Everyday with Garage Gym NZ Podcast: Recent Episodes
Stefan Smith
Everyday will cover anything and everything. Yarns with everyday people, about life, fitness and living well. Realness vibes.
Finally, dropping this doozy as episode with the uso Albie Roebeck whom is also related to my wife! Mean as chat with the brother about all the areas of life that lifts him up - Navy, Boxing, Family.
We have a good talk about his early life and some of the challenges he faced; alcohol, ego, fighting and how he was able to rediscover himself by discovering a passion and pursuing it.
Albie is also a beast too, a few years ago he spent 60 hrs punching a boxing bag to raise awareness about mental health, tick done and he has continued to pursue physical challenges for himself, for others and to keep his mind and spirit focused and tuned in. He will be competing a Muriwai beach run with a ruck pack...it's only 50km long!
He also has a massive heart for others and talks about the work he does with troubled young people. He unashamedly addresses his own mental demons too.
He doesn't hide who he is and he lifts many people up too. He represents the essence of the corner man that you want backing you up without hesitation - Nothing changes if nothing changes.
Peace & Love
Follow Albie on his Instagram @albieroebeck
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Follow me on Instagram: @garagegymnz and Spotify: @everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to help me grow this community and empower more lives.
Finally and I truely really mean FINALLY...I get to drop this yarn with the brother Ryan O'Connor, Optometrist, STAG enthusiast, Podcaster and so much more....We had a great yarn about everything, all things, that thing and those things...we dissected life, sports, rugby contracts, life lessons, growing up, public health, living with purpose and happiness...and about 10 other topics! Ryan is a dude that you can just sit down with and enjoy learning, absorbing, debating the moments of life. It's a doozy 90min plus....SENZ Radio we are ready!
Peace & Love
Follow Ryan on his Instagram @ryanoconnornz and https://www.stagroar.co.nz/
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Follow me on Instagram: @garagegymnz and Spotify: @everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to help me grow this community and empower more lives.
Had a great catch up with the bro Corey Choat recently. This man has so much passion for what he does for so many people in our community. With the tragic lose of his sister in 2019, running has become a welcoming tool for him and it is also big factor in raising awareness around mental health and support, but also utilising it with his instagram page @runningforsal, to discuss being vulnerable and afraid to show your emotions. I
In 2022 on top of running daily, he completed a Speedo run up Mt Maunganui for @gumbootfriday and on the 10th December he ran for 607 minutes, 1 minute for every person lost to suicide. Emotionally and physically challenging for him, but his drive resulted in raising over $80,000 for Gumboot Friday!
2023 is upon us and Corey has more fun in store, but underpinning it is carrying on from 2022 and focus on mental health. He is creating a beautiful legacy for his sister.
Such a caring and thoughtful human, he has the wonderful support of his family and an unbreakable friendship with many. We are proud of what he does in memory of his sister Sally.
Peace & Love
Follow Corey on Instagram @runningforsal
To support the team at Gumboot Friday https://www.gumbootfriday.org.nz/
If you need support in New Zealand please reach out to the below
For free support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, please access:
Lifeline Aotearoa Incorporated
0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357
(HELP) for counselling and support
Youthline
0800 376 633, free text 234, email
talk@youthline.co.nz
Or chat at youthline.co.nz
Tautoko Suicide Crisis
Helpline 0508 828 865
What's Up
0800 376 633, free text 234, or webchat at
www.whatsup.co.nz (from 5pm - 10pm)
MEDICAL EMERGENCY
Call 111 immediately for any medical emergency
TALK TO SOMEONE NOW
Free call or text 1737 anytime to talk with a trained counsellor 24/7.
What an absolute pleasure to sit down with Kyle Divine finally. I have been a huge fan of what he does on the DIY front for home gym owners for a longtime. His creativity and passion is evident, his woodwork skill and attention to detail is brilliant and the tutorial options he has on his Instagram and YouTube is excellent.
Kyle is a video creator, podcaster, woodworker and home gym enthusiast. He created Kaizen DIY Gym as an avenue to combine all of these interests into a single outlet and help others in the process. Through detailed video tutorials, written tutorials, and the "Do you even lift bro?" podcast (thanks bro for the bio lol) he has created a fantatstic community across the world, where he shares not only his own creations but also creations from many other skilled DIY enthusiasts.
Thank you bro for jumping onboard and sharing where it all began and where it is heading.
Jump onto Kyle's platforms and pick up some amazing tips and hacks.
Peace & Love all
Instagram: @kaizendiygym
www.kaizendiygym.com
YouTube: @kaizendiygym
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Follow me on Instagram: @garagegymnz and Spotify: @everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to help me grow this community and empower more lives.
Welcome back to season 4, EP114, chapter 2023.
We kick it off with Harry Sanders @philsmarathon an absolute weapon on the roads, clicking km's and miles over like a Ferrari on the autobahn! Harry shares his why and the journey he has embarked upon in raising funds for school kids via @back2schoolprojectnz that give kids the best start and opportunity to thrive. He also shares the pain of loss and how he discovered tools to work through those tough times.
Harry also shares wisdom beyond his years, as well as his next gig - Muriwai beach run! Which will take place in April/May.
Follow Harry below on his insta and keep an eye on the Back 2 School Project.
Peace & harmony
Team GG
Insta @philsmarathon
www.back2schoolproject.nz
What started as a 30 day challenge on the 1st December 2021 to do the CrossFit workout Murph - 1 mile run, 100 pull ups, 200 push ups, 300 air squats, 1 mile run in a 20lb weighted vest - for myself to challenge my own mental fitness, mindset, personal challenges and to showcase Mental Health, Mental Health Awareness, quickly morphed into doing Murph for 365 days to champion the Mental Health conversation and to showcase the many amazing people that are doing so much to make life better for so many of us.
Welcome to the review, plenty of questions were asked and I have attempted to answer them with us much insight as possible. I hope you all get some positive take aways from this episode.
Huge thank you to Glen, Tamati, Rob, Joe, Zane, Justin, Ryan, Tomo, JMV, Jack, Corey, Maima, Bec, Joel, Jason, Wetta and the hundreds more that supported this voyage...and too my amazing wife and our daughters your love and encourage has been phenomenal.
Peace and Goodness
Catching up with Zane Munro is such a wicked experience, he has so much passion and drive to break the stigma surrounding mental health, but especially breaking the the cone of silence that surrounds men in this space. Allowing yourself to not be judged, to be vulnerable, to maintain dignity and to let yourself lean into others for support. Nobody is left behind, nobody is alone. Zane lives by these values.
Zane is the curator behind ForAllTheBrothers and the Host of Brain Chat which is supported by Ārepa. He provides a platform where men can come together and share their "pits" and "peaks", engage with other people whom have or are in a similar space of change, create connections and friendships. Zane shared his vision around Brain Chat and the relationship he has with Ārepa and how they both compliment one another.
Zane always shows his appreciation for the many other legends out their doing fantastic work in Mental health, but he is undoubtably a major shining light in this space. Unselfishly giving back in a huge way to so many brothers, dads, mates, uncles, husbands, fathers, that have needed a vehicle like this to feel safe and to openly talk about themselves in an honest and organic way.
Thank you Zane for sharing with us. Absolute pleasure watching you grow and the positive impact you are having on so many.
Check out Zane on Instagram @forallthebrothers
Check out Ārepa www.drinkarepa.com
If you need any support, wish to talk to someone please reach out or utilise the services below.
Peace & Love
:
For free support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, please access:
Lifeline Aotearoa Incorporated
0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357
(HELP) for counselling and support
Youthline
0800 376 633, free text 234, email
talk@youthline.co.nz
Or chat at youthline.co.nz
Tautoko Suicide Crisis
Helpline 0508 828 865
What's Up
0800 376 633, free text 234, or webchat at
www.whatsup.co.nz (from 5pm - 10pm)
MEDICAL EMERGENCY
Call 111 immediately for any medical emergency
TALK TO SOMEONE NOW
Free call or text 1737 anytime to talk with a trained counsellor 24/7.
Another gem of a chat up with the brother Kane Brisco the curator behind FarmFit NZ, Farmer, Writer and Thinker, sharing his thoughts and insights on a few topics - mental health; lining up a 100 km run in gum boots; battling COVID; writing a book "Tools for the Top Paddock" and shifting farms while living and growing - all that everyday good-life stuff!
Always a pleasure having Kane on the pod, he is an absolute hissing geezer with plenty of tools in the kit to share with everyone on how to turn negatives into positives. He breaks down the reasons behind writing a book, the time and energy that he poured into and the how it actually all came about.
Kane also delivers where it counts by putting others first especially I AM HOPE and WILL TO LIVENZ, earlier in the year he committed to running 100km in gumboots to raise funds for them....the effort and commitment he applied is phenomenal. He is one of the many unsung hero's in our community doing good for others.
Appreciate you brother, for all you have done and do everyday.
"Tools for the Top Paddock" - is available at all book stores and online
https://farmfitnzshop.com
https://www.iamhope.org.nz
https://www.willtolivenz.com
Peace & Love
Follow me on Instagram - @garagegymnz and
@everyday\_garagegym\_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the
show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to
help me grow this community and empower more lives.
Finally, got the opportunity to catch up with the champion, Guy Wills. He is an Alcohol Recovery Facilitator, curator of Right Mate NZ on instagram and a reels creator with humour and value!
I appreciated Guy, sharing his journey being a lad on the lash, living a 4 day weekend of alcohol and drugs, being the party clown who lived for the next hit on the tiles.
His decision to acknowledge that something had to change and that change came shifting from the UK to NZ 4 years ago, while not all smooth sailing for Guy, he has established a willingness to share his insights, to help and work with others who are dependent on alcohol and as Guy states clearly, Alcohol is a gateway drug.
It was a fantastic chat as we discussed the framing of alcohol as being sexy and socially acceptable; mental health and fitness; establishing a routine; and being open and honest about who you are, recognising triggers and working towards a better version of who you are.
Guy is available via Right Mate NZ on Instagram. Reach out if you ever need a yarn for great insight and support.
Thank you Guy for doing what you are doing and for being available to help others.
Alcohol and Drug helpline :
Nz : 0800 787 797
Au: 1800 250 015
Peace & Love
Follow me on Instagram - @garagegymnz and
@everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the
show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to
help me grow this community and empower more lives.
What a beautiful opportunity to sit down with Corey Choat the man behind @runningforsal
Such a honour to have Corey share the story about his sisters struggle with mental health and her passing. What the family went through, experience with the system and the inevitable heartbreak. This has prompted Corey to raise awareness around Mental Health via running and doing other events. He will be running a minute for everyone whom passed away in 2021 via suicide on the 10th December 2022 at the Whangamata Rugby Club.
We share our insights on being connected and remaining connected. How physical exercise has helpped us both to adjust our own mindset and address sorrow, pain and mental fatigue.
We share some love around a huge number of wickedly positive sites doing such great work in raising wareness around Mental Health, Mental Fitness and Mental Wellness - IAMHOPE; MENTALLNZ; FORALLTHEBROTHERS; HENDOSHOTTOPICS; BETTERTHANBEFORE; IGOTYOU and so many more.
Jump on his page and donate what you can on his givealittle page….but give this a listen share it and help us all continue to raise awareness around this social health pandemic that effects so many innocent souls.
Thank you Corey for sharing with us all.
If you need any support, wish to talk to someone please reach out or utilise the services below.
Peace & Love
:
For free support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, please access:
Lifeline Aotearoa Incorporated
0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357
(HELP) for counselling and support
Youthline
0800 376 633, free text 234, email
talk@youthline.co.nz
Or chat at youthline.co.nz
Tautoko Suicide Crisis
Helpline 0508 828 865
What's Up
0800 376 633, free text 234, or webchat at
www.whatsup.co.nz (from 5pm - 10pm)
MEDICAL EMERGENCY
Call 111 immediately for any medical emergency
TALK TO SOMEONE NOW
Free call or text 1737 anytime to talk with a trained counsellor 24/7.
What a great yarn with the brother Justin Amor, the curator behind Just Wild NZ and an absolute savage of a human being as well. If you ever wanted to hear an organic, truthful, insightful and at times straight up the guts yarn then jump into this where Justin shares a-lot of his life's lesson's and the wisdom he has gathered over the years of doing the hard grind.
We hit it hard on our beliefs around training, grit and pain, our philosophies and what drives us. Justin also shares insight on Season 2 of Just Wild NZ and what he has taken from it; which has been a more emotional and spiritual undertaking this time around.
We cross into Education, personal strengths and weaknesses, family, challenges and obstacle adjustment. All of which are linked into the mindset we design for ourselves. Our spark is in our head, our fight is in our soul, our grit is born in our heart and our resilience and toughness is for our families...its a fantastic yarn, it is long and deep, but incredibly rewarding and valuable for me and hopefully for you all.
Thank you Justin for sharing so much of you. Follow him on Instagram and YouTube. Links are below.
Instagram @justwildnz
Youtube
https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCw_6jqSshKMSkGNzD3ky0yA
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Follow me on Instagram - @garagegymnz and
@everyday\_garagegym\_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the
show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to
help me grow this community and empower more lives.
A great catch up with Kaz Adams, a man with a solid Twitter side profile and a huge passion for helping people achieve their very best by helping them to explore different movement patterns that will benefit them. Kaz isn’t restricted by following the normal script in Strength & Conditioning and that is so refreshing for the community he works with and what he has to offer.
He shares his insights on going out on his own as a new business owner and the fantastic relationship he has built with The Athlete Factory, where he shares the facility with them.
We have a great yarn about starting to move, body image and nutrition and being aware of who you are and discovering your happy place and being proud of who we are now and will become. Simply, Enjoy what you do and how you do it!
We also discussed mental fitness / mental health and how simply moving and surrounding yourself with good humans will have an immediate impact on your mindset. It is an area we both really believe in and it was awesome to get Kaz's insight and wisdom on this too.
So much value in here for everyone. Appreciated the opportunity to spend time on the mic with Kaz and finally massive kudos to Kaz's partner for being an influential driving force behind Kaz and The Collective Training whanau.
Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini
www.thecollectivetraining.co.nz
Instragram @thecollectivetraining
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Follow me on Instagram - @garagegymnz and
@everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the
show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to
help me grow this community and empower more lives.
What a treat having James Marshall on spitting yarns over the mic. The curator behind the incredibly successful What a Lad Podcast, ex-professional rugby player with the Hurricanes, Taranaki, Tasman Mako and London Irish, and now taking his talent into the coaching world with the Tasman Mako and next year stepping up in Super Rugby with the Crusaders...he is a talented human being!
It was fantastic to get his wisdom on playing code, managing a serious hip injure and transitioning into the next phase of this life and how What a Lad Podcast has helped with that transition too.
It has become an incredible vehicle for rugby players to share stories about how they got to the top, how they have managed years of playing in the rigours of a sport which can very unforgiving at times and the platform has enabled players to share there personal stories, struggles and their own transition away from playing - the rawness at times is emotional and sobering but the yarns are surrounded with loads humour and celebration of long lasting friendships.
We also had a good crack yarning about some code, coaching, mental fitness and the recently completed AB/Ireland series...we had to right!...loved this chat with a follow code lad, lots of value in it and sharing the mic with a damn good geezer is always a pleasure.
Thank you for sharing brother.
www.whatalad.com
@whatalad podcast is on all the awesome platforms
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Follow me on Instagram - @garagegymnz and
@everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the
show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to
help me grow this community and empower more lives.
A fantastic conversation with the legend Mitch Thompson a men's mental health advocate and the curator behind The Men-Tall Health Club. Mitch created this platform after experiencing the loss of a close family friend which lead to depression, as Mitch says 'the darkest of times'.
His mother-in-law recognised this and suggested talking to someone, unable to find an appropriate support group, Mitch set up MentallNZ as a space for men to share what was on their mind in a supportive space. He has now established a Monday night session via zoom and a WhatsApp channel for men to participate in a sharing and safe environment, where vulnerabilities are not ridiculed or judged.
We also openly discussed the incredibly high suicide rate and the fact that 75% of all suicides in New Zealand are men. What the government isn't doing and the high cost of seeing a counsellor if you are fortunate enough to get 3 free sessions. Its a sobering conversation but incredibly invaluable to have these open and honest conversations.
Mitch has organised 24hr Silence - Friday 12th August 2022 - a day of silence, a day to remember those we have lost to suicide, a day to reflect, a day to help create the change we're all striving to see! All the money raised will be donated to the RO Charitable Trust.
Jump onboard and register, lets keep raising awareness, lets keep taking and lets raise money for RO Charitable Trust.
Insta & FB - Mentallnz
We shared sometime with the incredibly impressive Jack Cambra Jr, owner operator, coach, mentor, philosophy of Fifty Barbell, O'ahu, Hawaii...what a life story! and we have only touched on a small part of in this episode.
Jack shares his early days growing up in Hawaii, playing American Football, following in his fathers foot steps into Drag Racing and then moving into strength and conditioning and 13 years later Fifty Barbell is thriving as a pure organic, what you see is what you get, effort on effort gym...all grind, all about uplifting and all about the athletes and gym members. Jack gives everything and asks for nothing more than hard honest grind and patience.
So many valuable pieces and wisdom Jack shares around having a strong value set that defines your gym and sticking to it...as Jack says, don’t compromise your programming to pay the rent.
He also discusses his philosophy around training young athletes and giving them the tools so they can succeed at a Collegial level and higher. It's is less about the athleticism but more about the heart, mind and soul being ready to achieve...all that combined and the strength, power and conditioning will flow unabated and grow exponentially.
We also touched on the work he has done in turning Stacia-Al Mahoe into a phenomenal powerlifting athlete...this requires a second episode!
So much more, but let’s just press play and enjoy the goodness of Jack's passion and wisdom.
Mahalo brother
Insta: @fiftybarbell
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Follow me on Instagram - @garagegymnz and @everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to help me grow this community and empower more lives.
What a fantastic catch up with Jack Henderson the curator behind Hendos Hot Topics Podcast.
He openly shares his story about being subjected to relentless bullying from a young age; adulting as a 7 year old while on supervised visits with his father; loneliness and having his identity stripped by his peers...happily Jack demonstrated resilience and discovered inner peace as he now shares his learnings and provides a space for others to share their own personal journey of self discovery.
We dived into bullying and the massive impact it has on young people and what the school system isn’t doing to address this issue. Also how a victim of bullying becomes the accused when they stand up for themselves.
As young as Jack is, he has lived a full life and I am forever grateful for what he doing and achieving for many others. He is a shining light for young people and he has so much more to offer.
Take the risk or lose the chance - Jack Henderson.
Much love everyone.
You catch Jack on the following platforms:
https://www.spreaker.com/show/hendoshottopics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeK-HLkm48jsR8Vp3xJSxmg/featured
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Follow me on Instagram - @garagegymnz and @everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to help me grow this community and empower more lives.
The power of social media and the ability to connect with like minded soul's is evident when we shared the mic with Curtis Weeks. A Mental Performance Coach, Author, Ex Royal New Zealand Navy and advocate for straight up honest chat with love.
Curtis has an awesome story, one that he owns, all the ups and the downs that have imprinted amazing qualities upon him. He shares his early life and how he navigated racism and bullying growing up, and how he joined the Navy, which came down to his love for water but also realising that he had a choice - end up in prison or join the navy!
Curtis freely talks about his time in the Navy and the lessons he learnt about leadership but also about how to build and apply a strong mind set.
His transition into becoming a Mental Performance Coach and the impact he has had on his clients - CEO's, business owners, Professional athletes and weekend warriors
So much more was blended into this pod. A straight up raw sophisticated conversation with someone I am incredibly grateful and blessed to call a damn awesome human with a massive heart. Thank you for sharing brother.
You can follow Curtis here
www.coachcurtisweeks.com
Insta: curtisweeks_me
Book: From WHY ME? to TRY ME
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Follow me on Instagram - @garagegymnz and @everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to help me grow this community and empower more lives.
Connection, Thrive and Passion....Chaz Clarke shares the mic with us to discuss this and a lot in between. It has been a hot minute since we last spoke and it was great to hear what he has been up to and where he is heading.
He lives life at a hundy...opens a Crossfit gym in 3 weeks, owner operator for 5 years, sells the Crossfit gym during COVID, sells his house, buys a new house, starts another degree majoring in Design, commits to doing a number of endurance events for social causes dear to his heart and then Chaz tells a great story about running a marathon around the streets in Tauranga; after doing a morning workout and completing a presentation at Uni; just because he wanted to and all fuelled by a banana, one Powerade and one gritty mindset!
Chaz's energy levels are high, but his work ethic is phenomenal he knows what he wants and goes for it...but underpinning this is having a passion for whatever you are pursuing.
Also touched on the next phase in his life, which is completing his Degree in Design and pursing a career in the creative space around Brand Performance or as we described it Brand Renovation! He will be a guru in this space, 100%.
And finally, Chaz has one of the dopest Garage Gym's in New Zealand...has all the bells and whistles and has an amazing mural by Ashin @ushy_ushy
Chaz trains like a weapon, pursues his passions, thrive’s in multiple settings, and is passionate about what are truely important to him - family, friends and living life as a good human citizen. He is truely connected.
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Follow me on Instagram - @garagegymnz and @everyday_garagegym_podcast
Email me your questions as I would love to answer them on the show - garagegymnz@gmail.com
I would be blessed if you could please leave a 5 star review to help me grow this community and empower more lives.
Welcome to the one-hundredth episode!
I had considered doing this by myself but that would have been a very short episode, so I enticed my good friend Tamati Norman to join me and he proceeded to take control for this episode and flipped the script, putting me on the other end of the mic. It was fantastic to share this time with him as he was the first person we had on way back in April 2020 just as NZ had entered into its first Covid lockdown…it was a rough first session and we have come forward greatly since then.
In no particular order we discussed a multitude of things, which have shaped me to whom I am today. The ups and the downs, changes that have occurred, lessons learnt…we start way back when I grew up in a small fishing town, Bluff! A proper small town kid, whom eventually made it to Otago to study and play rugby; the grief and trauma of my career ending abruptly and the 6-8 years of darkness that engulfed me as I struggled with the loss of identity and the sadness of never being able to play rugby again…but during this time I shared some goodness too, like becoming the U20 national 4 x 400m champion’s against all the big money teams….who would of guessed that Southland would have 4 young men dominating the 400m scene in NZ…no-body!
I shared the background behind Garage Gym NZ, my philosophy on passion and dedication how they are equal and neither can be better alone you need both to thrive….Tamati also got me yarning about coaching young men in rugby and teams within the corporate space - the impact of growing others and leaving a legacy piece for leadership growth and internal transition.
We also discussed my family and the incredible positive impact my 2 daughters and my amazing wife have had on my life. I owe them everything.
So much more to add, but listening to this should give everyone a sense of who I am, why I love the garage gym scene, mindset, lessons recieved and the impact I am hoping to have on Mens Mental Fitness
Finally, thank you to all of you whom have shared parts of your life me and others. I am forever grateful for your kindness and openness to share and engage. Without you all this wouldn’t have got to 100 episodes. It has given me greater insight and understanding…it has also given me invaluable friendships that I cherish and truly do appreciate.
Live life with fearless compassion.
Enjoy team. Peace and much love.
Stefan
An absolute pleasure getting to spend sometime with Jaxon Tippet, getting to know a little bit more about him and what he believes in. He is an online coach with a massive following, a podcaster, an achiever and a good human-being.
So many great sound bites to take away from this yarn with Jaxon. Especially around how we need to love ourselves for whom we are - believe and achieve.
He also shared some great advice regarding supplements and supplement taking...the pro's and the con's. We also talked about steroid use and the great take away - if you wish to go down that pathway make sure you have a good coach that understands the process. Grateful for Jaxon's honesty on this subject and that is him to a tee, he is able to share his learnings and pass them on. He is all about improving communities and seeing others grow. An advocate for mental health and well-being.
This is the first of many chats we will have going forward as Jaxon has a lot of knowledge we want to dig into and share with you all.
Enjoy everyone. Much love.
Stefan & Jaxon
www.jaxontippet.com.au
Insta: @iamjaxontippet
Podcast: @i_am_me_podcast
So grateful to share the mic and time with Nick Betar the curator behind The Betar Project Podcast. He is an advocate for crushing the stigma around mental health and tuning into mental fitness as a vehicle to address and encourage a positive change in yourself, via various tools - reflection, journalling, breathe work and establishing a routine
So many great sound bites in this episode as we flowed comfortable over a number of over important areas that we share and have lived - the impact of social scrutiny of professional athletes, your eco-system (circle of strength), living with regret, forgiveness and parenting.
I really enjoyed this one and had a fantastic time getting to know the very humble and great Nick Betar. Appreciate you brother.
Final takeaway from Nick....Practice gratitude everyday.
Enjoy everyone. Much love.
Stefan
Finally, nailed Cambell Te Paa down for a decent yarn about a lot of good-stuff he has done and he is continuing to do, for himself but for so many others in the community.
We flow into his invaluable insight on education and recruiting students to attend University, he shares his own upbringing and the importance of education his parents implored on himself and his 2 brothers and he how has applied that in his role.
Also good banter around training, the importance of strengthening your physical and mental soul, but also sharing and supporting others. He also endorses doing a marathon row, once in your life!
Cam, shares his journey to becoming a helicopter pilot and the lessons learnt along the way - resilience, self-determination and the pursuit of happiness in learning and achieving.
In-between all of this he has travelled, lived, worked, studied and started a business before he turned 27!
He isn't chasing happiness highs; he finds happiness in experiences and being fearless in his ability to learn and achieve without regret.
A wise head on young shoulders.
Enjoy team. Much love.
Stefan
Rob Holah of Industrial Athletic shared the mic with us, and what a pleasure to have a yarn with him. An absolute legend in the fitness industry over the last decade or more. From being a Fireman to owning and supplying some of the finest fitness equipment you can get in NZ.
He shares where it all started...sourcing fitness equipment for his mates and fast forwarding to outfitting Crossfit boxes, Commercial Gyms, Schools, Professional sports teams and Home Gym owners all across New Zealand.
Rob shares his incredible knowledge on Barbells, Kettlebells and cardio pieces..a special episode going into the manufacturing of equipment is a must in the future...we also had a good yarn around our own training - Josh Bridges; and doing Inception and The Hopper Deck...IYKYK!...and other doozy stuff too.
Rob also drops a few of NZ's CrossFit legends and shot putter into the mix as well!
Loved this conversation, his knowledge, passion and chillness is amazing. So much more to be shared, a second round with Rob will be done.
Thank you Amber for giving him up for a few hours.
Enjoy team. Much love to all.
Stefan
Recap:
The home gym life - Murph, 100 days:
1.6km run, 100 pull ups, 200 push ups, 300 air squats,1.6km run in a 20lb weighted vest - this journey is not finished, this is but the first chapter...more to be told, more will be done...You Can Achieve Anything
An episode that is a review, reflection, gratitude, a thank you and a mixture of what has been during completing Murph for 100 days and what will be in the 2nd chapter.
The cause, the purpose - Mental Health Awareness - giving it a voice, playing a small role amongst the giants leading the charge.
Much love everyone.
Stefan
Just a wee take away about Murph at day 98, lessons, redemption, purpose & The Man in the Arena...its all about growth and acceptance of what you were and who you will become.
Peace and much love.
Me
We have another great sit down with Zane Munro, the curator behind For All The Brothers - a platform for men to be inspired by others but also an opportunity for many to share the mental health journey they are on.
We talk about the nuances of life and the pressure that is applied upon us and how it is so impactful, especially when - finances, relationships, children and work - are involved and how we need to embrace simple tools to release the pressure.
Zane shares his insights on the phenomenal high suicide rate in the Trades Industry among men (1 male a week)....staggering statistic, which when asks the question - How many are really struggling?
As always, Zane is fully committed to bringing the conversation of Mens Mental Health to the fore, to embrace real conversations and to break-down the barrier of 'not showing your emotions', but share your fear, your hurt and open yourself up, be heard and heal.
Hope this resonates with you. We are here to hear from you all. Much love.
Stefan & Zane
Insta: @ForAllTheBrothers
Had the pleasure of being on the opposite side of the mic with the immaculate Ryan O'Connor the host of 'The Stag Roar Podcast'
An absolute legend of the Podcast scene in NZ and a proper geezer from the deep south, who has had the privilege to sit down and yarn with some absolute cracking people.
His own back story is pretty wicked - trained Optometrist; love of sport; a curious mind; exploring the nature of success; dad and now resident in the mighty Tokoroa.
So much covered, diffidently something here for everyone...and head over to The Stag Roar Podcast and appreciate the brother honing his craft.
Enjoy everyone and much love.
www.stagroar.co.nz
Insta @ryanoconnornz
This is one of these chats you really look forward to having. James Lubonski is doing the CrossFit workout Murph for 365 days...as well as holding down a full time job as a Police Officer, Husband, Dad, Coach and Business owner. Being dialled into every aspect of his life is testament to his incredible grit, drive, determination and passion.
At the time we spoke he was on 257 days, as well as wrapping a full training programme into the mix too! He was open with his PTSD and how physically pushing himself gave him peace, comfort and a place to recover.
We fought through the Internet connection and I rambled on far too much, but he was a champ, sharing his insights on training, nutrition, tips on Murph - preparing and he also gave me a quick serve about palm guards - they are on there way pal lol
He also has a desire to give back to the first responder and veteran community via Black Flag Performance and has a few plans in place after completing Murph.
I love what he is doing and how he is telling his story and sharing the journey. A phenomenal man doing and giving so much back to others.
Enjoy team and much love.
Follow the drive below and his crew
Insta: Jimbobroski
www.blackflagperformance.com
www.gceperformance.com
Www.victorygrips.com
"First Pasifika woman promoted to Pro Vice Chancellor level at Auckland University" a significant and empowering moment for Jemaima Tiatia, and more so when you are the FIRST, and this is not her only significant role, she also is one of 6 board members sitting on the Mental Health and Wellbeing commission. We dive into both areas - Education and Mental Health and Wellbeing. Firstly, we talk about her role as Pro Vice Chancellor Pacific, and while it is Acting only and for the next 6 months, it has already had a positive impact in the Pacific community; the opportunity to guide and influence with a Pacific view at the top table will be impactful and one she is up for and well geared for.
Being the 'First' Pacific Female is empowering and the ripple effect has been instant throughout the Pacific student body and Pacific academic staff at Auckland University, we celebrate this as well.
We also jump into her other substantive role, with the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission. She shares insights, observations and words of wisdom. We also openly talk about the hidden illness that surrounds us and touches all corners of our communities. It can be sobering to hear but enlightening to get a sense of where we are and how small steps, openness and sharing are tools for identification and recovery.
Thank you Jemaima and enjoy team.
Peace and Love
What an absolute pleasure sharing time with Joe the curator behind Illuminatiiron. An elite private training facility based out of his garage in San Diego. Joe's frequency and drive is phenomenal. Open, honest and straight. He shares all aspects of his life, training, the good and the bad...its bloody infectious.
Joe shares his insights on the overall benefits of movement and the immediate positive effect it has on your internal well-being.
We have a great chat about the Crossfit workout Murph and the impact it has in America, but especially for the service men and women deployed abroad.
We also discuss the horrific injure, Joe endured in August 2021 - Torn Distal Bicep Tendon in both arms — and the long road to recovery. Insightful and full of positive messages about keeping yourself moving forward and documenting the process. It isn't seen as a set back but an opportunity to learn and grow, to come back better and stronger, mentally and physically.
Joe is full of life, wisdom and passion. He is a talisman for what is awesome in this world and he is just a damn good man, doing beautiful things for many others.
Much love to all the deployed service men and women abroad - Joe & I
Enjoy
I had the great privilege of sharing the mic with Dr Glen Davies, Medtech GP of the Year 2021 and having him share his crusade on reversing T2 Diabetes and the power of Low Carb Healthy Fat, Keto and Intermittent Fasting. Glen has done an amazing service in the community he lives in after he was challenged to 'do better' by a patient 3 years ago. Glen openly talks about that moment when his view on nutrition changed...and what impressive work he has achieved since then in helping 132 patients in 3 years reverse their T2 Diabetes.
Glen has an incredible passion for changing peoples lives, views and understanding of nutrition. We talk about the impact Big Farm has on all of us, the weakness of the current nutrition story we have all been sold and the devastating effect this has had on our society.
We also dived into Ketogenic, Carnivore and Intermittent Fasting, what they are, how to find balance with them and how they can positively change someone's life.
Fantastic conversation, incredibly enlightening and educational in understanding T2 Diabetes, but also the role sugar and processed foods have played in fuelling this terrible disease as it devastates peoples lives, families and communities.
We also celebrate the successes Glen and his patients have had as a result of his consultation and support for them. Glen has had a phenomenal positive impact on many and we are incredibly thankful for his work and service.
Enjoy everyone.
Peace and much love to all
www.reversalnz.co.nz
FB: Reversal NZ
A quick recap on why I am doing Murph for 100 days.
Murph is in honour of Lt Michael Murphy, whom was Killed in Action, protecting his team in Afghanistan in 2005:
The workout:
1 mile run
100 Pull Ups
200 Push Ups
300 Air Squats
1 mile run
*20lb weighted vest optional
The premise behind doing Murph is to rise awareness around Mental Health and the impact it has on individuals in our lives. I have suffered and now I know many others have as well. Nobody is alone. Its ok to not be ok. Don’t suffer alone. Seek love and support. Review your life to live your life as the best damn version of yourself.
I saw Murph as an ideal clip on to our Movember Podcasts. Physical and Mental endurance, an opportunity to seek clarity, to drain my body of the daily BS. If this ordinary man could turn the impossible into possible, then anybody could seek their own greatness, their own clarity and strengthen the resolve in themselves. Its Murph for 100 days.
Lets build greater awareness around Mental Health, make it MATTER,
Join all the Mental Health Warriors and get after it.
Reach out to these awesome people on Insta
@forallthebrothers
@igotyoubrotherhood
@mentallnz
@_buildabrotherhood
@beatty_ave_fitness
@voicesofhope
@iamhope_nz
@farmfit_nz
Much love to all the brothers and sisters
Had a fantastic time chatting with Justin Amor our very own Kiwi Bear Grylls, the adventurer and producer of Just Wild NZ. A man of intent and action, never idle, always moving forward.
Touched on what Just Wild NZ is and the philosophy embedded in it. The sustainable aspect of living off the land and the self discovery of one's self when on top of a mountain or in a ravine. The ability to strip away all of the richness of urban living, for the raw sophistication of nature and just yourself.
Also shared some great thoughts around mindset and our ability to adapt and adopt under various situations, physically and mentally. Removing the BS from one’s life to unveil growth and the hidden doors to a better purpose.
Justin shared his 100 Murph’s in 100 days, the pre-training, the purpose which changed after 50 and the sorrow at the end of completing the last rep on 100 Murph’s.
Best to just listen to the words. So much soul food in this one and so much gratitude for the opportunity to spend so much time with the brother.
Enjoy team and much love to everyone
JUST WILD NZ - YouTube
@justwildnz - Instagram
Fantastic catch up with Glen Martin in sunny Nelson, from a Garage Gym facilitator to becoming the latest Crossfit owner of Tasman Bay Crossfit.
Had a great yarn around the goodness of exercise, what Crossfit means to us both and what it has provided us. Interesting insight as to why Glen and his wife decided to dive into co-owning a Crossfit box and its clearly about the passion for the sport and the good feels of the community.
And like previous yarns we rolled into multiple topics, Murph, Dubai Crossfit, Challenges, Life and the meaning of....well things and stuff.
Such an awesome dude, free spirited, decisive and caring. A great brother to know.
Enjoy the kiwiness of this one. Much love to all.
www.tasmanbaycrossfit.co.nz
This week we share the mic with the very impressive brother, Damien Nikora. Photographer, Creator, Mormon, Survivor and Ethical and Sustainable fashion crusader.
Damien shares his passion for photography, encouraged at Church College, developed and enhanced in Australia, empowered in New Zealand. From shooting high-end fashion models; cancer survivors; embracing his Māori culture through the lens and now championing ethical and sustainable fashion. A wonderful insight in how far you can take your passion.
We also delve into the dark period for Damien, after the family return to New Zealand. Facing a number of challenges, the biggest one was depression and the immediate impact it had on him and the people he loved. He talks openly about the pitfalls of Prozac and the awful impact it had and how he was able to pull himself up and forward by finding his inner youth, purchasing a $20 TV and watching a documentary on the pitfalls of Prozac. Rediscovering himself, at a time that seemed almost impossible for him. It is a sad and beautiful story and one that many will appreciate.
We also tapped into a number of his passion projects and the brave stance he has taken to remove himself from 'Fast Fashion' and to only work with ethical and sustainable brands.
So much more needs to be said and this is only chapter 1. Damien is honest, straight up and free in his assessment of his life. It is wonderfully enlightening. Thank you for sharing brother.
Hope everyone enjoys. Much love to all.
www.damiennikora.com
insta @damiennikora
A tad late due to technical issues...work and life; but here is the last of the Movember chats with the very resilient, passionate and adventurer - Tamati Norman. I have known him for 20 years and I have seen him grow, seen him fight and seen him create. The hurdles he has had to navigate have been phenomenal and at times unbelievable. Through all that he has faced he has been an wavering friend to many, he has dreamed big and he has battled demons and won. He is a resolute friend.
Big focus was on Te Ao Māori the past and the benefits. He also shared the journey he and his wife went on to have a child - IVF, Adoption and the sorrow, but then the joy of having a baby girl after many years or self doubt.
Also had a good yarn about the importance of friendships, champions in your corner who are in the mud with you. How incredibly beautiful it is to have a core group of people who see you, who help without you asking.
He expands on his latest business Pure Health Delivered and the benefits of nutrition and fuelling your body and brain.
As is usual with Tamati, the conversation is all comma's, no full stops. It is always enlightening.
Thanks brother. Much love.
www.phd.co.nz
Another great catch up with the bro Ben Thompson all the way down in Dunedin. Last time we spoke was in June and how things have changed for us all since then.
Ben has a simplistic view on living well, sharing easy to live take-aways via his on-line True Academy : Health and Fitness simplified.
We had a great chat regarding our own learning issues with dyslexia, the labels thrown at us and how potentially damaging that is for anyones mental health and well-being. Ben also shared great info on training and building consistency, nutrition and resetting your mind to build positive outcomes over and over again.
We also had quick catch up doing Murph....Well me doing murph throughout December for Mens Mental Health.
Finally Ben touched on his True28 Challenge kicking off on Monday, 29th November .
We packed a lot of everything into this one. Insightful and thoughtful words of wisdom from the very awesome Ben Thompson.
Love your mahi and passion brother.
www.trueacademynz.com
insta: @coach.speedy
I have had the honour of knowing Paul for a few years and his development as a Wellbeing educator and the growth of his business Clifftop Wellbeing - weaving wellbeing science, so we can all thrive - has been inspirational. So, what better person to have a great chat with, as we learn and share thoughts and we get some great responses about some of the issues that men face today.
Emotions, gratitude, love, compassion, self-doubt and 'beat-down' that we engage with ourselves are weaved into this session and Paul also discusses growth mind-set and how we can de-construct the brick walls we build as a result of fear, failure and being caught up in the social beast of comparing ourselves - the filter life.
Another engaging pod with Paul, blessed to have him onboard and share his insights, but also to hear the passion and wisdom he has garnished over the years.
Enjoy brothers and much love to all.
www.clifftopwellbeing.co.nz
Had a wickedly awesome chat with the brother Tomo Chisnall about his long boarding expedition from Cape Reinga to Bluff, loss of loved ones, grieving, homelessness, drug addiction and coming out of it, to share his journey, his learnings and the gratitude he has for the people that have supported him....So many awesome take-aways for all in this episode.
Press play and listen to soul touching insights from a brother that has touched rock bottom and climbed back up again.
Much love to all the brothers
Insta: @IGotYou
Zane Munro the curator of ForAllTheBrothers shares the mic with us and what a insightful man, a honest raw discussion around men's mental health. The struggles he has tackled and the work he continues to do on himself, as he says, "be honest and vulnerable".
It was a pleasure to share stories and to identify, that we are not that far apart in experiences, issues, vices and thinking. Zane's own experiences around depression, escapism and life was sad and beautiful as he opens up on where he is at.
Zane has a massive passion for mens mental health and hope that we are on the right track forward, as more men openly drop the filter and open up on there own struggles. His platform ForAllTheBrothers is a must follow, he is leading a change for all.
The brother is doing wonderful things and it was absolute honour to meet him and to share the first part of his story.
Much love bro.
Insta: @ForAllTheBrothers
A honest conversation with Kane Brisco about a whole lot of subjects that hit home deep with me. We do a deep dive into going through a separation and the grieving process around not seeing your children, how we got over this and how we are still working through it. The mental and physical challenges and the toll it can take on you.
Kane shared his upcoming goals and passion projects a Charitable gumboot run for 100 km and a book his writing about life and lessons.
Also shared his journey with a spiritual healer, the tools he shares to deal with the downs you may experience and the many, many lessons he has learned over the years.
Honest, sad, funny and thoughtful....We hope this episode resonates with you.
https://farmfitnzshop.com
Insta: @farmfit_nz
Fantastic chat with the uso, Joel Amosa. The man behind Beatty Ave Fitness, which has empowered and encouraged so many people. His free bootcamps, offer the opportunity for people to challenge themselves physically but also for them to share, talk, connect and seek support in a warm friendly environment.
Joel, is a massive supporter of Men's Mental Health and the need for open dialogue, especially among the Pacific community. He does this with a full heart. Great insights from a bloody awesome man.
Enjoy team
Insta: @Beatty_Ave_Fitness
Having good people in your life is a key part of living well and the lads, Jason and Jack based in Aussie are proper good ANZAC's. I am glad they were keen to jump onboard and kick start this.
Great yarn about life, Movember, challenges we have all faced, with loads of great takeaways from 3 geezers trying to live better as men and for the people around us.
We also spat out some gym stuff too!
Thanks gents, you bloody legends
www.blackboardcoffee.com.au
www.movember.com
We are back on the mic, after a stint away doing life, new house, new job, new pandemic!...And what better time to return, Movember, something that is very dear to my heart and soul.
I will be spending the entire month dedicating yarns, with insightful people — talking, laughing, learning, growing and going deep into the areas of Mental Health, Anxiety, Fear and Challenges...listening and embracing all that is damn beautiful about the human soul, but also hearing the sadness and learning about the fight.
This is just the start, I am hear to learn as well.
Lets be the change. Lets save a bro.
Peace & Love
I had a brilliant catch up with Ben Thompson, who has returned home after many years coaching and mentoring athletes and weekend warriors in Kuwait and Dubai.
Ben's sporting CV is extensive - middle distance running, a 5x Coast to Coast athlete, a regional CrossFit athlete in Australia and Asia and a bit of rugby - and he is an all round excellent human.
Ben shares his learnings and lesson's around being humble to seek help, competing, coaching and working in the Middle East.
We also touched on his return home and the transition back into NZ life and the new journey he is embarking on with www.trueacademynz.com an online coaching platform - True Skill; True Sweat; True Coach - where he shares his passion for fitness, movement mastery and empowering others to achieve their very best
An absolute weapon of a dude. A southern lad. A coaching guru. Highlanders fan.
Enjoy team
Insta @coach.speedy
What a blessing to have an opportunity to hear from the great and wonderful Tasha Whelan aka Iron Wolf. She has a rich history across multiple strength disciplines, with powerlifting being the key one for her.
It was fantastic to listen to her about coaching and the mastery of movement philosophy she coaches. Well worth absorbing the knowledge she shared in those moments alone!
We also explored the 3 key lifts - Squatting, Deadlift and Bench Press - fault areas and how to fix some of these faults.
So much more is shared in-between my own ramblings and the internet choosing and dicing us up at times; but beside that, this was by far one of the most informative yarns from a fantastic strength coach that everyone will be able to grab a take-away.
Enjoy,
Follow Tasha @ironwolf03 Instagram
Had a fantastic catch up with a couple of good gents based in Australia, Jason & Jack. We had a decent chat about training, goals, discipline and how it rolls into our own lives; especially the role discipline plays and the value exercise provides for mental crispness.
Jack gave us a good overview of his training blocks, Verve fitness, and the goodness of Blackboard coffee.
Jason announces that his wife is expecting a 2nd in a few weeks, finding a new workplace that he loves and the benefits of training for his soul and mind.
We also, broke down Torian Pro, the performance of the athletes, the organisation of it and the community vibe that was on display.
A great yarn about things we are all passionate about.
CIO - Round 3 in 6 weeks
#chiefironofficer
Had a great zoom sit-down with Matt Hawkes the CEO and Designer behind the Railtrainer Fitness. An idea and product he has been partially developing and sitting on since 2011. In 2020 as a result of the Pandemic, Matt lost his job and dived into turning the Railtrainer into a reality.
He talks about those early stages, producing it, being a fledging business during the Pandemic and the lessons he learned. We also covered off the benefits of owning a Railtrainer, from its small footprint to the multiple ways that it can be applied in a homonym, CrossFit gym, hotel room...the uses are endless.
Matt also shared his plans around adding the plate stacker to the already established pin system, and the develop of a smart app to assist with rep counting.
The fitness industry is booming and a lot of innovation has entered the space. Matt is one of those innovators, producing a product that is small and easy to use for all.
Enjoy the chat team.
www.railtrainerfitness.com
insta @railtrainerfitness
It has been 10 months back in New Zealand for Zoe, and it was great to catch up with her and have a good chat about adjusting back into the NZ lifestyle, contentment, Art and Hunting.
Not your everyday subject matter, but thats what this is all about. Zoe loves being back in NZ, she has an amazing talent for art and is super passionate about hunting.
It, was great to get some more insight into the meaning of art for her, the work she is doing with young people and the prints and pen work she is creating. Also we had a decent yarn about hunting, especially about female hunters. It is something Zoe really enjoys and she finds a level of peace and contentment in hitting the bush with her friends, on the pace for more honestly earned organic food.
A damn good catch up with another cool human
@_zoesartwork check it out
Had a great time catching up with Joe Gray, garage gym connoisseur, powerlifter, all round good dude and the curator behind the Garage Gym Competition.
As is typical with most of the yarns I have, we split the time between, life, lifting, training and it is in this space that you discover how similar our philosophies are. Joe is a moderator on Reddit for the Garage Gym community, while holding down a full time job and raising a family, he created the Garage Gym Competition for anyone to compete in, for fun, for the community and to give away epic prizes.
Joe gives us a great run down about the competition. It is incredibly simple and free to enter for anyone worldwide! He has done an incredible job in creating it and seeing it grow from 200 to 1200 competitors in 3 years; it is now in its 4th year with $30,000 in prizes, who wouldn't want to enter for free!!!
Enjoy team
www.garagegymcompetion.com
Also check his instagram out @garagegymcompetion
We hit the 1 Year mark and look back on what it meant to share so many stories, to connect with new people and to experience some of the journeys they have been on, but most importantly has been the learnings shared by us all.
I never envisioned embarking on this journey, it has been incredibly rewarding getting to know so many people from all over the world and in New Zealand too. People with varied backgrounds, careers, visions but the commonality that connects us all is the care, passion and love they have for uplifting not only themselves but everyone else around them.
I also answer a few questions that people fired through and talk a bit about where to for Garage Gym NZ in 2021 and beyond.
I am incredibly grateful for the support everyone has shown Garage Gym NZ.
Blessed beyond words.
C.I.O - Labour omina vincit
Finally had these 2 gentlemen Jason and Sam, Chief Iron Officers, garage gym advocates and damn good Aussies living the good life, on for a yarn.
A great catch up where we had a good chat about equipment, training, injuries, dealing with 2020, performance enhancing drugs in sport, lifting iron and well a whole of bits and pieces that happens when you catch with friends. They have great insight in equipment, setting up a home base...they have experienced fantastic customer service and super bad delivery of equipment, so they have a wealth of knowledge in this space.
Also these gents are 2 of Verve Fitness finest equipment buyers too (lol), always updating and adding new pieces to help achieve internal goals.
If you are in Aussie reach out to these 2 doozy dudes, they have a a great line of sight on the garage gym scene in Aussie.
Jason @tinonee_tough_house
Sam @garagegymaus
www.vervefitness.com.au
Had the great pleasure to catch up with Wetta Nuualiitia again. A proper undercover brother, 2019 Natural Mens Physique, open heart surgery surviver, leader of WPerformance, health advocate and family man.
We reflected on 2020 and the positive outcomes from it and the direction he is taking for 2021/2022 and the ultimate goal of competing at the Toronto Pro Super Show in 2022.
Had a good chat about his training and blending in different methodologies to challenge his body and also to address motivation and boredom, especially during the lockdown period we have experienced.
He also introduced his Core Strap which is available of pre-orders. A very interesting tool to consider for lifting and general workouts, check out the details below.
Another great chat with a very good human.
Enjoy team.
Check out his insta pages:
@wperformance_
@wettaatheathlete
Another great opportunity to sit down with FarmFit NZ's Kane Brisco and talk about his role and 2021 goals for FarmFit NZ and the community he has created. Also had a good yarn about farming and the future of farming in New Zealand, the impact of technology and the changes this is having in the industry.
And in between all of this we had a good yarn about the important things - music, literature, gratitude, grit, racism, attitude, impact of a growing world population - a proper blend with 2 Kiwi lads sitting down and chewing over a few hot issues, a few cheeky matters, but everything is about what touches aspects of our lives.
Always a pleasure to sit down with Kane, who has a great perspective on living well.
Enjoy team
@FarmFit_NZ on Insta
I had a great time getting to know Shannon MacLachlan who was inspired from her experiences to develop TrainHer Athletic Performance; and along with her husband Hamish MacLachlan they are owner/operators of Kaituki Adventure. An almighty powerful duo.
We touched on Shannon’s career as a PTI in the NZ Defence Force and the shift to Perth where she began her civilian career as a S&C Coach, first for the Western Force Super Rugby team, then working with private clients and her time on the Surf Life Saving scene and Youth Development within this sport.
A shift back to NZ in 2017 to raise their children as “kiwi” kids, soon catapulted Shannon back into S&C Coaching with the NZ Warriors Women’s team and during this time the development of TrainHer Athletic Programme, which offers a digital realtime platform for anyone, to train anywhere, anytime.
It was also great to her Shannon’s experience around training women, developing youth athletes and the different between energy systems for men and women. Also great insight around the menstrual cycle and how she programmes accordingly for this.
We also had a good yarn around gender inequalities for roles within sports teams. A area which needs addressed in NZ.
So many damn awesome takeaways and so many really important educational pieces that have filled my knowledge bank.
Enjoy team it’s a doozy chat
www.trainher.co.nz
www.kaituki.co.nz
Awesome to sit down and get to know this young man Naitoa Ah Kuoi; Chiefs and Moana Pasifika rugby player, a father of twins, involvement with Unicef, his mindset and what drives him forward. He is on!
We dive into, life, parenting, living, code, back to life and then more code, as is the way here...so after 3 takes, 2 days of editing, slicing and dicing we have this mash up of goodness.
What really struck me about Naitoa is his level of maturity and the drive he has to succeed, one which he has carried with him as a young boy. He takes onboard lessons and learning, adapts and applies to a mindset that is tuned into winning, for himself, his team and his young family.
A damn good man, great father and fantastic rugby player.
A great talanoa with Naitoa. Looking forward to watching him achieve even more on and off the field in 2021
Manuia le aso
Had a great time chatting with Hamish MacLachlan and damn he has lived a full life; from a remote part of central New Zealand he joins the Army at 17, serving in both the New Zealand and Australian Defence Forces over 2 decades and with a truck load of knowledge learnt and earned, he is now domicile with his family, operating Kaituki Adventures in Central Otago which focuses on Hunting, Marksmanship, Leadership, Resilience and Life; his wife, Shannon also runs a successful Strength and Conditioning Coaching business TrainHer TrainThem Athletic Performance as well...they have it covered on all the fronts!
As is typical with these yarns, we weave all over the place...ok thats me weaving and Hamish jumps on for the ride! Fantastic yarns around military service, leadership, resilience and the 'Triangle of Excellence' - such a valuable and simple tool for everyone to pack away.
Also, touched on mental wellbeing, being an ex-serviceman/woman and the transition into civilian life. Looking forward to watching what Hamish and Shannon develop in this space.
Such a good dude, can't wait to get down and have a brew with him, lift some iron and roll out for 3 day hunt.
Enjoy team
www.kaituki.co.nz
www.trainher.co.nz
Had a great catch up with Ben Parore the owner of Rā a CrossFit gym which is embedding te reo māori into the core philosophies of fitness, well-being and uplifting people. Ben is also passionate about maramataka (the lunar cycle) and how this maybe applied into coaching as well.
We touched on coaching and the rewarding components of sharing and up-skilling people; how he started in fitness - from the encouragement of his friends, to coaching at F45, to staying the course and believing in what he wanted to achieve.
Also had a chat about challenging fears and Ben shares a wonderful story of his NYC marathon experience, competing in the Māori Ironman and learning to swim during an event!
Ben is deeply proud of his Māori heritage and the opportunity he has in sharing his kaupapa / philosophies with others. He is passionate, caring and a damn good bugger.
Me mahi tahi tātou mo te oranga o te katoa
ra.hauora on Insta
Take 2…after blowing the first recording, we were finally able to sit down and catch up with Matt Norris owner of Invigorate Gym and Massage Guns NZ.
A load of awesome insights and takeaways from Matt on - starting out in the fitness industry, the business of owning a gym, the ups and the downs, what to focus on, when to seek help, how to work with your membership, equipment needs v want. Key takeaways for me where, know your numbers, your areas of strength/weakness and work within your risk appetite.
We also had a great yarn about Massage Guns NZ, how it all started and where it is heading in the future. Like any entrepreneur, Matt has diversified into a number of areas within the fitness industry and is continuing to explore and to expand into new areas.
Damn good bugger and he is doing fantastically well; all out of a small gym in Henderson. Proud of what he is achieving for him and his family.
Enjoy team
www.invigorateauckland.co.nz
www.massageguns.co.nz
Had the great opportunity to sit down for a few minutes with Darren Ellis, affectionately known as the ‘Godfather’ of CrossFit in NZ…but so much more than just that to the man. He has a genuine care for the people he works with, physically and emotionally developing people to live well, to live longer and to enjoy life.
He has immense knowledge in the fitness industry, with 13 years as the owner/operator of Crossfit NZ, he has competed at the highest levels as a competitor, he invests in learning and challenging himself and he has phenomenal range of motion!
We zigged and zagged through a range of topics — coaching, mindset, training, future of fitness, pitfalls and a few random stories in between.
Daz is a pure student of fitness — evolving, developing and teaching — blessed to have a chat with him and wishing I had asked more…but that can be another episode for next time.
Enjoy listening to Daz and me as Darth Vader!
www.crossfitnz.co.nz
Had a fantastic chat with the very affable Mikki Williden a Registered Nutritionist.
We covered a few areas that are passion points for both of us — obesity, health star food rating, diets, impact of influencers, culture and environments — she is writer, blogger, podcaster and the nutrition guru for many people, and her knowledge is amazing. I learned so much more and got a real appreciation of how we see nutrition and also how we should approach food.
This is Part A, Mikki and I will come back around the mics to discuss nutrition for performance, the benefits, the pitfalls and the difficulties of remaining in the nutrition zone before, during and post completion.
In the meantime sit back and enjoy the knowledge being dropped by Mikki.
www.mikkiwilliden.com
mikkipedia - podcast
We kick off 2021, with fantastic chat with David Accardo the curator of Stix and Stone, the maker of DA concrete plates and dumbbells, based south of Houston in the great state of Texas.
David has a lengthy background in strongman, strength coaching and working with athletes across the spectrum from High School to Colleges to Professional, so Stix and Stone was natural fit and it was also born out of the necessity to keep training and coaching during the early stages of the pandemic. What started as a self fulfilling purpose to continue doing what he loved, has grown into a fantastic E-Commerce business selling moulds for plates and dumbbells around the world, with over 2,000 plus happy customers to date.
The most rewarding aspect for David is that not only has he created an opportunity for himself but he is sharing this opportunity with everyone else to make plates and dumbbells for others. Paying it forward has never been so appropriate and illustrates Davids generosity.
I had a great time talking with David, about this project and other DIY pieces he has created. A damn good dude with a rich heart for sharing and helping others out.
I look forward to having him onboard again.
Enjoy.
www.stix-and-stone.com
@stix_and_stone_ on Instagram
Had a fantastic chat with Kane Brisco the curator behind FarmFit NZ, a Diary Farmer, husband, father and good bugger from Taranaki.
He created FarmFit a “community bootcamp’ for the surrounding rural area of Ohangai, connecting people via physical activity and utilising implements that are part of farming life. Kane also is a big advocate for change in mental health and how we see it and how we can all be advocates of positive change - building resiliance, eliminating short cuts, embracing hard work and cutting the BS out of peoples lives - it was a straight up yarn and he is doing an amazing job as a role model for the rural community, but also for people worldwide.
A kiwi as conversation, a few “in your face” topics, some hot sauce on a few things, but one hell of a proper good bugger, doing brilliant things for other people. Kane is opening the door to honest conversations without feeling less of a person; being vulnerable is ok. Strong mind, strong body.
Great opportunity to talk with Kane, who is all about doing the do, enjoy everyone.
Insta: @FarmFit_NZ
What a wicked week, drawing the giveaway, travelling down to Papakura to drop off all those goodies to Brian. The support from everyone was absolutely phenomenal and showed how much giving is in our community. Also, Brian is a doozy dude who has been on his fitness journey to shed the weight and to embrace a healthy lifestyle for himself and his family. So, why not have a quick catch up with the man and learn a wee bit more about him, his why.
Mālō le taumafai
Enjoy team
We had a quick catch up with Madeline, after she had won the NZ National Crossfit comp in Cambridge. What an achievement for her; an 8 event comp, against some of New Zealand's best female athletes, a buzzy atmosphere and some monster workouts.
Again our convo zigged and zagged between the comp, debrief, mental approach, post-recovery, Xmas, 2021 season, PhD, food security and my 3 year old daughter making a brief pod debut!
Always good to have yarn with passionate people and especially with Madeline.
Advanced apologies, the sound drops in and out a couple of times...NZ's wifi can be so blah as!
Enjoy team
We had the fortune to touch base quickly with Chris Gale the curator behind 1600 WODs and what a backdrop he provided us, in between operating and coaching classes at CrossFit Kenko!
Chris discovered CrossFit by inflicting Cindy upon himself, fell in love with CF, studies for his L1, has a major operation (life saving), opens his own CrossFit Kenko, COVID hits...he decided to put all of the workouts he has programmed from day one into a book...welcome to 7 years of Chris's life and what an awesome return.
Chris is a damn good bugger and the book is sophisticated simplicity, so much so that anyone will be able to utilise the programming, tailor it to your level or need and/or blend it into your current training. Such a great tool, get one ASAP.
Insta: @1600wods
Fantastic chat with Dudely Tate a Forensic Psychiatric Nurse for 21 years. He is now currently leading a mental health unit designed for Māori patients, and the only one in New Zealand.
Got to chat about his upbringing and the journey he took towards working in Māori mental health. Also, touched on society issues we face, the increasing rates of mental illness, the benefits of an indigenous focused health team, fitness and the positive benefits it has on your mind, and the rewards fitness has given Dudely.
So many interweaving conversations in this one and one that is filled with a ton of takeaways for everyone. Great time spent with an awesome guy, learning more about the current state of mental health in New Zealand, especially among our Māori people.
Hope you enjoy this one.
Another great chat with Chas about his passion for creating Lets Leadnz, which is focused on bullying and the ramifications it has on so many people in our communities.
Entwined in this yarn, we discussed mental health, social media, impacts, our responsibilities as people, learnt behaviour and aspects of 'why' people bully.
Also, Chas is undertaking a 32 hour challenge, split evenly between 16 cycles on a concept bikeerg and 16 functional workouts, to highlight and create awareness around bullying. This is going down on the 10th December, 11am - 11th December 7pm, at Concept2, Tawa Road, Mt Maunganui.
Hope you all enjoy this one and feel the inspiration
Insta: @lets_leadnz
What a pleasure to spend some time with the very humble Stanley Cocker - 2 x NZ Strongest Man, Powerlifter, 7th at the Arnold Classic in Columbus, Ohio, a record holder, husband, dad and a lifter of really heavy things!
Awesome getting to know a wee bit about, how he started in strength sport, training, body maintenance, nutrition, the push from his sister, the support of his wife and the amazing NZ strength community that have supported Stanley's journey to the top of the sport.
It is said that, "Success isn't given, it is earned", and Stanley has most diffidently earned his success; over coming injuries, fitting a busy life into training and competing; there is so much more to come for him, bring on 2021 and 2022.
Enjoy team
What an inspirational chat with Dr Emma Ropati née Chang Wai. From living in a garage with her family, Mangere College alumni, attends University of Auckland on a full-scholarship, admitted into Medical School, graduates with a Bachelors in Medicine and Surgery, practicing GP in Mangere, mother of 2 boys, wife to an awesome husband and....fitness advocate, you have to check her insta out doctor.lingling_fat2fit .....take a breather!
Emma, shares so much good stuff. The value is knowing she is doing what she set out to achieve, for herself, her family and for the people in the community she lives in.
Hope you enjoy this as much as I did.
Following the theme we are highlighting in November - 60 men, 60 minutes, 60 lives - we caught up with Ephraim Gudgeon, New Zealand's 1st Pro Wheelchair Bodybuilder and had a great conversation about how he has overcome his disability, how self doubt can creep in, but how he has applied key anchors which have helped him to over come the mental and physical challenges he faces.
An incredible straight up chat about suicide, building a community of people around you, facing your fears with support, finding strength in the gym and also stepping up for yourself.
Plenty of takeaways, laughs, honesty and strength. Enjoy and don’t be fu*king shy, reach out brothers and have a yarn!
I had a fantastic chat with Brayden Green, a vegan for 10 years and a competitive athlete as well in; rugby, bodybuilding, weightlifting and CrossFit and as his insta says, "likes to eat plants, to lift heavy things"
I learnt a lot about the why, how and where to go too if you are embarking on a Vegan lifestyle and the stigma attached to the lifestyle; but also how society has changed and how mainstreamed the Vegan lifestyle is now - greater choices in supermarkets, online options with Hello Fresh, My Food Bag, even Burger King and MacDonalds are dropping Vegan goodness.
And lifting iron is still a massive part of his life, coaching, training and competing. Brayden has plenty of fresh challenges in play for 2021, as well as being available to chat with anyone who needs advice on training and being a Vegan. Humble and approachable.
Hope you all enjoy this yarn, with a damn good bugger.
www.boomboxblenheim.co.nz
www.pranaon.com
Had a great catch up with Luke Fiso, 5x NZ CrossFit champion, New Zealand's fittest man; but he humbly describes himself as an average athlete! That is the great thing about Luke, he down plays it beautifully but he has the fire, experience and the fortitude to switch it up when it is game on.
We touched on a few things, especially disaffiliation and the community consideration that was behind it. Also where it all began for him, tearing it up at a globo gym, training, competing, strategies, TBT WODS, nutrition and the future, especially for up and coming CrossFit athletes in NZ and his desire to give back and help them achieve on the highest stage.
Until that time Luke is enjoying life and looking forward to 2021 and hitting the international stage once again, he isn't finished taking on the worlds best.
www.instinctfitness.co.nz
www.clusterfitness.co.nz
Ana Moceyawa is a shining light for Pacific people. An accomplished athlete who has represented NZ in 3 disciplines within the combat sport field and she now has her eyes set firmly on the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
There is more than meets the eye when sitting down with Ana. A proud Fijian woman, raised in New Zealand, who took an opportunity to attend a sports school in Berlin, Germany to enhance her Judo skills for 3 years; competes in the Judo Bundeslegia; earns a blue belt in BJJ; and picks up wrestling from her good friend Tayla Ford…New Zealand’s most recognised wrestler…if you are out of breath now then this is Ana's life, her passion.
Succeeding on the greatest stage of them all is her focus and without a doubt, Tokyo 2021 is that stage. She has fantastic support around her, determination in abundance and the willingness to sacrifice social activities to ensure she gives herself the greatest opportunity. In the world of wrestling, New Zealand is a minnow; but as we all know New Zealand has the uncanny ability of creating history and Ana could very well add to that story. We believe she will.
Enjoy the yarn.
I was fortunate enough to meet Madeline at the recent Redemption Invitational Comp, and she was super accommodating to have a yarn with us about her 2 great passions - Academia and Crossfit.
Madeline shared her love for Food Security and what lead her to pursue a PhD in Māori Health. It was a deep enough dive to establish many of the health and social issues we as a nation face today stem from colonisation, food security and food sovereignty - well food sovereignty was my clip on! - and a desire to research this area and seek solutions for future generations is phenomenal.
We then had great chat about competing on the floor as one of NZ’s elite female Crossfit athletes. Where it all began, training, goals, setting up strategies in competitions; the upcoming teams and individual Crossfit Nationals and the good vibes she gets from being in an environment she absolutely enjoys.
Madeline, has accomplished so much already, but she is only scratching the surface as she pursues and excels in Academia and elite Crossfit.
There is some absolute truth in, when you discover your passion it becomes a measure of pride and happiness and Adam, the creator of Garage Gym Lab, is achieving this in abundance.
We had a great chat about the fast growing Garage Gym community, the innovation which is taking place within the fitness equipment industry, training, buying off Facebook marketplace, equipment in NZ and getting good pieces here. We also spent sometime discussing a number of awesome companies who are doing great things in the fitness industry; and finally setting up a garage gym from scratch…what this is all about. So many valuable gems here for everyone to enjoy.
Adam is super accommodating and a damn good dude! Check out his instagram, website and YouTube channel, all with amazing content, reviews and inspiration.
www.garagegymlab.com
Insta: Garage Gym Lab
YouTube: Garage Gym Lab
We had a quick catch up with Dene Flude the head honcho for the Redemption Invitational Crossfit Comp; where the top New Zealand, male and female CrossFit athletes have the opportunity to go head to head 8 weeks out from the National Individuals final in early December.
Looking forward to seeing these athletes get amongst it on the floor...lessgoooooo
Rugby is very dear to my heart and to have the opportunity to have an awesome chat with Moana Leilua, was too good to pass up. She is the Player Development Manager at the Melbourne Rebels, and prior to this she spent 6 years at Counties Manukau Rugby, managing the mens 7's team and the Counties Manukau Steelers Mitre 10 team.
Moana has craved a career in a male professional setting, managing and working with All Black, Fijian, Samoan, Tongan and Super XV players. She is one of only 3 women to ever manage a team at Mitre 10 level and in 2018 she was 1 of 2 managers of Pacific decent!. Moana has broken ceilings and is paving a pathway for women and Pacific peoples.
I have so much admiration for Moana as she works tirelessly to ensure professional rugby players are healthy and wealthy; that they are secure for the next stage of their lives and that they have the support required to compete at the highest level.
The Melbourne Rebels have also reached their first Super Rugby Final ever. Moana is involved in firsts on many fronts.
Fa’afetai tele lava, Moana
www.melbornerebels.rugby
'Genuine relationships will fill your cup', Astley Nathan is all about that. I had a great time catching up with this young man, so much energy and passion, who has a real purpose about life and where it is taking him.
Raised by a single parent, attends an all boy boarding school, awarded a full scholarship to University, persevered for 2 years post graduation to get the one opportunity in Radio, Flava morning announcer, content creator, curator of Korero 100, embarks on a 60 day digital detox, which is life changing for hime....vision and ideas in abundance.
He is true to himself and to the values he carries, and this podcast explores some of this and the layers that make Astley who he is today.
Enjoy.
Somedays you have moments where you are floored by an amazing experience and the positive vibes are flowing through you. I had the great honour to sit down with Tiare Tawera and the outcome, well, it was one of those days!
A fantastic time sharing and learning about his journey and where he is now. The ups and downs and the ups again. The choices made and the lessons taken onboard. We weaved in and around growing yourself, intellectually, physically and spiritually; the how too and the why not.
Everyone will get something from this podcast, it will benefit and enhance your life.
Live a life of gratitude.
www.tawerafitness.com
www.theawakeninglite.com
Had the opportunity to sit down with this young man, Caleb Marsters whom has submitted a PhD focusing on the mental health and well-being of young pacific men pursuing a career in elite sports. An area I am invested in, as a ex-athlete, as a coach and community member. Caleb shares some of his findings and we talk freely about the decisions young men have to make and some of the reasons behind those decisions. We also touched on the pursuit of money, identity, addiction and if you don’t make it, how this has an impact on them. This is the tip of a wider conversation we will explore in the forth coming months, but in the meanwhile enjoy hearing about Caleb’s research.
Had an amazing chat with Drew Cavner the creator of American Muscle Products, where he restores iron plates and breathes a new leash of life into them with amazing colourful designs for customers across the USA.
Drew was kind enough to share his back story of how he got into painting iron plates, the process that he employees and the passion he has for ensuring he is always delivering high quality vibes. Also, dived into some awesome non-related fields - UFC and the upcoming Adesanya v Costa match, Boxing, Covid-19, Social issues and Politics! Such a fantastic time, listening, learning and sharing.
Appreciated the opportunity and the time, with an outstanding person. It was a doozy chat.
Insta @americanmuscleproducts
Finally, I had the opportunity to sit down and have a good talanoa with a very good friend Dr Jemaima Tiatia, a Public Health specialist, advocate and leader, who, has a great passion for the health and well-being of Pacific and Māori communities with a strong focus on suicide.
We also touched on a number of issues which have been in existence for a longtime, but in recent weeks have really surfaced with speed in New Zealand, as a result of a 2nd wave of Covid-19; social inequities, education, racism and how quick we are at pointing the finger or to fuel rumours via social media platforms.
Insightful, educational, heartfelt and honest.
What a fascinating young gentleman, Luke Powell is. At 22 he has already done so much and accomplished more than most. He is driven, thoughtful, insightful and has an incredible sense for business and hard work. He is also driven to produce the very best fitness equipment and to become a leader in this field, not only locally but internationally.
His business Powerhouse Fitness, based in Hamilton is run on lean principles and product excellence. They are also the only barbell producing company in NZ and Australia! His knowledge and ability to learn, ask, develop and thrive is phenomenal. I learnt a lot about, steel quality, machinery, barbell building...super interesting.
Luke is a remarkable young man and we can't wait to see what Powerhouse Fitness produces in the future.
www.powerhousefitness.nz
Insta @thekingofgaragegyms
Had the honour of going for a 2nd round with Tamati Norman. Damn good dude who has a decade plus experience in the food industry, working in indigenous settings, starting companies up, not taking NO as an answer and finding work arounds, around the work arounds...key word to describe him PERSEVERANCE.
We have a good chat about the entrepreneur spirit, drivers for him, his families history in producing food and an honest discussion regarding 'are we losing our understanding of food'. Also we dig into his latest venture The Keto Food company, the why, how and the vision for it; which he has been developing over a number of years.
Its a good yarn with a good bugger.
www.theketofoodco.com
What a year it has been for the Chief Iron Officer, Jason Goodwin and the Tinonee Tough House. 1 year old, new equipment on the regs via Verve, Rogue and various other treasure finds; training improvements; on-line lifting comps; health and well-being through the roof and just a general good bugger to yarn with.
Jason was our 3rd Podcast and its fantastic to see the transformation that has taken place for himself and the impact he has had on others in the tiny community of Tinonee. He has embraced training full on and pays it forward without hesitation.
Strong communities are build on the foundations of good people doing good things without wanting anything in return. Jason is a community builder, supported by his wonderful wife Meg and daughter Matilda. Great catch up with the brother.
Enjoy
This is a journey and some with Zoe Brake. An amazing story which has gone full circle based on her simple philosophy of 'following your passion'.
Whakatane raised, NZ Golf representative, joins the Navy, takes up a golf scholarship at Ohio State University, competes a Fine Arts degree with Honours, teaches art at a social immersion school, falls in love with CrossFit, finds an amazing family away from home at CFP Fitness, comes back to NZ, parks up in a hotel for 14 days due to isolation protocols, and heads back to Whakatane to the family business Clucking Good Farm....catch your breath, everyone.
It is honest, informative, open and with so many good vibes. Zoe's infectious personality is amazing and as she has done already, she will continue to touch and light up many people's lives.
This is how you live your life. Welcome back, Zoe.
Check Zoe's Insta @_zoesartwork_
What a fortuitous connection to have with Joel Amosa. Super humble, incredibly talented with a huge heart and soul for helping the people around him to achieve better health and wellbeing outcomes, by opening his garage gym up to the neighbourhood.
We had a great chat about his journey from South Auckland, to Dilworth School, to Otago University to pursue his singing education and then becoming the 2018 Lexus Song Quest winner. His great love for music, the appreciation of what Dilworth School gave him with the support of his mother and his pursuit for excellence as a singer.
Also, we touched on his unwavering passion for pursuing health and opening up his journey and garage door to others in his neighbourhood to walk the path with him for a stronger, healthier life. As well as being a husband, dad and a friend too many, the support of his wife has been paramount in all he has achieved.
Fa'afetai tele lava, uso.
Enjoy
It is such an honour to learn about people and the journey they choose to go on. Wetta Nuualiitia, HAS a journey...heart surgery, redundancy, commitment, a promise made, family, goals, training others to achieve better health outcomes and winning the Natural Mens Physique in 2019, thus earning his pro-card. All done from his garage gym, with 100% support of his family.
We dive into all of the above and get to know Wetta and where his passion is. I get to understand a bit of what it takes to push your body and mind to hit the stage and compete as Natural Athlete, training, diet, cheat meals and we also get to chat about Wetta Performance and the 6 week programmes he runs for people wanting to turn their lives around.
A lot packed into this one. He is incredibly humble, with a fantastic story and I look forward to sharing a pepperoni pizza with him.
Enjoy
Insta @wettatheathlete and @wperformance_
What an absolute humbling experience talking with Ephraim Gudgeon about this journey as a free spirited newly married man, then in one moment he loses the ability to walk and then becomes New Zealand's first IFBB Pro-card wheelchair bodybuilding athlete. He is candid about his situation throughout the entire time we had together and it was awesome to connect with him on a number of levels.
Ephraim will achieve much more in his life; his purpose and journey has only begun, with the support of his amazing wife, family and friends he will change peoples hearts and I believe be instrumental in establishing a fantastic platform for other wheelchair individuals to pursue anything they want.
Insta @ephgudge
Had the great privilege to catch up with Dene Flude, fitness entrepreneur, athlete, business leader and doer with a massive heart for seeing people from all walks of life succeed on there fitness journeys. Discussed where he began and how, Ultimate Body Transformation kicked off, the evolution of CrossFit Iron Paradise under the same roof as UBT and how it all intertwines and transcends across a large portion of the local community.
We also delved into Dene's latest venture, Cluster Fitness NZ a company which will offer New Zealand more equipment options to fitness enthusiasts, and, how they have also become the major sponsor for the up coming New Zealand Nationals - Individuals and Teams.
In Dene's spare time he is running a number of competitions to show case CrossFit athletes in New Zealand. The man is incredibly busy, but has a passion for what he does, which is infectious.
Enjoy this yarn team, it's a goodie.
www.ultimatebody.co.nz
www.crossfitironparadise.com
www.clusterfitnessnz.co.nz
What a joy it was to catch up with Dan Ford, Performance and Organisational Psychologist and Sleep Expert. He has a wealth of experience working within NZ Defence Special Operations Forces, as well as the Auckland Blues, Northern Mystics, NZ Men's Olympic Endurance cycling team recently and many other high performance teams throughout his career.
It was awesome to get his take on what is 'GRIT', resilience, culture, environment and his thoughts on sleep and the importance of it to enhance your 'gains'. Fantastic to learn more about areas which play a massive part in our lives.
I hope you enjoy this chat as much as I did.
www.thebettersleepclinic.com
www.thriveperform.com
Fantastic to catch up with Danny Tran from Infamous Strength in Hawaii. He has a huge passion for powerlifting and a phenomenal garage gym, which has featured several times across Garage Gym accounts. It's all about being humble and sharing his facility with his friends, what a blessing to feel his kindness and vibes for opening his garage. He dropped some great tips around equipment, shipping and doing it right. Also, Danny gave a perspective on Sorinex and Rogue equipment and also being aware of environment factors (sea salt and its corrosive impact).
Looking forward to our next catch up. Mahalo.
Insta @infamousstrength
What an absolute delight to spend some quality time talking to Heather and Hamish off The Lifestyle Block, Clyde, Central Otago. Fantastic couple who are all about intuitive training and intuitive nutrition. After many years involved in a variety of sports and Crossfit, they have found an alternative way of living well, listening to their bodies and eating good food! They also built an amazing gym on their property - they work with clients, small groups and help them to achieve obtainable goals as well as passing on a wealth of knowledge so the clients don't become dependent upon them. Such refreshing insight! They have a lot to offer, take the opportunity to reach out to them! Enjoy
Insta @the.lifestyle.block
The good vibes sure did continue as I finally had the opportunity to chat with Emery Ford the creator behind the Garage Gympire Instagram based out of Dallas, TX. She offered great insight into the current Covid-19 situation the USA is still under, the Black Lives Matter movement, Crossfit HQ and what is happening in that space from her perspective and where Garage Gympire grew from and the home based gym culture which is growing Worldwide. Such a good chat and learnt a lot more about worldwide issues that we all face. How insightful Emery was! Enlightening
Instagram: @Garagegympire
It sure has been an interesting time in the World! After the last 12 days of absolute craziness coming out of Crossfit HQ, we thought who better to bring on and go round 2 with, none other than Chas Clarke, ex affiliate owner at Crossfit Alliance and still current CrossFit coach. We jumped straight into what is going on, where the future of CrossFit is, what this may mean.. and, will we see real change? The key take away from Chas is 'stay true to your values' as the Crossfit community considers and works through what has been tabled.
Also delved into what the effects of covid19 has had on people and where 2020 is at. Hope, patience and action we agreed is required for everyone to uplift 2020, as we live in a world full of the unknown.
Enjoy and let's continue to learn.
What a fantastic vehicle podcasting has been, meeting & the chatting with so many wonderful people, and Sam Ki fits that bill. A pharmacist by profession, all-round good dude by choice and a wonderful advocate for Garage Gym owners worldwide. Pearls of wisdom for anyone wanting to set up a garage gym or home gym - instant take aways! He shared his journey into fitness, nutrition, tips, pit falls and being in the right place at the right time to score some incredible pieces without breaking the bank.
If there was an A - Z on owning a garage gym Sam would be a contributor! Champion chat with Sam.
Insta: @garagegymaus
Sometimes you learn a lot more about someone by spending quality time with them and listening to their story, and this was just the case with Carel Smith - Super Mum, Educator, Trainer, Mentor, Transformation competitor, novice Bodybuilding champion and so much more. So awesome to hear, listen and absorb her passion, drive, and purpose for doing what she loves, and the sacrifices she and her family have had to endure. We also touched on the grit it takes when you tackle the beast that is bodybuilding, the post-comp downside and her philosophy of sharing and supporting others to achieve their goals too. I don’t know how she does it, but there she is. Listen to her story
fitmumz.co.nz
What an absolute pleasure to have the opportunity to chat with Rouge Athlete 7x IPF World Champion, Kimberly Walford. So chill and inspirational, with incredible self belief, to create the best version of yourself. Touched on her passion for the sport of powerlifting and a potential tilt at Olympic inclusion; training; weight cutting; diet and having a mindset etched on self-improvement.
What a great way to start the week, catching up with Jason Zawadzki from the UK. Plenty of fantastic topics covered, Lock down, Thai Kickboxing, Crossfit, Olympic Weightlifting, Strongman to training, eating plans, weight-loss the garage gym life he now lives and everything else in-between.
Packed a lot into this one, the man has a lot of IP and knowledge to share. Such a great catch up with an amazing old friend, who also proves that age is no barrier by pushing himself and seeking out new challenges.
Enjoy.
So cool to finally have a chat with Freeman and Ted, policemen in the Hawkes Bay, great mates who love pushing each other in their fitness journeys. Fantastic to sit down and hear from them both about what they are doing, how Freeman's garage gym grew and the training they do together and the philosophy of sharing and encouraging others. Good men, with good hearts.
Also touched on the journey Freeman and his family are undergoing with his oldest daughter and her brave fight with cancer. The importance of brotherhood and having someone there through it all.
Awesome sit-down with Chas Clarke. We spat a few yarns about his journey into fitness, learning and then applying this into building CrossFit Alliance, we also touched on his new journey in Creative Design too. Informative and knowledgable on so many levels and a lot of great sound bites for business start ups, pursuing ones passions, fitness and garage gym set ups. He has packed a lot into his life already and his spirit and drive to excel clear. A great chat with a good man.
@two.creativ
I can honestly say this one for me pulled on the old heart strings & I was so grateful to have had an awesome and long overdue catch up on the wire with Big Worm, Tamaha MacDonald, currently domicile in Mexico! We got into a yarn about rugby coaching in Mexico, Zuu training, COVID 19, life, and the ongoing and drawn out fight for his wife’s life Jen with Mexican health authorities to secure crucial medication she needs. Even amongst all the chat there was room for laughter. Incredible hope and faith that we can all learn from.
Great to get a minute or 50 with Takoha Ropati, NZ Touch Player in the mix and open men’s teams, Proud Mangere citizen, Te reo advocate and community builder for all, especially the less fortunate and elderly. Brilliant insight into how he changed his mindset for a healthier life and to become and continue being an elite NZ touch player. Incredible Grit, Heart and ability to take on advice no matter how tough and make a positive change in his life.
Enjoy the yarn
An eye-opening, hard hitting, right in the real feels, kind of conversation, with the one and only Jan Zabawski aka Yushu or better known as Guru of Gainz! We covered numerous topics.. Family, education, training, CrossFit, human nature, reading and faith. Which for him underpins everything he has been through and where he is heading, for himself, and his family. There is so much more to this man than meets the eye, and the sheer grit and determination to persevere, I take my hat off to you. Enjoy
Another absolute pleasure and great chat with this young lady, Kiriana Wairau-Hunter! We covered her aspirations and Hockey goals, working, diving and her current te reo journey + the value of hard work to her. An absolute leader who will find a way and pave a way for many. We wish her all the best with the path she is on and look forward to catching up in the near future!
Another fantastic opportunity to catch up with Matt Vaccarelli of Axios Training and Performance, Hartford, Connecticut
We talk about the training he incorporates with his youth athletes, how he prepares them for various stages of their sporting journey and career as they mature. Also touched on building expectations in young people, garage gym life, kettlebells and running! The heart of the man clear, as well as his passion to make a change and add value to the future generations he coaches. Enjoy team
Axiosperformance.com
We have been on the go with the chats & podcasts, been awesome insights & hearing everyones stories. We have been humbled & so grateful to you all for your time and sharing your lives with us, but also tuning in. We are definitely looking forward to all future chats and also catching up with previous podcast legends. Just a quick Q&A session, with the wife and quick reflection of our podcast so far. Enjoy team
Another absolute legend. Such a fabulous opportunity to have a chat with an old work colleague, Crossfit coach and the mastermind behind Whiteboard Daily, Karl Eagleman. We touched on life in NZ, coaching, training alone, rugby, and all the is good about his Whiteboard Daily works. Storming the fitness industry with stick figure drawings and easily digestible movement cues!
Thank you Karl for your time and your insights. Enjoy team
whiteboard daily.tips
Another massive opportunity and chance to catch up and have a fantastic chat with Kaz Adams aka Performance Capital. We talked strength & conditioning, athletes, young people, 8-12 week challenges, nutrition, Brazilian Ju-Jitsu and how he and his partner train together with 2 young kids. Insightful, thoughtful and an absolute pleasure to catch up with this man. He has it on lock and I’m inspired by the man he’s become! Tune in and enjoy
Rawfitnessbop.com
The beauty of these podcasts is not only the great chats we have and the calibre of people we get to meet and chat with but also the ability to share a yarn with good friends who inspire you, Welcome to the Podcast Mr Eli Reupena.
Devoted Father, other half of the beautiful Jamie, Boxing Enthusiast, Coach, Great man and friend. Talked about life, kids, lockdown, training and a whole lot of boxing. Don’t be fooled, intelligent is his middle name, chat for days and incredibly grateful to have such great mates in our lives. Pleasure to have the bro on the wire.
The man himself, Glen Martin. A sparky, husband, Crossfit enthusiast and garage gym owner from sunny Nelson. Great chat with this good chap and the passion, evident.. We spoke about his Crossfit journey, travels, setting up the garage gym & training. Great tips on how and what you should clip the ticket on when it comes to equipment. Thank you for joining us and enjoy
NZ Softballer, Olympic Weightlifter, Garage gym owner and pending first time Pāpā... Jerome Haretuku incredibly humble, yet what accomplishments! Great talk about being an elite Softballer, transitioning into Olympic weightlifting, training regime, nutrition and overcoming self doubt! Absolute good man who has packed a-lot into his life already. Thank you for your time and as always, be safe out there and enjoy.
We continue to be floored with our guests and this chat was no different. One exceptional human being, Paul Tupou-Vea, Director of Clifftop Wellbeing, a passionate Educationalist (Dilworth, AUT Student Recruitment), extensive Community works, health and well-being within organisations, he is doing it all. In this chat we talk about the impact of Covid-19 on education, the effects on students, home schooling, health and well-being for families, effects on Māori & Pasifika Communities and his hopes for the future.
clifftopwellbeing.co.nz
What a massive opportunity it was to chat with Bex Watton about a number of things she works in and believes in. A nurse in Aged Care, Personal Trainer and advocate for Sensory Processing Disorder which her son has. Also a special focus on Covid-19 and the effects, and how to be smart in your own personal care.
In this podcast she talks about her journey. You can't help but be inspired by her and all that she has achieved. What a champ.
An absolute privilege to have on the podcast Jason Goodwin, Husband, Father, Teacher, All-round top man and Chief Iron Officer at his Tinonee Tough House, Australia. A decent yarn around family life, setting up his shed gym, life outside of the city and everything in-between. Looking forward to when we can get together after lockdown and have that jam. Be safe and tune in.
It was an honour to catch up with Davide Milan all the way from Italy, and talk about how life is for him and his family living under the Covid-19 umbrella, his fitness journey and how his own garage gym has grown in the past 5 years.
Awesome to be able to chat and hear from him, very much appreciated Davide - Grazie! Check it out