Baskets Of Knowledge: Recent Episodes
Tane Whitehead & Prajesh Chhanabhai
Everyone has a story. With this podcast we have chats with people to speak about their story. From student to wherever they might be now. Each episode looks to share nuggets of knowledge that can be used by any of our listeners.
In our latest podcast episode, we had an incredible conversation with Crissy Sanders, a 21-year-old public health graduate who has experienced more in the last few years than most do in a lifetime.
Crissy shared her adventures working in Kiribati, a remote Pacific Island, and traveling solo through East Africa. She opened up about her philosophy of life—“Jump, don’t step”—embracing opportunities and pushing boundaries beyond comfort zones. Whether it was booking a last-minute trip to Africa or working with a women's refuge, Crissy emphasised that the biggest growth comes when you leap into the unknown.
Her passion for public health shined through in her work on infant nutrition in Kiribati. Crissy and her team’s efforts in educating mothers on nutrition and hygiene were a testament to the power of small, community-focused actions that create long-lasting impact.
What we loved most about our chat was Crissy’s genuine openness. From dealing with stray dogs during her morning runs to navigating scholarship rejections, her determination and resilience left a mark.
Her advice? Take the jump. Trust yourself to figure things out as you go, because the rewards often lie beyond the fear.
Curious to hear more? Tune in to the full episode on Baskets of Knowledge podcast.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
This week we are really privileged to have Lori Thomson, a nursing student, who shares their candid and inspiring journey through personal challenges and academic pursuits. From battling eating disorders and societal expectations to excelling in clinical placements, this story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of human connection.
Lori candidly discusses experiences with anorexia nervosa, bipolar disorder, and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Lori shares how these challenges have impacted their life and how they found strength to overcome them.
Despite facing adversity, Lori found their true calling in nursing. Lori shares experiences in clinical placements, the importance of connecting with patients, and the rewarding moments that have shaped her career.
We also delve into other parts of Lori's story, one of them being the experiences of performing as a Drag King!
Whether you're a nursing student, healthcare professional, or simply looking for an inspiring story, Lori's journey will resonate with you.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
In this week's episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we spoke to Sanskruti Banerjee, a law and commerce student at the University of Auckland with a passion for problem-solving, advocacy, and creativity.
Sanskruti shared her journey of balancing multiple roles—from community work in mental health and sexual violence advocacy to her love for poetry and dance. Sanskriti discussed her involvement with Dear Em, a collective focused on supporting young women, and her leadership in various places where she worked to create opportunities for underrepresented students.
We spoke about the importance of South Asian representation and her efforts through the South Asian collective, Jhumka Journey.
Throughout the episode, we explored her experiences in various leadership roles, her pride in her cultural identity, and the challenges of balancing a busy life as a student and change-maker. Sanskruti also shared her thoughts on the value of pursuing passions, staying grounded, and the importance of guilt-free rest.
This episode highlights Sanskruti's journey of resilience, advocacy, and staying true to what drives her.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Recently, we had the honor of speaking with Zoe Dzapasi, an 18-year-old student at Victoria University of Wellington, who shared her incredible journey of growth, self-discovery, and advocacy. Despite moving to New Zealand from Zimbabwe at 18 months old, Zoe has maintained a strong connection to her roots while navigating the challenges of belonging in a new country.
During our conversation, Zoe opened up about encountering racism as a teen and how it shaped her view on identity and resilience. Her TED Talk, where she addressed the expectations placed on her as a black girl, became a powerful platform for expressing her experiences.
Zoe’s passion for storytelling doesn’t stop there—she founded the board game "Ngano," inspired by Zimbabwean folklore. She’s also part of Create Happy Media, a youth-driven content platform where collaboration and youth empowerment take center stage.
As a recent member of the Y25 cohort, Zoe continues to advocate for young girls, helping them find their voices and amplify their stories. Her journey is a reminder to all of us that the power of storytelling and believing in ourselves can create real change.
We all remember 2020, it was the year when everyone's lives changed. for some people it was terrible, for others they found a silver lining and for a majority it was OH NO!! Our guest this week found lock down a pivotal moment in his life. It was during lock down that Alex Witt decided to start running, this all came from the fact that he looked in the mirror and did not like what he saw.
Alex speaks to us this week about this journey, how it has changed him not just physically but his attitude to life. BUT we also touch on how Alex was lost, like most people, with what to do with his life when he was done with school. Time away working through some gap years and the love for running helped him on the path that he is on now.
This is a fabulous listen for ANYONE that thinks they can't make a change in their live. Alex's piece of knowledge will get you to rethink that way of thinking.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
A small project while she was at primary school was the catalyst to this week's guests foray into the world of entrepreneurship.
Abbie Wood talks to us about how creating and selling bracelets at her grannie's market was her first step into realising that she had a creative brain but also a mindset that would foster the idea of creating value through her own enterprise as she got older. We speak to Abbie about her company, Grow Easy, that she started as a project while at school and is still running today and how that has been a success through the help of her family, her mentors and just people that have been kind to her with both time and advice.
We delve into her idea for the Together Collective, another creation that Abbie wanted to bring to life to highlight the talents of creative young people in a centralised platform. Amongst this we also speak about being student, the reality of being away from home and capturing the essence of traversing all the worlds that Abbie lives in.
Abbie leaves us all with a beautiful piece of knowledge which will get you all thinking!
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
When you think about young people, you think about young people in class studying, playing sports, hanging with friends, having fun....our guest this week does all that AND is also running an entrepreneurial venture that is shaking up the sustainability world.
Elisa Harley, our guest this week speaks to us passionately about her business idea, how it came about, where it is now and what the future may hold. In this chat we learn about the amazing opportunities through networking and just asking strangers for help has led to. We also pick up the importance of having a tribe of people around you that are experts in various fields to help you grow.
Elisa, also speaks to us about the reality of being a final year high school student, navigating that balancing act and the reality of burnout. This conversation is filled with so much energy and real talk. We know you will all get something from it.
Look out for Elisa's Enivo Pots at a plant nursery near you soon!
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Game on! Meet our next guest, Zeena Khan: Leader, Speaker & Author.
Zeena is a dynamic individual of Chinese, Fijian, and Indian descent, from South Auckland she moved to Wellington 5yrs ago, seeking adventure & opportunity to lean in with curiosity.
A champion of lifelong learning with a multifaceted background, Zeena also has an artistic side, having published her first poetry book in 2020, which helped her through challenging times.
In this podcast, Zeena reflects on her passion for empowering others, why she typed emails in CAPITAL (letters) early in her leadership career, and the powerful impact a quote from her late father went onto shape her life. We also delve in to just being yourself is the best gift you can give yourself!
Feel free to connect with Zee on LinkedIn or www.drivepdt.com
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
This week's guest is well known in Edutech for changing the face of education. A key learning from his mother when he was young has been instrumental in Jamie Beaton lifting the perceived barriers that young people have in New Zealand to be able to study in some of the Top Universities in North America.
In this really inspiring conversation we talk about what is the motivation for Jamie to keep studying while running a large global company. We look back to how Crimson Education started, its goal and how it has gone from strength to strength. We also talk about the challenges of disrupting the norm and embracing leadership as the company has grown.
Jamie also shares his passions with us, what he does in his down time and also why he wants to change the way education, especially in New Zealand, is delivered.
Once again another episode filled with wisdom, learnings and a few laughs.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Growing up, our guest this week thought that working in the health industry was what she was destined for. However, after one year of dabbling in this space, she pivoted from health to tech. This change opened up opportunities galore for our guest Magdeline Huang.
With her role as a software engineer now, Magdeline speaks to us about how delving into tech unlocked a whole new world for her. We also explore her love for content creation - how she took something that was a hobby to now creating amazing content on YouTube. One of her videos went viral which was something she did not expect! We talk about her winning idea at the Red Bull Basement University Competition, and her role with Asia New Zealand Foundation. There is a beautiful chat about the curation of her digital garden too which is amazing!
All in all this is an episode that is once again full of outstanding growth and wisdom.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Growing up in the tiny, yet populous, nation of Singapore our guest this week had no intention of leaving his home country to study. He comes from a family that is very closely connected and a country that seems to have it all (on first glance)
However, our guest this week talks to us about how his mindset changed has he went through National Service and engaged in conversations that got him thinking about more than just staying in Singapore. It is through these conversations and wisdom from his seniors and his family members Irfaan Ariffin decided to spread his wings and found himself studying in New Zealand.
This conversation is an epic tale of this journey but more about how Irfaan has used his time in New Zealand to very quickly realise the importance of advocacy and how by being involved, not just being a bystander, you can make an impact. We speak about his advocacy roles, we speak about his National Service time and also the motivation for his study.
We have a great chat about the love for politics and how this has led Irfaan to host a radio show called the Political Pulse where he has spoken to a number of MP's and local councillors about various issues.
Once again we end the episode with a beautiful piece of knowledge
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Have you ever wanted to know what you need to do to be successful?
On this week's episode we have Kale Panaho talk about how he fostered a success mindset to help him get to where he is now. In this conversation we touch on Kale's journey on his Māori identity, we speak about how it all started with Kale training to be a personal trainer, studying biochem then how his circle of influence led him down the past that he is navigating at the moment.
There are fantastic insights into Kale's simple habits that are non-negotiables to ensure that he turns up being the best version of himself everyday.
We both took away lots that we can implement into our daily lives, and we know you will as well!
Subscribe to Kale's newsletter for very easy to digest weekly tips https://themethod.beehiiv.com/
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
On this week's episode we are treated to Shaniyah Munroe sharing her story with us.
As someone that realised that she was academically able, she was worried about the cost of attending University. However, Shaniyah talks to us about how a scholarship from Victoria University of Wellington and First Foundation changed her life trajectory. We speak about the impact that her mentor had on her journey through her studies and how powerful that has been for her.
We also talk about how Shaniyah has navigated challenges as she embraced tertiary study. The reality of being in classrooms that were very different from Mana College. It is a fantastic conversation with lots of lightbulb moments. A special mention has to be made to Shaniyah's mother for being her inspiration allowing her to become the young person that she is.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
As we have just passed the shortest day in the year for the Southern Hemisphere the episode is a short reflection point where we share our learnings since the last episode but also a good time to reflect on the podcast and where each of us are right now.
We would LOVE for you to share your reflections as we head into the second half of the year.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Following the "normal" life trajectory is the way our guest this week was living her life as she looked to go to university to get a "normal" career. However, having picked up the sport of rowing late in her teenage years our guest received an offer out of the blue that presented her the opportunity to study in the United States on a rowing scholarship.
This week Grace Lewis talks to us about how this moment was the start of her many pivots that have seen her saying yes to opportunities that have presented themselves to her. BUT the key ingredient with each of these opportunities has been Grace's ability to pivot. From realising she might not be the physically strongest person on the rowing team to choosing to stay on in the United States to complete a Masters. Grace takes us through a pretty epic story so far.
We also talk about her fantastic podcast "Tall Poppy Talk". We delve into the Tall Poppy phenomena that many people from New Zealand seem to face. We explore that this is not a good thing or a bad thing but something to be aware of.
It is a fantastic chat, with lots of laughs, mind blowing learnings and two really fabulous lessons.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Growing up in Dunedin, New Zealand our guest this week speaks about the importance that his whanau/family has had in his life. This became more evident as Nick Parata started to explore, learn and embrace his Māori identity.
We speak about how this was and has not always been an easy exploration especially as humans use outward appearances to make judgement calls about a person. A trait that we can all be guilty off. The early challenges Nick faced only further strengthen his resolve to not just embrace his heritage but to be proud of it. We talk about how this as influenced his study and research passions while having a laugh over a few stories.
We also talk about how Nick's involvement in hockey essentially started by just going along to weekend games to now being a representative player for a number of teams. The interesting thread through these endeavours is once again tied to his Māori identity.
This is a fun conversation with lots for us all to ponder about as we think about the world today.
Enjoy!
Prajesh and Tane
Growing up in india our guest this week would never in a million years think that he would be sitting in an office in New Zealand talking about the journey that has taken him halfway across the world.
This week Rakesh Banerjee talks to us about how growing up in india he had never thought that he would end up in New Zealand. His life story has many ups and downs has Rakesh relates the story about living, working and growing up in India. The opportunities that he took during that time opened up pathways and doors that he had not expected. With each one of those opportunities he learnt not only about himself but also more about the things that truly mattered to him both as a person and the area that he was passionate about.
We delve into his PhD research, where he echos the wise words that his supervisor gave him which allowed Rakesh to view his PhD with a different light. We also talk about the amazingly welcoming demeanour that Rakesh always seems to have.
This is a great conversation about reflection and remembering that it is all about the journey.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
The universe works in crazy ways! This week's guest happened to come on at the same time that the skies were being lit up around the world with the Aurora's and at the same time power companies around the world were warning customers about possible network outages. You might think what has this got to do with our guest? Well the inspirational Aleida Powell is someone who works in the power and energy sector! Coincidence or more...
We delve back to where this all started for Aleida, as a young woman that enjoyed the sciences there was an obvious (and often incorrect) thought that she should be an engineer. Aleida was not a fan of that idea but went to university with an open mind about sciences. it is here that she discovered the world of energy science and the rest as they say is history.
In this conversation Aleida gives us a really great perspective about EV's by explaining the science to debunk any myths. But more importantly we talk about Aleida being a young woman in a field that is predominantly male. Aleida speaks with passion about her work in encouraging young women to think about STEM as a viable option and pathway.
There is so much brilliance in this episode, you will not want to miss out!
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
As we think about our lives, we all go through certain stages where things happen. These are a mixture of the "good" the "bad" and sometimes the "ugly". Our guest this week summarises this really well as she speaks to us about how different phases of her life led to growth at different parts of her life.Manpreet Dhanjal talks to us this week about how from being someone that was a super homebody not wanting to leave home to become a person who helped set up a company that allows her to be a digital nomad. The amazing thing about this is that Manpreet was doing this well before it became mainstream. We speak about the motivation behind this way of working. We also talk about how she was always passionate about all things computing but so very nearly followed a different path. Manpreet talks to us about the importance of failing but also how we all need to exercise our resilience muscles to ensure growth.This conversation is filled with beautiful analogies, learnings and wisdom.EnjoyPrajesh and Tane
This week our guest grew up in a small rural community in the South Island of New Zealand. It was in this community that our guest embraced the beauty and the fragility of nature. Being an island nation, New Zealand native flora and fauna is, like other island nations, always under threat from invasive species. This is where our conversation with Anna Clark starts.
However, as the title says, Anna's story takes on the twists and turns of a rollercoaster. We talk to Anna about how an accident literally threw her off course through the impact of a concussion. We also navigate how Anna has been around people that have presented her with opportunities from the most unlikely of conversation. We have a fantastic chat about being a Fulbright Scholar and giving a TedEx talk.
This episode is full of laughs, exploration of adventures with the passion that Anna has for so many things coming through so clearly.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
This week's episode is a hard hitting and very powerful chat with our guest who shares her journey of being a woman,
a woman of colour,
a woman of colour who wears a hijab
Our guest Salma Abdalla talks to us about navigating the question "Where are you from?" How that question has so many layers and so many answers that provide a rich tapestry for our conversation. We talk about the sacrifices her parents made for them to move to New Zealand and the challenges that they faced when they moved here. We talk about self-love, self-compassion and the power of always remembering your Why, in any context.
There is so much emotion, passion and beauty this week, with two amazingly impactful pieces of knowledge that Salma shares to put into our basket.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Our guest this week has been leaving an impact in all the mahi/work that he is involved in. However, in this episode we go right back to where it all started from. We speak to Luis Perez about arriving in New Zealand as a refugee. He has used his experience to provide platforms such as Voice of Aroha to allow people that live in minority ethnic communities to share their stories.
We also delve into Luis's foray with the importance of exposure, the power of allowing people to have an experience that in turn opens up opportunities. Luis talks to us about how a rolled ankle became one of the worst best things to happen to him as it allowed him to stop, pause and think about his priorities.
This conversation is rich with experiences, with inspiration, with aspiration, but also oozing with passion for the power of storytelling.
Luis'sknowledge that he shares at the end is one of the most powerful ones we have heard on our podcast. You will not want to miss it!
To learn more about Voice of Aroha have a look at their website here :https://voiceofaroha.org.nz/
and to drop a few coins to help Luis in his fundraising campaign to help fund someone to attend Outward Bound here's the link : https://www.justgiving.com/page/luis-perez-1713510864143
Our guest this week shares a story that should inspire anyone that hears it to stop for a moment to think about what their real passion for doing things is.Sean Prenter shares his story about an accident that changed the trajectory of his life. This change has resulted in Sean becoming an advocate for marginalised young people in education. In this episode we speak about the various projects and roles Sean has been involved in. From setting up a disabled students association, being Co-President of the National Students Disabled Association, to being part of the Peace Club as they offered Online English Courses for young people in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.There is also a segway in to Sean's practice of meditation and how reframing has changed the way he has looked at things as well as imparting the knowledge to us.This is open, honest and beautiful conversation with so many amazing takeawaysTo see the work that Sean is involved in check out these pages on IG:@ndsaaotearoa and @thepeace.co.nz EnjoyPrajesh and Tane
Trigger warning, this podcast touches on suicide, If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately a professional to help you.On this week's podcast the passion, the drive and the mission our guest Jack Jensen has is palpable throughout the whole conversation. We speak to Jack about the creation of MSFT Productions and how that tapped into a space that is close to Jack's heart, the ability to do some really living on the edge things to get the blood pumping.Jack talks to us also about the reality of losing friends to suicide. Instead of sitting around and doing nothing about it, Jack and his crew as MSFT Productions started up a campaign called "Spark that Chat". The power, the emotion, the reality of this campaign is awe inspiring. Jack speaks to us openly and candidly about what this means to him and the people around him especially in the Hawkes Bay.As always this is another conversation filled with so much knowledge, so many truth bombs and emotion. It is one that you do not want to miss!You can follow their work herehttps://www.msftproductions.net/sparkthatchat@spark_that_chatEnjoyPrajesh and Tane
A scientist at heart our guest this week Sneha talks to us about the journey that she has undergone as she has taken her love for science at school to complete her degree in an area she enjoys.
This conversation explores that journey, but we also get to chat about Sneha's passion for helping young people which resulted in her choosing to be an RA for two years before taking up her current role as a Residential Coordinator at the Halls at the University of Canterbury. Her passion for helping young people as they transition is clearly visible.
Through the conversation we talk about Sneha's interest in modelling and not letting the tone of her skin define her place on the stage and the world. We talk about her part in the Miss India NZ show, which then gave her the taste and confidence to put her name up for the Miss Canterbury 2024 show. Through this we speak about how Sneha has used her love of dance to be able to raise awareness for the I am hope and the Brave charities.
There is so much to unpack in this conversation, we know you will love it!
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Dancing and being on stage, if we had told this weeks guest that one day he would be showing his pride for his culture and upbringing through dance he would have told us we were dreaming.
This is just one of the areas we get to speak about with our fantastic guest Teja Depuru this week. Teja talks to us about growing up as the child of new immigrants to New Zealand. The importance that his family placed on him knowing and always embracing the roots that he has come from. This has been a strength that he has been able to lean on as he navigated his study to now be a pharmacist. We speak about all the changes we face as we go from high school to university then from university to the work place and how at each stage we grow but we also need to adapt and change who we associate with.
This is a profound episode in which the positive, calm and always friendly nature that Teja has comes through so evidently as we speak about his story so far.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Born in Barbados but raised in the winterless North in New Zealand, our guest this week uses the energy and learnings from his formative years in Northland to power him in all that he does.
Kii Small is a creative hustler who has teamed up with some like minded people to develop platforms that allow for individuals to better understand their mental health, as well as understand historical contexts. He is the Founder of the SaySo Project, a digital storytelling platform that gives young people around New Zealand the opportunity to start journaling their stories and experiences without barriers.
Kii is also the co-founder of the Unpack Podcast, which dissects New Zealand history and culture through the rhetoric of the comment section on social media. This is a must listen podcast for anyone in New Zealand.
In this episode we talk about why and how these two ventures started, we speak about Kii's time as an Obama Leader, but in essence this is just a great conversation about how to take up opportunities and not let others define your boundaries.
As always the knowledge shared at the end is priceless
Check out the SaySoProject here: https://sayso-project.com/
and search for the Unpack Podcast on your fave podcast app
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Growing up in the Philippines our guest today moved with his family to small town Hawera where he discovered something called rugby and a community that was really welcoming.
Education has always been something that was normalised in his family. Peter Remoto talks to us about how he was unsure what to study when he first started at University but decided to have some physics and some chemistry in his first year. Through his study he got to a stage where he discovered that he really enjoyed chemistry. This opened doors for Peter to do an honours project, a Masters and now a PhD. He was also given the opportunity to get some industry experience in this field which got him excited to do more study.
Through this episode we talk about the projects that Peter has been involved in. The reality of loneliness in a new city and the opportunities that game him.
A fantastic piece of wisdom to end the episode!
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Change is part of life, but we all approach this in different ways. In this weeks episode we explore some key phases of change faced as they moved from school to uni, from uni to work and all the various changes along the way.
Our guest Ozair talks to us about how he used discipline, consistency and faith to help him navigate his path. We talk about the joys of finding new friends and embracing the diversity they bring. There is a full circle moment as we discuss not knowing what to do at school and graduating with a profession he found along the way. We cover many interesting topics in this episode. The knowledge that Ozair shares with us to put into our Basket of Knowledge is mind blowingly beautiful!!
Enjoy!
Prajesh and Tane
Coming from a household where teaching has always been the profession of choice, this weeks guest had decided that she would break the mould and try something different. However, as we all know, life has a funny way of working things out and we speak to our guest about how she has found herself in a classroom being a teacher.
During this episode we also speak about how life has thrown Ghananta her fair share of surprises. Through each of these surprises Ghananta talks to us about how her faith has been something she has been able to lean on and delve into to get her through some dark times.
There is a great chat about her visit to India, the experiences she has had there, and a full circle link to how being in a classroom has always been a calling!
As always there are a number of fantastic lessons and amazing life experiences in this episode.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
This week we have a throwback to a guest from Episode 19, at that time Marcus was at the start of his study journey and spoke about the journey he was undergoing then with his identity as being Māori. In this episode we speak to a very different person who has faced the disappointment of not getting into a professional health program. We speak about how this was the best worst thing to have happened to Marcus. The inner growth that has seen him reframe his world and really think about why he is doing what he wants to do. This is a great episode where we see the growth has happened but also the cheek that has developed with Marcus.
As always so many learnings from this episode as Marcus turned his maniac mindset to a mindset that has him focused on getting into Medical School.
Enjoy
Prajesh and Tane
Growing up in Auckland our guest this week grew up in a world where his identity was well defined as a young person. However, as he grew older and the kinds of people that lived around him changed this got him thinking about what his cultural identity was. Through this episode we speak to Vitolio Niuloa about how he now proudly represents his Samoan and Niuean cultures. What this means to him and how it led him to design a Pacific research project focusing on the importance of interpersonal connection during his psychology undergraduate degree.
Though he has completed his psychology degree, Vito had a dream to become a Dr, a dream that started from a very simple reaction that his family had when he said to them he wanted to be a Dr when he was at school. That reaction is something that kept him going as navigated his undergrad trip. On this trip he found people he fully connected with, he found a way that helped him study effectively, he found friendship and more importantly the encapsulation of Vā.
In this episode we learn how the impact of family, friends and being a humble human can have a profound impact. As always this is filled with a number of actionable lessons for anyone listening.
Enjoy!
Prajesh and Tane
This week our guest is well known by anyone that is looking to work in the field of accounting or has an interest in this area. He is well known by many of the tertiary providers in New Zealand and Australia with the work that he does in engaging with communities through his employer MYOB. However, like all our guests Shailan Patel is way more than what his job title is.
In this episode we talk about how Shailan had set a few timestamped resolutions in his life and how these have led him to move from the United Kingdom to New Zealand. There is a fantastic narrative about what education looks like, what the idea of home is and a chat about how AI is becoming a part of our lives. We also talk about how building a community in a new place can happen over a run or joining a football team.
As always, the piece of knowledge that Shailan leaves us at the end is one that ANYONE can implement into their lives.
Enjoy!
Prajesh and Tane
Building a community is something that is innate to all humans. However, as humans we tend to marginalis some communities based on some variable be it race, religion, age, sexual orientation.
Our guest this week Angus Lonergan speaks about the passion he has for working within these communities. In his current role as the Child & Youth Engagement Lead with UNICEF Aotearoa Angus gets to work closely with getting the voices of young people heard. Not just heard but also valued by those that are making important decisions. in this episode we speak about how Angus got to where he has gotten, there is a beautiful thread of connection that weaves this career story.
We touch on climate change and the delegation that attended COP 23 in Dubai. We also speak about what it is like being Australian living in Aotearoa with respect to the very different attitudes towards respecting indigenous language and culture in mainstream life.
As always there are some fantastic takeaways that any one listening can put into their Basket of Knowledge.
Many people will know our guest this week from their work as being an activist, a columnist and a political commentator. OR you might know them for the work they were involved in with a banning of conversion therapy in Aotearoa/New Zealand.
In this final episode of 2023 with Shaneel, we touch on those topics, but we talk more candidly about Shaneel just completing their Law degree with the University of Auckland, the move from Fiji to New Zealand. We also speak about the writing journey that has allowed Shaneel to publish a really powerful memoir "One of Them". Our conversation talks about topics that were in front of mind at the time of recording the podcast, about being awarded Young New Zealander of the Year, what that was really like for Shaneel and what it means.
As always this was a fantastic conversation with another fantastic human with so much to share and so many lessons to take away.
You can purchase a copy of Shaneels' book from any of these links https://linktr.ee/Shaneellall
You can follow Shaneel on their IG @shaneellall
Our guest this week arrived in New Zealand from Malaysia as a fresh faced 17 year old to embark on her tertiary pathway. However, before navigating that she had to get used to the radically different culture that welcomed her to her new "home".
Anne Lim decided to try a law paper because she was looking for something that would get her problem solving and critical juices flowing. This paper that was done just to see what it was like ended up being one of Anne's qualifications as she graduated with an LLB and a BA in Politics.
In this episode we speak to Anne about this study journey, but how this set her up to work as a corporate lawyer for a few years before she moved to a policy role in the New Zealand Police. We speak about the transition from corporate law into policy work. We speak about some of the pieces of work that Anne got involved in such as DNA testing.
During her time working at Police Anne applied and got accepted into the Masters of Public Policy at Oxford University. On her recent graduation we also touch into her role at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
Each one of these brings out some highlights and realities in Anne's journey. Listen in for this and so much more including Annes power packed piece of knowledge and her opinion of the best food in Malaysia
Read Anne's outstanding piece on the legacy of leadership here: https://www.bsg.ox.ac.uk/blog/jacinda-ardern-legacy-leader-new-zealand-and-beyond
Connect with Anne here: www.linkedin.com/in/anne-lim-nz/
Growing up on a farm in rural Southland our guest this week speaks to usabout how she has navigated different paths in her life and has gotten to a place right now where she has found happiness. Happiness is a key theme of todays episode as Jess talks us through being a young person that was not sure what she wanted to study to finding a passion in science. BUT not just science for the sake of it but how science can be applied back into a real life setting.
During her time studying Jess also took up a role as Residential Assistant at a University Residential College, which changed the trajectory of her life path. This is now an integral part of Jess' life, we talk about how living with young people 24/7 comes with its challenges but also its gifts. The piece of knowledge that Jess leaves us with is one that we could all embrace every single day.
On this week's episode our guest speaks about how seeing the inequalities while at high school fired her up to try to make a difference. Little did she know that the difference she was about to make was going to take her on a path that has seen her impacting the lives of a lot more people than she planned. Te Kahukura Boynton is the the host and owner of Māori Millionaire, but her story starts well before she found this as her calling.
In this episode we talk about her early days as a student at two very different schools, and how in the spur of a moment she chose to leave school to study Law. During her "formal" study she realised that all the informal learning that she had as a child through reading she actually had the ability to take these learnings to be able to create something for others. BUT this did not come easy, we speak about how Te Kahukura Boynton went from being broke, to tutoring a subject that she had dropped years before, to how she started her crusade to empower financial literacy for Māori. We also speak about the importance of health and well-being and how that has really shifted her life. There is also a wee insight into the Millionaire Morning routine. The knowledge that Te Kahukura Boynton put into our Basket of knowledge this week is one that you DO NOT want to miss out on!
Connect with @Te Kahukura Boynton on her following socials
maorimillionaire.com
IG @maorimillionaire_
FB https://www.facebook.com/maorimillionaire/
Our guest Nate Wilbourne this week has always been one with nature, it has been his norm. At the age of eight he planted his first tree which got him thinking about being a kaitaki for a place that he has a passion for, the land. This has led him to a journey that has seen him involved in a large number of organisations that are all focused on nature conservation as well as being an advocate and an activist in this space.
In this episode we speak about being a young person trying to balance school, work and his passion. We talk about being a semi-finalist for the Impact Awards. We have a few moments of laughter about the bird of century competition this year, an event that is close to Nate through his work with Forest and Bird. Nate speaks about the work he does with an organisation that gives him a sense of purpose everyday, the HealthPost Nature Trust in Mohua Golden Bay. Nate juggles a number of roles and passions which we try to speak about in this episode. His wisdom for our Basket of Knowledge is one that each one of us can take into our everyday lives.
You can find Nate's photo gallery here: https://www.natewilbourne.com/gallery
His Tedx talk "The importance of connecting Youth with Nature" here: https://youtu.be/Gl1KeE-Lt8E?si=ieGBWsIkRm5EROkK
As a young shy year 9 student our guest today would nothave imagined that in a few short years he would be confidently speaking to large groups of people in a public space. BUT what our guest did know was that the head students at his school were kind to him and were positive role models, and this was a goal he had, to become the Head Boy at his school.
Our guest this week @Kaita Hummel speaks about theopportunities that he has taken up to be involved in areas that he feels strongly about. Areas about the environment, areas around the power of young people, areas that look into empowering, helping and enabling people and communitiesaround him. All this while still being at school. We speak about his experiences on the BLAKE Inspire program, his trip to the London Science Innovation Forum, his passion around street photography. This is really wonderful conversation about a young person that wants to make an Impact in theworld through science while having fun.
Imagine living in a world where you were unable to communicate as openly as you wanted, a world where people assume you can hear what they are saying but you can't. This is the world that this week's guest has had to navigate.
Hope Cotton, our guest this week speaks to us about growing up deaf. The impact of this was realised fully during the Covid-19 lockdowns when schools started to use online learning. The lack of captioning software at the time was highlighted. This has led Hope to be an advocate forthe deaf community in so many ways. One mission that she is championing is a petition to make captioning mandatory on TV and all media videos. We speak about this and how this can change the world for the deaf community.
We also go into a number of areas that Hope is an advocate or a youth disrupter in. We speak about her relationship with herfaith as it challenged her identity. This is a fantastic conversation that has not only delving into topics that matter but also some fantastic laughs.
Trigger warning. In this weeks episode we speak about Cancer, Self Harm, Depression, Mental Health. Please avoid this episode if any of these topics may have a detrimental effect on you.
Our guest this week started off our conversation with theline "and lots has happened in my life". This was a fantastic premise to this really wonderful, open, honest and emotive conversation.
Moving to New Zealand from Uruguay, Inaki has had thechallenge but also the advantage of growing up traversing two very different cultures. Living in a small community outside of Christchurch would soon become an integral part of his life when Inaki was diagnosed with cancer as a 13 year old. This changed the trajectory of Inaki and his family's life. Inaki speaks openly about the day he was given his diagnosis and gives usan in depth account about the 3 years he went through his treatment. Lots of love, love of support, lots of emotion shared. We speak about how Inaki has used the last three years to give back to an organisation that has become close to his heart, Shave for a Cure.
Our conversation also shifts as we talk about the mentaltoll that has taken place in his life. Inaki openly speaks about his challenges this year around his mental well being. He speaks about how it all started unravelling for him, BUT we touch on a very important moment for him. The moment being talking to his friends about what he was going through and how hisfriends essentially have helped Inaki to get to where he is now.
A power packed episode, with a fantastic human being. Lets us know what really stood out for you in the comments.
What was meant to be a 20 minute reflection ended up being a 45 minute podcast! In today's episode we talk to Tane about his busy year juggling coaching opportunities with honours research. We talk about the challenges and triumphs he has had in coaching, and how he endeavours to take these learnings into coaching for 2024. At the same time, we explore postgrad research and how Tane aims to promote the value of government initiatives if they can lead to better physical activity experiences for children outside of school!As always, we would love for you to like, follow, and share this podcast as we continue to grow Baskets of Knowledge
This week's guest is a mover and shaker as they look tochange the narrative around young people in New Zealand. @LolaFisher is a 15 year old that has challenged the norms that society has around young people. This started by getting involved in a photography course to pass some time, little did she know that this would change the trajectory of herlife. Through that one course she was introduced to a mentor that saw the potential Lola has. This potential has become a tangible force when over a Zoom call Lola and her team of co-founders decided to change the narrative on how young people are represented in New Zealand. They created a magazine tailored for young people, run by young people between the ages of 10 and 20.
We speak about @Creaty Happy Media, we speak about beinga youth councillor and we delve into what life is like as a teenager.
This episode is filled with great quotes, great learningsand some fantastically positive energy!
Growing up in the beautiful East Coast in New Zealand in a tiny area called Makorori Beach, our guest this week speaks openly about her love for her community, her love for the area she grew up in and her love for being in the Ocean.
Saffi Vette talks to us about how the classroom was not a place that she enjoyed, but while at school she grew to love the outdoors and embraced the competitive nature that she has. Through this conversation Saffi talks to us about the influence her family, especially her dad, had on her passion for surfing. How she realised that this “recreational activity” can actually become a way for her to make a living as a professional. Along this journey we talk about how the passing of her father to cancer had a massive effect on her as a person and her training, but how her father is always with her. We speak about the kindness of the community in Gisborne, the kindness of her new family in Australia and how this sport has opened up so many connections for her.
In amongst all of this talk we also talk about how Saffi felt when she heard that she had qualified to represent New Zealand at the Paris Olympics in 2024 – a dream that she had when she first started watching the Olympics on TV.
This episode is filled with so many learnings, laughs and nuggets! Enjoy!
Saffi does need your help though, Pro Surfing is not well funded in New Zealand. If you are able to help Saffi with sponsorship please do reach out to her
She can be contacted on IG @saffivette
Having an entrepreneurial mindset has been the norm for our guest this week. From buying and selling parts through AliExpress to building his own wee iron forge, our guest speaks to us about how being a "nerd" is something that he has owned. We speak about balancing running a social enterprise scheme with his mate Owyn, while maintaining his study. We speak about the challenges and wins that he has experienced as a person and also as an organisation. Hadi, also speaks abouthow the impact of what they do in their workshops gives him the greatest joy. Ever heard of barking as a hobby, Hadi will give us a wee glimpse about what that is about.
Living in three countries and about to move to her fourth, our guest this week speaks about the challenges and learnings she has had along the way. Her family have moved from India to South Africa to New Zealand each one place has had a formative experience for her.
Rishita talks to us about the passion that has been ignited in her belly which first started when her mum "made" her give a speech at school. That speech entitled "Traumatised Coffee Beans" might have just been the start that has got her really fired up about healthcare. However, it is not just healthcare but equal and fair access to healthcare. We speak about the number of opportunities that have offered Rishita an insight into worlds she did not imagine.
This is a fabulous conversation with a young person who is pursuing her goal to be able to be a leader in the healthcare industry.
Cast your minds back to when you were 14 years old. What were you doing? What were you thinking? Can you even remember that age? Our guest was applying to be on various committees and boards because she wanted to make difference.
This week, Aarthi speaks to us about how she has not let her age stop her from being involved in things that most adults shy away from. She speaks with passion and lots of joy about being an advocate for her community, for not letting the colour of her skin stop her from being a voice for her community. She speaks about how an idea that she had while sitting on the couch with a friend has now tranformed the lives of so many young people through the expression of cultural performance. We speak about the various number of times when it would been so easy to ignore or say no to a call but by saying yes she has been able to open doors into a world that has allowed her to start making change.
This is a fabulously, enlightening, informative and entertaning episode with Aarthi Candadai. Enjoy!!
Please like, follow, share our podcast on what ever platform you use to listen to it.
Storytelling has always been part of human nature. The use of stories has been used to capture the imagination, to highlight special topics and also used to entertain. Our guest this week has found his passion for storytelling through the use of the camera. Loyd grew up in a small town on a small island in the Philippines, it was there that his fascination for storytelling was ignited. Through simple school projects he realised the power that a simple smart phone can have to tell a story. Loyd's life changed dramatically when he did not get a highly sought after scholarship. In this episode we speak about how this took him out of his comfort zone, how he created a movie that won an award that saw him visit New Zealand even though his mum was apprehensive. We speak about the reality of being in a new place and not knowing anyone. We speak about his passion for sharing his journey which is a journey we all grow through at some point in our lives. We speak about the impact he is making as a filmmaker and his growth on social media platforms. This episode is full of some wonderful insights.
Check out Lloyds content on:
https://www.youtube.com/loyddoron
IG: @loyddoron
Tik Tok: Loyd Doron
Growing up in a low socio-econimic area our guest this week had the odds stacked against him from the start. However, with a mum that would not let this define his future and with the strength of determination our guest has gone on to break down barriers, doors and ceilings to get him to where he is today.
In our chat, Jaxson Tautala-Hanita breaks down how saying yes to small oppurtunities along the way has led to some fantastic pay offs in his growth. We touch on the impact that racism has had and how that could have derailed his plans even before he realised them. We also explore the research he is undertaking, the Why behind the Wai, which introduces some fantastic reflection points. This is a fantastic conversation with loads of knowledge scattered through it.
Enjoy!
Everyone of us has a time in our lives when we are so tied to an identity and for lots of us that identity is linked to a job/career path. This was no different for our guest this week. His identity was linked to his love for watching House MD, so it was very obvious that being a doctor was the identity he was tied to. However, this does not work well when you arrive at university and discover that you do not like Anatomy!
This is the starting point for the conversation with Quintin as we explore this radical shift in identity as he now had to find something else to do while at university. As the podcast title says Quintin has had loads of just say Yes moments that have led him to being involved in various student run organisations, discovering a voice on the radio, penning journal articles and now running one of the most successful student bodies in New Zealand. This is great conversation that explores a journey that has been quite the rollercoaster.
As a young person our guest this week speaks about how when the time came to leave school to go to university she just did what she thought she enjoyed and was the thing to do and off she went. She did well in her chosen course of study but also used her time at university to explore other interesting ideas. The shift that our guest speaks about happens when she went into the corporate world, which was a fantastic space for her with amazing people, but the career path this was leading down did not sit well with her and her search for purpose. Making a brave choice to quit her job, with nothing to go to, Kendall, embarked on a journey. A journey that brought her back to something she remembered she enjoyed at school, tinkering with computers. This journey, the mentors along the way, the questions along the way, the rule breaking along the way has lead her to now be the Co-CEO of Banqer.
This is a fabulous conversation about how knowing when to listen to your gut, there is an interesting way to get to your purpose.
A biology teacher told our guest at the age of 14/15 that she should
think about studying genetics as she seemed to take to it naturally.
That one conversation sparked an area of interest that now sees our
guest, Ashleigh Stanners on the cusp of entering a Masters program that
will incorporate her passion in this space. However, as you will hear in
this episode this was and has not been a smooth pathway. Ashleigh
speaks to us about the first time she faced a panic attack and how that
became a part of her life. She speaks to us about the importance of
having supportive people as you go through your mental well being
journey. Ashleigh also speaks to us about how she gave things a go and
things sometimes worked out and sometimes didn't so she has had to shift her plans but in those shifts she has found some interesting
opportunities. There is lots we cover in this episode, being a head
student, coming from a small communitiy, covid-19, mental health,
alcohol and a whole lot more!
Listen, share, comment and like this to help us grow this podcast.
This weeks guest is a highlight as she speaks to us about her upbringing in a town that has both cultural and global significance. She speaks about her upbringing shaped her formative years. As we delve deeper into the conversation our guests explores the various learnings she has had as she has navigated life, study and finding her passion in music. Candice speaks to us about a wide range of topics, but with such depth of lived experience learnings that we can all take away something from her learnings.
With part two, we continue to discuss our guests in depth story on the journey that has gotten them to where they are today.
In this story, which is broken up into two parts, our guests Samad and Uzair talk about going back to live and learn in Pakistan how this became a defining moment for them both. We delve into being diagnosed with cancer and feeling helpless. We speak about mental health, well being and trying not to lose yourself when going to university, how both Uzair and Samad had to navigate this.
Uzair talks to us about how sport, specifically Olympic lifting is now a big part of his life, while Samad explores the importance of being a good human through understanding your faith.
This episode is an emotional conversation that reminds us all about the power of reflection.
Born in Pakistan but spending most of their lives in Christchurch our guests this week share an in depth story on the journey that has gotten them to where they are today.
In this story, which is broken up into two parts, our guests Samad and Uzair talk about going back to live and learn in Pakistan how this became a defining moment for them both. We delve into being diagnosed with cancer and feeling helpless. We speak about mental health, well being and trying not to lose yourself when going to university, how both Uzair and Samad had to navigate this.
Uzair talks to us about how sport, specifically Olympic lifting is now a big part of his life, while Samad explores the importance of being a good human through understanding your faith.
This episode is an emotional conversation that reminds us all about the power of reflection
Growing up in a family that has always excelled in the sporting arena, todays guest Kobe Miller speaks about how this has helped him get to where he is today.
In this podcast we speak about the reality of being a high-performance athlete while studying at university. It also becomes very clear about the impact the self-discipline and self-awareness has on being successful on both fronts. Kobe talks to us about the challenges faced when he first got to university while giving us a wee sneak into the life of somone that is training at an elite level.
This is a fantastic conversation that brings out some wonderful experiences and pieces of lived advice.
Physics physics physics when the world seems like you will be doing science because that's what you know at school.. but then realise that when you come to university hey, you can do anything you want so why not do something that you love??
This is the epic story this week's guest Max Balloch shares with us. When you embrace the mantra of doing something you love, your outlook on the world changes immensely. This mantra has led Max into delving into Philosophy while dabbling in Science Communication, and it was in this we ebit of dabbling that Max found something else that he loved doing.. creating podcasts! Max speaks to us about his podcast journey and the creation of "Dear Nature", he also speaks to us about how seeking awards was not his goal, yet the awards came. One powerful takeaway from the episode is the power of writing, Max shows us his diary where he writes things down when he has an idea, and how that idea may lie dormant for months then in a moment it sparks a creation.
Enjoy another fantastic conversation with another amazing human.
Many of us go thorugh our lives not realising or being fully aware of what our values are, this is one of the things that truly stops us from doing things that really align with us. This weeks guest Nathan Kenah, locked down his values from a very early age. Even though he may have not realised it at the time. His journey so far has taken him from living in a comunity that is predominately Maori to a place that is radically different. This podcast speaks to how he has navigated this change, but also how he has kept his core values at the root of everything he does and is doing. His focus on well being and in particular the impact of spiriual wellbeing in individuals is really something that is fasinating to listen to. This episode takes us all on a fabulous tale of connection, identity and hauroa.
Imagine being told by your business teacher at secondary school that you should probably stay away from anything to do with business. Then a few years later you are running your own business at the age of 23!
This weeks guest Ben Hobbs shares amazing learnings and nuggets of gold as he talks to us about realising that tertiary study was not for him at this point in life. How that took him down a path where he has learnt a number of skills as he has tried his hand at the world of business. He speaks about the growth, the failures, the learnings and the experiences these have taught him. More importantly Ben talks about how a radical shift in his mindset paved the way to him looking at life with a whole new perspective.
This podcast episode really got us all thinking about the importantance of working on yourself to change your world and also about the power of just saying YES.
If you are in Wellington and need some labouring jobs check out Bens company here https://www.hrlabour.co.nz
The beauty of French architecture inspired this week's guest to pursue the study of Architecture and Building Sciences, but as we all know things change along the way and Natacha found an interest in Project Management and Sustainable Design. Crazy to think at that point the world was not ready toembrace the idea of sustainable thinking. This led Natacha down the project management pathway. Along this journey she used her student smarts to make the best of an offer that Les Mills was running at the time. This set off a spark and a storyline that has led her to where she is now. Nat has now embraced the world of being a Personal Trainer, a podcast host and all round advocate for empowering female well being. This is a fantastic conversation that touches on how moments in life can trigger pathways that you might never imagine. Check out her podcast with Jess here: https://open.spotify.com/show/62RihTIE9sqlZXcvydaKIN
On the occassion of Prajesh's birthday it was really fantastic to have singer/songwriter and all round fantastic human being Kylie Price as our guest. In this episode Kylie speaks to us about her move from Dunedin to London which has brought about oppurtunities, challenges and lots of growth. Kylie opens up to us about her mental health journey, navigating being a musician while studying at university and how being in an introvert in an extrovert industry is okay. The conversation weaves through a number of topics that are important to Kylie but also that we know you as a listener will not just enjoy but find insightful.
You can follow and interact with Kylie here - @kyliepricemusic
Have a listen to her music here:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/07bDT0MUTNYJeSnnGzLhlM?si=9SekLIp9Tw-2tPqj5hQlHA
Please note that this podcast mentions abuse, rape and mental health trauma. If it gets a lot to take in, take a break, skip out that part of the episode or come back later.
Growing up in a family that lived in a number of places around the world has shaped the values and principles of this week's guest. Our guest Gavin Bishop speaks to us about life living in all these different places, his motivation to study medicine and how the skills he has picked up as a hitchhiker has introduced him to some interesting people leading to all sorts of conversation.We also speak about Gavins' interest and passion for sharing his educational experiences through educational videos. Gavin also shares his strong passion around effective altruism, which focuses on using evidence and reason to figure out how to benefit others as much as possible, and taking action on that basis. This is a fantastic conversation with some great learning from lived experiences.
Gavins videos can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/c/GavinBishop072
For more about how you can get involved in effective altruism check out:
https://80000hours.org/
Other links:
Peru Protests: https://youtu.be/MczsgjQPBw8
Best apps for students: https://youtu.be/HMSa-9SFyFQ
Growing up in a world where limitations were determined by the perceived lack of capabilities, our guest this week got caught up in that mindset early on in hislife. However, moving to another city and meeting people that were achieving things that he thought were out of his ability got him to rethink his mindset.This then set Rawiri on a path that has seen him complete an undergrad degree, then a Masters program and in the midst of all this he has managed tointertwine and really understand the superpower that learning Te Reo Maori and Tikanga Maori has.
This episode is filled with amazing stories, amazing analogies and a fantastic array of real life experiences where limiting beliefs have been a barrier, butthrough belief and support those have been overcome. This is an episode you do not want to miss!
Find out more about Rawiri and his work here
Website:https://www.99dreams.co.nz/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/99dreamsnz/
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6EiFvriOnVhQ4jaWik1FhC?si=2df20c8e10c84316
All my links: https://linktr.ee/99dreams
Close your eyes for a second and try to imagine that the first flight that you take to leave New Zealand, the country you have always lived in, is Bolivia! And you then spend next 7 weeks in the middle of the jungle caring for some of the worlds apex predators, this is what our guest this week speaks about. Before we even get to that adveture our guest Michaal Fox talke about how caring for the environment has always been something he has been passionate about. This has led him to being involved in exciting research projects during his study that firmed up his goal on studying for a PhD. Along the way Michael talks to us about his other passion which is working with young people and how that has been a strong part of his life so far. As we explore this journey Michael leaves us with one of the most profound pieces of knowledge to put into our Baskets of Knowledge. Have a listen to find out what this awesome piece of knowledge it is.
What does a super hero look like? Tane and Prajesh think that our guest this week is in a pretty strong place to be considered a superhero! Lauren speaks to us this week about how she has navigated life and study while balancing the curve balls Musculocontractural Ehlers Danlos Syndrome throws at her. Lauren calls herself "A small human with big dreams", and in this episode we touch on some of those dreams. We speak about the impact that she has made in advocating for students with a disability, she speaks about her passion for well being, her passion for being a community health worker, but more importantly on how she has not let her condition stop her from doing all the awesome things she has done. This is part 1 of conversation that you will not want to miss.
We live in a world where success is a narrative that is pushed on us. Whether it be being the fastest, the fittest, the smartest, the richest etc. It is a narrative that we are all too familiar with. This chase for success to be the fastest and the fittest is what led this week's guest down a path that nearly ended his life. Harry Averill speaks to us about how being diagnosed with anorexia not only saved his life, but also put him through some of the hardest and darkest times of his life. Through this episode Harry navigates his journey and how he has changed his perspective in life. Instead of chasing success everyday, look for happiness and that will enable you to live a more fulfilling life.
Harry has written a book about his journey which can be purchased at https://www.harryaverill.com/
Growing up in the small town of Fielding in the Manawatu and having parents what had never been to University Sam always had a passion and drive to enter the health care profession.This was clearly apparent when at school students were asked to bring in their favourite book/reading they had done as a year 9 and Sam brought in a book that details a very specific health process, whilst his peers brough in books like Harry Potter etc. This focus did not waiver when Sam did not get into Medical School after Health Science First Year, instead it allowed Sam to focus on other areas of interest. When he did get into Medical School a number of corridor conversations allowed him to explore various oppurtunities that have given him a skill set that is pretty special. Please enjoy listening to this episode with Dr Sam Grainger.
What do you get when you are raised in a familiy where education and standing for the rights others is a core value? You get a person who tries to avoid that life, but life knows better and leads you down the pathway of being involved in education, in politics and being a voice for students around the country as well as representing those around the world. Our guest this week, Ellen Dixon, describes herself as a creative metatheorist (someone who corrects incorrect or imbalanced social science theories) and has been elected in some amazing roles both nationally and internationally. However, at the end the day she is a fantastic human with an amazing story to tell.
Growing up on a farm our guest today has had to go through a number of life changes where he has been pushed out of his comfort zone. This started from leaving a tiny school in the country into an inner city urban school, followed up by leaving a very tight knit community to attend a University very far from his hometown, and a whole lot more! Our guest has used these changes to develop as a person and to realise that by engaging with all sorts of people he will experience immense growth. He also has an entrepreneurial spirit that sees him running two businesses. Check them out on www.pesttosociety.com and on Instagram @Np.thrift_
Growing up being a super active team sport person Sophia had a plan to be involved in the fitness/sporting industry, a conversation with her dad changed things up for her slightly. This one conversation has led Sophia down a path that she would not have imagined. It has presented her with oppurtunities and learnings that she has embraced and taken on board. She has started to share these learnings on her podcast "Chapter24podcast". Find her podcast on Spotify and give her a follow on @chapter24podcast
Today we reflect on the year it has been. Through 42 episodes there have been plenty of learnings, so we take this time to reset, reflect on success and the biggest takeaways the podcast has given us this year.
Growing up in a religious family, this weeks guest spent her formative education years being homeschooled. This presented both pros and cons for her as a young person. One of the key growths for her was her acute understanding of being aware. This awareness led her to challenge the religious dogma she grew up in, awareness on what really drove her as a person, awareness on how the path towards self destruction was not the life she wanted and finally awareness on taking on massive project at work that would accelerate her career growth. This episode has lots for everyone to learn from and relate to.
At the age of ten Abby had already written out her business card. It had her name, and her title as she was inspired by her mother who is a leader in her field of study. As she started to realise this aspiration, Abby discovered another part of her. The power of helping young people as they go through the highs and lows of University. This is a great chat where Abby speaks about learning to look after herself before she could really look after others.
Sitting at school George noticed that some of his male peers were experienced anxiety and stress as the uncertainty of life unfolded around them. Instead of sitting around doing nothing, George has seen the lack of support in the mental health system to help these young men, he has used that as the fuel to allow him to fundraise for the I AM Hope and the Gumboot Friday foundation. Have a listen to this young mans amazing undertakings so far and his planning for his next ambitious project. Follow him on @blackdogswim
Growing up as young man in the Taranaki todays guest was very in tune from an early age with the values that drive him, and act as his northstar. He has used these values to help shape his interactions with his family and his friends. It has helped him decide what, why and where to study and most importantly it has been the basis on how he has chosen to start his career. Have a listen to find out what these values are and how Rory incorporates them into his daily life.
Growing up as a quiet, shy person this weeks guest has epitomised the title of this podcast. From taking a risk about what to study and where to study to having the one conversation that has changed her life. In the process she is now changing the lives of everyone that makes contact with her every week.
Growing up as a young child Aneesa had a natural and innate awareness of the impact that humans had on the environment, from noticing the amount of litter in a school yard to the power that nature has. During her formative years these experiences lead her down the pathway to studying Ecology. Along that journey she has also had to find who she really is as a young Sri Lankan person, a young Queer person and as person that is connected with and too nature. This is a powerful episode with LOADS of GEMS.
Growing up in a family where the power of imagination was encouraged, Tash speaks to us how this formative experience has led her to challenge the status quo. This challenge has come through an exploration of self, an understanding of self and more importantly through expression of self. This kōrero is a wonderful insight for us all to think about how aware we are of who we actually are.
Helen has always known her why. This has been to have an impact in the health sector. Growing up this looked like becoming a doctor which would really match her Why. However, as she went through her University study she lived by the motto if I Don't Love it then Why Do It. With this motto she quickly realised that becoming a doctor was not the pathway at this point in time for her. This led her to embrace and get involved in oppurtinities that have extended her abilities, grown her abilities and enabled her to learn more about who she is as a person and the skills she can bring to the world. Today Helen is embracing her Why as a Consultant in the | Technology Strategy & Transformation/HealthPod at Deloitte.
Growing up as a Kiwi overseas, Aaron had to adjust to back to living in New Zealand as he completed his University study. On completion of his study Aaron returned overseas where he was building his career in his chosen field. This all changed when Aaron experienced his first panic and anxiety attack. This experience has lead Aaron to create a platform that provides education around Mental Health. In this podcast we talk to Aaron about how he has navigated this journey. Aaron can be found at www.talkingmental.com
Currently a PhD student, Lucy shares her story about being the first in family to attend University. Her journey from trying a few subjects to finding her passion, chemistry. In this conversation we also cover the importance of identity, the power of giving being but also acknowledging those that have helped Lucy getting to where she is now. This is a fabulous chat with someone who is going to make some amazing changes in the world.
Today we take a particular focus on mental health awareness week in New Zealand and how we can reconnect. It's important to remember everyone has mental health, and by talking to people about the good and bad, we benefit ourselves.
Owyn is a second year Data Science student, who is changing the world one device at a time. Owyn speaks to us about the company that he runs with his best friend Remojo Tech. A social enterprise company focused on getting refurbished devices into communities that have no access to them. We also speak about Owyn's other passions and the transition to University life.
Today we talk to Maya about her journey from growing up in Taranaki to running in America. She has had challenges along the way, but let the flow of running help her find herself, as well as achieving authenticity.
Tonight we unlock a very important milestone, EPISODE 50!!
Thank you to our special guest Troy Ruhe from The Sick As Podcast for coming on board, and for supporting us when we first started out. Plenty of gems in this podcast, most importantly understanding how to be comfortable with YOU
Despite the challenges Bo has faced along the way, there are plenty of positives to take away from this podcast. Bo has shown that circumstances don't have to stop you from achieving all you wish to achieve.
Despite being in low socioeconomic situations, Rachel talks about ways of not only embracing it but also overcoming it.
Maarie talks about her experience growing up Māori, and how the norms she experienced growing up would change as she moved into high school and now into work.
On today's episode Prajesh talks to Natasha about her journey, and how although she has always known she wanted to do psychology, she has combined it with other interests to get to where she is now.
Ali decribes his childhood, growing up having the responsibility of the family at a young age, and how these have allowed him to get to his current status.
In this short series we relook at Casey's journey of finding his passion with startups and community building. For the full episode, head back to episode 27 on this podcast platform.
Through dreams and perspectives, Alex-Zander reflects on Health Science First Year, Medicine, and his transition to physiotherapy. For the full episode, head back to episode 7 through this podcast platform.
Today we talk to Katie about riding the wave, and how even though your journey may change it doesn't have to be a bad thing.
Through the incredible things Emily has done, she shows that good and bad times are pivotal to bringing out our true passions.
In part two of Ethan's episode, we dive into the struggles Ethan has gone through to get to where he is today, and how he advocates for opening up, especially for our male audience.
In part one of Ethan's episode, we dive into his journey through school, with a particular focus on rugby. Tune in to find out how Ethan has got to where he is today, and how sometimes set backs can change your course in a positive way.
To celebrate Matariki in New Zealand, we identify that rest is needed to replenish ourselves. Faithing shows that it is easy to give to others, but we also have to be able to look after ourselves along the way.
Through culture and community, Melissa has got to where she is today. We often hear about the end result, but it is the journey which gets us where we are today. For the full episode, head back to Episode 21 through this podcast platform.
Sometimes it can be challenging to go through trials and tribulations, but Paeone allows us to see that through this we can find perspective and passion, which are both crucial in our life journey.
This morning we talk to Lachie about his journey to getting to Oxford, and how you never know unless you try. After all, what's the worse that can happen?
Today we talk to Eloise about how passions can change, and how we can love the small things that we often take for granted!
Today we reflect on Abigail's perspective on year 13 and how her transition has been since being in New Zealand. For the full episode, head back to Episode 16 through this podcast platform
Today we reflect on the first half of Episode 17, Gotta risk it for the biscuit, where Jenna shows us that knowing what you want to do takes time, and that you should take time to be certain in what you want to do. For the full episode, head back to Episode 17 through this podcast platform
Today we reflect on the second half of episode 15, navigation with purpose, where Cam describes who he is and how through routine we can ground ourselves. For the full episode, head back to Episode 15 through this podcast platform
Sonia shows us that a gap year isn't bad, being able to rest and identify her burnout through her degree.
Today we reflect on the first half of episode 15, navigation with purpose, where Cam describes who he is and how through routine we can ground ourselves. For the full episode, head back to Episode 15 through this podcast platform
Today we release a special episode, our first ever special guest! From Sri Lanka to Australia, Aran discusses his highs and lows, showing we should embrace doubts and find light at the end of the light!
In today's episode, we talk to Tiarne about how to look after you mental health, whether that be in obvious or not so obvious ways.
Hannah describes how to make change in dark times, and how light is often found in difference when it is unexpected.
Today we learn that is alright to be busy, but that sometimes busy leads to burnout. Patricia teaches us that sometimes you have to take a step back to go forward.
In today's podcast, we introduce two guests who have done the same degree, but had very different journeys to getting where they are now
On today's podcast we see that taking a different path shouldn't ruin your destination, and that mindset matters.
In our 30th episode, we see that knowledge comes from what learn, and you never know when you will use it. In addition, Andrew shows us the power of science communication, and how growing other's passion for science is how science will continue to grow.
In today's episode, Sophie shows that you can do incredible things simply by putting yourself forward and taking up the opportunities presented to you
Today we take a trip overseas to Australia, where Jess shows that it's often our life bloopers from which the perfect moments arise.
Casey shares insight into how he found his passion with startups and community building.
On today's podcast we talk to Aliesha, a devoted student who outside of her study has followed her heart, and in doing so found herself and her identity.
During today's episode, we learn that you don't always have to move away from home to change, and that sometimes home is good for support during a new chapter of your life.
As a graduate, Alby shares with us invaluable knowledge about how he continues to learn on a daily basis, but also reflects on the journey he has been on to get to where he is today.
Our incredible guest this afternoon shows us that so many positives can come from having a gap year, and that it's alright to take time to figure out what you are truly passionate about.
Our special guest today gives insight into moving from big city to small city, from home to university and how he is settling in as time goes on.
Kicking off 2022 with a bang, we talk to Melissa, who has an incredible story. Often we hear of the end result, but Melissa has gone through an incredible journey to get to where she is today
To round off the year we talk to Josh about the incredible opportunities he has taken through his journey
Marcus joins us for an amazing chat about the importance of knowing who you are and sticking true to that.
Abigail shares her viewpoints on year 13 and how her transition has been since moving to New Zealand
Another amazing guest joins our podcast to explain how we can navigate our own worlds with purpose
Tiara shows us it's alright to not know everything, and opens our eyes to the life of an international student
What's it like to live a diverse life? Tune in to listen to Dani explain how she leads her life
How do you overcome challenges in lockdown as a head prefect? Cameron explains his ways of coping
With our podcast's keeping on rolling, we talk to Laura about how you overcome struggles when life doesn't go your way
Hei whakanui i te wiki o te reo Maori ka korero maatau mo te tikanga o te maori me te pehea e pakaru ai te pokepokea ai
Another week means another episode. Quinn gives us insight into how it feels being a year 13 during this busy yet unpredictable time of the year
With not all students being New Zealand European, we spoke to Ruthie and Agnes about how they stay true to their pacific roots while navigating university
We thought we would talk to Alex about his dreams and perspectives about Health Sci First Year, Medicine and then his transition to Physiotherapy. Tune in to see just how important dreams and perspectives are
With Prajesh and I both being centred in Dunedin, we thought it was time to spread our wings. Listen as we talk to Dania about lockdown up north and how it feels to be a close contact
In this episode of baskets of knowledge, we look to see the opposite side of the story of two first year students who have gone home for lockdown. Tune in to see how they are coping and why they made the decision to go home
With New Zealand moving into level 4, it's time for a lockdown special. With our special guest Laura Kehely, we discuss what lockdown looks like for people in different situations and how we can get through this lockdown together.
Before lockdown occurred, we were able to discuss what happens in term 3 and what it means being in year 13 through Tane's experiences. Tune in to see the experiences Tane faced as a year 13 student.
Today we reflect on how we have filled our baskets before diving into some talk surrounding money, and changing the mindset about whether debt is a negative or a positive.
Tune in as we start our journey by explaining who we are and what it is we aim to achieve through the Baskets of Knowledge podcast