-scenes look at how medical imaging brings healthcare to life. Monique breaks down the difference between radiographers—the professionals who capture images—and radiologists, the doctors who interpret them. From high-tech imaging rooms to real-world patient care, she explains how teamwork, precision, and trust form the backbone of this essential medical field.Monique also sheds light on the humanity within the job, offering students and listeners an engaging peek into a role that blends science, technology, and compassion. Whether you’re curious about healthcare careers or just want to understand what really happens behind an X-ray, this episode reveals the art and impact of medical imaging.00:00 Introduction & Monique’s Path into Medical Imaging00:31 What Radiographers Really Do06:45 Working Alongside Radiologists12:20 The Role of Imaging in Patient Care17:00 Advice for Students Considering Healthcare Careers

In this episode, we sit down with Mya Dunsmore, a dedicated nurse whose journey offers an inside look into one of the most essential — and often underappreciated — professions in the world. From her first steps into nursing school to the challenges of long shifts and the deep rewards of patient care, Mya shares what it really takes to thrive in healthcare.She talks about the social nature of nursing, the importance of hands-on training, and how resilience becomes second nature when facing difficult moments. Mya also reflects on the educational pathways that led her here, the endless career opportunities within nursing, and the personal lessons she’s learned along the way.Whether you’re a student considering healthcare, a current nursing trainee, or simply curious about what it means to devote your life to helping others, this conversation is an inspiring reminder that nursing is as much about heart as it is about skill.🩺 Key TakeawaysNursing is an essential and deeply human profession.Education and practical training form the backbone of a successful nursing career.Social connection and communication are at the heart of good care.Flexibility and resilience are key to managing shift work and emotional demands.The nursing field offers diverse global opportunities and specializations.Passion and purpose are what sustain nurses through challenges and change.🕰️ Chapters00:00 — Discovering a Passion for Nursing02:48 — Education, Training, and Early Inspiration05:56 — Choosing Nursing as a Career Path09:03 — Real-World Experience: Clinicals and First Impressions12:02 — Challenges and Rewards in Healthcare18:06 — Life on Shifts: Balance, Routine, and Resilience23:57 — The Future of Nursing and Career Growth29:49 — Advice for Aspiring Nurses36:03 — Final Reflections and Gratitude

In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Davies-Colley, a Speech-Language Therapist and Audiologist who bridges the worlds of communication and hearing health. From helping children find their voice to supporting adults through hearing loss, Rebecca shares how her work transforms lives through understanding, connection, and care.She takes us through her academic journey—from university lectures to hands-on clinical placements—and unpacks what it’s really like to work in speech therapy and audiology. Rebecca discusses the importance of communication at every stage of life, the growing demand for professionals in the field, and why protecting our hearing is something everyone should take seriously.Reflecting on career pivots, personal growth, and work-life balance in healthcare, she offers grounded advice for students exploring pathways in health sciences. Whether you’re curious about communication disorders, passionate about helping others, or figuring out your next step in education, this conversation provides thoughtful insights into building a meaningful and adaptable career.📝 Chapters00:00 Reconnecting & Reflecting on the Past02:47 Career Pathways in Speech & Language Therapy05:52 University Journey & Specialisation08:53 High School Decisions & Academic Choices11:48 Choosing Speech & Language Therapy14:49 Inside the SLT Programme Structure17:57 What Speech Therapists Actually Do20:56 Accessing Therapy Services in NZ24:05 Communication Styles & Challenges26:50 Transitioning into Audiology29:56 The Role of Audiologists in Healthcare32:54 Hearing Loss & Its Impact on Life35:49 The Importance of Ear Protection38:57 Career Earnings & Work-Life Balance41:47 Advice for Aspiring Speech & Hearing Professionals44:38 Final Thoughts & Reflections

In this episode, we sit down with Micah Wilkinson, an Olympic Bronze Medalist sailor representing New Zealand who has turned the art of racing under pressure into lessons on mindset, teamwork, and growth. Competing on the world stage, Micah shares what it takes to make high-stakes decisions in seconds, how he builds mental resilience on and off the water, and the habits that keep him performing at his best.He opens up about his journey through New Zealand’s youth sailing pathways, the importance of outdoor education in shaping young athletes, and the psychological tools that help him reset after setbacks. From split-second decision-making to team communication and self-belief, Micah offers real-world insights into performance psychology that extend far beyond sport.Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a student navigating pressure, or simply curious about what it takes to reach the Olympic level, this conversation offers powerful lessons in focus, adaptability, and personal growth.📝 Chapters00:00 Growing Up in Aotearoa & Discovering Sailing05:18 Pathways from Youth Sailing to the Olympic Stage11:42 Decision-Making Under Pressure17:35 Building Mental Resilience & Reset Routines23:20 Working with Coaches & Sport Psychologists29:04 The Importance of Outdoor Education34:48 Team Dynamics & Communication on the Water40:55 Applying Performance Psychology Beyond Sport46:10 Reflections, Advice & Future Goals

In this episode, we sit down with Nick Putt, a vineyard manager at Craggy Range Vineyard—one of New Zealand’s most iconic family-owned wineries. Located in Hawke’s Bay beneath the striking Te Mata Peak, Craggy Range is renowned for its terroir-driven wines, world-class sustainability practices, and stunning scenery.Nick shares his journey from navigating high school pressures to studying horticulture at Massey University and building a career in viticulture. He takes us behind the scenes of vineyard life at Craggy Range—from the annual cycle of vineyard management and the challenges of the industry to the innovations driving sustainability. He also offers candid advice for students considering similar career paths and reflects on the importance of adaptability, people skills, and following your interests.Whether you’re curious about the wine industry, exploring career pathways, or simply enjoy hearing inspiring career stories, this conversation uncorks valuable insights into education, adaptability, and personal growth.📝 Chapters00:00 Navigating High School Pressures05:26 Educational Journey and Career Pathways10:13 Experiences at Massey University19:25 Internships and Early Career Development22:41 The Importance of People Skills24:42 Understanding the Wine Industry27:59 Annual Cycle of Vineyard Management34:25 Dealing with Seasonal Challenges37:27 Innovations in Viticulture42:44 Environmental Considerations in Viticulture49:55 Career Reflections and Advice

From his school days in New Zealand to studying at the University of Canterbury and now building a life and career in Canada, Ben Hawken shares his path to becoming a structural engineer. In this conversation, he opens up about his time at UC — from lectures to labs to building a supportive community — and how those experiences shaped his career and outlook on life. Ben also reflects on the versatility of an engineering degree, outdoor adventures, and the lessons learned along the way.00:00 From School Days to Engineering Dreams02:54 Studying at the University of Canterbury06:05 The Journey of Becoming an Engineer08:45 Life as a Structural Engineer11:37 The Importance of Community at UC and Beyond14:45 Experiences in Canada and Career Opportunities17:42 Future Aspirations and Life Lessons

From school’s easy routine to the rigorous world of the Defence Force, Taylor Ede has been on a journey of challenge, growth, and unexpected opportunities. In this episode, Taylor shares how she went from weighing her next steps after graduation to enlisting in the Army, navigating extended basic training during COVID-19, and later transitioning into the Air Force.We talk about what it really takes to step into military life, from the physical and mental challenges of training to finding a career path in logistics, adapting to change, and carving out space as a young woman in a male-dominated environment. Taylor reflects on the resilience she’s built, the importance of female participation in the Forces, and the possibilities she sees for travel, leadership, and further study.Whether you’re a student curious about life beyond school, someone considering a career in the military, or simply interested in hearing a story of grit and adaptability, this conversation offers an honest look at the realities of service, the lessons it teaches, and the doors it can open.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 From School to the Forces06:03 Why Military Experience Mattered11:57 Inside Basic Training During COVID-1919:51 Discovering Logistics as a Career Path22:15 Transitioning from Army to Air Force29:46 Life on Base and Building Community38:25 Navigating Gender Dynamics46:24 Lessons in Resilience and Growth50:45 Future Aspirations and Opportunities

From high school’s high-pressure halls to the vibrant world of creative education, Holly Gascoigne has been on a journey of passion, perseverance, and pushing her own boundaries. In this episode, Holly opens up about navigating academic expectations, making the leap to university, and embracing the opportunities—and challenges—of studying abroad.We talk about what it really takes to pursue a creative career, from finding your “why” to funding your studies, building industry connections, and getting invaluable hands-on experience. Holly shares what she’s learned from halls of residence chaos, a design course full of autonomy, a transformative stint in Madrid, and creating her own book The Queen and the Bee.Whether you’re a student, aspiring creative, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of the creative industries, this conversation is packed with insights on following your passion, managing the financial realities of education, and carving your own path in a competitive field.💡 Takeaways:Passion drives persistence (and career success).Creative education opens diverse doors.Studying abroad is a game-changer for personal and professional growth.Your network is your net worth in creative industries.Financial management is just as important as creative skills.Real-world experience beats theory alone.Growth happens when you push past your comfort zone.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 Navigating High School Pressures04:17 The Journey to Creative Education09:16 Transitioning to University Life11:49 Experiences in Halls of Residence17:54 Funding Education and Managing Finances20:33 Exploring the Creative Design Course29:30 Studying Abroad: The Madrid Experience37:06 Creating The Queen and the Bee Book43:09 Career Path and Future Aspirations

From spinning tracks to spinning stories, Matt Hicks has always lived at the intersection of creativity and connection. In this episode, he takes us through his winding path in the entertainment industry - from a schoolboy with a passion for performance, to a DJ and event manager, to the filmmaker behind the feature film The Tavern.Matt opens up about the five-year journey of bringing The Tavern to life, the unique and community-driven marketing strategies that set it apart, and the challenges of making a film that truly resonates with audiences. We explore how collaboration, networking, and personal growth have shaped his creative process - and get a sneak peek into his aspirations for future projects, including heart-driven sports storytelling.If you love behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in creative perseverance, and the magic of bringing people together through art, this one’s for you.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🎧 How DJing & event management paved the way for filmmaking🍻 The five-year labour of love behind The Tavern📣 Creative grassroots marketing strategies that worked🤝 Why collaboration & community matter more than ever🏅 Matt’s vision for positive, uplifting sports storytelling

In this episode, drummer Felix Holton takes us behind the kit and into the heart of his music career — from realizing his passion for the drums at age 9 to touring the world with acclaimed New Zealand artist BENEE, playing stages like the O2 Arena in London and Coachella in California.Felix opens up about the realities of the music industry, the vital role of education, and the delicate balancing act between a demanding tour schedule and personal life. We talk about the perseverance, passion, and community support that fueled his rise, the lessons learned from performing at major venues, and why drummers are often the glue that holds a band together. Whether you’re an aspiring musician or just curious about life on the road, Felix’s insights on risk-taking, networking, and self-belief will inspire you to keep chasing your next step.💡 Episode Takeaways:Plan A mentality. Believe in yourself and your passion for music.The drummer’s role is essential to a band’s success.Education can shape and elevate musical growth.Balancing life and music takes intention and discipline.Networking is key to opportunities in the industry.A healthy lifestyle is critical for touring musicians.🔗 Follow Felix on Instagram: @felixholton#music #drummer #career #musician #drums #podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Megan Gray to unpack her journey from the whirlwind of high school to carving out a meaningful career in public service. Megan opens up about the pressures of academic achievement, navigating personal identity, and the mental health challenges that shaped her along the way.She shares how relationships - both inside and outside the classroom - became a grounding force during turbulent times, and why embracing failure was pivotal for her personal growth. From university life to finding her place in government work, Megan’s story is rich with lessons on resilience, authenticity, and pacing yourself through life’s marathon.We also explore her love of travel, reflections on living in Tasmania, and her advice for future generations on building connections that truly matter.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The hidden pressures of high school and how to navigate themWhy building strong relationships is vital for personal and professional growthThe role of mental health in shaping identity and resilienceHow to embrace failure as a stepping stone to successInsights into public service and contributing to your communityThe power of authenticity in attracting the right opportunitiesLife lessons from travel and living abroad"Life is a marathon, not a sprint."

This episode is a masterclass in wonder. We sit down with Mark Cairns, one of the UK’s top magicians and psychological mind readers, to unravel the fascinating journey that took him from a mathematics degree to captivating audiences with feats of mind-bending magic.Mark opens up about the twists and turns that shaped his career — from his early academic achievements to finding his way into the prestigious Magic Circle. He shares how neurodiversity has influenced his life and art, why asking for help can be a superpower, and the lessons he’s learned overcoming personal challenges, including bullying and alcohol abuse.You’ll hear:✨ The moment maths gave way to magic.✨ Behind-the-scenes insights into The Magic Circle.✨ How neurodiversity became a strength in his performances.✨ Raw, honest reflections on resilience and recovery.✨ Advice for aspiring magicians — and anyone chasing their passion.Whether you’re a magic enthusiast, a lover of inspiring stories, or just curious about the human mind, this conversation will leave you seeing the world with fresh eyes — and maybe a little more wonder.🎧 Tune in now for an unforgettable journey into the extraordinary mind of Mark Cairns.#Magic #MindReading #Neurodiversity #Inspiration

In this episode, we sit down with Gemma Lee - founder, designer, and former competitive swimmer - to dive into her journey from the pool to the world of women’s wetsuits. 🌊Gemma opens up about her high school years, the leap into fashion design, and how she turned a personal passion into a bold, beautiful brand. We chat about designing specifically for women, keeping things personal as you grow, and what it really takes to start something from scratch.Whether you're into sport, design, or just love a good entrepreneurial origin story - there’s plenty to soak up here.Take-home gems:Chase the doors that open - don’t wait for the “perfect” momentBuild something personal, and stay close to your “why”Design for the people you understand bestLearn, adapt, and keep evolving - especially in fashionFemale-focused design is more than a niche—it’s a need